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Rules #1
Breaking Rules
He is my boyfriend's new teammate and the guy I'm falling for.
When ISABELLA LAWSON’s high school sweetheart, Jake, reappears in her life, she doesn’t hesitate to say yes when he asks her to be his girlfriend. On the surface, the Boston City Warriors’ wide receiver is a catch, but Bella soon realizes he’s not the same guy she dated in high school. What if she made a mistake in choosing to trust him again?
ALEXANDER WALKER’s dream of joining the Warriors and moving back to his hometown has finally come true. He’s determined to prove himself worthy of the QB1 title, and winning the Super Bowl is exactly how he plans to achieve it. Unfortunately, signing the contract also means opening the gates to Xander’s personal hell. From the moment he returns, dark secrets start to surface.
Xander finds a friend in Bella, and he hopes his new teammate, Jake, has changed since college. That hope is extinguished when Bella shows up on his doorstep asking for help.
The longer Xander stays by Bella’s side, the harder it is to keep his distance. He has never been one to follow the rules, and Bella is the fire that lights up his darkness. Playing with fire has never been more attractive, but this time, the flames might burn him.
-
Breaking Rules is an angsty forbidden sports romance. The book one of Rules Duet and cannot be read as a standalone.
When ISABELLA LAWSON’s high school sweetheart, Jake, reappears in her life, she doesn’t hesitate to say yes when he asks her to be his girlfriend. On the surface, the Boston City Warriors’ wide receiver is a catch, but Bella soon realizes he’s not the same guy she dated in high school. What if she made a mistake in choosing to trust him again?
ALEXANDER WALKER’s dream of joining the Warriors and moving back to his hometown has finally come true. He’s determined to prove himself worthy of the QB1 title, and winning the Super Bowl is exactly how he plans to achieve it. Unfortunately, signing the contract also means opening the gates to Xander’s personal hell. From the moment he returns, dark secrets start to surface.
Xander finds a friend in Bella, and he hopes his new teammate, Jake, has changed since college. That hope is extinguished when Bella shows up on his doorstep asking for help.
The longer Xander stays by Bella’s side, the harder it is to keep his distance. He has never been one to follow the rules, and Bella is the fire that lights up his darkness. Playing with fire has never been more attractive, but this time, the flames might burn him.
-
Breaking Rules is an angsty forbidden sports romance. The book one of Rules Duet and cannot be read as a standalone.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2025
392 people are currently reading
2549 people want to read
About the author
Anastasija White
10 books990 followersAnastasija is an indie author who spends her days creating swoon-worthy and steamy stories that will make your heart race. Her writing is filled with flawed and relatable characters that you'll find yourself rooting for. Whether you're in the mood for angsty drama or steamy romance, her stories take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with guaranteed happy endings.
When she's not writing, she loves to lose herself in reading books, rewatching her favorite tv-shows and spending time with her son. She loves traveling and exploring the world, and then including places she visited in her novels.
If you're a fan of romance that leaves you breathless and begging for more, Anastasija is the author for you. Connect with her on Instagram and TikTok, where she loves to hear from her readers and share sneak peeks of her books and upcoming projects.
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When she's not writing, she loves to lose herself in reading books, rewatching her favorite tv-shows and spending time with her son. She loves traveling and exploring the world, and then including places she visited in her novels.
If you're a fan of romance that leaves you breathless and begging for more, Anastasija is the author for you. Connect with her on Instagram and TikTok, where she loves to hear from her readers and share sneak peeks of her books and upcoming projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 427 reviews
June 16, 2025
DNF @ 38%
i could no longer stand waiting for the doormat, dud of a FMC to leave her emotionally abusive boyfriend (not the MMC) who was OBVIOUSLY cheating on her… reading ~135 pages of her misery was enough
i could no longer stand waiting for the doormat, dud of a FMC to leave her emotionally abusive boyfriend (not the MMC) who was OBVIOUSLY cheating on her… reading ~135 pages of her misery was enough
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
Breaking Rules brings the heat both on and off the field! If you love football, found family vibes, and a heroine who finally starts trusting herself, you’re in for a treat. Bella’s journey had me flipping pages like my Kindle owed me money.
Let’s talk about Xander: broody, loyal, and just the right amount of chaotic good. He’s the kind of guy who shows up when it counts—even if it means going toe-to-toe with a few demons (and teammates 👀). And the tension? WHEW. You could cut it with a helmet visor.
Without giving anything away, just know this: if you’re into slow-burn angst, secret hurts, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes you squeal into your blanket at 2AM… this one delivers.
🏈💔 No spoilers, just vibes. Go in blind. Trust me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: Slow build but worth it
Trope Vibes: Second chance (but not how you think), forced proximity, sports romance, morally gray boy with a heart of gold
Let’s talk about Xander: broody, loyal, and just the right amount of chaotic good. He’s the kind of guy who shows up when it counts—even if it means going toe-to-toe with a few demons (and teammates 👀). And the tension? WHEW. You could cut it with a helmet visor.
Without giving anything away, just know this: if you’re into slow-burn angst, secret hurts, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes you squeal into your blanket at 2AM… this one delivers.
🏈💔 No spoilers, just vibes. Go in blind. Trust me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: Slow build but worth it
Trope Vibes: Second chance (but not how you think), forced proximity, sports romance, morally gray boy with a heart of gold
May 18, 2025
Truly this book was everything! The angst, the drama and sexual chemistry was next level and the way it was written considering the heavy topics was so beautifully done. Breaking Rules features Bella and Xander, Xander is a teammate of Bella’s current boyfriend and their attraction is instant. Bella and Xander both have a past and Bella her background is heartbreaking. This book does have some heavy topics like mental, physical and sexual abuse and parental neglect. This is book one and the story continues as we are left on a cliffhanger which I am patiently waiting for. I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I received a complementary copy from Grey’s Promotion and the author.
May 31, 2025
It was a cringe fest I’m sorry lol I really like this author but this book didn’t work for me
May 31, 2025
#Review: *Breaking Rules* - Anastasija White - ARC [18+]
5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I got the awesome opportunity to be part of Anastasija's ARC team for this book and I can say that I was pretty lucky, because I looved this story, so, so much! Thank you Anastasija and Greys Promotions for accepting me for this book🩵.
Isabella (Bella) was in a toxic relationship with Jack, a football player with whom she already break up once. Isabella ended things the 1st a while back, but when they saw each other again, they felt like they needed to give their love a second chance. But things got only worse for Bella, who already had a big trauma from her past. The effects of it were still very visible in the relationship she had with Jack, from who she accepted every bad thing he was doing and ignored all the red flags he kept on showing.
In Bella's life appeared a brand new face, in Alexander's person, an old friend of Jack's and a new transfer of the team where he was playing. But Xander had so many scars to hide, having an unhealed soul. That involved Jack, having some unfinished business with him and some which he wanted to get revenge for. But his plans will completely change when someone will irrevocably steal his heart.
Ahhh, this story was such a soul consuming, hitting the right spots for me. It had so many angst, which I always adore, mixed with uncertainty and unhealthy relationships. Bella hasn't realized the toxic situation she was in with Jake before meeting the swoony Xander. He was the player bad boy who was cocky enough to flirt right in front of Jack, without any remorse, knowing the type of person he was. My heart broken when I found out all the things Bella had to endure in the past and in the present, knowing that she didn't have anyone in her corner. But that wasn't the case anymore, because if she wanted or not, Xander will turn her world upsidedown and will show her how many things she was missing. But can she escape her old life with possessive Jack?
This book is part of a duet and it ended with a big cliffhanger, leaving me with sooo many questions! Now I really need to find out what happened, the things that led to that situation from the end. I cannot wait to read the next book, to unravel the unknown which appeared at the end of this 1st book.
✨Tropes
#ForbiddenRomance
#SecretRomance
#ToxicRelationship
#ReformedPlayboy
#TeammatesGirlfriend
#DarkSecrets
#FriendsToLovers
#ForcedProximity
#Angsty
#TragicPast
#Revenge
#SportsRomance
#Football
5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I got the awesome opportunity to be part of Anastasija's ARC team for this book and I can say that I was pretty lucky, because I looved this story, so, so much! Thank you Anastasija and Greys Promotions for accepting me for this book🩵.
Isabella (Bella) was in a toxic relationship with Jack, a football player with whom she already break up once. Isabella ended things the 1st a while back, but when they saw each other again, they felt like they needed to give their love a second chance. But things got only worse for Bella, who already had a big trauma from her past. The effects of it were still very visible in the relationship she had with Jack, from who she accepted every bad thing he was doing and ignored all the red flags he kept on showing.
In Bella's life appeared a brand new face, in Alexander's person, an old friend of Jack's and a new transfer of the team where he was playing. But Xander had so many scars to hide, having an unhealed soul. That involved Jack, having some unfinished business with him and some which he wanted to get revenge for. But his plans will completely change when someone will irrevocably steal his heart.
Ahhh, this story was such a soul consuming, hitting the right spots for me. It had so many angst, which I always adore, mixed with uncertainty and unhealthy relationships. Bella hasn't realized the toxic situation she was in with Jake before meeting the swoony Xander. He was the player bad boy who was cocky enough to flirt right in front of Jack, without any remorse, knowing the type of person he was. My heart broken when I found out all the things Bella had to endure in the past and in the present, knowing that she didn't have anyone in her corner. But that wasn't the case anymore, because if she wanted or not, Xander will turn her world upsidedown and will show her how many things she was missing. But can she escape her old life with possessive Jack?
This book is part of a duet and it ended with a big cliffhanger, leaving me with sooo many questions! Now I really need to find out what happened, the things that led to that situation from the end. I cannot wait to read the next book, to unravel the unknown which appeared at the end of this 1st book.
✨Tropes
#ForbiddenRomance
#SecretRomance
#ToxicRelationship
#ReformedPlayboy
#TeammatesGirlfriend
#DarkSecrets
#FriendsToLovers
#ForcedProximity
#Angsty
#TragicPast
#Revenge
#SportsRomance
#Football
May 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
🗓️ release Day: 05.28.2025
📚 Book # 1 of the "Rules" Duet
⺁ Ends on a Cliffhanger IN THE EPILOGUE 🤯
Anastasija is a new to me author, and im so glad that I read the tropes and said sold without a blurb or anything cause I would have normally passed on a Football romance just cause thats not a sport im into. While I cannot say that I am now a football trope fan, I can say that ill be stepping out of my comfort zone more because this book was SOLID.
On my darkness scale [which is morally corrupt and leans heavily towards pitch black with no qualms 🤷♀️] I would say that this could be a mid gray. There are definitely heavy subject matters that are addressed so please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading this book.
Bella is a very complex character, while she has been beaten down to be subservient and meek, there is still fire in her that shines through, particularly when dealing with Xander. She makes the decisions that she does because of her past and not knowing her worth. Its incredibly frustrating from an outside perspective but, as long as you keep the abuse she has endured in mind, it makes the decisions more solid.
Xander/Alex/Alexander, the man of many names depending on the people that are around him...sheesh, I am here for it. He's not what I would consider a golden retriever, more like a German Shepherd. He's incredibly loyal to Bella, and will bite anyone that tries to harm her. Defiantly very protective, but in a way that doesnt suffocate her [even though I wish he would have stepped in just a bit more on her stupid decisions]. While he's no saint, he was honest with her and explained the secret he had been keeping and he truly was her rock.
Jake...Nope, im not even going to give him page time...absolutely needs to be un-alived asap.
Also on my shit list, close second to Jack is Xanders sister Audrey...I didnt like her from the first interaction we get with her [All the mean girl vibes]. I dont know exactly wtf she did to Xander & Bella at the end but whatever it is, immediate ☠️. We are left on a cliffhanger in the epilogue that happens almost a year and a half later after the Super Bowl and it absolutely blew my damn mind and came out of left field cause WHAT ARE YOU EVEN SAYING ?!?!? I need book 2 like immediately now, cause I need to know what caused this mess!!!
Solid book, triggers, and a good amount of spice....I loved this book!
Tropes:
🖤 Forbidden Love
🏈 Teammate’s Girlfriend
🖤 Dark Secrets
🏈 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Friends to Lovers
🏈 Forced Proximity
🖤 Protective Hero
🏈 Tragic Past
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
🗓️ release Day: 05.28.2025
📚 Book # 1 of the "Rules" Duet
⺁ Ends on a Cliffhanger IN THE EPILOGUE 🤯
Anastasija is a new to me author, and im so glad that I read the tropes and said sold without a blurb or anything cause I would have normally passed on a Football romance just cause thats not a sport im into. While I cannot say that I am now a football trope fan, I can say that ill be stepping out of my comfort zone more because this book was SOLID.
On my darkness scale [which is morally corrupt and leans heavily towards pitch black with no qualms 🤷♀️] I would say that this could be a mid gray. There are definitely heavy subject matters that are addressed so please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading this book.
Bella is a very complex character, while she has been beaten down to be subservient and meek, there is still fire in her that shines through, particularly when dealing with Xander. She makes the decisions that she does because of her past and not knowing her worth. Its incredibly frustrating from an outside perspective but, as long as you keep the abuse she has endured in mind, it makes the decisions more solid.
Xander/Alex/Alexander, the man of many names depending on the people that are around him...sheesh, I am here for it. He's not what I would consider a golden retriever, more like a German Shepherd. He's incredibly loyal to Bella, and will bite anyone that tries to harm her. Defiantly very protective, but in a way that doesnt suffocate her [even though I wish he would have stepped in just a bit more on her stupid decisions]. While he's no saint, he was honest with her and explained the secret he had been keeping and he truly was her rock.
Jake...Nope, im not even going to give him page time...absolutely needs to be un-alived asap.
Also on my shit list, close second to Jack is Xanders sister Audrey...I didnt like her from the first interaction we get with her [All the mean girl vibes]. I dont know exactly wtf she did to Xander & Bella at the end but whatever it is, immediate ☠️. We are left on a cliffhanger in the epilogue that happens almost a year and a half later after the Super Bowl and it absolutely blew my damn mind and came out of left field cause WHAT ARE YOU EVEN SAYING ?!?!? I need book 2 like immediately now, cause I need to know what caused this mess!!!
Solid book, triggers, and a good amount of spice....I loved this book!
Tropes:
🖤 Forbidden Love
🏈 Teammate’s Girlfriend
🖤 Dark Secrets
🏈 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Friends to Lovers
🏈 Forced Proximity
🖤 Protective Hero
🏈 Tragic Past
May 25, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Breaking Rules
By Anastasija White
“She’s even more stunning than I expected. In college, Miller always went on about how gorgeous she was, but words don’t really do her justice. Her body is flawless. Her little black dress fits her like a glove and emphasizes her round tits and toned legs. Her long brown hair cascades over her shoulders in soft waves. And her eyes? Dark blue, like sapphires, and framed by long black lashes. They’re gemstones that hide all kinds of secrets, like the deepest waters of the ocean.”
“Why are you with him?” That’s a question I find myself asking more and more often. With every passing day, it becomes clearer that Jake and I are too different. “I don’t know,” I breathe out. “I really don’t.”
“Since the moment I met Xander, my life has been turned upside down. It’s changing in ways I never thought possible, and yet I’ve done nothing to stop it. It’s almost as if I’m enjoying it.”
Xander and Isabella’s story is full of secrets, awful family history and dark moments. But once meeting Xander, Isabella slowly finds her spark and fight again getting stronger and stronger. Xander is always there to support her and protect her. But… this book is a to be continued!
Tropes:
Forbidden Love
Teammates Girlfriend
Reformed Playboy
Friends Todd Lovers
Forced Proximity
Football
Spice starts at 51%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️
Available on Kindle Unlimited May 28th
Breaking Rules
By Anastasija White
“She’s even more stunning than I expected. In college, Miller always went on about how gorgeous she was, but words don’t really do her justice. Her body is flawless. Her little black dress fits her like a glove and emphasizes her round tits and toned legs. Her long brown hair cascades over her shoulders in soft waves. And her eyes? Dark blue, like sapphires, and framed by long black lashes. They’re gemstones that hide all kinds of secrets, like the deepest waters of the ocean.”
“Why are you with him?” That’s a question I find myself asking more and more often. With every passing day, it becomes clearer that Jake and I are too different. “I don’t know,” I breathe out. “I really don’t.”
“Since the moment I met Xander, my life has been turned upside down. It’s changing in ways I never thought possible, and yet I’ve done nothing to stop it. It’s almost as if I’m enjoying it.”
Xander and Isabella’s story is full of secrets, awful family history and dark moments. But once meeting Xander, Isabella slowly finds her spark and fight again getting stronger and stronger. Xander is always there to support her and protect her. But… this book is a to be continued!
Tropes:
Forbidden Love
Teammates Girlfriend
Reformed Playboy
Friends Todd Lovers
Forced Proximity
Football
Spice starts at 51%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️
Available on Kindle Unlimited May 28th
May 30, 2025
Really enjoyed everything until the end. I never leave reviews like this but I had to mention it. I had to read the last two chapters twice cause I thought I missed something. I understand and am all for cliffhangers, but the execution of how it was done in this was really disjointed and bizarre to me. I would possibly recommend waiting till this series is complete to read it.
June 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
I LOVE Xander. I love the storyline. So this is boyfriends teammate, not ex-boyfriend, but current boyfriend 🤭. The current boyfriend, Jake is a dipshit, so Xander’s presence was amazing, seeing Bella be treated how she deserves. Xander is the new quarterback, old college friend of Jake’s, a cocky but hot player, who is such a flirt and he sets his eyes on Bella. Just like in the first fifteen chapters, you can see how much better of a match that Xander is for Bella rather than Jake, the boyfriend.
I loved Xander the entire time, when he was flirting with her because for one, he was attracted to her and two, he saw how Jake treated her. When he noticed things about her that a boyfriend should notice which Jake didn’t. When he treated her like a friend and respected her boundaries. When he left a party to accompany her, even though he loves to party. How he offered a safe place with him, both physically and emotionally. How he asked her to finish decorating his home and was able to get closer to her. How he wanted to just hang out and watch movies she wanted to watch. How he started becoming a better self because of her. How easily they fit together. Genuinely, everything about him was perfect. Thus, why I got scared knowing that this book was a duet and I was wondering why and how it becomes a second chance romance.
And then this was my thought process at the end:
What the fuck. What the fuck?? What the fuck happened?!?! And I have to wait until July?!?!? I am so confused. It was good one chapter and the next, it wasn't. Huh???
Favorite quotes/scenes:
“You should start in my bedroom. I’m sure you’ll love it.”
“Go to hell, Xander.”
“Only if you keep me company.”
“Come here. My bed is warm, and I have excellent cuddling skills.”
“Cuddling skills? You’re unbelievable.”
“Nah. I just know what I want, and I’m doing everything I can to make it happen.”
“One simple touch, and this girl brings me to my knees.”
“Holding her like this is peaceful and pleasant, like a sunny day after weeks of rain.”
“Unraveling her is fucking liberating. Bella is irresistible, and I’m weak for her, ready to worship the ground she walks on. Because that’s exactly what she deserves.”
“Crawl to me, Xander.”
The power she exudes rewires my brain. Every day, she tightens her hold on the reins of her life. It’s sexy as hell. I’d do anything for her. So, I get on all fours and crawl to her.
“Fuck, she’s like a dose of something vital. She’s a need, and I’ve never been more desperate than I am with her.”
““What if I fall?”
“I’ll catch you. No. I take that back—I’ll never let you fall.”
“The only lie I ever told you was the one I told myself as well. I said I don’t do relationships, but I was a fool. I want to do relationships… but only with you. I’m in love with you, Bella.”
“I’ll break all the rules for you, Bella. There’s nothing I won’t do for you.”
“Six months ago, if someone had told me I’d end up falling in love with Miller’s girl, I would’ve laughed in their face. But the second I laid eyes on her, I knew I was screwed. Then, when I saw how she looked at me, I knew she could be my forever.”
“She is the queen of my heart, my body, my mind. Her reign began the second she kissed me, and I’ve worshiped the ground she walks on ever since. When I’m with her, I have everything I need.”
“He is my constant, always on my mind. He has burrowed so deeply into my soul that as long as I have him, I’ll be content. Xander is the sweetest poison, filling the world around me with vibrant, eye-catching colors and warmth. He stole my heart… and I’ll gladly let him keep it.”
“This man is everything I never dared to dream about. Now, he’s painting my world in thousands of different colors with nothing more than his fingers on my skin.”
“God, I love you. I have no idea how I survived all these years without you. I wasted so much time on the wrong people.”
“All those wrong people led us here, to this moment. And now you’re stuck with me.”
“And you’re stuck with me. You’re my perfect match, Bella.”
“Our love makes me feel like I’m losing my mind. To be loved by a man like him is exhilarating—a man who can touch my soul with his words, heal my wounds with the touch of his fingertips, ease my pain with just a peck on my forehead. He’s an attentive lover, caring boyfriend, and wise best friend. He’s my everything. Xander is the place my mind wanders to when it needs a break from my racing thoughts. He makes me happy in a way no one else ever has. There’s no one else for me. He’s my last love.”
“I’ve never gotten high in my life, but I can imagine it feels something like this, like I can do absolutely anything. I’m unstoppable, invincible, immune to anything bad when she’s with me. She’s my light, my personal sunshine. She’s my partner in crime, my seductive mistress, my sensitive girl. Bella makes me feel complete.”
“She’s learning so many things about herself, rebuilding her identity, rediscovering all the things she loves and craves. It’s fascinating to watch her rise like a phoenix from the ashes. It’s the greatest honor to know that she finally believes she deserves to be loved, to be happy. Bella deserves the world, and I’m determined to give it to her.”
I LOVE Xander. I love the storyline. So this is boyfriends teammate, not ex-boyfriend, but current boyfriend 🤭. The current boyfriend, Jake is a dipshit, so Xander’s presence was amazing, seeing Bella be treated how she deserves. Xander is the new quarterback, old college friend of Jake’s, a cocky but hot player, who is such a flirt and he sets his eyes on Bella. Just like in the first fifteen chapters, you can see how much better of a match that Xander is for Bella rather than Jake, the boyfriend.
I loved Xander the entire time, when he was flirting with her because for one, he was attracted to her and two, he saw how Jake treated her. When he noticed things about her that a boyfriend should notice which Jake didn’t. When he treated her like a friend and respected her boundaries. When he left a party to accompany her, even though he loves to party. How he offered a safe place with him, both physically and emotionally. How he asked her to finish decorating his home and was able to get closer to her. How he wanted to just hang out and watch movies she wanted to watch. How he started becoming a better self because of her. How easily they fit together. Genuinely, everything about him was perfect. Thus, why I got scared knowing that this book was a duet and I was wondering why and how it becomes a second chance romance.
And then this was my thought process at the end:
What the fuck. What the fuck?? What the fuck happened?!?! And I have to wait until July?!?!? I am so confused. It was good one chapter and the next, it wasn't. Huh???
Favorite quotes/scenes:
“You should start in my bedroom. I’m sure you’ll love it.”
“Go to hell, Xander.”
“Only if you keep me company.”
“Come here. My bed is warm, and I have excellent cuddling skills.”
“Cuddling skills? You’re unbelievable.”
“Nah. I just know what I want, and I’m doing everything I can to make it happen.”
“One simple touch, and this girl brings me to my knees.”
“Holding her like this is peaceful and pleasant, like a sunny day after weeks of rain.”
“Unraveling her is fucking liberating. Bella is irresistible, and I’m weak for her, ready to worship the ground she walks on. Because that’s exactly what she deserves.”
“Crawl to me, Xander.”
The power she exudes rewires my brain. Every day, she tightens her hold on the reins of her life. It’s sexy as hell. I’d do anything for her. So, I get on all fours and crawl to her.
“Fuck, she’s like a dose of something vital. She’s a need, and I’ve never been more desperate than I am with her.”
““What if I fall?”
“I’ll catch you. No. I take that back—I’ll never let you fall.”
“The only lie I ever told you was the one I told myself as well. I said I don’t do relationships, but I was a fool. I want to do relationships… but only with you. I’m in love with you, Bella.”
“I’ll break all the rules for you, Bella. There’s nothing I won’t do for you.”
“Six months ago, if someone had told me I’d end up falling in love with Miller’s girl, I would’ve laughed in their face. But the second I laid eyes on her, I knew I was screwed. Then, when I saw how she looked at me, I knew she could be my forever.”
“She is the queen of my heart, my body, my mind. Her reign began the second she kissed me, and I’ve worshiped the ground she walks on ever since. When I’m with her, I have everything I need.”
“He is my constant, always on my mind. He has burrowed so deeply into my soul that as long as I have him, I’ll be content. Xander is the sweetest poison, filling the world around me with vibrant, eye-catching colors and warmth. He stole my heart… and I’ll gladly let him keep it.”
“This man is everything I never dared to dream about. Now, he’s painting my world in thousands of different colors with nothing more than his fingers on my skin.”
“God, I love you. I have no idea how I survived all these years without you. I wasted so much time on the wrong people.”
“All those wrong people led us here, to this moment. And now you’re stuck with me.”
“And you’re stuck with me. You’re my perfect match, Bella.”
“Our love makes me feel like I’m losing my mind. To be loved by a man like him is exhilarating—a man who can touch my soul with his words, heal my wounds with the touch of his fingertips, ease my pain with just a peck on my forehead. He’s an attentive lover, caring boyfriend, and wise best friend. He’s my everything. Xander is the place my mind wanders to when it needs a break from my racing thoughts. He makes me happy in a way no one else ever has. There’s no one else for me. He’s my last love.”
“I’ve never gotten high in my life, but I can imagine it feels something like this, like I can do absolutely anything. I’m unstoppable, invincible, immune to anything bad when she’s with me. She’s my light, my personal sunshine. She’s my partner in crime, my seductive mistress, my sensitive girl. Bella makes me feel complete.”
“She’s learning so many things about herself, rebuilding her identity, rediscovering all the things she loves and craves. It’s fascinating to watch her rise like a phoenix from the ashes. It’s the greatest honor to know that she finally believes she deserves to be loved, to be happy. Bella deserves the world, and I’m determined to give it to her.”
June 19, 2025
“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗜 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗜 𝘁𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹. 𝗜 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗜 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗹. 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀…𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗜’𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮.”
Anastasija….you and me need to have a SERIOUS CHAT about this book and the emotional damage it’s put me through. I am UNWELL!!! Unwell…shambles 😩😩
As always, check the trigger warnings. There are some heavy topics discussed in this book…it’s ok if you can’t handle it…your mental health should always come first 💚 also, this is a duet that ends on a cliffhanger. So keep that in mind.
Bella is our FMC and boy did my heart break for her. I felt for her in a way I haven’t for any other FMC I’ve read. She’s in relationship with Jake, a pro NFL player. They were college sweethearts and eventually broke up. But, they are now back together…Bella feeling like time has passed and he’s changed enough to make things work. But she is unfortunately very wrong.
Jake is a trash human being. Point blank period. He’s an abuser in every way and breaks down Bella’s emotional and mental psyche just to mold her into the little trophy girlfriend he wants. He gives zero 💩 about Bella. This poor girl has been abused her whole life. Her mother and step father subjected her to so much emotional and psychological abuse that she has no idea what real care or love looks like. And she’s drawn to the same toxic people , like Jake, because that’s all she knows. Better the devil you know 💔
Alexander, AKA Xander comes into the picture and changes everything. He’s a new transfer to the team but he’s not new to Jake. Xander is Jake’s former college roommate and friend. But something absolutely horrific happened between them and there is nothing Xander wants more than to make Jake eat the turf they play on. I won’t spoil exactly what the event is, you eo have to read it for yourself. It is absolutely disgusting and honestly I hold them both accountable. I love Xander in this book but I didn’t love his participation in this whole ordeal.
The minute Xander sees Bella, he’s instantly attracted and drawn to her. Bella feels the attraction but also is annoyed with his cocky attitude and party boy ways. She keeps her distance or at least tries to but these two keep finding themselves in the same places. Xander sees and catches on to Jake’s abuse of Bella and this makes his need for revenge and hate of Jake even more intense. He doesn’t go after Jake but he does become a safe space for her. He does everything that a boyfriend should do for Bella and more. Everything that Jake never has done and never will do.
Xander keeps things friendly between them but doesn’t keep his feelings for her secret. He respects her choices and boundaries. He hires her to be his interior decorator and as they spend more time together their friendship blooms. They become each others safe space and best friend. Xander changes for the better because of Bella and her support of him. And Bella grows stronger and more confident. Finally leaving Jake for good.
Once the relationship is over , Xander and Bella fall into each other with lightning speed. Everything they have been holding back comes flooding to the surface and it’s a collision of passion, need and love. Xander is FILTHY in all the best ways…and the way Bella gets this man to CRAWL FOR HER!! 🥵🥵🥵 everything about them is explosive and scorching hot. And I am here for it all and more. Obviously Bella and Xander keep their relationship under wraps for fear of the fallout with Jake which adds a secret and almost forbidden element to the story.
Now. Here is where I STROKE OUT! Everything was fine. Xander and Bella were happy and living their best lives. And then BOOM. Catastrophic chaos and fallout. They are no longer together and we are left on a cliffhanger that literally had me screaming into the void ! You CANNOT DO THIS TO ME!! 😭😭😭 please. I need answers. I need help. I need this second book like I need oxygen. I’m impatiently waiting on pins and needles 😖😖😖
Thank you thank you THANK YOU to Anastasija White and Greys PR for the opportunity to ARC read this phenomenal book 💚
🏈Football Romance
💚Second Chance
🏈Morally Grey MMC
💚Forbidden Romance
🏈Secret Romance
💚Toxic Relationship
🏈Abuse
💚Reformed Playboy
🏈Teammates Girlfriend
💚Dark Secrets
🏈Pro NFL Player MMC
💚Interior Designer FMC
🏈Friends to Lovers
💚Forced Proximity
🏈Tragic Past
💚Revenge Plot
🏈Angst
💚Protective Hero
🏈Traumatised Heroine
💚Opposites Attract
🏈Cliffhanger
💚Dual POV
Anastasija….you and me need to have a SERIOUS CHAT about this book and the emotional damage it’s put me through. I am UNWELL!!! Unwell…shambles 😩😩
As always, check the trigger warnings. There are some heavy topics discussed in this book…it’s ok if you can’t handle it…your mental health should always come first 💚 also, this is a duet that ends on a cliffhanger. So keep that in mind.
Bella is our FMC and boy did my heart break for her. I felt for her in a way I haven’t for any other FMC I’ve read. She’s in relationship with Jake, a pro NFL player. They were college sweethearts and eventually broke up. But, they are now back together…Bella feeling like time has passed and he’s changed enough to make things work. But she is unfortunately very wrong.
Jake is a trash human being. Point blank period. He’s an abuser in every way and breaks down Bella’s emotional and mental psyche just to mold her into the little trophy girlfriend he wants. He gives zero 💩 about Bella. This poor girl has been abused her whole life. Her mother and step father subjected her to so much emotional and psychological abuse that she has no idea what real care or love looks like. And she’s drawn to the same toxic people , like Jake, because that’s all she knows. Better the devil you know 💔
Alexander, AKA Xander comes into the picture and changes everything. He’s a new transfer to the team but he’s not new to Jake. Xander is Jake’s former college roommate and friend. But something absolutely horrific happened between them and there is nothing Xander wants more than to make Jake eat the turf they play on. I won’t spoil exactly what the event is, you eo have to read it for yourself. It is absolutely disgusting and honestly I hold them both accountable. I love Xander in this book but I didn’t love his participation in this whole ordeal.
The minute Xander sees Bella, he’s instantly attracted and drawn to her. Bella feels the attraction but also is annoyed with his cocky attitude and party boy ways. She keeps her distance or at least tries to but these two keep finding themselves in the same places. Xander sees and catches on to Jake’s abuse of Bella and this makes his need for revenge and hate of Jake even more intense. He doesn’t go after Jake but he does become a safe space for her. He does everything that a boyfriend should do for Bella and more. Everything that Jake never has done and never will do.
Xander keeps things friendly between them but doesn’t keep his feelings for her secret. He respects her choices and boundaries. He hires her to be his interior decorator and as they spend more time together their friendship blooms. They become each others safe space and best friend. Xander changes for the better because of Bella and her support of him. And Bella grows stronger and more confident. Finally leaving Jake for good.
Once the relationship is over , Xander and Bella fall into each other with lightning speed. Everything they have been holding back comes flooding to the surface and it’s a collision of passion, need and love. Xander is FILTHY in all the best ways…and the way Bella gets this man to CRAWL FOR HER!! 🥵🥵🥵 everything about them is explosive and scorching hot. And I am here for it all and more. Obviously Bella and Xander keep their relationship under wraps for fear of the fallout with Jake which adds a secret and almost forbidden element to the story.
Now. Here is where I STROKE OUT! Everything was fine. Xander and Bella were happy and living their best lives. And then BOOM. Catastrophic chaos and fallout. They are no longer together and we are left on a cliffhanger that literally had me screaming into the void ! You CANNOT DO THIS TO ME!! 😭😭😭 please. I need answers. I need help. I need this second book like I need oxygen. I’m impatiently waiting on pins and needles 😖😖😖
Thank you thank you THANK YOU to Anastasija White and Greys PR for the opportunity to ARC read this phenomenal book 💚
🏈Football Romance
💚Second Chance
🏈Morally Grey MMC
💚Forbidden Romance
🏈Secret Romance
💚Toxic Relationship
🏈Abuse
💚Reformed Playboy
🏈Teammates Girlfriend
💚Dark Secrets
🏈Pro NFL Player MMC
💚Interior Designer FMC
🏈Friends to Lovers
💚Forced Proximity
🏈Tragic Past
💚Revenge Plot
🏈Angst
💚Protective Hero
🏈Traumatised Heroine
💚Opposites Attract
🏈Cliffhanger
💚Dual POV
May 24, 2025
I started this book last night, stayed up until 3am and had to force myself to put it down and sleep. I was actually trying to convince myself that I would be fine today with my 4 year old with 3 hours of sleep if I kept going 😭😂
I love a little forbidden love mixed with a revenge plot BUT EXCUSE ME THE ENDING 😭 I need book two ASAP rocky.
I love a little forbidden love mixed with a revenge plot BUT EXCUSE ME THE ENDING 😭 I need book two ASAP rocky.
May 28, 2025
I fell in love with this book and the characters! It’s a slow burn, but done in a perfect and beautiful way. I went through the emotions.
Isabella (Bella) has lost who she truly is. She has shaped herself into the mold her boyfriend Jake wanted and needed. She has a horrible childhood with a mother and stepfather who didn’t show her love or want her. She realizes that things with Jake are not what she wants because he has gotten even more aggressive and mean with her. They were college sweethearts and after being apart for 7 years they got back together and Bella thought everything would be good again. She was so wrong.
Xander is the newly signed QB with the Warriors in his hometown. He is now also back on a team with his old college roommate, Jake. He is out to make sure the world knows who Jake really is, not who the media portrays him as. Xander and him have a past and it’s not the best of one. But when he sees Bella, he wants to get her away from him too. But things start to change the closer the two get.
Xander hires Bella to do some interior designing for him in his new house. The two together start to build a friendship. At first Bella is not having it, she is not a fan of his blunt flirting. She keeps trying to push him away, but deep down she feels a spark she knows she shouldn’t. Xander is there for her when she needs someone. But he has some secrets he is keeping from her.
This book had me FURIOUS at Jake and even Xander a couple of times. I wanted the two to have their HEA, they both deserved it. They had a spark and a connection that was hot and spicy!
4⭐️
3🌶️
Isabella (Bella) has lost who she truly is. She has shaped herself into the mold her boyfriend Jake wanted and needed. She has a horrible childhood with a mother and stepfather who didn’t show her love or want her. She realizes that things with Jake are not what she wants because he has gotten even more aggressive and mean with her. They were college sweethearts and after being apart for 7 years they got back together and Bella thought everything would be good again. She was so wrong.
Xander is the newly signed QB with the Warriors in his hometown. He is now also back on a team with his old college roommate, Jake. He is out to make sure the world knows who Jake really is, not who the media portrays him as. Xander and him have a past and it’s not the best of one. But when he sees Bella, he wants to get her away from him too. But things start to change the closer the two get.
Xander hires Bella to do some interior designing for him in his new house. The two together start to build a friendship. At first Bella is not having it, she is not a fan of his blunt flirting. She keeps trying to push him away, but deep down she feels a spark she knows she shouldn’t. Xander is there for her when she needs someone. But he has some secrets he is keeping from her.
This book had me FURIOUS at Jake and even Xander a couple of times. I wanted the two to have their HEA, they both deserved it. They had a spark and a connection that was hot and spicy!
4⭐️
3🌶️
June 30, 2025
This book sucked me in so fast! I’ve never hated a character more than I hate Jake.
Please let’s protect Xander at all costs, that man is so patient, kind, and overall a good fucking guy. Bella, I wanted to hug her so many times, but also at the same time would have loved if she grew a little more confident in telling the truth.
I’m a little confused by the ending though. Did I miss something? Glad the next book is out next week!
Please let’s protect Xander at all costs, that man is so patient, kind, and overall a good fucking guy. Bella, I wanted to hug her so many times, but also at the same time would have loved if she grew a little more confident in telling the truth.
I’m a little confused by the ending though. Did I miss something? Glad the next book is out next week!
July 29, 2025
nah cuz what even was that? and no happy ending bffr.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
— ARC Review : 5 stars ✰
spice level : 4/5 🌶️
- tropes :
♥️ forbidden love
🏈 teammate’s girlfriend
♥️ dark secrets
🏈 reformed playboy
♥️ friends to lovers
🏈 forced proximity
: ̗̀➛ I am so in love with this book! The writing, the characters, the emotional pull... and yes, the smut? Absolutely top tier! It had me hooked from start to finish.
What stood out the most to me was the dynamic between Isabella and Alexander. Their banter was so fun and natural, but underneath that was real emotional connection. I loved how safe Isabella felt with him and how he understood her without needing her to explain everything. Despite his past reputation, Alexander truly stepped up and changed for her. That kind of redemption arc? Chef’s kiss. I’ll be honest, there were times when I felt frustrated with Isabella’s decisions especially when it came to her relationship with Jake. He was abusive, controlling and treated her like a trophy while constantly lying and cheating. It was a toxic relationship through and through. I didn’t understand at first why she stayed with someone like him for so long but the more I read, the more I realised how true to real life that is. It’s never easy to leave something toxic especially when emotional manipulation and trauma are involved. The author did a really good job showing how complicated and painful that aftermath can be.
This book is seriously addictive. But that cliffhanger?! I’m not okay T_T I need the second book now because I’m so invested in Isabella and Alexander’s stories. Really hoping to see more healing, growth and love for them both.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Anastasija White & Grey's Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
spice level : 4/5 🌶️
- tropes :
♥️ forbidden love
🏈 teammate’s girlfriend
♥️ dark secrets
🏈 reformed playboy
♥️ friends to lovers
🏈 forced proximity
: ̗̀➛ I am so in love with this book! The writing, the characters, the emotional pull... and yes, the smut? Absolutely top tier! It had me hooked from start to finish.
What stood out the most to me was the dynamic between Isabella and Alexander. Their banter was so fun and natural, but underneath that was real emotional connection. I loved how safe Isabella felt with him and how he understood her without needing her to explain everything. Despite his past reputation, Alexander truly stepped up and changed for her. That kind of redemption arc? Chef’s kiss. I’ll be honest, there were times when I felt frustrated with Isabella’s decisions especially when it came to her relationship with Jake. He was abusive, controlling and treated her like a trophy while constantly lying and cheating. It was a toxic relationship through and through. I didn’t understand at first why she stayed with someone like him for so long but the more I read, the more I realised how true to real life that is. It’s never easy to leave something toxic especially when emotional manipulation and trauma are involved. The author did a really good job showing how complicated and painful that aftermath can be.
This book is seriously addictive. But that cliffhanger?! I’m not okay T_T I need the second book now because I’m so invested in Isabella and Alexander’s stories. Really hoping to see more healing, growth and love for them both.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Anastasija White & Grey's Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
June 15, 2025
reads final two sentences
*throws book across room*
*throws book across room*
June 9, 2025
Breaking Rules (ARC review)
Thank you to Anastasija White for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
That was a great read. Isabella and Alexander were beautiful! Their story had so much heartbreak, pain, angst, passion, and chemistry. I loved them so much together. You could see how much they meant to each other. Alexander was made for her. You could see how much she meant to him even at their first interaction. Isabella was so good for him. She was sweet, loving, and strong. She deserved the world. To me, these two had a beautiful love story that I can't wait to see in the second book. The cliffhanger left me questioning everything, and I need to know as soon as possible cause I want them to get their happily ever after!
Book by: Anastasija White
Tropes:
• Sports romance
• Revenge plot
• Reformed playboy
• Forbidden romance
• Dark past
• Teammate's girlfriend
My rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
Thank you to Anastasija White for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
That was a great read. Isabella and Alexander were beautiful! Their story had so much heartbreak, pain, angst, passion, and chemistry. I loved them so much together. You could see how much they meant to each other. Alexander was made for her. You could see how much she meant to him even at their first interaction. Isabella was so good for him. She was sweet, loving, and strong. She deserved the world. To me, these two had a beautiful love story that I can't wait to see in the second book. The cliffhanger left me questioning everything, and I need to know as soon as possible cause I want them to get their happily ever after!
Book by: Anastasija White
Tropes:
• Sports romance
• Revenge plot
• Reformed playboy
• Forbidden romance
• Dark past
• Teammate's girlfriend
My rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
May 31, 2025
5/5⭐️ 3/5 🌶️
Trope:
💚Forbidden Love
💚Reformed Playboy
💚Teammates Girlfriend
💚Revenge
💚Dark Past
💚Football Romance
I first read Breaking the Rules on Inkitt a while ago, so getting the chance to read the updated version as an ARC felt nostalgic. The author added new scenes and changed a few things, and I actually enjoyed seeing how it all came together in this version.
The story itself was good, but what really made it for me were the characters especially Xander. He was definitely the highlight. I loved his vibe and how much depth he brought to the story. You could really feel how much he cared, and that stuck with me.
If you’re into forbidden romance with drama and emotional moments, give this one a try.
Now I need the second book like yesterday! It comes out in July, and I’m already counting down.
*Arc for a honest review*
Trope:
💚Forbidden Love
💚Reformed Playboy
💚Teammates Girlfriend
💚Revenge
💚Dark Past
💚Football Romance
I first read Breaking the Rules on Inkitt a while ago, so getting the chance to read the updated version as an ARC felt nostalgic. The author added new scenes and changed a few things, and I actually enjoyed seeing how it all came together in this version.
The story itself was good, but what really made it for me were the characters especially Xander. He was definitely the highlight. I loved his vibe and how much depth he brought to the story. You could really feel how much he cared, and that stuck with me.
If you’re into forbidden romance with drama and emotional moments, give this one a try.
Now I need the second book like yesterday! It comes out in July, and I’m already counting down.
*Arc for a honest review*
June 5, 2025
I initially quite liked the whole premise of this book, with Xander having some mysterious intentions and plans for both Isabella "Bella" and Jake. I was really curious to see why Xander held so much animosity towards Jake and why despite everything seemingly fine between the two guys, Xander held great spite and negative feelings towards him. I did enjoy that slowly we got to see Xander's past trauma unravel, showing us just how deep his disdain for Jake ran. Essentially, his dark past involved his ex girlfriend Stacey and how Jake essentially drugged and raped her to get back at him for no longer partaking in their "games," which was essentially seeing who could have sex with their target first, sometimes even partaking in threesomes together. Now that really irked me.
I was really starting to like Xander and actually enjoyed how caring and attentive he was towards Bella, even fighting her on trying to get her to stand up for herself and find self-confidence and worth. I genuinely thought he was a great partner for her, even now I still think he's a better match for her than Jake, but the fact that this really was his past and how disgusting this was actually didn't sit right/well with me. This revelation towards the end of the book decreased my capacity to embrace and like him as an MMC, as now I know how much of an ass and a pig he used to be. I mean, though he's clearly matured and changed to an extent, this just makes me see him in a different (somewhat unflattering) light, especially when it was described how he and Jake would prey on and target these innocent girls, treating them as if they were disposable and disrespecting them in every way.
I know it must've been traumatizing seeing Stacey attempt to unaliving herself, seeing her bleed out, and then having to realize how much of an ass he was and also recognizing the negative influences and associations he put himself around. Still, his past just really ruined my image and perception of him so much, just as he predicted it would do to Bella when he finally did tell her.
Bella was lowkey kind of intolerable in a way. I get she's in a toxic cycle with these abusive men who belittle and put her down all so she remains compliant and meek (her stepdad Kevin and her boyfriend Jake), but she seriously didn't have a backbone at all until she finally, and I mean finally, broke up with Jake, in my opinion only being able to do so thanks to her cousin Ben being there. She always kept saying that she would leave him and that she knows she deserves better, but that girl just always got roped back into Jake's toxic orbit, becoming the trophy partner and doll he so clearly wanted her to be. And the fact there were blaring signs he was constantly cheating on her and she failed to see it?! Girl was in deep.
The story itself wasn't anything too special, crazy, or memorable, but my view on both of the MCs are definitely not in the most positive light, especially with Xander and his past. I loved how he was basically down bad for Bella from the start (the book showing his progressive awareness towards his existing feelings for Bella), but his past with Jake just truly put a dark cloud over my view of him. Now I can't really enjoy him as an MMC the same way I did before.
Bella and the several hundred pages of just her and Xander having little moments before immediately giving in to Jake and becoming compliant (usually ending up with them having sex), just for the cycle to repeat, was making me so bored. Even when she heard Jake on the phone with Xander admit he cheated on her at clubs and with Cindy from the cafe run-in, on top of the fact that he just keeps Bella around because she's "hot" and "good at sex," she always somehow went back to him, even going as far as to accept the pressure from a public engagement to him. Ugh. Yeah I hope the second book of this duet is more redeemable, but my views on Xander? Forever tainted.
I was really starting to like Xander and actually enjoyed how caring and attentive he was towards Bella, even fighting her on trying to get her to stand up for herself and find self-confidence and worth. I genuinely thought he was a great partner for her, even now I still think he's a better match for her than Jake, but the fact that this really was his past and how disgusting this was actually didn't sit right/well with me. This revelation towards the end of the book decreased my capacity to embrace and like him as an MMC, as now I know how much of an ass and a pig he used to be. I mean, though he's clearly matured and changed to an extent, this just makes me see him in a different (somewhat unflattering) light, especially when it was described how he and Jake would prey on and target these innocent girls, treating them as if they were disposable and disrespecting them in every way.
I know it must've been traumatizing seeing Stacey attempt to unaliving herself, seeing her bleed out, and then having to realize how much of an ass he was and also recognizing the negative influences and associations he put himself around. Still, his past just really ruined my image and perception of him so much, just as he predicted it would do to Bella when he finally did tell her.
Bella was lowkey kind of intolerable in a way. I get she's in a toxic cycle with these abusive men who belittle and put her down all so she remains compliant and meek (her stepdad Kevin and her boyfriend Jake), but she seriously didn't have a backbone at all until she finally, and I mean finally, broke up with Jake, in my opinion only being able to do so thanks to her cousin Ben being there. She always kept saying that she would leave him and that she knows she deserves better, but that girl just always got roped back into Jake's toxic orbit, becoming the trophy partner and doll he so clearly wanted her to be. And the fact there were blaring signs he was constantly cheating on her and she failed to see it?! Girl was in deep.
The story itself wasn't anything too special, crazy, or memorable, but my view on both of the MCs are definitely not in the most positive light, especially with Xander and his past. I loved how he was basically down bad for Bella from the start (the book showing his progressive awareness towards his existing feelings for Bella), but his past with Jake just truly put a dark cloud over my view of him. Now I can't really enjoy him as an MMC the same way I did before.
Bella and the several hundred pages of just her and Xander having little moments before immediately giving in to Jake and becoming compliant (usually ending up with them having sex), just for the cycle to repeat, was making me so bored. Even when she heard Jake on the phone with Xander admit he cheated on her at clubs and with Cindy from the cafe run-in, on top of the fact that he just keeps Bella around because she's "hot" and "good at sex," she always somehow went back to him, even going as far as to accept the pressure from a public engagement to him. Ugh. Yeah I hope the second book of this duet is more redeemable, but my views on Xander? Forever tainted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
ARC Review
5 ⭐️
3,5 🌶️
Available May 28th 🌸
Trope:
💕 Forbidden Love
💕 Reformed Playboy
💕 Teammates Girlfriend
💕 Revenge
💕 Dark Past
💕 Friends to Lovers
💕 Football Romance
✨ He stole my heart… and I‘ll gladly let him keep it. ✨
I loooooooved this Book so much!! This is one of my fav books of this year and all time!!
Bella is in a relationship with Jake and meets Xanders at his welcome party. Soon they become friends.
Bella struggles with her relationship with Jake and has trust issues and a dark past she struggles with.
I loved to read how she and Xander fall in love and I know you will love it too. He is THE bookboyfriend ‼️😍😍
The Cliffhanger is on point and wants you to read the next book asap!! (Comes up in July)
5 ⭐️
3,5 🌶️
Available May 28th 🌸
Trope:
💕 Forbidden Love
💕 Reformed Playboy
💕 Teammates Girlfriend
💕 Revenge
💕 Dark Past
💕 Friends to Lovers
💕 Football Romance
✨ He stole my heart… and I‘ll gladly let him keep it. ✨
I loooooooved this Book so much!! This is one of my fav books of this year and all time!!
Bella is in a relationship with Jake and meets Xanders at his welcome party. Soon they become friends.
Bella struggles with her relationship with Jake and has trust issues and a dark past she struggles with.
I loved to read how she and Xander fall in love and I know you will love it too. He is THE bookboyfriend ‼️😍😍
The Cliffhanger is on point and wants you to read the next book asap!! (Comes up in July)
June 5, 2025
ARC Review – Breaking Rules by Anastasija White
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Breaking Rules completely wrecked me in the best way—and I loved every second of it. This emotionally charged, character-driven romance is the kind of story that lingers long after the final page. I flew through it and now I’m counting down the days until book two!
The story follows Bella, a FMC who is strong yet quietly broken, and Xander, the alluring, emotionally guarded, morally gray love interest who’s far more than he seems. Their chemistry is undeniable from the very beginning—tense, forbidden, and full of longing.
Anastasija White does a fantastic job balancing angst, emotional depth, and raw vulnerability. Bella’s voice is so honest, and Xander… let’s just say he’s a walking “who did this to you” moment. He’s protective, complex, and fully swoon-worthy. I was hooked on every interaction between them.
If you’re a fan of deeply emotional romance with edge, tension, and beautifully flawed characters, Breaking Rules is an absolute must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Breaking Rules completely wrecked me in the best way—and I loved every second of it. This emotionally charged, character-driven romance is the kind of story that lingers long after the final page. I flew through it and now I’m counting down the days until book two!
The story follows Bella, a FMC who is strong yet quietly broken, and Xander, the alluring, emotionally guarded, morally gray love interest who’s far more than he seems. Their chemistry is undeniable from the very beginning—tense, forbidden, and full of longing.
Anastasija White does a fantastic job balancing angst, emotional depth, and raw vulnerability. Bella’s voice is so honest, and Xander… let’s just say he’s a walking “who did this to you” moment. He’s protective, complex, and fully swoon-worthy. I was hooked on every interaction between them.
If you’re a fan of deeply emotional romance with edge, tension, and beautifully flawed characters, Breaking Rules is an absolute must-read.
June 4, 2025
• ARC REVIEW •
“Breaking rules” is a story about love, trust, overcoming the past, and finding yourself again. It’s a book that lingers in your heart, because it reminds you that even the most broken people still deserve something good.
Isabella and Xander, are people with pasts, full of contradictions and inner wounds. Their relationship is a journey, long, painful, but ultimately beautiful. It unfolds slowly, sometimes chaotically, but that’s what makes it feel so real. It’s full of pain, passion, and truth.
The intimate scenes are sensual but never overwhelming. They feel like a natural part of the narrative, deeply tied to the characters’ growth and their bond. Each one carries meaning and moves the story forward emotionally, not just physically.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the way the author handles the theme of trauma. It’s not just background noise, it’s a foundation of the story. Ana shows that healing doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes it takes years and many setbacks to learn how to get back up. And it’s worth having someone by your side who will reach out and pull you back to the surface when you fall.
Despite the trauma and heartbreaking revelations I learned about Xander and Bella’s backstories, it was great to see the two of them form such a deep connection combined with their fun loving dynamic that truly brought them laughter and joy by being together.
Ana doesn’t just write about love, she writes about healing, about embracing the imperfect parts of ourselves and learning to accept them. She has a remarkable talent for creating complex, imperfect characters who make mistakes but are incredibly human and moving because of it.
This book is part of a duet and it ended with a big cliffhanger, leaving me with sooo many questions. I cannot wait to read the next book, to unravel the unknown which appeared at the end of this 1st book.
Tropes:
- Teammate’s Girlfriend
- Forbidden Love
- Reformed Playboy
- Forced Proximity
“Breaking rules” is a story about love, trust, overcoming the past, and finding yourself again. It’s a book that lingers in your heart, because it reminds you that even the most broken people still deserve something good.
Isabella and Xander, are people with pasts, full of contradictions and inner wounds. Their relationship is a journey, long, painful, but ultimately beautiful. It unfolds slowly, sometimes chaotically, but that’s what makes it feel so real. It’s full of pain, passion, and truth.
The intimate scenes are sensual but never overwhelming. They feel like a natural part of the narrative, deeply tied to the characters’ growth and their bond. Each one carries meaning and moves the story forward emotionally, not just physically.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the way the author handles the theme of trauma. It’s not just background noise, it’s a foundation of the story. Ana shows that healing doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes it takes years and many setbacks to learn how to get back up. And it’s worth having someone by your side who will reach out and pull you back to the surface when you fall.
Despite the trauma and heartbreaking revelations I learned about Xander and Bella’s backstories, it was great to see the two of them form such a deep connection combined with their fun loving dynamic that truly brought them laughter and joy by being together.
Ana doesn’t just write about love, she writes about healing, about embracing the imperfect parts of ourselves and learning to accept them. She has a remarkable talent for creating complex, imperfect characters who make mistakes but are incredibly human and moving because of it.
This book is part of a duet and it ended with a big cliffhanger, leaving me with sooo many questions. I cannot wait to read the next book, to unravel the unknown which appeared at the end of this 1st book.
Tropes:
- Teammate’s Girlfriend
- Forbidden Love
- Reformed Playboy
- Forced Proximity
June 5, 2025
This story follows Isabella (Bella) and Xander. It starts with Bella being in a toxic relationship with her current boyfriend (first love) Jake, but as the story goes on you learn that he is a terrible person.
Xander is Jake’s teammate and they were “friends” and always in competition with one another in college.
Once Xander and Bella meet there is a connection. Xander is there for Bella when she needs someone most. He’s her protector and confidant.
Xander and Bella start dating very soon after Bella leaves Jake (they technically aren’t broken up yet because Bella is afraid to tell Jake).
But Xander is everything Bella has ever wanted in a partner. He is supportive, he always wants to hang out with her, they are best friends.
Bella has a traumatic past and Xander is the first person to actually listen to her and take her side.
I loved him! He was so cocky and a dirty talker but he was all in with Bella.
Bella helped Xander become the best version of himself too. They were made for each other.
But OMG THE ENDING?! What!!! My jaw was on the floor. I honestly didn’t see it coming and there’s no way I can wait until July!
There is a huge cliffhanger and I need to know what happened since there was a big time jump.
This book is messy but I couldn’t put it down and I am nervous and excited to see what’s next!
Make sure to check trigger warnings there are some heavy topics! I also do consider this book to have cheating in it.
Rating ⭐️: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 3/5
Dual POV
🖤 Forbidden love
🏈 Sports romance
🖤 Teammates girlfriend
🏈 Reformed playboy
🖤 Friends to lovers
🏈 Forced proximity
Thank you to the author and Grey’s Promotion for the arc.
Xander is Jake’s teammate and they were “friends” and always in competition with one another in college.
Once Xander and Bella meet there is a connection. Xander is there for Bella when she needs someone most. He’s her protector and confidant.
Xander and Bella start dating very soon after Bella leaves Jake (they technically aren’t broken up yet because Bella is afraid to tell Jake).
But Xander is everything Bella has ever wanted in a partner. He is supportive, he always wants to hang out with her, they are best friends.
Bella has a traumatic past and Xander is the first person to actually listen to her and take her side.
I loved him! He was so cocky and a dirty talker but he was all in with Bella.
Bella helped Xander become the best version of himself too. They were made for each other.
But OMG THE ENDING?! What!!! My jaw was on the floor. I honestly didn’t see it coming and there’s no way I can wait until July!
There is a huge cliffhanger and I need to know what happened since there was a big time jump.
This book is messy but I couldn’t put it down and I am nervous and excited to see what’s next!
Make sure to check trigger warnings there are some heavy topics! I also do consider this book to have cheating in it.
Rating ⭐️: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 3/5
Dual POV
🖤 Forbidden love
🏈 Sports romance
🖤 Teammates girlfriend
🏈 Reformed playboy
🖤 Friends to lovers
🏈 Forced proximity
Thank you to the author and Grey’s Promotion for the arc.
June 3, 2025
“I’ve only been gone for two fucking days, but it feels like an eternity. Not seeing you, not talking to you, not hearing your voice? It’s torture. I’m fucking obsessed with you, Bella, and when you’re around, I lose my goddamn mind."
OKAY I AM REALLY NOT OKAY!!! WHAT WAS THAT ENDING!??! Isabella (Bella) and Xander’s story is MESSY, but my god it’s so good! This is book 1 in this duet and it ends on a cliffhanger.
🖤Sports romance
🖤Teammates girlfriend
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Friends to lovers
Bella is in a relationship, again, with her high school boyfriend Jake, and things are just as bad as they once were. He gaslights her, manipulates her, treats her awfully, and so much worse. So when Xander comes to the team, him and Bella start to form a friendship. And I really loved that for them. Their eventual relationship is based first on that solid friendship that they built.
There is no love lost between Xander and Jake. Their history goes way back, and Xander is more than happy to be the one bringing a smile to his girlfriends face.
I couldn’t put this book down. It is messy. It is hard to read at times. But there is so much emotional depth in between these pages. I love the character development of Bella and how she gets stronger and stronger as the pages go on. Xander is a bit of a mystery to me, even though we do get his backstory, I feel like there is more under the surface waiting to be uncovered.
Also, THAT ENDING!! I know I said it once, but OMG that was like whirlwind and is making me salivate for the next book.
OKAY I AM REALLY NOT OKAY!!! WHAT WAS THAT ENDING!??! Isabella (Bella) and Xander’s story is MESSY, but my god it’s so good! This is book 1 in this duet and it ends on a cliffhanger.
🖤Sports romance
🖤Teammates girlfriend
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Friends to lovers
Bella is in a relationship, again, with her high school boyfriend Jake, and things are just as bad as they once were. He gaslights her, manipulates her, treats her awfully, and so much worse. So when Xander comes to the team, him and Bella start to form a friendship. And I really loved that for them. Their eventual relationship is based first on that solid friendship that they built.
There is no love lost between Xander and Jake. Their history goes way back, and Xander is more than happy to be the one bringing a smile to his girlfriends face.
I couldn’t put this book down. It is messy. It is hard to read at times. But there is so much emotional depth in between these pages. I love the character development of Bella and how she gets stronger and stronger as the pages go on. Xander is a bit of a mystery to me, even though we do get his backstory, I feel like there is more under the surface waiting to be uncovered.
Also, THAT ENDING!! I know I said it once, but OMG that was like whirlwind and is making me salivate for the next book.
May 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Anastasija White for the ARC💚
I absolutely loved this, not only was it a romance but so much more. There were great depictions of grief, and other deep stuff that I won’t spoil but definitely look up trigger warnings if you want to read this one🫶🏻
Bella has gone through so much in her life, and her boyfriend Jake does not make it easier for her. She thinks it’s easier to shut down and not let people in when things get hard because of her past. She’s such a strong character and in some ways I related to her a lot🥲
Then in walks Xander and he completely changes things for Bella, he’s attentive, caring, charming, not to mention completely sexy🤭 he knows that there’s more to the story with Bella and Jake but he also has his own past with Jake that keeps you guessing throughout the book
I absolutely loved the side characters too(for the most part), Meg, Marco, Audrey, Xander’s parents, and MILO🥹
But at the same time I have to say F*CK Bella’s parents and Jake, everything they put her through had me seething for her😡
Overall, I loved this book minus the cliffhanger so beware going into this one, BUT there will be a part two to Bella and Xander’s story🤭
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Anastasija White for the ARC💚
I absolutely loved this, not only was it a romance but so much more. There were great depictions of grief, and other deep stuff that I won’t spoil but definitely look up trigger warnings if you want to read this one🫶🏻
Bella has gone through so much in her life, and her boyfriend Jake does not make it easier for her. She thinks it’s easier to shut down and not let people in when things get hard because of her past. She’s such a strong character and in some ways I related to her a lot🥲
Then in walks Xander and he completely changes things for Bella, he’s attentive, caring, charming, not to mention completely sexy🤭 he knows that there’s more to the story with Bella and Jake but he also has his own past with Jake that keeps you guessing throughout the book
I absolutely loved the side characters too(for the most part), Meg, Marco, Audrey, Xander’s parents, and MILO🥹
But at the same time I have to say F*CK Bella’s parents and Jake, everything they put her through had me seething for her😡
Overall, I loved this book minus the cliffhanger so beware going into this one, BUT there will be a part two to Bella and Xander’s story🤭
June 4, 2025
⭐️ 5 | 🌶️ 4
Breaking Rules is book one of a duet. It ends on a cliffhanger and if that wasn’t frustrating enough, the epilogue jumps a year in the future and is very vague! WHAT HAPPENED?!
Now I’m not so patiently waiting for book two.
I loved this book! I could not put it down and I read it in a day. Bella has a tormented past and when her ex reappears in her life, she decides to take him back because it reminds her of a happier time in her life. Her boyfriend, Jake, is an NFL Wide Reciever and cares more about appearances. Jake is a great antagonist! I have zero nice things to say about his character. Xander, Jake’s college roommate, signs with his hometown team and he hopes Jake has changed. Xander befriends Bella and the more time they spend together, the harder it is for him to get her out of his head and understand why she’s with Jake.
This book was full of angst, passion and secrets! The characters were well developed. I loved Xander! He was loyal and honest. His flirting and banter reminds me of my husband😆. Bella was such a complex character, her story is heartbreaking.
Anastasija White is a new author for me and I can’t wait to dive into her other books!
Breaking Rules is book one of a duet. It ends on a cliffhanger and if that wasn’t frustrating enough, the epilogue jumps a year in the future and is very vague! WHAT HAPPENED?!
Now I’m not so patiently waiting for book two.
I loved this book! I could not put it down and I read it in a day. Bella has a tormented past and when her ex reappears in her life, she decides to take him back because it reminds her of a happier time in her life. Her boyfriend, Jake, is an NFL Wide Reciever and cares more about appearances. Jake is a great antagonist! I have zero nice things to say about his character. Xander, Jake’s college roommate, signs with his hometown team and he hopes Jake has changed. Xander befriends Bella and the more time they spend together, the harder it is for him to get her out of his head and understand why she’s with Jake.
This book was full of angst, passion and secrets! The characters were well developed. I loved Xander! He was loyal and honest. His flirting and banter reminds me of my husband😆. Bella was such a complex character, her story is heartbreaking.
Anastasija White is a new author for me and I can’t wait to dive into her other books!
May 25, 2025
I devoured this book. And I need the second book asap 🫠 I have such love/hate feelings towards cliff hangers 😂 but I know the wait is absolutely going to be worth it.
Bella is in a crappy relationship with her highschool sweetheart and she starts to realise that she needs to leave the situation she's in. And don't even get me started on her mum 🙄
Xander and her now ex, Jake, have history together from their college days and secrets start to come out. We don't like Jake, he gave me creeper vibes from the very start 😂
Xander doesn't do relationships, but you bet as soon as he meets Bella, that all changes. He is protective and is everything Bella deserves. Their journey from friends to lovers was everything. Earning each other's trust and opening up to each other about their pasts.
"𝓝𝓸𝔀 𝓲𝓽'𝓼 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓸 𝓹𝓵𝓪𝔂 𝓫𝔂 𝓶𝔂 𝓻𝓾𝓵𝓮𝓼, 𝓜𝓻. 𝓠𝓾𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴."
Absolutely loved getting lost in their story and that ending 👀 counting down until I can read the second book in this duet.
I absolutely love every single book from Ana and this one was no different.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 -
•Football romance
•Forbidden love
•Dark past
•Reformed playboy
Bella is in a crappy relationship with her highschool sweetheart and she starts to realise that she needs to leave the situation she's in. And don't even get me started on her mum 🙄
Xander and her now ex, Jake, have history together from their college days and secrets start to come out. We don't like Jake, he gave me creeper vibes from the very start 😂
Xander doesn't do relationships, but you bet as soon as he meets Bella, that all changes. He is protective and is everything Bella deserves. Their journey from friends to lovers was everything. Earning each other's trust and opening up to each other about their pasts.
"𝓝𝓸𝔀 𝓲𝓽'𝓼 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓸 𝓹𝓵𝓪𝔂 𝓫𝔂 𝓶𝔂 𝓻𝓾𝓵𝓮𝓼, 𝓜𝓻. 𝓠𝓾𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴."
Absolutely loved getting lost in their story and that ending 👀 counting down until I can read the second book in this duet.
I absolutely love every single book from Ana and this one was no different.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 -
•Football romance
•Forbidden love
•Dark past
•Reformed playboy
May 28, 2025
✨ARC Review 📚✨
This is book 1 in the Rules Duet, which follows Isabella Lawson and Alexander Walker. When Bella meets Xander, she is dating Jake Miller one of Xander’s teammates and her high school boyfriend. Bella has a pretty traumatic past that she keeps secret, which leads her to allow Jake to treat her poorly. Xander has a tragic history with Jake from their college years. At first Xander is planning to get revenge on Jake but when he meets Bella and forms a friendship with her his plans change and he falls for her fast. This is a forbidden love, with many secrets but also plenty of spice. Bella and Xander’s chemistry is very strong. This book does not end on a happily ever after and ends with a to be continued which we will find out when book 2 comes out.
This is the first book I read by author Anastasija White and it didn't disappoint. Thank you to author Anastasija White and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
This is book 1 in the Rules Duet, which follows Isabella Lawson and Alexander Walker. When Bella meets Xander, she is dating Jake Miller one of Xander’s teammates and her high school boyfriend. Bella has a pretty traumatic past that she keeps secret, which leads her to allow Jake to treat her poorly. Xander has a tragic history with Jake from their college years. At first Xander is planning to get revenge on Jake but when he meets Bella and forms a friendship with her his plans change and he falls for her fast. This is a forbidden love, with many secrets but also plenty of spice. Bella and Xander’s chemistry is very strong. This book does not end on a happily ever after and ends with a to be continued which we will find out when book 2 comes out.
This is the first book I read by author Anastasija White and it didn't disappoint. Thank you to author Anastasija White and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
June 4, 2025
ANASTASIJA WHITE – BREAKING RULES
ARC REVIEW
- part One of the Rules Duet
- he’s a professional athlete (and used to be a playboy, but he’s reformed!)
- she’s his teammate’s girlfriend
- dark past
- revenge
I’ve been waiting for Bella and Xander’s story ever since the ending of Power Play — you have no idea how excited I was to finally read it. And the emotions? Oh, there were a lot. But let’s start from the beginning.
Isabella “Bella” Lawson is a woman who’s always felt like she wasn’t enough. Even her boyfriend, Jake, treated her like someone he could show off, rather than as an equal partner. But she couldn’t bring herself to say “stop” — until one moment changed everything.
Alexander “Xander” Walker noticed Bella the very first moment he saw her. And while I have to admit, his first move wasn’t exactly smooth, you’ll forgive him for that (really, it’s a great start!). The events of his past still haunt him, and although Bella could have simply been a means to an end, she becomes so much more. She becomes someone unforgettable — someone he doesn’t want to forget.
Breaking Rules is a story that shows just how deeply a person’s self-worth can be damaged. I really loved how Bella’s character was written. There were moments when I wanted to shake her and ask, “Girl, what are you doing?” — but I understood her. It’s not easy to forget something that broke a part of you. Xander treated Bella the way she deserved to be treated. She was his equal, not just an ornament. And it was Xander to whom Bella opened up, sharing her darkest secrets.
The first part of this duet also shows that we can’t always escape our past. Sometimes, in order to walk a new path, we first need to heal ourselves — knowing it won’t be easy, but it will be necessary. Otherwise, we may never become who we truly are, always hiding behind a mask. And let’s not forget — smiles can be deceiving.
After that ending, I’m even more excited for the second book. I truly hope everything goes the way I want, because Bella and Xander deserve the absolute best.
Anastasija, thank you for this story. I just know you’ll surprise us in book two — and I can’t wait.
ARC REVIEW
- part One of the Rules Duet
- he’s a professional athlete (and used to be a playboy, but he’s reformed!)
- she’s his teammate’s girlfriend
- dark past
- revenge
I’ve been waiting for Bella and Xander’s story ever since the ending of Power Play — you have no idea how excited I was to finally read it. And the emotions? Oh, there were a lot. But let’s start from the beginning.
Isabella “Bella” Lawson is a woman who’s always felt like she wasn’t enough. Even her boyfriend, Jake, treated her like someone he could show off, rather than as an equal partner. But she couldn’t bring herself to say “stop” — until one moment changed everything.
Alexander “Xander” Walker noticed Bella the very first moment he saw her. And while I have to admit, his first move wasn’t exactly smooth, you’ll forgive him for that (really, it’s a great start!). The events of his past still haunt him, and although Bella could have simply been a means to an end, she becomes so much more. She becomes someone unforgettable — someone he doesn’t want to forget.
Breaking Rules is a story that shows just how deeply a person’s self-worth can be damaged. I really loved how Bella’s character was written. There were moments when I wanted to shake her and ask, “Girl, what are you doing?” — but I understood her. It’s not easy to forget something that broke a part of you. Xander treated Bella the way she deserved to be treated. She was his equal, not just an ornament. And it was Xander to whom Bella opened up, sharing her darkest secrets.
The first part of this duet also shows that we can’t always escape our past. Sometimes, in order to walk a new path, we first need to heal ourselves — knowing it won’t be easy, but it will be necessary. Otherwise, we may never become who we truly are, always hiding behind a mask. And let’s not forget — smiles can be deceiving.
After that ending, I’m even more excited for the second book. I truly hope everything goes the way I want, because Bella and Xander deserve the absolute best.
Anastasija, thank you for this story. I just know you’ll surprise us in book two — and I can’t wait.
August 7, 2025
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3-3.5🌶️
😮💨 was this a spicy good time!
I’ve never read a book by this author, and this duet is just the start of the ones by her I am going to read!
I love a good football romance, however like other sports romances (or most of them), they tend to lack character depth. This book 100% gave the character depth that I needed!
I loved our main characters dynamic! However, I did not like one of the tropes in here (my fault I didn’t see it before I read the book). BUT what I will say is, I feel like this trope was done well.
I really enjoyed the plot throughout this book as well! However, I do wish there was just a little bit more of the “football” aspect to the book!
Overall, I’d recommend but please check your TW as this is on the darker side of sports romances.
Spice: 3-3.5🌶️
😮💨 was this a spicy good time!
I’ve never read a book by this author, and this duet is just the start of the ones by her I am going to read!
I love a good football romance, however like other sports romances (or most of them), they tend to lack character depth. This book 100% gave the character depth that I needed!
I loved our main characters dynamic! However, I did not like one of the tropes in here (my fault I didn’t see it before I read the book). BUT what I will say is, I feel like this trope was done well.
I really enjoyed the plot throughout this book as well! However, I do wish there was just a little bit more of the “football” aspect to the book!
Overall, I’d recommend but please check your TW as this is on the darker side of sports romances.
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