That Thing You Brew

The Coffee Loft

by Kerry Evelyn

𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙙, 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙮 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙮 𝙋𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙮 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚…

***

Every Denver Edge fan thinks they know the secret behind my goal-scoring streak. The truth is, it’s not the pre-game toffee coffee from the Bevvie Bar that brings me luck—it’s Penny, the shy harp-playing barista who makes it for me.

But my winning streak is threatened when I learn that the coffee shop may be closing and I could lose her forever. On top of that, I’m hit with the news that if I don’t get married, I’ll lose my inheritance.

Can my favorite barista whip up an inheritance-saving recipe before time runs out?

Time isn’t on my side. With the deadline looming, I’ll have to skate fast to earn her affection, and if I mess up, I could lose everything—my inheritance, my career, and most of all, my heart.

***
Hold on to your hockey sticks! That Thing You Brew is a he-falls-first, secret crush, friends-to-marriage inheritance clause romcom with no third-act breakup, laugh-out-loud antics, hockey team shenanigans, and meddling townies. A sweet romcom you won't want to miss!

***

Author’s Note: This book features characters from my Palmer City world. It’s a stand-alone, but if you love the town and characters, be sure to check out my Palmer City Voltage and Brewer Brides books.

***

Welcome to The Coffee Loft, a place where romance is always brewing.

Grab your favorite table over in the corner and be prepared to be swept off your feet! This multi-author collection features some of your favorite sweet romance authors that you already know and love, as well as a few new names you'll be rushing to check out.

From cold brews to cappuccinos and frothy frappes, there's something on the menu for every romantic comedy reader. Fake dates, meddling matchmakers, friends-to-lovers, and so much more; each stand-alone story is the right blend of sweet, guaranteed to warm your heart.

Happily-ever-afters coming right up!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports, Hockey Romance, Sports Romance, Marriage Of Convenience, Clean Romance

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2024

About the author

Get exclusive series-related bonuses and freebies by signing up for my Newsletter: http://www.kerryevelyn.com/links

Kerry's sweet romance novels feature small towns, a touch of the supernatural, and unforgettable charming characters pursuing happily-ever-afters. Fueled on faith, Dunkin’ iced coffee, and a love for people, including her amazing family, Kerry loves (in ever-changing order) books, boy bands, cats, hockey, sweet drinks, taking selfies, traveling, and the madness of getting the stories in her head onto the page. Find out more and sign up for her newsletter at KerryEvelyn.com/links.

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Reviews

[Rachel Luke Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something I have always loved about Kerry Evelyn's books is that she always uses her voice to bring light to causes and those who need to be represented more often in fiction.

I absolutely love that Penny is not only the sweetest human being but that she also has a nervous stutter. I love that throughout the book not only do we get to see her fall in love but also find confidence in who she is. I love that we get to see her lean into Xavier's love for her and conquer her fears in more than one way.

I loved Xavier so much for his tender care of Penny. I love that this relationship starts 3 years previous and so they have a history with each other for the ultimate slow burn.

I love that this one does not have a 3rd act breakup and that we just get to see them be happy and in love.

This book just made me smile, laugh and swoon! It truly just has the best mix of everything!

And if you haven't read Kerry Evelyn's Palmer City Voltage and Brewer Brides series definitely do so! It's so fun to have an interconnected world and see cameos from everyone!

Physical Intimacy Lvl 2 (Longer non descriptive kisses)
Zero Swearing
Dual POV

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Smitten? Yup. Distracted? One hundred percent. Regretful? Zero percent.”

This is my first leap into a Kerry Evelyn book and I was VERY pleasantly surprised. Hello to a new favorite author! I’ve read a few of the Coffee Loft series stories and it’s brilliant the way they are lightly tied together, but also connected to each individual author’s style and characters.

It’s no secret that I’m deep into my hockey romance era and the combination of real protagonists and hockey, swirled up with some lucky toffee coffee, Ieft me completely smitten. Xavier and Penny have a dream exclusive, each with challenges to overcome, but not without a journey full of emotion–I was completely engrossed and invested.

All the tropes, some of which are my very favorites, left me swooning. Home games? Away games? Hockey lingo and teammates? Check. Lucky charms? Attraction? Harp playing? Check again. Fake engagement (or is it)? Kissing practice? Falling in deep? Double and triple check! I couldn’t get enough of this sweet story and I took a “biscuit” to the heart…over and over again.

Content: off-page death of extended family member; speech impediment; kissing!

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

[Lissa Ruck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Xavier & Penny's heartachingly beautiful, sweet, caring, loving, swoony story!!

[Tanvi · Rating 5 out of 5]

How sweet is this book! I love how Kerry brings out the things which should be normal but are looked down on by the society.

I loved both Penny and Xavier, their notes, their mutual feelings and how Xavier helps her through the book and I loved how Penny gains the confidence she couldn't through therapy but through someone who believed in her.

I was also happy to see no miscommunication and no third act breakup, and how both of them grew through the book and were always there for each other.

[Lisa Mandina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is probably going to be my favorite one in the series so far, especially as I do love a good hockey romance! Overall this was a really sweet romance. One thing I really liked is that any drama seemed real. While this was a somewhat fake romance type of story, in that he needed to get married to save the family castle, it also wasn’t fake, because they both were kind of interested in each other to start with, and while it wasn’t an immediately easy thing to come out and tell the other one how they felt or that they loved them when it came to that, they still showed it and didn’t lie just to save face. What I mean by it seeming real is that I feel like the way they behaved wasn’t drama just for a story’s sake. They didn’t go over the top ignore the other one, deny any possible feelings, etc.

And Xavier was a sweetie. The way he got to know Penny and accepted her the way she was with no hesitation. The way he learned what she liked, knew what she was good at, showed up just to see her play her harp, etc. He was what you’d think of as the perfect guy in that way. And Penny was really such a strong woman, working so hard to do what she wanted, and for the most part, didn’t let what other people thought affect her. Except when it came to her stutter. And so that was something she was working on, something that brought her and Xavier together as the story began.

Because all of these stories are sweet romance, this one was too. I’m used to quite a bit steamier when it comes to my hockey romance, but in a way this was nice too. Even if occasionally it was a little too squeaky clean for me. It almost wasn’t even something you could called closed door, as it sounded as if all they did was kiss. Literally. No mention of anything other than kissing, and hugging, and maybe sniffing hair or smelling their shampoo/body products. One mention of a feeling in her stomach that she’d never had before.

Lots of other people in this world, other hockey players on Xavier’s team of course, other friends of Penny’s, etc. A fun world that I could see more fun stories in!

Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Thing You Brew is part of the Coffee Loft series. This is a multi-author series with each book featuring a Coffee Loft shop but being able to be enjoyed as standalones or in any order.

This was such a sweetly unique read! It's no secret by now that I love a good hockey romance, so naturally I was excited for this one and it didn't disappoint. But it did surprise me! Oftentimes with sports star MMC (particularly with hockey), you have these characters that are... well, just what you might think of a star athlete being. Tough. Protective. Charismatic. And yes, Xavier is certainly all of those things too... but he and Penny both just felt like these really unique characters with so many layers to them that I couldn't help but enjoy the two of them. I loved that he's this star hockey player, but he started out ice skating and is a big softie with his sisters. Penny is timid, but loyal... and I love how her love of renfaire plays into their story. There was just something about these two that felt very much unique to them and made reading their story all that more special. There was a lot going on, but it all worked together for a story that had my smiling throughout. This is the first book I had read by this author, but it will not be the last.

That Thing You Brew is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Ameera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a standalone in an amazing The Coffee Loft series. All books in this series are standalones! I’d definitely recommend y’all to check it out!

𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5) / 5
* 𝓝𝓞 𝓢𝓟𝓘𝓒𝓔 *

𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽 𝓯𝓻𝓸𝓶 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴:

🍀 Hockey Romance
🍀 No 3rd Act Breakup
🍀 Marriage to Convenience
🍀 He Falls First
🍀 Sweet RomCom

𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼:

This was my very first book from the author and I’m so glad that I was able to discover her and her books!

This book was the most cutest hockey romance I’ve ever read! I loved Kerry’s sense of humor and how well-written Xavier and Penny’s characters were. I also really enjoyed her writing style- it was so easy to read. I was never lost while reading it.

Xavier is literally the sweetest hockey player MMC that I’ve ever read! I loved how he was so protective and loving towards Penny and always looked after her. Whereas Penny being the kind, shy barista, who also suffered from anxiety.

Xavier and Penny were the perfect couple! They completed each other in so many ways. Their scenes together got me giggling and blushing so much!

I’d highly recommend this book to all the hockey romance lovers out there and people who enjoy reading closed door romance books!

[Tally Fischer · Rating 3 out of 5]

That Thing You Brew was as sweet as the scent of freshly brewed coffee and fresh baked pastries! I loved Penny from the beginning. I thought her having a stutter was a great character trait. I do wish her therapy sessions and her journey to get over her speech issue would have been a little more fleshed out over the book. I loved Xavier’s personality and wholesomeness. I did feel as if he was almost “too good” for a professional hockey player though. I also think that the time line was a bit rushed, even for a “true love at first sight” trope. I was expecting some drama or unexpected twist at some point. I believe the story could have used a bit more intensity. Other than that, That Thing You Brew was a sweet read. I would recommend it.

[Stevie Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so stinking cute. Oh my gosh. Hockey player + coffee barista who he calls his Lucky Penny. Absolutely adorable. The first scene of them together really caught my attention, how he immediately went to help her, no questions asked and the reveal of her stutter when she’s nervous, especially around him. I love that they had met a few times before to establish the background between them, and I love how head over heels he is for her. There is very little to no drama in this one and no third act breakup but the fact they were so cute together showed it really didn’t need it. Kerry’s writing is fantastic and I will for sure check out her other hockey books!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Must Read book!! I loved reading Xavier and Penny's story. It a sweet heartwarming romance that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Patricia Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this cute story about Xavier and penny. Adorable characters and story line. Highly recommend this and laugh out loud moments

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this coffee shop romance! Cute, heartwarming, and fun-to-read.. These characters are so lovable and sweet. I can't wait to read more from this author, and this charming series!

[Koren | the_blue_eyed_bluestocking · Rating 5 out of 5]

"HOCKEY AND THE HARP"

I did things a little backward when I read Kerry's 2nd Coffee Loft story first. 🤭 What I've loved about any of Kerry Evelyn's book that I've read is that they are packed with substance, even if they are a light and fun romcom like That Thing You Brew. (Side note...As a gal who grew up ADORING That Thing You Do with the soundtrack on repeat, the title already gives full nostalgia vibes. ✨️)

This is a fun hockey romance featuring harp-playing Penny and hockey-playing Xavier that features a marriage of convenience and my favorite "he falls first" trope. And no third act breakup lets me really enjoy the story without all the angst. I love Penny's quirkyness and how Xavier helps her overcome some of her fears, especially with her stutter. I adore a story where the characters feel relatable, and in a MoC story, that can be difficult to achieve. Penny and Xavier genuinely care and respect one another, so the transition from admirers to friends to love feels like it could really happen.
I love having a sweet, no spice romance that still hits all those right notes!

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Thing You Brew by Kerry Evelyn Review

That Thing You Brew by Kerry Evelyn is a sweet, feel‑good sports romance set in the cozy, caffeine‑scented world of The Coffee Loft series. It follows Xavier, a star defenseman for the Denver Edge whose pre‑game success he quietly credits to Penny, the shy harp‑playing barista who makes his favorite toffee coffee. Though Penny and Xavier have crossed paths at the coffee shop for years, their interactions have always been limited to friendly nods and warm smiles until life throws an unexpected hurdle at Xavier. He learns that unless he is married by a looming deadline, he will forfeit his inheritance. That twist of fate pushes Xavier and Penny into a “marriage of convenience” situation that neither expected, especially as feelings that were once secret crushes develop into something far sweeter and more personal while they navigate family, town meddling, and hockey team shenanigans together. This romance blends the thrill of sports energy with the comforting intimacy of small‑town connections and daily cups of coffee.

As I settled into this story, I found myself completely charmed by the tender transformation of Xavier and Penny’s relationship. Xavier’s rugged on‑ice persona softens beautifully around Penny, whose gentle strength and quiet depth make her one of the most memorable lead characters I’ve met in a romance this year. I loved how Penny’s experiences with anxiety and her stutter were woven into her romantic journey so honestly and respectfully, and how Xavier’s consistent encouragement helped her find confidence without ever making her feel rushed or small.

The dual points of view allowed me to feel both of their inner worlds, their hopes and fears, and the way their affection grew naturally as trust deepened was heart‑warming. The marriage‑of‑convenience trope here doesn’t feel contrived: both characters enter the arrangement with real emotion and a desire to make something lasting, which gave the story an authentic emotional pulse. Even the lighter moments, like hockey victories linked to Penny’s special brew or community antics around the Bevvie Bar, had me laughing and feeling genuinely invested in their happily‑ever‑after. If you adore wholesome romance with supportive characters, cozy coffee shop scenes, and that satisfying sense of love earned rather than rushed, this book left me smiling long after the final page.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Because the heartfelt growth between Xavier and Penny made this a tender, uplifting romance that warmed my heart.

[Kaci Bonar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read the sequel to this book and knew I needed to go back to the “beginning” to really appreciate it and while this isn’t the first Denver Edge book, it helps to have more context!  This book centers around Xavier and Penny; their love story is the first time I have read a MOC that was centered around an inheritance clause!

Penny is an ordinary Colorado barista, who happens to make a specialty drink that exclusive to one customer and it supposedly has brought him good luck to every home game!  At book start we see her having a bit of a meltdown because she fell short on her side pursuit as a harpist!  With a bit of a pep talk and promise to help more later, Penny composes herself and goes to make the famous drink!  While Penny goes through some emotional highs and lows throughout the book, she is clearly one to cheer for!  She wants to do right by everyone and cares deeply!

Xavier is one of the premiere defensive players for the Denver Edge, but he’s “nothing” without his Toffee Coffee!  This man isn’t a faceless jock, he has depth and layers, he too cares deeply for those around him!  As the story unfolds, Zavey (his nickname) comes to discover that the only way he can inherit the ancestorial family home in Europe is if he can get married by his birthday that is only three months away!  He finds the girl and thus begins a whirlwind romance!

While the pacing of this story may feel fast paced, I loved it!  I felt like I got every question answered, I felt every sad tear, I felt every complete elation with every kiss that the protags shared!  This was wonderful!  The Denver Edge is climbing their way up the ranks as far as fictional hockey teams!  Job well done!

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fun to read!! It’s a sweet Christian romance, well written, with characters you would love to meet in real life! There are plenty of laugh out loud moments mixed in with tender scenes that bring tears to your eyes and a goofy grin to your face. There are a few moments of misunderstanding that are quickly resolved. No major angst, just a delightful story of two people falling in love and bringing out the best in each other! The bonus epilogue is also fun, don’t forget to get it as well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I definitely recommend it!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love Xavier and Penny's story and the realization that they were secretly pining for each other for several years before the circumstances forced them to make a move to more than acquaintances. I like how Xavier sees her and her needs and steps in to offer his help and experience and how he has the ability to help her find confidence and come out of her shell to eventually achieve her dreams. What a fun story!

[Priscila · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the heart eyes! Guys, this is my first time reading a Kerry Evelyn book, and I'm hooked!! Her writing is superb, and I can't even with how adorable Xavier and Penny were!! She nailed this romcom (I was laughing and swooning along the way), and now I wanna check out all her other books (especially the hockey ones.) Seriously, if you're in your hockey romance era, and you haven't checked her out yet, you're missing out! I've been following her for a while now, and she's the cutest fan of the sport I've ever seen (if you wanna know what I'm talking about, follow her on social media or join her FB group. You won't regret it!) But back to the story, the characters were so real, I not only loved getting to know both Zavey Boy and Lucky Penny, but also their families and friends. They all felt pretty real, and her descriptions were so good I could see it all happening (and that only happens to me with a handful of authors, so #skills 🙌). The small-town feeling was everything I was craving at the moment, and now I really wanna know what's going to happen with Tasha (Penny's sister) as well as check out other characters' books (especially Xavier's teammates.) Just as a heads up, this book is not only a "feel good/fluffy" kind of read (though there's some of that), but it also deals with some sensitive topics in the best ways (like the loss of a close relative and someone dealing with a speech issue/nervous stutter.) For real, you get to see the author's heart on these matters, and it all made for a heartwarming read. There are hugs, grand gestures (he's a pro hockey player), there are talks about luck (the only thing that I'm usually not a fan of, but I'm letting it slide this time), there's music, there are sweet, passionate kisses (but nothing farther), and I can't recommend this enough! So, go grab your copy, and become a fan of this team (and this author 😉). Oh, and be sure you grab that bonus epilogue! #worthit! ~ 5 stars!

I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this sweet story. The characters are lovely and the romance is so tender and supportive. Hockey player Xavier performed his best when he got his speciality coffee from shy barista Penny before games. After a few years of this habit, and being interested in each other but barely interacting, change threatened when the coffee shop was sold to new owners. Xavier also discovered that he needed to marry in order to preserve his inheritance of a family legacy. These events led to more interaction and an agreement to marry. I really liked how this wasn’t just the typical agree to a marriage of convenience story. Xavier and Penny went into the arrangement with the intention of working toward a real and loving marriage, rather than it happening by accident. There wasn’t so much emphasis on things being “fake”. It was also so nice to see such sweet support and genuine kindness and affection between two good people. I enjoyed seeing how Penny especially blossomed and grew in confidence under Xavier’s care and attention. “Penny was more than the source of my luck. She was my everything.” And of course Penny’s support lifted Xavier too. “I thought of Penny…how she challenged me to be my best in the kindest and most encouraging ways.” The hockey parts of the story were fun. Not too much for romance readers. The story was pretty low-angst and really just the sweet and gradual development of love between two people who had been putting it off. “‘Time lost is unintentional. Time wasted is when you intentionally pass the time with things that do not matter.’” Their journey together made for a lovely read. This book is connected to other books by the author and is also part of a multi-author series connected loosely by the coffee shop chain. Each book in the series reads as a standalone, but there is some carryover from the author’s other books. This is a closed door story with no harsh language.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Moni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is book 12 in The Coffee Loft Series, which is a multi-author collab series, but can be read as a complete standalone. The book also contains appearances of characters from the author's Palmer City Voltage Series and Brewer Brides Books but you can read this one as a standalone. The book's blurb is straightforward. That Thing You Brew is told through Penny and Xavier's pov and is a sweet hockey romance.

As the barista who makes his special coffee on game days, Penny and Xavier share a special bond. Though they haven't had long conversations, they've always felt drawn to each other and have considered the other a friend. That's why it's easy for Penny to agree to a marriage of convenience with him to help him keep his inheritance. While Xavier isn't sure it's a good idea, Penny's determination, his feelings for her, and his want to help her makes him agree with her decision. As they enter their marriage, they both have to decide if a real relationship is something they're both willing to make work.

Though their romance was almost insta love, I liked how their friendship became even stronger once they decided to get married. They both genuinely cared for each other and wanted the best for each other. Penny's stuttering made her nervous about being in the spotlight yet her desire to help Xavier was stronger. I liked how she was brave and trusted him. Xavier was protective towards her and I liked how he was honest with her and didn't want to push her too far out of her comfort zone. They were so sweet together and I liked seeing their feelings grow. Their romance was a clean one consisting of sweet kisses and no foul language was used. Besides the romance, the author knows her hockey and makes it simple for others to understand too. I liked the dynamics of the team and seeing some of Xavier's teammates. Though I still have many books of the author's to read, this is my favorite that I've read so far. Fans of hers will be happy with this book and new readers will want to read more of her books.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have found that I cannot go wrong with the books in The Coffee Loft series. Each installment is a unique story which showcases each author's type of romance. This one was especially fun to read. The two main characters are a pro hockey player, Xavier, and a barista, Penny. I fell in love with both of these characters almost immediately.

Xavier Schwann has to have his lucky drink made by his favorite barista before his games. The drink is toffee coffee and was made especially by Penny, or as Xavier likes to call her - his lucky Penny.

Penny Palmer is a sweet, down-to-earth young woman who is a talented harpist when she is not playing the role of barista. She is very timid and when she gets nervous she has a stutter. This has caused problems for her when she auditions for orchestras. Xavier also makes her nervous because she is secretly crushing on him.

Xavier has just learned that he has to get married in order to receive his grandfather's inheritance. Penny is a mystery to him, but he feels as if he knows her well after 3 years of serving him his lucky beverage. I loved watching these characters grow in the story.

This was an incredibly sweet romance with characters you will love. Xavier was so romantic, kind and thoughtful. Since he was a hockey player, I was expecting a big gruff man. He was a big man, but he was a teddy bear as well. I just wanted to squeeze Penny. Her issues with public speaking were real and caused problems for her all throughout her childhood. Although I am not a hockey fan, I enjoyed the camaraderie of the players and their families with one another. I am sharing this because you do not have to be a sports fan to enjoy this charming romance.

Thank you to the author and BookSirens for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Red Panda Reads]

Is Palmer City, Colorado where the Volts play? (yes) And are they a minor league hockey team? (yes) Does Xavier play for them? (no) He mentioned years in the minors and now a new opportunity? The Denver Edge, an NHL team, was also mentioned. As was the Norris Trophy, awarded to the best defenseman in the NHL. So Xavier is in Palmer City, but Penny wrote about the trophy on his coffee cup once. So which team does he play for? (Edge) 29 pages in before it was clear.

While I enjoy their budding relationship, I hate the circumstance that brings Xavier and Penny together and the irrelevant add on scenes, like with the bunny, that are frivolous. I find that it really takes away from their story and muddles their relationship. I wish the author had chosen a different reason and path for them, rather than something unnecessary and ridiculous. And to say that he will lose his inheritance, implies money, which, in this case, is inaccurate not to mention that it may be a turn off to potential readers to imply that a professional athlete will go to extreme circumstances to access more money.

Page 64: 48 - 16 = 32, not 22.
And needing an action taken by one's next birthday is not the same as said action taken in the next (22) hours (unless one's birthday is the following day).

Page 71: "...they didn't have to know. Or even come..." This should be the other way around- they didn't have to come or even know.

Page 78: "about an hour south of Munich...not far from the Austrian border." Then in the next paragraph- "We'd wondered west all the way into Germany!" But they were already in Germany. Too many subtle mistakes.

Page 208: "Do I need to call an ambo?" Does this character realize there is no 'o' in ambulance?

A breezy read, without too many obstacles, though I could do without all the renaissance jargon and attire. Lastly, did the Edge win the cup? I don't know. It's not clear. There is talk of playoff games and a formidable opponent next season, but the author does not actually mention how their season ended.

[Lilly Guirguis · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

Kerry is the best!

Read if you love;
Anxious FMC x kind MMC
Protective MMC
Coffee
Renaissance fun facts.
Musician
Hockey romance
Canadian culture
Princess Bride and Tangled references
Cute bunny! 🐰
Marriage of convenience trope!
Best quotes?

So many; but here are four! I loved! Yes! FOUR!
“Xavier held on to me as I tripped on my skirt. I wanted to laugh and cry and cheer and—all the things. But most of all I wanted to dance with Xavier.”

“Your birthday, us, your Gordie Howe hat trick? Pick one or all three. Brenna said the function room at Brewski’s is available. And maybe we can stop at home first to pick up our wedding rings?” I lifted my hands and made a show of transferring the emerald from my right ring finger to the left.
He grinned. “Definitely. Gordie Howe, huh? A goal, an assist, and a fight. I love it when you talk hockey to me.”
I booped him on the nose. “Noted.”
He brushed a tendril off my cheek and leaned in for a birthday kiss-to-remember.”
“BE MINE, ALL IN, and HAT TRICK.
Challenge accepted.
Twelve more days, and we’d be living together. I couldn’t wait to have her by my side and in my life as much as possible.
Both Dad and Penny had opined about wasted time, and they were right. You never got it back.
Three years was long enough to languish.
It was time to thrive.
Together.
As I celebrated my third goal with my linemates at the final horn of the game, hats raining down on us, I thought of Penny first, how she challenged me to be my best in the kindest and most encouraging ways.
Penny was more than the source of my luck.
She was my everything.”

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story about two people who like each other a lot secretly but are shy to let their feelings be known until something happens that shakes up their comfort zones and puts them into a collision course to love!

Xavier is a up and coming hockey star who likes a certain barista named Penny. She is shy and doesn’t say much but he loves to hear her play her harp and when she makes his favorite coffee before his home games, they always win. He considers her his “Lucky Penny”.

When his grandfather passed away, a lawyer knocks on his door and informs him he is the heir to his grandfather’s estate but there is a stipulation that he has to be married before his next birthday or he forfeits the estate. Penny overhears the conversation and volunteers to marry him so he won’t lose his inheritance.

Thus begins a planned fake marriage but it doesn’t take long for the feelings and idea to be real. As the day gets closer the anticipation grows stronger and both families find a connection with each other as well to make their feelings the real deal!

Xavier helps Penny with a couple of problems she’s fought her whole life and helps her overcome them and her presence grounds him in his playing hockey.

I loved this story where two people’s feelings are forced to the surface because of what happened but that incident is the catalyst to their happily ever after!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book as one I know you’ll also love as much as I did!

Kerry writes believable stories with no spice which readers will throughly enjoy! I urge you to get and read this book and if you’re like me you’ll want to read the next one in this series entitled Pumpkin Spice,Spice Baby which I am going to read next!

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a charming addition to The Coffee Loft series! This is my first time reading something by this author, and it will most definitely not be my last. I'm not one for hockey romances or sports romances in general, but this book has definitely made me see the genre in a new light. Penny is such a sweet character with characteristics that make her real and relatable, and Xavier was the ultimate hero, with his caring and loving nature. Their story was so heartwarming and beautiful. They had their challenges to overcome, but the journey that lead them to their happily ever after was filled with layers of emotion, strength, good humor, and a sweet romance. I don't think I have ever swooned as much with another story! The story was well-written and pulled me in from the very first page and kept my interest till the end. I was absolutely glued, anxiously turning the pages to see what happens next. Filled with sweetness and good humor, this heartwarming story will melt your heart and leave you with a big smile on your face. If you're looking for a clean and sweet, feel-good story to settle down with on a lazy afternoon, then you don't want to pass this one up! Definitely would recommend this!

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Sharlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was drawn into this book pretty quickly once I realized it was a modern day take on a marriage of convenience! I can’t remember ever reading a contemporary version of this trope before. It was fun, cute, and I really enjoyed the characters.

Penny is so endearing with her sweet personality and her struggle with her stuttering. Xavier is even more so in his desire to help her overcome it. Their connection was instant even thought it took years for them to actually talk!

I love their loyalty to one another even after barely knowing each other. I love their love and loyalty they have with their families. And so much more.

I would have loved to see just a little bit more grit involved. But also sometimes you just need a light hearted romance.

Also a lot of the story involves around the superstition of Xavier and his coffee routine before games. Personally superstitions drive me absolutely nuts. But the book was well written enough that it didn’t bug me too much. Just a few times near the end I was over it. But food for thought if you’re like me you should still give the book a chance!

Plot: 4 stars
Character development: 4.5 stars
Romance: 4.5 stars
Writing style: 5 stars
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Trigger warnings: Speech impediment. Mild family strife. Romance, just kissing, closed door romance.

[Andrea Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST READ!!

Kerry Evelyn's done it AGAIN! That Thing You Brew is the twelfth release in the totally hot, multi-author The Coffee Loft Series. Each is standalone which are connected by their being set in a Coffee Loft franchise. Some, like Kerry's, are related to one or more of the authors' books/series.

This sweet rom-com is packed with all the ingredients required for a five star experience. Starting as secret crushes and admirers, they quickly become dear friends and devoted spouses.

Xavier and Penny are two beautiful people whom I have been hoping to see featured since the first cup of toffee coffee! Xavier is an all-star hockey prankster, Penny is a harp strumming coffee barista and together they are the Baron and Baroness von Schwann.

With no third-act break-up but plenty of REAL adversity that comes naturally to REAL people, this book - like all of Kerry's books, will touch your heart in unexpected ways.

There were so many times I laughed out loud, I even snorted a few times!! There is a bunny and a castle and RYLEIGH!!

There are SO MANY characters I was SO EXCITED to see again! If you're like me and you love all the connections and community, I highly recommend Kerry's Palmer City Voltage and Brewer Brides series.

Kerry Evelyn is one of my all-time FAVORITE authors. I have read EVERYTHING she's written, and loved the MILLIONS OF WORDS! If you are looking for a new, sweet and wholesome writer, I would highly suggest you pick up Kerry's latest book, THAT THING YOU BREW!

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, I've found a new to me author and I absolutely loved reading her book! I laughed and swooned and sighed. These characters pulled me in completely and I was fully invested in their story. A somewhat superstitious hockey player meets a darling, sweet, harp playing barista who has a stutter.

Seriously Xavier was the best! I loved watching him every scene he was in with Penny. He was completely smitten and was so good to her. I loved how he showed her in everything he did that she mattered to him and he cared about her. That her shortcomings were part of her and that he loved every part of her.

I loved seeing them in their courtship and coming to know each other more. Their support and confidence in each other was perfect. I loved that there was no third act break-up and that we as readers just get to read more about their sweet relationship and them working together to make everything get better and strengthen them. Love that sooooo much!!!

And the wedding... Happy Sigh!!!

Seriously, you're going to love it!!!

Content: Clean. Some kissing. The couple gets married. There are some mild innuendos but nothing more than that and some kisses.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Hilma · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙙, 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙮 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙮 𝙋𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙮 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚.

This is the plot of That Thing You Brew by Kerry Evelyn and this book was such a joy to read. It is a sweet and cute hockey romance. Xavier is not your typical hockey player: yes, he is tough on the ice, but has a soft heart and that was such endearing. I loved how he needed his Coffee Toffee “charm”.
Barista Penny is an unusual but wonderful character, she is shy and does not talk much, but she and Xavier have a great chemistry. Their relationship is just so sweet and adorable.

The writing style is great, flowing and the book is easy to read. Thanks to the dual POV it kept me interested. And because Penny is somewhat different, this story was kind of unique.

That Thing You Brew is a standalone book in the great and cozy romance Coffee Loft series and each book is a standalone. I can recommend all books in this series. That Thing You Brew has an unique and swoony couple and one I adored. So go start reading this book and all the other books in this series.

[Lori Wilen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this 5 star read and must thank Kerry Evelyn for providing me with an ARC. I really enjoy Kerry's hockey books but this one had a magic to it that made it different to me. I absolutely loved the main characters, Xavier and Penny. I know we had met them in other books about the Edge so it was wonderful that they got a book for their story. I laughed, I cried, I screamed out loud and I whispered to myself. The writing was exemplary as always. Kerry's words paint pictures that take the reader right into the scene. Her conversations are so well written that I find myself believing I am there and often talk to the pages, Sometimes I wish they could hear me. All in all a wonderful read and if you are a Kerry fan you know exactly what I mean. If you are new to this author this book while not the first in the series is a great book that can be read as stand alone. I am going to bet that once you have read this you will be reading more and more of this extremely talented author.