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Facing Off
NHL’s hottest, cocky captain. The ballerina who hates hockey players.
One month to land her biggest audition…if she doesn't strangle him first.
My brother’s captain is a disaster with abs you could cut diamonds on, and a smirk that makes me want to punch him.
And somehow, he’s the only one who can save my ballet career when I keep falling on stage. Suddenly NHL’s biggest playboy is my trainer, cheerleader, and human safety net.
He cooks. Motivates. Checks me for concussions.
Takes me to a rage room when I need to break something.
Holds me when I panic.
Every smug smile and soft touch chips away at my walls—and I hate how much I notice.
Adrian Hughes is a flirt I shouldn’t trust…yet the way he looks at me might make this grumpy black cat ballerina break ever rule she's ever had.
One month to land her biggest audition…if she doesn't strangle him first.
My brother’s captain is a disaster with abs you could cut diamonds on, and a smirk that makes me want to punch him.
And somehow, he’s the only one who can save my ballet career when I keep falling on stage. Suddenly NHL’s biggest playboy is my trainer, cheerleader, and human safety net.
He cooks. Motivates. Checks me for concussions.
Takes me to a rage room when I need to break something.
Holds me when I panic.
Every smug smile and soft touch chips away at my walls—and I hate how much I notice.
Adrian Hughes is a flirt I shouldn’t trust…yet the way he looks at me might make this grumpy black cat ballerina break ever rule she's ever had.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
219 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
November 5, 2025
4.5🌟, 3 🌶️
It you love a grumpy ballerina and a sunshine hockey captain, this one's going straight to your favorites list.
Facing Off is a heartfelt, slow-burn sports romance that had me charmed from the first page. Adrian and Sonya's chemistry is undeniable-he falls first and hard, while she fights every flutter until she can't anymore. Their connection feels raw and deeply emotional, full of tension, humor, and those small moments that make you ache in the best way.
Both MCs are complex and beautifully written. Sonya's guarded heart and Adrian's quiet patience make their journey feel authentic and moving. I loved how their struggles and growth were handled-the mental health representation was thoughtful and real.
Adrian's steady devotion and care had me melting; he's the kind of hero who doesn't just love, he shows it in every action.
This book had everything I love in a romance-banter, spice, laughter, and heart-tugging vulnerability. The slow burn pays off perfectly, and the emotional depth lingers long after the last page.
This story captures what it truly means to be seen, loved, and accepted for every imperfect piece of yourself.
~~~~
Grateful to Sookh Kaur for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
It you love a grumpy ballerina and a sunshine hockey captain, this one's going straight to your favorites list.
Facing Off is a heartfelt, slow-burn sports romance that had me charmed from the first page. Adrian and Sonya's chemistry is undeniable-he falls first and hard, while she fights every flutter until she can't anymore. Their connection feels raw and deeply emotional, full of tension, humor, and those small moments that make you ache in the best way.
Both MCs are complex and beautifully written. Sonya's guarded heart and Adrian's quiet patience make their journey feel authentic and moving. I loved how their struggles and growth were handled-the mental health representation was thoughtful and real.
Adrian's steady devotion and care had me melting; he's the kind of hero who doesn't just love, he shows it in every action.
This book had everything I love in a romance-banter, spice, laughter, and heart-tugging vulnerability. The slow burn pays off perfectly, and the emotional depth lingers long after the last page.
This story captures what it truly means to be seen, loved, and accepted for every imperfect piece of yourself.
~~~~
Grateful to Sookh Kaur for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
November 10, 2025
This book is a journey. Buckle up and hold on tight. It’s angsty, full of character growth and so many small moments… and it hurts for a minute. Our MMC is so in love with her and she is struggling so much with her heavy baggage that it made my heart hurt for him. And then just when you think the author has pushed it too far, she makes it absolute perfection.
Adrian is the captain of his NHL team when he meets the sister of his teammate and becomes inexplicably drawn to her. Sonya is a ballerina, with serious goals, and has no time or energy for his brash arrogance and playboy image.
This is the story of them finding each other as they each come to terms with their own trauma and struggles.
Adrian believes they’re soul mates and who am I to disagree.
❤️ No third act breakup
🐈⬛🐕The ultimate black cat heroine and golden retriever H
😊Devoted MMC/he falls first and hard. He will do anything for her. It’s not insta but it’s quick and then intense.
🩰🏒Highly skilled ballerina and professional hockey player
🩵Reformed playboy; MMC is celibate long before he ever stands a chance w her. He just doesn’t want anyone else
🖤FMC - dealing w trauma related to emotional neglect and abandonment issues stemming from time in foster care. She is also struggling w the yips right before she has a big audition.
🖤MMC - dealing w trauma related to guilt associated with the death of his best friend. Adrian is also feeling the pressure of being team captain when several players are at risk of being traded.
🗣️Communication - Sonya is so protective of her heart that her walls are sky high and fairly impenetrable for the first half of the book. She is mean to Adrian when he doesn’t deserve it. We see her inner thoughts and understand why, but it takes until about 60% before they start to come down. He also hides behind his arrogant and cocky playboy facade for a while and it’s easy to understand why she doesn’t trust him. All of this is necessary tho and makes the last 40% absolute believable perfection.
🌶️Spice - This is a slow burn w lots of chemistry. Again, she gives him nothing for a long time - we know she’s into him and wants him but she won’t give in - but when she gives in, she gives in. Lol.
🏠 Found family - the players, his family, her brother Quinn… they all provide an amazing support system and backdrop. LGBTQ+ rep w inclusion of Adrian’s nibling. :)
🫣No OM/OW. We know he’s a player and we see women hit on him once or twice but he has no interest. He only sees and wants her. There’s a minute in the very beginning where he’s trying to test his infatuation by taking other women on dates, but nothing happens and it’s all safe. Sonya is not a virgin.
👥Dual POV; HEA; two epilogues - 5 months later and 2 yr later. Engagement.
It’s rare that an author does such a good job of making readers understand and like characters who seem so difficult and/or shallow in the beginning. Adrian is annoyingly smug and a playboy. It seems that he’s trying to get Sonya’s attention simply because she won’t give it to him. Sonya is equally off-putting in the opposite way. She speaks in grunts and expresses herself with glares and insults. We seem them slowly earn each others trust over the course of two years.
There is a pivotal moment when Sonya calls Adrian for help when she’s concussed after falling while dancing and that is the first and an important point of change. He takes genuine care of her, bringing her to his apt and watching over her. We see her start to understand the depth of this man and we see her little by little trust him. He supports her through everything and she sees his struggles as well - The little bounce in his knee when he’s stressed, the tension in his hands… she sees it and she worries for him. It’s so beautifully done.
What starts out as seemingly very one-sided ends up being a very balanced love story. They are each equally devoted and protective of the other. I hope you enjoy!
——————————————————————————
Favorite bits just for me : ‼️‼️ (in no order)
- The rage room
- when she notices him on the bench after a game and he looks so sad; the way she ‘sees’ him
- When he says he’s her husband at the hospital to get in to see her and later for her dance gala; he loves calling her wifey and Mrs Hughes
- When she flies w him to Oslo and holds his hand while he’s watching the game
- how he gets his team of experts to help her w the yips and they all have matching t shirts
- how he bakes cookies for her
- when she invites him to her place and he falls asleep and she runs her hand thru his hair. How she shares her feelings w his cat and he hears her
- When she goes w him to the benefit for his friend in his hometown and then stays and has dinner w his family. When she dances w his nibling and has fun
- the hidden smiles and heart hands
- when she calls him “baby” and he swoons
- how he cant help calling her “my darling”
- when he kneels in front her at the club
- when he turns his weight room into a dance studio and the way he’s so worried that it’s too much and then she loses it and dances for him
- omg there so sooo many!!
Adrian is the captain of his NHL team when he meets the sister of his teammate and becomes inexplicably drawn to her. Sonya is a ballerina, with serious goals, and has no time or energy for his brash arrogance and playboy image.
This is the story of them finding each other as they each come to terms with their own trauma and struggles.
Adrian believes they’re soul mates and who am I to disagree.
❤️ No third act breakup
🐈⬛🐕The ultimate black cat heroine and golden retriever H
😊Devoted MMC/he falls first and hard. He will do anything for her. It’s not insta but it’s quick and then intense.
🩰🏒Highly skilled ballerina and professional hockey player
🩵Reformed playboy; MMC is celibate long before he ever stands a chance w her. He just doesn’t want anyone else
🖤FMC - dealing w trauma related to emotional neglect and abandonment issues stemming from time in foster care. She is also struggling w the yips right before she has a big audition.
🖤MMC - dealing w trauma related to guilt associated with the death of his best friend. Adrian is also feeling the pressure of being team captain when several players are at risk of being traded.
🗣️Communication - Sonya is so protective of her heart that her walls are sky high and fairly impenetrable for the first half of the book. She is mean to Adrian when he doesn’t deserve it. We see her inner thoughts and understand why, but it takes until about 60% before they start to come down. He also hides behind his arrogant and cocky playboy facade for a while and it’s easy to understand why she doesn’t trust him. All of this is necessary tho and makes the last 40% absolute believable perfection.
🌶️Spice - This is a slow burn w lots of chemistry. Again, she gives him nothing for a long time - we know she’s into him and wants him but she won’t give in - but when she gives in, she gives in. Lol.
🏠 Found family - the players, his family, her brother Quinn… they all provide an amazing support system and backdrop. LGBTQ+ rep w inclusion of Adrian’s nibling. :)
🫣No OM/OW. We know he’s a player and we see women hit on him once or twice but he has no interest. He only sees and wants her. There’s a minute in the very beginning where he’s trying to test his infatuation by taking other women on dates, but nothing happens and it’s all safe. Sonya is not a virgin.
👥Dual POV; HEA; two epilogues - 5 months later and 2 yr later. Engagement.
It’s rare that an author does such a good job of making readers understand and like characters who seem so difficult and/or shallow in the beginning. Adrian is annoyingly smug and a playboy. It seems that he’s trying to get Sonya’s attention simply because she won’t give it to him. Sonya is equally off-putting in the opposite way. She speaks in grunts and expresses herself with glares and insults. We seem them slowly earn each others trust over the course of two years.
There is a pivotal moment when Sonya calls Adrian for help when she’s concussed after falling while dancing and that is the first and an important point of change. He takes genuine care of her, bringing her to his apt and watching over her. We see her start to understand the depth of this man and we see her little by little trust him. He supports her through everything and she sees his struggles as well - The little bounce in his knee when he’s stressed, the tension in his hands… she sees it and she worries for him. It’s so beautifully done.
What starts out as seemingly very one-sided ends up being a very balanced love story. They are each equally devoted and protective of the other. I hope you enjoy!
——————————————————————————
Favorite bits just for me : ‼️‼️ (in no order)
- The rage room
- when she notices him on the bench after a game and he looks so sad; the way she ‘sees’ him
- When he says he’s her husband at the hospital to get in to see her and later for her dance gala; he loves calling her wifey and Mrs Hughes
- When she flies w him to Oslo and holds his hand while he’s watching the game
- how he gets his team of experts to help her w the yips and they all have matching t shirts
- how he bakes cookies for her
- when she invites him to her place and he falls asleep and she runs her hand thru his hair. How she shares her feelings w his cat and he hears her
- When she goes w him to the benefit for his friend in his hometown and then stays and has dinner w his family. When she dances w his nibling and has fun
- the hidden smiles and heart hands
- when she calls him “baby” and he swoons
- how he cant help calling her “my darling”
- when he kneels in front her at the club
- when he turns his weight room into a dance studio and the way he’s so worried that it’s too much and then she loses it and dances for him
- omg there so sooo many!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 6, 2025please stop saying things are slow burn when they're into each other LITERALLY from page one! thanks! :D
November 5, 2025
ARC review ✨
I was thrilled to receive a copy of this book before release. I’m not familiar with this author, so I can’t speak for her other work, but my excitement very quickly fizzled into disappointment. This was a hard read and I eventually DNF’d at 41%. In the end, my main takeaway is that a lot of the dialogue feels pointless. Interactions between characters that aren’t the FMC and MMC feel like they could be scrapped entirely. On top of this, the writing style is full of sentence fragments, which makes it hard to follow. There are periods where there should be commas and I wish the author would expand into longer, more descriptive sentences. Personally, I feel that she could benefit greatly from a new editor.
While I love the trope of a black cat and golden retriever, it falls flat here. Adrian’s endless optimism feels like naïveté and near idiocy rather than good spirits. He’s like a fortune cookie, always chirping absolute positive nonsense. His hyperfixation on Sonya is confusing rather than endearing - why is he so desperate to have her? It’s not because she’s not attainable and he likes the chase, as implied. He’s desperate to take care of her and win her over, but there’s no build up to him feeling this way at all - right out of the gate, he MUST have her and can see no other woman. While I love “darling” as a pet name, it feels like it’s every other word out of his mouth and quickly becomes annoying.
Similarly, Sonya is also drawn to Adrian - but she completely shuts down her feelings, refuses to smile or laugh, and is robotic. Her internal monologue is the same as her external showing - there’s not much conflict in regard to her feelings. One could say this is simply the fact that she’s an unreliable narrator, but it seems to go beyond that. I found nothing to attach myself to with her.
I did not go into this book knowing that it was a sequel, so I missed out on learning about the other characters. Not all books should be the same, but I did feel confused and left out by all of the characters that were introduced prior to this book. In most books, characters are reintroduced - especially when there’s a POV change, if only to get a grasp on the character’s feelings for another. Here, there was very little of that. We really only get to know Sonya and Adrian - and, at 41%, I knew very little about them.
I think this author has something special, but really needs a better editor to help her clean up the storytelling and help to smooth out the writing style. I wish her the very best of luck, and while I didn’t personally enjoy this book, I’m so happy to see that others did! Not every book is for every person. Thank you very much to Sookh for the ARC!
I was thrilled to receive a copy of this book before release. I’m not familiar with this author, so I can’t speak for her other work, but my excitement very quickly fizzled into disappointment. This was a hard read and I eventually DNF’d at 41%. In the end, my main takeaway is that a lot of the dialogue feels pointless. Interactions between characters that aren’t the FMC and MMC feel like they could be scrapped entirely. On top of this, the writing style is full of sentence fragments, which makes it hard to follow. There are periods where there should be commas and I wish the author would expand into longer, more descriptive sentences. Personally, I feel that she could benefit greatly from a new editor.
While I love the trope of a black cat and golden retriever, it falls flat here. Adrian’s endless optimism feels like naïveté and near idiocy rather than good spirits. He’s like a fortune cookie, always chirping absolute positive nonsense. His hyperfixation on Sonya is confusing rather than endearing - why is he so desperate to have her? It’s not because she’s not attainable and he likes the chase, as implied. He’s desperate to take care of her and win her over, but there’s no build up to him feeling this way at all - right out of the gate, he MUST have her and can see no other woman. While I love “darling” as a pet name, it feels like it’s every other word out of his mouth and quickly becomes annoying.
Similarly, Sonya is also drawn to Adrian - but she completely shuts down her feelings, refuses to smile or laugh, and is robotic. Her internal monologue is the same as her external showing - there’s not much conflict in regard to her feelings. One could say this is simply the fact that she’s an unreliable narrator, but it seems to go beyond that. I found nothing to attach myself to with her.
I did not go into this book knowing that it was a sequel, so I missed out on learning about the other characters. Not all books should be the same, but I did feel confused and left out by all of the characters that were introduced prior to this book. In most books, characters are reintroduced - especially when there’s a POV change, if only to get a grasp on the character’s feelings for another. Here, there was very little of that. We really only get to know Sonya and Adrian - and, at 41%, I knew very little about them.
I think this author has something special, but really needs a better editor to help her clean up the storytelling and help to smooth out the writing style. I wish her the very best of luck, and while I didn’t personally enjoy this book, I’m so happy to see that others did! Not every book is for every person. Thank you very much to Sookh for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2025
I was fortunate enough to be an ARC reader for “Facing Off” and am ecstatic over the story between Adrien and Sonya!
Sonya is your black cat vibe, hates everyone and never smiles. Adrien is the happy golden retriever who just wants to spread joy and love to all.
Almost immediately in this story, Adrien falls head over heels for Sonya, and makes a fool of himself while trying to get her attention. Very insta one sided love. Sonya though loves being a loner and has no interest in falling for Adrien’s shenanigans.
There are multiple time jumps, so really this love story takes place over a multitude of years, and being able to fall in love with both characters and their emotions it tears your heart out for Adrien and the fact that he holds on for so long.
While the first few chapters start out slow, it builds the foundation for an epic romance and really helps to immerse you into the story. Sookh Kaur wrote the love story methodically and with precision so that you can dive in and feel as though you were a part of the romance that slowly brewed.
Be sure to check out her newest release, Facing Off, on November 7, 2025 when it’s released!!
Sonya is your black cat vibe, hates everyone and never smiles. Adrien is the happy golden retriever who just wants to spread joy and love to all.
Almost immediately in this story, Adrien falls head over heels for Sonya, and makes a fool of himself while trying to get her attention. Very insta one sided love. Sonya though loves being a loner and has no interest in falling for Adrien’s shenanigans.
There are multiple time jumps, so really this love story takes place over a multitude of years, and being able to fall in love with both characters and their emotions it tears your heart out for Adrien and the fact that he holds on for so long.
While the first few chapters start out slow, it builds the foundation for an epic romance and really helps to immerse you into the story. Sookh Kaur wrote the love story methodically and with precision so that you can dive in and feel as though you were a part of the romance that slowly brewed.
Be sure to check out her newest release, Facing Off, on November 7, 2025 when it’s released!!
September 15, 2025
I had the honor of beta-reading this amazing sequel, and if you could see my comments, you'd think I was insane🤣 Most of the time it was me saying "OMG" or "AHHHH" or "#goals" haha- very little comments on the writing, because it was just *that* good. I mean, I stayed up until near 2am Saturday morning to finish!!
Facing Off is Book #2 in the series, and follows the story of Sonya and Adrian, our black cat x golden retriever characters. Now, in my reviews, I like to express how I felt reading (rather than summarizing the plot of the story) so that's what I will be doing here! To start off- I freaking loved Facing Off. Hands down, 10/10. I may be a bit partial, since one of my first ever ARCs I read (back in 2024, omg!) was Breaking Away, but it really is such a good read. I agree with some folks- the sequels have a hard time outshining the first books, but this was one *just as good* as Breaking Away.
I love how Sookh portrays Sonya in her feelings and emotions regarding being a foster child. She didn't get that "perfect family" that a lot of adoptable children dream of- she got (the best way I can describe) as "just enough." Just enough to be considered to have basic necessities, but nothing extra came her way. And I refuse to spoil anything, but seeing how her relationship with Quinn has changed and evolved over the years is just beautifully written and had me in near tears at the end.
And the spice? Perfect level!! In fact, I'm such a degenerate that I could always want more, but it really is perfect the way it is written🤣 Every scene felt natural, and nothing written felt like it was forced. Plus, we always love a man who enjoys going down on his knees and begging😏
Facing Off is Book #2 in the series, and follows the story of Sonya and Adrian, our black cat x golden retriever characters. Now, in my reviews, I like to express how I felt reading (rather than summarizing the plot of the story) so that's what I will be doing here! To start off- I freaking loved Facing Off. Hands down, 10/10. I may be a bit partial, since one of my first ever ARCs I read (back in 2024, omg!) was Breaking Away, but it really is such a good read. I agree with some folks- the sequels have a hard time outshining the first books, but this was one *just as good* as Breaking Away.
I love how Sookh portrays Sonya in her feelings and emotions regarding being a foster child. She didn't get that "perfect family" that a lot of adoptable children dream of- she got (the best way I can describe) as "just enough." Just enough to be considered to have basic necessities, but nothing extra came her way. And I refuse to spoil anything, but seeing how her relationship with Quinn has changed and evolved over the years is just beautifully written and had me in near tears at the end.
And the spice? Perfect level!! In fact, I'm such a degenerate that I could always want more, but it really is perfect the way it is written🤣 Every scene felt natural, and nothing written felt like it was forced. Plus, we always love a man who enjoys going down on his knees and begging😏
November 10, 2025
I will read any book @sookhkaur writes and so Facing Off was a no brainer. Can I just say, the dedication in this book? Was literally everything to me, we love an authentic, grumpy girl and we love having our unique traits validated! I loved being back in this world with the my boys from the Wings team! And even being warned about Sonya, her grumpiness was really something else and I loved it! But she's not just grumpy, she's antisocial nor does she trust anyone easily - if at all - and I think that we can all relate to her character in some way.
Adrian Hughes is a very cocky character and in the beginning it did kind of get on my nerves a little, but I loved that we start to understand him more as the story progresses. These two characters had a heartbreaking past, Adrian being the only boy with 6 sisters all from different fathers and Sonya from coming out of the system where she didn't have a terrible life, but grew up with no one interested in her at all. And I thought is was absolutely beautiful the way these two had to work through these things and finally realise that they can find a home in each other.
I really loved Sonya's relationship with Adrian's (very ugly) cat, Diana. I enjoyed seeing more of her and Kavi's friendship. I really enjoyed the settings in this book, the rink, the ballet studio, the plane, the warehouse party in Oslo, Adrian's gym!! It was all so fresh and vivid. The stakes in this book are really good, I was invested in the Wings team as well as in Sonya's career as a dancer and I loved how much these things contributed to both these character's growth.
Adrian Hughes is a very cocky character and in the beginning it did kind of get on my nerves a little, but I loved that we start to understand him more as the story progresses. These two characters had a heartbreaking past, Adrian being the only boy with 6 sisters all from different fathers and Sonya from coming out of the system where she didn't have a terrible life, but grew up with no one interested in her at all. And I thought is was absolutely beautiful the way these two had to work through these things and finally realise that they can find a home in each other.
I really loved Sonya's relationship with Adrian's (very ugly) cat, Diana. I enjoyed seeing more of her and Kavi's friendship. I really enjoyed the settings in this book, the rink, the ballet studio, the plane, the warehouse party in Oslo, Adrian's gym!! It was all so fresh and vivid. The stakes in this book are really good, I was invested in the Wings team as well as in Sonya's career as a dancer and I loved how much these things contributed to both these character's growth.
November 4, 2025
Such a fun story with a lot of emotional drive and tension. I loved the characters and they were so raw and believable with all of their struggles (past and present.)
The only part that was a little distracting was the exclamation points. I felt they started popping up constantly and it was making the reading experience feel a little cheesy. But beyond that the writing was so well done and I thought the pacing was perfect. It had great steam and chemistry between the two main characters.
I love the vulnerability and the sweet gestures. It was really such a great story.
Both characters had such dynamic personalities. I could easily see why the story worked so well between them. Incredibly HOT and I loved the grumpy ballerina x sunshine hockey player. And also those personality twists.
Another fun part was the emphasis on his friendship with HER brother. I was cracking up on some parts. Full belly laughs. The banter was gold between friends and between the two main characters.
This checked so many marks for what I look for in a romance. Deep vulnerability, chemistry, tension, banter, and just generally being invested in the character's lives. And the heart wrenching emotions. This book pulled me apart and put me back together. It has so much dimension. Absolutely recommend.
The only part that was a little distracting was the exclamation points. I felt they started popping up constantly and it was making the reading experience feel a little cheesy. But beyond that the writing was so well done and I thought the pacing was perfect. It had great steam and chemistry between the two main characters.
I love the vulnerability and the sweet gestures. It was really such a great story.
Both characters had such dynamic personalities. I could easily see why the story worked so well between them. Incredibly HOT and I loved the grumpy ballerina x sunshine hockey player. And also those personality twists.
Another fun part was the emphasis on his friendship with HER brother. I was cracking up on some parts. Full belly laughs. The banter was gold between friends and between the two main characters.
This checked so many marks for what I look for in a romance. Deep vulnerability, chemistry, tension, banter, and just generally being invested in the character's lives. And the heart wrenching emotions. This book pulled me apart and put me back together. It has so much dimension. Absolutely recommend.
November 2, 2025
✨️ARC Review✨️
4.5⭐️ for Facing Off by Sookh Kaur
Sports romance are my jam, and I absolutely adored this one. I fell for Adrien pretty fast, much faster than the FCM in fact, because her black cat attitude and trauma made her resist him until she finally said f*ck it.
Adrien though, he falls first and he falls HARD, he was completely head over heals for Sonya and I just loved that so much. He wanted her, and he was patient enough to wait until she was ready, and the way he took take of her at every opportunity had me swooning. He's her biggest supporter and greatest fan too, and I loved him so much.
I loved the mental health rep in the story, and Sonya and Adrien opening up about their trauma had me shedding a few tears; they each have their own version of trauma, but they work through it together to become the best versions of themselves.
This one was a slow burn - and I mean SLOW - but completely worth it in the end when they get their HEA. It's spicy, it's sweet, and worth a read for sure!
Thank you to Sookh Kaur for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
4.5⭐️ for Facing Off by Sookh Kaur
Sports romance are my jam, and I absolutely adored this one. I fell for Adrien pretty fast, much faster than the FCM in fact, because her black cat attitude and trauma made her resist him until she finally said f*ck it.
Adrien though, he falls first and he falls HARD, he was completely head over heals for Sonya and I just loved that so much. He wanted her, and he was patient enough to wait until she was ready, and the way he took take of her at every opportunity had me swooning. He's her biggest supporter and greatest fan too, and I loved him so much.
I loved the mental health rep in the story, and Sonya and Adrien opening up about their trauma had me shedding a few tears; they each have their own version of trauma, but they work through it together to become the best versions of themselves.
This one was a slow burn - and I mean SLOW - but completely worth it in the end when they get their HEA. It's spicy, it's sweet, and worth a read for sure!
Thank you to Sookh Kaur for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
November 6, 2025
I think it was a privilege to have had the opportunity to ARC read Facing Off by Sookh Kaur. The story revolves around Adrian, a cocky hockey captain, and Sonya, a black cat ballerina. These two shouldn’t mix like oil and water, he’s a golden retriever, always finding an opportunity to help and make other people smile, while Sonya is… not. She’s the solar opposite of Adrain, she doesn’t have a lot of friends, and she shies away from all the events her brother and her best friend try to rope her into.
But there is more than meets the eye. Adrian has been carrying a guilt on shoulders that only Sonya managed to catch. And Sonya has been hiding her real feelings and emotions behind her frowns, so much so that Adrian has catalogued each one of them.
Their stories make them so raw and vulnerable, that getting each piece of them felt like a victory for the reader too. I was so invested in getting to their happy ending, every banter, every joke, every suppressed word or smiles made me love these two so much.
Thank you Sook Kaur for the ARC, all opinions are my own
But there is more than meets the eye. Adrian has been carrying a guilt on shoulders that only Sonya managed to catch. And Sonya has been hiding her real feelings and emotions behind her frowns, so much so that Adrian has catalogued each one of them.
Their stories make them so raw and vulnerable, that getting each piece of them felt like a victory for the reader too. I was so invested in getting to their happy ending, every banter, every joke, every suppressed word or smiles made me love these two so much.
Thank you Sook Kaur for the ARC, all opinions are my own
November 23, 2025
Touching Adrian is what ballet feels like when I'm dancing as close to a perfect performance as I've ever gotten. Adrenaline and elation, feeling free, and how everything else fades into the background. It's everything.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book for which I'm eternally grateful 🥲❤️
this was my first book by Sookh Kaur but definitely not the last.
It sucked me in so thoroughly I devoured it in two days! if my kids would have let me I could have done it in one.
🏒 (best) friends foster sister
🩰 black cat FMC x golden retriever MMC
🏒 ballet x hockey
🩰 reformed playboy
🏒 slow-burn
🩰 hurt/comfort
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐,5
spice: 🌶️,5 but yummy
Adrian Hughes the cocky always happy Captain of the Vancouver Wings, who flirts with everyone, until... At first he did kind of get on my nerves like he got on Sonya's but he grown on me and hard! He falls first and he falls hard but he shows his love with actions not with pretty words.
But with Sonya darling I liked her from page 1, I connected with her!
... some days I hate everyone. and other days, I still hate everyone.The representation of the woman of color was so refreshing we don't see it enough.
The background stories of both characters are heartbreaking, real and raw, which I always appreciate. Both characters are so complex and well written.
Hurt/ comfort is one of my favorite tropes right next to mental health rep, so this book was right up my alley! + the banter is chef's kiss - she bites and he melts!
I loved the pacing of the relationship it's a slow-burn for sure (like the first kiss is around 70% slooow) also highly appreciated how they really got to know each other on a deeper level before anything happened. + I'm a sucker for the nickname baby !!!
If you are looking for a book with angst and banter, baggage- deep vulnerability, stepping up for the other, and deeply caring I would highly recommend you give this story a chance!
November 12, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I saw this featured in the catalog and it piqued my interest. I do love a good hockey romance and it was unique to see the hero paired with an Asian ballerina. After a few chapters, I was thoroughly confused. This was marketed as a standalone yet as a reader I was missing huge gaps and character backgrounds. Context aside, the writing was very choppy and repetitive. The author kept saying the same thing but with different words. The heroine also ran very hot and cold. She was intrigued yet kept rebuffing the hero's attempts at wooing her. I wanted to give this book a fair chance, but it was an overall mess. I am still on the lookout for fun interracial romance or even a steamy hockey story that doesn't perpetuate stereotypes. I'm thankful for this opportunity but Facing Off missed the net.
I saw this featured in the catalog and it piqued my interest. I do love a good hockey romance and it was unique to see the hero paired with an Asian ballerina. After a few chapters, I was thoroughly confused. This was marketed as a standalone yet as a reader I was missing huge gaps and character backgrounds. Context aside, the writing was very choppy and repetitive. The author kept saying the same thing but with different words. The heroine also ran very hot and cold. She was intrigued yet kept rebuffing the hero's attempts at wooing her. I wanted to give this book a fair chance, but it was an overall mess. I am still on the lookout for fun interracial romance or even a steamy hockey story that doesn't perpetuate stereotypes. I'm thankful for this opportunity but Facing Off missed the net.
November 17, 2025
Overall this was a solid hockey romance. I loved the found family vibes in the hockey team, I loved the slow burn and the tension between Adrian and Sonya and I’m a big fan of the reverse grumpy/sunshine trope.
I really really HATED that Adrian kept calling her “darling” - it seemed really out of character and i cringed every time I read it.
I also felt like there was too much going on in the plot and it kind of felt a bit messy?
I liked the slow burn but then the end had WAY too much spice in a short amount of pages and i didn’t love how those scenes were written.
Thank you so much to Sookh Kaur for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really really HATED that Adrian kept calling her “darling” - it seemed really out of character and i cringed every time I read it.
I also felt like there was too much going on in the plot and it kind of felt a bit messy?
I liked the slow burn but then the end had WAY too much spice in a short amount of pages and i didn’t love how those scenes were written.
Thank you so much to Sookh Kaur for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book (although i missed it for a bit as it got filtered to my junk email). This book was absolutely adorable. Aiden was the definition of golden retriever and Sonya was the perfect black cat. I loved the mental health rep in this book. It shows that having a chosen family behind you is absolutely everything.
I cannot recommend this book enough!
I cannot recommend this book enough!
November 5, 2025
ARC REVIEW!
Facing Off is a black cat/golden retriever romance where he falls first.
Sonya and Adrian were perfect together. They helped each other work through their trauma and supported each other every step of the way.
Sonya is a ballerina who is powerful, strong but also stubborn. She could do anything she wants. Adrian, on the other hand, puts everyone else first and wants to help everyone. He falls first and deep!
If you could have seen me reading you would have thought I was crazy. There were times where I almost started crying and other times where I laughed out loud.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Slow burn
Reverse black cat x golden retriever
Ballerina x Hockey Capitan
Boy obsessed
It will be available on November 7th, so go check it out!!
I want to thank Sookh Kaur and her team for the opportunity to read the ARC! 💜
Facing Off is a black cat/golden retriever romance where he falls first.
Sonya and Adrian were perfect together. They helped each other work through their trauma and supported each other every step of the way.
Sonya is a ballerina who is powerful, strong but also stubborn. She could do anything she wants. Adrian, on the other hand, puts everyone else first and wants to help everyone. He falls first and deep!
If you could have seen me reading you would have thought I was crazy. There were times where I almost started crying and other times where I laughed out loud.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Slow burn
Reverse black cat x golden retriever
Ballerina x Hockey Capitan
Boy obsessed
It will be available on November 7th, so go check it out!!
I want to thank Sookh Kaur and her team for the opportunity to read the ARC! 💜
November 1, 2025
ARC Review - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed the book and could hardly put it down after I started reading. I cried a little while reading it, but I also often laughed and swooned about it. I loved their snarky banter throughout the entire book. I like how everything develops slowly and how the two build a deep trust in each other. The analogy with the black cat and the golden retriever fits them perfectly. The relationship between Sonya and Adrian develops very naturally throughout the book. He has to fight hard to win her trust. Over time, you understand why it's so difficult for Sonya and why she keeps withdrawing whenever she and Adrian get closer. Both have traumatic experiences behind them and help each other process them. They challenge and support each other.
I really liked how Adrian's family immediately welcomed Sonya warmly and made her feel like she belonged. And how the team stuck together and how they all grew together like their found family.
The only thing I sometimes struggled with were the time jumps during which Adrian is fighting for Sonya. I always needed a moment to realize that several months had passed again since they last saw each other.
I really enjoyed the book and could hardly put it down after I started reading. I cried a little while reading it, but I also often laughed and swooned about it. I loved their snarky banter throughout the entire book. I like how everything develops slowly and how the two build a deep trust in each other. The analogy with the black cat and the golden retriever fits them perfectly. The relationship between Sonya and Adrian develops very naturally throughout the book. He has to fight hard to win her trust. Over time, you understand why it's so difficult for Sonya and why she keeps withdrawing whenever she and Adrian get closer. Both have traumatic experiences behind them and help each other process them. They challenge and support each other.
I really liked how Adrian's family immediately welcomed Sonya warmly and made her feel like she belonged. And how the team stuck together and how they all grew together like their found family.
The only thing I sometimes struggled with were the time jumps during which Adrian is fighting for Sonya. I always needed a moment to realize that several months had passed again since they last saw each other.
November 7, 2025
ARC review
Absolute love! Sonya the black cat ballerina and Adrien the golden retriever hockey captain. Honestly? I fell in love with them both in Breaking Away so following them into Facing Off was perfect. Adrien fell hard for her so fast and I love how he respected that she wasn't ready and helped her through her trauma and was there for her in ways that every woman dreams about. Slowburn, but once that match was lit...... 🔥🥵.
Sookh Kaur amazing book again!!!!
Absolute love! Sonya the black cat ballerina and Adrien the golden retriever hockey captain. Honestly? I fell in love with them both in Breaking Away so following them into Facing Off was perfect. Adrien fell hard for her so fast and I love how he respected that she wasn't ready and helped her through her trauma and was there for her in ways that every woman dreams about. Slowburn, but once that match was lit...... 🔥🥵.
Sookh Kaur amazing book again!!!!
November 4, 2025
Adrian, the captain of the hockey team, and Sonya, his teammate’s foster sister — a sharp-tongued, graceful ballerina with a world of emotions hidden beneath her cold exterior.
Adrian starts off by making a bet with himself — he’s determined to get a reaction out of Sonya, to make her notice him. What begins as playful teasing slowly turns into something deeper, something he can’t pull himself away from. Adrian might be known as the charming playboy, but around Sonya, he’s a completely different person.
Sonya, on the other hand, is a black-cat ballerina — fiery, disciplined, and guarded. She’s someone who’s had to build walls around herself to survive. People think she’s rude or arrogant, but as we read, we see that she’s just hurt. She doesn’t trust easily and struggles to let anyone in.
From the very beginning, we get glimpses of how layered she is. Sonya has a lot of emotional baggage, but what I love about her is her strength. Her entire focus is on her dream — and she gives her heart and soul to it.
Meanwhile, Adrian is her constant — steady, patient, and impossibly devoted. He cares for her in ways that words can’t quite capture.
Their chemistry? Electric. 🔥 The tension had me grinning, swooning, and maybe even kicking my feet in the air. The number of times Adrian went down on his knees for her 🥵—while hardly letting her—not out of pride, but love — had my heart in a chokehold. He worships her quietly, like she’s both his storm and his calm.
Throughout the book, Adrian is her constant — showing up when she needs someone, even when she doesn’t ask. He’s obsessed, yes, but it’s more than that. It’s care. It’s devotion. It’s love disguised as persistence.
Sonya, in her usual grumpy way, hurts him sometimes with her words, but Adrian never holds a grudge. He just loves her harder. And slowly, without realizing, she starts to let him in — not through grand gestures, but in small, quiet moments.
And then there’s that one line — the one that lingers long after you close the book:
“𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘮?”
That’s the moment everything shifts. That’s when Sonya truly starts to see him — not just as the annoying hockey captain, but as someone who deserves care too.
What makes this book special is the emotional growth both characters go through. It’s beautiful to watch how love softens Sonya’s edges and steadies Adrian’s heart.
I laughed, cried, and smiled through every page. Facing Off reminded me that sometimes love isn’t about fixing someone — it’s about standing beside them until they’re ready to heal.
Adrian starts off by making a bet with himself — he’s determined to get a reaction out of Sonya, to make her notice him. What begins as playful teasing slowly turns into something deeper, something he can’t pull himself away from. Adrian might be known as the charming playboy, but around Sonya, he’s a completely different person.
Sonya, on the other hand, is a black-cat ballerina — fiery, disciplined, and guarded. She’s someone who’s had to build walls around herself to survive. People think she’s rude or arrogant, but as we read, we see that she’s just hurt. She doesn’t trust easily and struggles to let anyone in.
From the very beginning, we get glimpses of how layered she is. Sonya has a lot of emotional baggage, but what I love about her is her strength. Her entire focus is on her dream — and she gives her heart and soul to it.
Meanwhile, Adrian is her constant — steady, patient, and impossibly devoted. He cares for her in ways that words can’t quite capture.
Their chemistry? Electric. 🔥 The tension had me grinning, swooning, and maybe even kicking my feet in the air. The number of times Adrian went down on his knees for her 🥵—while hardly letting her—not out of pride, but love — had my heart in a chokehold. He worships her quietly, like she’s both his storm and his calm.
Throughout the book, Adrian is her constant — showing up when she needs someone, even when she doesn’t ask. He’s obsessed, yes, but it’s more than that. It’s care. It’s devotion. It’s love disguised as persistence.
Sonya, in her usual grumpy way, hurts him sometimes with her words, but Adrian never holds a grudge. He just loves her harder. And slowly, without realizing, she starts to let him in — not through grand gestures, but in small, quiet moments.
And then there’s that one line — the one that lingers long after you close the book:
“𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘮?”
That’s the moment everything shifts. That’s when Sonya truly starts to see him — not just as the annoying hockey captain, but as someone who deserves care too.
What makes this book special is the emotional growth both characters go through. It’s beautiful to watch how love softens Sonya’s edges and steadies Adrian’s heart.
I laughed, cried, and smiled through every page. Facing Off reminded me that sometimes love isn’t about fixing someone — it’s about standing beside them until they’re ready to heal.
November 6, 2025
Face off is a heartfelt slow burn romance between the mmc Adrian, the captain of the Vancouver Wings who just wants his team to stay together and succeed and for Sonya to finally pay attention to him. And Sonya the fmc, who after her tough past has always been extremely independent and enjoys her solitude, but she’s trying really hard to be the first black south Asian principal dancer so she wants Adrian to leave her alone. Y’all can guess how that goes lol
I couldn’t help but fall absolutely in love with Adrian’s character. He falls first and hard, and he was so head over heals for Sonya. He wanted her so badly that he was so patient with her, always looking out for her and trying to make her comfortable and help her in any way he could. He was her biggest supporter and fan. He had me grinning like a fool, laughing out loud and swooning because he was the sweetest mmc ever honestly.
Sonya’s character was a bit difficult because while I understood why she was the way she was it was hard to connect with her. Her character growth and development was amazing. In the end I really liked her and how she accepted Adrian and learned how to let others love her and learned to show her love and feelings for them as well.
This story is full of banter, pinning, mental health representation and support. The found family was so cute, I loved the teammates dynamic and Sonya’s with her best friend. The spice was incredible, I had to take a break to appreciate everything that was happening lol.
I’m hoping Quinn (her brother) gets his own book because oh my gosh I loved him 🥹
I know this part of the review might be a bit controversial but I was so close to dnf’ing this because it was a true slooooow burn and I was struggling with the personality of the fmc because the mmc is one of the most goofiest lovely golden retriever mmc ever and she just kept pushing him back but she eventually grew on me and I’m glad I kept reading.
🩰 black cat fmc x golden retriever mmc
🏒 reformed captain playboy
🩰 amazing banter
🏒 found family
🩰 pinning & yearning
🏒 teammate sister
🩰 traumatic past’s
4/5 ⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with this arc! <3
I couldn’t help but fall absolutely in love with Adrian’s character. He falls first and hard, and he was so head over heals for Sonya. He wanted her so badly that he was so patient with her, always looking out for her and trying to make her comfortable and help her in any way he could. He was her biggest supporter and fan. He had me grinning like a fool, laughing out loud and swooning because he was the sweetest mmc ever honestly.
Sonya’s character was a bit difficult because while I understood why she was the way she was it was hard to connect with her. Her character growth and development was amazing. In the end I really liked her and how she accepted Adrian and learned how to let others love her and learned to show her love and feelings for them as well.
This story is full of banter, pinning, mental health representation and support. The found family was so cute, I loved the teammates dynamic and Sonya’s with her best friend. The spice was incredible, I had to take a break to appreciate everything that was happening lol.
I’m hoping Quinn (her brother) gets his own book because oh my gosh I loved him 🥹
I know this part of the review might be a bit controversial but I was so close to dnf’ing this because it was a true slooooow burn and I was struggling with the personality of the fmc because the mmc is one of the most goofiest lovely golden retriever mmc ever and she just kept pushing him back but she eventually grew on me and I’m glad I kept reading.
🩰 black cat fmc x golden retriever mmc
🏒 reformed captain playboy
🩰 amazing banter
🏒 found family
🩰 pinning & yearning
🏒 teammate sister
🩰 traumatic past’s
4/5 ⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with this arc! <3
November 1, 2025
Facing Off is an amazing story that beautifully encapsulates two very different but ironically similar individuals falling in love. And of course, he falls first! The story is a great black cat/golden retriever story that doesn't just take you on a journey of the perfect romance, but also the journey to self love and forgiveness. I loved seeing the growth that both Adrian and Sonia have throughout the book. Adrian’s love for Sonia is to die for and seeing it grow along with his actions made me fall in love with him myself. The way Adrian accepts for who she is and loves every single part of her is truly amazing to read. I loved Sonia's watching own journey with falling in love with the man who is ver complete opposite. Watching I reading Sonia overcoming her own personal hurdles fears while showing Adrian her own in way how for him she cares was great. I loved the slow burn and really loved getting to see Sonia's walls slowly breaking down for Adrian. Also, I I LOVE a consent king! Adrian the man that you are 😍
On another note, I also want to address my appreciation for the mental health representation as and a, in my opinion, not very well known and overlooked condition. Overall, I enjoyed the love, laughter, tears, and growth in this story.
4.5 ⭐️/🌶️🌶️
On another note, I also want to address my appreciation for the mental health representation as and a, in my opinion, not very well known and overlooked condition. Overall, I enjoyed the love, laughter, tears, and growth in this story.
4.5 ⭐️/🌶️🌶️
November 12, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy. The following review represents my honest opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and I appreciated how long it took the characters to get together. The timeline added to the authenticity of the relationship. The actual relationship was so fun to read and I loved the parts about ballet.
I will say though that I struggled while reading the dialogue. It felt almost formulaic and cringy at times which lead to me struggling to get into the story. I also struggled with Adrian's character, he was incredibly immature at times. I was also confused at how the side characters played a large role in the beginning of the novel and then almost dropped off the face of the earth about halfway through.
I definitely liked this book and would recommend it despite my struggles with it!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and I appreciated how long it took the characters to get together. The timeline added to the authenticity of the relationship. The actual relationship was so fun to read and I loved the parts about ballet.
I will say though that I struggled while reading the dialogue. It felt almost formulaic and cringy at times which lead to me struggling to get into the story. I also struggled with Adrian's character, he was incredibly immature at times. I was also confused at how the side characters played a large role in the beginning of the novel and then almost dropped off the face of the earth about halfway through.
I definitely liked this book and would recommend it despite my struggles with it!
November 5, 2025
arc review
Ohhhh, I absolutely loved Sonya and Adrian's story!
The black cat ballerina and the golden retriever hockey captain? Who knew they'd be such a perfect fit!
The story starts off slow- there is not a lot of details and theres a few time jumps. But that did not take away from the plot and story!
I love the slowburn between these two. Adrian is already aboard the ship of them both, but Sonya takes longer to warm up to the idea. But when it hits? Sparks fly, walls come down and things get emotional.
This was my first read by Sookh Kaur and an absolute amazing introduction! I love the writing, the plotting and the whole storyline. The characters are fun, the love is deep and the backstories are heartbreaking. Definitely a wonderful read!
Ohhhh, I absolutely loved Sonya and Adrian's story!
The black cat ballerina and the golden retriever hockey captain? Who knew they'd be such a perfect fit!
The story starts off slow- there is not a lot of details and theres a few time jumps. But that did not take away from the plot and story!
I love the slowburn between these two. Adrian is already aboard the ship of them both, but Sonya takes longer to warm up to the idea. But when it hits? Sparks fly, walls come down and things get emotional.
This was my first read by Sookh Kaur and an absolute amazing introduction! I love the writing, the plotting and the whole storyline. The characters are fun, the love is deep and the backstories are heartbreaking. Definitely a wonderful read!
November 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I loved Breaking Away so when I was sent an ARC copy of Facing Off, I was beyond excited. Thank you Sookh Kaur for the ARC copy!
This book was amazing! I love sports romance books but this one was so much more than that. This book showcased the hard truths behind the glamor and how athletes are often overlooked and set aside when they need help. The mental health rep was amazing and I felt so deeply for both Sonya and Adrian and all their trauma, I might have shed a tear or two.
Sonya and Adrian's relationship was a slow burn 🔥 and I loved every second of it. The yearning was impeccable and the black cat and golden retriever dynamic was chef's kiss 💋
I need a Quinn book next, please!
I loved Breaking Away so when I was sent an ARC copy of Facing Off, I was beyond excited. Thank you Sookh Kaur for the ARC copy!
This book was amazing! I love sports romance books but this one was so much more than that. This book showcased the hard truths behind the glamor and how athletes are often overlooked and set aside when they need help. The mental health rep was amazing and I felt so deeply for both Sonya and Adrian and all their trauma, I might have shed a tear or two.
Sonya and Adrian's relationship was a slow burn 🔥 and I loved every second of it. The yearning was impeccable and the black cat and golden retriever dynamic was chef's kiss 💋
I need a Quinn book next, please!
Read
November 1, 2025ARC REVIEW
I was so invested in Sonya & Adrian’s story. I will say it took me a little bit to really get into it, but once I did I was utterly hooked.
Facing off uses the black cat / golden retriever trope so well - and if you know me, you know this is one of my favourite tropes !! Both characters compliment each other so well and a highlight is for sure seeing how Adrian is able to break down Sonya’s walls and earns her trust.
This story is a perfect blend of several tropes including black cat/golden retriever, hockey romance, ‘he falls first’ & best friend’s sister, while still blending deeply emotional topics. This is definitely an emotional rollercoaster.
The Banter!!! if a book has good banter I’m sat and this was no exception.
Thank you to Sookh & her team for the ARC !
I was so invested in Sonya & Adrian’s story. I will say it took me a little bit to really get into it, but once I did I was utterly hooked.
Facing off uses the black cat / golden retriever trope so well - and if you know me, you know this is one of my favourite tropes !! Both characters compliment each other so well and a highlight is for sure seeing how Adrian is able to break down Sonya’s walls and earns her trust.
This story is a perfect blend of several tropes including black cat/golden retriever, hockey romance, ‘he falls first’ & best friend’s sister, while still blending deeply emotional topics. This is definitely an emotional rollercoaster.
The Banter!!! if a book has good banter I’m sat and this was no exception.
Thank you to Sookh & her team for the ARC !
November 8, 2025
A black cat 🐈⬛ x golden retriever 🐕 , ballet 🩰 x hockey 🏒 romance, I love that we have a South Asian FMC, and that it’s not all fun and games in this book - we see different types of grief processing / trauma response, and all the support in this heartwarming story. But it’s not all tinged with sadness - there’s a lot of great snark as the MCs try to hide their feelings, I love the found family, and just how eternally optimistic Adrian (MMC) appears to be, but Sonya (FMC) is the first to see he’s not ok. Adrian also sees what she needs, and the goes over the top because he can’t help himself 🤭
Thank you to the author for the eARC!
Thank you to the author for the eARC!
December 13, 2025
This book just got me out of a major reading slump. I needed something light but developed, fun but moving, and as always our girl Sookh delivers. I have very little interest in either hockey or ballet, but I felt like Sookh did a wonderful job of blending these two worlds and creating a beautiful story from start to finish. I was fully invested and loved seeing dynamic characters with really unexpected arcs. Some of the messages were ones that I really needed to hear, and to have that kind of depth in a sexy romance is pretty rare. Sookh, you brought me back to the world of books and for that I am truly grateful.
October 29, 2025
ARC review - 4.5 stars:
I loved both Sonya and Adrian from page one, but I was not prepared for the emotional depth their story ended up having.
I liked how healthy and therapeutic their approach to working through trauma was (eventually), and it felt like their relationship was real and provided the perfect supportive space for them to grow/heal together.
I was expecting a little more tension or drama from the plot at the end, but I'm not mad at it because it felt like their emotional freedom was the main purpose of the story (and that side of it was handled really well).
I loved both Sonya and Adrian from page one, but I was not prepared for the emotional depth their story ended up having.
I liked how healthy and therapeutic their approach to working through trauma was (eventually), and it felt like their relationship was real and provided the perfect supportive space for them to grow/heal together.
I was expecting a little more tension or drama from the plot at the end, but I'm not mad at it because it felt like their emotional freedom was the main purpose of the story (and that side of it was handled really well).
December 6, 2025
This is my third book by this author and it did not disappoint. This is part of her hockey romance series, which is interconnected standalones.
In this story we follow Adrian and Sonya and their story was a joy to read. I absolutely loved the black cat x golden retriever vibes and I loved watching Sonya grow and learn to love and trust and get over her personal mental blocks that were stopping her from reaching her own greatness!
So if you’re locking for a good hockey player ballerina love story with immaculate spice, check this one out this winter!
In this story we follow Adrian and Sonya and their story was a joy to read. I absolutely loved the black cat x golden retriever vibes and I loved watching Sonya grow and learn to love and trust and get over her personal mental blocks that were stopping her from reaching her own greatness!
So if you’re locking for a good hockey player ballerina love story with immaculate spice, check this one out this winter!
December 13, 2025
I love a good slow burn like any other romantic girly, but this book was everything. The banter was sharp and effortless, the struggles felt raw and real, and the resilience and perseverance woven throughout the story made it truly special. This wasn’t just about romance—it was about growth, endurance, and choosing love despite the obstacles. Every moment felt earned, and the emotional payoff was so worth the wait. A beautifully written story that stayed with me long after I turned the last page. 5/5 ⭐️
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