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The Hastings #2
On Guard
The bad boy of professional fencing meets Hollywood’s favorite good girl in this sexy sports romance set against the backdrop of a high-stakes blockbuster.
DANTE HASTINGS
You might have heard of me.
I was the defending Olympic champion—until I used my fist instead of my sabre during a match. Needless to say, I was suspended. Which means no competing for a year…and cleaning up my image.
So, instead of continuing to dominate the fencing world, I’m working on a film that’s poised to be next year’s blockbuster action flick.
The upside? Working with Reese Sinclair, my celebrity crush whose poster was on my wall growing up. Spending time with her will help wash the tabloids of my suspension and convince the league that I’m reformed.
But America’s sweetheart is nothing like I imagined. She’s stubborn, ambitious, and struggling to prove herself in a role that no one thinks she can handle. Still, her determination runs red-hot, and I can’t help but admire her.
When our late-night training sessions turn into something more, I start to realize that I’m outmaneuvered by feelings I never saw coming.
REESE SINCLAIR
The girl next door. The best friend. The love-struck heroine.
I’ve played them all.
But with thirty creeping closer, I need to prove to myself that I can be more than Hollywood’s darling. And this movie is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for, the project I can use to break out of my typecasting.
The problem? I’m not cut out for action-packed stunt work.
Enter: Dante Hastings. He’s hedonistic, insufferable, infuriatingly gorgeous—and my last shot at making this career move work.
I should stay away. His reputation alone could sink mine. But the more time we spend together, the more I see past all his tabloid exploits and rule-breaking. He knows what it means to fight for something.
But a leading lady doesn’t simper over her co-workers, right?
Yet as much as I try to resist, part of me wants to let Dante put the sin in Sinclair.
On Guard is the secondbook in The Hastings series, a collection of interconnected standalone sports romances about the Hastings siblings, scions of sports royalty.
DANTE HASTINGS
You might have heard of me.
I was the defending Olympic champion—until I used my fist instead of my sabre during a match. Needless to say, I was suspended. Which means no competing for a year…and cleaning up my image.
So, instead of continuing to dominate the fencing world, I’m working on a film that’s poised to be next year’s blockbuster action flick.
The upside? Working with Reese Sinclair, my celebrity crush whose poster was on my wall growing up. Spending time with her will help wash the tabloids of my suspension and convince the league that I’m reformed.
But America’s sweetheart is nothing like I imagined. She’s stubborn, ambitious, and struggling to prove herself in a role that no one thinks she can handle. Still, her determination runs red-hot, and I can’t help but admire her.
When our late-night training sessions turn into something more, I start to realize that I’m outmaneuvered by feelings I never saw coming.
REESE SINCLAIR
The girl next door. The best friend. The love-struck heroine.
I’ve played them all.
But with thirty creeping closer, I need to prove to myself that I can be more than Hollywood’s darling. And this movie is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for, the project I can use to break out of my typecasting.
The problem? I’m not cut out for action-packed stunt work.
Enter: Dante Hastings. He’s hedonistic, insufferable, infuriatingly gorgeous—and my last shot at making this career move work.
I should stay away. His reputation alone could sink mine. But the more time we spend together, the more I see past all his tabloid exploits and rule-breaking. He knows what it means to fight for something.
But a leading lady doesn’t simper over her co-workers, right?
Yet as much as I try to resist, part of me wants to let Dante put the sin in Sinclair.
On Guard is the secondbook in The Hastings series, a collection of interconnected standalone sports romances about the Hastings siblings, scions of sports royalty.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2025
200 people are currently reading
2989 people want to read
About the author
Kels Stone
12 books739 followersImpactful Love Stories
Kels & Denise are authors, best friends, and the definition of the found family trope. The pair bonded over their love for romance and turned all their late-night chats into writing together. Their enjoyment for storytelling morphed into writing impactful love stories.
@authorkelsdenisestone
kelsdenisestone.com/kdstone
For exclusive bonus content: www.patreon.com/authorkelsdenisestone
Kels & Denise are authors, best friends, and the definition of the found family trope. The pair bonded over their love for romance and turned all their late-night chats into writing together. Their enjoyment for storytelling morphed into writing impactful love stories.
@authorkelsdenisestone
kelsdenisestone.com/kdstone
For exclusive bonus content: www.patreon.com/authorkelsdenisestone
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
April 10, 2025
On Guard (The Hastings #2) by Kels Stone & Denise Stone
3.5/5 stars
On Guard is a fun, light read with a strong feminist driven arc in it. In this book we follow the love story of Reese and Dante and these two are total cutie pies. I really enjoyed their balanced out relationship throughout the entire book.
The book starts with Reese wanting to break out of the roles she gets offered normally. She is a huge romcom star and she's nearing 30. She wants to expand her acting abilities and chase that oscar she wants to win. She signs up for an action movie directed by a talented oscar winner director and she is extremely excited to finally do something else.
Dante needs to clean up his image. He got suspended for a year as a olympic fencing champion after he hit a man who was about to expose his teammate. Dante and him made out for a while and his friend isn't ready to come out yet. Hence the suspension and to clean up his image he takes on a role in an action movie. He always adored Reese and had her posters on his wall.
At first they bicker and fight but quickly they see behind each other's facade and they genuinely connect and help each other with their struggles. They fall in love and it is a sweet journey to go on with them.
I love the fierce protectiveness Dante has for his friend. I love how he embraces his bi-sexuality and his feminine side. I adore how he takes Em in and supports her completely in every way. I love how he doesn't judge and gives people an honest chance to explain themselves.
Reese is a brave woman who fights for her rights and believes. And I love the story line where she overcomes a huge fear that caused severe panic attacks.
It's a wholesome story. And so sweet. And though I really liked the feminist driven story line, it does overshadow the love story a lot. The book is so focused on girl power and girls supporting each other that the love story fell a little flat and lacked genuine chemistry. I didn't feel them aching for each other or lusting after each other. I was written down, but I didn't feel the emotions that normally accompany those words. I think it would have been better if the authors focused more on one of the two storylines instead of combining the two. Don't get me wrong. I am a huge supporter of feminism. And I will always, always support that cause. But I just missed a bit more romance and true connection.
But apart from that this story was truly fun and I am glad I read it.
3.5 huge stars from me for Reese and Dante!
3.5/5 stars
On Guard is a fun, light read with a strong feminist driven arc in it. In this book we follow the love story of Reese and Dante and these two are total cutie pies. I really enjoyed their balanced out relationship throughout the entire book.
The book starts with Reese wanting to break out of the roles she gets offered normally. She is a huge romcom star and she's nearing 30. She wants to expand her acting abilities and chase that oscar she wants to win. She signs up for an action movie directed by a talented oscar winner director and she is extremely excited to finally do something else.
Dante needs to clean up his image. He got suspended for a year as a olympic fencing champion after he hit a man who was about to expose his teammate. Dante and him made out for a while and his friend isn't ready to come out yet. Hence the suspension and to clean up his image he takes on a role in an action movie. He always adored Reese and had her posters on his wall.
At first they bicker and fight but quickly they see behind each other's facade and they genuinely connect and help each other with their struggles. They fall in love and it is a sweet journey to go on with them.
I love the fierce protectiveness Dante has for his friend. I love how he embraces his bi-sexuality and his feminine side. I adore how he takes Em in and supports her completely in every way. I love how he doesn't judge and gives people an honest chance to explain themselves.
Reese is a brave woman who fights for her rights and believes. And I love the story line where she overcomes a huge fear that caused severe panic attacks.
It's a wholesome story. And so sweet. And though I really liked the feminist driven story line, it does overshadow the love story a lot. The book is so focused on girl power and girls supporting each other that the love story fell a little flat and lacked genuine chemistry. I didn't feel them aching for each other or lusting after each other. I was written down, but I didn't feel the emotions that normally accompany those words. I think it would have been better if the authors focused more on one of the two storylines instead of combining the two. Don't get me wrong. I am a huge supporter of feminism. And I will always, always support that cause. But I just missed a bit more romance and true connection.
But apart from that this story was truly fun and I am glad I read it.
3.5 huge stars from me for Reese and Dante!
March 31, 2025
KELS & DENISE STONE DO IT AGAIN!!!!!
5 freaking stars
This was one of my most highly anticipated new releases for the year & it didn’t disappoint.
One of my new favorite romance series.
-Trainer x trainee
-Bad boy x Good girl
-A little forbidden
-She was HIS celebrity crush
This was such a fun read & I absolutely LOVED both of these characters.
From the banter in the beginning when she hatedddd him, to the tension when he was TRAINING her🤭, to the insane chemistry! I’m obsessed with them as a couple.
I loved Reese’s character so much, I loved the growth she went through in finding her true self. She’s such a badass & strong FMC. The self discovery as a woman was so relatable in this book & it was so refreshing to read about.
Dante my MF MANNNNN.🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
He played such a strong role in helping Reese with her confidence & growth. “Be selfish, Reese”
No bc this man is the standard. He literally gives her praise in a foreign language… Ya I’m so down bad.
Also the communication between these two characters? IMPECCABLE. I didn’t see a third act break up anywhereeeeeee.
I’m so obsessed with this series it’s not even funny.
Please read.
🤺🎥💗
5 freaking stars
This was one of my most highly anticipated new releases for the year & it didn’t disappoint.
One of my new favorite romance series.
-Trainer x trainee
-Bad boy x Good girl
-A little forbidden
-She was HIS celebrity crush
This was such a fun read & I absolutely LOVED both of these characters.
From the banter in the beginning when she hatedddd him, to the tension when he was TRAINING her🤭, to the insane chemistry! I’m obsessed with them as a couple.
I loved Reese’s character so much, I loved the growth she went through in finding her true self. She’s such a badass & strong FMC. The self discovery as a woman was so relatable in this book & it was so refreshing to read about.
Dante my MF MANNNNN.🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
He played such a strong role in helping Reese with her confidence & growth. “Be selfish, Reese”
No bc this man is the standard. He literally gives her praise in a foreign language… Ya I’m so down bad.
Also the communication between these two characters? IMPECCABLE. I didn’t see a third act break up anywhereeeeeee.
I’m so obsessed with this series it’s not even funny.
Please read.
🤺🎥💗
April 16, 2025
3.95⭐️ | 3🌶
i liked that this focused on a sport i've never read a romance book on before. That was refreshing. I loved there was strong representation in literally every female (except for Susan) in here. I loved that both Reese & Dante came from loving families. I loved Dante's relationship with Em. I adored her. I wanted to hug her and give her the world. This one was also unnecessarily lengthy in my opinion hank you to valentine pr for the arc.
i liked that this focused on a sport i've never read a romance book on before. That was refreshing. I loved there was strong representation in literally every female (except for Susan) in here. I loved that both Reese & Dante came from loving families. I loved Dante's relationship with Em. I adored her. I wanted to hug her and give her the world. This one was also unnecessarily lengthy in my opinion hank you to valentine pr for the arc.
April 17, 2025
This is the first book I have read by these authors, and I really enjoyed it! This book was really about how you can be motivated to find yourself with the right person and support in your corner. Both Reese and Dante had such transformations throughout the book. Reese was Hollywood's golden child who was known for rom coms, but she didn't want to be in that box anymore. Dante was on the other side of a sports scandal that found him suspended for a year. He was in a pit of despair trying to play it off cool when he found himself on a movie set with Reese Sinclair. I liked the evolution of their relationship. How Reese realized she had wrongly judged Dante. I liked their banter and how a brand of foreplay was taunts and teases. I liked how they slowly became each other's safe spaces. How they had walls built but found that they could lower them and really be themselves together. I LOVED that Dante was not intimidated by Reese having to put herself before him sometimes while knowing she loved him. I found myself really struggling with the media barrage towards Reese which is ironic because I recently have been thinking about how crazy it would be to be THAT famous. People following you everywhere. Spinning everything. I appreciated how Reese was able to come out of this on the other side more herself than she ever had been with the love of her life at her side.
Reese has decided she is going to do an action movie. She is done with the rom coms and the insta-love stories. She is about to be 30 and wants to prove her worth to the world. What she doesn't expect is Dante Hastings- gold medalist fencer and bad boy extraordinaire. She knows the type of guy he is. Well at least she thinks she does, until he starts to prove her wrong. He helps her with her fighting technique. He stands up for her while not overshadowing her. And MAN is he a fine specimen. Reese finds herself drawn to him like a moth to a flame. She finds herself lowering her walls with him and just being herself. Not the mask the world sees but the woman who wants to break free and be someone different. She finds herself wanting to be scandalized by his badness in the best way. And that's what they do. They share special moments together that push her beyond what she ever thought she would be comfortable to do. He pushes her to want to do more for herself both professionally and personally. She finds herself wanting things with him she hasn't been able to want before. And when they mix in physical things- it is unreal. She tries to remind herself that her career is first. But he doesn't seem to mind that. As long as they have time together. But then he comes clean about something he has been hiding and Reese has to ask herself if she feels safe with him and if she is willing to trust him?
Dante is on the other side of a sports scandal. He has been suspended from fencing for a year and has just watched his team win gold while he is literally on the other side of the world. And now he has to put on a show like he is fine with being a sport stunt helper on a movie with Reese Sinclair. THE Reese Sinclair. The woman he has been daydreaming about since forever. But when he meets her she is so different. Fiery and fiesty and clearly has thoughts about who he is. But the more time they spend together the more in awe of her he becomes. She is so much more than she lets on. He is beyond amazed that she is letting HIM of all people in. She is lowering her walls ever so slightly for him. And he is loving every minute of it. He finds himself prolonging things with her. Waiting for her. He finds himself wanting and thinking about things he has not thought about before. Like being in a relationship. He finds himself baffled that Reese is trusting him with pushing her. Pushing her boundaries. Helping her get into her new skin. And now that they have been together all bets are off. He knows how he feels about her but needs her to catch up. He just has something to come clean about. She makes him want to be better. He hopes that in coming clean he won't lose her because she is his world.
Great second book in a series! I didn't feel lost at all that I had not read the first one. Can I also say that the spicy scenes in this one where electrifying. I loved that those scenes were a big part of Reese taking control- there is something so hot about an alpha man being ok with his woman taking the reins. I loved the character development in this one and found myself rooting for these two the whole time. I am looking forward to reading book 1 and anything else in this series!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kels for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Reese has decided she is going to do an action movie. She is done with the rom coms and the insta-love stories. She is about to be 30 and wants to prove her worth to the world. What she doesn't expect is Dante Hastings- gold medalist fencer and bad boy extraordinaire. She knows the type of guy he is. Well at least she thinks she does, until he starts to prove her wrong. He helps her with her fighting technique. He stands up for her while not overshadowing her. And MAN is he a fine specimen. Reese finds herself drawn to him like a moth to a flame. She finds herself lowering her walls with him and just being herself. Not the mask the world sees but the woman who wants to break free and be someone different. She finds herself wanting to be scandalized by his badness in the best way. And that's what they do. They share special moments together that push her beyond what she ever thought she would be comfortable to do. He pushes her to want to do more for herself both professionally and personally. She finds herself wanting things with him she hasn't been able to want before. And when they mix in physical things- it is unreal. She tries to remind herself that her career is first. But he doesn't seem to mind that. As long as they have time together. But then he comes clean about something he has been hiding and Reese has to ask herself if she feels safe with him and if she is willing to trust him?
Dante is on the other side of a sports scandal. He has been suspended from fencing for a year and has just watched his team win gold while he is literally on the other side of the world. And now he has to put on a show like he is fine with being a sport stunt helper on a movie with Reese Sinclair. THE Reese Sinclair. The woman he has been daydreaming about since forever. But when he meets her she is so different. Fiery and fiesty and clearly has thoughts about who he is. But the more time they spend together the more in awe of her he becomes. She is so much more than she lets on. He is beyond amazed that she is letting HIM of all people in. She is lowering her walls ever so slightly for him. And he is loving every minute of it. He finds himself prolonging things with her. Waiting for her. He finds himself wanting and thinking about things he has not thought about before. Like being in a relationship. He finds himself baffled that Reese is trusting him with pushing her. Pushing her boundaries. Helping her get into her new skin. And now that they have been together all bets are off. He knows how he feels about her but needs her to catch up. He just has something to come clean about. She makes him want to be better. He hopes that in coming clean he won't lose her because she is his world.
Great second book in a series! I didn't feel lost at all that I had not read the first one. Can I also say that the spicy scenes in this one where electrifying. I loved that those scenes were a big part of Reese taking control- there is something so hot about an alpha man being ok with his woman taking the reins. I loved the character development in this one and found myself rooting for these two the whole time. I am looking forward to reading book 1 and anything else in this series!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kels for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
March 28, 2025
This book was honestly perfect. I’ve been a fan of Kels and Denise since they first started publishing their books and each book just gets better and better. I love a sports romance, I love a series that follows siblings, I love books that showcase real struggles people deal with every day, and that’s what this series is and it is perfection. I loved Dante and Reese SO MUCH! They were soft and sweet and HOT and such a perfect match.
I love opposites attract, good girl x bad boy, and let me tell you Reese and Dante were PERFECTION. Not only was their banter fun, their chemistry was DELICIOUS and watching them fall for each other inbetween the chaos of their lives was so sweet, but they were also THERE for each other right away. Dante immediately was on her side, protecting her. Reese very quickly was able to read Dante and see the things he needed without him saying anything.
Dante really is that MAN. I love him. Truly and honestly. He was just a soft boy who was used to feeling invisible, forgotten. So he made himself KNOWN. And seeing him make moves to change, not just for Reese but for himself!! Seeing him with Em!! Perfection!!
I also really appreciated Reese’s journey! She wanted to break free of who she was and become the person she desperately wanted to be. She stuck up for herself, even when it was hard, even when she did need help from Dante (which is okay even independent women want/need/deserve support!). And watching her get everything she deserved and more was SO AMAZING.
I truly cannot wait for the rest of this series!?
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Kels and Denise Stone for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I love opposites attract, good girl x bad boy, and let me tell you Reese and Dante were PERFECTION. Not only was their banter fun, their chemistry was DELICIOUS and watching them fall for each other inbetween the chaos of their lives was so sweet, but they were also THERE for each other right away. Dante immediately was on her side, protecting her. Reese very quickly was able to read Dante and see the things he needed without him saying anything.
Dante really is that MAN. I love him. Truly and honestly. He was just a soft boy who was used to feeling invisible, forgotten. So he made himself KNOWN. And seeing him make moves to change, not just for Reese but for himself!! Seeing him with Em!! Perfection!!
I also really appreciated Reese’s journey! She wanted to break free of who she was and become the person she desperately wanted to be. She stuck up for herself, even when it was hard, even when she did need help from Dante (which is okay even independent women want/need/deserve support!). And watching her get everything she deserved and more was SO AMAZING.
I truly cannot wait for the rest of this series!?
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Kels and Denise Stone for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 9, 2025
Thank you so much to Kels & Denise Stone for the ARC!!!
4.25 stars!!
I have been, and always will be, a Kels and Denise fan! They are masters at creating fun, easy to read stories with deep messages & themes, and characters with depth who you can't help but love. Reese & Dante's story was no different! I absolutely loved both of their characters so much.
Watching Reese navigate her way through a male-dominated field, find her voice, and step out of the mold she was placed in was so empowering & lovely. I loved her sense of humor, her dedication, her kind and caring nature. She was so easy to root for & so easy to love!!!!
Dante's growth throughout the book was so special. Getting to see him find his purpose, navigate his time away from fencing, and feel safe to be his true, vulnerable self was so lovely!!! He was so easy to love, his humor, his charismatic & caring personality... just SO GOOD
Dante & Reese's relationship is filled with trust, care, tension & chemistry. I loved the trainer x trainee aspect so much. The push and pull of control between them, the forced proximity, the secret moments!!!! SOO FUN. They were both so down bad for each other and I ate it up!!! I loved them and I loved getting to see them grow together!!!
I really enjoyed the mental health (panic attacks) & learning disability (dyslexia) aspect in this between the two characters. I loved how understanding they were of each other & how they did everything they could to help.
Love love love!!!
4.25 stars!!
I have been, and always will be, a Kels and Denise fan! They are masters at creating fun, easy to read stories with deep messages & themes, and characters with depth who you can't help but love. Reese & Dante's story was no different! I absolutely loved both of their characters so much.
Watching Reese navigate her way through a male-dominated field, find her voice, and step out of the mold she was placed in was so empowering & lovely. I loved her sense of humor, her dedication, her kind and caring nature. She was so easy to root for & so easy to love!!!!
Dante's growth throughout the book was so special. Getting to see him find his purpose, navigate his time away from fencing, and feel safe to be his true, vulnerable self was so lovely!!! He was so easy to love, his humor, his charismatic & caring personality... just SO GOOD
Dante & Reese's relationship is filled with trust, care, tension & chemistry. I loved the trainer x trainee aspect so much. The push and pull of control between them, the forced proximity, the secret moments!!!! SOO FUN. They were both so down bad for each other and I ate it up!!! I loved them and I loved getting to see them grow together!!!
I really enjoyed the mental health (panic attacks) & learning disability (dyslexia) aspect in this between the two characters. I loved how understanding they were of each other & how they did everything they could to help.
Love love love!!!
April 2, 2025
Unfortunately, this one just wasn't for me. I was really excited for it after having read Close Knit and loving that one. I figured I would feel similar about this one. I just did not. And it's hard because there weren't any things I could really pinpoint as to why I felt that way. I just didn't feel connected to the characters and just felt myself going through the motions trying to finish it and not really enjoying it. I know I will be one of few who does not enjoy this book and I sincerely hope other have a better experience than I did, but this is one of those times I can really tell just how subjective reading is.
April 13, 2025
Kels and Denise never miss with their books!!! This is the second book in the Hastings series. It follows Hollywoods good girl, Reese Sinclair, and US Olympic team member bad boy, Dante Hastings. Reese started in Hollywood at a young age and would only get roles for romcoms over and over again. She is at the age where she wants to be seen as an adult and not the teenager they grew up seeing. She steps out of her comfort zone to audition for an action movie. She is so excited for this role to show female empowerment but finds out that the producer has other ideas in store. Throughout the book we see Reese deal with a lot sexism that most women have to deal with. Then we have Dante. He is currently suspended from fencing. This includes not only competitions but anything that has to do with the team. So he takes part in the same movie to help train Reese on how to do fighting sequences and also has a role. They don’t get off to the best start but being forced to see each other all the time there might just be sparks flying.
Read if you like:
- good girl x bad boy
- sports romance
- she was his childhood crush
- he’s obsessed with her
Thank you Valentine Pr and Kels & Denise for the arc
Read if you like:
- good girl x bad boy
- sports romance
- she was his childhood crush
- he’s obsessed with her
Thank you Valentine Pr and Kels & Denise for the arc
March 29, 2025
After reading Close Knit last year, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on On Guard, book 2 in The Hastings series.
I was in love with this book. A fencing bad boy and Hollywood's It girl? Obsessed. I love a sports romance, and this one was so unique that it grabbed me right away. Dante was the perfect hero— a playboy with a bad boy past but a deep soul. Reece was the kind of heroine I love to read about: strong, independent, and refuses to back down. I loved how she made Dante work for it. These two main characters had perfect banter and the spice... 🥵 These two really heat things up in the bedroom (or in the back of a limo, or a bathroom at a party). Dante and Reece were the perfect balance, working so well together and complementing each other perfectly.
I always enjoy reading Kels & Denise Stone books. They’re full of beautifully written characters with depth, humor, and heart.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR, and Kels and Denise Stone for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
On Guard is available on Kindle Unlimited and in paperback on April 9th.
I was in love with this book. A fencing bad boy and Hollywood's It girl? Obsessed. I love a sports romance, and this one was so unique that it grabbed me right away. Dante was the perfect hero— a playboy with a bad boy past but a deep soul. Reece was the kind of heroine I love to read about: strong, independent, and refuses to back down. I loved how she made Dante work for it. These two main characters had perfect banter and the spice... 🥵 These two really heat things up in the bedroom (or in the back of a limo, or a bathroom at a party). Dante and Reece were the perfect balance, working so well together and complementing each other perfectly.
I always enjoy reading Kels & Denise Stone books. They’re full of beautifully written characters with depth, humor, and heart.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR, and Kels and Denise Stone for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
On Guard is available on Kindle Unlimited and in paperback on April 9th.
April 8, 2025
had a very great time with these two <3 will be back with more soon xoxo
September 11, 2025
On Guard (ARC review)
Thank you to Kels and Denise Stone and Valentine Pr for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
What a book! I'm OBSESSED! Once again, this author suo serves us a masterpiece! Dante and Reese were absolutely everything! This book had so much heart and pain inside it. The character had so much depth, and each chapter made me fall more in love with them. Reese was an incredible woman, hardworking and passionate. Seeing trying to make the name she wanted for herself made me so proud of her. Watching her shine and become her true self meant a lot to me. Dante was someone who took a bit of time for me to fall in love with. I loved his flaws and his carelessness. Watching him find love and acceptance was perfect to me. He became the best version of himself, and he thrived in doing so. These two had so much passion for each other. They became each other's comfort, and you could see how much they meant for each other. They fit perfectly, like they were made for each other. Their love was so beautiful, and their chemistry out of this world. To see them slowly fall in love by the person they were destined to was so special. The epilogue was everything I needed it to be and more!
Book by: Kels and Denise Stone
Tropes:
• Bad boy x Good girl
• Forced proximity
• Obsessed MMC
• Forbidden romance
• Fake dating
• Dislike to love
• Sports romance
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
Thank you to Kels and Denise Stone and Valentine Pr for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
What a book! I'm OBSESSED! Once again, this author suo serves us a masterpiece! Dante and Reese were absolutely everything! This book had so much heart and pain inside it. The character had so much depth, and each chapter made me fall more in love with them. Reese was an incredible woman, hardworking and passionate. Seeing trying to make the name she wanted for herself made me so proud of her. Watching her shine and become her true self meant a lot to me. Dante was someone who took a bit of time for me to fall in love with. I loved his flaws and his carelessness. Watching him find love and acceptance was perfect to me. He became the best version of himself, and he thrived in doing so. These two had so much passion for each other. They became each other's comfort, and you could see how much they meant for each other. They fit perfectly, like they were made for each other. Their love was so beautiful, and their chemistry out of this world. To see them slowly fall in love by the person they were destined to was so special. The epilogue was everything I needed it to be and more!
Book by: Kels and Denise Stone
Tropes:
• Bad boy x Good girl
• Forced proximity
• Obsessed MMC
• Forbidden romance
• Fake dating
• Dislike to love
• Sports romance
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
Read
November 3, 2025the best pleasures in life are worth waiting for.
What’s not to love about the bad boy x good girl trope?! We love a reformed playboy and good girl that takes ownership of her identity. I continue to love Kels & Denise Stone’s writing style. And I continue to fall in love with the Hastings crew!
—
this and that:
♡ athlete x actress
♡ beignets
♡ bi rep
♡ burlesque shows
♡ dual pov
♡ film set
♡ forced proximity
♡ keeping it casual
♡ large families
♡ masked party
♡ open door spice
♡ opposites attract
♡ reformed playboy
♡ sibling text threads
♡ southern belle x california boy
♡ sports (fencing)
♡ yacht life
triggers:
☞ drug use
☞ parental neglect
☞ sexism
☞ threat of outing queer characters
☞ violence
notable quotes:
—
thank you to Valentine PR for the gifted review copy!
—
♡ read my reviews for books in the series:
Close Knit (book one)
On Guard (book two)
Highest Point (book three)
—
♡ find me on Instagram!
What’s not to love about the bad boy x good girl trope?! We love a reformed playboy and good girl that takes ownership of her identity. I continue to love Kels & Denise Stone’s writing style. And I continue to fall in love with the Hastings crew!
—
this and that:
♡ athlete x actress
♡ beignets
♡ bi rep
♡ burlesque shows
♡ dual pov
♡ film set
♡ forced proximity
♡ keeping it casual
♡ large families
♡ masked party
♡ open door spice
♡ opposites attract
♡ reformed playboy
♡ sibling text threads
♡ southern belle x california boy
♡ sports (fencing)
♡ yacht life
triggers:
☞ drug use
☞ parental neglect
☞ sexism
☞ threat of outing queer characters
☞ violence
notable quotes:
—
thank you to Valentine PR for the gifted review copy!
—
♡ read my reviews for books in the series:
Close Knit (book one)
On Guard (book two)
Highest Point (book three)
—
♡ find me on Instagram!
October 29, 2025
4 stars.
I really enjoyed "On Guard" by Kels and Denise Stone! This is the very first fencing romance I have ever read, and I liked the seamless integration of the sport into this story. It's honestly refreshing and nice to read a sports romance that doesn't involve sports balls or pucks! Reese and Dante are both compelling characters, and they both have terrific character arcs here. They start out one way and both do a complete 180 by the time the book is over. Good girl meets bad guy, she explores what she really wants out of life, and he curtails his bad boy ways... but with sabres! My affections grew for Dante over time, and I always liked Reese. These are a couple of very well crafted characters here. I enjoyed the spice element as well, especially since Reese is trying to explore what she likes and be more assertive with who she is. My one complaint is that this story feels a little too long and a bit too repetitive. I get that they are filming a movie and going through training, but it starts to feel a little recycled at some point. It's also a little obvious where it's all going in the end, but I like the addition of the extra siblings and the holiday gathering. Besides that, this is a great book with a lot of heart and heat!
Thank you to Kels and Denise Stone and Valentine PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I really enjoyed "On Guard" by Kels and Denise Stone! This is the very first fencing romance I have ever read, and I liked the seamless integration of the sport into this story. It's honestly refreshing and nice to read a sports romance that doesn't involve sports balls or pucks! Reese and Dante are both compelling characters, and they both have terrific character arcs here. They start out one way and both do a complete 180 by the time the book is over. Good girl meets bad guy, she explores what she really wants out of life, and he curtails his bad boy ways... but with sabres! My affections grew for Dante over time, and I always liked Reese. These are a couple of very well crafted characters here. I enjoyed the spice element as well, especially since Reese is trying to explore what she likes and be more assertive with who she is. My one complaint is that this story feels a little too long and a bit too repetitive. I get that they are filming a movie and going through training, but it starts to feel a little recycled at some point. It's also a little obvious where it's all going in the end, but I like the addition of the extra siblings and the holiday gathering. Besides that, this is a great book with a lot of heart and heat!
Thank you to Kels and Denise Stone and Valentine PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
April 15, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
On Guard by Kels and Denise Stone is the second installment in The Hastings series, delivering a captivating blend of sports romance and Hollywood drama. This novel pairs Dante Hastings, a suspended Olympic fencing champion, with Reese Sinclair, a renowned actress striving to break free from her "girl-next-door" image. Their collaboration on a high-stakes action film evolves into a compelling romance, enriched by themes of personal growth and redemption.
Dante, facing a year-long suspension from fencing due to an on-field altercation, seeks to rehabilitate his image by serving as a stunt consultant on a major film. There, he meets Reese, who is determined to prove her versatility beyond her established roles. Their professional relationship deepens as they train together, leading to a romantic connection that challenges both to confront their pasts and embrace change.
The chemistry between Dante and Reese is undeniable, but what truly sets this book apart is its strong feminist undercurrent. I especially enjoyed how Reese stands up for herself and speaks up for what she believes in. She navigates the film industry’s pressures with resilience and clarity, refusing to be boxed into roles or expectations that don’t align with her values. Her journey of empowerment felt both inspiring and grounded.
Dante’s arc, too, is compelling—transforming from a hot-headed athlete into someone more self-aware and supportive. Their relationship thrives on mutual respect and a shared drive for personal growth, making it a satisfying and emotionally rich romance.
Thank you to Valentine PR for this ARC
On Guard by Kels and Denise Stone is the second installment in The Hastings series, delivering a captivating blend of sports romance and Hollywood drama. This novel pairs Dante Hastings, a suspended Olympic fencing champion, with Reese Sinclair, a renowned actress striving to break free from her "girl-next-door" image. Their collaboration on a high-stakes action film evolves into a compelling romance, enriched by themes of personal growth and redemption.
Dante, facing a year-long suspension from fencing due to an on-field altercation, seeks to rehabilitate his image by serving as a stunt consultant on a major film. There, he meets Reese, who is determined to prove her versatility beyond her established roles. Their professional relationship deepens as they train together, leading to a romantic connection that challenges both to confront their pasts and embrace change.
The chemistry between Dante and Reese is undeniable, but what truly sets this book apart is its strong feminist undercurrent. I especially enjoyed how Reese stands up for herself and speaks up for what she believes in. She navigates the film industry’s pressures with resilience and clarity, refusing to be boxed into roles or expectations that don’t align with her values. Her journey of empowerment felt both inspiring and grounded.
Dante’s arc, too, is compelling—transforming from a hot-headed athlete into someone more self-aware and supportive. Their relationship thrives on mutual respect and a shared drive for personal growth, making it a satisfying and emotionally rich romance.
Thank you to Valentine PR for this ARC
April 9, 2025
the hastings series by kels and denise is rapidly becoming a series that i am obsessed with. every book follows one of the siblings and they all play a different sport. i also love how we are diving into different sports that are not as common in romance books.
on guard follows dante hastings, a fencer who is widely known for his not so picture perfect reputation, and reese sinclair, america’s sweetheart actress. HELLO OPPOSITES ATTRACT! their differences are no match for their undeniable chemistry and although they may seem worlds apart they make each other feel so seen. they come together to work on a new action movie that is meant to give reese some edge unlike her other roles and clean up dante’s reputation after a fencing incident.
i highly recommend giving this series a chance! thank you kels and denise for the arc.
on guard follows dante hastings, a fencer who is widely known for his not so picture perfect reputation, and reese sinclair, america’s sweetheart actress. HELLO OPPOSITES ATTRACT! their differences are no match for their undeniable chemistry and although they may seem worlds apart they make each other feel so seen. they come together to work on a new action movie that is meant to give reese some edge unlike her other roles and clean up dante’s reputation after a fencing incident.
i highly recommend giving this series a chance! thank you kels and denise for the arc.
Want to read
April 5, 2025Why am I looking forward to this book:
🩷 He’s 𝗼𝗯𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱
💋 She does not like him
🩷 M𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗱
💋 He knows how to use his sword 🗡️
🩷 A little 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻
💋 You’ve never read 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 like this
🩷 “Keep the mask on” scene 🤺
💋 Accidentally wrote “𝗿𝗲𝗽𝘂𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻” by TS into a book
🩷 Secrets, scandal, so much seduction
💋 ''Crawl to me'' *gets flashbacks to Rhys and Jasper* 🫦
🩷 Training together
💋 Fencing bad boy x Hollywood good girl
🩷 He’s 𝗼𝗯𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱
💋 She does not like him
🩷 M𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗱
💋 He knows how to use his sword 🗡️
🩷 A little 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻
💋 You’ve never read 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 like this
🩷 “Keep the mask on” scene 🤺
💋 Accidentally wrote “𝗿𝗲𝗽𝘂𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻” by TS into a book
🩷 Secrets, scandal, so much seduction
💋 ''Crawl to me'' *gets flashbacks to Rhys and Jasper* 🫦
🩷 Training together
💋 Fencing bad boy x Hollywood good girl
April 4, 2025
Hollywood’s golden girl and fencing’s bad boy are a dynamic duo. Big fan of the characters and their story! Can’t wait to read more about the Hastings siblings.
March 31, 2025
Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes blockbuster, Kels’ & Denises second book in The Hastings series is the duos best & most beautiful writing yet! I really loved this book. It was swoony, sweet, hot, & fun.
“𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝘾𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪”
Dante is 100% bad boy/trouble. He’s charming & flirtatious, & even though he brushes most things off & doesn’t dwell on them, when it comes to Reece he does not play about🤭 Reece is America’s sweetheart; a rule follower, doormat & good girl through & through. However I loved her journey of breaking out of the “good girl” mould & becoming who she really wanted to be.
“𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛. 𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙞𝙩, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚.
The bad boy x good girl, opposites attract tropes were executed so well. These two balanced each other out, & brought out the best in each other. The immediate animosity, growing tension, & verbal sparring had me kicking my feet, & their scorching chemistry had me blushing!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: bad boy x good girl, opposites attract, co stars, sports romance (fencing), man obsessed, forbidden romance
Thank you to VPR & the authors for this arc🩷
“𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝘾𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪”
Dante is 100% bad boy/trouble. He’s charming & flirtatious, & even though he brushes most things off & doesn’t dwell on them, when it comes to Reece he does not play about🤭 Reece is America’s sweetheart; a rule follower, doormat & good girl through & through. However I loved her journey of breaking out of the “good girl” mould & becoming who she really wanted to be.
“𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛. 𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙞𝙩, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚.
The bad boy x good girl, opposites attract tropes were executed so well. These two balanced each other out, & brought out the best in each other. The immediate animosity, growing tension, & verbal sparring had me kicking my feet, & their scorching chemistry had me blushing!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: bad boy x good girl, opposites attract, co stars, sports romance (fencing), man obsessed, forbidden romance
Thank you to VPR & the authors for this arc🩷
April 9, 2025
wow. im speechless.
if i had to choose 2 words to define this book, they would be: deliciously tense. i am a h*e for tension. give me tension all day long, fingers brushing, whisper close to ear, a hand hovering on the lower back I NEED THAT LIKE I NEED AIR. Kels and Denise NAILED that tension all throughout the book.
I absolutely LOVED Resse’s growth as a professional and as a women. it was so empowering to see her become what she had been longing in secret. mostly in her womanhood, and i saw myself in her SO much it was so comforting🥹
who doesn’t love a reformed bad boy that is so down bad for her that he can’t look away??????? dante is THAT king pls. his slutty rings, his slutty nail polish, his slutty tattoos, his constant skutty flirting😭 i loved his growth too, from being lost in himself to be able to be a role model it made me feel like a proud mom.
the chemistry between them was sparkling through my kindle screen pls. i could see the electricity on my pages!!! it was actually insane. per usual in my reviews, this is when i ask you to go and preorder and read this book.
thank you kels and denise, and valentine pr for this ARC in exchange of my honest review!✨🩷
if i had to choose 2 words to define this book, they would be: deliciously tense. i am a h*e for tension. give me tension all day long, fingers brushing, whisper close to ear, a hand hovering on the lower back I NEED THAT LIKE I NEED AIR. Kels and Denise NAILED that tension all throughout the book.
I absolutely LOVED Resse’s growth as a professional and as a women. it was so empowering to see her become what she had been longing in secret. mostly in her womanhood, and i saw myself in her SO much it was so comforting🥹
who doesn’t love a reformed bad boy that is so down bad for her that he can’t look away??????? dante is THAT king pls. his slutty rings, his slutty nail polish, his slutty tattoos, his constant skutty flirting😭 i loved his growth too, from being lost in himself to be able to be a role model it made me feel like a proud mom.
the chemistry between them was sparkling through my kindle screen pls. i could see the electricity on my pages!!! it was actually insane. per usual in my reviews, this is when i ask you to go and preorder and read this book.
thank you kels and denise, and valentine pr for this ARC in exchange of my honest review!✨🩷
April 5, 2025
I really enjoyed reading about bad boy Dante and Hollywood’s sweetheart Reese.
I liked their banter and the fun moments with them, as much as I liked their emotional moments. It was a bit of a long book, same as the first one. It didn’t feel like it was dragging, still I’d have preferred fewer chapters, and I would have loved to have more POVs from Dante’s side.
Thank you, Valentine’s PR, for the opportunity to read this ARC: All opinions are my own.
I liked their banter and the fun moments with them, as much as I liked their emotional moments. It was a bit of a long book, same as the first one. It didn’t feel like it was dragging, still I’d have preferred fewer chapters, and I would have loved to have more POVs from Dante’s side.
Thank you, Valentine’s PR, for the opportunity to read this ARC: All opinions are my own.
April 5, 2025
This one was SO good!! Bad boy fencer with Hollywood’s good girl? Yes please!
This had it all!
* Bad boy x good girl
* Slightly Forbidden
* His childhood celebrity crush
* He falls first
* Training together/close proximity
Reese is trying to get out of her “good girl” role in Hollywood and expand her acting career, taking a chance on an action film. Dante is fencing’s bad boy, one Olympic gold under his belt, but a recent scandal forced him to go under review and ended up suspended for a year. They find themselves working on a movie together and immediately the chemistry between them is off the charts.
There was so much chemistry between these two!! Their communication was superb and so refreshing to read. They were on the same page and SO supportive of each other the entire book!
The character development for both characters was fantastic. They were both strong characters to start but both Reese and Dante living in the public eye each had their own personas they were hiding behind. They THRIVED in each other’s company and pushed each other to show their true selves and stop hiding behind images that were fabricated by media. Never thought I would be into a fencing sports romance? But it was so fun! I ate it up.
HIGH PRAISE for this sports romance that was set in Hollywood. Such a fun read and I’m just obsessed over all the Hastings siblings. Can’t wait for the third sibling’s book!!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kels & Denise Stone for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This had it all!
* Bad boy x good girl
* Slightly Forbidden
* His childhood celebrity crush
* He falls first
* Training together/close proximity
Reese is trying to get out of her “good girl” role in Hollywood and expand her acting career, taking a chance on an action film. Dante is fencing’s bad boy, one Olympic gold under his belt, but a recent scandal forced him to go under review and ended up suspended for a year. They find themselves working on a movie together and immediately the chemistry between them is off the charts.
There was so much chemistry between these two!! Their communication was superb and so refreshing to read. They were on the same page and SO supportive of each other the entire book!
The character development for both characters was fantastic. They were both strong characters to start but both Reese and Dante living in the public eye each had their own personas they were hiding behind. They THRIVED in each other’s company and pushed each other to show their true selves and stop hiding behind images that were fabricated by media. Never thought I would be into a fencing sports romance? But it was so fun! I ate it up.
HIGH PRAISE for this sports romance that was set in Hollywood. Such a fun read and I’m just obsessed over all the Hastings siblings. Can’t wait for the third sibling’s book!!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kels & Denise Stone for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2025
After finishing Close Knit, I was excited to learn that this would be a series following the siblings from the Hastings family. However, I found that this book just had such a different feel to it - the writing seemed different and the characters were hard to connect to (I really didn't love either of them). As I was reading, I was hoping that I would start enjoying the book more as it went on, but instead it was a struggle to finish it.
April 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Firstly, I’d like to thank Valentine PR for this ARC!
This was overall a good book. I liked Reese and her journey of finding her voice, and becoming who she truly wants to be. Personally, the book just wasn’t 100% there. I didn’t really like Dante very much at first, it was very insta-lust on his part from the beginning. I think they overdid it a bit with the amount of times he would get a b*ner just from like breathing the same air as her like as soon as he met her lol He was a bit feral in that aspect, but I’m not judging, I know a lot of people like that type of mmc, it just wasn’t for me. I did, however, like that he brought Reese out of her shell and helped her navigate her feelings safely. I would have liked a bit more about her childhood trauma, the way that played out just felt a bit unrealistic to me? Anyway, though there were some things I didn’t love, not every book is going to be a perfect five star read, and that’s okay! I’m here to give my honest opinion whether it’s an ARC or I purchased it myself. Once again, I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC, thank you again to Valentine PR!
I’d recommend if you’re looking for a steamy romance, check out On Guard when it comes out on April 9th!
Firstly, I’d like to thank Valentine PR for this ARC!
This was overall a good book. I liked Reese and her journey of finding her voice, and becoming who she truly wants to be. Personally, the book just wasn’t 100% there. I didn’t really like Dante very much at first, it was very insta-lust on his part from the beginning. I think they overdid it a bit with the amount of times he would get a b*ner just from like breathing the same air as her like as soon as he met her lol He was a bit feral in that aspect, but I’m not judging, I know a lot of people like that type of mmc, it just wasn’t for me. I did, however, like that he brought Reese out of her shell and helped her navigate her feelings safely. I would have liked a bit more about her childhood trauma, the way that played out just felt a bit unrealistic to me? Anyway, though there were some things I didn’t love, not every book is going to be a perfect five star read, and that’s okay! I’m here to give my honest opinion whether it’s an ARC or I purchased it myself. Once again, I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC, thank you again to Valentine PR!
I’d recommend if you’re looking for a steamy romance, check out On Guard when it comes out on April 9th!
April 16, 2025
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much, Kels Stone & Denise Stone!
On Guard is a standalone and the second installment in The Hastings series.
Following the Hastings siblings, On Guard focuses on Dante, an Olympic fencing medalist whose life is thrown into chaos after a one-year suspension. Banned from participating in the sport in any capacity, and desperate to rebuild his image, Dante unexpectedly finds himself on a movie set, thanks to his PR team, a bit of his Princeton theater experience, and his ability to assist with the technical aspects of swordplay. There, he comes face-to-face with Hollywood’s darling, Reese Sinclair, who also happens to be his former teenage crush.
I absolutely loved this premise, and the book truly delivers on its promise. I'm not usually a fan of the bad boy x good girl trope, it’s often overused and ends up feeling repetitive. But the authors managed to breathe new life into it. It wasn’t about Dante “corrupting” Reese; she had so much more agency throughout the story. While he may have been the catalyst, he was never the cause or reason for her transformation.
That’s exactly why I loved their dynamic so much. Their relationship had a beautiful sense of domesticity, and everything between them evolved so naturally. Despite their differences, they found common ground and made it work in an authentic, heartfelt way. Both characters were incredibly well-developed—you could truly understand their motivations, their fears, and what drove them. I felt fully immersed in the story and emotionally invested in both of them, wholeheartedly rooting for their happily ever after.
That being said, the only hangup I have—and the reason it’s not a five-star read for me—is the pacing. At times, the plot dragged. I found myself reading and reading, feeling like not much was happening. I even got a little bored in the middle.
Also, I was led to believe this book would be way spicier than it actually was, you know? It didn’t affect my rating, but I did want to point that out. The authors focused so much on that aspect when promoting the book (don't blame them at all; that's just how things are), but I was surprised how few scenes there were.
Still, overall, I really enjoyed this story. The characters, their development, and the emotional depth made it a worthwhile read. I’m super excited to follow more of the Hastings siblings!
On Guard is a standalone and the second installment in The Hastings series.
Following the Hastings siblings, On Guard focuses on Dante, an Olympic fencing medalist whose life is thrown into chaos after a one-year suspension. Banned from participating in the sport in any capacity, and desperate to rebuild his image, Dante unexpectedly finds himself on a movie set, thanks to his PR team, a bit of his Princeton theater experience, and his ability to assist with the technical aspects of swordplay. There, he comes face-to-face with Hollywood’s darling, Reese Sinclair, who also happens to be his former teenage crush.
I absolutely loved this premise, and the book truly delivers on its promise. I'm not usually a fan of the bad boy x good girl trope, it’s often overused and ends up feeling repetitive. But the authors managed to breathe new life into it. It wasn’t about Dante “corrupting” Reese; she had so much more agency throughout the story. While he may have been the catalyst, he was never the cause or reason for her transformation.
That’s exactly why I loved their dynamic so much. Their relationship had a beautiful sense of domesticity, and everything between them evolved so naturally. Despite their differences, they found common ground and made it work in an authentic, heartfelt way. Both characters were incredibly well-developed—you could truly understand their motivations, their fears, and what drove them. I felt fully immersed in the story and emotionally invested in both of them, wholeheartedly rooting for their happily ever after.
That being said, the only hangup I have—and the reason it’s not a five-star read for me—is the pacing. At times, the plot dragged. I found myself reading and reading, feeling like not much was happening. I even got a little bored in the middle.
Also, I was led to believe this book would be way spicier than it actually was, you know? It didn’t affect my rating, but I did want to point that out. The authors focused so much on that aspect when promoting the book (don't blame them at all; that's just how things are), but I was surprised how few scenes there were.
Still, overall, I really enjoyed this story. The characters, their development, and the emotional depth made it a worthwhile read. I’m super excited to follow more of the Hastings siblings!
April 1, 2025
I don’t know where to start with this book! It was perfection, it was everything I wanted it to be and more!
I fell in love with Kels and Denise and their writing after reading Close Knit last year, and as soon as they announced Dante’s book I was adding release dates to my calendar and signing up for any information they put out. AND I AM SO GLAD I DID!!!
Dante and Reese were amazing, they were perfect, the best bad boy/good girl couple I have ever read! From Dante’s actions following some acting out at a fencing meet to Reese’s pipeline from childhood star to Hollywood sweetheart, they were drawn to each other from the very first time they met!
Dante is truly the man from my dreams. What do you mean he wears rings!!! He paints his nails??!! HE IS A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE. I need him in my life. From learning about is childhood to how he acts when he learns more about Reese, I found myself crying and laughing and swooning all over this book. He is truly one of the best male main characters I have ever gotten the opportunity to read, and he will forever take up space in my head!
AND REESE! Hollywood’s sweetheart. I loved her. I loved her character arc and yearning to expand from the typecast she had been molded into from childhood. I loved how independent she was, how she routinely stuck up for herself during filming, how she never backed down from a challenge, how she let Dante help her when needed, she is who I want to be when I grow up (read: I am a full adult. I still want to be Reese when I grow up.)
The banter, the spice, the chemistry, all of it! I loved each and every page and I ate their relationship right up! I read this book at every free moment I had as soon as the ARC landed on my Kindle, and I already can’t wait to reread!
Thank you to Kels, Denise, and Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I fell in love with Kels and Denise and their writing after reading Close Knit last year, and as soon as they announced Dante’s book I was adding release dates to my calendar and signing up for any information they put out. AND I AM SO GLAD I DID!!!
Dante and Reese were amazing, they were perfect, the best bad boy/good girl couple I have ever read! From Dante’s actions following some acting out at a fencing meet to Reese’s pipeline from childhood star to Hollywood sweetheart, they were drawn to each other from the very first time they met!
Dante is truly the man from my dreams. What do you mean he wears rings!!! He paints his nails??!! HE IS A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE. I need him in my life. From learning about is childhood to how he acts when he learns more about Reese, I found myself crying and laughing and swooning all over this book. He is truly one of the best male main characters I have ever gotten the opportunity to read, and he will forever take up space in my head!
AND REESE! Hollywood’s sweetheart. I loved her. I loved her character arc and yearning to expand from the typecast she had been molded into from childhood. I loved how independent she was, how she routinely stuck up for herself during filming, how she never backed down from a challenge, how she let Dante help her when needed, she is who I want to be when I grow up (read: I am a full adult. I still want to be Reese when I grow up.)
The banter, the spice, the chemistry, all of it! I loved each and every page and I ate their relationship right up! I read this book at every free moment I had as soon as the ARC landed on my Kindle, and I already can’t wait to reread!
Thank you to Kels, Denise, and Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 5, 2025
“Careful with all this research, you might actually start to like me.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Where do I start? Dante and Reese were perfection. Kels & Denise Stone sweep me off of my feet every time. They have the ability to write swoony, spicy, contemporary romance that include characters full of depth and address real life obstacles that women face.
This story sheds light on the way women with fame, success, and power constantly have to prove themselves as they are torn down and people downplay their hard work.
Dante was such a refreshing MMC. The self-proclaimed black sheep of the ultra successful Hastings family. A man who isn’t defined by gender roles. He wears rings on every finger. Has sexy tattoos. Doesn’t shy away from his bisexuality. He appears rough around the edges but really has the softest heart and is just trying to find himself. Defined by a “bad boy, fuck up” image, he needs to discover how truly great he is. He has a healthy masculine energy that empowers Reese to be herself and take control of.
Reese is stuck in the stereotype of being the “America’s darling good girl” and works so hard to push those boundaries and fight for the roles she deserves. As she pushes back against expectations she discovers how much she’s truly capable of. Her story is so powerful and compelling. I love how she stands on her own, but also leans into Dante to discover her softer side as well as her dominant side.
Their relationship is just so sexy, safe, and comforting.
Forever grateful to be a part of the Stone Romantics and have the opportunity to read these stories early. Thank you to VPR and Kels and Denise. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Where do I start? Dante and Reese were perfection. Kels & Denise Stone sweep me off of my feet every time. They have the ability to write swoony, spicy, contemporary romance that include characters full of depth and address real life obstacles that women face.
This story sheds light on the way women with fame, success, and power constantly have to prove themselves as they are torn down and people downplay their hard work.
Dante was such a refreshing MMC. The self-proclaimed black sheep of the ultra successful Hastings family. A man who isn’t defined by gender roles. He wears rings on every finger. Has sexy tattoos. Doesn’t shy away from his bisexuality. He appears rough around the edges but really has the softest heart and is just trying to find himself. Defined by a “bad boy, fuck up” image, he needs to discover how truly great he is. He has a healthy masculine energy that empowers Reese to be herself and take control of.
Reese is stuck in the stereotype of being the “America’s darling good girl” and works so hard to push those boundaries and fight for the roles she deserves. As she pushes back against expectations she discovers how much she’s truly capable of. Her story is so powerful and compelling. I love how she stands on her own, but also leans into Dante to discover her softer side as well as her dominant side.
Their relationship is just so sexy, safe, and comforting.
Forever grateful to be a part of the Stone Romantics and have the opportunity to read these stories early. Thank you to VPR and Kels and Denise. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2025
On Guard ARC Review
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of On Guard by Kels & Denise Stone from ValentinePr, thank you so much!! 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“but if there’s one thing i’ve learned, it’s that the people worth keeping in your life will never dim your light—they’ll help you shine brighter. so be brave enough to embrace what truly matters to you, even when it feels messy or uncertain.”
this was my first time reading anything by kels and denise and i so badly wish i would’ve started reading their books a long time ago!! saying i’m obsessed with their work would be an understatement. i actually fell in love with their writing and these characters! so much so that i bought the first book in this series and the entire perks & benefits series 🤭 it’s safe to say that i will definitely be binge reading all of their previous work! i absolutely loved this book from beginning to end! it was addictive, fast-paced, fun and i genuinely loved reese and dante.
reese and dante are complete opposites but make so much sense together. the banter and tension between them was everything! they were each other's hype person and safe space, like they truly understood each other on a much deeper level and that made their bond and relationship even more special. reese simply knows what she wants and gets it and dante was just down bad for his girl 🤭 but he was also super supportive of reese and cared for her way in every single way.
thank you once again to valentinepr and kels & denise stone for giving me the chance to read on guard early! 🩷
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of On Guard by Kels & Denise Stone from ValentinePr, thank you so much!! 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“but if there’s one thing i’ve learned, it’s that the people worth keeping in your life will never dim your light—they’ll help you shine brighter. so be brave enough to embrace what truly matters to you, even when it feels messy or uncertain.”
this was my first time reading anything by kels and denise and i so badly wish i would’ve started reading their books a long time ago!! saying i’m obsessed with their work would be an understatement. i actually fell in love with their writing and these characters! so much so that i bought the first book in this series and the entire perks & benefits series 🤭 it’s safe to say that i will definitely be binge reading all of their previous work! i absolutely loved this book from beginning to end! it was addictive, fast-paced, fun and i genuinely loved reese and dante.
reese and dante are complete opposites but make so much sense together. the banter and tension between them was everything! they were each other's hype person and safe space, like they truly understood each other on a much deeper level and that made their bond and relationship even more special. reese simply knows what she wants and gets it and dante was just down bad for his girl 🤭 but he was also super supportive of reese and cared for her way in every single way.
thank you once again to valentinepr and kels & denise stone for giving me the chance to read on guard early! 🩷
March 28, 2025
I love this series so much and I was excited to get Dante’s book. I didn’t really know what to expect so every part of this book was such a delightful surprise.
Reece is such a strong character and I loved seeing her growth throughout the book. She knew what she wanted and she was learning to stand up for herself. I was worried that the bad work situation was going to last the whole book(which would have been fine) but I’m glad it didn’t.
Dante is working on the set because he’s been suspended from fencing and he’s a bit lost at the moment. The second he sees Reece it’s like the light has come back into his life. It’s a cute little bonus that he had her poster on his wall as a kid.
The two of them are so encouraging to each other and just want the best. They are able to be just Reece and Dante when they are together. No outside voices have to get to them, they can truly be themselves.
I loved seeing Dante help train Reece. He knew that she could absolutely do her stunts, she just needed proper training. Reece had so many fears about not having a stunt double but she conquered every single one of her fears. Reece is just a badass and I love her so much.
They have really strong chemistry and it’s nothing that they have ever felt before. They are going to make mistakes along the way but they know that they can get through them together.
I received an arc from Valentine pr.
Reece is such a strong character and I loved seeing her growth throughout the book. She knew what she wanted and she was learning to stand up for herself. I was worried that the bad work situation was going to last the whole book(which would have been fine) but I’m glad it didn’t.
Dante is working on the set because he’s been suspended from fencing and he’s a bit lost at the moment. The second he sees Reece it’s like the light has come back into his life. It’s a cute little bonus that he had her poster on his wall as a kid.
The two of them are so encouraging to each other and just want the best. They are able to be just Reece and Dante when they are together. No outside voices have to get to them, they can truly be themselves.
I loved seeing Dante help train Reece. He knew that she could absolutely do her stunts, she just needed proper training. Reece had so many fears about not having a stunt double but she conquered every single one of her fears. Reece is just a badass and I love her so much.
They have really strong chemistry and it’s nothing that they have ever felt before. They are going to make mistakes along the way but they know that they can get through them together.
I received an arc from Valentine pr.
April 9, 2025
One thing l've noticed about Kels & Denise is that they always write characters that make me feel so giddy regardless of the storyline, and Reese and Dante were no exception! Kels & Denise always to tend to bring out so many emotions in me while I'm reading, especially that pivotal moment between the MCs closer to the end (please don't do that to me again 😂). Their characters are always relatable, and I feel like I saw so much of my younger self in both Reese and Dante.
I loved both MCs character development, learning about their past, upbringings, and what life situations made them who they are. Then to see them both come into their true selves together was the absolute cherry on top. That self-discovery was absolutely fierce! And who knew fencing could be so interesting...and hot? That whole "keep the mask on and crawl to me" scene was 🥵!! I'm completely swooning over tattooed, bad boy Dante Hastings.
On Guard is book 2 in The Hastings series and is an interconnected standalone, although I highly recommend reading them in order to avoid any potential spoilers. And because I love all of their books tbh. I can't wait to read the rest of the Hastings' sibling's stories!
Read if you love:
🎬 Hollywood good girl x fencing bad boy
🤺 He's obsessed
🎬 Forced proximity
🤺 "Crawl to me"
🎬 Opposites attract
Thank you so much, @authorkelsdenisestone and @valentine_pr_, for this arc in exchange for an honest review! 🤍
I loved both MCs character development, learning about their past, upbringings, and what life situations made them who they are. Then to see them both come into their true selves together was the absolute cherry on top. That self-discovery was absolutely fierce! And who knew fencing could be so interesting...and hot? That whole "keep the mask on and crawl to me" scene was 🥵!! I'm completely swooning over tattooed, bad boy Dante Hastings.
On Guard is book 2 in The Hastings series and is an interconnected standalone, although I highly recommend reading them in order to avoid any potential spoilers. And because I love all of their books tbh. I can't wait to read the rest of the Hastings' sibling's stories!
Read if you love:
🎬 Hollywood good girl x fencing bad boy
🤺 He's obsessed
🎬 Forced proximity
🤺 "Crawl to me"
🎬 Opposites attract
Thank you so much, @authorkelsdenisestone and @valentine_pr_, for this arc in exchange for an honest review! 🤍
April 13, 2025
Wow, this book has everything I crave in a romance! Huge thank you to the authors and Valentine PR for this wonderful ARC opportunity!
First of all, let's talk about Dante Hastings. He’s the ultimate bad boy, and I couldn’t get enough of his charm, intensity, and—well—his swords. After a scandal that almost cost him his Olympic career, he's working hard to clean up his image. Enter Reese Sinclair: the ultimate Hollywood sweetheart. She is an absolute gem. She's a talented actress, ready to shed her good-girl image and take on a gritty action role. She’s determined, ambitious, and not afraid to challenge Dante—whether it's on set or during those late-night training sessions (which, let's just say, get real steamy).
This book had me swooning and on the edge of my seat. The slow-burn romance, the sizzling tension, the characters you can't help but root for—it's all there. Watching Dante and Reese navigate their careers, insecurities, and undeniable attraction was such a thrill. I loved every moment.
The storytelling is top-notch, the chemistry is electric, and I already can't wait for the next book in the Hastings series. If you love a good sports romance with a Hollywood twist, On Guard is a must-read.
→ Song to listen to while reading: Delicate by Taylor Swift.
The way Dante and Reese’s relationship starts off hesitant, guarded, and full of tension is captured so well in this song. It’s got that soft, almost fragile vibe—like they’re both trying to figure out if they can trust each other with their hearts. The lyrics “This ain’t for the best / My reputation’s never been worse, so / You must like me for me” perfectly reflect how they each have to look past their reputations to find something real.
The balance of vulnerability and intensity in “Delicate” mirrors their dynamic as they slowly open up and realize just how deep their feelings go.
First of all, let's talk about Dante Hastings. He’s the ultimate bad boy, and I couldn’t get enough of his charm, intensity, and—well—his swords. After a scandal that almost cost him his Olympic career, he's working hard to clean up his image. Enter Reese Sinclair: the ultimate Hollywood sweetheart. She is an absolute gem. She's a talented actress, ready to shed her good-girl image and take on a gritty action role. She’s determined, ambitious, and not afraid to challenge Dante—whether it's on set or during those late-night training sessions (which, let's just say, get real steamy).
This book had me swooning and on the edge of my seat. The slow-burn romance, the sizzling tension, the characters you can't help but root for—it's all there. Watching Dante and Reese navigate their careers, insecurities, and undeniable attraction was such a thrill. I loved every moment.
The storytelling is top-notch, the chemistry is electric, and I already can't wait for the next book in the Hastings series. If you love a good sports romance with a Hollywood twist, On Guard is a must-read.
→ Song to listen to while reading: Delicate by Taylor Swift.
The way Dante and Reese’s relationship starts off hesitant, guarded, and full of tension is captured so well in this song. It’s got that soft, almost fragile vibe—like they’re both trying to figure out if they can trust each other with their hearts. The lyrics “This ain’t for the best / My reputation’s never been worse, so / You must like me for me” perfectly reflect how they each have to look past their reputations to find something real.
The balance of vulnerability and intensity in “Delicate” mirrors their dynamic as they slowly open up and realize just how deep their feelings go.
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