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Walker University #2
Cross-Check
One wrong move on the ice can shatter dreams—but what about matters of the heart?
Kellan Cooper’s hockey career has always been his anchor, but after losing his best friend and his confidence, he’s skating on thin ice. Determined to prove he’s more than his mistakes, Kellan is focused on redemption—until he meets Cora James. She’s bold, driven, and utterly off-limits. She’s also his team captain’s little sister, a complication he doesn’t need but can’t seem to resist.
For Cora, college is her chance to step out of the shadows of her overprotective family and claim her independence. But her carefully laid plans are thrown into chaos when Kellan crashes into her life. Beneath his cocky exterior is a man grappling with his own demons, and every moment with him leaves her questioning where her loyalties—and her heart—truly lie.
As forbidden lines blur, Kellan and Cora must decide if the risk of breaking the rules is worth the reward of finding themselves—and each other. But with reputations, relationships, and futures on the line, will their love be the ultimate victory, or just another loss?
For fans of The Deal by Elle Kennedy and Icebreaker by Hannah Grace, Cross Check delivers a captivating mix of passion, redemption, and heart. Get your copy today and experience the thrill of a love worth fighting for.
Kellan Cooper’s hockey career has always been his anchor, but after losing his best friend and his confidence, he’s skating on thin ice. Determined to prove he’s more than his mistakes, Kellan is focused on redemption—until he meets Cora James. She’s bold, driven, and utterly off-limits. She’s also his team captain’s little sister, a complication he doesn’t need but can’t seem to resist.
For Cora, college is her chance to step out of the shadows of her overprotective family and claim her independence. But her carefully laid plans are thrown into chaos when Kellan crashes into her life. Beneath his cocky exterior is a man grappling with his own demons, and every moment with him leaves her questioning where her loyalties—and her heart—truly lie.
As forbidden lines blur, Kellan and Cora must decide if the risk of breaking the rules is worth the reward of finding themselves—and each other. But with reputations, relationships, and futures on the line, will their love be the ultimate victory, or just another loss?
For fans of The Deal by Elle Kennedy and Icebreaker by Hannah Grace, Cross Check delivers a captivating mix of passion, redemption, and heart. Get your copy today and experience the thrill of a love worth fighting for.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2025
194 people are currently reading
330 people want to read
About the author
Cala Riley
56 books725 followersCala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.
Check out our linktree for more information:
https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley
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https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley
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![Profile Image for joni ౨ৎ - [semi hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1752411492i%2F167534965._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 3, 2025
જ⁀➴ 2.3 stars ⋆⭒˚.⋆
⤿ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 may 9
⤿ 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 may 11
arc review
release date: may 13 💌
⁀➴ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
🏒 hockey romance
💙 teammate’s little sister
🏒 insta-love
💙 found family
🏒 redemption
this is just my opinion and everyone’s allowed to feel differently about books 🫶
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
potential spoilers below
just no.
so i originally thought this would a cute, silly, fun hockey romcom. the cover IS pretty so give some points for that. but other than the potential to be great and the nice cover… this fell flat. it was compared to “icebreaker” and “the deal” both of which already have controversy, but this didn’t even feel entertaining, those at least had some drama and interesting events happening. kellan and cora didn’t give me anything.
the romance felt way too insta-lovey, which if you know me i absolutely despise unless in very specific scenarios it works. i think reading the previous book may have changed my opinion of this but imo it would’ve just made me dislike kellan more.
cora was just not likeable, she was heads over heels in love with kellan within a week? maybe a bit more but nothing was consistent in this story, like something would go wrong but they wouldn’t actually fix the issue, just move on.
cora completely lied to him for so long in their ‘relationship’ knowing all the issues he’s having with her brother and his ex-bsf. like girl please. and then it just felt like an amateur on hockey wrote this, they’d (the two best friend authors) would add random pieces of sayings in between the dialogue which wouldn’t add up, i would add a quote but i didn’t think there was a point to do so.
the humour in this book? it was NOT giving 19/20 year olds. i don’t know how old the authors are but it felt like millennials or something forcing things into this book. which did not work at all. i just think this book was missing the wow factor and could have really ended at the 30% mark.
30% mark - they ALREADY had a pointless argument and broke up during their… second date? because cora really thought kellan would only kiss her so her brother and his girlfriend would see. wow miss thinks she’s the centre of the world.
and mind you kellan had anxiety throughout the whole book, constant chest paint and feeling worried. which - the girl who changed his life for the better, shouldn’t she see some signs? like at least be worried for your man please. at the very end he falls and has like a panic attack where they tell him this. he also felt insecure in the relationship and she didn’t really help him with that. like he felt worthless of her and he wasn’t really reassured.
not even going to use my usual format because i don’t think it’s worth it.
overall i personally do not recommend.
🤍┆‧₊˚ ⋅* 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ౨ৎ
this looked so cute and i loved the tropes when i saw thiss <33
⤿ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 may 10
release date: may 13 💌
thank you to love note pr for a digital arc!!
⤿ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 may 9
⤿ 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 may 11
arc review
release date: may 13 💌
⁀➴ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
🏒 hockey romance
💙 teammate’s little sister
🏒 insta-love
💙 found family
🏒 redemption
this is just my opinion and everyone’s allowed to feel differently about books 🫶
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
potential spoilers below
just no.
so i originally thought this would a cute, silly, fun hockey romcom. the cover IS pretty so give some points for that. but other than the potential to be great and the nice cover… this fell flat. it was compared to “icebreaker” and “the deal” both of which already have controversy, but this didn’t even feel entertaining, those at least had some drama and interesting events happening. kellan and cora didn’t give me anything.
the romance felt way too insta-lovey, which if you know me i absolutely despise unless in very specific scenarios it works. i think reading the previous book may have changed my opinion of this but imo it would’ve just made me dislike kellan more.
cora was just not likeable, she was heads over heels in love with kellan within a week? maybe a bit more but nothing was consistent in this story, like something would go wrong but they wouldn’t actually fix the issue, just move on.
cora completely lied to him for so long in their ‘relationship’ knowing all the issues he’s having with her brother and his ex-bsf. like girl please. and then it just felt like an amateur on hockey wrote this, they’d (the two best friend authors) would add random pieces of sayings in between the dialogue which wouldn’t add up, i would add a quote but i didn’t think there was a point to do so.
the humour in this book? it was NOT giving 19/20 year olds. i don’t know how old the authors are but it felt like millennials or something forcing things into this book. which did not work at all. i just think this book was missing the wow factor and could have really ended at the 30% mark.
30% mark - they ALREADY had a pointless argument and broke up during their… second date? because cora really thought kellan would only kiss her so her brother and his girlfriend would see. wow miss thinks she’s the centre of the world.
and mind you kellan had anxiety throughout the whole book, constant chest paint and feeling worried. which - the girl who changed his life for the better, shouldn’t she see some signs? like at least be worried for your man please. at the very end he falls and has like a panic attack where they tell him this. he also felt insecure in the relationship and she didn’t really help him with that. like he felt worthless of her and he wasn’t really reassured.
not even going to use my usual format because i don’t think it’s worth it.
overall i personally do not recommend.
🤍┆‧₊˚ ⋅* 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ౨ৎ
this looked so cute and i loved the tropes when i saw thiss <33
⤿ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 may 10
release date: may 13 💌
thank you to love note pr for a digital arc!!
![Profile Image for madi [semi-ia] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1753299608i%2F164509151._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 20, 2025
this was such a letdown. i went in expecting a messy, addictive hockey romance and instead i got a storyline that felt like it was being made up as it went. i kept waiting for something to happen—tension, conflict, literally anything—but it never did.
cora felt like a placeholder love interest. her choices didn’t make sense, her personality was all over the place, and for someone who supposedly cared, she spent most of the book hiding things and avoiding any real accountability. i couldn’t connect with her at all, and honestly? it felt like she was more into the idea of being in love than actually being with kellan.
kellan didn’t feel like a fully developed character. he struggled with anxiety and self-worth, which could’ve been compelling, but none of it was explored deeply. it was like the book wanted to act like those things mattered without actually showing us how they affected him. he constantly seemed lost, and the romance did nothing to help that.
and the pacing? so rushed. emotions went from zero to one hundred with no build-up, fights happened and were instantly forgotten, and nothing felt earned. i needed more tension, more growth, just… more.
this had potential to be something good, but it ended up being extremely boring.
₊˚ ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · ♡ · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚₊
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ pre-read ♡⋆°｡⋆𐙚
⤷ the tropes had me so excited to read this, so i really hope i end up loving it 🤭
cora felt like a placeholder love interest. her choices didn’t make sense, her personality was all over the place, and for someone who supposedly cared, she spent most of the book hiding things and avoiding any real accountability. i couldn’t connect with her at all, and honestly? it felt like she was more into the idea of being in love than actually being with kellan.
kellan didn’t feel like a fully developed character. he struggled with anxiety and self-worth, which could’ve been compelling, but none of it was explored deeply. it was like the book wanted to act like those things mattered without actually showing us how they affected him. he constantly seemed lost, and the romance did nothing to help that.
and the pacing? so rushed. emotions went from zero to one hundred with no build-up, fights happened and were instantly forgotten, and nothing felt earned. i needed more tension, more growth, just… more.
this had potential to be something good, but it ended up being extremely boring.
₊˚ ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · ♡ · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚₊
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ pre-read ♡⋆°｡⋆𐙚
⤷ the tropes had me so excited to read this, so i really hope i end up loving it 🤭
May 12, 2025
✨️ARC Read
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶
HEA: Happy Ending
❗️Safety and Spoilers Below ❗️
📌 Triggers: Anxiety (on-page) Mentions of Foster Care & Social Work
📌 MMC was best friends with a girl named Grace (A year before the story takes place). He thought he was in love with Grace, yet he was still dating/sleeping with other girls. His behavior was hurtful to Grace, and this caused them to have a falling out. MMC spent some time reflecting on his mistakes (being celibate) and now wants to make amends with Grace and everyone else that he hurt. He does this by apologizing and showing them that he's a better person.
📌 FMC has a brother named Clay. Clay is teammates with MMC and is also dating Grace. FMC is also friends with Grace. This causes a bit of drama, as Clay and Grace have had negative experiences with MMC in the past.
📌 MMC was a manwhore but after some self-reflection, changed his way. MMC is not in love with Grace, he only feels guilty for how he treated her. FMC isn't jealous about anything and only wants everyone to make amends.
📌 No OMD: FMC has dated in the past and is experienced.
📌 No Third-act Breakup
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶
HEA: Happy Ending
❗️Safety and Spoilers Below ❗️
📌 Triggers: Anxiety (on-page) Mentions of Foster Care & Social Work
📌 MMC was best friends with a girl named Grace (A year before the story takes place). He thought he was in love with Grace, yet he was still dating/sleeping with other girls. His behavior was hurtful to Grace, and this caused them to have a falling out. MMC spent some time reflecting on his mistakes (being celibate) and now wants to make amends with Grace and everyone else that he hurt. He does this by apologizing and showing them that he's a better person.
📌 FMC has a brother named Clay. Clay is teammates with MMC and is also dating Grace. FMC is also friends with Grace. This causes a bit of drama, as Clay and Grace have had negative experiences with MMC in the past.
📌 MMC was a manwhore but after some self-reflection, changed his way. MMC is not in love with Grace, he only feels guilty for how he treated her. FMC isn't jealous about anything and only wants everyone to make amends.
📌 No OMD: FMC has dated in the past and is experienced.
📌 No Third-act Breakup
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR for the ARC of Cross Check!
Unfortunately, this is going to be a veryyy generous 2.75 for me. It’s marketed for fans of Icebreaker and The Deal, so I was super excited to open it up and get reading, as the tropes are right up my alley.
About 20% of the way into this one, I knew that I wasn’t going to love it as much as I expected. I felt like the first 35% of the book could have easily been stretched and written more in-depth, and would’ve sufficed as the entirety of the story if done.
It’s very insta-love, and Cora’s brother finds out about them very early on, and everything after that feels like filler. The maturity level of both characters leaves something to be desired, and it’s odd that we’re thinking about marrying the person we only met for a few hours.
Overall, this book will probably be enjoyed by younger readers, but was not for me.
Unfortunately, this is going to be a veryyy generous 2.75 for me. It’s marketed for fans of Icebreaker and The Deal, so I was super excited to open it up and get reading, as the tropes are right up my alley.
About 20% of the way into this one, I knew that I wasn’t going to love it as much as I expected. I felt like the first 35% of the book could have easily been stretched and written more in-depth, and would’ve sufficed as the entirety of the story if done.
It’s very insta-love, and Cora’s brother finds out about them very early on, and everything after that feels like filler. The maturity level of both characters leaves something to be desired, and it’s odd that we’re thinking about marrying the person we only met for a few hours.
Overall, this book will probably be enjoyed by younger readers, but was not for me.
May 9, 2025
I wanted to like this so badly, to find a redeeming qualitity in Kallan, but unfortunately it didn't meet my expectations.
I don't find it possible that after everything that happened in book 1, Clay was so fast to forgive Kallan and accept him dating his sister.
The book focused mainly on Kallan regretting what he did to Grace and not so much on the insta-love with Cora.
Thank you Love Notes PR, all opinions are my own
I don't find it possible that after everything that happened in book 1, Clay was so fast to forgive Kallan and accept him dating his sister.
The book focused mainly on Kallan regretting what he did to Grace and not so much on the insta-love with Cora.
Thank you Love Notes PR, all opinions are my own
May 14, 2025
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Kellan and Cora’s story.
Kellan is a reformed playboy, who confused his feelings for his best fiend Grace, as love, and needed to work out that he loved her as a friend only. Cora is in her first year at university, and she meets Kellan at a party, and there is an instant attraction between them. Cora soon finds out that Kellan is on the hockey team, where her brother Clay, is the teams captain, and he is dating Grace, while Kellan is determined to make amends for his past behaviour.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, challenges, redemption, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, and heartwarming, page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Kellan is a reformed playboy, who confused his feelings for his best fiend Grace, as love, and needed to work out that he loved her as a friend only. Cora is in her first year at university, and she meets Kellan at a party, and there is an instant attraction between them. Cora soon finds out that Kellan is on the hockey team, where her brother Clay, is the teams captain, and he is dating Grace, while Kellan is determined to make amends for his past behaviour.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, challenges, redemption, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, and heartwarming, page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 30, 2025
I want to start by saying that I give this book a 4.5 ⭐️ rating!Of course, I can’t add that specifically.
I LOVE a hockey romance and I jumped so fast at the ARC sign up.
I will preface by saying that I have not read the first book in the Walker University series (Iced) however, these book can be read as a standalone. Would I recommend doing that? Probably not, reading them in order will give you more a in-depth insight into the characters, however, it isn’t that big a deal if you do. I have now secured the first book and will be adding that to my May reads list!
I cannot tell you how much I loved this book. There was love, heartache, redemption, spice (we love to see it) and so much more. If you enjoyed Icebreaker by Hannah Grace - this is the book for you!
Kellan and Cora’s story was so beautifully written and it was really hard to put this down once I started. An absolutely stellar read and I cannot wait to pick up Iced, and eventually, the third book in the series - Breakout.
Sleep: 0
Cala Riley: 1
Tropes:
Teammates little sister
College Hockey
Found Family
Redemption
I LOVE a hockey romance and I jumped so fast at the ARC sign up.
I will preface by saying that I have not read the first book in the Walker University series (Iced) however, these book can be read as a standalone. Would I recommend doing that? Probably not, reading them in order will give you more a in-depth insight into the characters, however, it isn’t that big a deal if you do. I have now secured the first book and will be adding that to my May reads list!
I cannot tell you how much I loved this book. There was love, heartache, redemption, spice (we love to see it) and so much more. If you enjoyed Icebreaker by Hannah Grace - this is the book for you!
Kellan and Cora’s story was so beautifully written and it was really hard to put this down once I started. An absolutely stellar read and I cannot wait to pick up Iced, and eventually, the third book in the series - Breakout.
Sleep: 0
Cala Riley: 1
Tropes:
Teammates little sister
College Hockey
Found Family
Redemption
May 10, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR for giving me this ARC in exchange of an honest review.
Actual rating 3.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed myself with this, it was such am easy and fast read! The only problem for me was how much it was centered around insta-love... I usually don't have a problem with this but it felt really weird sometimes with this book. Either way I had a good time and I would recommend this as an easy and fun read!
Actual rating 3.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed myself with this, it was such am easy and fast read! The only problem for me was how much it was centered around insta-love... I usually don't have a problem with this but it felt really weird sometimes with this book. Either way I had a good time and I would recommend this as an easy and fun read!
April 29, 2025
★★★★☆ | 2🌶️
This second book in the series was a total hat trick—Romance, Drama, and Heart all wrapped into one! I couldn't put it down and hit the final buzzer before I even realized. The pacing was spot on and kept me hooked from beginning to end.
Score: Cala Riley 1 : Sleep 0
It was so satisfying to see Kellan redeem himself in this one. The banter between Kellan and Cora was great, and their growth felt authentic and earned. I also really appreciated the raw, real portrayal of college life—because honestly, who really knows what they want at that age?
A huge shoutout for the incorporation of anxiety, especially in a male character. It was done with care and depth, and added another layer to Kellan’s arc.
Also, can we talk about Wyatt for a second? He might just be my favorite side character—I can’t wait to read more about him!
*ARC REVIEW
This second book in the series was a total hat trick—Romance, Drama, and Heart all wrapped into one! I couldn't put it down and hit the final buzzer before I even realized. The pacing was spot on and kept me hooked from beginning to end.
Score: Cala Riley 1 : Sleep 0
It was so satisfying to see Kellan redeem himself in this one. The banter between Kellan and Cora was great, and their growth felt authentic and earned. I also really appreciated the raw, real portrayal of college life—because honestly, who really knows what they want at that age?
A huge shoutout for the incorporation of anxiety, especially in a male character. It was done with care and depth, and added another layer to Kellan’s arc.
Also, can we talk about Wyatt for a second? He might just be my favorite side character—I can’t wait to read more about him!
*ARC REVIEW
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2025
Arc review
Okay I won’t lie I was initially super nervous going into this one because let’s be honest anyone who read Iced did not come out of that as a Kellan fan. Haha great job to the girls for having me at the end of this one absolutely melting for this man thank god for a redemption arc!
This was the sweetest book ever. The way Kellan was with Cora was just not what I was expecting at all. I really enjoyed watching his character development throughout and just seeing how much he’d changed in that year between books. If you’re a fan of the Insta love trope this one’s definitely for you. I did enjoy it however personally I would’ve loved a little more tension between the MC’s or even between Clay and Kellan. I felt like any of the speed bumps along the way were resolved super quickly.
I enjoyed Cora a lot I thought she was very emotionally mature for her age and I loved watching her follow her heart.
I’m very excited for book 3 I can already tell it’s going to be amazing! 🤭
Okay I won’t lie I was initially super nervous going into this one because let’s be honest anyone who read Iced did not come out of that as a Kellan fan. Haha great job to the girls for having me at the end of this one absolutely melting for this man thank god for a redemption arc!
This was the sweetest book ever. The way Kellan was with Cora was just not what I was expecting at all. I really enjoyed watching his character development throughout and just seeing how much he’d changed in that year between books. If you’re a fan of the Insta love trope this one’s definitely for you. I did enjoy it however personally I would’ve loved a little more tension between the MC’s or even between Clay and Kellan. I felt like any of the speed bumps along the way were resolved super quickly.
I enjoyed Cora a lot I thought she was very emotionally mature for her age and I loved watching her follow her heart.
I’m very excited for book 3 I can already tell it’s going to be amazing! 🤭
May 14, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
“𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆…𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄.”
This is the second book in the “Walker University Wolves” series…and where we first get to meet Kellan, our MMC. You don’t have to read the first book to understand or read this one…they are interconnected stand-alones…BUT…you do get a lot of backstory on Kellan that I think is important going into this book. Like the situation with his best friend Grace and everything that Cora knows about him.
Kellan…. *rubs my temples* look…I get this is supposed to be his redemption book…but no. I give him no redemption and just…no. I hated him in the last book and while he showed some growth in this book, I still couldn’t get over everything. In this book we find him falling for the sweet FMC , Cora. It isn’t until after they’ve gotten together that he realises she’s the little sister of his teams captain.
Ok…look….the book was…OK. And I hate writing reviews like this. Because I truly enjoyed the first book. I think the authors are AMAZING…but this book just didn’t come together for me the way I hoped.
Let’s put aside my dislike for the MMC…most times I can get over there past transgressions when they evolve. And I’ll give grace because these are college kids…none of us were fully using our brains in college. The amount of dumb things I did and said in college could fill an amusement park. So that’s not even where the book fell apart for me.
The main trope in this book is brothers best friend. And it’s one of my favorite. I love the tension, the sneaking , the angst that comes with the should we shouldn’t we have it all. But we have NONE of that. At about 10% into the book , Cora’s brother knows and is like…cool. Have fun. 😩 that’s it. That’s the book. There was nothing more after that other than watching Kellan focus more on how he’s too afraid to speak to his best friend, Grace, after the big mess he made with her in the first book. He focused more on Grace than he did on Cora and at times it left me wondering if we were going to have a switcharoo and have Grace and Kellan get together. It was very confusing.
And…again…not hate or disrespect to the author but…there was quite a bit of confusion on how hockey works…periods vs quarters ? It took me out of the moment when I was reading.
I think a lot of people were let down because this was marketed as being similar to Ice Breaker and The Deal…and it was nothing like either of those books. I think it’s a little dangerous to compare your books while marketing to other very popular books because it sets expectations which almost always can’t be met.
The feel of the book seems like it’s for more of a younger audience…like the range of 18-20. It has its spicy moments. It has some heart felt moments. It wasn’t for me but it wasn’t TERRIBLE…definitely give it a shot if it seems like your kind of vibe 💙
🏒Hockey Romance
💙Captains Little Sister
🏒Anxiety Rep
💙Found Family
🏒Insta-Love
💙Redemption
🏒Friends to Lovers
💙Forbidden
🏒Dual POV
💙HEA
“𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆…𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄.”
This is the second book in the “Walker University Wolves” series…and where we first get to meet Kellan, our MMC. You don’t have to read the first book to understand or read this one…they are interconnected stand-alones…BUT…you do get a lot of backstory on Kellan that I think is important going into this book. Like the situation with his best friend Grace and everything that Cora knows about him.
Kellan…. *rubs my temples* look…I get this is supposed to be his redemption book…but no. I give him no redemption and just…no. I hated him in the last book and while he showed some growth in this book, I still couldn’t get over everything. In this book we find him falling for the sweet FMC , Cora. It isn’t until after they’ve gotten together that he realises she’s the little sister of his teams captain.
Ok…look….the book was…OK. And I hate writing reviews like this. Because I truly enjoyed the first book. I think the authors are AMAZING…but this book just didn’t come together for me the way I hoped.
Let’s put aside my dislike for the MMC…most times I can get over there past transgressions when they evolve. And I’ll give grace because these are college kids…none of us were fully using our brains in college. The amount of dumb things I did and said in college could fill an amusement park. So that’s not even where the book fell apart for me.
The main trope in this book is brothers best friend. And it’s one of my favorite. I love the tension, the sneaking , the angst that comes with the should we shouldn’t we have it all. But we have NONE of that. At about 10% into the book , Cora’s brother knows and is like…cool. Have fun. 😩 that’s it. That’s the book. There was nothing more after that other than watching Kellan focus more on how he’s too afraid to speak to his best friend, Grace, after the big mess he made with her in the first book. He focused more on Grace than he did on Cora and at times it left me wondering if we were going to have a switcharoo and have Grace and Kellan get together. It was very confusing.
And…again…not hate or disrespect to the author but…there was quite a bit of confusion on how hockey works…periods vs quarters ? It took me out of the moment when I was reading.
I think a lot of people were let down because this was marketed as being similar to Ice Breaker and The Deal…and it was nothing like either of those books. I think it’s a little dangerous to compare your books while marketing to other very popular books because it sets expectations which almost always can’t be met.
The feel of the book seems like it’s for more of a younger audience…like the range of 18-20. It has its spicy moments. It has some heart felt moments. It wasn’t for me but it wasn’t TERRIBLE…definitely give it a shot if it seems like your kind of vibe 💙
🏒Hockey Romance
💙Captains Little Sister
🏒Anxiety Rep
💙Found Family
🏒Insta-Love
💙Redemption
🏒Friends to Lovers
💙Forbidden
🏒Dual POV
💙HEA
May 13, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Okay, I’m not even gonna lie—I devoured this book. Like actually ate it up. It pulled me right out of my one-month reading slump, and that should tell you everything!! I finished it in just a few hours, and I didn’t even realize time had passed. I loved the dedication!!
Cora? She’s such a gem. Sweet, kind, non-judgy, and so full of love for the people around her. I genuinely wanted to go into the book and give her a big hug. 🫂 The way the author wrote her? Soooo good!!! It’s impossible not to love her.
And Kellan… MY HEART. 😫😫 The way he respects Cora’s space and never rushes her?? Ugh. He’s such a gentleman, so thoughtful, so patient, and honestly, he's amazing!!! Total book boyfriend material. I love him!! And the way he loved Cora made me wonder if someone will ever love me the way he loved her!! 🫶🫶😭🫂
Kellan’s mom and Cora’s mom? Literal angels. I loved how supportive and understanding they were.
And Grace!! She was such a sweetheart and the way she always stood by Cora—loved that.
Peyton and Cora’s friendship was so wholesome. Peyton’s sarcasm and wit had me laughing out loud. She’s hilarious, no doubt about it!! 😂😘
Now, Clay—he’s adorable but also so annoying sometimes with his overprotectiveness. Like I get it, big brother duties, but Cora had every right to be mad at him. And that one scene where he made his friends say stuff to her. 😑🙄 (iykyk, but nonetheless it was cute!)… I wanted to pinch his cheeks and smack him at the same time.
Wyatt was very intriguing and i want to get more of him, and Brett lowkey made me laugh with his random moments. And honestly, I was really curious about Peyton and Beckett! I NEED answers!! I’m so curious.
If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted read filled with drama, emotions, friendship, and a bit of everything, Cross Check is your next pick. So, so worth it! 😉 Hats off to the author!! You're amazing babes!! 🫶🫶🫶🫂🫂
Okay, I’m not even gonna lie—I devoured this book. Like actually ate it up. It pulled me right out of my one-month reading slump, and that should tell you everything!! I finished it in just a few hours, and I didn’t even realize time had passed. I loved the dedication!!
Cora? She’s such a gem. Sweet, kind, non-judgy, and so full of love for the people around her. I genuinely wanted to go into the book and give her a big hug. 🫂 The way the author wrote her? Soooo good!!! It’s impossible not to love her.
And Kellan… MY HEART. 😫😫 The way he respects Cora’s space and never rushes her?? Ugh. He’s such a gentleman, so thoughtful, so patient, and honestly, he's amazing!!! Total book boyfriend material. I love him!! And the way he loved Cora made me wonder if someone will ever love me the way he loved her!! 🫶🫶😭🫂
Kellan’s mom and Cora’s mom? Literal angels. I loved how supportive and understanding they were.
And Grace!! She was such a sweetheart and the way she always stood by Cora—loved that.
Peyton and Cora’s friendship was so wholesome. Peyton’s sarcasm and wit had me laughing out loud. She’s hilarious, no doubt about it!! 😂😘
Now, Clay—he’s adorable but also so annoying sometimes with his overprotectiveness. Like I get it, big brother duties, but Cora had every right to be mad at him. And that one scene where he made his friends say stuff to her. 😑🙄 (iykyk, but nonetheless it was cute!)… I wanted to pinch his cheeks and smack him at the same time.
Wyatt was very intriguing and i want to get more of him, and Brett lowkey made me laugh with his random moments. And honestly, I was really curious about Peyton and Beckett! I NEED answers!! I’m so curious.
If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted read filled with drama, emotions, friendship, and a bit of everything, Cross Check is your next pick. So, so worth it! 😉 Hats off to the author!! You're amazing babes!! 🫶🫶🫶🫂🫂
April 29, 2025
Cross-Check 🏒
Firstly,I want to thank Cala Riley & LoveNotes Pr for giving me such an opportunity with this ARC.
To start with,I want to point out that,obviously,it is a hockey romance,however I found it so,so comforting.Here is why:
Riley's writing was simple,understanding and lovely,she just made me fall in love so easily with her story,without giving too much.Too much romance,info or plot that will overstimulate the reader,just a beautiful story.
Her characters,were new adults,and we felt that-in a good way.We don;t have a story that kids are behaving like adults,mastering life,relationships and everything.We see kids who make mistakes,fall crazy in love,have worries and much more,so If you ask me, that spoke to my heart,seeing new adults behaving like ones.Plus,she had so many representations in her book and I am sure everyone will feel seen and,most importantly respected.
About the main characters,they had the BEST chemistry going on ,not only when the deed 🌶️happened,but on their romance in general.They were humans,friends,lovers all at once and as a reader you truly felt that-yes,that was a tear coming out of my eye.
To end with,the SMUT🌶️.
Oh.My.God.
Those scenes.
Gimme more
I think you have more than understand what was going on😮💨
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank Cala Riley & LoveNotes Pr for giving me such an opportunity with this ARC.
To start with,I want to point out that,obviously,it is a hockey romance,however I found it so,so comforting.Here is why:
Riley's writing was simple,understanding and lovely,she just made me fall in love so easily with her story,without giving too much.Too much romance,info or plot that will overstimulate the reader,just a beautiful story.
Her characters,were new adults,and we felt that-in a good way.We don;t have a story that kids are behaving like adults,mastering life,relationships and everything.We see kids who make mistakes,fall crazy in love,have worries and much more,so If you ask me, that spoke to my heart,seeing new adults behaving like ones.Plus,she had so many representations in her book and I am sure everyone will feel seen and,most importantly respected.
About the main characters,they had the BEST chemistry going on ,not only when the deed 🌶️happened,but on their romance in general.They were humans,friends,lovers all at once and as a reader you truly felt that-yes,that was a tear coming out of my eye.
To end with,the SMUT🌶️.
Oh.My.God.
Those scenes.
Gimme more
I think you have more than understand what was going on😮💨
4⭐
May 3, 2025
Cross-Check by Cala Riley
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
Hockey romance? Love. Written by Cala Riley? Even better.
The way these ladies have crafted Cora and Kellan’s characters is perfect. They didn’t make them feel too old, like many romance books do; instead, they felt like college-aged kids figuring things out as they go.
Going into this book knowing it was about Kellan, I felt he had to earn my respect due to the chaos he caused in the last book, and boy did he ever. His growth, while acknowledging his wrongs, taking responsibility, and making amends, was admirable. I also enjoyed how he gave credit to Cora, but also to himself, by choosing to be better and apologizing to those he hurt.
Cora was an insta-love character for me. Getting a little snippet in the first book was great, but seeing her passion for such vulnerable children made me love her even more. I felt for her, trying to navigate what she wants to do due to not having many choices as a kid because of Clay’s hockey dreams, without being resentful about them. I was proud of her for making a choice solely for herself, and watching Clay go into big brother mode was funny, but seeing his respect for her choice, along with his nervousness, was sweet.
I loved that Cora and Kellan started off as friends without knowing they were already connected.
I love the moments we see all the characters together, and I can’t wait to see what trouble Peyton gets herself into for book three.
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
Hockey romance? Love. Written by Cala Riley? Even better.
The way these ladies have crafted Cora and Kellan’s characters is perfect. They didn’t make them feel too old, like many romance books do; instead, they felt like college-aged kids figuring things out as they go.
Going into this book knowing it was about Kellan, I felt he had to earn my respect due to the chaos he caused in the last book, and boy did he ever. His growth, while acknowledging his wrongs, taking responsibility, and making amends, was admirable. I also enjoyed how he gave credit to Cora, but also to himself, by choosing to be better and apologizing to those he hurt.
Cora was an insta-love character for me. Getting a little snippet in the first book was great, but seeing her passion for such vulnerable children made me love her even more. I felt for her, trying to navigate what she wants to do due to not having many choices as a kid because of Clay’s hockey dreams, without being resentful about them. I was proud of her for making a choice solely for herself, and watching Clay go into big brother mode was funny, but seeing his respect for her choice, along with his nervousness, was sweet.
I loved that Cora and Kellan started off as friends without knowing they were already connected.
I love the moments we see all the characters together, and I can’t wait to see what trouble Peyton gets herself into for book three.
May 13, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This book is my favorite redemption story for a character ever!
Kellen was introduced in Iced (book 1) as a side character who is selfish, arrogant and oblivious to how horrible he treats his BFF Grace until it blows up in his face when she starts dating his Captain, Clayton.
This book starts with Kellen being at his own rock bottom with his team not caring about him, no BFF and lost on how to move forward in life.
Cora is a freshman who is unsure if she belongs at college while forging her own path outside of her brother’s shadow. Yeah, her brother is Clayton - captain of the hockey team.
When Kellen and Cora meet at a party and hit it off without exchanging names everything seems too good to be true. When Cora learns his name, she is hit with a OMG moment bc she knows he’s the guy who tried to come between her brother and his girlfriend the previous year.
While she keeps this to herself at first, it soon comes out and we see how Kellen and Cora truly feel about each other to overcome the awkwardness of this situation.
Kellen’s growth throughout the book is so well done and has you rooting for the “bad guy” which is so rare! Cora has her own growth that is refreshing as it’s for herself and no one else.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more about these characters in the next book!
This book is my favorite redemption story for a character ever!
Kellen was introduced in Iced (book 1) as a side character who is selfish, arrogant and oblivious to how horrible he treats his BFF Grace until it blows up in his face when she starts dating his Captain, Clayton.
This book starts with Kellen being at his own rock bottom with his team not caring about him, no BFF and lost on how to move forward in life.
Cora is a freshman who is unsure if she belongs at college while forging her own path outside of her brother’s shadow. Yeah, her brother is Clayton - captain of the hockey team.
When Kellen and Cora meet at a party and hit it off without exchanging names everything seems too good to be true. When Cora learns his name, she is hit with a OMG moment bc she knows he’s the guy who tried to come between her brother and his girlfriend the previous year.
While she keeps this to herself at first, it soon comes out and we see how Kellen and Cora truly feel about each other to overcome the awkwardness of this situation.
Kellen’s growth throughout the book is so well done and has you rooting for the “bad guy” which is so rare! Cora has her own growth that is refreshing as it’s for herself and no one else.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more about these characters in the next book!
May 4, 2025
First, thanks Cala Riley and Love Notes PR for this ARC 💌
I LOVED this book! It was completely different from all the other hockey romances I’ve read – and in the best way. Kellan absolutely stole the show. His redemption arc was incredibly well written – mature, believable, and so satisfying. He was hands down the MVP of this story.
Cora was amazing too. I admired how she stood her ground and went after what she truly wanted. Their love story was beautiful, and I was hooked on their connection from the very beginning.
Spicy scenes were great and I LOVED that there was not third-act breakup. It was not necessary to add it and there was a bit of drama that it was enough! Thanks Cala Riley!
The friend group dynamic added so much warmth and fun – I loved everything about it. I do wish we had gotten to see their Christmas together, to see Cora meeting Kellan’s parents, but I’m thrilled there’s a book three coming! I adore Peyton and can’t wait to hopefully reunite with all the characters again!
Huge congrats to the author! 💖💖💖 this book was incredible!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I LOVED this book! It was completely different from all the other hockey romances I’ve read – and in the best way. Kellan absolutely stole the show. His redemption arc was incredibly well written – mature, believable, and so satisfying. He was hands down the MVP of this story.
Cora was amazing too. I admired how she stood her ground and went after what she truly wanted. Their love story was beautiful, and I was hooked on their connection from the very beginning.
Spicy scenes were great and I LOVED that there was not third-act breakup. It was not necessary to add it and there was a bit of drama that it was enough! Thanks Cala Riley!
The friend group dynamic added so much warmth and fun – I loved everything about it. I do wish we had gotten to see their Christmas together, to see Cora meeting Kellan’s parents, but I’m thrilled there’s a book three coming! I adore Peyton and can’t wait to hopefully reunite with all the characters again!
Huge congrats to the author! 💖💖💖 this book was incredible!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 21, 2025
Book 2 in the Walker University series.
4.25 Stars
2 spice, purely for Mr Cooper's dirty mouth
I loved this book, and I love Kellan Cooper even more (which I didn't think I'd say after reading Iced).
We all love a redemption arc, and Kellan got his in spades, with Clay's sister, Cora, no less. Their chemistry, fiery, from the moment they met.
I loved Cora. Such a sweet, sensitive soul. She found her voice by the end as well and was on the right path for her, not doing as her brother and mum wanted.
The friendships Kellan formed with his team, especially Wyatt, were so lovely to watch, and his apologies to Clay and Grace were much needed, he even apologised to Satan's spawn, Monica. He is well and truly reformed.
The only negative would be how quickly Kellan turned nice, reformed guy and how Cora magically did that for him but I guess love does that to a person.
I couldn't put this down and got through it in 24 hours.
4.25 Stars
2 spice, purely for Mr Cooper's dirty mouth
I loved this book, and I love Kellan Cooper even more (which I didn't think I'd say after reading Iced).
We all love a redemption arc, and Kellan got his in spades, with Clay's sister, Cora, no less. Their chemistry, fiery, from the moment they met.
I loved Cora. Such a sweet, sensitive soul. She found her voice by the end as well and was on the right path for her, not doing as her brother and mum wanted.
The friendships Kellan formed with his team, especially Wyatt, were so lovely to watch, and his apologies to Clay and Grace were much needed, he even apologised to Satan's spawn, Monica. He is well and truly reformed.
The only negative would be how quickly Kellan turned nice, reformed guy and how Cora magically did that for him but I guess love does that to a person.
I couldn't put this down and got through it in 24 hours.
May 14, 2025
I knew you would look hella good with my name and number on your body.
I hated Kellan going into this story due to what happened in book 1 and was really skeptical about whether Cala Riley could redeem him. I will say, it took me a while and lot of character growth on Kellan’s part for me to put my hands up and admit that his redemption arc was amazing and I was wrong.
Other things that I loved were:
• That Grace’s and Kellan’s relationship wasn’t forced
•Kellan and Cora had to work for their relationship. I love that they had to earn that respect from one another, which then turned into feelings.
•That these two made mistakes because that’s what college aged kids do! It made it way more realistic.
•The found family aspect of this book
Tropes :
💜Hockey Romance
💜Teammates little sister
💜Found family
����College romance
💜Anxiety rep
P.S I NEED WYATT’S BOOK!!!
I hated Kellan going into this story due to what happened in book 1 and was really skeptical about whether Cala Riley could redeem him. I will say, it took me a while and lot of character growth on Kellan’s part for me to put my hands up and admit that his redemption arc was amazing and I was wrong.
Other things that I loved were:
• That Grace’s and Kellan’s relationship wasn’t forced
•Kellan and Cora had to work for their relationship. I love that they had to earn that respect from one another, which then turned into feelings.
•That these two made mistakes because that’s what college aged kids do! It made it way more realistic.
•The found family aspect of this book
Tropes :
💜Hockey Romance
💜Teammates little sister
💜Found family
����College romance
💜Anxiety rep
P.S I NEED WYATT’S BOOK!!!
May 12, 2025
4.5* - Rounded up to 5...
Kellan - what can I say. Considering where we saw his character in Iced, he certainly comes a LONG way in Cross Check. I absolutely LOVE his character growth!
And Cora - so different from Clay, and such a perfect partner for Kellan. I appreciate how she responds to Kellan, and how she uplifts and encourages him, and how she doesn't put herself down, but rather stands up for herself and her dreams! She really worked hard to achieve her dreams!
Overall, and truly remarkable story that will uplift readers, and provide hope for those of us who still need to grow a bit more like Kellan did...
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kellan - what can I say. Considering where we saw his character in Iced, he certainly comes a LONG way in Cross Check. I absolutely LOVE his character growth!
And Cora - so different from Clay, and such a perfect partner for Kellan. I appreciate how she responds to Kellan, and how she uplifts and encourages him, and how she doesn't put herself down, but rather stands up for herself and her dreams! She really worked hard to achieve her dreams!
Overall, and truly remarkable story that will uplift readers, and provide hope for those of us who still need to grow a bit more like Kellan did...
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2025
It was nice to see Kellan's redemption arc. Cross-Check starts soon after Iced ends with Kellan and Grace putting their friendship on hold. Kellan has taken some time and realizes that he loves Grace but only as his best friend. He wants to make it right with her but still needs some time. He meets Cora at a party and they have a pretty instant attraction but he wants to do it right. She realizes that he's on the hockey team and doesn't know her brother is Clay.
They get closer and their relationship develops. When Clay and Grace find out that Kellan and Cora are together, things get a little rough. Over time, Kellan makes amends and they try to get along.
They get closer and their relationship develops. When Clay and Grace find out that Kellan and Cora are together, things get a little rough. Over time, Kellan makes amends and they try to get along.
April 26, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes we love: reformed jerk, hockey romance, team mates sister, mental health rep
Wow!!! Kellan! Kellan! Kellan! I know we all love a reformed jerk. But this is perfect! At the end of Iced you start to see there might be potential in Kellan. Cora is very emotionally mature being fresh out of high school. I enjoyed many aspects of how this book was written. No third act breakup! Effective communication and supportive friends!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes we love: reformed jerk, hockey romance, team mates sister, mental health rep
Wow!!! Kellan! Kellan! Kellan! I know we all love a reformed jerk. But this is perfect! At the end of Iced you start to see there might be potential in Kellan. Cora is very emotionally mature being fresh out of high school. I enjoyed many aspects of how this book was written. No third act breakup! Effective communication and supportive friends!
May 4, 2025
First things first - HOCKEY HAS PERIODS NOT QUARTERS (The inaccuracies when it came to hockey were many in this book)
Now I will say I enjoyed the base story of this book, but I think it could have used some more development. The writing was difficult to follow at some points, and some of it was far stretched (I understand it's a book, but still I don't think I've ever heard of a drunk college guy waxing poetry to someone). I wouldn't read this one again, but I appreciated the opportunity to read it (Thank you Love Notes PR)
Now I will say I enjoyed the base story of this book, but I think it could have used some more development. The writing was difficult to follow at some points, and some of it was far stretched (I understand it's a book, but still I don't think I've ever heard of a drunk college guy waxing poetry to someone). I wouldn't read this one again, but I appreciated the opportunity to read it (Thank you Love Notes PR)
May 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It was so good to be back at Walker U. These characters are one big family that gives me all the feelings. Seriously, how I can be part of that family? Kellan had so much to make up for from the previous book and I’m so glad we got his story next. The growth we got to see with him and Cora was so good and sweet. You could feel the emotions on the page, from the joy, turmoil, reluctance, love all of it. Well done! Can’t wait to read book 3
Special shout out to the cameo from some of my favorite Cala Riley characters. I love it when authors sneak that in 💕
It was so good to be back at Walker U. These characters are one big family that gives me all the feelings. Seriously, how I can be part of that family? Kellan had so much to make up for from the previous book and I’m so glad we got his story next. The growth we got to see with him and Cora was so good and sweet. You could feel the emotions on the page, from the joy, turmoil, reluctance, love all of it. Well done! Can’t wait to read book 3
Special shout out to the cameo from some of my favorite Cala Riley characters. I love it when authors sneak that in 💕
May 15, 2025
Another sports romance? Yes, and soooo much more!!! Accepting a mistake might be halfway to redemption but willing to work on it to make it better is what makes the best people. Kellan Cooper wishing to leave his stormy year behind to explore a bright future is the kind of character development we all can appreciate. And Cora? She certainly made him better.
May 21, 2025
i love how they grow together and apart, how sweet is that <3
May 16, 2025
Tropes:
Teammates sibling
Instant feels
College hockey
Loved 🥰:
-easy to read, fast paced & fun
- how completely in Kellan was right from the start
- the growth that Kellan goes through especially that he knew he needed it, & it wasn’t for Cora but for himself
Liked ☺️:
- the slight introduction to k*nk
- really great communication
Why this wasn’t rated higher (for me personally)🤷🏻♀️:
- I wanted more scenes that were just Kellan & Cora. A lot of the chapters were the two of them separately and I would have liked more of them together
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range & Rep:
New adult romance
Teammates sibling
Instant feels
College hockey
Loved 🥰:
-easy to read, fast paced & fun
- how completely in Kellan was right from the start
- the growth that Kellan goes through especially that he knew he needed it, & it wasn’t for Cora but for himself
Liked ☺️:
- the slight introduction to k*nk
- really great communication
Why this wasn’t rated higher (for me personally)🤷🏻♀️:
- I wanted more scenes that were just Kellan & Cora. A lot of the chapters were the two of them separately and I would have liked more of them together
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range & Rep:
New adult romance
June 8, 2025
This book had me hooked from the first page! Kellan is the perfect mix of broken and bold, and watching him slowly open up to Cora was everything I wanted in a slow burn. Cora’s fierce independence and vulnerability made her so easy to root for. Their chemistry sizzled, but it was the emotional depth that truly made their connection shine. The forbidden romance trope was executed flawlessly, with just the right amount of tension and heart. I loved the themes of redemption, trust, and finding your own path. If you love hockey romance with heart, this one’s a total win!
August 8, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
work with the Department of Children and Families that involves the endangerment of children in detail (includes drugs and abuse), physical violence towards the FMC (not by the MMC), harassment from an ex, on ice incident, on page panic/anxiety attack, voyeurism
Excuse me, Kellan Cooper?! How DARE you attack my heart this way!! And without warning?! This is NOT the guy we were introduced to in book one! Also, Cora with her matching gentle heart and understanding! They were a dangerous duo for my heart! Their complicated “forbidden” connections weren’t complicated at all. Once they felt their own connection, it didn’t even matter. Kellan and Cora came into each other’s lives at exactly the right time, for exactly the right reason. And I LOVED that! Their flirting was adorable. Their bond was even sweeter. Their beautiful hearts. Their friendships and found family. And their chemistry?! Again, an attack on my heart without warning!
hotshot: 28
beautiful: 46
My Favorite Quotes:
• “I promise to pine for you if you pine for me.”
• “You are the epitome of beautiful.”
• “I knew you would look hella good with my name and number on your body.”
• “I only want to cuddle. I like having you in my arms.” “That’s too bad. I was hoping I could take you for a ride.”
• “I’m not most men, and you sure as hell aren’t most women.”
• “Look at me. The entire time I want your eyes on me.”
• “Can’t have you letting the whole dorm know whose c!ck you love. Gotta keep that good girl reputation intact.”
• “You love being dirty for me, don’t you?”
• “I will love you until my dying breath. There’s no option not to. You’re it for me.”
• “You want my d!ck?” “Yes.” “Come sit on my face then. Better fill that mouth with my c!ck before we get caught.”
• “Such a dirty girl. Taking my c!ck so well. Look at that greedy p!ssy sucking me in like she can’t get enough.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Forbidden
5/10 Slow Burn
8/10 Sports Romance
8/10 Series
This is my review for Iced
This is my review for Breakout
Trigger Warnings include:
work with the Department of Children and Families that involves the endangerment of children in detail (includes drugs and abuse), physical violence towards the FMC (not by the MMC), harassment from an ex, on ice incident, on page panic/anxiety attack, voyeurism
Excuse me, Kellan Cooper?! How DARE you attack my heart this way!! And without warning?! This is NOT the guy we were introduced to in book one! Also, Cora with her matching gentle heart and understanding! They were a dangerous duo for my heart! Their complicated “forbidden” connections weren’t complicated at all. Once they felt their own connection, it didn’t even matter. Kellan and Cora came into each other’s lives at exactly the right time, for exactly the right reason. And I LOVED that! Their flirting was adorable. Their bond was even sweeter. Their beautiful hearts. Their friendships and found family. And their chemistry?! Again, an attack on my heart without warning!
hotshot: 28
beautiful: 46
My Favorite Quotes:
• “I promise to pine for you if you pine for me.”
• “You are the epitome of beautiful.”
• “I knew you would look hella good with my name and number on your body.”
• “I only want to cuddle. I like having you in my arms.” “That’s too bad. I was hoping I could take you for a ride.”
• “I’m not most men, and you sure as hell aren’t most women.”
• “Look at me. The entire time I want your eyes on me.”
• “Can’t have you letting the whole dorm know whose c!ck you love. Gotta keep that good girl reputation intact.”
• “You love being dirty for me, don’t you?”
• “I will love you until my dying breath. There’s no option not to. You’re it for me.”
• “You want my d!ck?” “Yes.” “Come sit on my face then. Better fill that mouth with my c!ck before we get caught.”
• “Such a dirty girl. Taking my c!ck so well. Look at that greedy p!ssy sucking me in like she can’t get enough.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Forbidden
5/10 Slow Burn
8/10 Sports Romance
8/10 Series
This is my review for Iced
This is my review for Breakout
June 1, 2025
I had mixed feelings about this one but it was definitely a really good read! I LOVED to read Kellan’s redemption story and I loved the story that he got🥰 So of you go and enjoy 😘
May 14, 2025
A fast-paced romance.
At times the dialogue was a little bit too mature or rather too articulate for the age group of the main characters (I am a couple of years older than most of them and I have never met anyone my age who speaks like that) but overall it wasn't that bad.
This is the second book of the series where the antagonist of the first book gets redeemed and as someone who read this one as a standalone and had no clue exactly how the MMC was in the previous book "forgiving" him was not hard at all. He seems to have grown up and self-reflected so much in what (in book) is about a year that imagining him as bad is close to impossible. It kept getting mentioned how much of an asshole he was, which I didn't mind as his asshole behavior must have been shown in the first book, but I did find myself somewhat disappointed that we didn't get to see him grow. He just turned into this mature and empathetic guy within the first few pages and then it was just a constant "I need to make things right, my past is haunting me, I was such an asshole last year" record playing.
Also, as someone who struggles with panic attacks, I found the representation to be bordering on offensive. Sometimes it's better if there is no representation.
At times the dialogue was a little bit too mature or rather too articulate for the age group of the main characters (I am a couple of years older than most of them and I have never met anyone my age who speaks like that) but overall it wasn't that bad.
This is the second book of the series where the antagonist of the first book gets redeemed and as someone who read this one as a standalone and had no clue exactly how the MMC was in the previous book "forgiving" him was not hard at all. He seems to have grown up and self-reflected so much in what (in book) is about a year that imagining him as bad is close to impossible. It kept getting mentioned how much of an asshole he was, which I didn't mind as his asshole behavior must have been shown in the first book, but I did find myself somewhat disappointed that we didn't get to see him grow. He just turned into this mature and empathetic guy within the first few pages and then it was just a constant "I need to make things right, my past is haunting me, I was such an asshole last year" record playing.
Also, as someone who struggles with panic attacks, I found the representation to be bordering on offensive. Sometimes it's better if there is no representation.
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