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Riverside U #1
Face Off with the Captain
A brand new series from best selling author R.C. Stephens.
Get ready for Riverside U an all new college hockey series.
I accidentally hooked up with the captain of the hockey team…
In my defense, it was before I landed the social media internship—and learned about the strict no fraternization policy.
Not that it matters. I’m pretty sure he hates me after I took off and left him sleeping on the beach.
I’m forced to work closely with the angry captain and all I can think about is the steamy night we spent together. And how it can’t happen again, because if word gets out it could cost us both everything.
Keeping my distance is harder than I thought when my dorm floods and my temporary housing is— you guessed it. The hockey house.
Being under the same roof, I see Finn in a whole new light.
He’s not just the cocky jock I pegged him as.
He’s so much more, and it pushes the boundaries of our frenemies-with-benefits situationship.
Now I’m not just facing off with the captain… I’m falling head over heels for him.
Get ready for Riverside U an all new college hockey series.
I accidentally hooked up with the captain of the hockey team…
In my defense, it was before I landed the social media internship—and learned about the strict no fraternization policy.
Not that it matters. I’m pretty sure he hates me after I took off and left him sleeping on the beach.
I’m forced to work closely with the angry captain and all I can think about is the steamy night we spent together. And how it can’t happen again, because if word gets out it could cost us both everything.
Keeping my distance is harder than I thought when my dorm floods and my temporary housing is— you guessed it. The hockey house.
Being under the same roof, I see Finn in a whole new light.
He’s not just the cocky jock I pegged him as.
He’s so much more, and it pushes the boundaries of our frenemies-with-benefits situationship.
Now I’m not just facing off with the captain… I’m falling head over heels for him.
Unknown Binding
First published September 10, 2024
570 people are currently reading
993 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Stephens
45 books1,415 followersR.C. Stephens writes the kind of stories that make you laugh, cry, and believe in love all over again.
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
September 30, 2024
I liked the concept but it kind of fell flat. There were also a lot of typos. Kind of disappointed because I liked the Westfall U and Player series
September 12, 2024
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.“Face Off with the Captain” entices readers with a tantalizing college romance between a spirited social media intern/ track star, and the hockey team’s captain. It tells the story of a girl who vows never to date an athlete and a boy who steers clear of relationships. The story promises to keep readers engaged, while discovering if the couple will overcome the increasing odds to make their relationship work.
"Face Off with the Captain" is the first book in the Riverside U series. It features Finn, the younger brother of the heroine from "Forever Player." Finn's life intersects with Charlie, the heroine, when she learns during one of her social media classes that her boyfriend of seven months has been unfaithful. Overwhelmed by the revelation, she flees the classroom. While fleeing she finds solace in Finn's embrace.
The encounter resulted in them spending the night together on the beach, sharing secrets and a passion filled night. Charlie departed the next morning, convinced she would never see Finn again. Yet, upon starting her internship with the hockey team, she discovered that her one-night stand was none other than the team's captain. The university's strict no-fraternization policy between employees and students should have made things simple. However, their intense mutual attraction made rendered it difficult.
Finn and Charlie made a great couple. Charlie is loyal, selfless and doesn't shy away from hard work. Finn gives the impression of being a playboy. However, beneath his playboy persona lay a soul that experienced emotional pain. He is a protector by nature and goes all out for those he cares about.
Their chemistry was electric, and concealing their emotions became increasingly difficult. I appreciated the development of their romance and was pleased to see them overcome the increasing challenges. There were occasions of push and pull where they tried denying their feelings but their intense attraction to each other made it difficult to keep their distance. Every step of the way Finn pulled out all the stops to protect their relationship. One cannot help but to root for their happily ever after.
The story had its share of intensity, which the author balanced with humor and emotional moments. This balance, combined with the supporting cast, gave the story depth.
"Face Off with the Captain" offers an engaging experience for fans of sports romance.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
"Face Off with the Captain" is the first book in the Riverside U series. It features Finn, the younger brother of the heroine from "Forever Player." Finn's life intersects with Charlie, the heroine, when she learns during one of her social media classes that her boyfriend of seven months has been unfaithful. Overwhelmed by the revelation, she flees the classroom. While fleeing she finds solace in Finn's embrace.
The encounter resulted in them spending the night together on the beach, sharing secrets and a passion filled night. Charlie departed the next morning, convinced she would never see Finn again. Yet, upon starting her internship with the hockey team, she discovered that her one-night stand was none other than the team's captain. The university's strict no-fraternization policy between employees and students should have made things simple. However, their intense mutual attraction made rendered it difficult.
Finn and Charlie made a great couple. Charlie is loyal, selfless and doesn't shy away from hard work. Finn gives the impression of being a playboy. However, beneath his playboy persona lay a soul that experienced emotional pain. He is a protector by nature and goes all out for those he cares about.
Their chemistry was electric, and concealing their emotions became increasingly difficult. I appreciated the development of their romance and was pleased to see them overcome the increasing challenges. There were occasions of push and pull where they tried denying their feelings but their intense attraction to each other made it difficult to keep their distance. Every step of the way Finn pulled out all the stops to protect their relationship. One cannot help but to root for their happily ever after.
The story had its share of intensity, which the author balanced with humor and emotional moments. This balance, combined with the supporting cast, gave the story depth.
"Face Off with the Captain" offers an engaging experience for fans of sports romance.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
September 11, 2024
This is my first time ARC reading for @rc_stephens_author
Boy did I love this story! This story is a standalone.
Check out the bottom of my review.
Charlotte aka Charlie
She is a social media marketing major. Her life falls apart all at once and she finds herself in the arms of a strange her promises her things she's never experienced. She is a sweet, loving but inexperienced women. Her father had banned her from dating athletes. Her father has issues of her own and she practically is the parent. (I can relate to that part a lot) however she is so selfless and caring she will do ANYTHING for the ones she loves. She has no clue just how special she is.
Finn
He got hurt bad and as sworn to never ever let a women close to him again. He's the captain of the hockey team. Women fall at his feet and he has a no attachments and no more than once together rules. He's not a bad guy inside but his heart is heavily guarded and reasonably so. He is hot and can cook 😍 I loved seeing him become himself again and learning all about him. His reason for his major instantly took my heart.
The twist about their sports was exciting and I laughed so hard I cried tears for the interaction with the niece. This was a perfect sweet story filled with Emotional support pickles, orgasms, and being true to yourself.
The house party had me laughing so hard I cried. The same tone but different t words 🤣🤣🤣
I hope Ruby has a brothers best friend book coming in the future 👀 I seriously loved this book. A few weird moments at the end but it was such a sweet story. I legit was stressing about the app being used for evil the ENTIRE time 🤣
This is a super cute standalone that I hope you enjoy as much as I did!
I kept my review for the end and it's saying he's perfect 😍🥵
Boy did I love this story! This story is a standalone.
Check out the bottom of my review.
Charlotte aka Charlie
She is a social media marketing major. Her life falls apart all at once and she finds herself in the arms of a strange her promises her things she's never experienced. She is a sweet, loving but inexperienced women. Her father had banned her from dating athletes. Her father has issues of her own and she practically is the parent. (I can relate to that part a lot) however she is so selfless and caring she will do ANYTHING for the ones she loves. She has no clue just how special she is.
Finn
He got hurt bad and as sworn to never ever let a women close to him again. He's the captain of the hockey team. Women fall at his feet and he has a no attachments and no more than once together rules. He's not a bad guy inside but his heart is heavily guarded and reasonably so. He is hot and can cook 😍 I loved seeing him become himself again and learning all about him. His reason for his major instantly took my heart.
The twist about their sports was exciting and I laughed so hard I cried tears for the interaction with the niece. This was a perfect sweet story filled with Emotional support pickles, orgasms, and being true to yourself.
The house party had me laughing so hard I cried. The same tone but different t words 🤣🤣🤣
I hope Ruby has a brothers best friend book coming in the future 👀 I seriously loved this book. A few weird moments at the end but it was such a sweet story. I legit was stressing about the app being used for evil the ENTIRE time 🤣
This is a super cute standalone that I hope you enjoy as much as I did!
I kept my review for the end and it's saying he's perfect 😍🥵
September 5, 2024
Charlotte "Charlie" Morgan hooked up with Finn Heaton after finding out in front of her classmates that her boyfriend cheated on her.
She had asked Finn if he was an athlete and he told her he was a Biochem major but he worked out a lot.
She's a social media marketing major and was hoping to get with the basketball team as an intern but was placed with the hockey team instead, something she knows nothing about.
Charlie finds out that Finn is the captain of the hockey team and there is a no fraternization policy and that she could lose her internship and he kicked off the team.
And to top that off her dorm floods, so she and her roommate have to find temporary housing. Turns out the roomie's brother offers a room in his house---the hockey house and yes Finn lives there.
So staying away from him is proving harder than they thought. He's not the typical cocky guy she thought but one who is thoughtful, helpful and one she is falling for.
4 stars
She had asked Finn if he was an athlete and he told her he was a Biochem major but he worked out a lot.
She's a social media marketing major and was hoping to get with the basketball team as an intern but was placed with the hockey team instead, something she knows nothing about.
Charlie finds out that Finn is the captain of the hockey team and there is a no fraternization policy and that she could lose her internship and he kicked off the team.
And to top that off her dorm floods, so she and her roommate have to find temporary housing. Turns out the roomie's brother offers a room in his house---the hockey house and yes Finn lives there.
So staying away from him is proving harder than they thought. He's not the typical cocky guy she thought but one who is thoughtful, helpful and one she is falling for.
4 stars
September 17, 2024
This captivating romance has humor, tension, fantastic characters, witty banter and more. I really enjoyed this story. The chemistry between Finn and Charlie is great. They has so much push and pull that it just sucked you right into their story. I loved all of the side characters too. This is a great start to the series and I am looking forward to more!
September 30, 2024
I almost stopped reading after the first two chapters because I just felt like the writing was pretty, but then there were moments it got way better….
Then it wasn’t and then it was. You get the idea?
I feel like this book would’ve benefited from a heavy edit, but I liked the idea and I liked the side characters and overall it did have me coming back for more.
Then it wasn’t and then it was. You get the idea?
I feel like this book would’ve benefited from a heavy edit, but I liked the idea and I liked the side characters and overall it did have me coming back for more.
September 8, 2024
Humour, tension & heat
Welcome to Riverside U, R.C. Stephens's new series, and boy did she start it with a bang! FACE OFF WITH THE CAPTAIN was such an entertaining read. A girl who doesn't like athletes and a guy who doesn't do relationships, who could ask for a better pairing. A one-time hookup, forced proximity, a forbidden relationship, college hockey romance which had the perfect balance of humour, tension and heat. I cannot give this story enough praise, it was just that good.
Charlotte Morgan had just experienced the most humiliating moment of her life, the last thing she needed was to run into a brick wall named Finn Heaton. A night on the beach together involves drinking, admitting secrets, and unforgettable passion, after which Charlie flees the scene when she wakes in the morning. As part of her Social Media Marketing major Charlie is unexpectedly placed with the hockey team where she learns Finn is the captain and that the team has a no fraternization policy, could the situation get any worse? Yes, it can, especially when her dorm is flooded, and she and her best friend Ruby must find somewhere else to live and end up in the hockey house. Staying away from each other has just become an impossibility.
I absolutely adored Charlie and Finn. Charlie is simply adorable, she's fun, sweet, loyal, hardworking, and has always put others before herself. Finn has the reputation of being a playboy, but what is seen is not necessarily the truth. Yes, he's a charmer, he's also protective, vulnerable, and a guy you just want to be around. Their chemistry was red hot, their banter amusing, and their heat was certainly steamy. I loved the relationship which developed between them, it was realistic, had humour, angst, and plenty of tension. Will they be able to keep their relationship a secret, or will the pressure be too much for them?
FACE OFF WITH THE CAPTAIN had it all: a forbidden romance, wonderful friendships, amazing camaraderie within the hockey team, it's a story with a lot of heart. R.C. Stephens pulled me in and kept me captivated and guessing as to what would be the outcome for Charlie and Finn, as they needed to jump some hurdles to find their HEA. I loved that she brought in some characters from her previous books, it was like coming home. Another unputdownable story and I cannot wait to see whose story is next.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE FORBIDDEN STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
Welcome to Riverside U, R.C. Stephens's new series, and boy did she start it with a bang! FACE OFF WITH THE CAPTAIN was such an entertaining read. A girl who doesn't like athletes and a guy who doesn't do relationships, who could ask for a better pairing. A one-time hookup, forced proximity, a forbidden relationship, college hockey romance which had the perfect balance of humour, tension and heat. I cannot give this story enough praise, it was just that good.
Charlotte Morgan had just experienced the most humiliating moment of her life, the last thing she needed was to run into a brick wall named Finn Heaton. A night on the beach together involves drinking, admitting secrets, and unforgettable passion, after which Charlie flees the scene when she wakes in the morning. As part of her Social Media Marketing major Charlie is unexpectedly placed with the hockey team where she learns Finn is the captain and that the team has a no fraternization policy, could the situation get any worse? Yes, it can, especially when her dorm is flooded, and she and her best friend Ruby must find somewhere else to live and end up in the hockey house. Staying away from each other has just become an impossibility.
I absolutely adored Charlie and Finn. Charlie is simply adorable, she's fun, sweet, loyal, hardworking, and has always put others before herself. Finn has the reputation of being a playboy, but what is seen is not necessarily the truth. Yes, he's a charmer, he's also protective, vulnerable, and a guy you just want to be around. Their chemistry was red hot, their banter amusing, and their heat was certainly steamy. I loved the relationship which developed between them, it was realistic, had humour, angst, and plenty of tension. Will they be able to keep their relationship a secret, or will the pressure be too much for them?
FACE OFF WITH THE CAPTAIN had it all: a forbidden romance, wonderful friendships, amazing camaraderie within the hockey team, it's a story with a lot of heart. R.C. Stephens pulled me in and kept me captivated and guessing as to what would be the outcome for Charlie and Finn, as they needed to jump some hurdles to find their HEA. I loved that she brought in some characters from her previous books, it was like coming home. Another unputdownable story and I cannot wait to see whose story is next.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE FORBIDDEN STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
September 5, 2024
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🏒 College hockey
❤️ Found family
🌶️ All the spice
❤️ Forbidden relationship
🏠 Close proximity
🍆 His member is XL
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Face Off with the Captain by R.C. Stephens is a delightful and steamy romance that blends the excitement of a forbidden relationship with the tension of close-quarters living. The story follows a young woman Charlie who accidentally hooks up with Finn, the captain of the hockey team, only to find herself working as a social media intern for the same team—where fraternization is strictly off-limits.
Charlie's dilemma is both relatable and tantalizing. She’s caught between her professional responsibilities and the undeniable chemistry she shares with Finn. The situation becomes even more complicated when she’s forced to move into the hockey house after her dorm floods, bringing her into even closer proximity with the man she’s trying to avoid.
Finn is initially portrayed as the typical cocky jock, but as the story unfolds, we see that he’s much more than that. His character development is one of the highlights of the book, revealing layers of vulnerability, dedication, and warmth beneath his tough exterior. The dynamic between the two leads shifts from a hot one-night stand to a deeper, more meaningful connection, making their romance all the more compelling.
The tension in the book is palpable, as both characters struggle to maintain their professional boundaries while their feelings for each other grow stronger. The "frenemies-with-benefits" trope is well-executed, providing plenty of banter, sexual tension, and heartfelt moments that keep readers hooked.
R.C. Stephens does a great job of balancing the heat with humor and emotion, creating a story that’s not just about physical attraction, but also about trust, respect, and love. The supporting characters, particularly the other members of the hockey team, add depth and camaraderie to the story, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable read.
Face Off with the Captain is perfect for fans of sports romance, particularly those who enjoy stories with a strong, feisty heroine and a hero who’s more than meets the eye. It’s a fun, flirty, and heartwarming read that will leave you rooting for the couple from start to finish.
🏒 College hockey
❤️ Found family
🌶️ All the spice
❤️ Forbidden relationship
🏠 Close proximity
🍆 His member is XL
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Face Off with the Captain by R.C. Stephens is a delightful and steamy romance that blends the excitement of a forbidden relationship with the tension of close-quarters living. The story follows a young woman Charlie who accidentally hooks up with Finn, the captain of the hockey team, only to find herself working as a social media intern for the same team—where fraternization is strictly off-limits.
Charlie's dilemma is both relatable and tantalizing. She’s caught between her professional responsibilities and the undeniable chemistry she shares with Finn. The situation becomes even more complicated when she’s forced to move into the hockey house after her dorm floods, bringing her into even closer proximity with the man she’s trying to avoid.
Finn is initially portrayed as the typical cocky jock, but as the story unfolds, we see that he’s much more than that. His character development is one of the highlights of the book, revealing layers of vulnerability, dedication, and warmth beneath his tough exterior. The dynamic between the two leads shifts from a hot one-night stand to a deeper, more meaningful connection, making their romance all the more compelling.
The tension in the book is palpable, as both characters struggle to maintain their professional boundaries while their feelings for each other grow stronger. The "frenemies-with-benefits" trope is well-executed, providing plenty of banter, sexual tension, and heartfelt moments that keep readers hooked.
R.C. Stephens does a great job of balancing the heat with humor and emotion, creating a story that’s not just about physical attraction, but also about trust, respect, and love. The supporting characters, particularly the other members of the hockey team, add depth and camaraderie to the story, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable read.
Face Off with the Captain is perfect for fans of sports romance, particularly those who enjoy stories with a strong, feisty heroine and a hero who’s more than meets the eye. It’s a fun, flirty, and heartwarming read that will leave you rooting for the couple from start to finish.
September 8, 2024
I loved this story,it was such a delight to read and Charlie/Charlotte and Finn are electric.
They have one passionate unforgettable night together on the beach,after drinking and spilling out all their troubles to one another.
But Charlie flees in the morning before Finn wakes up resigned to the fact that she would never see him again.
Charlie is a Social media major and her next job is to work with the Riverside U Hockey team..
Finn is the captain to The Riverside U Hockey team and he never thought he would see the woman who ran from him on the beach again.But to both of their surprise they will now be working together that one night stand just became a complication.
Finn and Charlie haven't had an easy start in life and this affects the way they see and navigate relationships.There is alot of tension between them at first but once they start to get comfortable with eachother.They begin to talk and open up and a friendship forms between them an awkward friendship because they are attracted to one another.
Then in a twist of fate when a pipe bursts were Charlie lives she and her friend end up living at the Hockey house while repairs are done so they are in eachothers space more and more and Charlie sees a different side to Finn,one she really likes.
Face Off With The Captain by R.C Stephens is a spicy and emotional read that has great character development.I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Riverside U Getting to know these characters and loving the friendships and the possible future stories they could bring.
Loved it.
5 Stars.
They have one passionate unforgettable night together on the beach,after drinking and spilling out all their troubles to one another.
But Charlie flees in the morning before Finn wakes up resigned to the fact that she would never see him again.
Charlie is a Social media major and her next job is to work with the Riverside U Hockey team..
Finn is the captain to The Riverside U Hockey team and he never thought he would see the woman who ran from him on the beach again.But to both of their surprise they will now be working together that one night stand just became a complication.
Finn and Charlie haven't had an easy start in life and this affects the way they see and navigate relationships.There is alot of tension between them at first but once they start to get comfortable with eachother.They begin to talk and open up and a friendship forms between them an awkward friendship because they are attracted to one another.
Then in a twist of fate when a pipe bursts were Charlie lives she and her friend end up living at the Hockey house while repairs are done so they are in eachothers space more and more and Charlie sees a different side to Finn,one she really likes.
Face Off With The Captain by R.C Stephens is a spicy and emotional read that has great character development.I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Riverside U Getting to know these characters and loving the friendships and the possible future stories they could bring.
Loved it.
5 Stars.
September 7, 2024
Face Off with the Captain is the first book in Riverside U, the new adult series by R.C. Stephens- and she's starting us off with hockey captain, Finn Heaton.
Now, I hate to admit but it took me WAY too long into the story to figure out why I felt like I knew some of the characters. Then I had this aha moment where I realize Finn is the youngest brother of Willow from Forever Player in the Player series. So it's not truly necessary to read that book in order to enjoy this one but there is some overlap in things shared and why certain characters act the way they do that it does help to have that little background knowledge.
Finn and Charlie have this push pull kind of story where they very clearly have this connection but neither one of them wants to admit or act on it... again. But fate seems set on pushing these two together with Charlie both the social media intern for the hockey team and her in need of housing where she just so happens to be best friends with a teammates sister that offered her an empty room in the hockey house.
After their one night together- things get a bit intense between these two, and more in the "irritated by your face and I want you" kind of way followed up with the "my body still craves you" way. Charlie is a fun and sweet character while it's clear that she has not the easiest home life. That was one area that Finn could feel a connection with her- though he would never want to admit it. And while Finn comes off a bit gruff at times- he clearly isn't the typical jock that Charlie initially pegged him for. In fact- even when avoiding her, Finn was likely to run in as her white knight just because he was so drawn to her.
I love the simmering tension between these two and when they finally give into it again... all bets are off because Finn becomes a whole new version of himself. Like he returned to the guy that wanted a steady relationship and feeling of family that came with it. The connection he felt with Charlie also helped put things into perspective for him and what was most important to him. Having never been on the receiving end of that kind of devotion- it became a whole new world for Charlie and I loved that for her.
I'm excited to dive in more to this new series and the guys at Riverside U. Loving the close family like friendships they have and can't wait to dive in more!
Now, I hate to admit but it took me WAY too long into the story to figure out why I felt like I knew some of the characters. Then I had this aha moment where I realize Finn is the youngest brother of Willow from Forever Player in the Player series. So it's not truly necessary to read that book in order to enjoy this one but there is some overlap in things shared and why certain characters act the way they do that it does help to have that little background knowledge.
Finn and Charlie have this push pull kind of story where they very clearly have this connection but neither one of them wants to admit or act on it... again. But fate seems set on pushing these two together with Charlie both the social media intern for the hockey team and her in need of housing where she just so happens to be best friends with a teammates sister that offered her an empty room in the hockey house.
After their one night together- things get a bit intense between these two, and more in the "irritated by your face and I want you" kind of way followed up with the "my body still craves you" way. Charlie is a fun and sweet character while it's clear that she has not the easiest home life. That was one area that Finn could feel a connection with her- though he would never want to admit it. And while Finn comes off a bit gruff at times- he clearly isn't the typical jock that Charlie initially pegged him for. In fact- even when avoiding her, Finn was likely to run in as her white knight just because he was so drawn to her.
I love the simmering tension between these two and when they finally give into it again... all bets are off because Finn becomes a whole new version of himself. Like he returned to the guy that wanted a steady relationship and feeling of family that came with it. The connection he felt with Charlie also helped put things into perspective for him and what was most important to him. Having never been on the receiving end of that kind of devotion- it became a whole new world for Charlie and I loved that for her.
I'm excited to dive in more to this new series and the guys at Riverside U. Loving the close family like friendships they have and can't wait to dive in more!
September 16, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This was all go go go from the prologue. I loved it and I really did struggle to put it down. Charlie's and Finn's relationship started strangers to enemies with benefits to friends eventually to lovers.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Both Charlie and Finnhave made it to this prestigious Uni by get a scholarship on their sports talent.
It starts off with Charlie boyfriend being caught cheating in front of her whole class. When she runs away she bumps into Finns. She doesn't know who he is and he protects her from her now ex boyfriend. Finns helps her by showing her what a real man feels like.
Next day Charlie starts her internship and bumps into her knight in shining armour as a hockey teams captain!! She doesn't date athletes. They end up being enemies and off Limits due to rules.
But their chemistry is so strong they really struggle.
Charlie is very cute smart and really kind and caring.
Finns was cheated on too so he doesn't do relationships and is very grumpy and rude.
But as they know each other she sees the real him, that is actually very sweet and cares for those close to him.
Her ex continues to cause issues, their fight for resisting is getting weak as time goes by. Can they both keep their career and have each other one time?
I loved how they respected each other and how their relationship grew. I tell you them resisting was so hard for me as a reader haha. I was on the edge wanting this for them.. Also not to mention his past comes back. Will he leave Charlie for his ex?
I will leave it for you to read and find the answers..
Great group of friends, family and great banter too. Soo much chemistry and spice.
Can't wait for rest of the groups story, I can already see a few brewing in the background. I honestly loved all the characters and bit just the main ones.
“I may be a science nerd, as you’ve suggested, but I know my way around a girl’s clitoris,”
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This was all go go go from the prologue. I loved it and I really did struggle to put it down. Charlie's and Finn's relationship started strangers to enemies with benefits to friends eventually to lovers.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Both Charlie and Finnhave made it to this prestigious Uni by get a scholarship on their sports talent.
It starts off with Charlie boyfriend being caught cheating in front of her whole class. When she runs away she bumps into Finns. She doesn't know who he is and he protects her from her now ex boyfriend. Finns helps her by showing her what a real man feels like.
Next day Charlie starts her internship and bumps into her knight in shining armour as a hockey teams captain!! She doesn't date athletes. They end up being enemies and off Limits due to rules.
But their chemistry is so strong they really struggle.
Charlie is very cute smart and really kind and caring.
Finns was cheated on too so he doesn't do relationships and is very grumpy and rude.
But as they know each other she sees the real him, that is actually very sweet and cares for those close to him.
Her ex continues to cause issues, their fight for resisting is getting weak as time goes by. Can they both keep their career and have each other one time?
I loved how they respected each other and how their relationship grew. I tell you them resisting was so hard for me as a reader haha. I was on the edge wanting this for them.. Also not to mention his past comes back. Will he leave Charlie for his ex?
I will leave it for you to read and find the answers..
Great group of friends, family and great banter too. Soo much chemistry and spice.
Can't wait for rest of the groups story, I can already see a few brewing in the background. I honestly loved all the characters and bit just the main ones.
“I may be a science nerd, as you’ve suggested, but I know my way around a girl’s clitoris,”
September 10, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the first book in the Riverside U Series. This is a hockey, enemies to lovers romance. This is the story of Finn and Charlie. He is the Captain of the Hockey team at Riverside U. Charlie is a student that is studying social media marketing. She has dreams of interning for the basketball team. Instead she is placed with he hockey team. That would be perfectly fine if she knew anything about hockey. But she doesn't. When she finds out that her boyfriend is cheating on her it is in front of all her classmates. Enter Finn who she suspects is an athlete, but he tells her that he is a Biochem major. There attraction is instant and they end up having the time of their lives. But she ends up leaving him sleeping on the beach while she sneaks off. Now they are thrown together as she is an intern for his team. However, there is a hitch. The team has a strict no fraternization policy. To late for them, so this can never happen again. Which is fine since he hates her now for leaving him alone on a beach. However, things are about to get a whole lot worse for her when her dorm floods and she and her roomie are forced to take up the brothers offer of a room in the house he lives in. The hockey house where Finn is also a resident. She has to stay away from him. No matter how attractive she finds him the fraternization policy is one that neither of them can afford to get caught breaking. Will they or won't they? I can't tell you of course. You are going to love reading this story. I had so much fun reading it..I loved all the characters in this book. They are so easy to fall for and you can see yourself being people that you could be good friends with. This is going to be a great series. I can't wait to see whose book we get next.
This is the first book in the Riverside U Series. This is a hockey, enemies to lovers romance. This is the story of Finn and Charlie. He is the Captain of the Hockey team at Riverside U. Charlie is a student that is studying social media marketing. She has dreams of interning for the basketball team. Instead she is placed with he hockey team. That would be perfectly fine if she knew anything about hockey. But she doesn't. When she finds out that her boyfriend is cheating on her it is in front of all her classmates. Enter Finn who she suspects is an athlete, but he tells her that he is a Biochem major. There attraction is instant and they end up having the time of their lives. But she ends up leaving him sleeping on the beach while she sneaks off. Now they are thrown together as she is an intern for his team. However, there is a hitch. The team has a strict no fraternization policy. To late for them, so this can never happen again. Which is fine since he hates her now for leaving him alone on a beach. However, things are about to get a whole lot worse for her when her dorm floods and she and her roomie are forced to take up the brothers offer of a room in the house he lives in. The hockey house where Finn is also a resident. She has to stay away from him. No matter how attractive she finds him the fraternization policy is one that neither of them can afford to get caught breaking. Will they or won't they? I can't tell you of course. You are going to love reading this story. I had so much fun reading it..I loved all the characters in this book. They are so easy to fall for and you can see yourself being people that you could be good friends with. This is going to be a great series. I can't wait to see whose book we get next.
September 6, 2024
Wow it's time for Finn's story. He is now the captain of the Riverside U's hockey team. Charlie Morgan is a senior at Riverside U and a social media major. She was devastated when her boyfriend of 7 months mistakenly projects him cheating on her in their social media class and she runs out of the room and into Finn's arms. Now that was serendipity!
They end up talking and spending the night on the beach. Finn tells her beforehand that he is not a relationship guy and Charlie admits she is not looking for anything from him. She leaves him on the beach when she is called to begin her internship with the school hockey team instead of the basketball team and guess who she sees at the training center? That's right, Finn.
After one disaster after another, Charlie and her best friend Ruby move into the hockey house where her brother lives, because their dorm was damaged by a burst water pipe. She knew it was a mistake to live there since she is working for their team but Ruby convinces her that her brother insists they stay and save their refund money. She agrees because she can't tell Ruby no and the weather was still summer hot and the replacement dorm had no AC.
At first it seemed like Finn was upset at her but she didn't understand why until he admitted that she left him at the beach and he was not happy about that. Once they got over the awkwardness, they were able to have conversations and ended up as friends with crazy tension. The book was so sweet and full of angst. I loved all the feels, Ms. Stephens did a great job, love her stories.
I received an advance copy for my honest opinion.
They end up talking and spending the night on the beach. Finn tells her beforehand that he is not a relationship guy and Charlie admits she is not looking for anything from him. She leaves him on the beach when she is called to begin her internship with the school hockey team instead of the basketball team and guess who she sees at the training center? That's right, Finn.
After one disaster after another, Charlie and her best friend Ruby move into the hockey house where her brother lives, because their dorm was damaged by a burst water pipe. She knew it was a mistake to live there since she is working for their team but Ruby convinces her that her brother insists they stay and save their refund money. She agrees because she can't tell Ruby no and the weather was still summer hot and the replacement dorm had no AC.
At first it seemed like Finn was upset at her but she didn't understand why until he admitted that she left him at the beach and he was not happy about that. Once they got over the awkwardness, they were able to have conversations and ended up as friends with crazy tension. The book was so sweet and full of angst. I loved all the feels, Ms. Stephens did a great job, love her stories.
I received an advance copy for my honest opinion.
September 10, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
Charlotte Morgan found out that her boyfriend of seven months is cheating on her in front of their entire class. She was hurt and humiliated so ran out of class and slammed into a brick wall of muscle named Finn Heaton. He warned off her cheating boyfriend who chased after her and they gone for coffee.
They ended up spending a night together on a beach and she left before he woke up. She found out last night that she will be interning for a college hockey team even though she wanted to intern for the basketball team. She needed to be there by 7 am, so she hurried to her dorm to not to find out that the dorm was flooded and they all needed to vacate in an hour. Seeing as her best friend’s/roommate’s brother leaves in a hockey house, Ruby suggested to leave their things there for the time being until they figured out their living arrangement for the night.
When she saw Finn at the sports centre, she was shocked to find out that he is the captain of the hockey team. And Finn wants nothing to do with her, seeing as she left without waking him up. But now with her working as a social media manager for the team and living in his house, he has a hard time avoiding her.
I loved how their relationship progressed even though they both could get in trouble. The camaraderie and banter between the players was epic and hilarious.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a forbidden, forced proximity, college, hockey romance then you’re going to love it.
Charlotte Morgan found out that her boyfriend of seven months is cheating on her in front of their entire class. She was hurt and humiliated so ran out of class and slammed into a brick wall of muscle named Finn Heaton. He warned off her cheating boyfriend who chased after her and they gone for coffee.
They ended up spending a night together on a beach and she left before he woke up. She found out last night that she will be interning for a college hockey team even though she wanted to intern for the basketball team. She needed to be there by 7 am, so she hurried to her dorm to not to find out that the dorm was flooded and they all needed to vacate in an hour. Seeing as her best friend’s/roommate’s brother leaves in a hockey house, Ruby suggested to leave their things there for the time being until they figured out their living arrangement for the night.
When she saw Finn at the sports centre, she was shocked to find out that he is the captain of the hockey team. And Finn wants nothing to do with her, seeing as she left without waking him up. But now with her working as a social media manager for the team and living in his house, he has a hard time avoiding her.
I loved how their relationship progressed even though they both could get in trouble. The camaraderie and banter between the players was epic and hilarious.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a forbidden, forced proximity, college, hockey romance then you’re going to love it.
September 12, 2024
Finn is the Captain on the Capital U hockey team. He is also a senior. He loves science, he's a biochem major. He would rather be in the lab working on assignments than on the ice. But, he knows he has the scholarship to be on the hockey team, it's just helping him get through college he would be able to afford on his own.
Finn lives in the hockey house with some other players. He's always a grump. But, when he meets Charlie she helps soften him. Finn isn't sure he wants to go to the NHL, he feels like that has been his brother's calling, not so much his. He wants to be in the labs helping to find cures for illnesses - cancer's specifically.
Charlie was dating a guy, but, after the video of him in a threesome showed during their marketing class, she left him. Charlie ran right into Finn, and they developed a frenemies-with-benefits situationship. Charlie has always sworn off athletes, always saying she wouldn't date an athlete. Charlie and her friend Ruby, who is also Hayden's sister, wind up having to move into the hockey house as their dorm flooded. Hayden is on the hockey team and has always warned the guys to stay away from Ruby & Charlie. Having to be around Finn 24/7 basically means they do get close and have something they shouldn't, a whole lot of flirting.
Charlie is on the track team for the school, and she has maintained great grades keeping her on the Dean's list each semester. Her track coach wants her to try out for Team USA for the Olympics. Something she's never even thought about. But, will her relationship with Finn hold her back?
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest book review.
Finn lives in the hockey house with some other players. He's always a grump. But, when he meets Charlie she helps soften him. Finn isn't sure he wants to go to the NHL, he feels like that has been his brother's calling, not so much his. He wants to be in the labs helping to find cures for illnesses - cancer's specifically.
Charlie was dating a guy, but, after the video of him in a threesome showed during their marketing class, she left him. Charlie ran right into Finn, and they developed a frenemies-with-benefits situationship. Charlie has always sworn off athletes, always saying she wouldn't date an athlete. Charlie and her friend Ruby, who is also Hayden's sister, wind up having to move into the hockey house as their dorm flooded. Hayden is on the hockey team and has always warned the guys to stay away from Ruby & Charlie. Having to be around Finn 24/7 basically means they do get close and have something they shouldn't, a whole lot of flirting.
Charlie is on the track team for the school, and she has maintained great grades keeping her on the Dean's list each semester. Her track coach wants her to try out for Team USA for the Olympics. Something she's never even thought about. But, will her relationship with Finn hold her back?
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest book review.
August 14, 2024
Check out these amazing tropes!!!!
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🏒 College hockey
❤️ Found family
🌶️ All the spice
❤️ Forbidden relationship
🏠 Close proximity
🍆 His member is XL
Pre-order FREE in kindle Unlimited or for a special release price:
Amazon US: [https://amzn.to/462J2Yz](https://amzn...
Amazon ca: [https://amzn.to/3Y8IA96](https://amzn...
Amazon UK: [https://amzn.to/4cOZXjI](https://amzn...
Amazon AU: [https://bit.ly/4fdHzTw](https://bit.l...
BLURB
I accidentally hooked up with the captain of the hockey team…
In my defense, it was before I landed the social media internship—and learned about the strict no fraternization policy.
Not that it matters. I’m pretty sure he hates me after I took off and left him sleeping on the beach.
I’m forced to work closely with the angry captain and all I can think about is the steamy night we spent together. And how it can’t happen again, because if word gets out it could cost us both everything.
Keeping my distance is harder than I thought when my dorm floods and my temporary housing is— you guessed it. The hockey house.
Being under the same roof, I see Finn in a whole new light.
He’s not just the cocky jock I pegged him as.
He’s so much more, and it pushes the boundaries of our frenemies-with-benefits situationship.
Now I’m not just facing off with the captain… I’m falling head over heels for him.
#preorder #newrelease #riversideu #enemiestolovers #forbidden #hockeyromancebooks #bookboyfriend #booktok
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🏒 College hockey
❤️ Found family
🌶️ All the spice
❤️ Forbidden relationship
🏠 Close proximity
🍆 His member is XL
Pre-order FREE in kindle Unlimited or for a special release price:
Amazon US: [https://amzn.to/462J2Yz](https://amzn...
Amazon ca: [https://amzn.to/3Y8IA96](https://amzn...
Amazon UK: [https://amzn.to/4cOZXjI](https://amzn...
Amazon AU: [https://bit.ly/4fdHzTw](https://bit.l...
BLURB
I accidentally hooked up with the captain of the hockey team…
In my defense, it was before I landed the social media internship—and learned about the strict no fraternization policy.
Not that it matters. I’m pretty sure he hates me after I took off and left him sleeping on the beach.
I’m forced to work closely with the angry captain and all I can think about is the steamy night we spent together. And how it can’t happen again, because if word gets out it could cost us both everything.
Keeping my distance is harder than I thought when my dorm floods and my temporary housing is— you guessed it. The hockey house.
Being under the same roof, I see Finn in a whole new light.
He’s not just the cocky jock I pegged him as.
He’s so much more, and it pushes the boundaries of our frenemies-with-benefits situationship.
Now I’m not just facing off with the captain… I’m falling head over heels for him.
#preorder #newrelease #riversideu #enemiestolovers #forbidden #hockeyromancebooks #bookboyfriend #booktok
September 7, 2024
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 is the first book in the Riverside U Hockey series by R.C. Stephens, featuring an entertaining one-night stand, enemies to lovers, sports romance for Charlie and Finn. In an embarrassing and vulnerable moment, found solace with with a hot stranger for a night, before starting her internship as the hockey team’s new social media coordinator. Imagine her surprise when the guy she ghosted is the Captain of the team. As if things couldn’t get any worse, a flooded dorm left her with one housing option… the hockey house with Finn and his teammates. As they get to know each other and the anger melts into real feelings, will they break the rules and risk losing it all for a chance at love?
What a great way to start a series!! Charlie and Finn are fabulous characters, written with emotional depth, relatability, compassion, and 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚!!🥵🔥Their meet-cute was fantastic, and I enjoyed the two-athlete theme, which highlighted Charlie’s bada$$ery in a fun way!😉 The story had the perfect amount of drama, great supporting characters that brought plenty of banter and a found family vibe. I loved the way the hockey guys accepted Charlie into their “family,” and it was also great to see Brent and Willow and the rest of Finn’s family as well! I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!
I received a free ARC, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶
#FaceOffWithTheCaptain #rcstephens #riversideu #sportsromance #OneNightStand #enemiestolovers #forbiddenlove #FoundFamily
What a great way to start a series!! Charlie and Finn are fabulous characters, written with emotional depth, relatability, compassion, and 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚!!🥵🔥Their meet-cute was fantastic, and I enjoyed the two-athlete theme, which highlighted Charlie’s bada$$ery in a fun way!😉 The story had the perfect amount of drama, great supporting characters that brought plenty of banter and a found family vibe. I loved the way the hockey guys accepted Charlie into their “family,” and it was also great to see Brent and Willow and the rest of Finn’s family as well! I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!
I received a free ARC, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶
#FaceOffWithTheCaptain #rcstephens #riversideu #sportsromance #OneNightStand #enemiestolovers #forbiddenlove #FoundFamily
September 9, 2024
I loved this story, it was such a delight to read and Charlie/Charlotte and Finn are electric.
They have one passionate unforgettable night together on the beach, after drinking and spilling out all their troubles to one another. But Charlie flees in the morning before Finn wakes up resigned to the fact that she would never see him again. Charlie is a Social media major and her next job is to work with the Riverside U Hockey team. Finn is the captain to The Riverside U Hockey team and he never thought he would see the woman who ran from him on the beach again. But to both of their surprise they will now be working together that one night stand just became a complication.
Finn and Charlie haven't had an easy start in life and this affects the way they see and navigate relationships. There is a lot of tension between them at first but once they start to get comfortable with each other. They begin to talk and open up and a friendship forms between them an awkward friendship because they are attracted to one another. Then in a twist of fate when a pipe bursts where Charlie lives, she and her friend end up living at the Hockey house while repairs are done so they are in each others space more and more and Charlie sees a different side to Finn, one she really likes. Face Off With The Captain by R.C. Stephens is a spicy and emotional read that has great character development. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Riverside U getting to know these characters and loving the friendships and the possible future stories they could bring. Loved it.
5 Stars.- Cat W.
They have one passionate unforgettable night together on the beach, after drinking and spilling out all their troubles to one another. But Charlie flees in the morning before Finn wakes up resigned to the fact that she would never see him again. Charlie is a Social media major and her next job is to work with the Riverside U Hockey team. Finn is the captain to The Riverside U Hockey team and he never thought he would see the woman who ran from him on the beach again. But to both of their surprise they will now be working together that one night stand just became a complication.
Finn and Charlie haven't had an easy start in life and this affects the way they see and navigate relationships. There is a lot of tension between them at first but once they start to get comfortable with each other. They begin to talk and open up and a friendship forms between them an awkward friendship because they are attracted to one another. Then in a twist of fate when a pipe bursts where Charlie lives, she and her friend end up living at the Hockey house while repairs are done so they are in each others space more and more and Charlie sees a different side to Finn, one she really likes. Face Off With The Captain by R.C. Stephens is a spicy and emotional read that has great character development. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Riverside U getting to know these characters and loving the friendships and the possible future stories they could bring. Loved it.
5 Stars.- Cat W.
September 14, 2024
I just finished reading Face Off With The Captain by R.C. Stephens, and I really enjoyed it! This contemporary romance had all the elements I love: humor, relatable characters, and a captivating storyline that kept me turning the pages.
The story revolves around a girl who has sworn off dating athletes and a charming captain who seems to challenge her resolve. I found the chemistry between the main characters to be fantastic! Their witty banter and playful interactions made me smile, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. It felt genuine and refreshing, which is something I always appreciate in a romance.
R.C. Stephens does a great job of exploring themes like commitment and vulnerability, which resonated with me. The characters were well-developed, and I found myself rooting for them as they navigated their fears and insecurities. The pacing was mostly spot-on, though there were a few moments where the plot felt a bit predictable.
What I particularly enjoyed was the lighthearted tone mixed with deeper emotional moments. It struck a nice balance that made the story both entertaining and meaningful. The author’s writing style is engaging and easy to read, which made it hard for me to put the book down!
Overall, I’d give Face Off With The Captain a solid four stars. It’s a delightful read that offers a charming escape into the world of romance and sports. If you’re looking for a fun, feel-good story, I highly recommend giving this one a try!
The story revolves around a girl who has sworn off dating athletes and a charming captain who seems to challenge her resolve. I found the chemistry between the main characters to be fantastic! Their witty banter and playful interactions made me smile, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. It felt genuine and refreshing, which is something I always appreciate in a romance.
R.C. Stephens does a great job of exploring themes like commitment and vulnerability, which resonated with me. The characters were well-developed, and I found myself rooting for them as they navigated their fears and insecurities. The pacing was mostly spot-on, though there were a few moments where the plot felt a bit predictable.
What I particularly enjoyed was the lighthearted tone mixed with deeper emotional moments. It struck a nice balance that made the story both entertaining and meaningful. The author’s writing style is engaging and easy to read, which made it hard for me to put the book down!
Overall, I’d give Face Off With The Captain a solid four stars. It’s a delightful read that offers a charming escape into the world of romance and sports. If you’re looking for a fun, feel-good story, I highly recommend giving this one a try!
September 9, 2024
Face Off with the Captain is the first book in RC Stephens new Riverside U series. We met our hero, Finn, in the last book of her Player series because he is Willow’s younger brother who was still in high school at the time.
Now Finn is in his senior year of college and is captain of the hockey team and is a playboy after his high school girlfriend cheated on him. Charlie is a member of the school’s track team and is excited about her social media internship this year hoping to work with the basketball team. But things don’t go Charlie’s way when her whole internship class learns her boyfriend is cheating on her. When she runs out of class, she’s rescued by Finn not knowing who he is and spends the night with him at the beach forgetting what just happened to her. They say bad things happen in threes. First, she gets assigned to the hockey team, then she learns her dorm floods and when she’s forced to move into the hockey house temporarily she discovers who Finn is and despite their attraction being off the chart they can’t go there again.
The push and pull between Charlie and Finn was spot on and they just clicked. They shared a connection they hadn’t felt with anyone else and they constantly tried to put the other before themselves. I’m excited for this new hockey series because all the hockey boys in the house were super sweet with Charlie and supportive of her and Finn.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author and @greyspromo for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
Now Finn is in his senior year of college and is captain of the hockey team and is a playboy after his high school girlfriend cheated on him. Charlie is a member of the school’s track team and is excited about her social media internship this year hoping to work with the basketball team. But things don’t go Charlie’s way when her whole internship class learns her boyfriend is cheating on her. When she runs out of class, she’s rescued by Finn not knowing who he is and spends the night with him at the beach forgetting what just happened to her. They say bad things happen in threes. First, she gets assigned to the hockey team, then she learns her dorm floods and when she’s forced to move into the hockey house temporarily she discovers who Finn is and despite their attraction being off the chart they can’t go there again.
The push and pull between Charlie and Finn was spot on and they just clicked. They shared a connection they hadn’t felt with anyone else and they constantly tried to put the other before themselves. I’m excited for this new hockey series because all the hockey boys in the house were super sweet with Charlie and supportive of her and Finn.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author and @greyspromo for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
September 10, 2024
When Charlie found out her boyfriend had cheated on her with not one but two women, needing to feel desirable, she indulged in a one-night stand thinking she’d never see Finn again. How could she have known this would come back to haunt her. Finn turned out to be the captain of the ice hockey team, the very team she’s just been assigned an internship with to do their social media. And the coincidences kept piling up when a flood in her house saw her moving into the hockey house.
I loved everything about Face Off with the Captain, from the characters to the storyline with its slowburn romance as Charlie and Finn struggled to keep their hands off each other despite their getting off on the wrong foot. Finn especially had been a bit evasive with the truth of who he was, but the chemistry sizzled every time they were near each other leading to some sneaking around, hiding their non-relationship from their fellow housemates but always lurking in the background was Charlie’s ex, determined to win her back or destroy her life. There was some angst to the overall story especially for Charlie, dealing with her father’s mental health issues but Finn didn’t have the best parental history either giving them something in common. With a strong cast of secondary characters, mainly Finn’s fellow teammates I’m hoping it won't be long before we return to Riverside University for more from the hockey team.
I loved everything about Face Off with the Captain, from the characters to the storyline with its slowburn romance as Charlie and Finn struggled to keep their hands off each other despite their getting off on the wrong foot. Finn especially had been a bit evasive with the truth of who he was, but the chemistry sizzled every time they were near each other leading to some sneaking around, hiding their non-relationship from their fellow housemates but always lurking in the background was Charlie’s ex, determined to win her back or destroy her life. There was some angst to the overall story especially for Charlie, dealing with her father’s mental health issues but Finn didn’t have the best parental history either giving them something in common. With a strong cast of secondary characters, mainly Finn’s fellow teammates I’m hoping it won't be long before we return to Riverside University for more from the hockey team.
September 11, 2024
Hockey romances are one of my favourites ever 😫😫 These two were phenomenal! Their chemistry is electrifying from the first time they met.
Finn is an absolute sweetheart and Love 😍🤭 Tall, mysterious, protective, touch her and die, a man of few words, a hockey captain and a science student 😫 He's totally my type. I adored him so much!!! Charlotte is on the college running team and is a social media marketing student. She's hoping for an internship with the basketball team but instead she ends up with the hockey team. The best internship ever 😈😏🤭 She's feisty, brave, protective, intelligent, beautiful and confident.
The banter between these two was hilarious and I loved every second of it 🤭 The spicy scenes were 🔥
Finn meets Charlie when she's running away from her boyfriend after he humiliates her and was found to be cheating!! Infront of the entire class. I felt so sorry for Charlie here, but I admire how strong, and brave she was and continued to be throughout this book.
The secondary characters were amazing, I loved and adored them all! Cade needs to find his woman! He's my favourite out of everyone! I totally need a book about them all tbh! I have a guess on the next couple and I just hope I'm right 😫 RC, please tell me it is who I think it is! I can't wait to find out ❤
Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity RC Stephens and Greys Promo 😍❤ I loved Finn and Charlotte and can't wait to see what else RC has in store for us 🤭
Finn is an absolute sweetheart and Love 😍🤭 Tall, mysterious, protective, touch her and die, a man of few words, a hockey captain and a science student 😫 He's totally my type. I adored him so much!!! Charlotte is on the college running team and is a social media marketing student. She's hoping for an internship with the basketball team but instead she ends up with the hockey team. The best internship ever 😈😏🤭 She's feisty, brave, protective, intelligent, beautiful and confident.
The banter between these two was hilarious and I loved every second of it 🤭 The spicy scenes were 🔥
Finn meets Charlie when she's running away from her boyfriend after he humiliates her and was found to be cheating!! Infront of the entire class. I felt so sorry for Charlie here, but I admire how strong, and brave she was and continued to be throughout this book.
The secondary characters were amazing, I loved and adored them all! Cade needs to find his woman! He's my favourite out of everyone! I totally need a book about them all tbh! I have a guess on the next couple and I just hope I'm right 😫 RC, please tell me it is who I think it is! I can't wait to find out ❤
Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity RC Stephens and Greys Promo 😍❤ I loved Finn and Charlotte and can't wait to see what else RC has in store for us 🤭
September 12, 2024
4.5 stars
Welcome to Riverside U and the hockey team in particular. This is a new series with some familiar faces from previous series.
We get a college romance that has slow burn and self-discovery as well as some great banter and character development.
We have Charolette "Charlie" who is a social media major/track athlete who is focused and determined with the weight of the world on her shoulders; more than some realize. She goes a on journey of figuring out that what she thought she wanted/needed in life wasn't what really matter or was truly what she wanted in life.
We have Finn Heaton who is the younger sibling of Willow who we met in the "Forever Player" book who has sworn off relationships and doesn't want the complications that come with it. He is at school pursuing a double majoring and playing hockey. As always there is more to him than meets the eye as well and while you catch a glimpse in "Forever Player" you really get a sense of the amazing young man deep down who has a big heart.
They get thrown together after a very "beachy" start to their relationship. It was fun to see these two grow together and discover things about themselves, friends and family. It was a little bit of a slow burn after the initial meet but that was ok because you saw the character development.
I am excited to see where this series takes us and which side character gets center stage next. I did receive an ARC for an honest review and was so blessed for the chance.
Welcome to Riverside U and the hockey team in particular. This is a new series with some familiar faces from previous series.
We get a college romance that has slow burn and self-discovery as well as some great banter and character development.
We have Charolette "Charlie" who is a social media major/track athlete who is focused and determined with the weight of the world on her shoulders; more than some realize. She goes a on journey of figuring out that what she thought she wanted/needed in life wasn't what really matter or was truly what she wanted in life.
We have Finn Heaton who is the younger sibling of Willow who we met in the "Forever Player" book who has sworn off relationships and doesn't want the complications that come with it. He is at school pursuing a double majoring and playing hockey. As always there is more to him than meets the eye as well and while you catch a glimpse in "Forever Player" you really get a sense of the amazing young man deep down who has a big heart.
They get thrown together after a very "beachy" start to their relationship. It was fun to see these two grow together and discover things about themselves, friends and family. It was a little bit of a slow burn after the initial meet but that was ok because you saw the character development.
I am excited to see where this series takes us and which side character gets center stage next. I did receive an ARC for an honest review and was so blessed for the chance.
September 17, 2024
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I have read RC Stephens' series previous to this, and going in, I did not realize this was Willow Noble's brother! Brett and Willow are complete couple's goals for me, so I was very very excited when I realized this was Willow's brother, Finn! And Finn's all grown up and playing hockey in college - as is the family way, right? haha But he goes out of his way one night to help Charlotte after her boyfriend humiliates her in front of a class they share together, and one thing leads to another - with Charlie leaving Finn asleep on the beach.
But you know that can't be the end, right? Charlie ends up assigned to the hockey team as social media coordinator, and they have to keep their hook up on the down low... but then Charlie ends up having to live in the same house as Finn, and their attraction may be too difficult to keep under wraps, as they realize they can't keep it from their housemates.
The tension was so much fun in this one because you just know Finn's a big softie where Charlie is concerned. At one point, he helps with a situation with her family that was just so heart warming. Even when he doesn't think he's falling for Charlie, you can tell by his actions that he's met his one. Their chemistry is fire, with steamy scenes that made me fan myself a bit haha Finn is one of my favorite RC Stephen's characters!
I have read RC Stephens' series previous to this, and going in, I did not realize this was Willow Noble's brother! Brett and Willow are complete couple's goals for me, so I was very very excited when I realized this was Willow's brother, Finn! And Finn's all grown up and playing hockey in college - as is the family way, right? haha But he goes out of his way one night to help Charlotte after her boyfriend humiliates her in front of a class they share together, and one thing leads to another - with Charlie leaving Finn asleep on the beach.
But you know that can't be the end, right? Charlie ends up assigned to the hockey team as social media coordinator, and they have to keep their hook up on the down low... but then Charlie ends up having to live in the same house as Finn, and their attraction may be too difficult to keep under wraps, as they realize they can't keep it from their housemates.
The tension was so much fun in this one because you just know Finn's a big softie where Charlie is concerned. At one point, he helps with a situation with her family that was just so heart warming. Even when he doesn't think he's falling for Charlie, you can tell by his actions that he's met his one. Their chemistry is fire, with steamy scenes that made me fan myself a bit haha Finn is one of my favorite RC Stephen's characters!
September 10, 2024
Review:
🏒Face Off With The Captain🏒
Riverside U #1
By R.C. Stephens
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
🏒 Forced Proximity
Not an average college romance
Charlie
Caring, supporting but hesitant
Finn
Closed off, torn about his future, caring
This College / Sports romance is not like the usual ones. The themes and characters have so much more depth, meaning and emotions.
Life has not been easy for Charlie and Finn.
Parents that would not or could not do the job of proper parenting. It affected both.
They are athletes but look at their Sports differently, and more so throughout the story.
They meet by coincidence in an uncomfortable incident. And confide in each other as completely strangers.
With the knowledge of possibly not seeing each other again, life throws them curveball after curveball and makes everything really hard and difficult for them.
But a forced proximity, working together and getting to know the other one better also brings out a lot of tension and emotions.
Life goals change, sights change and wants do too. How do they come out of their complex situation? Time will tell.
I liked Charlie. A refreshing young girl. Despite her heavy life situation She is a caring, supporting and selfless person. But she wears her heart on her tongue and says what she thinks.
Finn I could relate to. He was closed off for more reasons but slowly opened up. And that he did beautifully.
Both did a lot of growing up and maturing. It wasn't easy, sometimes hard and painful, but always in the right way and direction.
Wonderful story, and can't wait for the other characters to tell theirs.
🏒Face Off With The Captain🏒
Riverside U #1
By R.C. Stephens
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
🏒 Forced Proximity
Not an average college romance
Charlie
Caring, supporting but hesitant
Finn
Closed off, torn about his future, caring
This College / Sports romance is not like the usual ones. The themes and characters have so much more depth, meaning and emotions.
Life has not been easy for Charlie and Finn.
Parents that would not or could not do the job of proper parenting. It affected both.
They are athletes but look at their Sports differently, and more so throughout the story.
They meet by coincidence in an uncomfortable incident. And confide in each other as completely strangers.
With the knowledge of possibly not seeing each other again, life throws them curveball after curveball and makes everything really hard and difficult for them.
But a forced proximity, working together and getting to know the other one better also brings out a lot of tension and emotions.
Life goals change, sights change and wants do too. How do they come out of their complex situation? Time will tell.
I liked Charlie. A refreshing young girl. Despite her heavy life situation She is a caring, supporting and selfless person. But she wears her heart on her tongue and says what she thinks.
Finn I could relate to. He was closed off for more reasons but slowly opened up. And that he did beautifully.
Both did a lot of growing up and maturing. It wasn't easy, sometimes hard and painful, but always in the right way and direction.
Wonderful story, and can't wait for the other characters to tell theirs.
September 18, 2024
-🏒 Hockey/Track Romance
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Romance
-“Workplace” Romance (college hockey player and team social media intern)
-Enemies to Lovers
This gave me Pride and Prejudice vibes if Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy would have met by having a hookup. 😂 The banter between Charlie and Finn is on point.
Charlie met Finn by literally running into him as she was escaping a humiliating scene in her class where she found out her boyfriend of six months cheated on her. Finn gave her a night she would never forget, but Charlie panicked and snuck off in the morning without saying goodbye. Finn was upset because he is a bit of a player after being hurt by his high school sweetheart and he is always the one doing the leaving. What started as a one night stand becomes two people forced to live and work together. They have sizzling chemistry, but can’t stand each other… or is it they can’t stand being away from each other?
I really enjoyed watching Finn and Charlie find themselves and fall in love. I also loved the mental health representation we saw in Charlie’s dad and the importance of therapy and just having companionship and someone to talk to. I also loved the girl power moments when Charlie races the hockey players. 💪🏼 I cannot wait to read the other books in this series. I’m hoping for a brother’s best friend trope in the future. Until then I’ll be reading all of R.C. Stephen’s books because this is the first book of theirs I have read and now I want more!
Thank you to R.C. Stephens and Grey’s Promotions for providing me an ARC to read and review.
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Romance
-“Workplace” Romance (college hockey player and team social media intern)
-Enemies to Lovers
This gave me Pride and Prejudice vibes if Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy would have met by having a hookup. 😂 The banter between Charlie and Finn is on point.
Charlie met Finn by literally running into him as she was escaping a humiliating scene in her class where she found out her boyfriend of six months cheated on her. Finn gave her a night she would never forget, but Charlie panicked and snuck off in the morning without saying goodbye. Finn was upset because he is a bit of a player after being hurt by his high school sweetheart and he is always the one doing the leaving. What started as a one night stand becomes two people forced to live and work together. They have sizzling chemistry, but can’t stand each other… or is it they can’t stand being away from each other?
I really enjoyed watching Finn and Charlie find themselves and fall in love. I also loved the mental health representation we saw in Charlie’s dad and the importance of therapy and just having companionship and someone to talk to. I also loved the girl power moments when Charlie races the hockey players. 💪🏼 I cannot wait to read the other books in this series. I’m hoping for a brother’s best friend trope in the future. Until then I’ll be reading all of R.C. Stephen’s books because this is the first book of theirs I have read and now I want more!
Thank you to R.C. Stephens and Grey’s Promotions for providing me an ARC to read and review.
September 7, 2024
🏒 𝙵𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝙾𝚏𝚏 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙲𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 🏒
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
𝙵𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝙾𝚏𝚏 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙲𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 releases 9/10
↓↓
What Charlie went through in class was absolutely humiliating and in that moment of humiliation she meets, connects and has a one night stand with a stranger. From there Charlie and Finn have a series of events where they end up being forced to interact with each other. Their relationship grows over time into something more.
This was a cute read, it really was but there were certain parts that just didn't sit well with me. The whole thing with the video and nothing happening to that sleazeball.... Ummmm what 🥴 in my opinion and the biggest eye roll of the book was after the whole Chelsea debacle and Charlie was freaking out and saying all these insane things to Finn and then he says I love you and magically it's all ok now and they are telling each other they love each other, complete whiplash that just didn't make sense to me.
Minus a few of those it's just me things in the book, it was a cute read. There was tension, banter and I really loved the vulnerability of Charlie and Finn when they really opened up to each other.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🏒 Enemies to lovers
🏒 College hockey
🏒 Found family
🏒 Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒 Forbidden relationship
🏒 Close proximity
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
𝙵𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝙾𝚏𝚏 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙲𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 releases 9/10
↓↓
What Charlie went through in class was absolutely humiliating and in that moment of humiliation she meets, connects and has a one night stand with a stranger. From there Charlie and Finn have a series of events where they end up being forced to interact with each other. Their relationship grows over time into something more.
This was a cute read, it really was but there were certain parts that just didn't sit well with me. The whole thing with the video and nothing happening to that sleazeball.... Ummmm what 🥴 in my opinion and the biggest eye roll of the book was after the whole Chelsea debacle and Charlie was freaking out and saying all these insane things to Finn and then he says I love you and magically it's all ok now and they are telling each other they love each other, complete whiplash that just didn't make sense to me.
Minus a few of those it's just me things in the book, it was a cute read. There was tension, banter and I really loved the vulnerability of Charlie and Finn when they really opened up to each other.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🏒 Enemies to lovers
🏒 College hockey
🏒 Found family
🏒 Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒 Forbidden relationship
🏒 Close proximity
September 8, 2024
They can’t date but they can’t stay away from each other!
Charlotte (Charlie) Morgan has plans for her social media internship but her plans go haywire when her boyfriend humiliated her in their social media marketing class. But when she leaves the room she runs into Finn Heaton who helps get rid of her now ex-boyfriend and he tells Charlie that he’s a bio-chem major with a resulting night together.
Charlie has a few crappy days when she finds out that her dorm has flooded and the only place to live is the hockey house with her best friend because her brother plays for Riverside U. Plus Charlie’s new internship is with the hockey team and Finn is the captain of the team and they can’t see each other because the issues with her internship even though they live in the same house. Oops!
Face Off With The Captain is a good enemies to lover’s sports romance where Charlie doesn’t date athletes and Finn doesn’t do relationships but they can’t stay away from each other.
Finn is the brother of Willow in Forever Player (The Player Series Book 7).
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Grey's Promotions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charlotte (Charlie) Morgan has plans for her social media internship but her plans go haywire when her boyfriend humiliated her in their social media marketing class. But when she leaves the room she runs into Finn Heaton who helps get rid of her now ex-boyfriend and he tells Charlie that he’s a bio-chem major with a resulting night together.
Charlie has a few crappy days when she finds out that her dorm has flooded and the only place to live is the hockey house with her best friend because her brother plays for Riverside U. Plus Charlie’s new internship is with the hockey team and Finn is the captain of the team and they can’t see each other because the issues with her internship even though they live in the same house. Oops!
Face Off With The Captain is a good enemies to lover’s sports romance where Charlie doesn’t date athletes and Finn doesn’t do relationships but they can’t stay away from each other.
Finn is the brother of Willow in Forever Player (The Player Series Book 7).
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Grey's Promotions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 10, 2024
‘Face Off with the Captain" is a brilliant enemies-to-lovers, forbidden college hockey romance and the first book in the new Riverside U series by RC Stephens. The author kicks off this exciting new series with Charlotte, who has sworn off dating hockey players, and Finn, the relationship-shy Captain of the hockey team. The story unfolds with the author's signature romcom flair, blending witty banter, sizzling heat, and a forbidden romance set against the backdrop of college life.
After a steamy one-night stand that was supposed to be nothing more, Charlotte finds herself in an unexpected position as the social media manager for the hockey team. Her new role puts her in close proximity to Finn, especially when she ends up living with the team after her accommodation is flooded. The forced proximity tests their resolve as the chemistry between them intensifies, all under the pressure of a strict no fraternization policy.
RC Stephens masterfully weaves a tale filled with secrets, tension, and undeniable attraction. Navigating a secret relationship in a hockey house is no easy feat, but it's a thrilling and fun journey to witness. With a perfect balance of humor and heat, "Face Off with the Captain" is a captivating start to the Riverside U series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating more. Settle in and enjoy the ride!
After a steamy one-night stand that was supposed to be nothing more, Charlotte finds herself in an unexpected position as the social media manager for the hockey team. Her new role puts her in close proximity to Finn, especially when she ends up living with the team after her accommodation is flooded. The forced proximity tests their resolve as the chemistry between them intensifies, all under the pressure of a strict no fraternization policy.
RC Stephens masterfully weaves a tale filled with secrets, tension, and undeniable attraction. Navigating a secret relationship in a hockey house is no easy feat, but it's a thrilling and fun journey to witness. With a perfect balance of humor and heat, "Face Off with the Captain" is a captivating start to the Riverside U series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating more. Settle in and enjoy the ride!
September 9, 2024
I absolutely loved this new hockey series by R. C. Stephens! Face Off with the Captain was hilarious, emotional, steamy, and full of hockey hotties. Charlie and Finn have that instant chemistry when they run into each other, literally, which leads to one night of fun. However, all the things go down hill fast for Charlie. Now she is working with the hockey team, having to find housing because of a dorm issue, and what was a wonderful night with Finn is now causing so much drama. All of this is just the perfect recipe for Finn and Charlie to face off with each other and figure out how to move forward in this sticky situation. Plus, their is drama from an ex, add in their own pasts that have molded them into who they are, yet these two push the other out of their comfort zone and keep getting caught in almost crossing the line they can’t cross. Finn and Charlie take us on a whirlwind journey that will have you devouring this book to see what will happen when these two face off and have to figure out if their feelings are worth the risk or are their future paths set in stone and can’t stray from it. I loved these characters as well as all the hockey teammates and best friends, you’ll be addicted and wanting more of them all!
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