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Stuck With a Rival: A Brother's Best Friend Sweet Hockey Romance
Falling for my brother’s best friend was never part of the plan—especially when he’s also my sworn enemy.
Walking into the office that day, I never imagined being face-to-face with Alden Miller, the hockey star my photo agency is trying to court. Now, I’m forced to work with the guy I’ve always avoided.
He’s arrogant, infuriating, and somehow, he's all up in my business.
But as we work together, I start to see the side of Alden that no one else knows. Every glance ignites something electric between us. I try to ignore it. I really do.
Just when I think I’ve got things under control, one unexpected moment changes everything, leaving me questioning everything I thought I knew about him—and myself.
We’re keeping our romance a secret—especially from my brother. But when the press uncovers dirt on Alden, I’ll have to trust the man who’s captured my heart or walk away before I get hurt.
“Stuck with a Rival” is a sweet, heartwarming enemies-to-lovers hockey romance that combines humor, heart, and sizzle—without the spice. Perfect for sports romance fans who enjoy a slow-burn connection!
Walking into the office that day, I never imagined being face-to-face with Alden Miller, the hockey star my photo agency is trying to court. Now, I’m forced to work with the guy I’ve always avoided.
He’s arrogant, infuriating, and somehow, he's all up in my business.
But as we work together, I start to see the side of Alden that no one else knows. Every glance ignites something electric between us. I try to ignore it. I really do.
Just when I think I’ve got things under control, one unexpected moment changes everything, leaving me questioning everything I thought I knew about him—and myself.
We’re keeping our romance a secret—especially from my brother. But when the press uncovers dirt on Alden, I’ll have to trust the man who’s captured my heart or walk away before I get hurt.
“Stuck with a Rival” is a sweet, heartwarming enemies-to-lovers hockey romance that combines humor, heart, and sizzle—without the spice. Perfect for sports romance fans who enjoy a slow-burn connection!
- GenresSports
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2024
36 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Ava Sparrow
14 books16 followersWe are Ava Sparrow, the writing duo behind your favorite Sweet Romance novels. Our passion is spreading love and happiness through our books, which delve into the various phases of love and relationships. Each story concludes by making the love even sweeter than it ever was.
Join us on this journey of love, laughter, and happily ever afters!
Join us on this journey of love, laughter, and happily ever afters!
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 22, 2024
Right off the bat might want to take a look at your introduction you have Aldon Cavill as Aldon Miller. Oops! This was a fun book. With all its banter, between the characters, it was a clean read.
Amy Lindas was told to meet her boss Chris, in Warroad, Minnesota, her hometown. One she had never planned on coming back, however, she had gone home a handful of times. Wanting to avoid him and all the memories that were associated with him and her hometown. She was trying to figure out why Chris would bring her to Holiday Hell. Every nook and cranny had been decorated, and the whole town got involved. Chris was being vague as to whom their client might be. All he kept saying was you’ll see. Amy was getting annoyed because she knew it wouldn’t be long before her mom found out she was in town.
She didn't like not being in control. She was dragged there and didn't like it. Sure enough, her mom sent a text saying, “Will we be seeing you for dinner?” When she looks up and out the window, she sees none other than, no, no, no, it can’t be. When the bell over the dinner door chimed, in walks Aldon Cavill. The very man she had been trying to avoid for the past two years strolls in like he owns the place. She hates that she remembered at all. “What the hell is he doing here?” She hiss at Chris, her hands gripping the edge of the table so hard her knuckles turn white.
Chris doesn’t answer, but his smile grows wider, and she wants to slap it right off his face. “Fancy seeing you here, Amy,” “I could say the same, Alden,” “But I’m not feeling very fancy today.” “Still as sassy as ever, I see. I missed that.” “Trust me, the feeling’s not mutual.” “What is this, Chris? Why is he here?” “I’m the client.” “You? The client?” “That’s right,” “Alden’s planning a big comeback after his injury, and he wants the best agency to handle his photos.” She snorts.
“And you think that’s us?” “Not ‘us’, Amy. You. I want you to be the main photographer for my sports magazine feature and the photo book.” “Why me? I thought you’d prefer some fangirl who’d swoon over every shot of your perfectly chiseled jawline.” “Oh, you think my jawline’s perfect?” “Well, to answer your question, pretty Amy, I want you because you’re the best.” “And I’ve seen your work,” he continues. “I’ve also read your reviews. You don’t sugarcoat things, and that’s exactly what I need. I need you.”
“I’m flattered,” I say with a deadpan expression. “But I don’t have time to babysit.” Chris clears his throat. He probably sensed my growing irritation. “Amy, this is a huge opportunity for us. For you. Think about what it would mean to have Alden Cavill’s comeback photos under your name. It could put Pro Shots on the map.” “Are you concerned about me, or about Pro Shots?” I ask. “You are Pro Shots, Amy, and Pro Shots is you,” he says with a winning smile.
“I don’t care about the map,” I mutter, feeling like an ill-mannered child. These two bring out the best and the worst in each other always had. Had they constructively used their words to communicate, how they were feeling, even thinking back then in those days, and even present-day they would, and could have saved so much heartache. Amy learned a valuable lesson about who you allow in your inner circle of friends. Her parents and brother tried telling her that Aldon was a good man who loved her, but she liked living in her unfounded righteous anger.
Amy Lindas was told to meet her boss Chris, in Warroad, Minnesota, her hometown. One she had never planned on coming back, however, she had gone home a handful of times. Wanting to avoid him and all the memories that were associated with him and her hometown. She was trying to figure out why Chris would bring her to Holiday Hell. Every nook and cranny had been decorated, and the whole town got involved. Chris was being vague as to whom their client might be. All he kept saying was you’ll see. Amy was getting annoyed because she knew it wouldn’t be long before her mom found out she was in town.
She didn't like not being in control. She was dragged there and didn't like it. Sure enough, her mom sent a text saying, “Will we be seeing you for dinner?” When she looks up and out the window, she sees none other than, no, no, no, it can’t be. When the bell over the dinner door chimed, in walks Aldon Cavill. The very man she had been trying to avoid for the past two years strolls in like he owns the place. She hates that she remembered at all. “What the hell is he doing here?” She hiss at Chris, her hands gripping the edge of the table so hard her knuckles turn white.
Chris doesn’t answer, but his smile grows wider, and she wants to slap it right off his face. “Fancy seeing you here, Amy,” “I could say the same, Alden,” “But I’m not feeling very fancy today.” “Still as sassy as ever, I see. I missed that.” “Trust me, the feeling’s not mutual.” “What is this, Chris? Why is he here?” “I’m the client.” “You? The client?” “That’s right,” “Alden’s planning a big comeback after his injury, and he wants the best agency to handle his photos.” She snorts.
“And you think that’s us?” “Not ‘us’, Amy. You. I want you to be the main photographer for my sports magazine feature and the photo book.” “Why me? I thought you’d prefer some fangirl who’d swoon over every shot of your perfectly chiseled jawline.” “Oh, you think my jawline’s perfect?” “Well, to answer your question, pretty Amy, I want you because you’re the best.” “And I’ve seen your work,” he continues. “I’ve also read your reviews. You don’t sugarcoat things, and that’s exactly what I need. I need you.”
“I’m flattered,” I say with a deadpan expression. “But I don’t have time to babysit.” Chris clears his throat. He probably sensed my growing irritation. “Amy, this is a huge opportunity for us. For you. Think about what it would mean to have Alden Cavill’s comeback photos under your name. It could put Pro Shots on the map.” “Are you concerned about me, or about Pro Shots?” I ask. “You are Pro Shots, Amy, and Pro Shots is you,” he says with a winning smile.
“I don’t care about the map,” I mutter, feeling like an ill-mannered child. These two bring out the best and the worst in each other always had. Had they constructively used their words to communicate, how they were feeling, even thinking back then in those days, and even present-day they would, and could have saved so much heartache. Amy learned a valuable lesson about who you allow in your inner circle of friends. Her parents and brother tried telling her that Aldon was a good man who loved her, but she liked living in her unfounded righteous anger.
November 15, 2024
STUCK WITH A RIVAL by Ava Sparrow has Alden and Amy’s paths crossing again after many years apart. She’s the one who got away but he’s a glutton for punishment. While trying to make a comeback on the ice after an injury, she’s the photographer he wants to document it all.
We get to know their history, how her brother is his best friend, how her parents treated him like a son, how he was always around and in the end how he made her life miserable. But does she know why he did what he did all those years ago? They take a step forward and so many back as they try to decipher their feelings. But is it too late?Can Amy put the past behind her and learn to trust?
The story has a few stories being told and hockey almost takes a back seat. There are twists and turns and so many emotions being triggered. Amy holds a lot of anger but is it justified? Will she get the second chance she finally thinks she wants? There is closure expressed differently than I expected but the story ended abruptly and left me wanting more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We get to know their history, how her brother is his best friend, how her parents treated him like a son, how he was always around and in the end how he made her life miserable. But does she know why he did what he did all those years ago? They take a step forward and so many back as they try to decipher their feelings. But is it too late?Can Amy put the past behind her and learn to trust?
The story has a few stories being told and hockey almost takes a back seat. There are twists and turns and so many emotions being triggered. Amy holds a lot of anger but is it justified? Will she get the second chance she finally thinks she wants? There is closure expressed differently than I expected but the story ended abruptly and left me wanting more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2024
Two Halves of a Whole
Rivals would be the perfect word to describe Amy and Alden’s relationship, from Amy’s perspective. Interesting how Alden never thought of it that way!
I see potential in this storyline for more books and I think Davis would be a great start. There isn’t much talk about who Alden’s teammates are so not sure if that could be a direction or not.
I love how Amy’s mom told her she hoped they would forget about this nonsense and just get married already! Moms always know best!
I just can’t believe the grudge Amy has held onto for a decade plus! I mean, when she found out the truth……so her best friend and her boyfriend were together in high school while her boyfriend was with her. And nobody told her why Alden beat up the boyfriend? In the beginning didn’t it say Amy was still friends with Kara? So everyone just kept a secret and let her think Alden was a terrible person when he in fact, he was the exact opposite. Makes me wonder about her level of maturity.
4 stars
Rivals would be the perfect word to describe Amy and Alden’s relationship, from Amy’s perspective. Interesting how Alden never thought of it that way!
I see potential in this storyline for more books and I think Davis would be a great start. There isn’t much talk about who Alden’s teammates are so not sure if that could be a direction or not.
I love how Amy’s mom told her she hoped they would forget about this nonsense and just get married already! Moms always know best!
I just can’t believe the grudge Amy has held onto for a decade plus! I mean, when she found out the truth……so her best friend and her boyfriend were together in high school while her boyfriend was with her. And nobody told her why Alden beat up the boyfriend? In the beginning didn’t it say Amy was still friends with Kara? So everyone just kept a secret and let her think Alden was a terrible person when he in fact, he was the exact opposite. Makes me wonder about her level of maturity.
4 stars
November 10, 2024
🏒ARC REVIEW🏒
This book 🥹🥲😮💨 This hit me right in the heart 💘 and just when I thought it was being repaired the next hit came! The intense and emotional longing that Alden has for Amy is beautifully heartbreaking!!❤️🩹 I did get a little annoyed with Amy at times, because she just didn’t want to see Alden for the amazing guy that he is. I also understood her and her reasons for keeping such a strong wall up. Overall I felt like it made the story more relatable and kept you wondering when she would finally let go of the past.
Alden held such a high torch for Amy, and she didn’t even know it. All the years of pining for his best friend’s little sister, the protectiveness over her, and he never even got to tell her… that is until he gets Amy to be the photographer for his photoshoot for a campaign that will help his career and ultimately Amy’s as well.
Amy always felt the connection between them but pegged it as hatred because of the person she thought he was.
What’ll happen when he finally starts breaking down her walls? Will she find out the truth about why Alden dumped her best friend, and beat up her ex?
The slow burn of their relationship will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end! ❤️🔥🤩 It has lots of sizzle without the spice, which was done so well!
The character development was so good as well as the plot! Wonderful story!! Adding this under my favorite sports romances!!
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book 🥹🥲😮💨 This hit me right in the heart 💘 and just when I thought it was being repaired the next hit came! The intense and emotional longing that Alden has for Amy is beautifully heartbreaking!!❤️🩹 I did get a little annoyed with Amy at times, because she just didn’t want to see Alden for the amazing guy that he is. I also understood her and her reasons for keeping such a strong wall up. Overall I felt like it made the story more relatable and kept you wondering when she would finally let go of the past.
Alden held such a high torch for Amy, and she didn’t even know it. All the years of pining for his best friend’s little sister, the protectiveness over her, and he never even got to tell her… that is until he gets Amy to be the photographer for his photoshoot for a campaign that will help his career and ultimately Amy’s as well.
Amy always felt the connection between them but pegged it as hatred because of the person she thought he was.
What’ll happen when he finally starts breaking down her walls? Will she find out the truth about why Alden dumped her best friend, and beat up her ex?
The slow burn of their relationship will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end! ❤️🔥🤩 It has lots of sizzle without the spice, which was done so well!
The character development was so good as well as the plot! Wonderful story!! Adding this under my favorite sports romances!!
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 6, 2024
Reconnecting to Her Past . . .
Alden Miller, a hockey star celebrity and Amy’s brother’s best friend, has always had feelings for Amy. She apparently misinterpreted how he felt about her after an incident back in high school where she got her facts all wrong and held on to a grudge toward him all this time. But now it’s time for her to grow up. The photo agency where she works wants to be sure to get his business for a major campaign, and he wants Amy to be his photographer. As often happens, working together will let her see the real person he is under his “star” persona, and she is beginning to feel their long-awaited attraction. But will she let her doubts and fears pull them apart? Is she ready to admit her feelings to him and accept his love? Or will she let herself lose what really matters to her and her future?
Alden Miller, a hockey star celebrity and Amy’s brother’s best friend, has always had feelings for Amy. She apparently misinterpreted how he felt about her after an incident back in high school where she got her facts all wrong and held on to a grudge toward him all this time. But now it’s time for her to grow up. The photo agency where she works wants to be sure to get his business for a major campaign, and he wants Amy to be his photographer. As often happens, working together will let her see the real person he is under his “star” persona, and she is beginning to feel their long-awaited attraction. But will she let her doubts and fears pull them apart? Is she ready to admit her feelings to him and accept his love? Or will she let herself lose what really matters to her and her future?
November 12, 2024
This story is a small-town romance that captures the sparks and complexities of reuniting with an old flame.
The dual perspectives are a highlight, offering readers insight into both characters’ motivations and growth.
However, it ticks all the boxes for romance but feels like it does little more.
Some of the internal monologues feel lengthy, slowing the pace at times.
A bit more variety in character interactions, especially with the supporting cast, could deepen the story’s emotional impact.
Overall, Stuck With a Rival is a typical read for fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy “enemies-to-lovers” and second-chance themes.
This book offers characters whose journeys feel real and relatable.
Recommended for anyone who loves a love story with a dash of rivalry and redemption.
The dual perspectives are a highlight, offering readers insight into both characters’ motivations and growth.
However, it ticks all the boxes for romance but feels like it does little more.
Some of the internal monologues feel lengthy, slowing the pace at times.
A bit more variety in character interactions, especially with the supporting cast, could deepen the story’s emotional impact.
Overall, Stuck With a Rival is a typical read for fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy “enemies-to-lovers” and second-chance themes.
This book offers characters whose journeys feel real and relatable.
Recommended for anyone who loves a love story with a dash of rivalry and redemption.
November 22, 2024
Is a sweet small town, hockey romance with no cliffhanger.
Some of the lines I really like ---- But if I’m going to be paraded around like a prize horse, I might as well make it worth my while. I want someone who isn’t going to kiss my ass or treat me like a headline. I want someone who sees me. ---- “Take this opportunity and make the best of it. Focus on your work. Don’t let the past hold you back.” ---- "I’m well aware they’re idiots. But don’t act like you’re any different, Alden. I know how this works. You and your buddies talk about girls like we’re trophies, something to be won. It’s disgusting, but hey, that’s life, right?” ---- "teamwork makes the dream work.” ----
What's up with Chris? What's up with Tony?
I loved Amy and Alden's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books I've read and can't wait to read her next book.
Some of the lines I really like ---- But if I’m going to be paraded around like a prize horse, I might as well make it worth my while. I want someone who isn’t going to kiss my ass or treat me like a headline. I want someone who sees me. ---- “Take this opportunity and make the best of it. Focus on your work. Don’t let the past hold you back.” ---- "I’m well aware they’re idiots. But don’t act like you’re any different, Alden. I know how this works. You and your buddies talk about girls like we’re trophies, something to be won. It’s disgusting, but hey, that’s life, right?” ---- "teamwork makes the dream work.” ----
What's up with Chris? What's up with Tony?
I loved Amy and Alden's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books I've read and can't wait to read her next book.
April 16, 2025
disappointed
Honestly I’m a little disappointed. This had so much buzz about it and I was let down. There were multiple time lines that didn’t match up chapter to chapter. Scenes that were completely different chapter to chapter. Also, Amy didn’t deserve Alden. He laid everything out for her point blank and she just kept beating him down. And Alden dude, have some dignity. Man up- if she doesn’t want you you can fight but the lengths he went were embarrassing. And also he’s an adult. Tell Tony no. And honestly if my manager treated my feelings like that I’d fire him so quick. Not keep listening to him And making excuses.
Also Davis makes a big deal out of Alden and Amy but then there’s no mention of it when they get together? There were also so many unfinished story lines and ones that didn’t make sense.
Not my favorite
Honestly I’m a little disappointed. This had so much buzz about it and I was let down. There were multiple time lines that didn’t match up chapter to chapter. Scenes that were completely different chapter to chapter. Also, Amy didn’t deserve Alden. He laid everything out for her point blank and she just kept beating him down. And Alden dude, have some dignity. Man up- if she doesn’t want you you can fight but the lengths he went were embarrassing. And also he’s an adult. Tell Tony no. And honestly if my manager treated my feelings like that I’d fire him so quick. Not keep listening to him And making excuses.
Also Davis makes a big deal out of Alden and Amy but then there’s no mention of it when they get together? There were also so many unfinished story lines and ones that didn’t make sense.
Not my favorite
November 10, 2024
Alden has been in love with Amy for most of his life. Yet Amy doesn't see the real Alden under the mask of bad boy. And she has been wrong about him all the time. Even when they become close. Especially then. Call her blind.
Let's not call it sweet small town romance but long way to trust. There are definitely a lot of trust issues, avoiding and building walls around the heart. Two steps forward, three steps back. It's not an easy walk.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Let's not call it sweet small town romance but long way to trust. There are definitely a lot of trust issues, avoiding and building walls around the heart. Two steps forward, three steps back. It's not an easy walk.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2024
OH WOW !!!!! Great story. Their romance was forbidden as the drama grows to develop in chaos so it is and action packed of passion and love. Amy and Alden chemistry was like a rollercoaster ride. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn't even put it down. They couldn't fight the temptation any longer as the sparks between them was like firework smoking hotness. I highly recommend this book and you won't be disappointed. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones
November 12, 2024
A lovely story about being in love and misunderstood. Alden Miller is her brother’s friend , he also happens to be a famous hockey star who she’s avoided like the plague . But when she’s forced to interview the arrogant infuriating jerk, she finds her views wanting. She trusts in her instincts when things are sent to test and contest and in the end he’s more than a friend. Well written ,sweet romance
January 8, 2025
Amy has held onto anger towards Alden for years due to a misunderstanding when they were teenagers. She thought he was trying to break her and her boyfriend up, when that was far from the truth. I got kind of annoyed at her for being so childish, but finally she changes her thinking. Basically closed door, some steamy kisses and scene where they are sharing his bed every night but nothing explicit.
January 5, 2026
This story wasn’t great and it wasn’t even very good… but it was just okay. Honestly, the author could have eliminated 50 pages and still had the same impact. Perhaps more banter and humor would have lifted the storyline, whereas the constant whining, grumbling and drama was really excessive. Anyway, this one really didn’t work for us. If we were just watching a TV show, we would have probably changed the channel…
November 10, 2024
Alden has been in love with Amy for most of his life. Now they will be thrown to work together.
This is a great romance novel with lots of heart. The characters grow throughout as they adjust their perspective of each other. Wonderful to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a great romance novel with lots of heart. The characters grow throughout as they adjust their perspective of each other. Wonderful to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2024
We probably all have that person, hopefully in our past, that we think we know, but found out we were wrong. Who Amy thinks Alden is and who he really is are two different people. Their past is based on misunderstandings, many of which he has allowed to continue to keep from hurting her feelings. I really enjoyed this story and Amy coming to know the Alden her brother knows.
February 15, 2025
It was just ok to me.
The back and forth from Amy was pretty annoying. It didn’t give them a lot of time to show their actual love for one another without some kind of conflict, which was always Amy’s fault. Then at the end they spend over a month apart, Amy apologizes, then it’s the end. No epilogue to see if their relationship finally progresses or anything.
The back and forth from Amy was pretty annoying. It didn’t give them a lot of time to show their actual love for one another without some kind of conflict, which was always Amy’s fault. Then at the end they spend over a month apart, Amy apologizes, then it’s the end. No epilogue to see if their relationship finally progresses or anything.
November 18, 2024
Did not finish. Feels, actions were off-putting; couldn't continue.
November 10, 2024
Amy thought she knew the circumstances of a conflict from her teenage years, when Alden beat the daylights out of her boyfriend when he caught Ben cheating on her, after cheating a first time with her supposed best friend. Amy let her misunderstanding build to anger and fester into hatred for Alden. This was truly a back and forth love story, since Amy deep in her heart loved Alden. Ava truly reflects the hurt and heartfelt emotions of a love story.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews