What do you think?
Rate this book
Red Lips & White Lies #2
Redeeming
From USA Today and Amazon Top 5 Bestselling Author Bella Matthews comes a Brother’s Best Friend, Surprise Pregnancy, Spicy Sports Romance.
Callen Sinclair has been the bane of my existence since I was six years old.
You’d think that would have been my first red flag.
I mean... you’d be wrong, but you could think it.
In my defense, my brother’s best friend also happens to be the scorching-hot tight end for the Philadelphia Kings football team.
He’s cocky and confident, with a sinfully sexy smile that could make a good girl do very bad things.
Lucky for me, I’ve never been a good girl.
He tried to tell me I was as off-limits as they come.
But when one night and one birthday wish end in one big pink plus sign, all bets are off.
Callen Sinclair has been the bane of my existence since I was six years old.
You’d think that would have been my first red flag.
I mean... you’d be wrong, but you could think it.
In my defense, my brother’s best friend also happens to be the scorching-hot tight end for the Philadelphia Kings football team.
He’s cocky and confident, with a sinfully sexy smile that could make a good girl do very bad things.
Lucky for me, I’ve never been a good girl.
He tried to tell me I was as off-limits as they come.
But when one night and one birthday wish end in one big pink plus sign, all bets are off.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2024
2526 people are currently reading
4798 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 880 reviews
Read
September 26, 2024Available now!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dG0ch6
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4fIJyzf
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dG0ch6
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4fIJyzf
September 29, 2024
Super cringe. I felt like there wasn’t really a story line and a lot of things didn’t even make any sense
September 25, 2024
Bella had one mission with this book: give me an MMC to take over Ares Wilder's top spot. And besties, she did. I felt like I was cheating on Ares the whole time I read this book but I can't deny that Bella delivered with Callen Sinclair. Callen Sinclair is pure perfection and you are going to fall in love with him! Oh and this book, if I could give it infinite stars I would! It is just that good!
If there is one thing you should know about me is that I love everything that Bella Matthews writes but Redeeming may be my favorite book to date! And we can thank that to Callen freaking Sinclair! So Callen Sinclair is the star football player and his heroine, Caitlin, is his best friends little sister and mafia princess who is most definitely off limits. And she has been for years until Callen can no longer fight it. So what happens when you get your best friends little sister pregnant? Looks like you will have read Redeeming to find out!
For those of you who are familiar with the Bella-verse then Caitlin and Callen are not strangers. You know Callen as the playboy football player who always has a new girl on his arm and you would never expect him to settle down. And Caitlin is seen as loud and annoying to the boys. She's never really been included, thanks to her big brother Maddox. But you see a very different side of both of them in this book. And to find out that these two has a history and have been pining for each other for years was something I didn't see coming.
What I didn't expect? Callen to be such a protective hero. We all know Caitlin's dad is the big ole bad mafia boss Sam Beneventi. He's scary. But you know who wasn't scared? Callen. Our boy had no problem going toe to toe with Sam for his girl. In fact he had no problem telling anyone his true feelings and intentions with Caitlin. She came first and we love to see that in a hero.
I'm honestly just at a loss for words. Every book that I read from Bella just keeps getting better and better. I just love everything that she writes. Her books are such comfort reads for me. I know when I pick up one of her books it's going to be a 5 star banger. In fact, her books feel like coming home. I feel like I am one with with world and I can never get enough. So Bella, thank you for taking the challenge to give me an MMC that tops Ares. You have succeeded. So now you need to top Callen ;) Have fun!!!!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Football Romance
- Surprise Pregnancy
- Brother's Best Friend
- Golden Retriever x Black Cat
- Forbidden
- Touch Her and Die
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Bella Matthews for continuing to give me the opportunity to read her books as an ARC. And I am beyond thankful for being able to read Redeeming as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review! I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of this series!
If there is one thing you should know about me is that I love everything that Bella Matthews writes but Redeeming may be my favorite book to date! And we can thank that to Callen freaking Sinclair! So Callen Sinclair is the star football player and his heroine, Caitlin, is his best friends little sister and mafia princess who is most definitely off limits. And she has been for years until Callen can no longer fight it. So what happens when you get your best friends little sister pregnant? Looks like you will have read Redeeming to find out!
For those of you who are familiar with the Bella-verse then Caitlin and Callen are not strangers. You know Callen as the playboy football player who always has a new girl on his arm and you would never expect him to settle down. And Caitlin is seen as loud and annoying to the boys. She's never really been included, thanks to her big brother Maddox. But you see a very different side of both of them in this book. And to find out that these two has a history and have been pining for each other for years was something I didn't see coming.
What I didn't expect? Callen to be such a protective hero. We all know Caitlin's dad is the big ole bad mafia boss Sam Beneventi. He's scary. But you know who wasn't scared? Callen. Our boy had no problem going toe to toe with Sam for his girl. In fact he had no problem telling anyone his true feelings and intentions with Caitlin. She came first and we love to see that in a hero.
I'm honestly just at a loss for words. Every book that I read from Bella just keeps getting better and better. I just love everything that she writes. Her books are such comfort reads for me. I know when I pick up one of her books it's going to be a 5 star banger. In fact, her books feel like coming home. I feel like I am one with with world and I can never get enough. So Bella, thank you for taking the challenge to give me an MMC that tops Ares. You have succeeded. So now you need to top Callen ;) Have fun!!!!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Football Romance
- Surprise Pregnancy
- Brother's Best Friend
- Golden Retriever x Black Cat
- Forbidden
- Touch Her and Die
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Bella Matthews for continuing to give me the opportunity to read her books as an ARC. And I am beyond thankful for being able to read Redeeming as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review! I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of this series!
September 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
This is my first time reading a Bella Matthew's book but this book made me feel like I needed to of read every single other one and not in the best way.
Personally I thought this book was okay. It wasn't bad and the writing was good but this book was far to short for the plot, I felt no connection between both MCs at all, this was so family oriented every chapter included 5 different side characters and their kids. It felt like plots for the next books were being planted when I needed more from the main characters.
This has 3 different parts and I'm not sure why, they come together, break up. Boom she's pregnant and then he's grovelling but not really and she's just constantly arguing with everyone. There was no emotional depth or connection.
Everything happens so fast there's an underlying drama but it never hits home, the pregnancy felt non existent until she gave birth and that was right at the end.
This is a good read for someone that doesn't care for depth or lots of romance.
Definitely feel like you need to read every book about the side characters to gain the feel of it all and actually remember who is who and what kids are who's and who the main characters are actually related too.
This is my first time reading a Bella Matthew's book but this book made me feel like I needed to of read every single other one and not in the best way.
Personally I thought this book was okay. It wasn't bad and the writing was good but this book was far to short for the plot, I felt no connection between both MCs at all, this was so family oriented every chapter included 5 different side characters and their kids. It felt like plots for the next books were being planted when I needed more from the main characters.
This has 3 different parts and I'm not sure why, they come together, break up. Boom she's pregnant and then he's grovelling but not really and she's just constantly arguing with everyone. There was no emotional depth or connection.
Everything happens so fast there's an underlying drama but it never hits home, the pregnancy felt non existent until she gave birth and that was right at the end.
This is a good read for someone that doesn't care for depth or lots of romance.
Definitely feel like you need to read every book about the side characters to gain the feel of it all and actually remember who is who and what kids are who's and who the main characters are actually related too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2025
I powered through this instead of DNFing… and honestly, I regret that decision
September 30, 2024
A rough start for me, but finished strong
If you have not read any of the Kroydon Hills books, l urge you to do so. This is a second generation, and this is a heavily family centered series, so there are many family members from the previous books. Loads. You’ll be fine if you haven’t read them and can accept that there are tons of family members with stories you haven’t read. Their stories are not pivotal to this story’s plot, but they are definitely involved.
As a general rule- I adore this world, this crazy family, the hilarious group texts, the relationships that are closer than siblings even across generations. Everyone has everyone's back, even if they bicker like siblings at times. But this book was a struggle for me initially. That hurts to admit.
This time we have Caitlin Beneventi who is 24 years old and Callen Sinclair who is 28 years old. They’re both children of Kroyden Hills OG’s. Caitlin and Callen have always known each other. If you’ve read the other books, you know their families are hopelessly intertwined. He’s best friend with her older brother Maddox, and she always tried tagging along wanting to be allowed to hang out with them but always being denied by her brother Maddox. She’s been “crushing” on him since she was 6 years old - though I hate when that is even mentioned because let’s be real, that was puppy love. Which led to my first issue. I didn’t actually buy their chemistry. Not for a long time. Her side felt very immature crush-like.
When she was 18y she snuck in to his room naked and tried to seduce him. Only he rejected her and she was mortified. It changed the course of their relationship, and they’ve been pretty avoidant or antagonistic ever since.
My issue here- he was in a LTR at the time with a girlfriend he’d been with for four years. That makes it super ick for her to try to make him cheat and try to take him from someone else. NGL I almost quit reading. That made me really not like her as a person. Oddly, the girlfriend is never mentioned again. She was only brought up when they had a conversation about “that night” and he explained why he rejected her: She was “barely 18”, Maddox had made him swear to stay away from his sister, and he had a serious girlfriend.
"You were eighteen, Caitlin. Barely eighteen. And I had a girlfriend. One I'd been with for four years."
“…I'm a lot of things, but I'm not a cheat. And I'm not a shit friend."
No idea when/how they broke up. At some point they must have, and he gets drafted into the NFL and naturally becomes your stereotypical manwhore. 🙄
One thing I always hate- when the fmc is pining endlessly over the mmc. He is almost always a manwhore, and from the first page Caitlin refers to Callen that way 🙄 Like how many ways do you need to be told “he’s just not that into you”???? The reality is- if he was, he wouldn’t be a manwhore, and he’d be moving all those roadblocks he claims are in the way of pursuing her. I said what I said.
As if being rejected while naked the first time wasn’t enough, she actually does it AGAIN, dropping her dress after a night out when she pretends to be too drunk to walk so he’ll carry her home 🙄 It still felt like childish games to me.
So….. rough start for me. I didn’t believe he really had feelings for her. Definitely not the “it was always you” kind. She felt like an obsessed foolish crushing tween girl. Not a grown ass adult ready for a big girl relationship ::big sigh::
But, big but…I did buy it later. He was all-in when she is pregnant. And when things go south (which I LOATHED her dad for btw), he never wavers in working to get her back. I loved that she held firm in her anger towards the domineering men in her life. She didn’t just let it go. Loved it.
The biggest win for me is the family aspect. I love this crazy family. I love the connections, the bickering, the texts, all of it. That’s what really saved this for me when I was struggling to get into their relationship initially. There’s a lot of family dynamics, so hopefully that’s your thing. Because they’re amazing.
If you have not read any of the Kroydon Hills books, l urge you to do so. This is a second generation, and this is a heavily family centered series, so there are many family members from the previous books. Loads. You’ll be fine if you haven’t read them and can accept that there are tons of family members with stories you haven’t read. Their stories are not pivotal to this story’s plot, but they are definitely involved.
As a general rule- I adore this world, this crazy family, the hilarious group texts, the relationships that are closer than siblings even across generations. Everyone has everyone's back, even if they bicker like siblings at times. But this book was a struggle for me initially. That hurts to admit.
This time we have Caitlin Beneventi who is 24 years old and Callen Sinclair who is 28 years old. They’re both children of Kroyden Hills OG’s. Caitlin and Callen have always known each other. If you’ve read the other books, you know their families are hopelessly intertwined. He’s best friend with her older brother Maddox, and she always tried tagging along wanting to be allowed to hang out with them but always being denied by her brother Maddox. She’s been “crushing” on him since she was 6 years old - though I hate when that is even mentioned because let’s be real, that was puppy love. Which led to my first issue. I didn’t actually buy their chemistry. Not for a long time. Her side felt very immature crush-like.
When she was 18y she snuck in to his room naked and tried to seduce him. Only he rejected her and she was mortified. It changed the course of their relationship, and they’ve been pretty avoidant or antagonistic ever since.
My issue here- he was in a LTR at the time with a girlfriend he’d been with for four years. That makes it super ick for her to try to make him cheat and try to take him from someone else. NGL I almost quit reading. That made me really not like her as a person. Oddly, the girlfriend is never mentioned again. She was only brought up when they had a conversation about “that night” and he explained why he rejected her: She was “barely 18”, Maddox had made him swear to stay away from his sister, and he had a serious girlfriend.
"You were eighteen, Caitlin. Barely eighteen. And I had a girlfriend. One I'd been with for four years."
“…I'm a lot of things, but I'm not a cheat. And I'm not a shit friend."
No idea when/how they broke up. At some point they must have, and he gets drafted into the NFL and naturally becomes your stereotypical manwhore. 🙄
One thing I always hate- when the fmc is pining endlessly over the mmc. He is almost always a manwhore, and from the first page Caitlin refers to Callen that way 🙄 Like how many ways do you need to be told “he’s just not that into you”???? The reality is- if he was, he wouldn’t be a manwhore, and he’d be moving all those roadblocks he claims are in the way of pursuing her. I said what I said.
As if being rejected while naked the first time wasn’t enough, she actually does it AGAIN, dropping her dress after a night out when she pretends to be too drunk to walk so he’ll carry her home 🙄 It still felt like childish games to me.
So….. rough start for me. I didn’t believe he really had feelings for her. Definitely not the “it was always you” kind. She felt like an obsessed foolish crushing tween girl. Not a grown ass adult ready for a big girl relationship ::big sigh::
But, big but…I did buy it later. He was all-in when she is pregnant. And when things go south (which I LOATHED her dad for btw), he never wavers in working to get her back. I loved that she held firm in her anger towards the domineering men in her life. She didn’t just let it go. Loved it.
The biggest win for me is the family aspect. I love this crazy family. I love the connections, the bickering, the texts, all of it. That’s what really saved this for me when I was struggling to get into their relationship initially. There’s a lot of family dynamics, so hopefully that’s your thing. Because they’re amazing.
December 15, 2024
Wanted an easy read but this was just a bit boring. Predictable storyline and insta love that was kinda icky. It was very fast paced but did skim quite a few paragraphs - probably should have dnf lol
October 2, 2024
Callen and Caitlin took me through an emotional rollercoaster. I loved their story and found myself relating to Caitlin's pregnancy/birth experience since I had something similar.
I wanted to punch the men in Caitlin's life a lot... but they loved her. Second Generation series have my heart because it truly feels like the story comes full circle. Looking forward to the next book!
I wanted to punch the men in Caitlin's life a lot... but they loved her. Second Generation series have my heart because it truly feels like the story comes full circle. Looking forward to the next book!
November 24, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Callen and Caitlin are so freaking cute, and Callen is one of my favorite Bella Matthews heroes. I only started reading the 2nd generation series, so I really need to go back and read their parents' romances. The family tree and interconnected families can kind of be confusing at times, but I love all the side characters.
Callen is Caitlin’s brother's best friend, and she has been pining for him for years. She thinks he only looks at her like a little sister, but he has wanted her for the past 4 years. Unfortunately, he promised his best friend he would never go after her. They live together though and it finally gets too hard to fight their feelings. They had such amazing chemistry because they have been in love for years, so their connection was strong. Things fall apart pretty quickly once her mob father finds out, but things come to light when Caitlin gets pregnant.
This had everything I love in a good accidental pregnancy. I love a man that steps up and is all in and we get to see him be there for her through the pregnancy and birth.
This was so sweet, and I can’t wait for the next one.
TW: complications in childbirth, dangerous childbirth
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Callen and Caitlin are so freaking cute, and Callen is one of my favorite Bella Matthews heroes. I only started reading the 2nd generation series, so I really need to go back and read their parents' romances. The family tree and interconnected families can kind of be confusing at times, but I love all the side characters.
Callen is Caitlin’s brother's best friend, and she has been pining for him for years. She thinks he only looks at her like a little sister, but he has wanted her for the past 4 years. Unfortunately, he promised his best friend he would never go after her. They live together though and it finally gets too hard to fight their feelings. They had such amazing chemistry because they have been in love for years, so their connection was strong. Things fall apart pretty quickly once her mob father finds out, but things come to light when Caitlin gets pregnant.
This had everything I love in a good accidental pregnancy. I love a man that steps up and is all in and we get to see him be there for her through the pregnancy and birth.
This was so sweet, and I can’t wait for the next one.
TW: complications in childbirth, dangerous childbirth
September 27, 2024
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE🔥🔥💥
So freaking good! If Bella writes it, Im going to read it, that's an absolute given! But I was not prepared to love an accidental pregnancy trope as much as I did. It takes a lot for me to rate this trope a full five stars, but of course Bella would make it easy, because Caitlin and Callen were EVERYTHING.
I love them. 10/10 no notes. This book is utter perfection.
The angst, the feels the swooniness, it was all TOP TIER.
✨Football Romance
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ Accidental Pregnancy
✨ Second Chance
Callen and Caitlin have known each other since they were young, and she is his best friend's very off limits little sister. She's also had a thing for Callen since she was young, and one night, he quits fighting his very real feelings for her an they get a little surprise in the form of two pink lines.
These two gave me every single emotion I could have. I cried, and when I say cried, I mean this book made me full on sob. I was a mess but this was one of the best payoffs for an HEA that Ive ever read, and every emotion I felt was absolutely worth it.
And Callen Sinclair... this man. THIS MAN! He was so much more than I expected and everything I could have ever wanted, This man was so sure, so steady and so steadfast in getting his seined chance with the woman he loves. The way he showed up and groveled was fantastic and Caitlin made him work for it.
What I love about Bella's world is how much family and frienships play a huge part in every story and Redeeming had all my favorites showing up, which of course I loved.
Just read this. Its fantastic.
SPICE🔥🔥💥
So freaking good! If Bella writes it, Im going to read it, that's an absolute given! But I was not prepared to love an accidental pregnancy trope as much as I did. It takes a lot for me to rate this trope a full five stars, but of course Bella would make it easy, because Caitlin and Callen were EVERYTHING.
I love them. 10/10 no notes. This book is utter perfection.
The angst, the feels the swooniness, it was all TOP TIER.
✨Football Romance
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ Accidental Pregnancy
✨ Second Chance
Callen and Caitlin have known each other since they were young, and she is his best friend's very off limits little sister. She's also had a thing for Callen since she was young, and one night, he quits fighting his very real feelings for her an they get a little surprise in the form of two pink lines.
These two gave me every single emotion I could have. I cried, and when I say cried, I mean this book made me full on sob. I was a mess but this was one of the best payoffs for an HEA that Ive ever read, and every emotion I felt was absolutely worth it.
And Callen Sinclair... this man. THIS MAN! He was so much more than I expected and everything I could have ever wanted, This man was so sure, so steady and so steadfast in getting his seined chance with the woman he loves. The way he showed up and groveled was fantastic and Caitlin made him work for it.
What I love about Bella's world is how much family and frienships play a huge part in every story and Redeeming had all my favorites showing up, which of course I loved.
Just read this. Its fantastic.
September 25, 2024
Buckle up, Redeeming is going to squeeze your heart, shatter it, and then put it back together in a more beautiful way with Caitlin and Caleb’s story. WOW. I got completely swept away in their journey that before I knew it, it was over and all k wanted was more of these two. Callen and Caitlin have grown up around each other and been in each other’s life for a long time now and that doesn’t make it easy when you start to get feelings that can’t be ignored, but what else are they going to do. Then one night, a small crack is left in that open instead of closed door and now might be the time. However, in life nothing can ever be easy and just work out. Callen and Caitlin have intense chemistry and a connection with each other, but it is not always that simple. Especially when you have an overprotective brother who’s a roommate and best friend, then add in all the family drama and friends, if these two want to make it work, they will have to fight for what they want. The question is will they or will they let others decide for them? I loved the this book and all our favorite characters and their hilarious banter. I cannot wait for the next one!
October 9, 2024
This is probably my favourite book written by Bella! I loved it so much. I managed to read it in one day because like all of Bella’s books I’ve read, this was fast-paced & entertaining from start to finish. It was also funny & super sweet, & the ending was very emotional & tense & had me crying so much! But it was a beautiful conclusion to Caitlin’s & Callen’s story🥹
Caitlin was such a wonderful character. She’s stubborn, loud, bold, opinionated, sarcastic, unapologetically herself & knows how to stand up for herself. Callen is protective, loyal, honest, romantic, charming, & determined to win his girl back. His apologies & grovelling we’re SO sweet & romantic.
There is tension right from the start, a push & pull, bickering & great banter. As soon as these two finally get together after years of longing, they’re forced apart by outside forces & it brings so much emotion & pain to the story. But the way Callen fights to win her back & immediately goes into dad mode was so cute🥹🩷
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: brothers best friend, surprise pregnancy, second chance romance, rich families, football player, enemies to lovers, childhood crush, roommates
Caitlin was such a wonderful character. She’s stubborn, loud, bold, opinionated, sarcastic, unapologetically herself & knows how to stand up for herself. Callen is protective, loyal, honest, romantic, charming, & determined to win his girl back. His apologies & grovelling we’re SO sweet & romantic.
There is tension right from the start, a push & pull, bickering & great banter. As soon as these two finally get together after years of longing, they’re forced apart by outside forces & it brings so much emotion & pain to the story. But the way Callen fights to win her back & immediately goes into dad mode was so cute🥹🩷
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: brothers best friend, surprise pregnancy, second chance romance, rich families, football player, enemies to lovers, childhood crush, roommates
September 26, 2024
You never quite know what to expect when you open a Bella Matthews novel, but one thing is certain—you’ll close the book feeling like you've experienced something exceptional. ‘Redeeming is no different. This second instalment in the Red Lips & White Lies series delivers an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you mesmerized from start to finish.
Ms Matthews paints a kaleidoscope of emotions, from heartwarming joy to moments so intense they'll scorch the page. The heat between Caitlin and Callen is striking, and their romance is beautifully complex—full of heartache, passion, and swoon-worthy moments. The family dynamics add a rich layer of depth to the narrative, while the perfectly timed light-hearted moments bring balance to the story.
This isn't just a classic "brother's best friend" trope; it's a story of unspoken love, deeply buried feelings, and emotional hurdles that feel insurmountable. Caitlin has loved Callen for years, and now that the truth is ready to surface, you’ll be left wondering—will they finally find their way to each other, or will fate step in with more challenges?
From beginning to end, you won't be able to tear yourself away. Bella Matthews has outdone herself—this is a romance you’ll want to read over and over.
Bravo, Bella Matthews, bravo!
Ms Matthews paints a kaleidoscope of emotions, from heartwarming joy to moments so intense they'll scorch the page. The heat between Caitlin and Callen is striking, and their romance is beautifully complex—full of heartache, passion, and swoon-worthy moments. The family dynamics add a rich layer of depth to the narrative, while the perfectly timed light-hearted moments bring balance to the story.
This isn't just a classic "brother's best friend" trope; it's a story of unspoken love, deeply buried feelings, and emotional hurdles that feel insurmountable. Caitlin has loved Callen for years, and now that the truth is ready to surface, you’ll be left wondering—will they finally find their way to each other, or will fate step in with more challenges?
From beginning to end, you won't be able to tear yourself away. Bella Matthews has outdone herself—this is a romance you’ll want to read over and over.
Bravo, Bella Matthews, bravo!
September 25, 2024
I don’t know what Bella puts in these books but I devour every one and they just get better and better.
The characters all feel like family members at this point, you get so invested in these families.
Callen has taken top spot, that man will have you swooning and he’s not afraid to stand up to the mafia boss to get what he wants.
We’ve seen Callen in other books with many different women, he has a rep as the playboy football star.
But there’s a reason for that, he’s been secretly pining for his best friend’s little sister, the Mafia princess Caitlin Beneventi.
Caitlin has made it clear to him there’s feeling there over the years but Callen has kept his distance from his best friend’s sister…. Until he can’t.
And when they finally give in imagine their surprise to find out Caitlin is pregnant!
I also love the text banter between the guys and Callens family chat!
There were some tough topics throughout the book too so check your triggers if you have them but as always Bella handles them beautifully.
10000% recommend this book.
The characters all feel like family members at this point, you get so invested in these families.
Callen has taken top spot, that man will have you swooning and he’s not afraid to stand up to the mafia boss to get what he wants.
We’ve seen Callen in other books with many different women, he has a rep as the playboy football star.
But there’s a reason for that, he’s been secretly pining for his best friend’s little sister, the Mafia princess Caitlin Beneventi.
Caitlin has made it clear to him there’s feeling there over the years but Callen has kept his distance from his best friend’s sister…. Until he can’t.
And when they finally give in imagine their surprise to find out Caitlin is pregnant!
I also love the text banter between the guys and Callens family chat!
There were some tough topics throughout the book too so check your triggers if you have them but as always Bella handles them beautifully.
10000% recommend this book.
December 16, 2024
Tropes- Brothers Best Friend, Surprise Pregnancy, and throw in some family drama and grovelling.
Caitlin has been in love with her brother’s best friend Callen for years. Never having crossed that line, Callen has fought his attraction to Caitlin because of her brother. But ever since she became one of his roommates, and they started to spend more time together - the lines begin to blur. When a family member drives a wedge between them, Caitlin thinks her relationship is over for good - however when she finds out she’s pregnant, all bets are off.
The writing and pacing was good, some plot holes - a glimpse of Caitlin’s father’s mafia life but it’s not really needed or explored a lot. This is a stand-alone but there is reference to a lot of other characters from other books by the author - which took away some of the experience for me, it’s just too complicated and too many characters and family trees. Lots of spice. I really liked how strong Cait is, her sense of humour and wit is fantastic.
Caitlin has been in love with her brother’s best friend Callen for years. Never having crossed that line, Callen has fought his attraction to Caitlin because of her brother. But ever since she became one of his roommates, and they started to spend more time together - the lines begin to blur. When a family member drives a wedge between them, Caitlin thinks her relationship is over for good - however when she finds out she’s pregnant, all bets are off.
The writing and pacing was good, some plot holes - a glimpse of Caitlin’s father’s mafia life but it’s not really needed or explored a lot. This is a stand-alone but there is reference to a lot of other characters from other books by the author - which took away some of the experience for me, it’s just too complicated and too many characters and family trees. Lots of spice. I really liked how strong Cait is, her sense of humour and wit is fantastic.
September 26, 2024
Redeeming by Bella Matthews was fabulous. I devoured the book and couldn't get enough. I loved it from start to finish. Callen and Caitlin were everything and more.
The story is told in three parts and when I was at the end of the first part was mouth was hanging open. It was the worlds colliding and not in a great way.
Callen has always secretly liked Caitlin. Caitlin has always not so secretly liked Callen. When the timing finally aligns and they finally get their moment, fate has something else in store.
Callen is protective to a fault. Caitlin wants to be independent and make her own choices. She is a fighter and won't let anyone or anything hold her back.
While they have their obstacles and surprises along the way, their connection is there through it all.
My favorite book by Bella Matthews so far. I just loved it.
Redeeming is a brother's best friend, spicy, surprise pregnancy, sports romance that you do not want to miss!
The story is told in three parts and when I was at the end of the first part was mouth was hanging open. It was the worlds colliding and not in a great way.
Callen has always secretly liked Caitlin. Caitlin has always not so secretly liked Callen. When the timing finally aligns and they finally get their moment, fate has something else in store.
Callen is protective to a fault. Caitlin wants to be independent and make her own choices. She is a fighter and won't let anyone or anything hold her back.
While they have their obstacles and surprises along the way, their connection is there through it all.
My favorite book by Bella Matthews so far. I just loved it.
Redeeming is a brother's best friend, spicy, surprise pregnancy, sports romance that you do not want to miss!
September 25, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Caitlin and Callen are getting their HEA and man is it hard fought.
🤍Football romance
🤍Brother’s best friend
🤍Accidental pregnancy
🤍Friends to lovers
🤍Roommates
🤍Meddling family members
Caitlin and Callen are two side characters that we have seen a lot of in the last series and now we finally get to see them together. While most of the “falling in love” has been brewing for years, they finally give in to temptation one night that eventually leads to much, much more.
You can tell that these characters are already undoubtedly in love with each other from the very beginning of the book. But there are people standing in the way of them being together.
This book gives us all of the best parts of Bella Matthews’ books - the huge families and hilarious group chats.
I’m excited to see what direction she takes the next book!
Caitlin and Callen are getting their HEA and man is it hard fought.
🤍Football romance
🤍Brother’s best friend
🤍Accidental pregnancy
🤍Friends to lovers
🤍Roommates
🤍Meddling family members
Caitlin and Callen are two side characters that we have seen a lot of in the last series and now we finally get to see them together. While most of the “falling in love” has been brewing for years, they finally give in to temptation one night that eventually leads to much, much more.
You can tell that these characters are already undoubtedly in love with each other from the very beginning of the book. But there are people standing in the way of them being together.
This book gives us all of the best parts of Bella Matthews’ books - the huge families and hilarious group chats.
I’m excited to see what direction she takes the next book!
September 26, 2024
Another great read from Ms. Matthews. Callen is now one of my top characters written by this author; he is determined, and I find that very appealing.
Caitlin and Callen's story is tumultuous throughout the book. Callen hides his feelings, conflicted and frustrated over his feelings for Caitlin, his roommate. Caitlin is the only girl in her family, the princess, determined to make her own decisions.
The story was a quick read for me, hard to put down, and told in three parts. Caitlin's secret thoughts head each chapter and are on point! I cheered as the two fought hard for their happiness, but almost threw the kindle several times while trying to figure it out.
We know who is next, and I am excited to see what is in store for them.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Caitlin and Callen's story is tumultuous throughout the book. Callen hides his feelings, conflicted and frustrated over his feelings for Caitlin, his roommate. Caitlin is the only girl in her family, the princess, determined to make her own decisions.
The story was a quick read for me, hard to put down, and told in three parts. Caitlin's secret thoughts head each chapter and are on point! I cheered as the two fought hard for their happiness, but almost threw the kindle several times while trying to figure it out.
We know who is next, and I am excited to see what is in store for them.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
September 26, 2024
Holy hotness! Why does every book keep getting better and better. This may be my favorite Bella Matthews book yet, and I have read them all.
Caitlin is one tough FMC, and I loved everything about Callen. This story definitely had my emotions all over the place in the best way possible. If you want a story that you will love the main characters, laugh, cry, and scream, then this is for you. Let's also not forget the spice. 🔥🔥🔥.
🍼 Surprise Pregnancy
🏈 Football Player
💝 Brother’s Best Friends
This is book 2 in the Red Lips & White Lies series. This series and the Playing to Win series are the second generation characters, so the friend groups and families overlap. I definitely recommend them all.
Thank you, Bella, for the ARC.
Caitlin is one tough FMC, and I loved everything about Callen. This story definitely had my emotions all over the place in the best way possible. If you want a story that you will love the main characters, laugh, cry, and scream, then this is for you. Let's also not forget the spice. 🔥🔥🔥.
🍼 Surprise Pregnancy
🏈 Football Player
💝 Brother’s Best Friends
This is book 2 in the Red Lips & White Lies series. This series and the Playing to Win series are the second generation characters, so the friend groups and families overlap. I definitely recommend them all.
Thank you, Bella, for the ARC.
October 28, 2024
This was a very nice read! I am not a fan of accidental pregnancy trope but it was done so well in this book that I enjoyed it. The banter, the taboo feelings, the dose of spicy, the family dynamics made this book a perfect balance of heart and heat. Bella has crafted a world I want to live in. I cannot wait for more.
╰⪼ This is the second series in the Kroydon Hills legacy world and this is book 2 in the Red Lips & White Lies Series. Each one can be read as a complete standalone.
TROPES: sports romance: Football • brother’s best friend • accidental pregnancy • close knit family • small town • good grovel
╰⪼ This is the second series in the Kroydon Hills legacy world and this is book 2 in the Red Lips & White Lies Series. Each one can be read as a complete standalone.
TROPES: sports romance: Football • brother’s best friend • accidental pregnancy • close knit family • small town • good grovel
September 26, 2024
Talk about all the feels!! Nothing will match the intensity of Callen and Cait! These two are nothing but straight chemistry!! Their interactions were laced with angst and oh boy are you in for some major surprises!
The love that Callen holds and gives to Cait was absolutely beautiful because this woman is feisty! She’s head strong and can be a little bit of a brat (lol) but Callen knows how to handle her. He gives her space when she needs it but will push her and her buttons if there’s a need!
I love getting to see some OG characters and I was worried there for a bit but Bella did everything so well! This series is proving to be one of the angstiest and for me I love angst so this is definitely a top fave book and series!
The love that Callen holds and gives to Cait was absolutely beautiful because this woman is feisty! She’s head strong and can be a little bit of a brat (lol) but Callen knows how to handle her. He gives her space when she needs it but will push her and her buttons if there’s a need!
I love getting to see some OG characters and I was worried there for a bit but Bella did everything so well! This series is proving to be one of the angstiest and for me I love angst so this is definitely a top fave book and series!
September 26, 2024
This book destroyed me and I absolutely loved it. The emotions that Callen and Caitlin pulled out of me was astronomical.
From cover to cover It pulled me right into the bare bones and left me raw, I love it when a book makes me feel everything.
Bella completely knocked this one out of the park, she makes every MMC hotter and hotter because Callen.. damn 🫠 there's something in this book that I never knew I needed.
Don't hesitate...run to read this or anything from Bella, her storytelling is phenomenal
From cover to cover It pulled me right into the bare bones and left me raw, I love it when a book makes me feel everything.
Bella completely knocked this one out of the park, she makes every MMC hotter and hotter because Callen.. damn 🫠 there's something in this book that I never knew I needed.
Don't hesitate...run to read this or anything from Bella, her storytelling is phenomenal
September 28, 2024
Another great sports romance by Bella Matthews! I devoured this one so quickly! So good!
Callen and Caitlin sure go through the ringer with each other throughout this book. Caitlin has loved Callen all her life even before she knew what a crush was. Her older brother Maddox’s best friend.
Callen swore to Maddox he wouldn't touch Caitlin even when he, too, shared the same feelings like she did.
I loved how these two wanted their happiness and the spice, angst, and love was all there! I loved it!
Callen and Caitlin sure go through the ringer with each other throughout this book. Caitlin has loved Callen all her life even before she knew what a crush was. Her older brother Maddox’s best friend.
Callen swore to Maddox he wouldn't touch Caitlin even when he, too, shared the same feelings like she did.
I loved how these two wanted their happiness and the spice, angst, and love was all there! I loved it!
October 1, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ 3🌶️
ARC Review!
Accidental pregnancy and brother's best friend, sign me up! This book is one of my favourites of Bella's so far. Callen was so beautiful and I loved how fierce Caitlin was and that she stood up for what she wanted in life.
This book was definitely an emotional one with both characters dealing with some heavy situations.
Highly recommend, I can't wait for the next in the series.
ARC Review!
Accidental pregnancy and brother's best friend, sign me up! This book is one of my favourites of Bella's so far. Callen was so beautiful and I loved how fierce Caitlin was and that she stood up for what she wanted in life.
This book was definitely an emotional one with both characters dealing with some heavy situations.
Highly recommend, I can't wait for the next in the series.
October 2, 2024
Callen Sinclair…… my goodness the cover model made me fall in love and then I read the book and OH MAN.
Caitlyn and Callen are couple goals. They may have had to jump through some hoops, but when they finally get there THEY GET THERE. I love all the characters in Bella’s books. She just writes a different breed of people.
This book is sweet and spicy in all the right places. The whole story line is great. I love how Cait stands up for herself and makes Callen work for it. This is one of my favorite reads of September by far. Bella did it again and I’m in awe of her!!
Caitlyn and Callen are couple goals. They may have had to jump through some hoops, but when they finally get there THEY GET THERE. I love all the characters in Bella’s books. She just writes a different breed of people.
This book is sweet and spicy in all the right places. The whole story line is great. I love how Cait stands up for herself and makes Callen work for it. This is one of my favorite reads of September by far. Bella did it again and I’m in awe of her!!
October 9, 2024
Well, I just knew Callen and Caitlin were going to be perfect 💜 I am obsessed with these books. I can't get enough of the world, Bella Matthews has created.
I love seeing all of the characters from previous books, and Sam and Amelia were one of my favourite couples!
I love seeing all of the characters from previous books, and Sam and Amelia were one of my favourite couples!
October 11, 2024
Callen & Caitlin's story, it's a kind of enemies-to-lovers and loved from afar read. There's attraction that they don't want to admit then one doesn't want to hide! Mistakes, secrets, misunderstandings, attraction and two pink lines....
April 23, 2025
I finished early, it was good but so messed at the same time.
there's a few holes in this story that doesn't make sense and of course it's because there's some background that idk 😂
BUT it was so good, Callen what a MAN.
there's a few holes in this story that doesn't make sense and of course it's because there's some background that idk 😂
BUT it was so good, Callen what a MAN.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 880 reviews