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The Abandoned Brothers #1
I Got You
Sacrifice…is there any too great? How far would you go to protect the innocent?
Maggie is living from one day to the next and making things up as she goes. Her life is four kids and a whole lot of chaos, but the best kind. Two years ago, she gave up her dreams, and after a devastating loss, she may have to give up one more. With four kids depending on her and not a chance she’ll let them down, she’s about to learn just exactly how far she’ll go to keep them safe.
Shane just lost the only thing he’s ever loved – the only thing he was good at – the only thing he’s ever wanted. After a career-ending injury upends his life, he’s forced into a coaching career he’s not even sure he wants. Just weeks into his new position, he finds himself tugged back to a time he’d prefer to never revisit. Now, Shane’s left with a decision that could change everything. It’s the one thing he told himself he would never do.
I Got You is a touching love story that reminds us that when everything else fades…love stays.
This is a closed-door contemporary romance that still offers plenty of spice.
Maggie is living from one day to the next and making things up as she goes. Her life is four kids and a whole lot of chaos, but the best kind. Two years ago, she gave up her dreams, and after a devastating loss, she may have to give up one more. With four kids depending on her and not a chance she’ll let them down, she’s about to learn just exactly how far she’ll go to keep them safe.
Shane just lost the only thing he’s ever loved – the only thing he was good at – the only thing he’s ever wanted. After a career-ending injury upends his life, he’s forced into a coaching career he’s not even sure he wants. Just weeks into his new position, he finds himself tugged back to a time he’d prefer to never revisit. Now, Shane’s left with a decision that could change everything. It’s the one thing he told himself he would never do.
I Got You is a touching love story that reminds us that when everything else fades…love stays.
This is a closed-door contemporary romance that still offers plenty of spice.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2023
1096 people are currently reading
4942 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Williams
4 books229 followersStacy Williams lives with her husband and children in Illinois. She writes in five-minute increments between homeschooling and extracurricular activities. She’s spent years dreaming about writing love stories that in a worn and broken world, remind us of what we're truly made for.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 375 reviews
January 4, 2025
if ‘The Wall of Winnipeg and Me’ & ‘Wait For It’ by Mariana Zapata had a child it would be this perfection ❤️🩹
June 17, 2024
4.5 stars.
I really love this marriage of convenience story.
It reminded me a lot of my favorite, Wall of Winnipeg and Me, except we get the guy's POV and understand how broken and clueless he is.
Shane was a foster kid and when he learns that Maggie is looking to marry to keep her kid siblings, he offers because he wants to protect them.
I loved how they get to know each other and value each other.
I wasn't a big fan of the conflict where he's not all in and they don't leave room for having a real relationship grow, but it wasn't enough to bring it down a full star. He also is a bit clueless and wasn't there for Maggie as much as I would like but I loved how he bonded with the kids, especially her 4-year old sister. There's something about a guy who is willing to play princess with a little girl that just gets me!
Safety deets
- kisses only and then fade to black
- no other people drama tho both have other people hit on them
- neither has a lot of experience dating others
- mentions of abusive behavior towards them in the past
- we see them in their HEA
- both need mental health support. She mentions getting therapy in the past but it not being effective. I would like them both to try to seek it out again
I really love this marriage of convenience story.
It reminded me a lot of my favorite, Wall of Winnipeg and Me, except we get the guy's POV and understand how broken and clueless he is.
Shane was a foster kid and when he learns that Maggie is looking to marry to keep her kid siblings, he offers because he wants to protect them.
I loved how they get to know each other and value each other.
I wasn't a big fan of the conflict where he's not all in and they don't leave room for having a real relationship grow, but it wasn't enough to bring it down a full star. He also is a bit clueless and wasn't there for Maggie as much as I would like but I loved how he bonded with the kids, especially her 4-year old sister. There's something about a guy who is willing to play princess with a little girl that just gets me!
Safety deets
- kisses only and then fade to black
- no other people drama tho both have other people hit on them
- neither has a lot of experience dating others
- mentions of abusive behavior towards them in the past
- we see them in their HEA
- both need mental health support. She mentions getting therapy in the past but it not being effective. I would like them both to try to seek it out again
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 6, 2025
I Got You is book one in The Abandoned Brothers series by Stacy Williams. This is my first book by this author. This is a sweet, touching football romance that made my eyes water. Happy tears I assure you.
Maggie Matthews is twenty five years old. Maggie thought she knew what her life was going to look like. But fate had different plans. She is back home, caring for her four young siblings while working as a dance teacher at the local college. Her life is chaos and she’s barely holding on. But she knows she doesn’t want to be anywhere else. When their family is threatened, it’s a grumpy ex-football player that comes to her rescue.
Shane Carter was a talented professional football player whose face was well known. A career ending injury ended his career way before he was ready. His agent pushes him into taking a job as the defensive coach for Colorado State University’s football team. Shane doesn’t even know if he wants to coach, let alone if he’d be any good at it. But, what else is he going to do?
A case of mistaken identity brings these two face to face. It was kind of a meet cute although I don’t think either of them would agree. When Shane learns of Maggie’s situation, at what she is facing, at the possibility of what she could lose, he can’t help but to want to help her. But, doing so will put him into a situation he never in a million years thought he’d be in.
“Her bright smile and laughter make everything lighter, like sunshine after a storm. She has no idea how beautiful she is.”
Maggie, who had no idea what she was doing, was amazing with the kids. She just seemed to radiate light and love. And maybe it’s that light that drew Shane to her since he had never experienced it before. He grew up in the system, never really knowing love or family. These two gave each other the support they needed. Slowly those protective walls came down.
“Maggie says families are like wolves. The pack sticks together. So, I guess you’re stuck with us.”
This book was wonderful from start to finish. I loved both Maggie and Shane’s relationship with the kids and loved seeing the way their own relationship developed. It’s a wonderful, feel good story that warmed my heart.
“She’s as bright as the sun, and I’d follow her anywhere.”
Maggie Matthews is twenty five years old. Maggie thought she knew what her life was going to look like. But fate had different plans. She is back home, caring for her four young siblings while working as a dance teacher at the local college. Her life is chaos and she’s barely holding on. But she knows she doesn’t want to be anywhere else. When their family is threatened, it’s a grumpy ex-football player that comes to her rescue.
Shane Carter was a talented professional football player whose face was well known. A career ending injury ended his career way before he was ready. His agent pushes him into taking a job as the defensive coach for Colorado State University’s football team. Shane doesn’t even know if he wants to coach, let alone if he’d be any good at it. But, what else is he going to do?
A case of mistaken identity brings these two face to face. It was kind of a meet cute although I don’t think either of them would agree. When Shane learns of Maggie’s situation, at what she is facing, at the possibility of what she could lose, he can’t help but to want to help her. But, doing so will put him into a situation he never in a million years thought he’d be in.
“Her bright smile and laughter make everything lighter, like sunshine after a storm. She has no idea how beautiful she is.”
Maggie, who had no idea what she was doing, was amazing with the kids. She just seemed to radiate light and love. And maybe it’s that light that drew Shane to her since he had never experienced it before. He grew up in the system, never really knowing love or family. These two gave each other the support they needed. Slowly those protective walls came down.
“Maggie says families are like wolves. The pack sticks together. So, I guess you’re stuck with us.”
This book was wonderful from start to finish. I loved both Maggie and Shane’s relationship with the kids and loved seeing the way their own relationship developed. It’s a wonderful, feel good story that warmed my heart.
“She’s as bright as the sun, and I’d follow her anywhere.”
March 26, 2025
This could have easily become my next 5 star all-time favourite read if it wasn't so goodamn repetitive.
Up until about 50%, I was absolutely loving the book. Our MMC, Shane, meets our FMC, Maggie, and they have a bit of an unfriendly encounter. When Shane goes to apologise, Maggie receives the news that her terminally ill dad is dying, and he helps her get to the hospital. He overhears her talking about the custody struggle she's going to endure because she has 4 younger siblings that she's been taking care of since her father began deteriorating about 2 years ago. Unfortunately, her uncle is a scumbag and will contest custody out of some jealous rivalry with her now deceased father. Shane currently is the coach of her other brother, Cole, who plays college football and decides to offer marriage, albeit out of the blue, seeing as they've only just met.
It was really cute. The way Shane became part of the family. The youngest sibling, Liv, became particularly attached. One of the brothers has this thing with pranks, and Maggie only loves to encourage his playful behaviour. She's truly a wonderful mother. The entire siblings' interaction is one of my favourite things about this book.
Now here's where my issues come in, and I'm sorry it is about to become super rant-ish.
Shane was abandoned by his mother at like 5 years old. He has mommy issues to this day. He does not form relationships easily, is not a people person, and cannot comprehend emotions, especially love, since he was in foster care. Yet he has 2 foster brothers, who also played football, and he still has a relationship with them even after his football career ended after a leg injury. These issues are the only reason he "cannot give Maggie what she wants." Respectifully sir, please go to therapy. It was fine, listening to his inner monologues about how much he began to care for this family and Maggie, yet he had to stay away because he couldn't give her what she wanted. It really was okay, if it wasn't for the entirety of the goddamn book. I got so sick and tired of hearing about it because I could tell it was just him trying to justify his poor behaviour. I felt like he was stringing Maggie along and they weren't even having sex!
And if we're gonna compare trauma, which normally I do not, but seeing as this is fiction, I will. Maggie has suffered so much more and yet is more emotionally present. She watched her mother die at a young age, came back after her father was sick and took care of her siblings, watched her father die... She was a dancer and went to Julliard like her mother wanted when she was 16ish, and the summer prior to that, went to live with the crazy uncle because she was so depressed and wanted a change of scenery. The uncle/aunt had been drugging her to keep her compliant and entered her in debutant balls and pagents. She got drunk and ended up having sex with a friend who "was not gentle" and then got locked in her room by her aunt when caught, whilst she was in pain, and stayed locked out until a while later so she could call her dad for help. This was the only time she had sex. She goes to Juilliard and meets Danny, who she assumes is her boyfriend but he ends up sleeping with someone else the night she gets a big audition, she goes to tell him and catches him, runs away, breaks her ankle when she falls down the stairs and ends her ballet career right there.
I'm sorry, and yet Maggie is the one who was jumping in head first falling in love with Shane? She goes through all that and still has love to give and Shane can't because his mother abandoned him at 5 years old??
Shane began annoying post the 50% mark. There was context that he was never really interested in women, which is so refreshing seeing as you never get men in sports romances who aren't whoring around with their fans. Until I read the part where he just had to mention that he did stupid things when he was younger. I did not need that there goddamn it cause it ruined my entire perception of him.
He last minute ditches Maggie for her friends wedding, which she was really upset about, but there was no grovelling?? Like she was really traumatised by it, she hates wearing fancy clothes cause it makes her skin crawl and reminds her of her time with her aunt and uncle. She wanted him there and yet he bailed. 2 people told him off for leaving her and he started to panic when she came back and gave him the cold shoulder but then nothing happened after that?! They were just fine the next day and he didn't need to work for anything?!
The next time he fucks up is when he gets a job offer elsewhere and it will likely be on the night that Maggie is performing her last and final show. He doesn't talk to her about it, doesn't tell her anything. She finds out through someone else and is pissed, understandably. He doesn't ask for her opinions, he doesn't care to have her involved in his life choices, he doesn't include her in anything that could impact both their lives. He just acts like he doesn't fucking care about her inputs and ideas. Yet instead of, oh idk grovelling, Maggie is the one who tells him she's got him! She says everything will stay the same, she's not leaving him but if he can't give the little parts of him, she's not going to want that for the long term. He gets irritated at this, literally saying "but you said nothing will change". Bitch, how selfish are you?!?! You're just going to take all the love she has to offer but give her nothing in return?!? You're entertaining a job away from her, and she tells you to go for it because she cares about your life, and yet you don't think to reject the offer because you know you don't wanna leave? You almost don't go to her dance show until your friend had to literally spell it out for you? Oh I really started to hate Shane at this point, you are a grown fucking man!!! Why does someone have to tell you that you're in love!?!?!
He manages to go to the show, they talk about sex and end up decided no protection is fine. Maggie hasn't had sex since she was like 15 post that traumatic event. Although nothing was said from Shane about his past, his previous comment about being stupid when he was younger ruined it for me. She ends up pregnant a few weeks later.. 😒
Maggie put in all the effort in their relationship and he gave nothing, let's be honest. I was so excited to read this because it was compared to The Wall of Winnipeg and Me and Wait for It by Mariana Zapata and I loved those books. But Shane was so unforgivably selfish.
Apologies for the rant, I'm just sad this was completely ruined by the second half.
Up until about 50%, I was absolutely loving the book. Our MMC, Shane, meets our FMC, Maggie, and they have a bit of an unfriendly encounter. When Shane goes to apologise, Maggie receives the news that her terminally ill dad is dying, and he helps her get to the hospital. He overhears her talking about the custody struggle she's going to endure because she has 4 younger siblings that she's been taking care of since her father began deteriorating about 2 years ago. Unfortunately, her uncle is a scumbag and will contest custody out of some jealous rivalry with her now deceased father. Shane currently is the coach of her other brother, Cole, who plays college football and decides to offer marriage, albeit out of the blue, seeing as they've only just met.
It was really cute. The way Shane became part of the family. The youngest sibling, Liv, became particularly attached. One of the brothers has this thing with pranks, and Maggie only loves to encourage his playful behaviour. She's truly a wonderful mother. The entire siblings' interaction is one of my favourite things about this book.
Now here's where my issues come in, and I'm sorry it is about to become super rant-ish.
Shane was abandoned by his mother at like 5 years old. He has mommy issues to this day. He does not form relationships easily, is not a people person, and cannot comprehend emotions, especially love, since he was in foster care. Yet he has 2 foster brothers, who also played football, and he still has a relationship with them even after his football career ended after a leg injury. These issues are the only reason he "cannot give Maggie what she wants." Respectifully sir, please go to therapy. It was fine, listening to his inner monologues about how much he began to care for this family and Maggie, yet he had to stay away because he couldn't give her what she wanted. It really was okay, if it wasn't for the entirety of the goddamn book. I got so sick and tired of hearing about it because I could tell it was just him trying to justify his poor behaviour. I felt like he was stringing Maggie along and they weren't even having sex!
And if we're gonna compare trauma, which normally I do not, but seeing as this is fiction, I will. Maggie has suffered so much more and yet is more emotionally present. She watched her mother die at a young age, came back after her father was sick and took care of her siblings, watched her father die... She was a dancer and went to Julliard like her mother wanted when she was 16ish, and the summer prior to that, went to live with the crazy uncle because she was so depressed and wanted a change of scenery. The uncle/aunt had been drugging her to keep her compliant and entered her in debutant balls and pagents. She got drunk and ended up having sex with a friend who "was not gentle" and then got locked in her room by her aunt when caught, whilst she was in pain, and stayed locked out until a while later so she could call her dad for help. This was the only time she had sex. She goes to Juilliard and meets Danny, who she assumes is her boyfriend but he ends up sleeping with someone else the night she gets a big audition, she goes to tell him and catches him, runs away, breaks her ankle when she falls down the stairs and ends her ballet career right there.
I'm sorry, and yet Maggie is the one who was jumping in head first falling in love with Shane? She goes through all that and still has love to give and Shane can't because his mother abandoned him at 5 years old??
Shane began annoying post the 50% mark. There was context that he was never really interested in women, which is so refreshing seeing as you never get men in sports romances who aren't whoring around with their fans. Until I read the part where he just had to mention that he did stupid things when he was younger. I did not need that there goddamn it cause it ruined my entire perception of him.
He last minute ditches Maggie for her friends wedding, which she was really upset about, but there was no grovelling?? Like she was really traumatised by it, she hates wearing fancy clothes cause it makes her skin crawl and reminds her of her time with her aunt and uncle. She wanted him there and yet he bailed. 2 people told him off for leaving her and he started to panic when she came back and gave him the cold shoulder but then nothing happened after that?! They were just fine the next day and he didn't need to work for anything?!
The next time he fucks up is when he gets a job offer elsewhere and it will likely be on the night that Maggie is performing her last and final show. He doesn't talk to her about it, doesn't tell her anything. She finds out through someone else and is pissed, understandably. He doesn't ask for her opinions, he doesn't care to have her involved in his life choices, he doesn't include her in anything that could impact both their lives. He just acts like he doesn't fucking care about her inputs and ideas. Yet instead of, oh idk grovelling, Maggie is the one who tells him she's got him! She says everything will stay the same, she's not leaving him but if he can't give the little parts of him, she's not going to want that for the long term. He gets irritated at this, literally saying "but you said nothing will change". Bitch, how selfish are you?!?! You're just going to take all the love she has to offer but give her nothing in return?!? You're entertaining a job away from her, and she tells you to go for it because she cares about your life, and yet you don't think to reject the offer because you know you don't wanna leave? You almost don't go to her dance show until your friend had to literally spell it out for you? Oh I really started to hate Shane at this point, you are a grown fucking man!!! Why does someone have to tell you that you're in love!?!?!
He manages to go to the show, they talk about sex and end up decided no protection is fine. Maggie hasn't had sex since she was like 15 post that traumatic event. Although nothing was said from Shane about his past, his previous comment about being stupid when he was younger ruined it for me. She ends up pregnant a few weeks later.. 😒
Maggie put in all the effort in their relationship and he gave nothing, let's be honest. I was so excited to read this because it was compared to The Wall of Winnipeg and Me and Wait for It by Mariana Zapata and I loved those books. But Shane was so unforgivably selfish.
Apologies for the rant, I'm just sad this was completely ruined by the second half.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
I Got You by Stacy Williams is a touching, emotionally rich contemporary sports romance about Maggie, a vibrant single guardian who, after a devastating loss gave up her own dreams to raise her four younger siblings, and Shane, a once‑promising athlete whose career ends with a painful injury and who steps into coaching with a quiet reluctance, only to find himself drawn into Maggie’s chaotic, loving world in ways neither expected, especially when they enter into a marriage of convenience that gently opens their hearts to love, healing and family in new and unexpected ways.
From the moment I met Maggie, I felt the beautiful chaos of her life, juggling kids, heartbreak and hope with a bravery that made me both smile and ache for her at the same time. Her determination to protect and nurture her siblings grounded every scene in emotional reality, and Shane’s gruff exterior paired with his quietly tender growth created a slow‑burn connection that felt both honest and deeply earned.
I was moved by how this story didn’t shy away from pain or vulnerability, especially as both characters wrestle with past losses and fears of letting love in again, making their gradual trust and affection feel meaningful rather than easy. The found family dynamic around them, especially with Maggie’s siblings and Shane’s circle, added a warm, grounding layer that made me laugh, cry and root for every step forward.
While at times the pacing asked for patience as their romance unfolded gently, the payoff in emotional resonance was worth it. I’m giving I Got You 4 out of 5 stars because it made me feel deeply rooted in love, resilience and hope in a way that lingered long after the last page.
From the moment I met Maggie, I felt the beautiful chaos of her life, juggling kids, heartbreak and hope with a bravery that made me both smile and ache for her at the same time. Her determination to protect and nurture her siblings grounded every scene in emotional reality, and Shane’s gruff exterior paired with his quietly tender growth created a slow‑burn connection that felt both honest and deeply earned.
I was moved by how this story didn’t shy away from pain or vulnerability, especially as both characters wrestle with past losses and fears of letting love in again, making their gradual trust and affection feel meaningful rather than easy. The found family dynamic around them, especially with Maggie’s siblings and Shane’s circle, added a warm, grounding layer that made me laugh, cry and root for every step forward.
While at times the pacing asked for patience as their romance unfolded gently, the payoff in emotional resonance was worth it. I’m giving I Got You 4 out of 5 stars because it made me feel deeply rooted in love, resilience and hope in a way that lingered long after the last page.
December 28, 2023
infinite stars
♡ 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙨 ♡
•family football games
•found family
•brothers from abandoning mothers
•family pranks — “you guys suck. i think i peed myself.”
•text banter
•he reads to her 🥹
•shane and liv’s morning routine
•bingo
•”i got you”
•the pants
•shane’s tshirts
•good communication
•the nicknames
•the mouse prank ��
this book is the reason i love bookstagram. i would have likely never found stacy’s book otherwise. i am so grateful that she took a chance on me to read an advanced copy of her book baby because it’s now one of my favorite books of all time. i will happily read anything stacy writes.
it’s so hard to review this book without spoiling it because there is a trope that this story is centered around which isn’t revealed in the synopsis. it’s best to read this book and undercover the treasure for yourself. what i will say is that this book swept me away with its words and made me feel EVERYTHING. there is so much feel good goodness in this book that i don’t even know where to begin. the absolutely beautiful progression of maggie and shane’s relationship. maggie’s family dynamics and her relationship with her siblings. shane’s brothers. shane’s and maggie’s backstories. SO. MUCH. MORE.
stacy williams is an expert storyteller. the way she slowly reveals this story was masterful and had me eagerly turning the pages. i laughed. i cried. i swooned. i bit my fist. i kicked the sheets. i rolled around my bed like a giddy school girl. i screamed. this story unhinged me in the best way. it’s is filled with so much heart and emotion. the epilogue was chef’s kiss and left me in tears. i just want to start it all over again. i’m completely blown away by the fact that this is stacy’s debut. it’s simply an amazing story that i just want to devour again and again. THIS — this is why i read.
romance: fade to black
thank you to the author for an arc. my thoughts are my own.
♡ 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙨 ♡
•family football games
•found family
•brothers from abandoning mothers
•family pranks — “you guys suck. i think i peed myself.”
•text banter
•he reads to her 🥹
•shane and liv’s morning routine
•bingo
•”i got you”
•the pants
•shane’s tshirts
•good communication
•the nicknames
•the mouse prank ��
this book is the reason i love bookstagram. i would have likely never found stacy’s book otherwise. i am so grateful that she took a chance on me to read an advanced copy of her book baby because it’s now one of my favorite books of all time. i will happily read anything stacy writes.
it’s so hard to review this book without spoiling it because there is a trope that this story is centered around which isn’t revealed in the synopsis. it’s best to read this book and undercover the treasure for yourself. what i will say is that this book swept me away with its words and made me feel EVERYTHING. there is so much feel good goodness in this book that i don’t even know where to begin. the absolutely beautiful progression of maggie and shane’s relationship. maggie’s family dynamics and her relationship with her siblings. shane’s brothers. shane’s and maggie’s backstories. SO. MUCH. MORE.
stacy williams is an expert storyteller. the way she slowly reveals this story was masterful and had me eagerly turning the pages. i laughed. i cried. i swooned. i bit my fist. i kicked the sheets. i rolled around my bed like a giddy school girl. i screamed. this story unhinged me in the best way. it’s is filled with so much heart and emotion. the epilogue was chef’s kiss and left me in tears. i just want to start it all over again. i’m completely blown away by the fact that this is stacy’s debut. it’s simply an amazing story that i just want to devour again and again. THIS — this is why i read.
romance: fade to black
thank you to the author for an arc. my thoughts are my own.
November 2, 2025
ALL THE FREAKING STARS!! 😍 This was definitely a case of “bookstagram made me do it.” I saw nothing but rave reviews and knew I had to get my hands on this book as soon as it was released. Everyone was right! I loved this debut novel so much. It was beautiful and raw and funny and swoony all at the same time—ALL the feels! 🫠
I’m going to be vague with the details because I think this is one of those books where you just need to experience the book with very little information. But just know that the romance is slow and swoony. Maggie is fiesty and fights for what she wants. Shane is a grump with a soft interior. Together they complement each other perfectly.
I loved all the side characters and their roles in the story. I am so excited that we are getting more books in this series and hope to see some of my favorite characters!
Content: Closed door, some strong language
I’m going to be vague with the details because I think this is one of those books where you just need to experience the book with very little information. But just know that the romance is slow and swoony. Maggie is fiesty and fights for what she wants. Shane is a grump with a soft interior. Together they complement each other perfectly.
I loved all the side characters and their roles in the story. I am so excited that we are getting more books in this series and hope to see some of my favorite characters!
Content: Closed door, some strong language
October 31, 2023
AN INCREDIBLE DEBUT.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am blown away by this book. I LOVED IT. I was absolutely SENT by this slow burn romance. Then tension between Maggie and Shane is next level and I love it all. And this really brought the steam without the spice and I will now be shouting to everyone to pick this book up ASAP.
I loved the journey Maggie and Shane went one, especially Shane. He is one I wanted to shake and hug all in the same breath. I loved the realistic nature of the romance and how he truly had to break down some walls and realize just how much love was around him. And I loved how Maggie was the embodiment of a sunshine character. Sunny and brave and doing everything she can to keep her siblings. And those siblings!! I loved them all. Realistic kids were her super sweet and I wanted the best for every one of these characters.
There were SO MANY good moments. This is a longer contemporary and you don’t even notice. The moments MATTER. The quiet, loud, angry and swoony filled. This does lean to the heavier side and will make you feel deep. The swoon and tenderness and all the dang things. I’m sitting her going over scene after scene in my mind because this is now living rent free.
I CAN’T WAIT for the next book.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Sports Romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of parents (recounted), child abuse (recounted), parental abandonment
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am blown away by this book. I LOVED IT. I was absolutely SENT by this slow burn romance. Then tension between Maggie and Shane is next level and I love it all. And this really brought the steam without the spice and I will now be shouting to everyone to pick this book up ASAP.
I loved the journey Maggie and Shane went one, especially Shane. He is one I wanted to shake and hug all in the same breath. I loved the realistic nature of the romance and how he truly had to break down some walls and realize just how much love was around him. And I loved how Maggie was the embodiment of a sunshine character. Sunny and brave and doing everything she can to keep her siblings. And those siblings!! I loved them all. Realistic kids were her super sweet and I wanted the best for every one of these characters.
There were SO MANY good moments. This is a longer contemporary and you don’t even notice. The moments MATTER. The quiet, loud, angry and swoony filled. This does lean to the heavier side and will make you feel deep. The swoon and tenderness and all the dang things. I’m sitting her going over scene after scene in my mind because this is now living rent free.
I CAN’T WAIT for the next book.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Sports Romance
- Language: some strong
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of parents (recounted), child abuse (recounted), parental abandonment
January 20, 2024
Readers who love a good football themed, slow burn romance...THIS ONE IS FOR YOU.
I love trying new indie authors, and after hearing nothing but rave reviews over Stacy's debut I decided to give it a go! This is a journey from start to finish as you get to explore Maggie's feisty yet loyal personality next to Shanes more closed off but loveable one. This is a story with ups and downs but ultimately has a very sweet and satisfying finish.
I think it's best to go in blind with this one, but I do think the slow burn journey has a lot of great memorable moments. From quiet conversations between characters to heartwarming family dynamics I do believe Stacy has thrown a touch town and made a name for herself in contemporary romance.
One of my favorite aspects of the storytelling was that Stacy as an author is putting herself in a category all her own. This is a book that has some strong language that is realistic for the character's backgrounds, but still falls into a fade to black...low spice category. I could see Stacy's personality in this story and she definitely penned out her heart to us on these pages.
I also really enjoyed the friendship dynamic and how football itself was constantly incorporated into the story making this a true sports romance. This story had great juxtaposition between the heavy and light moments making this a really fun, but still emotionally impactful story.
I'll definitely be reading the next book.
I love trying new indie authors, and after hearing nothing but rave reviews over Stacy's debut I decided to give it a go! This is a journey from start to finish as you get to explore Maggie's feisty yet loyal personality next to Shanes more closed off but loveable one. This is a story with ups and downs but ultimately has a very sweet and satisfying finish.
I think it's best to go in blind with this one, but I do think the slow burn journey has a lot of great memorable moments. From quiet conversations between characters to heartwarming family dynamics I do believe Stacy has thrown a touch town and made a name for herself in contemporary romance.
One of my favorite aspects of the storytelling was that Stacy as an author is putting herself in a category all her own. This is a book that has some strong language that is realistic for the character's backgrounds, but still falls into a fade to black...low spice category. I could see Stacy's personality in this story and she definitely penned out her heart to us on these pages.
I also really enjoyed the friendship dynamic and how football itself was constantly incorporated into the story making this a true sports romance. This story had great juxtaposition between the heavy and light moments making this a really fun, but still emotionally impactful story.
I'll definitely be reading the next book.
October 19, 2023
Oh this book! Such a heartfelt beautiful read that I feel honored to state that I got to read as an ARC reader! Today is publishing day and I’m so excited for others to get to read it 👌🏼
This book hits all the right spots with the best tropes - but I’ll let you discover them just as I did!
Stacy reached out to me and gave me a chance to read her book and I am so grateful as it blew me away & is easily one of my top 10 books of the year. The banter, the sass, the “I got you” vibes, it’s all wrapped up in one hell of an amazing book.
This book hits all the right spots with the best tropes - but I’ll let you discover them just as I did!
Stacy reached out to me and gave me a chance to read her book and I am so grateful as it blew me away & is easily one of my top 10 books of the year. The banter, the sass, the “I got you” vibes, it’s all wrapped up in one hell of an amazing book.
December 4, 2023
Really loved the depth in this romance. Tons of trauma healing and communication, and loved the direction the plot went (with one of my favorite tropes!).
HOWEVER
I struggled a bit with the writing style and constant errors (my editing brain was distracting me way too much). The FMC sounded immature to me, and I wish the dialogue with all the characters was more mature. (I don’t want to dwell on how many times the word “butt” showed up in the dialogue.) And I feel like everything resolved a little too neatly at the end.
This one just wasn’t for me, but I can see how many people would love it!
HOWEVER
I struggled a bit with the writing style and constant errors (my editing brain was distracting me way too much). The FMC sounded immature to me, and I wish the dialogue with all the characters was more mature. (I don’t want to dwell on how many times the word “butt” showed up in the dialogue.) And I feel like everything resolved a little too neatly at the end.
This one just wasn’t for me, but I can see how many people would love it!
November 14, 2025
Thank you, @stacywilliams.writes for the gifted audio copy!
Two years ago, Maggie’s life was upended when she found herself the primary caregiver for her four much younger step-siblings. At just 25, she’s no longer chasing her Juilliard-era dreams, just doing whatever she can to make it through each day filled with play dates and team practices, lunches and homework for her siblings that range in age from pre-school to high school. But she loves her chaotic family with her whole heart, so when life throws her yet another curveball, she realizes that if she had a husband, the courts would see her as a more suitable mother. Enter Shane, he’s starting his next chapter as a college football coach after a career-ending injury and he can’t explain it, but he feels the need to help Maggie. What starts as a favor ends up becoming much more as Maggie and Shane begin to share parts of themselves they’ve never opened up about before and find themselves caught in a fake marriage that begins to feel very, very real.
If you are a fan of “found family” in books, you are going to want to grab this one immediately. Maggie’s brothers and sisters as well as Shane’s best friends are one of the best representations. This is a slow burn, closed door story with a lot of fun moments as well as a lot of complex emotions based on past trauma in their lives that makes this a great read. Although closed door, it still offers up a number of steamy, tension-filled moments. It is the first in a series with Shane and his two best friends, Sean and Mark, as the main characters in each. I can’t wait to continue with the series.
🎧 Audiobook Thoughts: Alex Kydd and Jesse Vilinsky, who have turned in some absolutely stellar performances in the past, deliver perfectly here. The capture the fun, emotion, chaos, and love of the characters perfectly. (15h 51m)
Two years ago, Maggie’s life was upended when she found herself the primary caregiver for her four much younger step-siblings. At just 25, she’s no longer chasing her Juilliard-era dreams, just doing whatever she can to make it through each day filled with play dates and team practices, lunches and homework for her siblings that range in age from pre-school to high school. But she loves her chaotic family with her whole heart, so when life throws her yet another curveball, she realizes that if she had a husband, the courts would see her as a more suitable mother. Enter Shane, he’s starting his next chapter as a college football coach after a career-ending injury and he can’t explain it, but he feels the need to help Maggie. What starts as a favor ends up becoming much more as Maggie and Shane begin to share parts of themselves they’ve never opened up about before and find themselves caught in a fake marriage that begins to feel very, very real.
If you are a fan of “found family” in books, you are going to want to grab this one immediately. Maggie’s brothers and sisters as well as Shane’s best friends are one of the best representations. This is a slow burn, closed door story with a lot of fun moments as well as a lot of complex emotions based on past trauma in their lives that makes this a great read. Although closed door, it still offers up a number of steamy, tension-filled moments. It is the first in a series with Shane and his two best friends, Sean and Mark, as the main characters in each. I can’t wait to continue with the series.
🎧 Audiobook Thoughts: Alex Kydd and Jesse Vilinsky, who have turned in some absolutely stellar performances in the past, deliver perfectly here. The capture the fun, emotion, chaos, and love of the characters perfectly. (15h 51m)
November 2, 2025
I wasn't expecting much when I picked this one up. It turned out to be good and heartwarming. I like the relationships between Shane and Maggie, Maggie's siblings. I really enjoyed it.
July 26, 2024
It’s fine . I’m fine . I am totally fine. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
September 18, 2023
Such an incredible book! Everything about it was so well thought out and it was hard to put down!
Found family and marriage of convenience are main plots in this story, and they were written so well. If you’re looking for a clean sporty romance, this is it!!!
Found family and marriage of convenience are main plots in this story, and they were written so well. If you’re looking for a clean sporty romance, this is it!!!
October 18, 2023
Romantic Content: closed door, but believe me, Stacy brings the heat 🔥
Trigger Warnings: death of a parent; abuse of a child (flashbacks- no graphic content); grief; foster care
Believe me when I say that Stacy Williams new debut novel I Got You, is not one you’ll want to miss!!! As I opened the pages of this book, I was quickly swept away into a story packed full of tenderness, humor, warmth, and love.
The characters were diverse and achingly sweet. The love story had just the right amount of angst and tension. The chemistry between Shane and Maggie was nothing short of steamy, while still remaining “closed door”. And the various relationships portrayed felt extremely real and tangible, as if I had stepped right inside the story myself.
For the sake of your reading experience, I’ve decided NOT to give away tropes or a synopsis, instead I wholeheartedly recommend you to walk into this lovely story blind. I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I did!!
Trigger Warnings: death of a parent; abuse of a child (flashbacks- no graphic content); grief; foster care
Believe me when I say that Stacy Williams new debut novel I Got You, is not one you’ll want to miss!!! As I opened the pages of this book, I was quickly swept away into a story packed full of tenderness, humor, warmth, and love.
The characters were diverse and achingly sweet. The love story had just the right amount of angst and tension. The chemistry between Shane and Maggie was nothing short of steamy, while still remaining “closed door”. And the various relationships portrayed felt extremely real and tangible, as if I had stepped right inside the story myself.
For the sake of your reading experience, I’ve decided NOT to give away tropes or a synopsis, instead I wholeheartedly recommend you to walk into this lovely story blind. I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I did!!
October 3, 2023
This is a top 2023 read for me.
This book handled sensitive topics, had all the angst and drama, a big family, and PRECIOUS characters.
I hesitate with the whole “big family banter” love, because personally I just think the banter in a multi-character scene is rarely done exceptionally well. This book made me feel addicted to the characters. Absolutely flawless dialogue and description. I truly walked away feeling like I *knew* the family and not because of needless info-dumping. Each one was revealed organically in the course of the story and it was precious.
Shane and Maggie were perfect. I felt their pain points. Literally agonized with them. Routed for them like a crazy person. And got like four hours of sleep in order to find answers. The slow burn was 🔥
Also from a writers POV, I am *often* jolted out of the story due to stylistic preferences. But I forgot I was reading I Got You. Kind of felt like I was hanging on the couch watching the game with them…and I don’t even like football.
This author has major Katherine Centers vibes. Funny, deep-enough, beautiful moments, one liners to remember, twists of drama, and satisfying ending.
Here’s the crazy part—this is Stacy’s debut. She doesn’t sound like a newbie in the slightest. This was riveting—beginning to end. Nothing but my highest respect and highest recommendations.
If this book isn’t like first on your fall TBR, you’re making a mistake.
Content: language, FTB
This book handled sensitive topics, had all the angst and drama, a big family, and PRECIOUS characters.
I hesitate with the whole “big family banter” love, because personally I just think the banter in a multi-character scene is rarely done exceptionally well. This book made me feel addicted to the characters. Absolutely flawless dialogue and description. I truly walked away feeling like I *knew* the family and not because of needless info-dumping. Each one was revealed organically in the course of the story and it was precious.
Shane and Maggie were perfect. I felt their pain points. Literally agonized with them. Routed for them like a crazy person. And got like four hours of sleep in order to find answers. The slow burn was 🔥
Also from a writers POV, I am *often* jolted out of the story due to stylistic preferences. But I forgot I was reading I Got You. Kind of felt like I was hanging on the couch watching the game with them…and I don’t even like football.
This author has major Katherine Centers vibes. Funny, deep-enough, beautiful moments, one liners to remember, twists of drama, and satisfying ending.
Here’s the crazy part—this is Stacy’s debut. She doesn’t sound like a newbie in the slightest. This was riveting—beginning to end. Nothing but my highest respect and highest recommendations.
If this book isn’t like first on your fall TBR, you’re making a mistake.
Content: language, FTB
April 6, 2024
This book was funny, and the kids were great. (Liv and Shane were adorable.) The pranks were top-notch and I was laughing throughout.
That being said, this book couldn't decide if it wanted to be Christian fiction or secular fiction. There were multiple conversations about God and Maggie is a strong Christian who spends a significant amount of time in prayer and at church. Shane is an atheist. Also, there was a surprising amount of strong language.
This book could have benefited from another round with an editor as there were errors and the book could have been shortened.
Reading this review, it may sound like I didn't enjoy the book, but that couldn't be further from the truth. It just needed a little more to reach its full potential.
3.75 Stars
Content: closed door, language up to and including f, remembering deaths of parents and abuse
Quotes:
"You know what my mama said about wishes? She said they're like prayers. Sometimes we ask God for things, and He answers our prayers, but sometimes He decides it's not hte right time or He has something even better planned."
"The FBI? You had someone from the FBI check him out?"
She shrugs. "Yeah, I didn't like his tone."
That being said, this book couldn't decide if it wanted to be Christian fiction or secular fiction. There were multiple conversations about God and Maggie is a strong Christian who spends a significant amount of time in prayer and at church. Shane is an atheist. Also, there was a surprising amount of strong language.
This book could have benefited from another round with an editor as there were errors and the book could have been shortened.
Reading this review, it may sound like I didn't enjoy the book, but that couldn't be further from the truth. It just needed a little more to reach its full potential.
3.75 Stars
Content: closed door, language up to and including f, remembering deaths of parents and abuse
Quotes:
"You know what my mama said about wishes? She said they're like prayers. Sometimes we ask God for things, and He answers our prayers, but sometimes He decides it's not hte right time or He has something even better planned."
"The FBI? You had someone from the FBI check him out?"
She shrugs. "Yeah, I didn't like his tone."
September 25, 2023
This was a very impressive debut! The story is well-plotted, the characters have depth and growth and it is just an entertaining read. I fell in love with Maggie and Shane as well as side characters that I’m hoping get their own books. I wanted a happily ever after for this family so badly and the author delivered.
This book has an argument meet-cute, Cheaper by the Dozen familial vibes, the BEST nicknames (and that is coming from someone who doesn’t usually like nicknames!) and a nice long epilogue. I’m not going to get into the tropes but trust me - you will love them and this book in general. It hits some heavy topics but does so very well and throws in plenty of humor and romantic tension.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Content Notes: Fade to black romance, some strong language
This book has an argument meet-cute, Cheaper by the Dozen familial vibes, the BEST nicknames (and that is coming from someone who doesn’t usually like nicknames!) and a nice long epilogue. I’m not going to get into the tropes but trust me - you will love them and this book in general. It hits some heavy topics but does so very well and throws in plenty of humor and romantic tension.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Content Notes: Fade to black romance, some strong language
August 5, 2025
Was time for a reread. What more can I say... I'm a sucker for marriage of convenience.
__________
Original review:
Such a stunning debut! I loved this book.
If you enjoyed "The Wall of Winnipeg and Me", then I think you'll enjoy this one. It's a marriage-of-convenience, grumpy/sunshine, slow-burn, sports romance... but keeps things closed door.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for their next contemporary romance!!!
__________
Original review:
Such a stunning debut! I loved this book.
If you enjoyed "The Wall of Winnipeg and Me", then I think you'll enjoy this one. It's a marriage-of-convenience, grumpy/sunshine, slow-burn, sports romance... but keeps things closed door.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for their next contemporary romance!!!
October 15, 2025
Plot- Such a great marriage of convenience plot. Mostly believable and entirely enjoyable. The found family dynamics were chef’s kiss!
Characters- I really liked Maggie, the FMC. She was adorable and happy and wonderful with the kids. Shane, the MMC, was awesome. His character arc was great, too.
I loved how they valued family above career and other pursuits. This book was big on relationships. There were some great friendships with supportive side characters that I really enjoyed.
The author nailed it when it came to the kids. They were endearing and fun. The kids added to the story.
The only issue I had with the FMC was that she sometimes had a lapse in maturity and got riled up when I thought it was unnecessary and even immature. Like yelling at an annoying guy at a football game. Obv he was in the wrong, so just take the higher road and ignore him. (I think this author must fantasize about sticking it to the man and having a great comeback in the spur of the moment. Haha.)
Or when she totally laid into one of Shane’s players when it wasn’t her right to do so. Shane loved it but I thought it was brash and inappropriate, given that it was unsolicited, her info was second-hand thru Shane, and she wasn’t this guy’s coach. I can’t imagine any adult appreciating this lecture (and changing/benefiting from it) from a complete stranger. That scene was silly.
”I suggested you might need to understand that if you want to play in the big leagues, you need an attitude adjustment.”
Luckily, she was so amazing in every other scene that I was able to overlook these minor lapses in judgment.
(This harsh communication style also bled into other characters, too. This author is def a fan of the “tough love” kind of dialogue. The way Mark ripped into Shane was a bit cringy. I think people work better with constructive criticism/truths than with ripping them apart and saying, “you’re such an idiot!” Think of how a counselor would approach it, and that’s probably more constructive.)
Romance- What a tender love story! They had great chemistry and complete devotion to each other. Loved it.
I also really appreciated that they weren’t interested in casual sex. The FMC had never gone thru a promiscuous stage, and the MMC had quickly discovered he didn’t like those kinds of non-relationships.
I don’t want to go back, but I’m not ready to jump that far forward without more. I want it all. I love Shane, but for us to be intimate, I need to be loved in return. It’s the only way.
Writing - The only thing I disliked in this story was a few issues I had with the writing.
The last quarter or so of the book had lots of errors. And spatial issues, like when Shane pushes off the counter and then pushes off the counter again. Or this example:
I rest my head on his shoulder. “Yeah. I’m good. I’m ready to see what’s next.” I cup his face with my hands.
Also, a lot of unnecessary swearing. Especially what felt like the last 25%.
The main character, Maggie, uses this kind of harsh language in an affectionate way. This is def not my style, so it felt jarring:
”Hank is coming home, and I miss that little shithead like crazy.”
Besides that, the writing was great!
Content-
Language- Lots of swearing. Mostly the sh-word and a-word. Maybe 15 f-words.
Spice- one intimate scene between a married couple that pulls the curtain pretty quickly. He takes her shirt off but it’s not clear if she is naked underneath or has a bra on. It was actually a really sweet scene, where they exchange I love yous.
There was another naked scene due to a shower and a spider, but it wasn’t raunchy in the least. I would consider this steamy clean, which is my fave.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- no. Social drinking.
Cover- meh
POV- dual POV, first person
Cliffhanger- no. I def want to read the rest of the series!
Format- KU
Characters- I really liked Maggie, the FMC. She was adorable and happy and wonderful with the kids. Shane, the MMC, was awesome. His character arc was great, too.
I loved how they valued family above career and other pursuits. This book was big on relationships. There were some great friendships with supportive side characters that I really enjoyed.
The author nailed it when it came to the kids. They were endearing and fun. The kids added to the story.
The only issue I had with the FMC was that she sometimes had a lapse in maturity and got riled up when I thought it was unnecessary and even immature. Like yelling at an annoying guy at a football game. Obv he was in the wrong, so just take the higher road and ignore him. (I think this author must fantasize about sticking it to the man and having a great comeback in the spur of the moment. Haha.)
Or when she totally laid into one of Shane’s players when it wasn’t her right to do so. Shane loved it but I thought it was brash and inappropriate, given that it was unsolicited, her info was second-hand thru Shane, and she wasn’t this guy’s coach. I can’t imagine any adult appreciating this lecture (and changing/benefiting from it) from a complete stranger. That scene was silly.
”I suggested you might need to understand that if you want to play in the big leagues, you need an attitude adjustment.”
Luckily, she was so amazing in every other scene that I was able to overlook these minor lapses in judgment.
(This harsh communication style also bled into other characters, too. This author is def a fan of the “tough love” kind of dialogue. The way Mark ripped into Shane was a bit cringy. I think people work better with constructive criticism/truths than with ripping them apart and saying, “you’re such an idiot!” Think of how a counselor would approach it, and that’s probably more constructive.)
Romance- What a tender love story! They had great chemistry and complete devotion to each other. Loved it.
I also really appreciated that they weren’t interested in casual sex. The FMC had never gone thru a promiscuous stage, and the MMC had quickly discovered he didn’t like those kinds of non-relationships.
I don’t want to go back, but I’m not ready to jump that far forward without more. I want it all. I love Shane, but for us to be intimate, I need to be loved in return. It’s the only way.
Writing - The only thing I disliked in this story was a few issues I had with the writing.
The last quarter or so of the book had lots of errors. And spatial issues, like when Shane pushes off the counter and then pushes off the counter again. Or this example:
I rest my head on his shoulder. “Yeah. I’m good. I’m ready to see what’s next.” I cup his face with my hands.
Also, a lot of unnecessary swearing. Especially what felt like the last 25%.
The main character, Maggie, uses this kind of harsh language in an affectionate way. This is def not my style, so it felt jarring:
”Hank is coming home, and I miss that little shithead like crazy.”
Besides that, the writing was great!
Content-
Language- Lots of swearing. Mostly the sh-word and a-word. Maybe 15 f-words.
Spice- one intimate scene between a married couple that pulls the curtain pretty quickly. He takes her shirt off but it’s not clear if she is naked underneath or has a bra on. It was actually a really sweet scene, where they exchange I love yous.
There was another naked scene due to a shower and a spider, but it wasn’t raunchy in the least. I would consider this steamy clean, which is my fave.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- no. Social drinking.
Cover- meh
POV- dual POV, first person
Cliffhanger- no. I def want to read the rest of the series!
Format- KU
June 11, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
This was a sloooowww burn, which usually isn't my thing but for some reason this just worked - which says a lot because I've been struggling to not only start a book, let alone finish one so it clearly kept my interest!
This is a pretty clean romance (kissing only) - no spice, so have to take some points off for that, however it didn't ruin it for me.
MMC is celibate for a while and definitely safe - says a few times it hasn't been too many women and tells FMC that as well (he's not a player):
FMC has only slept with one man
☆ Dual pov
☆ Both celibate (see details above)
☆ Ex-NFL player/college football coach MMC
☆ Dancer FMC
☆ FMC is guardian to her four younger siblings (age 4-14)
☆ No cheating or OW/OM drama
☆ Closed-door sexy times
☆ HEA + epilogue a few months later
This was a sloooowww burn, which usually isn't my thing but for some reason this just worked - which says a lot because I've been struggling to not only start a book, let alone finish one so it clearly kept my interest!
This is a pretty clean romance (kissing only) - no spice, so have to take some points off for that, however it didn't ruin it for me.
MMC is celibate for a while and definitely safe - says a few times it hasn't been too many women and tells FMC that as well (he's not a player):
"I've slept with women before, not a lot of women, and maybe not all night"
FMC has only slept with one man
☆ Dual pov
☆ Both celibate (see details above)
☆ Ex-NFL player/college football coach MMC
☆ Dancer FMC
☆ FMC is guardian to her four younger siblings (age 4-14)
☆ No cheating or OW/OM drama
☆ Closed-door sexy times
☆ HEA + epilogue a few months later
September 19, 2023
I got you! Words so innocent, yet so powerful! Where do I even begin… loved how Shane ad Maggie met. My heart broke for Shane upon learning of his life story, but I loved how he took it upon himself to make something of his life despite feeling broken. His willingness to help Maggie and Cole keep their younger siblings with them after their dad's passing, without even knowing them, shows just how much love this Grzz of a man has to give. Maggie is a spitfire and I loved her character. She showed some strength despite her past hurts and experience at the hands of her dad's brother and wife. The kids were wonderful to include Teddy and his pranks… priceless. Liv stole my heart and Shane's foster brothers were a hoot. This book had it all and had my emotions going all over the place. I loved it!!
September 13, 2025
4.5⭐️
This was such an emotional and heartwarming read🥹 the relationship between Shane and Maggie was so sweet to watch - I loved how the author really leaned into the emotional side of their relationship and how each of them healed something inside the other. I also appreciate how the grumpy x sunshine trope was more subtle; like it wasn’t the over exaggerated super overly cheerful one with the unnecessarily mean and grumpy one. It seemed more like someone who loves easily weaseling their way into the heart of someone that hasn’t known love before.
Tropes you’ll see in this book:
🤎Grumpy x sunshine
🤎Marriage of convenience
🤎Found family
🤎Football coach x dancer
🤎He reads to her
🤎She wears his jersey
🤎He becomes a dad with the softest heart
🤎Emotional healing
I’m excited to read more in this series to see the love stories with the other brothers!🥰
This was such an emotional and heartwarming read🥹 the relationship between Shane and Maggie was so sweet to watch - I loved how the author really leaned into the emotional side of their relationship and how each of them healed something inside the other. I also appreciate how the grumpy x sunshine trope was more subtle; like it wasn’t the over exaggerated super overly cheerful one with the unnecessarily mean and grumpy one. It seemed more like someone who loves easily weaseling their way into the heart of someone that hasn’t known love before.
Tropes you’ll see in this book:
🤎Grumpy x sunshine
🤎Marriage of convenience
🤎Found family
🤎Football coach x dancer
🤎He reads to her
🤎She wears his jersey
🤎He becomes a dad with the softest heart
🤎Emotional healing
I’m excited to read more in this series to see the love stories with the other brothers!🥰
September 20, 2023
i got you by stacy williams
“i got you, and i’m going to keep you always”
・❥・
wow wow wow this book! i was kicking my feet and squealing with giggles the entire time. this is such a feel good story and i just love maggie and shane so so much. their banter, their bonding, just their communication in general it’s my favorite thing. and let me tell you stacy williams absolutely NAILS the found family trope with this one. there’s so much more i want to say about this book but i can’t say too much without spoiling! there is one trope though that i Know so many of you will love but this trope isn’t revealed in the synopsis of the book so you’ll just have to read shane and maggie’s story to find out more!
you for sure need to pick this up though if you love cute text threads, found family. soft nicknames, jersey trope and solid communication! as always i’m very grateful to be a part of the book sirens community so i could grab this arc! i got you by stacy williams is available for preorder now and will be released on october 16, 2023
“i got you, and i’m going to keep you always”
・❥・
wow wow wow this book! i was kicking my feet and squealing with giggles the entire time. this is such a feel good story and i just love maggie and shane so so much. their banter, their bonding, just their communication in general it’s my favorite thing. and let me tell you stacy williams absolutely NAILS the found family trope with this one. there’s so much more i want to say about this book but i can’t say too much without spoiling! there is one trope though that i Know so many of you will love but this trope isn’t revealed in the synopsis of the book so you’ll just have to read shane and maggie’s story to find out more!
you for sure need to pick this up though if you love cute text threads, found family. soft nicknames, jersey trope and solid communication! as always i’m very grateful to be a part of the book sirens community so i could grab this arc! i got you by stacy williams is available for preorder now and will be released on october 16, 2023
September 21, 2023
Absolutely loved!!
I don't want to make a list of tropes like I do a lot of times, because I think you should just go in blind! Absolutely delightful!
What I will say is that the whole cast of characters are FANTASTIC. Maggie is fiesty and sassy and so tough and brave and fun! And Shane is a grumpy loner with the sweetest, softest heart! (Talk about a fineapple!!) I adored all the side characters as well and the roles they each played in this story!!
Both main characters experienced so much growth and it was beautiful to see! There is excellent tension, pining, banter and sass!
I laughed, I swooned, my heart was melted, I loved it all!
This is a sports romance you don't want to miss!!
OCT 14TH!
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moderate language used through-out the book, including a few F words scattered here and there (Think Katherine Center language level.)
Romance is closed-door/fade-to-black
I don't want to make a list of tropes like I do a lot of times, because I think you should just go in blind! Absolutely delightful!
What I will say is that the whole cast of characters are FANTASTIC. Maggie is fiesty and sassy and so tough and brave and fun! And Shane is a grumpy loner with the sweetest, softest heart! (Talk about a fineapple!!) I adored all the side characters as well and the roles they each played in this story!!
Both main characters experienced so much growth and it was beautiful to see! There is excellent tension, pining, banter and sass!
I laughed, I swooned, my heart was melted, I loved it all!
This is a sports romance you don't want to miss!!
OCT 14TH!
.
.
moderate language used through-out the book, including a few F words scattered here and there (Think Katherine Center language level.)
Romance is closed-door/fade-to-black
October 12, 2023
ARC review. Thank you to author Stacy Williams for the advanced copy of this book. WOW, there is no way this is Stacy’s first book, it was AMAZING! One of the biggest themes throughout this book is sacrifice. There are multiple examples of life-changing decisions that are made for others and they all come together to create a beautiful story. The main characters are exceptional, I found both Maggie and Shane to be relatable and realistic. There are a lot of side characters, which I find to sometimes be confusing, but they all added to this story and made it stronger. I don’t think there is anything about this book I would want to be different. This is possibly my top read for 2023!
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November 8, 2023DNF at 34%
I'm clearly in the minority here. It was just a little too unbelievable that Shane would make such a big commitment after one interaction with Maggie. I had a hard time feeling the chemistry, and I didn't really feel like continuing.
I'm clearly in the minority here. It was just a little too unbelievable that Shane would make such a big commitment after one interaction with Maggie. I had a hard time feeling the chemistry, and I didn't really feel like continuing.
February 25, 2025
Wall of winnipeg meets wait for it. Loveeee
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