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Orlando Storm #1
Hot Shot
An NHL rookie.
A baker not looking for love.
And the secret that could break them.
Moving to Orlando was supposed to be about starting over. Figuring out a new life plan. One that didn't involve a relationship.
Then my car broke down and Hunter Rhodes showed up. He walked right up to my car, saw me climbing into the back seat, and caught a glimpse of my panties.
I promised myself I'd never fall for a professional athlete again, especially a hockey player.
But I can't resist Hunter’s sweet and caring nature or the fact that he's effortlessly sexy. It messes with my heart and my willpower. Before I know it, I'm considering stepping out of the kitchen and taking a chance.
Even if I have a secret that could ruin us.
Sports, Strangers to Friends to Lovers. Intended for audiences 18+, contains mention of death of family members, difficult family relationships/dynamics, and parental abandonment.
Scroll up and click ‘buy now’ to get your hands on Hot Shot today!
A baker not looking for love.
And the secret that could break them.
Moving to Orlando was supposed to be about starting over. Figuring out a new life plan. One that didn't involve a relationship.
Then my car broke down and Hunter Rhodes showed up. He walked right up to my car, saw me climbing into the back seat, and caught a glimpse of my panties.
I promised myself I'd never fall for a professional athlete again, especially a hockey player.
But I can't resist Hunter’s sweet and caring nature or the fact that he's effortlessly sexy. It messes with my heart and my willpower. Before I know it, I'm considering stepping out of the kitchen and taking a chance.
Even if I have a secret that could ruin us.
Sports, Strangers to Friends to Lovers. Intended for audiences 18+, contains mention of death of family members, difficult family relationships/dynamics, and parental abandonment.
Scroll up and click ‘buy now’ to get your hands on Hot Shot today!
239 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2023
About the author
Marissa James
9 books56 followersMarissa is a contemporary romance author who loves writing relatable characters and happily ever afters. An avid hockey fan you can usually find her in front of the TV during the season cheering on her favorite NHL team. When not watching hockey you can find her in her garden, reading a novel, watching reruns of Seinfeld or completing a puzzle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 25, 2023
This is a great debut novel by Marissa James. It is a quick, hockey romance between a rookie NHL player and a baker. This book was a low angst, sweet, and a great introduction to the Orlando Storm hockey team.
Madison has moved to Orlando, Florida to start fresh and be closer to her aunt after she had some issues with her career and love life. This had such a funny meet cute when Madison accidentally flashed Hunter while he offered to help her jump start the battery for her car. Hunter was immediately interested in her but did not ask for her number. Luckily, they see each other again when he comes into the bakery she works at. He did not let this opportunity pass him by, and he got her number. They start texting and eventually go on a coffee date. However, Madison friend zoned him when she found out he is a pro NHL hockey player. She does not want to date a hockey player...for reasons, and they decide to just be friends.
This was a slower burn since Madison was trying so hard to keep him in the friend zone. Their attraction and amazing friendship led to deeper feelings, and they could not deny their chemistry. Hunter was such an amazing cinnamon roll hero, and he definitely fell first. He was really mature and thoughtful even though he was 6 years younger than the heroine. I did have issues with Madison's lack of honesty and communication, especially when she is older and she had many opportunities to open up. I also thought the end felt a little rushed, but I liked where the epilogue left us.
I enjoyed this debut book, and I think she did a great job setting up the series and introducing the characters. I am very interested in reading Brody's romance. Hopefully, it's next.
Side Note: I thought I already guessed the twist early on in the book, but I was completely wrong. It was nice to be surprised.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Thank you to the author for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Madison has moved to Orlando, Florida to start fresh and be closer to her aunt after she had some issues with her career and love life. This had such a funny meet cute when Madison accidentally flashed Hunter while he offered to help her jump start the battery for her car. Hunter was immediately interested in her but did not ask for her number. Luckily, they see each other again when he comes into the bakery she works at. He did not let this opportunity pass him by, and he got her number. They start texting and eventually go on a coffee date. However, Madison friend zoned him when she found out he is a pro NHL hockey player. She does not want to date a hockey player...for reasons, and they decide to just be friends.
This was a slower burn since Madison was trying so hard to keep him in the friend zone. Their attraction and amazing friendship led to deeper feelings, and they could not deny their chemistry. Hunter was such an amazing cinnamon roll hero, and he definitely fell first. He was really mature and thoughtful even though he was 6 years younger than the heroine. I did have issues with Madison's lack of honesty and communication, especially when she is older and she had many opportunities to open up. I also thought the end felt a little rushed, but I liked where the epilogue left us.
I enjoyed this debut book, and I think she did a great job setting up the series and introducing the characters. I am very interested in reading Brody's romance. Hopefully, it's next.
Side Note: I thought I already guessed the twist early on in the book, but I was completely wrong. It was nice to be surprised.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Thank you to the author for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
-Strangers to friends to lovers
-Hockey MMC
-Baker FMC
-Steamy
-Twists and turns
-Cinnamon Roll Hero
-He falls first
I had the pleasure of beta reading this debut novel and I’m so happy to be apart of this journey! This book was such a fun and sweet read! Hunter and Madison have an amazing meet cute that had me laughing! And I loved the way they were brought together! I’m usually not a friends to lovers fan but them being NEW friends made this work perfectly for me! I love seeing getting to know eachother and trying to resist eachother!
This book has a great set of side characters that I can’t for future books for! The pacing was perfect and their natural progression from friends to more felt natural for me!
The twists and turns in this book were also such a fun addition that I don’t see often in contemporary romance books! Overall I had so much fun reading this one and I can’t wait for more!
-Strangers to friends to lovers
-Hockey MMC
-Baker FMC
-Steamy
-Twists and turns
-Cinnamon Roll Hero
-He falls first
I had the pleasure of beta reading this debut novel and I’m so happy to be apart of this journey! This book was such a fun and sweet read! Hunter and Madison have an amazing meet cute that had me laughing! And I loved the way they were brought together! I’m usually not a friends to lovers fan but them being NEW friends made this work perfectly for me! I love seeing getting to know eachother and trying to resist eachother!
This book has a great set of side characters that I can’t for future books for! The pacing was perfect and their natural progression from friends to more felt natural for me!
The twists and turns in this book were also such a fun addition that I don’t see often in contemporary romance books! Overall I had so much fun reading this one and I can’t wait for more!
April 4, 2026
Honestly, I have been in a book funk for about two months and this was the perfect cheesy romance to get me back into reading. I’m also never a big romance genre type of person I’m always into world building and fantasy but this was just a very nice cozy read. As in Orlando local I felt like I could picture everything that happened in this book perfectly and it was amazing to be able to enjoy a story set where I live.
October 25, 2023
A sweet hockey romance. I always love when the FMC is a baker so that drew me in from the beginning. I thought their meet cute was unique in a fun way and was a great hook. I enjoyed reading about both characters flaws and watching them grow throughout the story. A must read if you love faster paced sports romances. ❤️
August 27, 2024
Ok I am so sorry but I was 4 CHAPTERS in and I already wanted to DNF, I pushed through it by the power of hatred I guess.
Some parts were very cringe, it was giving bad wattpad and I am so so sad bc ITS HOCKEY ROMANCE and most ppl enjoyed it. I already have the 2nd one so might as well give it a try
2.25⭐️🙃
Some parts were very cringe, it was giving bad wattpad and I am so so sad bc ITS HOCKEY ROMANCE and most ppl enjoyed it. I already have the 2nd one so might as well give it a try
2.25⭐️🙃
March 22, 2025
This is a cute debut novel. It has great bones but needs fleshing out better and I think a really good thorough edit would improve it massively.
October 26, 2023
Before I begin, I would like to thank Marissa James for sending me an arc of her debut novel - Hot Shot.
I became aware of this book through instagram, when a favorite bookstagrammer of mine - go follow romantically inclined for some great bookish content - opened up a post where authors could post what their books were about, and interested parties could comment and say they were interested in an arc.
When I saw this was a hockey romance, it sparked my interest.
I love sports romances.
Funny, considering I hate watching sports.
In romance, however, they are winners.
While there were some things I enjoyed in Hot Shot, there were other things I didn't. While I liked the general concept of the story, I didn't connect with it fully. I felt like there were parts that could have been cut out, and replaced with more content of these two getting to know one another on a deeper level. More emphasis on building chemistry between them, because I just didn't feel that.
But my biggest issue with Hot Shot was that I just couldn't connect with Madison.
Frankly, she made me a little mad.
If it wasn't how she dealt with her father, it was her reaction to her best friends - or ex-best friends - feelings that set me off.
How to say this without spoiling anything ...
It's okay to distance yourself from a friend because they're toxic, or they don't treat you the way that a friend should.
It's not okay to be angry and ignore someone because they don't share the same feelings as you.
It's okay to distance yourself, of course. But to do so without saying you need time to get over the hurt of unrequited love, is terrible.
Punishing someone because they don't have romantic feelings for you sucks.
Having other people call that person a terrible person because they don't have those feelings really sucks.
So for those reasons, I just didn't like her character.
My other issue with the book, is the miscommunication trope. Some people like it - I'm not one of them. I can usually get over it if its a realistic miscommunication, and it doesn't take over the whole book, but that wasn't the case here. There were a lot of miscommunications, on both sides, and it was frustrating.
There were things I liked. I liked Hunter. I enjoy when I read a sports romance where the male character isn't your typical cocky athlete. I liked that he was shy, and unsure of himself. I liked the overall arc of how they met, their friendship, and them falling for one another. I think there could have been more emphasis on the friendship. I think it could have been a larger portion of their relationship, so as the reader, we could get that friendly chemistry established first. I think it would have added a lot more angst and longing if Hunter knew who Madison was.
This will be hard to explain without spoiling. I loved how Marissa made me think that two off-screen characters were the same person, only to have that not be the case. Very sneaky.
While Hot Shot was not for me, I know there are other readers who will enjoy this book. It has a sweet romance, and Hunter is loveable. And hey, its a hockey romance. Who wouldn't give a hockey romance a shot? Hot Shot is available now.
I became aware of this book through instagram, when a favorite bookstagrammer of mine - go follow romantically inclined for some great bookish content - opened up a post where authors could post what their books were about, and interested parties could comment and say they were interested in an arc.
When I saw this was a hockey romance, it sparked my interest.
I love sports romances.
Funny, considering I hate watching sports.
In romance, however, they are winners.
While there were some things I enjoyed in Hot Shot, there were other things I didn't. While I liked the general concept of the story, I didn't connect with it fully. I felt like there were parts that could have been cut out, and replaced with more content of these two getting to know one another on a deeper level. More emphasis on building chemistry between them, because I just didn't feel that.
But my biggest issue with Hot Shot was that I just couldn't connect with Madison.
Frankly, she made me a little mad.
If it wasn't how she dealt with her father, it was her reaction to her best friends - or ex-best friends - feelings that set me off.
How to say this without spoiling anything ...
It's okay to distance yourself from a friend because they're toxic, or they don't treat you the way that a friend should.
It's not okay to be angry and ignore someone because they don't share the same feelings as you.
It's okay to distance yourself, of course. But to do so without saying you need time to get over the hurt of unrequited love, is terrible.
Punishing someone because they don't have romantic feelings for you sucks.
Having other people call that person a terrible person because they don't have those feelings really sucks.
So for those reasons, I just didn't like her character.
My other issue with the book, is the miscommunication trope. Some people like it - I'm not one of them. I can usually get over it if its a realistic miscommunication, and it doesn't take over the whole book, but that wasn't the case here. There were a lot of miscommunications, on both sides, and it was frustrating.
There were things I liked. I liked Hunter. I enjoy when I read a sports romance where the male character isn't your typical cocky athlete. I liked that he was shy, and unsure of himself. I liked the overall arc of how they met, their friendship, and them falling for one another. I think there could have been more emphasis on the friendship. I think it could have been a larger portion of their relationship, so as the reader, we could get that friendly chemistry established first. I think it would have added a lot more angst and longing if Hunter knew who Madison was.
This will be hard to explain without spoiling. I loved how Marissa made me think that two off-screen characters were the same person, only to have that not be the case. Very sneaky.
While Hot Shot was not for me, I know there are other readers who will enjoy this book. It has a sweet romance, and Hunter is loveable. And hey, its a hockey romance. Who wouldn't give a hockey romance a shot? Hot Shot is available now.
February 23, 2025
Madison & Hunter for life. This story had just about everything I needed in the moment. It was a slow burn, COACHES DAUGHTER (but he didn’t know most of the time), spicy spice and all the sweet moments.
Madison moved to Orlando recently and found herself with a car that wouldn’t start. In comes Hunter (the newest rookie to the Storm) to help her. (This was such a fun meet cute moment!). From that moment on, he’s hooked, but Madison quickly put him in the friends zone.
4.5⭐️
2.5🌶️
I loved watching them grow closer and finally realized they didn’t want to be just friends anymore. Also thought I had the little twist figured out but I was so wrong.
I’ve already read book 2 so now I’m super excited for book 3 hopefully this summer! Also thank you to Marissa for setting aside an extra man cover she had for me when I ordered a few signed copies 🫶.
Madison moved to Orlando recently and found herself with a car that wouldn’t start. In comes Hunter (the newest rookie to the Storm) to help her. (This was such a fun meet cute moment!). From that moment on, he’s hooked, but Madison quickly put him in the friends zone.
4.5⭐️
2.5🌶️
I loved watching them grow closer and finally realized they didn’t want to be just friends anymore. Also thought I had the little twist figured out but I was so wrong.
I’ve already read book 2 so now I’m super excited for book 3 hopefully this summer! Also thank you to Marissa for setting aside an extra man cover she had for me when I ordered a few signed copies 🫶.
August 23, 2024
“I’ve spent so long wanting someone to choose me, and here it’s finally happening in a way that I never expected.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Marissa James debut novel was fun, sweet, and spicy. This book will have you falling for Orlando Storm hockey rookie Hunter Rhodes. He is addictively sweet as the cakes Madison bakes, but spicy in the bedroom. I enjoyed watching this couple’s romance blossom from friends to lovers. Hunter and Madison had obstacles they needed to overcome in order for their relationship to bloom. Marissa also added some twist that were unexpected and gave us so many heartfelt moments. I can’t wait to see what else she may have in store for us as this series continues. Loved this book heartfelt book.
An NHL rookie. A baker not looking for love. And the secret that could break them. Moving to Orlando was supposed to be about starting over. Figuring out a new life plan. One that didn't involve a relationship. Then my car broke down and Hunter Rhodes showed up. He walked right up to my car, saw me climbing into the back seat, and caught a glimpse of my panties. I promised myself I'd never fall for a professional athlete again, especially a hockey player. But I can't resist Hunter’s sweet and caring nature or the fact that he's effortlessly sexy. It messes with my heart and my willpower. Before I know it, I'm considering stepping out of the kitchen and taking a chance. Even if I have a secret that could ruin us.
Tropes: hockey, cinnamon roll MMC, coach daughter, found family, he fall first.
Thank you so much Marissa for your awesome book 🫶🏼
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Marissa James debut novel was fun, sweet, and spicy. This book will have you falling for Orlando Storm hockey rookie Hunter Rhodes. He is addictively sweet as the cakes Madison bakes, but spicy in the bedroom. I enjoyed watching this couple’s romance blossom from friends to lovers. Hunter and Madison had obstacles they needed to overcome in order for their relationship to bloom. Marissa also added some twist that were unexpected and gave us so many heartfelt moments. I can’t wait to see what else she may have in store for us as this series continues. Loved this book heartfelt book.
An NHL rookie. A baker not looking for love. And the secret that could break them. Moving to Orlando was supposed to be about starting over. Figuring out a new life plan. One that didn't involve a relationship. Then my car broke down and Hunter Rhodes showed up. He walked right up to my car, saw me climbing into the back seat, and caught a glimpse of my panties. I promised myself I'd never fall for a professional athlete again, especially a hockey player. But I can't resist Hunter’s sweet and caring nature or the fact that he's effortlessly sexy. It messes with my heart and my willpower. Before I know it, I'm considering stepping out of the kitchen and taking a chance. Even if I have a secret that could ruin us.
Tropes: hockey, cinnamon roll MMC, coach daughter, found family, he fall first.
Thank you so much Marissa for your awesome book 🫶🏼
January 1, 2026
Sweet Like Frosting, Sharp Like a Slapshot—Moving to Orlando was supposed to be a reset. No relationships. No professional athletes. And definitely no hockey players. So when her car breaks down and NHL rookie Hunter Rhodes literally walks into her life—and gets an accidental panty preview—our FMC’s “fresh start” plan doesn’t just crack, it crumbles.
This book gave me all the warm, fizzy, rom-com feelings while still grounding itself in real emotional stakes. She’s a baker rebuilding her life, balancing grief, parental abandonment, and the fear of choosing wrong again. He’s a rookie hockey player with heart-on-his-sleeve energy and a sweetness that sneaks up on you.
Their dynamic is so easy to fall into:
🧁 baker x athlete
🏒 sports romance with heart
👩❤️👨 strangers → friends → lovers
⏳ reverse age gap (younger MMC/older FMC)
💔 grief and healing without glossing over it
What hooked me was how gentle this story is. Hunter is not your typical “cocky jock” archetype—he’s thoughtful, observant, a little dorky in the best way, and somehow still effortlessly sexy. He’s the kind of MMC who asks what you need, listens to the answer, and actually follows through. A golden retriever in skates, honestly.
And our FMC? She’s relatable in the most human way. She’s scared to hope again, scared to trust herself, scared to break something new after everything she’s already lost. But she still shows up. Still bakes. Still tries. The courage in that made me emotional in a way I didn’t expect.
The secret she’s keeping isn’t there for drama—it’s there for stakes. It made me feel protective of her and anxious for them both, because the connection they have feels like something that could last if they’re brave enough to choose it.
This book reminded me why I love romance so much:
✨ low-key swoony moments
✨ hand-to-heart vulnerability
✨ little gestures that mean everything
It’s the kind of story that feels like a warm kitchen at midnight—sugar in the air, honesty simmering, and a man in your corner who really sees you.
If you love:
🍰 bakery settings
🏒 rookie energy
❤️🩹 healing arcs that respect the reader
🔥 tension without cruelty
…add this to your TBR immediately.
This book gave me all the warm, fizzy, rom-com feelings while still grounding itself in real emotional stakes. She’s a baker rebuilding her life, balancing grief, parental abandonment, and the fear of choosing wrong again. He’s a rookie hockey player with heart-on-his-sleeve energy and a sweetness that sneaks up on you.
Their dynamic is so easy to fall into:
🧁 baker x athlete
🏒 sports romance with heart
👩❤️👨 strangers → friends → lovers
⏳ reverse age gap (younger MMC/older FMC)
💔 grief and healing without glossing over it
What hooked me was how gentle this story is. Hunter is not your typical “cocky jock” archetype—he’s thoughtful, observant, a little dorky in the best way, and somehow still effortlessly sexy. He’s the kind of MMC who asks what you need, listens to the answer, and actually follows through. A golden retriever in skates, honestly.
And our FMC? She’s relatable in the most human way. She’s scared to hope again, scared to trust herself, scared to break something new after everything she’s already lost. But she still shows up. Still bakes. Still tries. The courage in that made me emotional in a way I didn’t expect.
The secret she’s keeping isn’t there for drama—it’s there for stakes. It made me feel protective of her and anxious for them both, because the connection they have feels like something that could last if they’re brave enough to choose it.
This book reminded me why I love romance so much:
✨ low-key swoony moments
✨ hand-to-heart vulnerability
✨ little gestures that mean everything
It’s the kind of story that feels like a warm kitchen at midnight—sugar in the air, honesty simmering, and a man in your corner who really sees you.
If you love:
🍰 bakery settings
🏒 rookie energy
❤️🩹 healing arcs that respect the reader
🔥 tension without cruelty
…add this to your TBR immediately.
October 18, 2023
✨️ Hot Shot by Marissa James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.25 stars
To start, thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review. I am always honored to read someone's work in advance of release!
Meet the MCs:
🍰Madison (FMC): Baker, new to Orlando (setting), kind
🏒Hunter (MMC): Pro-hockey player, rookie unsure about his career, understanding
General Thoughts:
This book is an amazing short and spicy read to pick up for when you are in a slump. It featured sweet and lovable characters along with a spicy and interesting plot. I love a good hockey romance and this did not disappoint!
Tropes:
🩵Pro-hockey romance
🩵FMC is 30, MMC is 24
🩵Strangers to friends to lovers
🩵He falls first and he falls harder
What I loved:
😇The characters both had their faults but they grew together.
😇Sometimes not all book relationships are the healthiest, but Hunter and Madison depicted a supportive and loving couple that I enjoyed reading about!
😇The characters felt realistic. Hunter was a pro-hockey player but he was not without his doubts, he is a rookie and is unsure of his future. I loved how we saw a side of a hockey focused MMC that doesn’t depict them as the star of the league and how it shows a realistic character. Madison is a baker that has had a tough year and we can see how this affected her as well as how she grew from it. I appreciated how while we got to see a FMC whose life wasn’t perfect she was still happy and empowered nonetheless.
My not faves: (and I would say these are ME issues, and didn't get in the way of the story.)
💐My only true issue with the book was that sometimes the plot felt almost to fast paced. It is understandable as this is not the longest book, but sometimes I wished we got to see more of the characters. But really it did not hurt the story as it was set a fast (but no to fast) pace.
Spice: 🌶🌶 2.5
Thanks again for the opportunity to offer my honest review in exchange for an advance copy! 🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.25 stars
To start, thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review. I am always honored to read someone's work in advance of release!
Meet the MCs:
🍰Madison (FMC): Baker, new to Orlando (setting), kind
🏒Hunter (MMC): Pro-hockey player, rookie unsure about his career, understanding
General Thoughts:
This book is an amazing short and spicy read to pick up for when you are in a slump. It featured sweet and lovable characters along with a spicy and interesting plot. I love a good hockey romance and this did not disappoint!
Tropes:
🩵Pro-hockey romance
🩵FMC is 30, MMC is 24
🩵Strangers to friends to lovers
🩵He falls first and he falls harder
What I loved:
😇The characters both had their faults but they grew together.
😇Sometimes not all book relationships are the healthiest, but Hunter and Madison depicted a supportive and loving couple that I enjoyed reading about!
😇The characters felt realistic. Hunter was a pro-hockey player but he was not without his doubts, he is a rookie and is unsure of his future. I loved how we saw a side of a hockey focused MMC that doesn’t depict them as the star of the league and how it shows a realistic character. Madison is a baker that has had a tough year and we can see how this affected her as well as how she grew from it. I appreciated how while we got to see a FMC whose life wasn’t perfect she was still happy and empowered nonetheless.
My not faves: (and I would say these are ME issues, and didn't get in the way of the story.)
💐My only true issue with the book was that sometimes the plot felt almost to fast paced. It is understandable as this is not the longest book, but sometimes I wished we got to see more of the characters. But really it did not hurt the story as it was set a fast (but no to fast) pace.
Spice: 🌶🌶 2.5
Thanks again for the opportunity to offer my honest review in exchange for an advance copy! 🫶
November 6, 2023
🌟- 5 / 🌶- 3
Dual POV & HEA
🇷🇪🇻🇮🇪🇼
Hot Shot is the first book in the Orlando Storm series.
Hunter is the rookie player on the Orlando Storm hockey team. Unsure of his worth to his team and an overall humble attitude, his world is turned upside down when he happens upon Madison while she’s having car troubles. He has been one of my favorite MCs for a long time. He came off as a realistic character and was instantly loveable.
Madison, having recently moved to Orlando to live with her aunt after a string of bad luck with love and her career as a baker. Juggling her job, getting to know father, who happens to be the Storm’s head coach – for the first time in her life. After car troubles have her flashing a very cute good samaritan, she never expects that her life will change so much.
I loved how Hunter and Madison both can’t keep eachother off their minds after meeting. This really is an amazing slow burn friends to lovers story. The way they take the time to really get to know each other (or so you think…) before finally giving into their desires to be a couple was refreshing. It wasn't a will they won't they situation and I appreciated that for a change. Once they are together, of course the drama sets in, but it is so well done that you are always going “WHAT?!” Madison did a great job leading her audience on, so kudos to her!
The book isn't overly spicy but has great chemistry between the sheets for the MMCs.
Hot Shot was such an easy low angst read, and I loved it! It was such a great debut novel by Madison. I cannot wait to follow along with the next books in the series to see where Hunter and Madison end up.
-----
🇹🇷🇴🇵🇪🇸
✸ friends to lovers
✸ hockey player x baker
✸ reverse age gap
✸ coaches daughter
Dual POV & HEA
🇷🇪🇻🇮🇪🇼
Hot Shot is the first book in the Orlando Storm series.
Hunter is the rookie player on the Orlando Storm hockey team. Unsure of his worth to his team and an overall humble attitude, his world is turned upside down when he happens upon Madison while she’s having car troubles. He has been one of my favorite MCs for a long time. He came off as a realistic character and was instantly loveable.
Madison, having recently moved to Orlando to live with her aunt after a string of bad luck with love and her career as a baker. Juggling her job, getting to know father, who happens to be the Storm’s head coach – for the first time in her life. After car troubles have her flashing a very cute good samaritan, she never expects that her life will change so much.
I loved how Hunter and Madison both can’t keep eachother off their minds after meeting. This really is an amazing slow burn friends to lovers story. The way they take the time to really get to know each other (or so you think…) before finally giving into their desires to be a couple was refreshing. It wasn't a will they won't they situation and I appreciated that for a change. Once they are together, of course the drama sets in, but it is so well done that you are always going “WHAT?!” Madison did a great job leading her audience on, so kudos to her!
The book isn't overly spicy but has great chemistry between the sheets for the MMCs.
Hot Shot was such an easy low angst read, and I loved it! It was such a great debut novel by Madison. I cannot wait to follow along with the next books in the series to see where Hunter and Madison end up.
-----
🇹🇷🇴🇵🇪🇸
✸ friends to lovers
✸ hockey player x baker
✸ reverse age gap
✸ coaches daughter
October 23, 2023
Madison is a baker who is moving to Orlando, hoping for a fresh start when her car breaks down and Hunter shows up to help. Madison made a promise to herself that she'd never fall for a professional athlete, particularly a hockey player, again. But Hunter is hard to resist with his sweet and caring nature, leaving Madison considering taking a chance.
I love a sports romance novel, particularly hockey romance, so HOT SHOT was right up my alley! Hunter and Madison's story is told in alternating dual POV which I really enjoyed as it gives a more complete view of the budding relationship. Both of the main characters are flawed and come into the story with their own baggage, but I loved how they share and grow together over the course of the story.
I thought the initial meeting between Madison and Hunter was cute and flirty with a great foundation to the chemistry between the two. I liked that the communication between the couple was relatively open and honest which was refreshing. The romance is a bit of a slow burn as the chemistry and tension builds between the two. The chemistry was palpable and well written with a couple well placed spicy scenes in the mid to back half of the book.
I loved the side characters we meet over the course of the novel and am hopeful to see some of them again in the next book!
The epilogue was well done and I loved the bonus epilogue that was shared as a separate file making for a beautiful conclusion to this love story! I can't wait to see what Marissa will write next!
I would like to thank the author, Marissa James, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
I love a sports romance novel, particularly hockey romance, so HOT SHOT was right up my alley! Hunter and Madison's story is told in alternating dual POV which I really enjoyed as it gives a more complete view of the budding relationship. Both of the main characters are flawed and come into the story with their own baggage, but I loved how they share and grow together over the course of the story.
I thought the initial meeting between Madison and Hunter was cute and flirty with a great foundation to the chemistry between the two. I liked that the communication between the couple was relatively open and honest which was refreshing. The romance is a bit of a slow burn as the chemistry and tension builds between the two. The chemistry was palpable and well written with a couple well placed spicy scenes in the mid to back half of the book.
I loved the side characters we meet over the course of the novel and am hopeful to see some of them again in the next book!
The epilogue was well done and I loved the bonus epilogue that was shared as a separate file making for a beautiful conclusion to this love story! I can't wait to see what Marissa will write next!
I would like to thank the author, Marissa James, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
October 23, 2023
ʜᴏᴛ sʜᴏᴛ (ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ) // ᴍᴀʀɪssᴀ ᴊᴀᴍᴇs
- strangers to friends to lovers
- professional hockey player
- baker
- reverse age gap
- he falls first
- no third act breakup
𝐼𝑓 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑠𝑒, 𝐼 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢. 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑑𝑎𝑦. 𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑑𝑎𝑦.
In this meet cute, an NHL rookie is accidentally flashed by a damsel in distress and stops to help her jump start her car. Without exchanging numbers, they part ways and go about their days.
Hunter and Madison are both kicking themselves over their brief interaction, everyone telling them that if they're meant to be more- the universe will bring them back together. The universe decides to throw them a bone, when Hunter walks into Madison's bakery. Not one to make the same mistake twice, they finally exchange numbers and start texting.
𝑌𝑜𝑢'𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑏𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑦
Madison has a thing against hockey players, so when Hunter finally comes clean about his profession she puts him strictly in the friend zone. The lines in the friend zone however, get pretty blurred and they finally give in to their desire. There's just one more thing Madison hasn't come clean about...
This is a phenomenal debut hockey romance! There were a lot of twists, and so many times what I thought was going to happen, wasn't what happened. I love a book that keeps you on your toes, the curiosity had me finishing this book in one sitting.
🌶️🌶️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- strangers to friends to lovers
- professional hockey player
- baker
- reverse age gap
- he falls first
- no third act breakup
𝐼𝑓 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑠𝑒, 𝐼 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢. 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑑𝑎𝑦. 𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑑𝑎𝑦.
In this meet cute, an NHL rookie is accidentally flashed by a damsel in distress and stops to help her jump start her car. Without exchanging numbers, they part ways and go about their days.
Hunter and Madison are both kicking themselves over their brief interaction, everyone telling them that if they're meant to be more- the universe will bring them back together. The universe decides to throw them a bone, when Hunter walks into Madison's bakery. Not one to make the same mistake twice, they finally exchange numbers and start texting.
𝑌𝑜𝑢'𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑏𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑦
Madison has a thing against hockey players, so when Hunter finally comes clean about his profession she puts him strictly in the friend zone. The lines in the friend zone however, get pretty blurred and they finally give in to their desire. There's just one more thing Madison hasn't come clean about...
This is a phenomenal debut hockey romance! There were a lot of twists, and so many times what I thought was going to happen, wasn't what happened. I love a book that keeps you on your toes, the curiosity had me finishing this book in one sitting.
🌶️🌶️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 24, 2023
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ Open Door, Mild
🏒 Sports Romance
🍰 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
🏒 Age Gap (30F/24M)
🍰 Cinnamon Roll Hero
🏒 Celebrity Romance (NHL Player)
🍰 He Falls First
🏒 Slow Burn
🍰 Dual POV (1st person)
If you’re looking for a feel-good hockey romance - with just the right amount of spice - I highly recommend you check out Marissa's debut novel, Hot Shot!
The MMC, Hunter, is an NHL rookie for the Orlando Storm and the FMC, Madison, is a baker in Orlando, Florida. These two were super relatable and had great chemistry. I also loved the side characters and I am excited to see more from them. Marissa did an awesome job setting the scene for future books within the Orlando Storm universe.
Hot Shot is a true sports romance. Marissa is passionate about hockey and it shows! She pays attention to detail when writing any hockey-related chapters. I also loved seeing a heroine who actually knows about hockey - this made a huge difference to me.
There were a few moments that felt a little rushed to me, but overall, I thought Marissa did a wonderful job with the story and kept me on my toes with some of the reveals in this book. I had the pleasure of designing her discreet cover, and I can't wait to work with her again in the future 🫶
Thank you to Marissa for providing an eARC of Hot Shot!
🌶️ Open Door, Mild
🏒 Sports Romance
🍰 Strangers to Friends to Lovers
🏒 Age Gap (30F/24M)
🍰 Cinnamon Roll Hero
🏒 Celebrity Romance (NHL Player)
🍰 He Falls First
🏒 Slow Burn
🍰 Dual POV (1st person)
If you’re looking for a feel-good hockey romance - with just the right amount of spice - I highly recommend you check out Marissa's debut novel, Hot Shot!
The MMC, Hunter, is an NHL rookie for the Orlando Storm and the FMC, Madison, is a baker in Orlando, Florida. These two were super relatable and had great chemistry. I also loved the side characters and I am excited to see more from them. Marissa did an awesome job setting the scene for future books within the Orlando Storm universe.
Hot Shot is a true sports romance. Marissa is passionate about hockey and it shows! She pays attention to detail when writing any hockey-related chapters. I also loved seeing a heroine who actually knows about hockey - this made a huge difference to me.
There were a few moments that felt a little rushed to me, but overall, I thought Marissa did a wonderful job with the story and kept me on my toes with some of the reveals in this book. I had the pleasure of designing her discreet cover, and I can't wait to work with her again in the future 🫶
Thank you to Marissa for providing an eARC of Hot Shot!
October 27, 2023
Hunter and Madison
This was great for a debut novel. There was a lot of world building, but it wasn’t obvious, it was written into the story well. It was so much more than a hockey romance, both Madison and Hunter came with baggage and some mystery. There were some emotional themes addressed and I liked the way those played out.
Hunter fell hard and fast for Madison. He was all in from the moment he met her, but it took Madison some time to catch up to Hunter’s feelings. I loved that Hunter, an NHL player, felt so insecure in his job. It showed a side of playing professional sports that’s not addressed very often. Hunter’s insecurities ran deep and definitely played a role in his relationship with Madison.
There was a surprising amount of tension surrounding Madison and Hunter. There were secrets she was keeping, but also relationships forming that would affect those secrets. I loved that Madison and Hunter were both in the middle of building relationships with people they thought abandoned them, it gave them a common bond.
This was a great strangers to friends to lovers. I liked that Madison and Hunter started out as friends and developed such a strong relationship. There was a good cast of secondary characters and I can’t wait to see what happens next with the Orlando Storm.
This was great for a debut novel. There was a lot of world building, but it wasn’t obvious, it was written into the story well. It was so much more than a hockey romance, both Madison and Hunter came with baggage and some mystery. There were some emotional themes addressed and I liked the way those played out.
Hunter fell hard and fast for Madison. He was all in from the moment he met her, but it took Madison some time to catch up to Hunter’s feelings. I loved that Hunter, an NHL player, felt so insecure in his job. It showed a side of playing professional sports that’s not addressed very often. Hunter’s insecurities ran deep and definitely played a role in his relationship with Madison.
There was a surprising amount of tension surrounding Madison and Hunter. There were secrets she was keeping, but also relationships forming that would affect those secrets. I loved that Madison and Hunter were both in the middle of building relationships with people they thought abandoned them, it gave them a common bond.
This was a great strangers to friends to lovers. I liked that Madison and Hunter started out as friends and developed such a strong relationship. There was a good cast of secondary characters and I can’t wait to see what happens next with the Orlando Storm.
November 21, 2023
A debut novel that's certain to be a hit for sports romance lovers!!!
This was such a fun read!
Madison and Hunter have an instant connection when they meet, once when her car breaks down and then when he inadvertently visits the bakery she works at. Madison is desperate to keep Hunter in the friend zone after being burned previously by hockey players, but Hunter is desperate to make a relationship between them work. With her past full of secrets, can Madison and Hunter overcome them all?
I enjoyed the relationship between Madison and Hunter. This probably would have been a 5 star read for me had Madison gotten her head out of her butt and been a grown up sooner. I also found myself getting confused over the characters names since 2 of them are so similar (which may have been on purpose to make readers think they know what's going on).
However I still loved the spice and I loved the sports romance aspect. I loved seeing the growth of both Hunter and Madison with their respective relationships separate from each other. I do think it wrapped up quickly, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!!
The biggest thank you to Marissa James for an eARC of this book! All opinions are my own!
This was such a fun read!
Madison and Hunter have an instant connection when they meet, once when her car breaks down and then when he inadvertently visits the bakery she works at. Madison is desperate to keep Hunter in the friend zone after being burned previously by hockey players, but Hunter is desperate to make a relationship between them work. With her past full of secrets, can Madison and Hunter overcome them all?
I enjoyed the relationship between Madison and Hunter. This probably would have been a 5 star read for me had Madison gotten her head out of her butt and been a grown up sooner. I also found myself getting confused over the characters names since 2 of them are so similar (which may have been on purpose to make readers think they know what's going on).
However I still loved the spice and I loved the sports romance aspect. I loved seeing the growth of both Hunter and Madison with their respective relationships separate from each other. I do think it wrapped up quickly, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!!
The biggest thank you to Marissa James for an eARC of this book! All opinions are my own!
October 15, 2023
💎 💎 💎 💎
This girl is in her hockey romance phase and loving it! Thank you @marissajamesauthor for the ARC read of this amazing book!
Well nothing is more exciting to me than watching the main characters grow within themselves. I love watching a romance blossom but I love a good twist too. Each of these main characters overcame their own fears with the help of each other and support from people they didn’t think were really in their corners. Plus those bedroom scenes 🥵 but the book wasn’t consumed by it which is what I truly enjoy!
I enjoy getting a dual POV and being inside each character’s head! There were times I was screaming at my Kindle, “just say it!”
But it definitely was a great car ride book or a late night read… but be warned, you won’t want to put it down!
Thanks again @marissajamesauthor
#bookreview #arcbook #marissajames #hockeyromance #dualpov #spicybook #hotshot
This girl is in her hockey romance phase and loving it! Thank you @marissajamesauthor for the ARC read of this amazing book!
Well nothing is more exciting to me than watching the main characters grow within themselves. I love watching a romance blossom but I love a good twist too. Each of these main characters overcame their own fears with the help of each other and support from people they didn’t think were really in their corners. Plus those bedroom scenes 🥵 but the book wasn’t consumed by it which is what I truly enjoy!
I enjoy getting a dual POV and being inside each character’s head! There were times I was screaming at my Kindle, “just say it!”
But it definitely was a great car ride book or a late night read… but be warned, you won’t want to put it down!
Thanks again @marissajamesauthor
#bookreview #arcbook #marissajames #hockeyromance #dualpov #spicybook #hotshot
November 2, 2023
Book 1 of the Orlando Storm series was so good! I'm not sure that I've ever read a hockey romance before and this book was the perfect 1st. Not only was the characters and story ine wonderful but it also explained some different things about hockey as the story went on. I really enjoyed this since I know nothing about hockey 🏒
Hunter a rookie in the NHL and Madison a baker make for a super cute Strangers to Friends to Lovers couple. Hunter stops to help Madison when he notices her having car trouble then they unexpectedly meet again at her work so fate is definetely on their side. They decide to become friends and only friends and the rest you will have to read to find out about! 😉
There was also some great surprises throughout the book and plot twist that really grab and keep your attention. Everytime I would get to one of these parts I couldn't put the book down!
I hope you will read this debut novel and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Hunter a rookie in the NHL and Madison a baker make for a super cute Strangers to Friends to Lovers couple. Hunter stops to help Madison when he notices her having car trouble then they unexpectedly meet again at her work so fate is definetely on their side. They decide to become friends and only friends and the rest you will have to read to find out about! 😉
There was also some great surprises throughout the book and plot twist that really grab and keep your attention. Everytime I would get to one of these parts I couldn't put the book down!
I hope you will read this debut novel and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
March 10, 2024
Hot Shot is Marissa James’ debut novel. This slow burn hockey romance features a baker and a NHL rookie. Madison recently moved to town to start over after career and romance troubles. They first meet when Madison accidentally flashed Hunter when she was having car troubles. Hunter offered her help then left without asking for her number; but was instantly attracted to her. They ran into each other a few weeks later where they exchanged numbers and began texting. Eventually they decide to get coffee where she learns he is a NHL player in his rookie season. For her own reasons, she doesn't want to date a hockey player and they chose to be friends. They cannot deny their chemistry and deeper feelings though. She holds a secret that could ruin everything though.
I thought I had known plot twists early on, but oh I was wrong. This was a great first book intro to the Orlando Storm hockey team. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next.
I thought I had known plot twists early on, but oh I was wrong. This was a great first book intro to the Orlando Storm hockey team. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next.
October 16, 2023
Great debut novel! It was a quick, low angst read that gave me all the warm and fuzzies.
Hunter and Madison are a sweet couple that have a lot of baggage separately concerning their family history and old friendships. They're both new to the area and meet coincidentally and form a quick friendship that eventually blooms into more. Both of them work through their issues and learn to communicate with each other which in turn helps them grow as individuals and together.
The story is a slow burn, but with some great sizzle toward the end. I think my favorite bit was that I thought I had something figured out the entirety of the book, but then I was so, so wrong. I can't wait to see where the rest of the series goes. There were some side characters that I'd love to see more of, specifically Elias and Brody.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hunter and Madison are a sweet couple that have a lot of baggage separately concerning their family history and old friendships. They're both new to the area and meet coincidentally and form a quick friendship that eventually blooms into more. Both of them work through their issues and learn to communicate with each other which in turn helps them grow as individuals and together.
The story is a slow burn, but with some great sizzle toward the end. I think my favorite bit was that I thought I had something figured out the entirety of the book, but then I was so, so wrong. I can't wait to see where the rest of the series goes. There were some side characters that I'd love to see more of, specifically Elias and Brody.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2023
This book is filled with a lot of witty banter and swoony moments that will get you hooked on the whole Orlando Storm family. When two outsiders move to a new town in search of a true home, will they be able to find that family in each other? For Madison and Hunter, I'd say without a doubt.
It's been a long while since I've read a new author that has made me so excited for a series, but I seriously can't wait to see where this series goes. Madison and Hunter start off with the cutest meet-cute and develop such a lovable relationship. Both of them have experienced some heartbreak and harbor some secrets, but they overcome all of that together.
Also, I'm not surprised by many plot twists because I can usually guess them early on, but Marissa really tripped me up with a little reveal at the end that's definitely worth the read.
It's been a long while since I've read a new author that has made me so excited for a series, but I seriously can't wait to see where this series goes. Madison and Hunter start off with the cutest meet-cute and develop such a lovable relationship. Both of them have experienced some heartbreak and harbor some secrets, but they overcome all of that together.
Also, I'm not surprised by many plot twists because I can usually guess them early on, but Marissa really tripped me up with a little reveal at the end that's definitely worth the read.
January 20, 2024
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this fun debut by Marissa James! It was easy to read and went by super fast. My favorite part was definitely the meet cute, I love an awkward moment that the other person finds cute/endearing! It was a great set up to Madison and Hunter's relationship.
I also really enjoyed reading about Madison and Hunter each finding their way professionally, though their careers couldn't be more different, they were super supportive of each other and I loved the dynamic. I loved how their careers also drove the push and pull of meeting up and their conflict.
I couldn't go 5 full stars because it was a bit cheesy at times. I never full on cringed, but some parts needed a bit more edge for me to really love it. But, this didn't deter me. I loved the book, writing and characters so much! And I'm super excited for the next book, like I can't freaking wait excited!
I really enjoyed this fun debut by Marissa James! It was easy to read and went by super fast. My favorite part was definitely the meet cute, I love an awkward moment that the other person finds cute/endearing! It was a great set up to Madison and Hunter's relationship.
I also really enjoyed reading about Madison and Hunter each finding their way professionally, though their careers couldn't be more different, they were super supportive of each other and I loved the dynamic. I loved how their careers also drove the push and pull of meeting up and their conflict.
I couldn't go 5 full stars because it was a bit cheesy at times. I never full on cringed, but some parts needed a bit more edge for me to really love it. But, this didn't deter me. I loved the book, writing and characters so much! And I'm super excited for the next book, like I can't freaking wait excited!
October 26, 2023
✨Hot Shot by Marissa James Review✨
This book was such a sweet romance, and Hunter had me kicking my feet and smiling while I was reading. I don’t read too many reverse age gap books, but I do feel this one was done wonderfully, even if it was a smaller age gap. I loved Madison, maybe because we’re in the same stages of life and close in age, but there really is so many what ifs at that age—I related to her so much. Hunter and Madison were so cute together, and I honestly loved the communication they had with each other the majority of the time. Even seeing the way they influenced each other with other relationships in their lives was nice to see.
Bravo Marissa! Excellent debut!
RATINGS:
4⭐️
1.5🌶️
This book was such a sweet romance, and Hunter had me kicking my feet and smiling while I was reading. I don’t read too many reverse age gap books, but I do feel this one was done wonderfully, even if it was a smaller age gap. I loved Madison, maybe because we’re in the same stages of life and close in age, but there really is so many what ifs at that age—I related to her so much. Hunter and Madison were so cute together, and I honestly loved the communication they had with each other the majority of the time. Even seeing the way they influenced each other with other relationships in their lives was nice to see.
Bravo Marissa! Excellent debut!
RATINGS:
4⭐️
1.5🌶️
December 9, 2023
Hot Shot: An Orlando Storm Novel
By @marissajames
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
📍Hockey romance
📍Strangers to friends to lovers
📍No third act breakup
📍Dual POV
📍He falls first (SAY LESS!!!💕)
Hunter's a 24 year old NHL rookie working hard to prove his worth to stay on the team. Madison's recently moved to Orlando to work in a friend's bakery. It wasn't her plan to flash him, but her car broke down and he happened to be walking by while she was crawling around her backseat. Oops!
This debut novel ranks right up there with my favorite hockey romance books. Madison and Hunter are perfect for each other. The character development is beautifully written and the supporting characters are wonderful additions that enhance the story. I really can't wait to read the next books in this new series.
By @marissajames
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
📍Hockey romance
📍Strangers to friends to lovers
📍No third act breakup
📍Dual POV
📍He falls first (SAY LESS!!!💕)
Hunter's a 24 year old NHL rookie working hard to prove his worth to stay on the team. Madison's recently moved to Orlando to work in a friend's bakery. It wasn't her plan to flash him, but her car broke down and he happened to be walking by while she was crawling around her backseat. Oops!
This debut novel ranks right up there with my favorite hockey romance books. Madison and Hunter are perfect for each other. The character development is beautifully written and the supporting characters are wonderful additions that enhance the story. I really can't wait to read the next books in this new series.
August 26, 2024
This is the debut of a reverse age-gap hockey romance between Madison, a baker who has reservations about Hunter, a rookie new to the Orlando Storm team. He falls for Madison when he finds her in her broken-down car and woos her over time. He is a cinnamon roll hero who wants to take care of her. One of my favorite things about this novel is the dual POVs that made me understand each character's feelings and thoughts making them so fully rounded. Hunter feels anxious as a rookie on the team while Madison had a big shift in her life after moving to Orlando where the father she never met was the head coach for the Orlando Storm. Madison's feelings went from stressed to settled as her slow-burn relationship with Hunter evolves into love.
⭐️-5 / 🌶️ -3.5
⭐️-5 / 🌶️ -3.5
June 11, 2026
It was a cute enough story with likable enough characters. I liked the progression from strangers to friends to lovers. I also liked that there were other situations going on outside of the relationship between Hunter and Madison - you learn about some of that before their relationship really starts and those situations appear again throughout the book and eventually get resolved. So it was more than “just a romance.” There was some hockey stuff, some baking stuff, and a little bit of Disney - all fun.
I did find quite a bit of typos/errors which bugged me and I didn’t 100% love the writing style, so I don’t know that I will read the other books in the series, but it was ok for one read.
I did find quite a bit of typos/errors which bugged me and I didn’t 100% love the writing style, so I don’t know that I will read the other books in the series, but it was ok for one read.
October 27, 2024
✔️hockey romance
✔️strangers to friends to lovers
✔️hidden identity
2.75⭐️ rounded up
This book is very okay. That’s the best way I can describe it. My reviews are usually long-winded, but I don’t have a lot to say about this one. It’s very middle of the road for me, a cute (and spicy) hockey romance where the MCs meet each other because he stops to help when her car breaks down and they become friends and then more, but she is hiding something big from him that will challenge their relationship.
Like I said there isn’t anything wrong with this book, I’m just not jumping up and down excited to tell everyone about it. It was just fine in my opinion.
✔️strangers to friends to lovers
✔️hidden identity
2.75⭐️ rounded up
This book is very okay. That’s the best way I can describe it. My reviews are usually long-winded, but I don’t have a lot to say about this one. It’s very middle of the road for me, a cute (and spicy) hockey romance where the MCs meet each other because he stops to help when her car breaks down and they become friends and then more, but she is hiding something big from him that will challenge their relationship.
Like I said there isn’t anything wrong with this book, I’m just not jumping up and down excited to tell everyone about it. It was just fine in my opinion.
October 25, 2023
Hockey romance review incoming!
📖 4/5 and 🌶️ 3/5
Hunter is a nervous rookie NHL cinnamon roll.
Madison is heartbroken and has some shaken confidence. (She makes gorge cakes!)
Theirs is an instant click. It’s fun to watch Hunter build her back up. The nickname “sweets” (and when he says he doesn’t share his sweets 🥹)
So many family secrets intertwined throughout to keep more than just the romantic tension going, and it brings out their character development as they go through the growing pains.
😀Overall a good read with yummy spice.
📖 4/5 and 🌶️ 3/5
Hunter is a nervous rookie NHL cinnamon roll.
Madison is heartbroken and has some shaken confidence. (She makes gorge cakes!)
Theirs is an instant click. It’s fun to watch Hunter build her back up. The nickname “sweets” (and when he says he doesn’t share his sweets 🥹)
So many family secrets intertwined throughout to keep more than just the romantic tension going, and it brings out their character development as they go through the growing pains.
😀Overall a good read with yummy spice.
October 26, 2023
I really liked this story and it's written well. I had to suspend belief on her having a ex hockey player friend and well, lots of coincidences that intertwine the two mains in interesting ways.
You will like both characters. They both have a self esteem issue but they're adorable together. Author seems to be setting us up for another hockey hotshot in Brody??!!!
.
You will like both characters. They both have a self esteem issue but they're adorable together. Author seems to be setting us up for another hockey hotshot in Brody??!!!
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