Guarded by the Goalie

Wittmore U Hockey #2

by Angel Lawson

“To new identities,” he declares, holding up his glass. “To no more epic f-ups. No more partying for me. No more athletes for you. Not until we get it together.”

Little did I know that the night I made the deal with the tattooed, pierced, star goalie in the back room of a bar, that we were starting something--something we can't stop. Except he’s on probation, and I’m looking to change my reputation as a jersey chaser willing to do whatever it took to win the quarterback’s attention.

We needed to change–but neither of us thought we could do it alone.

But with Axel Rakestraw’s charming smile, it’s a good thing hockey player’s aren’t my thing.

And even if they were, my roommate, who dates the captain of the team, told me that hockey players are off-limits. She’s probably right. People around me tend to get hurt.

I tend to get hurt.

Protecting things is what I do. The goal, my teammates, and now this girl.

I’ve spent the last four years living my best life, knowing that once I graduate, my future belongs to my father’s ministry. No more partying. No more women. No more hockey.

With my senior year and an undefeated season underway, I had no plans on slowing down, until the night I unwittingly consume a drink meant for Nadia at a party. The next day I fail a mandatory drug test at practice.

Someone is out to sabotage us both.

I can take care of myself, but Nadia? I’m not allowing someone to hurt her again, not on my watch.

Can one of Wittmore U’s most notorious playboy’s and a blacklisted jersey chaser change their ways long enough to fall in love?

Genres: Sports, Romance, Hockey, Hockey Romance, Sports Romance, College, Friends To Lovers

301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2024

Reviews

[Darkest Bellé · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️♾️

Meet your newest Hockey Romance Obsession!!

This is the 2nd book in the Wittmore U Hockey series and we meet the two best friends of the main characters from book one Faking It With The Forward Nadia and Axel!

AXEL freaking RAKESTRAW has me swooning, more men his age or older need to take a page out of his book of romance instantly emotionally available, he’s got a golden retriever personally with a bite! His dirty mouth and way of thinking just makes you swoon even harder for him!

Nadia Beckwith was once the it girl, popular jersey chaser and now she’s on the outs, outcasted to a nobody for an incident online and she’s full of raw emotions, she’s not sure what to do next, where her life’s plan is headed until collided with Axel and their relationship blossoms!

This slow burn romance really faces dealing with self demons, self acceptance, keeping your inner circle full of ride or dies and burning those infamous walls we build to protect ourselves!

Falling in love with this storyline was surprisingly delicious, this being my first ARC from Author Angel Lawson I love her dark romance, reverse harem books that’s what I know her for but with Wittmore U series she’s captivating contemporary romance better than I could ever imagine! This is the newest Hockey Hottest Sports Romance dare I say better than Elle Kennedy’s Campus U series!

[nikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

MAN WHAT DO I NEED TO DO FOR A MAN TO GET TWO TATTOOS FOR ME?!?!?😭🤚🏻 Nadia and Axel were so cute tg omg🥹 Loved them sm and I'm SUPER excited for Shelby and Reid next!!!!🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾

safety squad:
- no OW/OM drama
- no cheating/sharing
- reformed player x jersey chaser
- no virgins
- hockey romance
- slight angst
- friends to lovers (with an accidental one night stand🫣)
- mentions of rape, grooming, religion, drugs, etc so don't forget to check the TWs!
- HEA

[Mariana | By Any Medium · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot/Storyline : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Editing (typos, grammar, etc) : ✏️✏️✏️✏️.5

WE NEED MORE MEN LIKE AXEL IN THE REAL WORLD!

This story picks up where Faking it with the Forward left off (before the epilogue) and follows the two best friends of Twyler and Reese : Nadia and Axel.

There is so much emotional growth and healing in this book that it gets overwhelming at times and that’s when you know it’s a worthwhile story. This book may force you to confront some of your own inner demons and reflect on personal decisions made based off of that influence.

This is an M/F contemporary romance that can be read as a standalone but in order to thoroughly appreciate the context and dynamic of the main characters, the previous book should be read first.

The main male character, Axel Rakestraw, is a German Shepard personality who lives his life up to the fullest as he feels the walls closing in on him on the inevitable.

The main female character, Nadia Beckwith, a once notorious jersey chaser on campus, is now dealing with being blacklisted and figuring out how to navigate everyday life after the LonelyFans incident.

When these two collide - be prepared for the full range of emotions.

This is a slow-burn, but once you really get into the ‘meat’ of this book it’s so f*cking delicious. *wink*

Axel seriously has one of the best mouths and minds I’ve come across. He scores ALL the points with his progressive, feminist views.

And Nadia, my girl; I will protect her just as fiercely as her circle does.

Yes - my opinion on this book is going to be highly biased as I was afforded the opportunity to beta read but something that I am not is an exaggerator nor am I fake; I will not blow smoke up an author’s ass just because I have a relationship with them. But this book is so good and so worth the read.

Angel’s writing keeps getting better as she progresses with her Wittmore U series.

[Denisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75

[Daniela Barragan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️

ME ENCANTÓ 😍 El primer libro lo amé con mi vida y sabía que el segundo no decepcionaría. Me sacó de un bloqueo y me lo leí súper rápido, NO PODÍA PARAR.

Una de las cosas que más destacó es que me gustó mucho que Nadia no es la típica protagonista chica buena, sin experiencia, bla bla bla. Tiene un pasado, una reputación y es el tipo de chica que siempre usan como villana o para ser misóginos en otras historias. Creo que da un msj que no tienes que hay alguien que te va a amar tal cual eres 🩷 También es importante cómo abordan lo que le pasó y cómo la autora te da otra perspectiva del abuso.

Y Axel es un súper amor, definitivamente pasa a mi lista de book boyfriends 😍🥰

Mi única crítica en este momento, es que el cierre puedo ser mejor y un poco más conclusivo porque no deja claro si Alex va a intentar meterse en el Draft y perseguir la carrera en la NHL.

[bookswithanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5!
Oh I love Hockey romance ! And I loved Axel!!
This was such a fun read and I binged it in one day 😄
Personally I think this really heavy topic could have been handled a bit better but I will definitely read more books by this author

[Vanessa Gayle ⚔️ Fangirl Faction · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was quite the ride. These characters are so addicting. I actually didn't care for the female lead character but she was still very compelling and relatable so I couldn't hate her. All of the characters are distinct and have so much personality. I adore the cast of secondary characters that add so much depth to the story. The romance was kind of adorable and I really loved the common ground that the two main characters found with each other along with a sense of support from each other. This author is really talented when it comes to plotting out her stories. The plot of this book was interesting and had so many facets. There were so many parts at play and the author connected everything beautifully. Her writing style is good but isn't as edgy or gritty as I like. I don't quite know how to describe it but in my last review, I said that it isn't bland or cringey but lacks something. Like some of the things that the characters say or do is wrapped in a protective bubblegum layer that feels unnecessary. The world-building was on point and brought this college sports setting to life. Overall, this book captured my attention easily and kept me entertained and in my feels. I fell in love with this cast of characters and I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series!


BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI

⛔My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 of Whittmore U Hockey series, it can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading book 1 first to get a better idea of the events that took place with Nadia. Axel and Nadia are the best friends of book 1’s MC’s.

I wish there were more men like Axel Rakestraw in the world because that man was just the sweetest! he has a rep for being a “F” boy but after he spends the night with Nadia…. He only wants one woman. He’s sexy, cool, funny and protective AF and knows exactly how to please his woman…..what more could you ask for.

Nadia also has a bad rep, she’s known on campus as being a jersey chaser and making her way around the players but after the events of book 1 she has made the decision to change her ways.

Which leads her to Axel.

After Axel is put on probation for a failed drug test and Nadia is being blacklisted by her ex they make a pack to support each other and stop any more “EPIC F-UPs”

But of course spending all this extra time together makes them realise they could have something pretty special.

But things don’t go smoothly they both have some baggage and troubled pasts to deal with which causes them to have some trust issues over certain things.

I loved Axel and Nadia they were perfect for each other, I look forward to Reid’s book next.

[A · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had to DNF.

This dude has so many red flags! Like the fact that several times he concedes that he understands the reason why the two jocks sexually exploited the FMC is horrifying. I have never been more disgusted by a non-dark/bully romance MMC.

Then add on that he knows that she’s feeling vulnerable after what she went through and they literally have a conversation about it and he still sleeps with her immediately after that conversation. Finally add on that this dude literally has a conversation about how the FMC is vulnerable after being sexually assaulted with his friend and still plans on trying to get with her (and shows no indication that he cares about making sure she’s in a healthy mental state when he does so)….just no.

He just so clearly has absolutely no respect for her and what she went through.

[Sammy Storey · Rating 2 out of 5]

college kids ain’t for me dawg this was crazy

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me absolutely tearing through this series kicking my feet and sobbing my eyes out. Who knew a reformed playboy and a blacklisted jersey chaser could make me feel so much?! Bro his reassurance of her needs? Her turning to him when she’s never been vulnerable like that before? I’m literally a mess. But seriously, this was much darker thematically since the last one and it was a journey of deep personal healing and smut on the side and I think that combo is right up my alley.

I also relate very deeply to Nadia and this brought up a lot of old college memories and some were good, but some were not and while I’ve grown up and worked through it, going back was just really cathartic for me. So thank you, Angel, as always, for being my safe space.

I’m absolutely cracking into book 3 now bc I have a sneaking suspicion of who it’s gonna be and I literally cannot wait because I love these characters and this world and having sports woven in ain’t too shabby.

[Lucie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy heck, give me a man like Axel Rakestraw any day of the week.

This is the second book in the series and follows the two best friends of the MCs from the first book. I wasn’t sure how they were going to spin this story after all that happened in book one to Nadia but this did not disappoint.

Definitely loved the overprotective, he falls first tropes in this book, coupled with Axel’s foul mouth/way with words and I could not put this book down.

Would highly recommend reading Faking it with the Forward (book 1) before reading this one as there are a lots of references to events from that book in this one.

[EternallyPaperbound · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was cute.
I liked the whole pastor back story, Nadia dealing with all her issues, the way Axel stepped up for her was sweet. I'm always a bit weary of the whole tattooed and pierced premise, I mean so am I and I'm a primary school teacher - not sure it holds the same value, or induces the same fear that seems to be he intent in these situations … feel we could have mentioned that less, but who am I to judge - I get what the author was going for.
Their journey and the safety they found in each other was gorgeous, made for a smiley read.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

After binge reading book one I dove straight into book 2 and continued to binge read the entire thing.

The bad boy goalie and former jersey chaser make a pact to be each others person and help them change their ways… what could go wrong.

These two were everything!

Absolutely devoured this, I can definitely say I am obsessed with hockey romances 😍

[Sloth Incarnate 🍉]

what the actual fuck

[Yvonne · Rating 2 out of 5]

2⭐️ 2🌶️ 2🎧

[Jasmine Bullock · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would’ve been better if twyler and reese knew how to stfu and mind their business

[Melis · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wasn’t a big fan of Nadia in the first book, glad I gave this book a chance & got to know her more but while I got to understand her better I didn’t really like her. Found her quite sad actually considering her history her only goal was to be a wag 😭.. Axel was okay but also kind of disappointing. I wish he stood up for himself more especially against his dad’s bs & also confronted his mom & sister. In regards to him & Nadia I didn’t really feel the connection. Idk maybe because I wasn’t feeling them as individuals I didn’t feel strongly for them as a couple..
I loved the appearances from the previous couple & getting a tease for the next book.

[Payton · Rating 5 out of 5]

reformed playboy with patch work tattoos, slutty shorts and a top gun stache? SIGN ME UP ILL BE ON MY KNEES

[Monze]

34%

[Arielliasa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Это уже какое-то своеобразное проклятие моих любимых персонажей книжных серий. Как бы я не любила пару из первой части, вся моя вера и надежда была на второй роман. Аксель, живущий по принципу: "плевать, что будет потом, главное веселиться сейчас и Надя с виду такая несерьёзная, но на деле с поломанной жизнью и вереницей подростковых травм. История должна была получиться драматичной, но огненной, а на деле оставила после себя крах всяких надежд. Нет, всё было не так уж и плохо. Это хорошая романтическая книга и её приятно читать из-за адекватных героев, но мои собственные ожидания она не смогла превзойти.

Надя построила свою молодость на поисках идеального будущего мужа-спортсмена. Вот только каждая её новая попытка заканчивалась полным провалом, а последний парень и вовсе сломал всё в ней. Он не воспринимал девушку, как свою возлюбленную, скорее видел в ней сексуальный объект: красивый, конечно, но не дотягивающий до его уровня. Он пригласил героиню в общежитие для спортсменов, накачал запрещёнными веществами и "подложил" под своего друга, чтобы после выложить этот ролик на всеобщее обозрение и заработать денег. Едва избежав такой участи, Надя решает больше не иметь дел с парнями, а особенно со спортсменами.

Аксель с раннего детства понимал, что никакой свободы у него не будет. Тиранический и контролирующий отец, создавший свою империю, построенную на вере и всё это должно перейти к герою. Поэтому попав в университет, Аксель жил одним днём. Спал со всеми подряд, посещал каждую вечеринку, накачивался алкоголем и старался ни о чём не думать. Попав в непростую ситуацию оба героя начинают понемногу сближаться, найдя друг в друге опору. Вот только она всё ещё не хочет связываться со спортсменами, а он ничего не можёт поделать со своим будущем.

Я ставила в плюс то, как авторка в первом романе идеально прописала драму и это действительно так. Проблема же этого в том, что она эту драму не дотянула. В отличие от первой пары, здесь оба героя травмированные каждый своими проблемами. Надю буквально стала жертвой насилия, на Акселя весь текст морально давил отец, зная, что герой не сможет сбежать, бросив тем самым младшую сестру. Были ли эти темы в книге? Да. Достаточно ли проработан этот сюжет? Да ни в жизни. У меня было ощущение, что я читаю какой-то максимально ненапряжённый сюжет, где никаких проблем и вовсе не существует.

И это единственный минус для меня, потому что всё остальное осталось на том же уровне. Оба героя прекрасные люди и динамика между ними приятная. Здесь нет такого, чтобы герой вытягивал героиню из пучины, ничего не получая в ответ. Они оба помогали друг другу и их общение действительно замечательное. Настоящие здоровые отношения, где люди, конечно, ругаются, но обдумывают, что сделали неправильно и возвращаются, чтобы извиниться. И опять же никакого детского/подросткового поведения, а только осознанное взрослое, за которым приятно наблюдать.

Как и в отзыве на первую часть хочется отметить ещё один момент. Эта тема уже поднималась и тогда её также объяснял Риз, что доказывает мою уверенность, что он не просто зелёный флаг, а целый зелёный лес. Где-то ближе к финалу, Аксель выходит из себя и собирается проучить бывшего героини, но сталкивается с Ризом и тот проводит ему краткий экскурс в то, как правильно быть осознанным взрослым. Без цитат, своими словами: "Ты, конечно, можешь набить ему морду и возможно, даже почувствуешь себя лучше, но это добавит только больше проблем Наде. Куда лучше будет, если ты вернёшься к ней и обнимешь". Не, вся эта месть в дарк-романах шикарна, не спорю, но когда ты пишешь обычную романтику, правильное поведение восхищает.

[Kinga · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐
Men need to take notes from Axel fucking Rakestraw ✍️📝✍️ He is the epitome of the best book boyfriend. Even in his fuckboy era, he is still respectful and a good guy. And his filthy mouth and the way he calls Nadia "darlin'" is just icing on the cake.

I will admit I struggle with this book mainly because of the FMC and it is the reason for the 3.5 star rating. I am the first to be annoyed with the typical romance book tropes of "manwhore hero redeemed by pure, virginal, shy, quirky heroine" so I usually love books that empower the women to own their sexuality. However, in this book, Nadia had less than zero self-respect, and honestly did not even feel like she made too much progress. She says at one point, even after the mess with Brent and CJ, she still would have gotten back with them. Like girl, come on. And at 94%, when Axel is asking her if she is okay with him trying to go to the NHL, she is still talking about how much " all I ever wanted was to be a WAG" Direct quote ffs. There's not really any discussion of what she actually wants to do with her degree or to be anything other than a WAG. Maybe it is just me being extra sensitive as I do have first hand experience with being a sports management major and being one of the only girls in classes full of athletes, but I know there can be girls who are the "jersey chasers" and "puck bunnies" and still have some respect for themselves. I understand that was part of her character flaws, and the theme of the book, but IMO Nadia could have been written a little better.

Axel on the other hand is top-tier book boyfriend. He was constantly trying to be a "safe space" for Nadia, and trying his best to unteach her all the negative things she's learned from her interactions with guys in the past. Even before they get together, he truly cares and respects her. And I do appreciate the contrast of showing the hypocrisy of both of them being very promiscuous, but while Nadia is vilified, Axel is almost praised and celebrated as the "life of the party". I do think they author did a good job of portraying that.

Overall, even though the FMC was a personal pet peeve of mine, the book was great. Well written and you could feel the chemistry between the characters. I would suggest reading book 1 Faking it with the Forward first, because even though it is a stand-alone, I do think you get insights into the characters that are beneficial. Now I cannot wait until book 3 of this series comes out.

[Kedeisha Delancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
Liked this just a little more than the first book BECAUSE MR AXEL??? Mr Tattoo her nick name on him & room 110 because he wants to remember it forever???? Yeah my FAV🤭🥹!!!!! You did your big one with him Angel!

“Seeing your face up in the stands makes the game so much better. It makes the win so much sweeter.”
-Axel 🥹

“You’re the only man that’s ever given me a choice, Axel. That’s provided a place of safety, while making me feel wanted. This is what I want. You’re what I want.” -Nadia 🥹

When we were introduced the Axel in the first book I just knew he was going to be #1! When he helped Reese rescue Nadia I knew their book was next I just felt some short of connection from them idk!

Axel, goalie for the schools hockey team & reformed “jersey chaser” Nadia make a pack of “No more fuck ups” together & their helping each other stay on the straight & narrow road. Axel needs to focus on his hockey career & after Nadia’s incident she has sworn off athletes. Until now?🤭 After a one night hood up they promised it never happen & they will never bring it up again.
He was so protective over her, ready to fight at every second lol. But I’m glade he grew up & realized she needed him with her more than just fighting.

The banter, the communication, the character growth, idk where to start with that was better for me. Who would’ve thought that two people who have never bin in a relationship made the perfect relationship. I really loved how they talked about everything & communicated well. The whole safe space aspect? I loved it. They protected each other & came to each other’s rescue when needed. “I want to slay your dragons, and eat your food, and fuck you senseless.”

Honorable mention of the tattoo parlor! “Things have been pretty shitty lately, with the probation and stuff. You’re the only good thing that’s left a mark.” & That’s why he got her nick name “T” on his because side because “It stands for what I think of every time you walk in the room. Trouble” 🤭


Quotes:

“Your mouth, it’s filthy, you know that?” -Nadia
“Yeah, well, welcome to sex with a preacher’s boy.” -Axel🤭

“You are worth so much more than you understand. Those assholes were lucky you even gave them the time of day.” -Axel

“Commitment isn’t a problem for me, T. I’ve just never found the girl I’ve wanted to slow down for.” -Axel🤭

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5 stars)

This Wittmore U Hockey series is really cute and enjoyable so far- and I was excited to dive into the second book in the series after we meet our couple as friends of the main charaters in the first book, and I just knew their story would be good. And I really enjoyed it.

The premise of this was great, and Angel always writes such wonderful chemistry. Sexy but sweet....it's hard to wrap my head around it compared to some of her darker books LOL, but it's fun to see her range.

Axel Rakestraw is legit the most delicious. He's got player swagger with the heart of gold- he's respectful and kind and just a NICE guy, and so swoony. Not to mention the dirty mouth. He's this beautiful landing space for Nadia, tries to build her up after some bad experiences she'd had, and he's so protective of her. And those he falls first vibes are extra delicious.

I struggled a bit with Nadia's character arc. Not because of her past choices that catalyze this story, but more so because I feel like she didn't seem to grow up at all. Never seems to find a journey more substantive than being a hockey player's girl. Thematically part of this book is about the double standard between the "wild" side of both Nadia and Axel- and how Nadia's choices are villainized while the hockey guys are glorified. I loved that theme, and I loved seeing a heroine who is sexually secure. But, then it felt odd that she didn't get much of a storyline outside this part of her. SO I just wanted a bit more to her, I think. From the disrespect she experiences as a "jersey chaser" to a WAG.

I love the cast of characters in this world- and I love the romantic and familial chemistry Angel always creates. Both in her dark books, her why choose, and even in her lighter romances, she's so adept at creating strong connections between individual characters and the found family dynamic. And I did really love Nadia and Axel together- their sexy but sweet, and really seem to get each other and understand one another. And again Axel is just a dreamy book boyfriend. Another great visit to Wittmore U.

-bad boy goalie
-former jersey chaser
-college
-relationship pact
-protective hero
-he falls first

[Alicia S · Rating 5 out of 5]

he wins


🩵 Guarded By The Goalie 🩵 (Book 2 in the Wittmore U Hockey series) by Angel Lawson

𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:

🩵 Let me tell you, this book wrecked me in the best possible way. I laughed, I cried, I had a stomach ache from all the emotional rollercoasters, and I loved every second of it.

🩵 The way Angel Lawson created such raw, vulnerable characters had me completely hooked. I found myself repeatedly wiping away tears - five times, to be exact - because of how deeply I connected with these characters.

It took me back to emotions I thought I had left behind, and honestly, I’m not mad about it.

🩵 The story centers on Nadia and Axel, two characters whose journeys of healing and self-discovery intertwined in such a beautiful way.

Nadia’s struggle to be seen, heard, and valued for who she is - without being reduced to what she can give - is something that hit so close to home. I felt for her in every scene, and my heart ached for her like I was reading my own diary from ages 15 to 18.

Her vulnerability, strength, and desire for safety and love are feelings many of us can relate to.

🩵 Then there’s Axel. Axel, Axel, Axel—he’s everything I love in an MMC. From his tattoos that symbolize important moments in his life to his tough exterior, Axel is unapologetically himself. But the thing that made him truly swoon-worthy was how he treated Nadia.

He was her protector, her advocate, her safe space. He made her feel valued and loved in the truest sense, and that kind of unwavering devotion is what every woman deserves. Axel had me hooked from the very first chapter.

🩵 This book is a beautiful exploration of the complexities of love, healing, and personal growth, but it doesn’t shy away from tough subjects. It touches on real-world issues that could be a gut punch, and it’s crucial to read the author’s note for the necessary emotional damage that could take place (in the best way).

This is a powerful story that’s going to stay with you long after you finish it. If you're looking for a romance that’ll make you feel every emotion possible, with the reformed Fck Boy and The Reformed Jersey Chaser getting together - this is your next read.

But seriously, be ready for the emotional rollercoaster. It’s worth it, though.


📖

[Sharon McMaster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend reading Book 1 prior to this one because there is some character development and backstory that helps to understand everything in this book better. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and can’t wait for the next book out to continue on with the characters.

Going into her Senior year, Nadia Beckwith is known around campus as a jersey chaser among all the athletes. Nadia never says no when it comes to the athletes and puts herself in bad situations where they take advantage of her. So, when there is an incident with some of the football players, they make sure everyone knows she is “blacklisted” among the athletes. Nadia tries to put her head down and change her reputation but also to stop making stupid choices when it comes to guys and hookups.

Tattooed, pierced, bad boy Axel Rakestraw is Wittmore’s star goalie and follows the YOLO rule living his life like every day is his last with partying and women. It’s his Senior year and he knows after he graduates, he must return home so he is going to live his best life. Unfortunately for him after 1 time he lets loose, he is random drug tested and put on probation when it comes back positive. Axel knows he needs to buckle down and focus on hockey because as a goalie it’s his job to protect everyone.

Since Nadia and Axel’s best friends are dating, the two end up hanging out and making a pact with each other. “To new identities,” he declares, holding up his glass. “To no more epic f-ups. No more partying for me. No more athletes for you. Not until we get it together.” Nadia and Axel become a safe space for each other and to hold the other accountable but the chemistry between the two of them is hard for both of them to ignore. I loved watching both of the characters open up more to each other but also the growth that they both go through gives all the warm and fuzzy feelings. When they finally cave into to their feelings, the heat is off the charts and I love a dirty talking dominant man but seeing how broken Nadia was and the care that Axel has with her just makes me swoon that much harder.

[Sharlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story line- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters - beautifully written and become your friends
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Book one, Faking it With The Forward, isn’t necessary, but does fill in some blanks of the backstory and introduction of characters.

This book had me from the start. I mean who can’t love a book when the FMC gets a new hair cut that includes bangs! But, as we quickly learn, change must come from within, not just surface level, and can’t be done overnight. With both bad-boy Axel (all tatted up and pierced MMC) and jersey-chaser Nadia, we get a story that proves those two learn this lesson fairly quickly, and not everyone is quick to forgive and definitely not forget. We see where choices have consequences, and sometimes those consequences are long-lasting, with one’s reputation having the biggest impact. Luckily, these two have a great support system with Reese, Axel’s best friend/captain of the team, and Twyler, Nadia’s best friend/prior hockey team intern trainer turned girlfriend of Reese, even if they do keep their “no epic-f*ck ups” pact a secret from their best friends.

The book is an easy to read, easy to follow story of finding truth within yourself, learning that your value is not measured in how others perceive you, figuring out past choices do not have to define you, and finding your voice and strength to say enough is enough. Both Axel and Nadia find their voice and their strength within, and it’s a beautiful thing.

I am a “gets bored easily when a book is too wordy (yes, I am aware of how that sounds), but with this book I was never bored wishing it would just hurry up. The slow-ish burn was just enough to keep you waiting, but was a definite necessity to get the point of the story across. It does touch on some triggers, so read the warnings, but in the end strength prevails.

[Thesmuttybookwife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angel Lawson’s "Guarded by the Goalie" is a captivating romance that had me completely swooning over the leading man, AXEL. Axel is a modern romance hero with his mix of emotional openness and charming assertiveness. He's like a golden retriever with a bit of an alpha male edge. His straightforward and provocative nature makes him irresistibly appealing. Lawson did an amazing job crafting Axel's unique blend of sweetness and boldness, making me wish for more men like him in real life.

Nadia’s character is rock solid. Once the center of attention as a popular jersey chaser, she finds herself ostracized by a scandal. Her journey is filled with raw emotion and uncertainty about her future. When her path crosses with Axel’s, their relationship blossoms, giving her life new direction and purpose.

The story dives deep into emotional growth and healing, creating an intense and sometimes overwhelming experience. It's a narrative that can feel very personal, inviting readers to confront their inner demons and reflect on their own decisions.

This slow-burn romance tackles themes of self-acceptance, the importance of a supportive inner circle, and breaking down the walls we build to protect ourselves. I highly recommend reading Book 1 first, as it provides crucial character development and backstory that enhance the understanding of this book.

I’ve read many of Lawson’s books and her writing is amazing. I loved reading this book and seeing her continue to hone and perfect her craft. Angel Lawson writes with such depth and beauty that you can’t help but get lost in the worlds she creates. This book was beautiful, and I LOVED everything about it!

Overall, "Guarded by the Goalie" is a wonderful read that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

[rogue_reads_romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an MF romance and is book two of the Wittmore U Hockey series. This was a 5 star, 3 spice read for me! This book was everything that I want from a reformed playboy. The MMC is a total cinnamon roll for the FMC. He makes the FMC feel good in all the right ways and makes her feel loved. These two are one of my new favorite fictional couples! Tropes include: college hockey romance, secret relationship, he falls first, reformed playboy x blacklisted jersey chaser, goalie x off-limits best friend, trauma/healing, open door spice, protective MMC, “Who did this to you?”, don’t even look at her, dual POV, HEA.

College just didn’t turn out how it was supposed to for Nadia (FMC). She wanted to move North and reinvent herself; leave her past behind. At the moment, aside from her best friend, she’s got nothing to show for her four years at Wittmore U. She’s happy to lay low after what happened with the golden boy of the football team. Except he won’t leave her alone. She wasn’t expecting the gorgeous, tattooed giant that is the hockey team’s goalie to come to her rescue…again. He has seen her in her darkest hour. Can she face him now?

The clock is ticking for Axel (MMC). In just a few short months, he’s got a big decision to make. Does he even have a choice? Fall in line with his father’s demands or never see his family again. Not to mention that partying was jeopardizing the hockey career he has a shot at. He’s about to get the good luck charm he wasn’t expecting. Where did she come from? It looks like he’s got something or someone else to factor into his future equation.

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Axel Rakestraw is more than most girls can handle with all those muscles, height, and tattoos alone. Then you add his charisma to most people, especially women, and things get mucky. Axel is the goalie for the Wittmore U hockey team, and his best friend, Reese, is the team's captain. He meets his future girl through Reese’s girlfriend Twyler.

Nadia Beckwith whom he calls “T” for is trouble. But Nadia is known on campus by all the athletes as a Jersey chaser. She would bed any of them in order of one day becoming a WAG. However, it is much more likely that she would only be there agreed-upon side piece. Only so their wives wouldn’t have to be subjected to their depraved sexual exploits.

Although an incident had happened where the quarterback of the football team, Brent, was a guy Nadia had been jonesing over for a long time. He had orchestrated with his friend, to roofie her. They then recorded her having sex with CJ then sold the video on a site to make money off it. When Twyler, Reese, and Axel find out they pledge to watch out for her.

However, when Axel gets put on probation and needs to stop drinking he agrees to hang out with Nadia at the bar. She realized the night Axel talked about his need not to drink that when he saved her in the hallway at the party from Brent just how scared she had been of Brent. But she also had forgotten the agreement that had been presented to Brent when he was caught the night they found him and CJ filming the video. Either he destroyed the video or she would stay the hell away from Nadia, or she would go to the police. Such a good book.