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Anteros' Return
Falling for my brother’s best friend wasn’t a choice.
He left and never looked back.
While he was basking in the glory of his football career, I was busy single handedly raising our son.
Now, after seven years of learning how to be the perfect mum, I faltered the second I came face to face with Beckett Ashmore, the guy that was my first everything was now the guy claiming he didn’t know.
Football was my life until I met Emily Ryton, my best friend’s sister.
She became more to me than just a girl.
She became the love of my life.
Now, after seven years, I finally see her again and it’s as if time stands still, causing me to relive all the happy memories we had.
That is until I learned someone was trying their damndest to keep us apart, by keeping the secret of all secrets from me…
I had a son.
And now not even the wrath of god will keep me away from them.
*Anteros' Return is a sweet Brother's best friend, second chance, sports standalone romance with a HEA, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2025
195 people are currently reading
650 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
June 16, 2025
Anteros' Return is one of those stories that stirs your every emotion. I couldn't put it down. ❤️
Emily is a single mom whose heart and world belong to her son. She went through heartbreak, betrayal, and the challenges of raising a child alone with so much quiet determination. I felt her pain and her love so deeply. And when Beckett, her first everything, returned, it hit like a wave. Seeing him piece together the truth and confront all he’d missed with Liam broke my heart. Their reunion was chaotic, tender, and just perfect. Watching Beckett and Liam form a bond was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.
I do wish they’d fought a bit harder for each other in the beginning. The miscommunication and lies dragged on for years, and part of me just wanted to shake them and yell, “Talk to each other!” But I also understood their choices, and the fear and insecurities behind them felt real. No one’s perfect, and that made their reunion feel even more earned.
What you can expect:
♡ sports romance
♡ second chance
♡ secret baby
♡ single mum
♡ brother's best friend
♡ sassy kid
♡ miscommunication
♡ slow burn
♡ dual pov
This story was exactly what I needed: emotional, sweet, and filled with love. The necklace, the big surprise (that I won’t spoil!), the baking, the football coaching scenes - everything came together so perfectly. It left me feeling warm, satisfied, and a little teary in the best way.
If you’re into single mom romances, emotional reunions, and heartfelt moments that make you want to hug the book when you're done, you must check out this one. ♥
Emily is a single mom whose heart and world belong to her son. She went through heartbreak, betrayal, and the challenges of raising a child alone with so much quiet determination. I felt her pain and her love so deeply. And when Beckett, her first everything, returned, it hit like a wave. Seeing him piece together the truth and confront all he’d missed with Liam broke my heart. Their reunion was chaotic, tender, and just perfect. Watching Beckett and Liam form a bond was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.
I do wish they’d fought a bit harder for each other in the beginning. The miscommunication and lies dragged on for years, and part of me just wanted to shake them and yell, “Talk to each other!” But I also understood their choices, and the fear and insecurities behind them felt real. No one’s perfect, and that made their reunion feel even more earned.
What you can expect:
♡ sports romance
♡ second chance
♡ secret baby
♡ single mum
♡ brother's best friend
♡ sassy kid
♡ miscommunication
♡ slow burn
♡ dual pov
This story was exactly what I needed: emotional, sweet, and filled with love. The necklace, the big surprise (that I won’t spoil!), the baking, the football coaching scenes - everything came together so perfectly. It left me feeling warm, satisfied, and a little teary in the best way.
If you’re into single mom romances, emotional reunions, and heartfelt moments that make you want to hug the book when you're done, you must check out this one. ♥
July 16, 2025
9 years of seperation.
Both were never been with anybody during the seperation.
No Ow drama nor Cheating.
HEA
Both were never been with anybody during the seperation.
No Ow drama nor Cheating.
HEA
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2025
I was sure I was going to love this because it’s exactly the kind of second-chance romance and “it’s always been you” story that gets me every time. But for some reason, it was just okay for me. I think it has to do with the story's pacing, repetitive parts, and the predictability of some events. The premise was great; it's just the execution that didn't work out for me. Also, I feel like the reason for their separation was something that easily could've been worked out had they just taken the time to actually go to see each other in person. I understand that this is how the author intended for this problem to unfold, and there's really nothing I can do about it. I still think there was a better way to handle it.
Anyway, I liked how the MCs finally started to fix what's broken with them before they even considered picking up where they left off. I liked how Beckett and Liam's relationship evolved into the father-son bond it was meant to be. Though I wish we got to see him spending time with his newly found grandparents. Also, I feel that the guy who caused them problems didn't get a proper comeuppance. He got away so easily, and I wish that hadn't been the case, but oh well, it's done.
Overall, it was alright. Didn't love it, didn't hate it. And if readers are looking for a safe second-chance romance, maybe they could give this book a try.
Book info:
- Second chance (9 yrs)
- Single mom
- Each other's first and ONLY!
- No cheating, OW, separation
- OM (the guy who caused their separation)
- HEA (5 yrs later, married, and with a second kid (daughter))
Note:
- He didn't know about the pregnancy and was told that the FMC moved on from him. He believed it and didn't pursue her, thinking she was happy with someone else. She called him multiple times during her pregnancy and even after she gave birth. But her number was blocked by someone else in his phone.
Anyway, I liked how the MCs finally started to fix what's broken with them before they even considered picking up where they left off. I liked how Beckett and Liam's relationship evolved into the father-son bond it was meant to be. Though I wish we got to see him spending time with his newly found grandparents. Also, I feel that the guy who caused them problems didn't get a proper comeuppance. He got away so easily, and I wish that hadn't been the case, but oh well, it's done.
Overall, it was alright. Didn't love it, didn't hate it. And if readers are looking for a safe second-chance romance, maybe they could give this book a try.
Book info:
- Second chance (9 yrs)
- Single mom
- Each other's first and ONLY!
- No cheating, OW, separation
- OM (the guy who caused their separation)
- HEA (5 yrs later, married, and with a second kid (daughter))
Note:
- He didn't know about the pregnancy and was told that the FMC moved on from him. He believed it and didn't pursue her, thinking she was happy with someone else. She called him multiple times during her pregnancy and even after she gave birth. But her number was blocked by someone else in his phone.
August 2, 2025
- Second Chance (done right)
- 8 years seperation
- Their first and only everything
- Brother best friend
- Football player (soccer)
- Single mom / secret child
- He got a tattoo of her
This was such a good second chance, with all the feels on how one they called their friend went behind their back and made sure they would split. He hurt them so much, and my heart broke for them, and I’m so glad they found their way back to each other.
The H gets hurt during a game, and decides to move back home while recovering. When he meets the h, and finds out she has a son, it doesn’t take long before he figures out it his boy, and the truth came out. Liked that this wasn’t dragged out.
h hold back a little because she was afraid he would leave them again, but the H was all in from the moment he found her again.
Safety:
- Completely safe, both celibate during seperation, no owd and no cheating. They have only ever been with each other, first kiss and everything 💗
- Some omd with a friend of them who was the reason they split up bc he wanted the h, but nothing happened between them.
- 8 years seperation
- Their first and only everything
- Brother best friend
- Football player (soccer)
- Single mom / secret child
- He got a tattoo of her
This was such a good second chance, with all the feels on how one they called their friend went behind their back and made sure they would split. He hurt them so much, and my heart broke for them, and I’m so glad they found their way back to each other.
The H gets hurt during a game, and decides to move back home while recovering. When he meets the h, and finds out she has a son, it doesn’t take long before he figures out it his boy, and the truth came out. Liked that this wasn’t dragged out.
h hold back a little because she was afraid he would leave them again, but the H was all in from the moment he found her again.
Safety:
- Completely safe, both celibate during seperation, no owd and no cheating. They have only ever been with each other, first kiss and everything 💗
- Some omd with a friend of them who was the reason they split up bc he wanted the h, but nothing happened between them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
Let me start by saying, this book made me fall in love with sports romance. And when a story makes me feel everything so deeply that means It’s carved itself into my heart, and I don’t think I’ll ever forget it or the characters.
I would win Emily Ryton back. No matter what, she belonged with me just as I did her.
Emily’s story is one of strength, love, heartbreak, and second chances. She fell in love with her brother’s best friend years ago, before she became the talented baker everyone in town adores. And when I say she loved him, I mean From the very first glance, she felt it. Her heart fluttered. She flushed. It was the kind of moment that screams meant to be. But fate isn’t always kind. She got pregnant. And he didn't want anything to do with them. Or at least, that’s what she thought. She’s raising her son with all the love that she has. She’s also carrying the pain of the past, the love she never truly got to hold onto.
But then… the past walks back in to her life.
Beckett, once the star of his football team, returns home after an injury forces him off the field. It’s been seven years since he left, carrying heartbreak and regret. Seven long years of avoiding the place that reminded him of her. Of what he lost. He thinks she’s happy without him. He believes she’s moved on. But he has no idea about the son waiting to meet him… or the truth that’s been kept from them both. She believes he wanted nothing to do with her or the baby. But neither of them knows the full truth about the lies that kept them apart and the years stolen from them.
Liam I love this kid so much his attitude is everything. I laughed so hard when he gave Beckett attitude. He’s talented, sweet, and so protective of his mom. He’d do anything to make her happy, and watching their bond just melted me.
This was the man I had loved and lost, but now he stood before me, wanting me just as much as all those years ago.
This book made me feel all the emotions, anger for their separation, happiness when they started building up their relationship again, swooning over Beckett and his gestures that made my heart melt, Samantha has an incredible way of putting the story together I loved every second of this and I can't wait to read more of her work.
I would win Emily Ryton back. No matter what, she belonged with me just as I did her.
Emily’s story is one of strength, love, heartbreak, and second chances. She fell in love with her brother’s best friend years ago, before she became the talented baker everyone in town adores. And when I say she loved him, I mean From the very first glance, she felt it. Her heart fluttered. She flushed. It was the kind of moment that screams meant to be. But fate isn’t always kind. She got pregnant. And he didn't want anything to do with them. Or at least, that’s what she thought. She’s raising her son with all the love that she has. She’s also carrying the pain of the past, the love she never truly got to hold onto.
But then… the past walks back in to her life.
Beckett, once the star of his football team, returns home after an injury forces him off the field. It’s been seven years since he left, carrying heartbreak and regret. Seven long years of avoiding the place that reminded him of her. Of what he lost. He thinks she’s happy without him. He believes she’s moved on. But he has no idea about the son waiting to meet him… or the truth that’s been kept from them both. She believes he wanted nothing to do with her or the baby. But neither of them knows the full truth about the lies that kept them apart and the years stolen from them.
Liam I love this kid so much his attitude is everything. I laughed so hard when he gave Beckett attitude. He’s talented, sweet, and so protective of his mom. He’d do anything to make her happy, and watching their bond just melted me.
This was the man I had loved and lost, but now he stood before me, wanting me just as much as all those years ago.
This book made me feel all the emotions, anger for their separation, happiness when they started building up their relationship again, swooning over Beckett and his gestures that made my heart melt, Samantha has an incredible way of putting the story together I loved every second of this and I can't wait to read more of her work.
November 23, 2025
Mixed thoughts
I liked it but why did he never call or come looking for her? In nine whole years? it said he always loved her but that doesn't mean he was celibate? I know she was. That was clarified but him? No idea? Did he have girlfriends!? Did he have sex? I couldn't find any clarification in the book. And I don't care what mike said, he should have called her. Just some stuff that didn't jive. And mike said he blocked her number on beckett's phone but he received one from her number after he got home! It should still be blocked. I just don't trust men. I liked little Liam and her brother Harry. Good family. I though Beckett was off. That is just me. And boy he was some stud in the sack when they got back together but I didn't find it romantic. A little cringy but that is just me. The ending was good and they of course lived happily ever after. Epilogue was sweet too.
I liked it but why did he never call or come looking for her? In nine whole years? it said he always loved her but that doesn't mean he was celibate? I know she was. That was clarified but him? No idea? Did he have girlfriends!? Did he have sex? I couldn't find any clarification in the book. And I don't care what mike said, he should have called her. Just some stuff that didn't jive. And mike said he blocked her number on beckett's phone but he received one from her number after he got home! It should still be blocked. I just don't trust men. I liked little Liam and her brother Harry. Good family. I though Beckett was off. That is just me. And boy he was some stud in the sack when they got back together but I didn't find it romantic. A little cringy but that is just me. The ending was good and they of course lived happily ever after. Epilogue was sweet too.
July 10, 2025
𓂃 ₊˚ Spice: 🌶️🌶️・₊ 𓂃
๋࣭ ݁⊹ ➨ The timelines jumping between the past and present in this book hooked me right away. I’ve always loved books that give you a glimpse of memories from the main characters’ past. Especially when we get a better look into how they grow in their romantic relationship and reconnect, which adds an extra emotional layer to the story.
The brother’s best friend romance side to it was fun, but the second chance was a bit messy for me. Some parts dragged on longer than I wanted, and I found it to be a bit frustrating. But, healing in general isn’t quick or pretty in real life and the characters here were really doing the work to rebuild their lost connection.
In my personal opinion, it was a medium paced read and if you’re in the mood for a sports romance that’ll make you feel every emotion, then this would be perfect.
. ݁⊹ ♡. ೃ Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Samantha Jayne for this beautiful ARC copy!
๋࣭ ݁⊹ ➨ The timelines jumping between the past and present in this book hooked me right away. I’ve always loved books that give you a glimpse of memories from the main characters’ past. Especially when we get a better look into how they grow in their romantic relationship and reconnect, which adds an extra emotional layer to the story.
The brother’s best friend romance side to it was fun, but the second chance was a bit messy for me. Some parts dragged on longer than I wanted, and I found it to be a bit frustrating. But, healing in general isn’t quick or pretty in real life and the characters here were really doing the work to rebuild their lost connection.
In my personal opinion, it was a medium paced read and if you’re in the mood for a sports romance that’ll make you feel every emotion, then this would be perfect.
. ݁⊹ ♡. ೃ Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Samantha Jayne for this beautiful ARC copy!
May 26, 2025
Just finished ARC Anteros’ Return and I’m officially OBSESSED.
🩵🫐🫧🤍🧁🌻🍯⚽️
✨✨✨✨✨/5
MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS
I LOVED THIS BOOK. I enjoy second chance romance books sm therefore this was cherry on cake, or should I say cupcake??(😂🫠)
Emily and Beckett’s story melted my heart in all ways. From the cupcake tattoo to the emotional rollercoaster of love, betrayal, and healing—this book gave me everything. Emily is the sunflower-loving, strong-hearted queen we all need. And Beckett?? He’s the definition of a second-chance romance dream. A HOT football player, flawed but swoon-worthy man trying to win back his family. And little Liam? The sassiest, sweetest kid—I’m in love.
Let’s not forget Mike, the toxic goblin, made me rage sm, THE HATE I HAVE FOR HIM haha let’s just say… if I could throw him into a fictional dumpster I would :Dddd. Harry’s protective big brother energy added all the feels.
@samanthajayne.writes – LIKE ALWAYS you completely stole my heart with this one. I’M IN LOVE WITH YOUR BOOKS. Thank you for writing such a beautiful, emotional, and hope-filled love story. I didn’t want it to end! She always knows how to get me in my feels!!
If you love second chances, small-town tension, drama, sport romance, and characters that feel real, READ THIS BOOK. You’ll cry, swoon, and smile all at once.
🩵🫐🫧🤍🧁🌻🍯⚽️
✨✨✨✨✨/5
MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS
I LOVED THIS BOOK. I enjoy second chance romance books sm therefore this was cherry on cake, or should I say cupcake??(😂🫠)
Emily and Beckett’s story melted my heart in all ways. From the cupcake tattoo to the emotional rollercoaster of love, betrayal, and healing—this book gave me everything. Emily is the sunflower-loving, strong-hearted queen we all need. And Beckett?? He’s the definition of a second-chance romance dream. A HOT football player, flawed but swoon-worthy man trying to win back his family. And little Liam? The sassiest, sweetest kid—I’m in love.
Let’s not forget Mike, the toxic goblin, made me rage sm, THE HATE I HAVE FOR HIM haha let’s just say… if I could throw him into a fictional dumpster I would :Dddd. Harry’s protective big brother energy added all the feels.
@samanthajayne.writes – LIKE ALWAYS you completely stole my heart with this one. I’M IN LOVE WITH YOUR BOOKS. Thank you for writing such a beautiful, emotional, and hope-filled love story. I didn’t want it to end! She always knows how to get me in my feels!!
If you love second chances, small-town tension, drama, sport romance, and characters that feel real, READ THIS BOOK. You’ll cry, swoon, and smile all at once.
July 18, 2025
“I mean every single word. I have loved you from the day I met you. I loved you then, and I love you now. I loved you every day for the years we were apart, and I will love you until my dying breath.” The tip of his nose circled mine as his hair tickled my forehead. “You are my endgame, Em, and if you ask me who I see beside me for the rest of my life, it will always be you.”
MAIN CHARACTERS' NAME
Emily Ryton | Beckett Ashmore
FEATURES
• Single mom
• Secret Pregnancy
• Brother's ex best friend
• Golden retriever x Black cat
• Sports Romance
• Second Chance Romance
• Found Family
REVIEW
I like this prequel!! this book is honestly such a cute, angst quick read.
the chapters are often small/short so I very much enjoyed it!
Starting off, I love the fact that it isn't like any other secret pregnancy romance trope. Usually, the child of the secret pregnancy will often be so close with their dads but not this one!
Liam is such a protective kid at a small age for his mom and never wants to see his mom being hurt. He doesn't like Beckett, but to see their bonds slowly grow is soo cute!
The fact that Liam doesn't care he's benched for the match because he was being rude to Beckett is so cute. He loves football, but he loves his mom more.
It's not like any other books where the child suddenly knows they got something linked with their secret parents, this one is the reality!
The miscommunication, the fact that Beckett actually never knew he had a son because everyone around him lied to him had me GAGGED.
But something about the way he left everyone once he was famous icked me. I know he redeemed himself but uhh....
Love Harry for being so protective over his sister knowing that Beckett, his best friend, hurts her so much and alot, never being on Beckett's side and always protecting his little sister.
Emily is such a real character! she doesn't care about dating anymore after Beckett hurt her. She only focused on herself and that's what matters!
When Beckett came back, I love how she doesn't easily caved in like any other FMC in some books, because that's pathetic!!
The nicknames, the meaning behind them, the tattoo and 'BEE', iykyk.
The spice is there, but not TOO much.
Overall, I recommend it to everyone who wants a cute, quick read to get over the reading slump!
OW / OM DRAMA no
CHEATING no
THIRD-ACT BREAKUP second chance romance
ENDING HEA
POV dual POV/1st Person POV
SPICE LEVEL 2.5/5
RATING 2.5/5
MAIN CHARACTERS' NAME
Emily Ryton | Beckett Ashmore
FEATURES
• Single mom
• Secret Pregnancy
• Brother's ex best friend
• Golden retriever x Black cat
• Sports Romance
• Second Chance Romance
• Found Family
REVIEW
I like this prequel!! this book is honestly such a cute, angst quick read.
the chapters are often small/short so I very much enjoyed it!
Starting off, I love the fact that it isn't like any other secret pregnancy romance trope. Usually, the child of the secret pregnancy will often be so close with their dads but not this one!
Liam is such a protective kid at a small age for his mom and never wants to see his mom being hurt. He doesn't like Beckett, but to see their bonds slowly grow is soo cute!
The fact that Liam doesn't care he's benched for the match because he was being rude to Beckett is so cute. He loves football, but he loves his mom more.
It's not like any other books where the child suddenly knows they got something linked with their secret parents, this one is the reality!
The miscommunication, the fact that Beckett actually never knew he had a son because everyone around him lied to him had me GAGGED.
But something about the way he left everyone once he was famous icked me. I know he redeemed himself but uhh....
Love Harry for being so protective over his sister knowing that Beckett, his best friend, hurts her so much and alot, never being on Beckett's side and always protecting his little sister.
Emily is such a real character! she doesn't care about dating anymore after Beckett hurt her. She only focused on herself and that's what matters!
When Beckett came back, I love how she doesn't easily caved in like any other FMC in some books, because that's pathetic!!
The nicknames, the meaning behind them, the tattoo and 'BEE', iykyk.
The spice is there, but not TOO much.
Overall, I recommend it to everyone who wants a cute, quick read to get over the reading slump!
OW / OM DRAMA no
CHEATING no
THIRD-ACT BREAKUP second chance romance
ENDING HEA
POV dual POV/1st Person POV
SPICE LEVEL 2.5/5
RATING 2.5/5
May 21, 2025
I devoured this book 🤩
From the very first page, Anteros’ Return gripped my heart and refused to let go. It wasn't just a second chance romance , it’s a story about pain, growth ,forgiveness, healing and love that never truly fades. 🩵🩵
Emily’s strength as a single mom broke my heart and inspired me at the same time . Watching her navigate the impossible , being left behind and raising a son on her own , made me admire her even more.🥹
" 𝙈𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝, 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙡, 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡'𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙤𝙩𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧"
Beckett’s return, his shock, his love , his rage and heartbreak when he found out the truth … it was so powerful.
"𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙄 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣."
The chemistry between them? Undeniabl❤️🔥❤️🔥
It was tender, electric, emotional… and i was ALL in for it 🫠🫠🫠..
Their love story gave me butterflies and tears all at once. I couldn’t stop rooting for them—through the anger, the healing, and the rebuilding of trust between them .
And Liam? Pure joy. Love the little dude with his bigger than his head attitude 😂.
This journey is emotional, raw, and so beautiful. I’m still thinking about them and can't see myself stopping anytime soon.😍😍
If you love a swoony, heartfelt story with a strong heroine, a protective hero, and a surprise son that melts your heart, this one’s for you. This book will stay with me for a long time.
From the very first page, Anteros’ Return gripped my heart and refused to let go. It wasn't just a second chance romance , it’s a story about pain, growth ,forgiveness, healing and love that never truly fades. 🩵🩵
Emily’s strength as a single mom broke my heart and inspired me at the same time . Watching her navigate the impossible , being left behind and raising a son on her own , made me admire her even more.🥹
" 𝙈𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝, 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙡, 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡'𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙤𝙩𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧"
Beckett’s return, his shock, his love , his rage and heartbreak when he found out the truth … it was so powerful.
"𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙄 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣."
The chemistry between them? Undeniabl❤️🔥❤️🔥
It was tender, electric, emotional… and i was ALL in for it 🫠🫠🫠..
Their love story gave me butterflies and tears all at once. I couldn’t stop rooting for them—through the anger, the healing, and the rebuilding of trust between them .
And Liam? Pure joy. Love the little dude with his bigger than his head attitude 😂.
This journey is emotional, raw, and so beautiful. I’m still thinking about them and can't see myself stopping anytime soon.😍😍
If you love a swoony, heartfelt story with a strong heroine, a protective hero, and a surprise son that melts your heart, this one’s for you. This book will stay with me for a long time.
November 17, 2025
Anteros’ Return – Samantha Jayne
Narrated by Sean Masters & Kiri Savage
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)
This one ended up being a gentle listen that just didn’t quite hit the emotional mark I was hoping for.
The story itself is very accessible and would absolutely suit readers who love:
🧡 second chance romance
♥️ miscommunication
💚 surprise child tropes
If those are your catnip, you’ll probably have a much better time than I did.
My main struggle was the structure. There are frequent in‑chapter flashbacks, and instead of deepening my connection to the characters, they kept pulling me out of the main storyline. Because of that, the romance stayed at a slow simmer and never really built to the big emotional payoff I was waiting for.
Content-wise, I also had an issue with the flashback to when the child was conceived. It’s quite graphic and, for me, felt unrealistic for her first time, especially considering the characters would’ve been around 15/16. That age combined with the explicit detail gave me the ick a little. I love a good smutty scene, but in this particular context I think a fade-to-black would’ve worked better and felt more comfortable.
On the flip side, the narration was a huge highlight. Sean Masters and Kiri Savage were incredible, their performances, accents, and delivery really brought the characters and setting to life and added a lot of vibrancy to the story. If you’re an audiobook girly, the narrators definitely elevate the experience.
Overall, Anteros’ Return wasn’t quite for me, but I can see it really working for readers who enjoy a softer, second-chance romance with a surprise baby twist.
Narrated by Sean Masters & Kiri Savage
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)
This one ended up being a gentle listen that just didn’t quite hit the emotional mark I was hoping for.
The story itself is very accessible and would absolutely suit readers who love:
🧡 second chance romance
♥️ miscommunication
💚 surprise child tropes
If those are your catnip, you’ll probably have a much better time than I did.
My main struggle was the structure. There are frequent in‑chapter flashbacks, and instead of deepening my connection to the characters, they kept pulling me out of the main storyline. Because of that, the romance stayed at a slow simmer and never really built to the big emotional payoff I was waiting for.
Content-wise, I also had an issue with the flashback to when the child was conceived. It’s quite graphic and, for me, felt unrealistic for her first time, especially considering the characters would’ve been around 15/16. That age combined with the explicit detail gave me the ick a little. I love a good smutty scene, but in this particular context I think a fade-to-black would’ve worked better and felt more comfortable.
On the flip side, the narration was a huge highlight. Sean Masters and Kiri Savage were incredible, their performances, accents, and delivery really brought the characters and setting to life and added a lot of vibrancy to the story. If you’re an audiobook girly, the narrators definitely elevate the experience.
Overall, Anteros’ Return wasn’t quite for me, but I can see it really working for readers who enjoy a softer, second-chance romance with a surprise baby twist.
June 18, 2025
Thank you so much @sunnybabepr and @samanthajayne.writes for sending me a copy of Anteros’ Return 🥹it was the romance I never knew I needed and I loved it so much!
This book had me hooked right from the start. I mean, come on- falling for your brother’s best friend as childhood friends, a secret child trope AND a swoony second-chance romance? Yes please!!😍😍
Emily was such a strong, relatable character. You really feel for her, raising her son on her own for seven years while the guy she loved was off living his football dreams, thinking he didn’t care at all. And then Beckett comes back and doesn’t even know he has a kid?! PLUS the reasons why he didn’t know?! THE DRAMA! 😭
But honestly, Beckett surprised me in the best way. Once he finds out about Liam, he steps up and his moments with his son (and with Emily too, let’s be real) were so heart-melting 🥹💘 And the chemistry between Emily and Beckett? Off. The. Charts!! 😍🔥🌶️
If you’re into sweet, feel-good romance with some real emotional weight, definitely get yourself onto Kindle and download!! It left me smiling like an idiot, and even a little teary in the best way 🥹💛
Anteros’ Return is available on Kindle Unlimited or for purchase right now! 😍
This book had me hooked right from the start. I mean, come on- falling for your brother’s best friend as childhood friends, a secret child trope AND a swoony second-chance romance? Yes please!!😍😍
Emily was such a strong, relatable character. You really feel for her, raising her son on her own for seven years while the guy she loved was off living his football dreams, thinking he didn’t care at all. And then Beckett comes back and doesn’t even know he has a kid?! PLUS the reasons why he didn’t know?! THE DRAMA! 😭
But honestly, Beckett surprised me in the best way. Once he finds out about Liam, he steps up and his moments with his son (and with Emily too, let’s be real) were so heart-melting 🥹💘 And the chemistry between Emily and Beckett? Off. The. Charts!! 😍🔥🌶️
If you’re into sweet, feel-good romance with some real emotional weight, definitely get yourself onto Kindle and download!! It left me smiling like an idiot, and even a little teary in the best way 🥹💛
Anteros’ Return is available on Kindle Unlimited or for purchase right now! 😍
November 21, 2025
3.5 rounded up
This was cute sweet and fluffy. Completely safe. Their reasoning behind a 8 yr separation was kind of stupid. If it was a much smaller time gap I could have gotten on board but almost a decade is such a long time.
As a mother, it also bothered me that she never sat down with her son and asked him why he hated his new coach so much. I know that would have ruined the extension of the plot but it drove me crazy.
Overall, it’s a good one if you need something light.
This was cute sweet and fluffy. Completely safe. Their reasoning behind a 8 yr separation was kind of stupid. If it was a much smaller time gap I could have gotten on board but almost a decade is such a long time.
As a mother, it also bothered me that she never sat down with her son and asked him why he hated his new coach so much. I know that would have ruined the extension of the plot but it drove me crazy.
Overall, it’s a good one if you need something light.
October 8, 2025
So freaking cuteeeeee
Alltså Liam va ju de gölligaste barnet jag har skådat, alltså ska uppfostra mina barn sådär
Älskar att få läsa om när folk bakar, blir dock så hungrig av det
Beck och Em alltså endgame forever
Men Mike han e dum han kan försvinna
Alltså Liam va ju de gölligaste barnet jag har skådat, alltså ska uppfostra mina barn sådär
Älskar att få läsa om när folk bakar, blir dock så hungrig av det
Beck och Em alltså endgame forever
Men Mike han e dum han kan försvinna
July 16, 2025
DFN na 70 strane. Forma písania a deja vhodná na wattpade a aj to by tam vlastne vyzeralo zle.
August 7, 2025
Mmm...no
June 5, 2025
This was a very sweet second chance love story at the heart. I enjoyed it but it wasn’t love for me. Parts of it felt rushed others felt drawn out. I did like the characters and I love an English setting with the fun words and slang.
May 27, 2025
Bonus points my friend did amazing job this book , I love good brother bestfriend book, everything about this book was so cute , your looking for small town romance this book is for you and it comes out may 31
Also I love Emily and Beckett realtionship, how he was there for Emily and his son always 🩷
Also I love Emily and Beckett realtionship, how he was there for Emily and his son always 🩷
July 5, 2025
I would say this booked earned itself a 3.5 star. It started of very slow for me and I wasn’t a fan of the writing or idk just how it was going, i did enjoy the concept though, something just didn’t click for me at the beginning though and it took till have 30/40% for me to really me enjoying the book.
However, it did pick up and i felt like the writing was growing on me, it was easy to read and nothing too complicated where my brain needed to work and just focus on enjoying the book, and in the end I did enjoy it.
I really did start to love it towards the end, it was cute and funny and just very wholesome overall, and i did think at one point that there was a few smut scenes shoved at the end but tbh they were like finally together and out about it, haven’t seen the loves of their lives for 7+ years so tbh, yeah, go for it and fuck as much as you want. You’ll deserve it.
I hate men called mark.
Liam was adorable and i want him as a son. Or even a bestie
I want to try the raspberry and white chocolate cupcakes.
The fucking bee tattoo, omg, loveeeeeee.
This was an ARC copy from Sunny Babe, thank you so much for it, lots of love.
However, it did pick up and i felt like the writing was growing on me, it was easy to read and nothing too complicated where my brain needed to work and just focus on enjoying the book, and in the end I did enjoy it.
I really did start to love it towards the end, it was cute and funny and just very wholesome overall, and i did think at one point that there was a few smut scenes shoved at the end but tbh they were like finally together and out about it, haven’t seen the loves of their lives for 7+ years so tbh, yeah, go for it and fuck as much as you want. You’ll deserve it.
I hate men called mark.
Liam was adorable and i want him as a son. Or even a bestie
I want to try the raspberry and white chocolate cupcakes.
The fucking bee tattoo, omg, loveeeeeee.
This was an ARC copy from Sunny Babe, thank you so much for it, lots of love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
“Anteros is love returned.”
And Anteros Return by Samantha Jayne is exactly that—love returned, love rekindled, and love that wraps around you like the coziest blanket.
This book is such an easy, heartwarming page-turner. It’s sweet, swoon-worthy, and feels like a warm hug in book form. I devoured it in one sitting—I simply couldn’t put it down. Beck and Em are so ridiculously cute together, and their chemistry had me melting. And Liam—their adorable son—is the cherry on top. Every scene with him made my heart explode.
Also… let’s talk about Mike. I’ll write his name in glitter just to watch it burn. Seriously, I hated him with my whole chest. Karma better come for him with extra flair, because I was not ready to forgive or forget. I want him to trip on a Lego every morning for the rest of his life.
Anteros Return was exactly what I needed—sweet, cozy, satisfying, and such a perfect palate cleanser. This definitely won’t be my last Samantha Jayne read.
And Anteros Return by Samantha Jayne is exactly that—love returned, love rekindled, and love that wraps around you like the coziest blanket.
This book is such an easy, heartwarming page-turner. It’s sweet, swoon-worthy, and feels like a warm hug in book form. I devoured it in one sitting—I simply couldn’t put it down. Beck and Em are so ridiculously cute together, and their chemistry had me melting. And Liam—their adorable son—is the cherry on top. Every scene with him made my heart explode.
Also… let’s talk about Mike. I’ll write his name in glitter just to watch it burn. Seriously, I hated him with my whole chest. Karma better come for him with extra flair, because I was not ready to forgive or forget. I want him to trip on a Lego every morning for the rest of his life.
Anteros Return was exactly what I needed—sweet, cozy, satisfying, and such a perfect palate cleanser. This definitely won’t be my last Samantha Jayne read.
October 11, 2025
Anteros' Return, the prequel to the upcoming Zelus U series, was about Beckett "Beck" Ashmore, a famous football (soccer) player, and Emily "Em" Ryton, the local baker and single mother raising Liam, the son he didn't know he had. (No specific ages were given for any of the characters other than Liam, who the author listed as 7 years old. I'm including this information so that the next reader can create a rough timeline of the ages of the main characters. British students in Year 11 are generally between 15 and 16 years old. It is the direct equivalent of 10th grade (sophomore year) in the United States. Year 11 is significant as it concludes Key Stage 4 and culminates in students taking their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams. With that information, it meant Emily was a year or so younger than Harry and Beckett. So they were roughly 15-18 years old when they met, which would make them 24-27 when they meet up again. Correct me if I'm wrong, but without more information from the author, this was the best I could do. )
Emily met Beck when her brother, Harry, brought him to their home and introduced him to their family. He and his parents had just moved to their town and would be attending school with Harry and Emily. From that moment on, neither one of them had eyes for anyone else but each other. As the years went by, the two of them grew closer, and when Beckett left to join a football team in Spain, it had always been his intention to split the time between there and home so he could still be with Emily. However, things went sideways PDQ, and the next thing the reader knew, almost ten years had passed.
When Beckett suffered a serious injury during a game, he was benched for the rest of the season until he had healed. With no other recourse, he headed back to England, where the lies from the past began to quickly unravel, and he was back in the presence of Emily...and introduced to his son. The more time they spent together, the closer the three of them got. Eventually, the truth of the past became apparent, and everyone soon learned of the lies they had all been told that were used to keep the three main characters apart.
This story had so much angst and drama that it was almost overwhelming. Even the emotional rollercoaster was present with more than its fair share of twists and turns. The push/pull between the two main characters was so strong, it felt like they would never get back together. There was very little conflict in the story, other than the revelation of the truth and the fallout from it. Most things were swiftly swept away and forgotten, so the story, though long, was wrapped up too fast and left too many unresolved issues.
Both main characters were fully developed and mature, with plenty of room for growth. There were times when the child seemed to be wiser than his age, which was a bit disconcerting, as well as distracting. It was also part of the reason for this reader to be confused about the timeline.
There were some concerns with the story that prevented it from earning a five-star rating, one of which was the way the flashbacks were incorporated into the middle of the story, causing some confusion and interfering with the flow of the storyline. They were ill-placed and should have been written as separate chapters. Another issue was that, once the lies were revealed and the culprit(s) revealed, that was the end of that trope. It just...disappeared without the author informing the reader what the outcome was. Perhaps this will be revisited in one of the books that follow, but there's no hint as to whether or not that is the case. We may never know.
With all that said and written, I did think the story earned a solid four-star rating, and I can't wait to see which of the other characters (if any) get his/her own story, or if the future books will be standalones within the sequel.
Emily met Beck when her brother, Harry, brought him to their home and introduced him to their family. He and his parents had just moved to their town and would be attending school with Harry and Emily. From that moment on, neither one of them had eyes for anyone else but each other. As the years went by, the two of them grew closer, and when Beckett left to join a football team in Spain, it had always been his intention to split the time between there and home so he could still be with Emily. However, things went sideways PDQ, and the next thing the reader knew, almost ten years had passed.
When Beckett suffered a serious injury during a game, he was benched for the rest of the season until he had healed. With no other recourse, he headed back to England, where the lies from the past began to quickly unravel, and he was back in the presence of Emily...and introduced to his son. The more time they spent together, the closer the three of them got. Eventually, the truth of the past became apparent, and everyone soon learned of the lies they had all been told that were used to keep the three main characters apart.
This story had so much angst and drama that it was almost overwhelming. Even the emotional rollercoaster was present with more than its fair share of twists and turns. The push/pull between the two main characters was so strong, it felt like they would never get back together. There was very little conflict in the story, other than the revelation of the truth and the fallout from it. Most things were swiftly swept away and forgotten, so the story, though long, was wrapped up too fast and left too many unresolved issues.
Both main characters were fully developed and mature, with plenty of room for growth. There were times when the child seemed to be wiser than his age, which was a bit disconcerting, as well as distracting. It was also part of the reason for this reader to be confused about the timeline.
There were some concerns with the story that prevented it from earning a five-star rating, one of which was the way the flashbacks were incorporated into the middle of the story, causing some confusion and interfering with the flow of the storyline. They were ill-placed and should have been written as separate chapters. Another issue was that, once the lies were revealed and the culprit(s) revealed, that was the end of that trope. It just...disappeared without the author informing the reader what the outcome was. Perhaps this will be revisited in one of the books that follow, but there's no hint as to whether or not that is the case. We may never know.
With all that said and written, I did think the story earned a solid four-star rating, and I can't wait to see which of the other characters (if any) get his/her own story, or if the future books will be standalones within the sequel.
November 19, 2025
💔 Seven years apart… and one truth that changes everything
This story has all the ingredients of a romance designed to tug at the heartstrings brother’s best friend, second chance, surprise son, and the gut punch of seeing the love of your life again after seven years. At its core, it’s a story about missed timing, first love, and the determination to build a family that never should have been separated. The emotional intention behind this book is strong and clear, and if you enjoy low-angst, feel-good romances focused on love, family, and reconnection, there’s a lot here to appreciate.
The Story
Emily never meant to fall for her brother’s best friend and certainly not so deeply that he became her first everything. But Beckett left for his professional football career and never looked back. While he was building a name for himself, she was raising their son alone and doing everything she could to be the best mother possible.
After seven years of silence, a chance encounter changes everything. Beckett comes face to face with the girl he used to love and discovers the secret that was kept from him he has a son. For him, it’s a moment that resets his entire world. For Emily, it’s reopening a door she long ago forced herself to close. What follows is a journey of rebuilding trust, acknowledging what was lost, and deciding whether love can survive betrayal, distance, and time.
What I Loved
✔️ The emotional premise of a father learning he has a son
✔️ The flashbacks showing their teenage relationship and early love
✔️ The focus on family and forgiveness
✔️ A second-chance romance with a guaranteed HEA and no cheating
✔️ A light, low-drama story that reads easily and leaves you with a smile
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by Kiri Savage and Sean Masters, the audio experience is unquestionably a highlight. Their accents, delivery, and chemistry worked beautifully. The emotion between the characters felt richer because of their performances, and they gave the story more depth than the writing itself sometimes allowed. The dual voices kept the pacing engaging and made the romantic moments land naturally.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend
✔️ Surprise Baby / Secret Child
✔️ Sports Romance (Football)
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Family-Centered Love Story
✔️ Low Angst / Low Drama
✔️ HEA / Standalone
Final Thoughts
The emotional foundation of this story is undeniably strong, but not every scene gets the space it deserves. Key moments that should have landed with real impact especially family revelations and turning points move by too quickly to feel fully earned. The frequent early flashbacks also interrupt the momentum just when the present-day plot starts to build.
The result is a romance that stays low-stakes and gentle throughout. The characters clearly love each other, but the narrative rarely pushes them deep enough to let that love hurt or heal in a meaningful way. It’s heartfelt, but simplified comforting rather than consuming.
If you’re looking for a soft second-chance romance about reconnection, forgiveness, and choosing each other without chaos, this delivers exactly that. If you prefer intense pacing, emotional depth, and high-drama tension, it may fall short.
This story has all the ingredients of a romance designed to tug at the heartstrings brother’s best friend, second chance, surprise son, and the gut punch of seeing the love of your life again after seven years. At its core, it’s a story about missed timing, first love, and the determination to build a family that never should have been separated. The emotional intention behind this book is strong and clear, and if you enjoy low-angst, feel-good romances focused on love, family, and reconnection, there’s a lot here to appreciate.
The Story
Emily never meant to fall for her brother’s best friend and certainly not so deeply that he became her first everything. But Beckett left for his professional football career and never looked back. While he was building a name for himself, she was raising their son alone and doing everything she could to be the best mother possible.
After seven years of silence, a chance encounter changes everything. Beckett comes face to face with the girl he used to love and discovers the secret that was kept from him he has a son. For him, it’s a moment that resets his entire world. For Emily, it’s reopening a door she long ago forced herself to close. What follows is a journey of rebuilding trust, acknowledging what was lost, and deciding whether love can survive betrayal, distance, and time.
What I Loved
✔️ The emotional premise of a father learning he has a son
✔️ The flashbacks showing their teenage relationship and early love
✔️ The focus on family and forgiveness
✔️ A second-chance romance with a guaranteed HEA and no cheating
✔️ A light, low-drama story that reads easily and leaves you with a smile
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by Kiri Savage and Sean Masters, the audio experience is unquestionably a highlight. Their accents, delivery, and chemistry worked beautifully. The emotion between the characters felt richer because of their performances, and they gave the story more depth than the writing itself sometimes allowed. The dual voices kept the pacing engaging and made the romantic moments land naturally.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Brother’s Best Friend
✔️ Surprise Baby / Secret Child
✔️ Sports Romance (Football)
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Family-Centered Love Story
✔️ Low Angst / Low Drama
✔️ HEA / Standalone
Final Thoughts
The emotional foundation of this story is undeniably strong, but not every scene gets the space it deserves. Key moments that should have landed with real impact especially family revelations and turning points move by too quickly to feel fully earned. The frequent early flashbacks also interrupt the momentum just when the present-day plot starts to build.
The result is a romance that stays low-stakes and gentle throughout. The characters clearly love each other, but the narrative rarely pushes them deep enough to let that love hurt or heal in a meaningful way. It’s heartfelt, but simplified comforting rather than consuming.
If you’re looking for a soft second-chance romance about reconnection, forgiveness, and choosing each other without chaos, this delivers exactly that. If you prefer intense pacing, emotional depth, and high-drama tension, it may fall short.
May 29, 2025
ARC REVIEW 🦄🦋🧁🩷
Let me tell you this, I have never ever been so in love with this second chance and sport romance before and I didn’t even though what it would happen like come on?!?? It had me chokehold and showed me load of surprises like omg🧁✨😳💜
Beckett had tried everything to get the first love of his life back called Emily, the most beautiful woman in entire world ✨🌹👀🧁🩷
While he kept trying to get his life completed while Emily lived around 8-7 years of being manipulated by Beckett’s self called friend? Like I would kill the shit out of this person who did this to my favourite couple 🥲🧁💜
My real reaction of Beckett found out that he had a kid? My face went 😧😦😮🫤🫠………. I was following along with his reaction and I was speechless as he was, even tho I knew the tropes but STILL!!!!✨🩷😮
I felt so bad for how Beckett was treated, I wanted to cry with him, hug him so badly like people? He needed some respect and care? Not hated by people he cares?!? Like AHHHH🥲😢💜…..
Emily had always loved Beckett no matter how hard it was for her to always thought of he would leave her but I would say both of them had been struggling? And it’s not their fault that it happened 😢🩷✨
I hated to see them struggle along with their son Liam😢💜✨
My experience in this book has been the best and lovely, I had never ever felt so adorable and strongly connected to it before, and the father and son relationship was building up slowly till it got so cuter and better ✨🩷🥺🦄🦋🌹
I was overwhelmed, excited, loved, cared, talked to myself of how amazing this book went and even the spice was full of love and joy. And it really showed how much Emily and Beckett meant to be together and I knew it would end good 🌹🦋✨💜🧁🦄🩷
And on top of that i never liked Mike clown? He was so pride and heartless toward Beckett and kept fishing after what is not his? Like come the fuck on? He had embarrassed himself enough and HE WAS BEING SO LUNATIC LIKE LOOK HOW UGLY AND STUPID HE WENT AND WAS 🖤😂🤡✨
LOAD OF PLOT TWIST HAD ME KEPT GOING ON READING ALL OVER AGAIN, in the train, at home, literally everywhere?!?? 🥺✨💜🦄🌹👀
Emily made me fall in life with baking, and craving with everything that has to do with raspberry in it, and already next week? I would love to make a cheesecake with raspberry to lunch and I can’t wait to make it happen 💜🌹🩷🧁
The ending was so cute, lovely and so brutally beautiful as it is, this is so satisfying ending, it was from the surprise of Emily got a bakery shop by Beckett and Liam, and Beckett was in a football match and even won but on top of that he was surprised to become a dad for the second time?!? I WAS SCREAMING IN THE INSIDE WHEN THAT HAPPEN LIKE AHHHHHH🦄✨🩷💜🧁🦄🦋✨🥺🫠
I love this book especially it has football vibe in it 🥅✨
I still have load of things to say about this book and I would like to say 10 million stars out of 5✨🌹🩷🧁👀🧁🩷💜💜💜💜🌹👀👀🧁👀🩷🩷✨✨✨🦄🦋
This is how much I love this book🩷💜🧁🌹✨
Let me tell you this, I have never ever been so in love with this second chance and sport romance before and I didn’t even though what it would happen like come on?!?? It had me chokehold and showed me load of surprises like omg🧁✨😳💜
Beckett had tried everything to get the first love of his life back called Emily, the most beautiful woman in entire world ✨🌹👀🧁🩷
While he kept trying to get his life completed while Emily lived around 8-7 years of being manipulated by Beckett’s self called friend? Like I would kill the shit out of this person who did this to my favourite couple 🥲🧁💜
My real reaction of Beckett found out that he had a kid? My face went 😧😦😮🫤🫠………. I was following along with his reaction and I was speechless as he was, even tho I knew the tropes but STILL!!!!✨🩷😮
I felt so bad for how Beckett was treated, I wanted to cry with him, hug him so badly like people? He needed some respect and care? Not hated by people he cares?!? Like AHHHH🥲😢💜…..
Emily had always loved Beckett no matter how hard it was for her to always thought of he would leave her but I would say both of them had been struggling? And it’s not their fault that it happened 😢🩷✨
I hated to see them struggle along with their son Liam😢💜✨
My experience in this book has been the best and lovely, I had never ever felt so adorable and strongly connected to it before, and the father and son relationship was building up slowly till it got so cuter and better ✨🩷🥺🦄🦋🌹
I was overwhelmed, excited, loved, cared, talked to myself of how amazing this book went and even the spice was full of love and joy. And it really showed how much Emily and Beckett meant to be together and I knew it would end good 🌹🦋✨💜🧁🦄🩷
And on top of that i never liked Mike clown? He was so pride and heartless toward Beckett and kept fishing after what is not his? Like come the fuck on? He had embarrassed himself enough and HE WAS BEING SO LUNATIC LIKE LOOK HOW UGLY AND STUPID HE WENT AND WAS 🖤😂🤡✨
LOAD OF PLOT TWIST HAD ME KEPT GOING ON READING ALL OVER AGAIN, in the train, at home, literally everywhere?!?? 🥺✨💜🦄🌹👀
Emily made me fall in life with baking, and craving with everything that has to do with raspberry in it, and already next week? I would love to make a cheesecake with raspberry to lunch and I can’t wait to make it happen 💜🌹🩷🧁
The ending was so cute, lovely and so brutally beautiful as it is, this is so satisfying ending, it was from the surprise of Emily got a bakery shop by Beckett and Liam, and Beckett was in a football match and even won but on top of that he was surprised to become a dad for the second time?!? I WAS SCREAMING IN THE INSIDE WHEN THAT HAPPEN LIKE AHHHHHH🦄✨🩷💜🧁🦄🦋✨🥺🫠
I love this book especially it has football vibe in it 🥅✨
I still have load of things to say about this book and I would like to say 10 million stars out of 5✨🌹🩷🧁👀🧁🩷💜💜💜💜🌹👀👀🧁👀🩷🩷✨✨✨🦄🦋
This is how much I love this book🩷💜🧁🌹✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2025
Anteros’ Return
I would win Emily Ryton back. No matter what, she belonged with me just as I did her.🥺
Beck and Emily were high school sweethearts and circumstances caused them to part ways.”Ugh basically a slimy sleaze ball”caused them to breakup🙄.This is a second chance sports romance with miscommunication and secret baby. There’s heartbreak forgiveness/understanding and healing,and let’s just say if you adore praise and my favorite “Good Girl”🥵 Beckett Ashmore embodies if he wanted too he would and that man didn’t play when it came to what he wanted and missed out on. I enjoyed this story so much. Emily is a single mom who’s been through heartbreak and for the past 7 years she’s raised her son and is a baker with dreams of owning her own shop one day. Beckett plays pro football “soccer” and returns home due to an injury.He runs into his ex Emily whom he’s always loved and never stopped loving her. Emily is very protective of her heart and doesn’t trust beck. She’s guarded her heart for the past 7 years and thinks he abandoned her and their son. Beck and Emily’s story was beautifully written. I loved the flashbacks that were throughout the story that gave you bits and pieces of the past.
As the story progresses you find out why they broke up and beck does not shy away from doing whatever it takes to get his family back.🌻
My heart melted for Little Liam he was a sassy kid towards Beck but as the story goes on you find out why and he’s too cute and underneath that sassy mouth of his he’s the sweetest little boy with a big heart. 🥺😭
Thank you Sam for letting me be apart of your street/arc team and for sharing Beck & Emily’s story was everything and more.🥺😭🥰
〰️Release Date〰️
5/31/25
〰️Rating〰️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
〰️Spice〰️
🌶️🌶️.5/5
〰️Tropes〰️
⚽️Sports Romance
💙Second Chance
⚽️Secret Baby
💙Brother's Best Friend
⚽️Single Mum
💙Miscommunication
⚽️Sassy Kid
〰️Favorite Quotes〰️
“Relax, baby, I’m going to take my time with you.
I’ll be as gentle as you want me to be.”- Beck
I will fight for you over and over, until my dying breath, if that’s what it takes.”-Beck
I knew no matter how many years would pass, she would always captivate my heart. I’d always be hers.-Beck
Thank you Sam for letting me be apart of your street/arc team and for sharing Beck & Emily’s story was everything and more.🥺😭🥰
〰️Release Date〰️
5/31/25
〰️Rating〰️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
〰️Spice〰️
🌶️🌶️.5/5
〰️Tropes〰️
⚽️Sports Romance
💙Second Chance
⚽️Secret Baby
💙Brother's Best Friend
⚽️Single Mum
💙Miscommunication
⚽️Sassy Kid
〰️Favorite Quotes〰️
“Relax, baby, I’m going to take my time with you.
I’ll be as gentle as you want me to be.”- Beck
I will fight for you over and over, until my dying breath, if that’s what it takes.”-Beck
I knew no matter how many years would pass, she would always captivate my heart. I’d always be hers.-Beck
May 29, 2025
Let me start by saying from the first page of Anteros’ Return grabbed my heart and it didn’t let go. This is a second chance romance, but it was more than that. It’s a story about heartbreak, emotional, healing, love, growth, forgiveness, raw and real, heartfelt surprises, and an absolutely beautiful love story.
This book made me feel all the emotions. From anger, to sadness, to happiness. Their love gave me butterflies. Their chemistry was INCREDIBLE! ADDICTING! It was so emotional, tender, and just a magnetic force of love and connection that was burning through the pages❤️🔥
Emily and Beckett they were endgame
Book tropes:
✨ Second chance
✨ Football (UK)
✨ Secret baby
✨Brother’s best friend
✨Single Mum
✨HEA
“His touch ignited a fire within me, one that burned brighter than the sun. And in that perfect moment, all I could do was melt into his embrace, knowing that our love would last forever.”
Emily’s story is full of strength and inspiration. She fell in love with her brother’s best friend and is a very talented baker. She loved Beckett from the very first glance at him, and that magnetic force was there all along. It was meant to be.
She got pregnant and he didn’t want anything to do with her or the baby. At least she thought, when her and Beckett’s friend lied to the both of them. She was left with nothing but pain and heartbreak along with raising her son Liam alone. 9 years later Beckett comes back home.
Beckett returns back home after an injury on the football field. He as well has been holding on to heartbreak. He believes she’s happy without him, moved on, living her best life. But he has no idea about his son. He doesn’t know their friend lied to them, hiding the truth for so long, all the lies and the years stolen from them because of a friend that turned his back on them and turned into a snake. The truth came undone, and the shock and rage was intense.
“Emily Ryton. My first kiss. My first love. My first everything. Nobody, and I repeat nobody, would ever come close to her. She was my be all and end all.”
Liam is such a sweet kid, he was such a joy, and his attitude and personality was just like Beckett’s. I loved seeing their bond grow just melted me.
Such a pure heartfelt story, and Beckett’s gestures to Emily proving his love and that he wasn’t going anywhere made me swoon. Especially that necklace he gave to her years ago and wore it all the time. That has to be my most favorite part in the book, along with another surprise that I will keep hush hush 🤫
You just need to read it 😉 RUN DONT WALK 🏃♀️
6 ⭐️
November 13, 2025
Seven years of dealing with broken hearts, broken promises, misunderstandings, and lots of tears.
When footballer Beckett Ashmore left for Spain after school to begin his big football career, the last thing he thought was that he wouldn't hear from his girlfriend ever again. She wouldn't return his calls and completely ghosted him. There was no explanation; it was just over. Seven years later, after he was seriously injured in a game, he went back home to stay with his parents to heal. Now, he wanted answers, because not a day had gone by that he hadn't thought about her and why she had left him.
Seven long years, and now Emily's ex was back in town. Why did he have to come back? She's tried so hard to forget about him and what he did, or didn't do, which was be there for her and their son. He wanted nothing to do with either of them, and he crushed her heart in a million pieces. She would like to say she was over him. It's been so long now. Their son was doing well without a father, and she was doing ok too. She didn't need a man in her life; Liam was her number one priority. Her brother keeps trying to fix her up with his friend Mike, whom she has known since they were kids, but she isn't interested in him or any other man. The one man she wanted hurt her, and she had zero interest in getting hurt again.
An unexpected meeting between Beckett and Emily happened when Beckett went to the home of Liam, a boy who, for some reason, hated his guts and was benched for being rude to him at practice, where Beckett was helping an old friend coach. When he looked into Liam's face and saw when his birthday was, did the math, and noticed their similar traits, Beckett realized that Liam was his son. How did no one tell him he had a son? For seven years! He was getting to the bottom of it, and he wanted to get to know this angry boy who took to the game just as his father had. The father Liam didn't think he had because he was told that his father didn't want him.
This is a slow-burn romance that flashes back to when they first met, up until he left for Spain, and what led to their breakup. It's messy, sad, and frustrating. When things start to progress, it takes a step back. It's hard to get over 7 years of hurt, but they have to work it out.
Really great duel narration on this book. I enjoyed the story and how it all unfolded. There is an HEA with no cliffhanger.
Thanks to Bluenose Audio for the ALC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review before the book's release.
When footballer Beckett Ashmore left for Spain after school to begin his big football career, the last thing he thought was that he wouldn't hear from his girlfriend ever again. She wouldn't return his calls and completely ghosted him. There was no explanation; it was just over. Seven years later, after he was seriously injured in a game, he went back home to stay with his parents to heal. Now, he wanted answers, because not a day had gone by that he hadn't thought about her and why she had left him.
Seven long years, and now Emily's ex was back in town. Why did he have to come back? She's tried so hard to forget about him and what he did, or didn't do, which was be there for her and their son. He wanted nothing to do with either of them, and he crushed her heart in a million pieces. She would like to say she was over him. It's been so long now. Their son was doing well without a father, and she was doing ok too. She didn't need a man in her life; Liam was her number one priority. Her brother keeps trying to fix her up with his friend Mike, whom she has known since they were kids, but she isn't interested in him or any other man. The one man she wanted hurt her, and she had zero interest in getting hurt again.
An unexpected meeting between Beckett and Emily happened when Beckett went to the home of Liam, a boy who, for some reason, hated his guts and was benched for being rude to him at practice, where Beckett was helping an old friend coach. When he looked into Liam's face and saw when his birthday was, did the math, and noticed their similar traits, Beckett realized that Liam was his son. How did no one tell him he had a son? For seven years! He was getting to the bottom of it, and he wanted to get to know this angry boy who took to the game just as his father had. The father Liam didn't think he had because he was told that his father didn't want him.
This is a slow-burn romance that flashes back to when they first met, up until he left for Spain, and what led to their breakup. It's messy, sad, and frustrating. When things start to progress, it takes a step back. It's hard to get over 7 years of hurt, but they have to work it out.
Really great duel narration on this book. I enjoyed the story and how it all unfolded. There is an HEA with no cliffhanger.
Thanks to Bluenose Audio for the ALC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review before the book's release.
November 17, 2025
I received this ALC from Blue Nose Audio and I want to thank them for it. This was my first Samantha Jayne book/audiobook, and I was impressed. I loved her pacing, her character’s and her writing style. I’m totally going to be reading more from her. And the narrators in this book were chef’s kiss. This audio is performed in duet by Kiri Savage and Sean Masters.
This book follows Beckett Ashmore (Beck) who is a famous “footballer” (soccer player) and in the opening of the book, gets injured during play. He has to recover and what better place to recover, his hometown – but he knows his arrival home won’t be all cheers and happiness… not with the way that he left seven years ago.
Then enters Emily Ryton (Em), who was the love of Beck’s life and also the little sister of Beck’s best friend, Harry. Nothing like a good brother’s best friend trope 😊 Now, Em is a single mom whose heart and world belong to her son, Liam. She went through heartbreak, betrayal with Beck and certainly isn’t thrilled to have him back in hometown either.
It’s been seven years since he left, carrying heartbreak and regret. Seven long years of avoiding the place that reminded him of her - of what he lost. He thinks she’s happy without him or at least that’s what he was told. He believes she’s moved on. But he has no idea about the son waiting to meet him or the truth that’s been kept from them. She believes he wanted nothing to do with her or the baby she was pregnant with when he left, but neither of them knows the full truth about the lies that kept them apart and the years stolen from them.
The chemistry between Beck and Em was perfect and I loved seeing them fight for each other, I just wish they’d done it sooner in the book. The spice was perfect, just the right amount and really fit the story so well. I love all of the intricate details of things that just seem to make their relationship even more sweet… The nicknames, the meaning behind them, the cupcakes and the tattoo and 'BEE', iykyk…
This was such a great audiobook, very well narrated and I honestly couldn't imagine any other narrators other than Sean Masters and Kiri Savage. Their accents and their chemistry as narrators were perfect. You cannot go wrong with picking up this book, but you will be very happy if you pick up the audiobook.
If you like any of the following, this book is for you:
🧁Sports romance
🧁Second chance
🧁Secret pregnancy
🧁Single mom
🧁Brother's best friend
🧁Sassy kid
🧁Miscommunication
🧁Slow burn
🧁Dual POV
Rate: 3/5⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 2.5/5🌶️🌶️.5
Narration Rate: 4.5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Anteros' Return
Samantha Jayne
This book follows Beckett Ashmore (Beck) who is a famous “footballer” (soccer player) and in the opening of the book, gets injured during play. He has to recover and what better place to recover, his hometown – but he knows his arrival home won’t be all cheers and happiness… not with the way that he left seven years ago.
Then enters Emily Ryton (Em), who was the love of Beck’s life and also the little sister of Beck’s best friend, Harry. Nothing like a good brother’s best friend trope 😊 Now, Em is a single mom whose heart and world belong to her son, Liam. She went through heartbreak, betrayal with Beck and certainly isn’t thrilled to have him back in hometown either.
It’s been seven years since he left, carrying heartbreak and regret. Seven long years of avoiding the place that reminded him of her - of what he lost. He thinks she’s happy without him or at least that’s what he was told. He believes she’s moved on. But he has no idea about the son waiting to meet him or the truth that’s been kept from them. She believes he wanted nothing to do with her or the baby she was pregnant with when he left, but neither of them knows the full truth about the lies that kept them apart and the years stolen from them.
The chemistry between Beck and Em was perfect and I loved seeing them fight for each other, I just wish they’d done it sooner in the book. The spice was perfect, just the right amount and really fit the story so well. I love all of the intricate details of things that just seem to make their relationship even more sweet… The nicknames, the meaning behind them, the cupcakes and the tattoo and 'BEE', iykyk…
This was such a great audiobook, very well narrated and I honestly couldn't imagine any other narrators other than Sean Masters and Kiri Savage. Their accents and their chemistry as narrators were perfect. You cannot go wrong with picking up this book, but you will be very happy if you pick up the audiobook.
If you like any of the following, this book is for you:
🧁Sports romance
🧁Second chance
🧁Secret pregnancy
🧁Single mom
🧁Brother's best friend
🧁Sassy kid
🧁Miscommunication
🧁Slow burn
🧁Dual POV
Rate: 3/5⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 2.5/5🌶️🌶️.5
Narration Rate: 4.5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Anteros' Return
Samantha Jayne
November 17, 2025
Anteros’ Return is a heart-tugging second chance romance packed with raw emotion, lingering secrets, and undeniable chemistry. Expect to be swept into a story of redemption, love, and the fierce fight for family.
🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW ALC🎧
ANTERO’S RETURN (Zulu’s U Prequel
Author: Samantha Jayne
Performed in Duet by :
Sean Masters & kiri Savage
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat:🌶🌶🌶🌶
Narration:🎧🎤📖
“I have loved you from the day I met you. I loved you then, I love you now, and I will love you until my dying breath.” 💔
That line right there? It sums up everything I felt while listening to this story.
Hence my reasoning for doing this review a little differently,
I was literally engaged and fully submerged into this book and they way it was narrated!
Anteros’ Return is a beautifully emotional, second-chance romance that had me hooked from start to finish. Emily’s strength as a single mom, her quiet heartbreak, and the way she holds it all together for her son made me love her immediately. Beckett’s return brings all the old wounds and unspoken truths to the surface — and the result is tender, painful, and deeply satisfying as he too fought for what was lost.
The chemistry between Emily and Beckett is undeniable, but what really got me was their emotional history. You can feel every ounce of love and regret between them. The audiobook narration added so much intensity — every sigh, every pause, every whispered word hit just right with Sean Masters and Kiri Savage in your ear- its a win! 🎧
Jesus. These two were utter perfection.
ℱ𝒶𝓋ℴ𝓇𝒾𝓉ℯ 𝒬𝓊ℴ𝓉ℯ𝓈 💭
I will fight for you over and over, until my dying breath, if that’s what it takes.”-Beck
I would win Emily Ryton back. No matter what, she belonged with me just as I did her
“Emily Ryton. My first kiss. My first love. My first everything. Nobody, and I repeat nobody, would ever come close to her. She was my be all and end all.”
Do I recommend?… Yes… Yes I wholeheartedly do!
𝒱𝒾𝒷ℯ𝓈 𝒾 𝓁ℴ𝓋ℯ𝒹.
🍰Second chance romance
👶 Secret baby
🦋single mom
🧁Brother’s best friend
⚽️Former athlete
🏘small-town return
🦋Emotional sweet slow burn
🍪Found family & healing love
🎤Duet narration to love!
🩵Hard fought for HEA
If you love stories about forgiveness, family, Second chances and love that stands the test of time, Anteros’ Return will melt you in the best way.
A shout out to BNA and thanks to you for reading my review and rambling, until next time.
One Love💕One Book at a time
🦋~𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈~🦋
🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW ALC🎧
ANTERO’S RETURN (Zulu’s U Prequel
Author: Samantha Jayne
Performed in Duet by :
Sean Masters & kiri Savage
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat:🌶🌶🌶🌶
Narration:🎧🎤📖
“I have loved you from the day I met you. I loved you then, I love you now, and I will love you until my dying breath.” 💔
That line right there? It sums up everything I felt while listening to this story.
Hence my reasoning for doing this review a little differently,
I was literally engaged and fully submerged into this book and they way it was narrated!
Anteros’ Return is a beautifully emotional, second-chance romance that had me hooked from start to finish. Emily’s strength as a single mom, her quiet heartbreak, and the way she holds it all together for her son made me love her immediately. Beckett’s return brings all the old wounds and unspoken truths to the surface — and the result is tender, painful, and deeply satisfying as he too fought for what was lost.
The chemistry between Emily and Beckett is undeniable, but what really got me was their emotional history. You can feel every ounce of love and regret between them. The audiobook narration added so much intensity — every sigh, every pause, every whispered word hit just right with Sean Masters and Kiri Savage in your ear- its a win! 🎧
Jesus. These two were utter perfection.
ℱ𝒶𝓋ℴ𝓇𝒾𝓉ℯ 𝒬𝓊ℴ𝓉ℯ𝓈 💭
I will fight for you over and over, until my dying breath, if that’s what it takes.”-Beck
I would win Emily Ryton back. No matter what, she belonged with me just as I did her
“Emily Ryton. My first kiss. My first love. My first everything. Nobody, and I repeat nobody, would ever come close to her. She was my be all and end all.”
Do I recommend?… Yes… Yes I wholeheartedly do!
𝒱𝒾𝒷ℯ𝓈 𝒾 𝓁ℴ𝓋ℯ𝒹.
🍰Second chance romance
👶 Secret baby
🦋single mom
🧁Brother’s best friend
⚽️Former athlete
🏘small-town return
🦋Emotional sweet slow burn
🍪Found family & healing love
🎤Duet narration to love!
🩵Hard fought for HEA
If you love stories about forgiveness, family, Second chances and love that stands the test of time, Anteros’ Return will melt you in the best way.
A shout out to BNA and thanks to you for reading my review and rambling, until next time.
One Love💕One Book at a time
🦋~𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈~🦋
November 18, 2025
🎧⭐️ALC Review⭐️🎧
Overall Thoughts: This was a very sweet, and heartwarming story and something I definitely needed after listening to so many darker books recently. While there is some heartbreak, the hope the blossoms throughout the book is great and heartfelt. This was a nice introduction to Samantha and her writing, and who doesn’t love an MMC with an accent. This was also my first book narrated by Kiri, and if you know me, I have a hard time with fem narrators with native accents…don’t know why, I just do, but I like Kiri and the way her voice fit the FMC. I’ve also listened to a lot…a lot a lot, of Sean recently and I’m not mad about it, but him using an accent helped me to differentiate between his characters and the books. If you are looking for a wholesome book this is one to listen to. The only issue I had was the time jumps since there were multiples in the chapters as opposed to separate chapters for the flashbacks.
Narration: Duet narration, first-person present tense, multiple-POV with many flashbacks
Tropes: Football (soccer), single mom, high school sweethearts, second chance, cute and spunky kid, betrayal, miscommunication, manipulation (outside the main characters), big gestures, he fights to win her back, best friend’s sister, he’s injured, he coaches her (their) son
Overall: 4 ❤️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Humor: 2 😂
Drama: 2 🎭
Darkness: 2 🖤
Narration: 4.5 🎧
Emily is doing just fine. She has her family and her son, and the house she always dreamed of, but it has been nearly nine years since the man she loved left for bigger things and never looked back, even when he found out she was pregnant with his child.
Beckett suffered what could be a season-ending injury and was instructed to rest, so he decides to spend his recovery time back home with his family, in the hometown, where the girl he has always loved still lives.
When they come face to face again, emotions run high, and their connection is still electric with a love that never died for either of them. When they find out about the betrayal and the truth of what happened all those years ago, will they be able to put the hurt and guilt aside to get the second chance they both desperately want?
Overall Thoughts: This was a very sweet, and heartwarming story and something I definitely needed after listening to so many darker books recently. While there is some heartbreak, the hope the blossoms throughout the book is great and heartfelt. This was a nice introduction to Samantha and her writing, and who doesn’t love an MMC with an accent. This was also my first book narrated by Kiri, and if you know me, I have a hard time with fem narrators with native accents…don’t know why, I just do, but I like Kiri and the way her voice fit the FMC. I’ve also listened to a lot…a lot a lot, of Sean recently and I’m not mad about it, but him using an accent helped me to differentiate between his characters and the books. If you are looking for a wholesome book this is one to listen to. The only issue I had was the time jumps since there were multiples in the chapters as opposed to separate chapters for the flashbacks.
Narration: Duet narration, first-person present tense, multiple-POV with many flashbacks
Tropes: Football (soccer), single mom, high school sweethearts, second chance, cute and spunky kid, betrayal, miscommunication, manipulation (outside the main characters), big gestures, he fights to win her back, best friend’s sister, he’s injured, he coaches her (their) son
Overall: 4 ❤️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Humor: 2 😂
Drama: 2 🎭
Darkness: 2 🖤
Narration: 4.5 🎧
Emily is doing just fine. She has her family and her son, and the house she always dreamed of, but it has been nearly nine years since the man she loved left for bigger things and never looked back, even when he found out she was pregnant with his child.
Beckett suffered what could be a season-ending injury and was instructed to rest, so he decides to spend his recovery time back home with his family, in the hometown, where the girl he has always loved still lives.
When they come face to face again, emotions run high, and their connection is still electric with a love that never died for either of them. When they find out about the betrayal and the truth of what happened all those years ago, will they be able to put the hurt and guilt aside to get the second chance they both desperately want?
May 28, 2025
ARC REVIEW! 🧁💙
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This is the best and cutest book I have ever read! Beckett is the guy I’ve felt so sorry for cause of his injury and poor thing had no idea what was going on 🥺! I wanted to cry with him. Trust me when I say it but this book is not predictable as you think! From start to beginning! Liam is the best written character based on his development……THESE SCENE OF BECKETT & LIAM is worth it! I was about to cry when there was a good football scenes of them….how Beckett has always been there for Liam but never forget about his love life. These flashbacks, how they used to be together, how they suddenly split with full miscommunication! Trust me…….Sassy Kid, Sports Romance, he calls her cupcake is the best combo!!!😭💙🫶🏾 Em surprised me alot when she was about to let him in more which I adore! These spice is so sweet and also spicing……this book is perfect for those who is not to spice but for the plot. Trust me! 🫶🏾🌸
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These plot twist is not so major but still you will be in shock! ❤️🌻
•
Such a sweet, warming romance and it’s not slow burn but at the same time it took time for Emily to accept the fact life is not perfect 💙🫶🏾
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The spice is like I said sweet, amazing, something to enjoy and plus it’s not predictable which it’s win win 🤭🌸!!
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I will remember this book forever cause it will always be in my heart, perfect book if you want to take a break from Dark Romance as Football romance is becoming my fave genre cause HELLO ITS FOOTBALL WE ARE TALKING ABOUT!!!! I’ve never been that proud of Beckett and how he got his way back to Emily! And Omg her baking is delicious with cupcake, cake…..makes me want to eat her desserts! 🍪
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Samantha! You are the most amazing author ever, never give up! You are the best to write the best MMC’S. I can’t wait for your next books to come! Give Anteros Return a try, you will surely love it as much as I do 🫶🏾💙
Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ + ❤️
•
This is the best and cutest book I have ever read! Beckett is the guy I’ve felt so sorry for cause of his injury and poor thing had no idea what was going on 🥺! I wanted to cry with him. Trust me when I say it but this book is not predictable as you think! From start to beginning! Liam is the best written character based on his development……THESE SCENE OF BECKETT & LIAM is worth it! I was about to cry when there was a good football scenes of them….how Beckett has always been there for Liam but never forget about his love life. These flashbacks, how they used to be together, how they suddenly split with full miscommunication! Trust me…….Sassy Kid, Sports Romance, he calls her cupcake is the best combo!!!😭💙🫶🏾 Em surprised me alot when she was about to let him in more which I adore! These spice is so sweet and also spicing……this book is perfect for those who is not to spice but for the plot. Trust me! 🫶🏾🌸
•
These plot twist is not so major but still you will be in shock! ❤️🌻
•
Such a sweet, warming romance and it’s not slow burn but at the same time it took time for Emily to accept the fact life is not perfect 💙🫶🏾
•
The spice is like I said sweet, amazing, something to enjoy and plus it’s not predictable which it’s win win 🤭🌸!!
•
I will remember this book forever cause it will always be in my heart, perfect book if you want to take a break from Dark Romance as Football romance is becoming my fave genre cause HELLO ITS FOOTBALL WE ARE TALKING ABOUT!!!! I’ve never been that proud of Beckett and how he got his way back to Emily! And Omg her baking is delicious with cupcake, cake…..makes me want to eat her desserts! 🍪
•
Samantha! You are the most amazing author ever, never give up! You are the best to write the best MMC’S. I can’t wait for your next books to come! Give Anteros Return a try, you will surely love it as much as I do 🫶🏾💙
Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ + ❤️
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