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D.C. Renegades #1
Unmasking Love
Book One of the D.C. Renegades Hockey Club RomCom series! Can two people with guarded hearts find their way to each other—and something real?
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
Within these pages we'll learn if Aiden can find the courage to open his heart and if Harper will realize she’s enough just as she is. Click BUY NOW to start reading this heartfelt and steamy hockey romcom.
this book contains interpretations of hockey locker room antics and was written by a person who has never played a game of ice hockey in her life. In an effort to respect all readers the author had a men's league hockey player beta read certain scenes and he told his wife she was definitely writing fiction.
But seriously this book contains on and off page infidelity (not by our main characters or any of the good guys), off page cardiac arrest, and open-door intimacy.
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
Within these pages we'll learn if Aiden can find the courage to open his heart and if Harper will realize she’s enough just as she is. Click BUY NOW to start reading this heartfelt and steamy hockey romcom.
this book contains interpretations of hockey locker room antics and was written by a person who has never played a game of ice hockey in her life. In an effort to respect all readers the author had a men's league hockey player beta read certain scenes and he told his wife she was definitely writing fiction.
But seriously this book contains on and off page infidelity (not by our main characters or any of the good guys), off page cardiac arrest, and open-door intimacy.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2025
89 people are currently reading
554 people want to read
About the author
Erin Marie Bassett
10 books85 followersErin Marie Bassett is a geriatric millennial, wife and mother of two living in Chicago. (A mile west of Wrigley Field but she, like her husband and kids, are St. Louis Cardinal Fans). When she’s not reading or writing romance, Erin helps small businesses and local organizations use the magic words to connect with their communities. She volunteers hard at her kids school and she believes in the power of S.L.O.W. Living.
Her doctor tells her not to but she drinks a lot of coffee. Like, a lot.
Take the Book Boyfriend Quiz to be matched with one of Erin's MMCs!
erinmariebassett.com
@erinmariebassett
Her doctor tells her not to but she drinks a lot of coffee. Like, a lot.
Take the Book Boyfriend Quiz to be matched with one of Erin's MMCs!
erinmariebassett.com
@erinmariebassett
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
January 29, 2025
Did I devour this book in one day? Yes. Yes I did!
This was such a cute hockey romance book that I honesty could not put down.
This book is a dual pov which I honestly love! I feel like you get a more understanding of both characters.
Aiden is such a cutie!! And the fmc is SASSY and I love it!
There was also a bit of spice but it’s totally worth it 😮💨🔥 Aiden just takes charge in the bedroom 👀
All in all I enjoyed this book so much and if you’re itching for a good hockey romance, this book is for you !☺️
This was such a cute hockey romance book that I honesty could not put down.
This book is a dual pov which I honestly love! I feel like you get a more understanding of both characters.
Aiden is such a cutie!! And the fmc is SASSY and I love it!
There was also a bit of spice but it’s totally worth it 😮💨🔥 Aiden just takes charge in the bedroom 👀
All in all I enjoyed this book so much and if you’re itching for a good hockey romance, this book is for you !☺️
January 28, 2025
A light and feel good hockey romance about two people who don't trust easily. Aiden is the newly traded second string goalie for the DC Renegades team and his primary focus is hockey. Harper is a boss b*tch real estate agent who is taking DC by storm. A meddling team mate throws Aiden and Harper together and soon the sparks are flying! This is an open door, moderately spicy romance (🔥🔥🔥/5) that had me unable to put this ARC down! Aiden has such a gentle heart and soul but on the ice and in the bedroom he is a beast 😉 Harper is so relatable and I loved her personal growth throughout this novel and in her relationship with Aiden.
This novel is told from dual POV which is my favorite format for a novel and I loved the chapters from Aiden's POV with his teammates. The cast of characters is well developed and really brought this novel to light, I can't wait to read more in this series.
At times I found the dialogue to be a little stilted or awkward but overall it didn't take away from the plot.
This novel is told from dual POV which is my favorite format for a novel and I loved the chapters from Aiden's POV with his teammates. The cast of characters is well developed and really brought this novel to light, I can't wait to read more in this series.
At times I found the dialogue to be a little stilted or awkward but overall it didn't take away from the plot.
March 21, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
This was a fresh take on a hockey romance, it wasn’t the typical star player & fmc employed somehow with the team.
Aiden is the back up goalie and is used to being traded at the end of a season to start all over again with a new team in a new place. This has resulted in his inability to foster friendships and romantic relationships because he doesn’t see the point.
Harper is a real estate agent that now assists all of the hockey players in finding their forever homes in DC. She is a serial dater but can never get past the four month mark. She believes it’s because of something she is doing wrong.
These two are absolutely adorable and so sweet. They start off as an unlikely friendship, and it slowly naturally evolves into something more, which just made me smile and my heart happy.
This team is definitely quirky. Their locker room shenanigans are low-key ridiculous and their group chat had me chuckling out loud a couple times there’s something so unique to a found family trope when it comes to a sports romance it just hits different.
This was a fresh take on a hockey romance, it wasn’t the typical star player & fmc employed somehow with the team.
Aiden is the back up goalie and is used to being traded at the end of a season to start all over again with a new team in a new place. This has resulted in his inability to foster friendships and romantic relationships because he doesn’t see the point.
Harper is a real estate agent that now assists all of the hockey players in finding their forever homes in DC. She is a serial dater but can never get past the four month mark. She believes it’s because of something she is doing wrong.
These two are absolutely adorable and so sweet. They start off as an unlikely friendship, and it slowly naturally evolves into something more, which just made me smile and my heart happy.
This team is definitely quirky. Their locker room shenanigans are low-key ridiculous and their group chat had me chuckling out loud a couple times there’s something so unique to a found family trope when it comes to a sports romance it just hits different.
October 16, 2025
Thankyou Author and BookishBubbly for giving me this arc!
Aiden Youngren, an NHL backup goalie, is used to a transient lifestyle, never staying in one place long enough to get attached. On the other hand, Harper Daniels, a driven luxury real estate agent, is laser-focused on her career, avoiding emotional entanglements. When a house listing and Harper’s job lead them to cross paths, neither expects to meet the love of their life.
From the moment they met, their chemistry was undeniable, leading to an instant connection. Their relationship develops naturally, but Harper’s tendency to overthink and miscommunicate adds some tension. What I didn’t particularly enjoy was how Aiden seemed to be carrying most of the emotional weight in the relationship while Harper struggled to catch up. It felt a bit unbalanced at times.
Despite that, the book is a fantastic read. The heartfelt and steamy moments, combined with the emotional depth of their journey, made it an enjoyable experience. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of sports romances with strong character dynamics.
Aiden Youngren, an NHL backup goalie, is used to a transient lifestyle, never staying in one place long enough to get attached. On the other hand, Harper Daniels, a driven luxury real estate agent, is laser-focused on her career, avoiding emotional entanglements. When a house listing and Harper’s job lead them to cross paths, neither expects to meet the love of their life.
From the moment they met, their chemistry was undeniable, leading to an instant connection. Their relationship develops naturally, but Harper’s tendency to overthink and miscommunicate adds some tension. What I didn’t particularly enjoy was how Aiden seemed to be carrying most of the emotional weight in the relationship while Harper struggled to catch up. It felt a bit unbalanced at times.
Despite that, the book is a fantastic read. The heartfelt and steamy moments, combined with the emotional depth of their journey, made it an enjoyable experience. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of sports romances with strong character dynamics.
January 26, 2025
Coming February 2025, Book One of the D.C. Renegades Hockey Club RomCom series!
Can two people with guarded hearts find their way to each other—and something real?
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
I absolutely devoured this book! I love the MCs and the side characters. The banter was phenomenal and had me giggling a lot. This was slow burn for me but I was interested the whole time and read this book in one sitting.
Cannot wait to read the next book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Can two people with guarded hearts find their way to each other—and something real?
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
I absolutely devoured this book! I love the MCs and the side characters. The banter was phenomenal and had me giggling a lot. This was slow burn for me but I was interested the whole time and read this book in one sitting.
Cannot wait to read the next book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 9, 2025
Unmasking Love by Erin Marie Bassett
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Quote: “Maybe this is moving too fast. Maybe this got intense too quickly.”
Sometimes you meet your person and know instantly they are meant and needed in your life and it’s just right.
Aiden a professional hockey goalie traded season after season yet to find a team to settle into. Harper a real estate agent basically hired by the team captain to find Aiden an home.
At an open house Aiden and Harper find her boyfriend in a compromising position with his assistant. Harper dumps him and her best friend Wes is worried she is going to fall into some of her usual bad habits after a breakup and he enlists Aiden to help intervene telling him to text her quotes, make sure she eats and check in on her, as Aiden was already drawn to her he jumps all in and it turns friendship to relationship between Aiden and Harper. Their is no denying their chemistry is off the charts and they both fall hard and fast and their relationship is blossoming into love but will Harper’s fear of her past of always being dumped at the four month mark and poor communication end their relationship?
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Quote: “Maybe this is moving too fast. Maybe this got intense too quickly.”
Sometimes you meet your person and know instantly they are meant and needed in your life and it’s just right.
Aiden a professional hockey goalie traded season after season yet to find a team to settle into. Harper a real estate agent basically hired by the team captain to find Aiden an home.
At an open house Aiden and Harper find her boyfriend in a compromising position with his assistant. Harper dumps him and her best friend Wes is worried she is going to fall into some of her usual bad habits after a breakup and he enlists Aiden to help intervene telling him to text her quotes, make sure she eats and check in on her, as Aiden was already drawn to her he jumps all in and it turns friendship to relationship between Aiden and Harper. Their is no denying their chemistry is off the charts and they both fall hard and fast and their relationship is blossoming into love but will Harper’s fear of her past of always being dumped at the four month mark and poor communication end their relationship?
February 5, 2025
Super cute feel good read! I love a dual POV. Harper and Aiden had such a genuine relationship. I enjoyed the banter and camaraderie between the players. Great combination of humor, spice 🌶️ , and emotion Looking forward to the next book in the series!
February 23, 2025
I love reading Hockey romances and to have a man devoted to his women is even better 😌 I loved the dual POV and how Aiden let her do her own thing instead of forcing her to do what he wanted. Aiden would be a great bf if he was real
August 9, 2025
Ugh the way I really wanted to love this one…it’s started off so good but if just dragged for me and idk if it was me but it just couldn’t keep my attention and then the miscommunication trope hit and I was just honestly pushing my self to finish cause of my ocd.
February 9, 2025
Super excited to have been given the chance to read this early. I loved the first half of the book. I love the premise of Harper and Aiden's meet cute and how it progressed to their relationship. I enjoyed the banter and jokes between Aiden's teammates, the WAGs and Harper's bestfriend. I also appreciated the complexities introduced regarding Aiden's career as a backup goalie and Harper's relationship issues (not lasting for long). It added depth to an otherwise run of the mill sports romance.
However, I felt like the 2nd half was a bit of a drag. They got together so quick that there wasnt much use for conflicts. The 3rd act breakup seemed like something put together just because.
Overall, I dont think its a bad read at all. It still has a lot of great elements and its a unique story that I feel I have not seen on any other sports romance books where the MMC is usually the star player or a popular player on the team. Aiden is a back up goalie and his detachment issues brought the plot.
Thank you Bookish Bubbly PR for the eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
However, I felt like the 2nd half was a bit of a drag. They got together so quick that there wasnt much use for conflicts. The 3rd act breakup seemed like something put together just because.
Overall, I dont think its a bad read at all. It still has a lot of great elements and its a unique story that I feel I have not seen on any other sports romance books where the MMC is usually the star player or a popular player on the team. Aiden is a back up goalie and his detachment issues brought the plot.
Thank you Bookish Bubbly PR for the eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
February 12, 2025
this was my first hockey romance read, and it was SUCH a good one to start with. it’s definitely a spicy read, but finds such a balance between that and players that you actually like and want to root for. this is not one of those spicy books where the characters are brutal. i truly felt a part of The Renegades!! can’t wait to pick up another book by Erin!
February 11, 2025
Thanks to Bookish Bubbly PR for the arc! So cute! Loved the characters & all the hockey references. Will definitely read the second book.
March 10, 2025
E-ARC provided by Erin Marie Bassett and Good Girls PR
First, the playlist provided for this book was STELLAR!!! I am a sucker for a playlist that accompanies the book because it helps set the mood for me.
This book is the first book in a series of 6 books following 6 hockey players with the DC Renegades. Let me tell you, I will be anxiously waiting for each one of them. The characters in this book are so lovable and sexy and humorous. Unfortunately, I will have to wait until the last book for my favorite character, but I can be patient.
One more general note, I LOVE LOVE LOVE hockey romance books. I devour them from any and all authors. This series is going to be a favorite series of mine. Ms. Bassett does an excellent job of building the found family of the DC Renegades and their WAGs. She has created all the pieces that are needed for the 6 book series.
The book opens with our MMC Aiden Youngren getting acclimated to the DC area and his new team. He is going the Renegades as the 2nd string goalie. Aiden has been traded for the 8th time in 5 years. As he enters the locker room for the first time, Captain Felix leads the team in a nickname naming ceremony for their newest member, they have dubbed him “Young Gun”.
Felix wants to help Aiden transition easily to his new team and his new town, so he calls on his friend and real estate agent, our FMC, Harper Daniels to help find Aiden a place to leave. Felix has a feeling Aiden is a huge flight risk and hopes that if he has a home, he will stay put in DC.
We get to meet our FMC, Harper, while she is at her office. I was a little frustrated with Harper in the beginning of this book, she seemed very resigned to letting everyone walk all over her including her goober of a boyfriend, Crispin (what’s with that name – it just makes you hate him already – well done!) Harper is either blind or chooses not to see the suspicious behavior that Crispin has with his assistant Raquel.
Aiden keeps putting Felix off about meeting Harper and looking for a place to live. Aiden is very eco-conscious (love that – have not read that in a hockey romance before) and doesn’t want to give up the easy bike ride to the facility.
The first regular season game is upon the team and Harper has come to the game with her wingman, Wes. Harper is lamenting to Wes that she thinks something isn’t connecting with Crispin and the fact that she is coming up on the dreaded 4-month mark – the point where ALL of her relationships seem to fail. She is just not ready to deal with it all over again. Wes assures her that he will get her through it again if needed. - trying to find something that last longer than 4 months.
Harper is at the game with Wes and puppies sitting next to the #2 goalie on his jump seat. She catches Aiden’s eye, and he starts to interact with the puppy and her. Little does he know that she is the realtor that he has been avoiding. Felix notices this interaction and puts her and Wes on the list for visitors after the game. Felix does the introductions, and they share a long handshake, and they eat each other up with their eyes - delicious tension!
Aiden starts to go on house viewing appointments with Harper and they share some hilarious moments but also a life-altering one. Harper catches Crispin in the kitchen of a home in a very very compromising position with Raquel. I have to say that the way Erin wrote this scene was so good – the way Harper hurls insults at Crispin is beautiful. And then Aiden gives her a couple of more to shout at him.
Harper ends up on a drunken bender because of this breakup with Wes and Aiden. Wes tells him how to take care of her post breakup. She is going to need food, TV and motivational quotes and Wes is going to be so busy that if Aiden could help with that, he would greatly appreciate it.
This starts their relationship on a path of sweet texts and fun little dates where they start to learn more about each other.
The way their relationship develops and the way they learn to trust each other is amazing, sweet, and heartwarming. This part of the book had me reading it so fast because I needed to watch them grow. The third act break up both frustrated me and shattered my heart but it was put back together in the most beautiful way. Their happily ever after was so deserving.
There is bonus content that is hilarious, spicy, and sets us up for the next 5 books in the series.
This is a MUST MUST read! It has everything – hot hockey guys, a sassy FMC, a touching love story, and a wonderful found family.
Enjoy reading - Peace ☮️ and Love ❤️ my friends!!
Thank you to Erin Marie Bassettand Good Girls PR for the e-ARC opportunity.
First, the playlist provided for this book was STELLAR!!! I am a sucker for a playlist that accompanies the book because it helps set the mood for me.
This book is the first book in a series of 6 books following 6 hockey players with the DC Renegades. Let me tell you, I will be anxiously waiting for each one of them. The characters in this book are so lovable and sexy and humorous. Unfortunately, I will have to wait until the last book for my favorite character, but I can be patient.
One more general note, I LOVE LOVE LOVE hockey romance books. I devour them from any and all authors. This series is going to be a favorite series of mine. Ms. Bassett does an excellent job of building the found family of the DC Renegades and their WAGs. She has created all the pieces that are needed for the 6 book series.
The book opens with our MMC Aiden Youngren getting acclimated to the DC area and his new team. He is going the Renegades as the 2nd string goalie. Aiden has been traded for the 8th time in 5 years. As he enters the locker room for the first time, Captain Felix leads the team in a nickname naming ceremony for their newest member, they have dubbed him “Young Gun”.
Felix wants to help Aiden transition easily to his new team and his new town, so he calls on his friend and real estate agent, our FMC, Harper Daniels to help find Aiden a place to leave. Felix has a feeling Aiden is a huge flight risk and hopes that if he has a home, he will stay put in DC.
We get to meet our FMC, Harper, while she is at her office. I was a little frustrated with Harper in the beginning of this book, she seemed very resigned to letting everyone walk all over her including her goober of a boyfriend, Crispin (what’s with that name – it just makes you hate him already – well done!) Harper is either blind or chooses not to see the suspicious behavior that Crispin has with his assistant Raquel.
Aiden keeps putting Felix off about meeting Harper and looking for a place to live. Aiden is very eco-conscious (love that – have not read that in a hockey romance before) and doesn’t want to give up the easy bike ride to the facility.
The first regular season game is upon the team and Harper has come to the game with her wingman, Wes. Harper is lamenting to Wes that she thinks something isn’t connecting with Crispin and the fact that she is coming up on the dreaded 4-month mark – the point where ALL of her relationships seem to fail. She is just not ready to deal with it all over again. Wes assures her that he will get her through it again if needed. - trying to find something that last longer than 4 months.
Harper is at the game with Wes and puppies sitting next to the #2 goalie on his jump seat. She catches Aiden’s eye, and he starts to interact with the puppy and her. Little does he know that she is the realtor that he has been avoiding. Felix notices this interaction and puts her and Wes on the list for visitors after the game. Felix does the introductions, and they share a long handshake, and they eat each other up with their eyes - delicious tension!
Aiden starts to go on house viewing appointments with Harper and they share some hilarious moments but also a life-altering one. Harper catches Crispin in the kitchen of a home in a very very compromising position with Raquel. I have to say that the way Erin wrote this scene was so good – the way Harper hurls insults at Crispin is beautiful. And then Aiden gives her a couple of more to shout at him.
Harper ends up on a drunken bender because of this breakup with Wes and Aiden. Wes tells him how to take care of her post breakup. She is going to need food, TV and motivational quotes and Wes is going to be so busy that if Aiden could help with that, he would greatly appreciate it.
This starts their relationship on a path of sweet texts and fun little dates where they start to learn more about each other.
The way their relationship develops and the way they learn to trust each other is amazing, sweet, and heartwarming. This part of the book had me reading it so fast because I needed to watch them grow. The third act break up both frustrated me and shattered my heart but it was put back together in the most beautiful way. Their happily ever after was so deserving.
There is bonus content that is hilarious, spicy, and sets us up for the next 5 books in the series.
This is a MUST MUST read! It has everything – hot hockey guys, a sassy FMC, a touching love story, and a wonderful found family.
Enjoy reading - Peace ☮️ and Love ❤️ my friends!!
Thank you to Erin Marie Bassettand Good Girls PR for the e-ARC opportunity.
February 7, 2025
I absolutely adore Erin’s books and this one was no different. Unmasking Love is a feel-good hockey romance with lots of laughs and some delightfully spicy scenes. It focuses on the story of Aiden, backup goalie for the DC Renegades, and Harper, girl boss real estate agent. It was also so fun to see more of Felix, Captain of the Renegades, after getting to know him in The Thorne at my Side (also an AMAZING book, so definitely read that!).
Aiden has been traded numerous times in the NHL and has stayed a backup goalie. Tired of moving around and not knowing his own value, he puts little effort into team building and creating friendships. But this team is a little different - they’re all about camaraderie and they won’t let Aiden be the outlier. Felix contacts Harper with the aim of finding him a house close by, so he can keep an eye on him, but ultimately help him lay down some roots and convince him to stay and be a part of the team. Naturally, the pair immediately connect, but Harper is seeing someone, and Aiden is hesitant to create any attachments… That is, until they walk into a showing of a home that Harper set up to find her boyfriend with his pants down and caught in a sticky situation with his PA 👀
Aiden jumps into green flag guy mode and becomes the ultimate golden retriever/book boyfriend of our dreams, and it made me so happy every time I read the things he would do for Harper. And when they finally admitted their feelings for one another, I was squealing with excitement. This is a real feel-good romance and it ticks all the boxes. It took me a little while to get into the writing, as this feels a little different to previous books I’ve read from this author. This book is written more from an internal dialogue and thoughts POV, which once I got onboard with I loved, but at first it struck me as a little childish - keep reading because I promise you that you will dive headfirst into it and not be able to put it down!
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC of this book - I absolutely adored it!
Aiden has been traded numerous times in the NHL and has stayed a backup goalie. Tired of moving around and not knowing his own value, he puts little effort into team building and creating friendships. But this team is a little different - they’re all about camaraderie and they won’t let Aiden be the outlier. Felix contacts Harper with the aim of finding him a house close by, so he can keep an eye on him, but ultimately help him lay down some roots and convince him to stay and be a part of the team. Naturally, the pair immediately connect, but Harper is seeing someone, and Aiden is hesitant to create any attachments… That is, until they walk into a showing of a home that Harper set up to find her boyfriend with his pants down and caught in a sticky situation with his PA 👀
Aiden jumps into green flag guy mode and becomes the ultimate golden retriever/book boyfriend of our dreams, and it made me so happy every time I read the things he would do for Harper. And when they finally admitted their feelings for one another, I was squealing with excitement. This is a real feel-good romance and it ticks all the boxes. It took me a little while to get into the writing, as this feels a little different to previous books I’ve read from this author. This book is written more from an internal dialogue and thoughts POV, which once I got onboard with I loved, but at first it struck me as a little childish - keep reading because I promise you that you will dive headfirst into it and not be able to put it down!
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC of this book - I absolutely adored it!
February 12, 2025
4.5 Stars
This book kinda grabbed right from the prologue. I love how the MMC broke the fourth wall. As soon as I read that, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. This was a cute, entertaining romance with very little angst. There’s a touch of a bumpy road, but only enough to keep the story moving. The characters are super lovable and the team in general just kind of makes you happy. This was such a sweet sports romance with relatable characters. This was a fast moving story and even though it’s a little longer, it isn’t out of the realm of possibility to finish reading this in a day or two. It’s such an entertaining book that it’s easy to get lost in its pages.
Aiden was such an adorable character. What I really appreciated about him is the fact that he is the back-up goalie that is often traded. With most of these sports romances, the MMC is the star player on the team. But with Aiden, we get someone who is used to being traded, used to being disposable, used to being the new guy that never has time in one place to make new friends or put down roots. He is the sweetest cinnamon roll boyfriend and when he and Harper get together, they have the most amazing chemistry. Harper is the exact kind of FMC that I adore. She is sassy and strong willed. She is accomplished and intelligent. But she has had horrible luck in the love department, so she isn’t very trusting in relationships. Both of these characters experience tremendous growth throughout this book and it was such a pleasure to read along with their journey.
This book had humor, sweetness, relatable characters, wonderful spicy times, and a story that was entertaining, catching my attention and holding on through the very end. This was a great hockey romance that flowed nicely and was witty and fun. I loved these characters, the main characters as well as the side characters. This is book one in the series and it set it up nicely for more entertaining books to be released in the future.
This book kinda grabbed right from the prologue. I love how the MMC broke the fourth wall. As soon as I read that, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. This was a cute, entertaining romance with very little angst. There’s a touch of a bumpy road, but only enough to keep the story moving. The characters are super lovable and the team in general just kind of makes you happy. This was such a sweet sports romance with relatable characters. This was a fast moving story and even though it’s a little longer, it isn’t out of the realm of possibility to finish reading this in a day or two. It’s such an entertaining book that it’s easy to get lost in its pages.
Aiden was such an adorable character. What I really appreciated about him is the fact that he is the back-up goalie that is often traded. With most of these sports romances, the MMC is the star player on the team. But with Aiden, we get someone who is used to being traded, used to being disposable, used to being the new guy that never has time in one place to make new friends or put down roots. He is the sweetest cinnamon roll boyfriend and when he and Harper get together, they have the most amazing chemistry. Harper is the exact kind of FMC that I adore. She is sassy and strong willed. She is accomplished and intelligent. But she has had horrible luck in the love department, so she isn’t very trusting in relationships. Both of these characters experience tremendous growth throughout this book and it was such a pleasure to read along with their journey.
This book had humor, sweetness, relatable characters, wonderful spicy times, and a story that was entertaining, catching my attention and holding on through the very end. This was a great hockey romance that flowed nicely and was witty and fun. I loved these characters, the main characters as well as the side characters. This is book one in the series and it set it up nicely for more entertaining books to be released in the future.
February 4, 2025
Unmasking Love by Erin Marie Bassett is the first book in a new hockey series, and while it took me a little while to get into, it ultimately won me over. The first half of the book felt heavy on setting up the characters’ backgrounds and emotions, and I honestly found myself wondering how the author would keep me engaged in the second half. But once the story picked up pace, I was hooked.
What sets Unmasking Love apart from other hockey romances is how different the dynamic is between the two leads. The relationship between Aiden and Harper felt more emotionally grounded compared to the typical testosterone-fueled, action-heavy romances I’m used to in this genre. There’s still some spice, of course, but the focus here is on real emotional connection and understanding between the characters.
The story revolves around Aiden, a hockey player who’s more of a teddy bear than a tough guy, and Harper, a driven luxury real estate agent. I instantly fell for Aiden—he’s caring, thoughtful, and genuinely invests in Harper’s life and well-being. Unlike many hockey heroes who are obsessed with their sport, Aiden is refreshingly willing to make room for Harper in his world. As for Harper, she's fiercely career-focused and determined to get the job done, even though Aiden is considered a “flight risk” by his team due to his constant trades. Both characters have their own baggage when it comes to relationships—Harper with past partners and Aiden with teammates and moving from city to city—but the way they help each other navigate those struggles made their journey so rewarding to read.
I’m definitely curious about where this series will go next and am excited to pick up book 2. Overall, Unmasking Love offers a refreshing take on the hockey romance genre, with two sympathetic leads who feel real and relatable.
What sets Unmasking Love apart from other hockey romances is how different the dynamic is between the two leads. The relationship between Aiden and Harper felt more emotionally grounded compared to the typical testosterone-fueled, action-heavy romances I’m used to in this genre. There’s still some spice, of course, but the focus here is on real emotional connection and understanding between the characters.
The story revolves around Aiden, a hockey player who’s more of a teddy bear than a tough guy, and Harper, a driven luxury real estate agent. I instantly fell for Aiden—he’s caring, thoughtful, and genuinely invests in Harper’s life and well-being. Unlike many hockey heroes who are obsessed with their sport, Aiden is refreshingly willing to make room for Harper in his world. As for Harper, she's fiercely career-focused and determined to get the job done, even though Aiden is considered a “flight risk” by his team due to his constant trades. Both characters have their own baggage when it comes to relationships—Harper with past partners and Aiden with teammates and moving from city to city—but the way they help each other navigate those struggles made their journey so rewarding to read.
I’m definitely curious about where this series will go next and am excited to pick up book 2. Overall, Unmasking Love offers a refreshing take on the hockey romance genre, with two sympathetic leads who feel real and relatable.
February 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
New to me author Erin Marie Bassett, just added to my love of hockey romances. Book one in the DC Renegades series, I can’t wait to read more about this team and their relationships. I fully enjoyed Erin’s writing style, ability to draw the reader into the story, the character development throughout the book, and witty banter dialogue make this a fun read, but layered that keeps you intrigued until the very end.
I have to speak to the character the entire hockey team plays in this book. Although individual members, who I am excited to read more about in future books, the team as a whole creates such a dynamic that you can tell these men are a family. Every family comes with their own drama, but this team cares for each other and wants happiness for them all. I loved the complexity of the team as a whole throughout this book!
It is because of the team that Aiden and Harper meet in the first place. Aiden is in need of a residency and Harper is a successful luxury realtor. From their very first introduction, the chemistry was obvious. Both struggle with opening their hearts fully and fully trusting a relationship. As they opened up to each other and allowed walls to be broken down and trust to be built, I loved watching their relationship flourish!
Erin wrote a dynamic, complex, enjoyable novel that definitely has me invested in the DC Renegades. Her MCs and side characters are equally vital to the progression of the story, with foreshadowing that I can’t wait to see come to fruition. I am truly looking forward to the next five books in this interconnected series and reading more of Erin works.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🏒Hockey Romance
💚Instant Attraction
🏒Team Group Text
💚He Steals Her Intimates
🏒Dance With Me
💚Bathroom Hookup
New to me author Erin Marie Bassett, just added to my love of hockey romances. Book one in the DC Renegades series, I can’t wait to read more about this team and their relationships. I fully enjoyed Erin’s writing style, ability to draw the reader into the story, the character development throughout the book, and witty banter dialogue make this a fun read, but layered that keeps you intrigued until the very end.
I have to speak to the character the entire hockey team plays in this book. Although individual members, who I am excited to read more about in future books, the team as a whole creates such a dynamic that you can tell these men are a family. Every family comes with their own drama, but this team cares for each other and wants happiness for them all. I loved the complexity of the team as a whole throughout this book!
It is because of the team that Aiden and Harper meet in the first place. Aiden is in need of a residency and Harper is a successful luxury realtor. From their very first introduction, the chemistry was obvious. Both struggle with opening their hearts fully and fully trusting a relationship. As they opened up to each other and allowed walls to be broken down and trust to be built, I loved watching their relationship flourish!
Erin wrote a dynamic, complex, enjoyable novel that definitely has me invested in the DC Renegades. Her MCs and side characters are equally vital to the progression of the story, with foreshadowing that I can’t wait to see come to fruition. I am truly looking forward to the next five books in this interconnected series and reading more of Erin works.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🏒Hockey Romance
💚Instant Attraction
🏒Team Group Text
💚He Steals Her Intimates
🏒Dance With Me
💚Bathroom Hookup
March 16, 2025
Spice Level: ❤️🔥
Stars: ⭐⭐
I was excited to pick up ‘Unmasking Love’ by Erin Marie Bassett. This book sounded like there was a lot of heart and character development throughout the story. At first I was really enjoying the story and learning about Harper and Aiden. But then once I stopped enjoying it I found other things that were not enjoyable and just ended up skipping over.
At the start of ‘Unmasking Love’ you really get to know the background to Aiden and Harper. This is actually really great information to have as the past has really affected both of them in how they manage and deal with life and situations they are put in. But Harper doesn’t seem to learn or move on so well from her issues and they happen over and over again. Towards halfway and three quarters of the way through the book I felt like I was just on a hamster wheel and reading the same thing over.
The other thing I felt was a bit too much was the spice scenes. I am all for spice in a book but I like it when the spice is meant to help improve the story and move it along. I felt like these were not in there to do that and there were a lot of them. I felt like well over half the book was just spice and when I got over half way through the book I actually just ended up passing over the scenes because I was like oh great here we go again.
As much as I wanted to like ‘Unmasking Love’ it just ended up being an okay book for me. The book is getting 2 stars and on the Spice Level it’s a Burning Heart since over half of the book had spice scenes.
Now remember what I thought of the book might not be the same as what you all would think when reading the book. I am here to just say what I thought. If you are wanting to give ‘Unmasking Love’ a try it is part of Kindle Unlimited so if you are a member that means the book is included in your membership.
Stars: ⭐⭐
I was excited to pick up ‘Unmasking Love’ by Erin Marie Bassett. This book sounded like there was a lot of heart and character development throughout the story. At first I was really enjoying the story and learning about Harper and Aiden. But then once I stopped enjoying it I found other things that were not enjoyable and just ended up skipping over.
At the start of ‘Unmasking Love’ you really get to know the background to Aiden and Harper. This is actually really great information to have as the past has really affected both of them in how they manage and deal with life and situations they are put in. But Harper doesn’t seem to learn or move on so well from her issues and they happen over and over again. Towards halfway and three quarters of the way through the book I felt like I was just on a hamster wheel and reading the same thing over.
The other thing I felt was a bit too much was the spice scenes. I am all for spice in a book but I like it when the spice is meant to help improve the story and move it along. I felt like these were not in there to do that and there were a lot of them. I felt like well over half the book was just spice and when I got over half way through the book I actually just ended up passing over the scenes because I was like oh great here we go again.
As much as I wanted to like ‘Unmasking Love’ it just ended up being an okay book for me. The book is getting 2 stars and on the Spice Level it’s a Burning Heart since over half of the book had spice scenes.
Now remember what I thought of the book might not be the same as what you all would think when reading the book. I am here to just say what I thought. If you are wanting to give ‘Unmasking Love’ a try it is part of Kindle Unlimited so if you are a member that means the book is included in your membership.
January 19, 2025
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠: Unmasking Love
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: Erin Marie Bassett
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐/5
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
- Hockey Romance
- Found Family
- He falls first she falls harder
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- Contemporary Romance
Unmasking Love is a sweet, feel good, cutesy love story with very teeny bit of drama. The book also skims through the topic of heart and health issues.
The characters are quite relatable and MMC is a sweet cinnamon roll hockey player 😩
Aiden "Young Gun" Youngren is a new traded second string goalie for the DC Renegades who only has one thing in his mind and that is Hockey. He refused to get attached to his new team and their antics or anything related to his new team. But as he spends time with team he starts to realise that maybe there's more to life than just Hockey.
Harper Daniels is a real estate agent who is very well known by DC Renegades for finding homes for it's players. So when the new goalie shows up the responsibility falls upon her to make him settled in a good home, as the team captain ordered.
What seemingly looked like the communication for house listings between Harper and Aiden soon starts blooming into something much more a professional relationship as they finally gave into the chemistry that has been pulling them together. Their connection was instant but what I didn't like was teeny bit of miscommunication otherwise the book is really great. I enjoyed the whole book from the very start to the end.
So if you love a good sports romance with cinnamon roll mmc then this book is perfect for you!
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: Erin Marie Bassett
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐/5
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
- Hockey Romance
- Found Family
- He falls first she falls harder
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- Contemporary Romance
Unmasking Love is a sweet, feel good, cutesy love story with very teeny bit of drama. The book also skims through the topic of heart and health issues.
The characters are quite relatable and MMC is a sweet cinnamon roll hockey player 😩
Aiden "Young Gun" Youngren is a new traded second string goalie for the DC Renegades who only has one thing in his mind and that is Hockey. He refused to get attached to his new team and their antics or anything related to his new team. But as he spends time with team he starts to realise that maybe there's more to life than just Hockey.
Harper Daniels is a real estate agent who is very well known by DC Renegades for finding homes for it's players. So when the new goalie shows up the responsibility falls upon her to make him settled in a good home, as the team captain ordered.
What seemingly looked like the communication for house listings between Harper and Aiden soon starts blooming into something much more a professional relationship as they finally gave into the chemistry that has been pulling them together. Their connection was instant but what I didn't like was teeny bit of miscommunication otherwise the book is really great. I enjoyed the whole book from the very start to the end.
So if you love a good sports romance with cinnamon roll mmc then this book is perfect for you!
January 30, 2025
🏒ARC Review 🏒
Holy cow! I could not put this book down!
From the very first page I fell in love with Aiden. His attitude, the quiet, kind of broody back up goalie. To get to learn about his history and watch all of the puzzle pieces fall together was just perfect. I loved watching him grow from closed off “flight-risk” to the protective, goofy Doberman by the end of the book!
When Felix first mentioned Harper, I couldn’t wait to meet her. Man, she did not disappoint. Harper reminded me of your classic, feel-good, sunshine character. To learn that it was surface level and she also had a twisted history made her such a relatable character.
Another super fun character group I fell in love with were the “Big Guns”. The way they immediately welcomed Aiden into the group (in their own very special way) was too sweet. Their group chat messages had me actually laughing out loud as I was reading.
It was also so, so nice to have a book about a goalie. I’m a big hockey fan in real life, and goaltenders have a very special place in my heart. So to see one get to be center of attention was wonderful. Erin’s writing of the plays were great, I could easily picture the plays happening in my head.
This was such a fun read! I haven’t read a book that I didn’t need a break from in ages, and this was exactly that. (And now I’m itching for Bryson’s book in June).
P.S. The spice was very much spicing. 🥵🥵🥵
Holy cow! I could not put this book down!
From the very first page I fell in love with Aiden. His attitude, the quiet, kind of broody back up goalie. To get to learn about his history and watch all of the puzzle pieces fall together was just perfect. I loved watching him grow from closed off “flight-risk” to the protective, goofy Doberman by the end of the book!
When Felix first mentioned Harper, I couldn’t wait to meet her. Man, she did not disappoint. Harper reminded me of your classic, feel-good, sunshine character. To learn that it was surface level and she also had a twisted history made her such a relatable character.
Another super fun character group I fell in love with were the “Big Guns”. The way they immediately welcomed Aiden into the group (in their own very special way) was too sweet. Their group chat messages had me actually laughing out loud as I was reading.
It was also so, so nice to have a book about a goalie. I’m a big hockey fan in real life, and goaltenders have a very special place in my heart. So to see one get to be center of attention was wonderful. Erin’s writing of the plays were great, I could easily picture the plays happening in my head.
This was such a fun read! I haven’t read a book that I didn’t need a break from in ages, and this was exactly that. (And now I’m itching for Bryson’s book in June).
P.S. The spice was very much spicing. 🥵🥵🥵
February 8, 2025
Wow! I signed up to do an ARC read for Unmaking Love, and I am so glad I did! I am a sucker for a hockey romance, something about the alpha males on a hockey team just revs my engine. That said, I could barely put this book down! I had such a wonderful time getting to know Aiden and Harper! The whole hockey team had me laughing so hard all the way through the book! The character growth was very well written! And I can't say I found too many mistakes, which is saying something!
If you love a good rom-com, read this book!
If you love a great hockey romance, read this book!
If you love 'he falls first' tropes, read this book!
If you love goof-ball supporting characters, read this book!
If you love a golden retriever with a traumatic past and an alpha-possessive streak who knows want he wants, read this book!
If you love to see solid character growth in both main characters, read this book!
If you love a good balance between sweetness, spicy-ness, and drama, read this book!
If you love a sweetheart heroine that learns self-worth through the help of her man, read this book!
If you love a heroine with a great sense of humor and silly insults, read this book!
I seriously cannot recommend this book enough y'all! It's so good! And the spice...woof! It's definitely not a slow-burn if you catch my drift! The scenes are soooooo good! Aiden is definitely one of my all time favorite book boyfriends!
If you love a good rom-com, read this book!
If you love a great hockey romance, read this book!
If you love 'he falls first' tropes, read this book!
If you love goof-ball supporting characters, read this book!
If you love a golden retriever with a traumatic past and an alpha-possessive streak who knows want he wants, read this book!
If you love to see solid character growth in both main characters, read this book!
If you love a good balance between sweetness, spicy-ness, and drama, read this book!
If you love a sweetheart heroine that learns self-worth through the help of her man, read this book!
If you love a heroine with a great sense of humor and silly insults, read this book!
I seriously cannot recommend this book enough y'all! It's so good! And the spice...woof! It's definitely not a slow-burn if you catch my drift! The scenes are soooooo good! Aiden is definitely one of my all time favorite book boyfriends!
February 11, 2025
This is book 1 in the D. C. Renegades series. Each book will be an interconnected standalone that will follow a different couple. I highly suggest starting at the beginning...not only because it is an absolutely amazing read but, you will get a feel for the team and all the antics they get up too. This was my first read by Erin and it definitely will not be my last.
-Hockey Romance
-Guarded hearts
-Hilarious banter
-Team Antics & Bonding
-Slow Burn
I devoured this book in a day. The hockey aspect was spot on, the team banter and text messages gave me life and the romance was oh so sweet plus you have Aiden who is the most amazing book boyfriend that you just want to read more about. Aiden is a 2nd string hockey goalie. He has been traded numerous times so he doesn't get close to those he plays with...until he moves to DC. The team is more like a family and they treat him that way from their first meet. Felix, the team captain introduces Aiden to Harper who is a real estate agent helping him find a more permanent residence. They both have an immediate connection but both are so guarded. Can they move beyond their fears or will they destroy what could be the love of a lifetime.
If you love hockey romances...this book is phenomenal and I highly recommend it. I didn't want it to end. I was laughing through most of the book...the team is seriously hilarious and the nickname ceremony had me rolling. I cannot wait to continue with this series. Thank you Erin for writing an amazing story to get lost in.
-Hockey Romance
-Guarded hearts
-Hilarious banter
-Team Antics & Bonding
-Slow Burn
I devoured this book in a day. The hockey aspect was spot on, the team banter and text messages gave me life and the romance was oh so sweet plus you have Aiden who is the most amazing book boyfriend that you just want to read more about. Aiden is a 2nd string hockey goalie. He has been traded numerous times so he doesn't get close to those he plays with...until he moves to DC. The team is more like a family and they treat him that way from their first meet. Felix, the team captain introduces Aiden to Harper who is a real estate agent helping him find a more permanent residence. They both have an immediate connection but both are so guarded. Can they move beyond their fears or will they destroy what could be the love of a lifetime.
If you love hockey romances...this book is phenomenal and I highly recommend it. I didn't want it to end. I was laughing through most of the book...the team is seriously hilarious and the nickname ceremony had me rolling. I cannot wait to continue with this series. Thank you Erin for writing an amazing story to get lost in.
February 11, 2025
If Erin writes it, I am absolutely going to read it. And this was the PERFECT story for my current hockey romance obsession. I am very excited for this hockey series as a whole and this was the best kickoff.
This story was about love and how it can conquer all. I felt like Harper and Aiden truly deserved each other. They worked so hard to be together, and through it all, they grew so much. This was a story about healing and growth and they both did so much of that.
The writing is EXCELLENT! The plot is Magnificent. The characters are TOP TIER! A bunch of respectful hockey men who have a brotherly bond? Who engages in just pure fun with one another. And the GROUP CHAT! Erin you have done it again.
Harper is such a relatable character. Her backstory, her fears, her goals are all so very real and I felt connected to her. Even though she was her own worst enemy, Aiden gave her the confidence to be herself. Aiden is 1000% Man of the year. He not only became an amazing partner to Harper, but he also was a great teammate. He learned to love them and appreciate them even though he didn’t think he could.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS READ! I loved everything about this story. There truly wasn’t a single thing that I did not enjoy. I adored every moment and can’t wait for the next story!!!
Thank you Erin for another wonderful story! You always capture a beautiful moment and run with it. And thank you Bookish Bubbly for letting me be a part of this read!
This story was about love and how it can conquer all. I felt like Harper and Aiden truly deserved each other. They worked so hard to be together, and through it all, they grew so much. This was a story about healing and growth and they both did so much of that.
The writing is EXCELLENT! The plot is Magnificent. The characters are TOP TIER! A bunch of respectful hockey men who have a brotherly bond? Who engages in just pure fun with one another. And the GROUP CHAT! Erin you have done it again.
Harper is such a relatable character. Her backstory, her fears, her goals are all so very real and I felt connected to her. Even though she was her own worst enemy, Aiden gave her the confidence to be herself. Aiden is 1000% Man of the year. He not only became an amazing partner to Harper, but he also was a great teammate. He learned to love them and appreciate them even though he didn’t think he could.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS READ! I loved everything about this story. There truly wasn’t a single thing that I did not enjoy. I adored every moment and can’t wait for the next story!!!
Thank you Erin for another wonderful story! You always capture a beautiful moment and run with it. And thank you Bookish Bubbly for letting me be a part of this read!
February 22, 2025
Tropes:
-hockey romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-banter
-he falls first
-instant attraction
-found family
-roommates
-team group text with lots of banter
-dual POV
This is my second book by Erin, and I can officially say she is now a “must-read” author. I love the comedic relief she brings to her writing; her books make me feel a wide range of emotions. The spice is incredible, and the side characters add so much depth to the story. I want more from this couple and the team. I adored this book.
Aiden has been traded so often that he refuses to set down roots. He tends to close himself off and doesn’t bond with his teammates. He avoids genuine relationships and isn't interested in finding a permanent home. However, when he arrives in the locker room in DC, he is made to feel like family.
Then, he meets Harper, and everything changes.
Harper has had no luck with relationships and constantly questions what she might be doing wrong to drive away her boyfriends. She carries baggage from her past, making her doubt herself at every turn. When she meets Aiden, their attraction is instant, and she opens up more than ever before.
I highly recommend this book. I devoured it. It’s available on KU. I hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
Quotes:
Aiden: “What’s that sigh for babe?”
Harper: “I’m happy.”
Aiden: “Me too.”
You’re my heart, Harper Daniels. In the few months I’ve known you I have felt more like myself than I have in years. I have felt confident, comfortable, and like I belong.
-hockey romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-banter
-he falls first
-instant attraction
-found family
-roommates
-team group text with lots of banter
-dual POV
This is my second book by Erin, and I can officially say she is now a “must-read” author. I love the comedic relief she brings to her writing; her books make me feel a wide range of emotions. The spice is incredible, and the side characters add so much depth to the story. I want more from this couple and the team. I adored this book.
Aiden has been traded so often that he refuses to set down roots. He tends to close himself off and doesn’t bond with his teammates. He avoids genuine relationships and isn't interested in finding a permanent home. However, when he arrives in the locker room in DC, he is made to feel like family.
Then, he meets Harper, and everything changes.
Harper has had no luck with relationships and constantly questions what she might be doing wrong to drive away her boyfriends. She carries baggage from her past, making her doubt herself at every turn. When she meets Aiden, their attraction is instant, and she opens up more than ever before.
I highly recommend this book. I devoured it. It’s available on KU. I hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
Quotes:
Aiden: “What’s that sigh for babe?”
Harper: “I’m happy.”
Aiden: “Me too.”
You’re my heart, Harper Daniels. In the few months I’ve known you I have felt more like myself than I have in years. I have felt confident, comfortable, and like I belong.
February 12, 2025
4.5/5
This book was so cute. I had such a fun time reading it and it is definitely one of my favourite hockey romances. The pacing of the plot was excellent and I felt like the story flowed really well.
This book has a found family that will make you wish you had a huge friend group like the D.C Renegades to hang out with. Every time I would see the Big Guns group chat pop up on a page I knew I was about to laugh because those hockey players are some of the most chaotic and funny book men I’ve ever encountered. Felix and Wes were definitely my favourite side characters and made me wish I was friends with them.
Harper and Aiden were such a cute couple. I loved how Aiden would always reassure her whenever she started overthinking or apologized for something she didn’t need to apologize for. I loved the fact that they kinda just went at their own pace and trusted their instincts when it came to relationship milestones instead of “caving in” to the society’s “standard timeline”. I also love that they each had a huge character development on their own and were trying to be a better person for the other.
I had such a fun reading experience and I really recommend reading this ASAP!!!!
Thank you to the author for the E-ARC of this book <3
This book was so cute. I had such a fun time reading it and it is definitely one of my favourite hockey romances. The pacing of the plot was excellent and I felt like the story flowed really well.
This book has a found family that will make you wish you had a huge friend group like the D.C Renegades to hang out with. Every time I would see the Big Guns group chat pop up on a page I knew I was about to laugh because those hockey players are some of the most chaotic and funny book men I’ve ever encountered. Felix and Wes were definitely my favourite side characters and made me wish I was friends with them.
Harper and Aiden were such a cute couple. I loved how Aiden would always reassure her whenever she started overthinking or apologized for something she didn’t need to apologize for. I loved the fact that they kinda just went at their own pace and trusted their instincts when it came to relationship milestones instead of “caving in” to the society’s “standard timeline”. I also love that they each had a huge character development on their own and were trying to be a better person for the other.
I had such a fun reading experience and I really recommend reading this ASAP!!!!
Thank you to the author for the E-ARC of this book <3
February 21, 2025
If you want to laugh (really hard!), like very spicy scenes (SO much steam!) and hilarious hockey teammates that perform crazy antics while always having each others backs then this book is a definite read for you!!
The romance between Harper and Aiden is so, so sweet. I love the instant connection they make. He is so attentive to Harper all the time. Of course, the smallest actions are the most adorable, make such a difference for her and have Aiden falling into the swoony book boyfriend category.
Harper comes across confident in many areas of her life but love and relationships is not one of them. Her relationships do not to stick, often they end badly and she always questions what she did wrong to make the relationship end. She is controlled by her emotions and she overthinks love, relationships and even Aiden at one point. Aiden is very much the opposite of Harper and he is controlled by physical and mental routine. Together, they balance one another out.
Aiden’s teammates are best! They are hilarious, their text messages to one another are so good and their antics are insane. But it alls them them tight-knit and definitely good for Aiden and even Harper.
I loved this book and you should definitely add to your TBR pile 🥰
The romance between Harper and Aiden is so, so sweet. I love the instant connection they make. He is so attentive to Harper all the time. Of course, the smallest actions are the most adorable, make such a difference for her and have Aiden falling into the swoony book boyfriend category.
Harper comes across confident in many areas of her life but love and relationships is not one of them. Her relationships do not to stick, often they end badly and she always questions what she did wrong to make the relationship end. She is controlled by her emotions and she overthinks love, relationships and even Aiden at one point. Aiden is very much the opposite of Harper and he is controlled by physical and mental routine. Together, they balance one another out.
Aiden’s teammates are best! They are hilarious, their text messages to one another are so good and their antics are insane. But it alls them them tight-knit and definitely good for Aiden and even Harper.
I loved this book and you should definitely add to your TBR pile 🥰
May 5, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance- goalie
📱 Best team gc ever
🫦 Instant attraction
🫂 Growing as people together
Review:
Holy. This book was honestly amazing. It got me out of a months long slump, had me giggling and smiling like crazy, and even helped me out of my mental slump.
The characters were just so perfect and funny and so real. The insecurities they felt, the growth of their feelings for one another as well as individual growth was so rewarding to see.
Aiden was so thoughtful and understanding, he truly was like a safe space for Harper. Harper went through the most but still stood strong and resilient in spite of it. I'm so glad they found each other it honestly just warmed my heart.
The true highlight of the book was definitely the team group chat, especially Felix. He was honestly one of my favorites to see them interact with. He played a role in them meeting, and also helped Aiden feel welcomed and like he belonged. He found a family in that team, and I was honestly so happy he found that sense of belonging.
I would most certainly reccoemnd this books to anyone looking for a Hockey romance to have you swooning and giggling throughout. Thank you to goodgirls PR and Erin for the ARC 🫶🏽
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance- goalie
📱 Best team gc ever
🫦 Instant attraction
🫂 Growing as people together
Review:
Holy. This book was honestly amazing. It got me out of a months long slump, had me giggling and smiling like crazy, and even helped me out of my mental slump.
The characters were just so perfect and funny and so real. The insecurities they felt, the growth of their feelings for one another as well as individual growth was so rewarding to see.
Aiden was so thoughtful and understanding, he truly was like a safe space for Harper. Harper went through the most but still stood strong and resilient in spite of it. I'm so glad they found each other it honestly just warmed my heart.
The true highlight of the book was definitely the team group chat, especially Felix. He was honestly one of my favorites to see them interact with. He played a role in them meeting, and also helped Aiden feel welcomed and like he belonged. He found a family in that team, and I was honestly so happy he found that sense of belonging.
I would most certainly reccoemnd this books to anyone looking for a Hockey romance to have you swooning and giggling throughout. Thank you to goodgirls PR and Erin for the ARC 🫶🏽
January 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
3🌶️
Fun read ! There is something about those hockey romances ;) ! First off let me say the banter and the relationship of the team in this book was hilarious I loved this so much and it was part of my favourite moments in this book.
For me it was definitely a fast burn, the relationship itself moved very quickly. But it was lovely and fun! The spicy scenes were hot and happened pretty often.
As for the characters themselves I loved them all. Well expect for Crispin… lol. The team like I mentioned was amazing and hilarious.. Felix was 100% that hype man / caring bestie vibes. I loved him. Aiden the MMC the spare goalie that switches teams multiple times and gives no fucks. He was so caring, quiet and shy .. I did not expect him to come out of his safe bubble or how much of a freak in the sheets he would be LOL. Harper the FMC is the team real estate agent, sorta a pushover, insecure and an over thinker. She loves hard and wants the best for those who come into her presence she overthinks which doesn’t put her in the best situation. Two people with struggles pasts their found family and love at first sight brings them together.
I enjoyed this book a lot and was hooked from the start it was one of those books that was hard to put down :)
Thank you BBPR and Erin for the ARC! Can’t wait for book 2 !!
3🌶️
Fun read ! There is something about those hockey romances ;) ! First off let me say the banter and the relationship of the team in this book was hilarious I loved this so much and it was part of my favourite moments in this book.
For me it was definitely a fast burn, the relationship itself moved very quickly. But it was lovely and fun! The spicy scenes were hot and happened pretty often.
As for the characters themselves I loved them all. Well expect for Crispin… lol. The team like I mentioned was amazing and hilarious.. Felix was 100% that hype man / caring bestie vibes. I loved him. Aiden the MMC the spare goalie that switches teams multiple times and gives no fucks. He was so caring, quiet and shy .. I did not expect him to come out of his safe bubble or how much of a freak in the sheets he would be LOL. Harper the FMC is the team real estate agent, sorta a pushover, insecure and an over thinker. She loves hard and wants the best for those who come into her presence she overthinks which doesn’t put her in the best situation. Two people with struggles pasts their found family and love at first sight brings them together.
I enjoyed this book a lot and was hooked from the start it was one of those books that was hard to put down :)
Thank you BBPR and Erin for the ARC! Can’t wait for book 2 !!
February 12, 2025
Can two people with guarded hearts find their way to each other—and something real?
•
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
•
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
•
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
•
•
•
First, huge thank you to @good.girls.pr for the ARC of this title!
•
We all know how much I love a hockey romance and boyyyy did this one deliver. Aiden Youngren might be my new fave hockey book boyfriend ever. I SAID WHAT I SAID. The writing style during this book had me GIGGLING and Aiden is just 🥵🫦 I will absolutely be reading the rest of this series, ARCs or no.
•
Unmasked Love: 4 stars ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: sports romance, found family, lust at first sight, he falls first
•
NHL backup goalie Aiden Youngren is used to being the reliable second-stringer, bouncing from team to team. Joining the D.C. Renegades is just another stop on the line. He’s not getting attached—why bother when he’ll be gone in a few months?
•
Luxury real estate agent Harper Daniels is equally focused on her career. After a string of short-lived relationships, she continues dating but goes in with the end already in mind, and never allows a man to interfere with her work. So when team captain Felix Fornier refers her to Aiden, she’s determined to close the deal—even if her new client isn’t ready to commit.
•
A chance encounter changes everything. After Aiden witnesses Harper’s messy breakup, their worlds collide in unexpected ways. What starts as a tentative friendship blossoms into something deeper, but their personal histories, fears, and uncertain futures threaten to pull them apart.
•
•
•
First, huge thank you to @good.girls.pr for the ARC of this title!
•
We all know how much I love a hockey romance and boyyyy did this one deliver. Aiden Youngren might be my new fave hockey book boyfriend ever. I SAID WHAT I SAID. The writing style during this book had me GIGGLING and Aiden is just 🥵🫦 I will absolutely be reading the rest of this series, ARCs or no.
•
Unmasked Love: 4 stars ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: sports romance, found family, lust at first sight, he falls first
January 22, 2025
As I find myself in the middle of hockey season (and down the rabbit hole that is hockey romance) I was very excited to read Unmasking Love… AND IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT! I was a little hesitant with the main character to start; I do think some of her actions and comments were a little childish but I grew to love her.
Aiden is… mwah! *chefs kiss* I’m not sure is there is any better move in a hockey romance than a tough Scandinavian man!🥵🥵
I loved Harper and Aiden’s friendly chemistry and to see how it turned to romance. You can tell from their first meeting that they are meant for one another ! The slow approach to their romance made their chemistry less insta-love and more friends to lovers and I adored it!
The spicy scenes in this book were honestly some of the best I’ve read. They felt so real and tender!
I cannot wait to continue reading this series and being in the universe of the DC Renegades!
(I do agree with the authors husbands point in the foreword… locker room talk is NOT like this in real life😅)
Aiden is… mwah! *chefs kiss* I’m not sure is there is any better move in a hockey romance than a tough Scandinavian man!🥵🥵
I loved Harper and Aiden’s friendly chemistry and to see how it turned to romance. You can tell from their first meeting that they are meant for one another ! The slow approach to their romance made their chemistry less insta-love and more friends to lovers and I adored it!
The spicy scenes in this book were honestly some of the best I’ve read. They felt so real and tender!
I cannot wait to continue reading this series and being in the universe of the DC Renegades!
(I do agree with the authors husbands point in the foreword… locker room talk is NOT like this in real life😅)
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