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The Blade Kings #3
Shots Fired
Darcy, Darcy, Darcy.
The name I should have wiped from my mind nearly two years ago.
Her brother, and my assistant captain, has repeatedly warned she’s off-limits to a guy like me—a playboy bound to bed her one night and break her heart the next morning—an opinion shared by her stepdad, who also happens to be my coach. I can see why they don’t want their goalie anywhere near her. My reputation with women isn’t exactly unblemished.
Except, they shouldn’t judge what they don’t understand, and neither should my girl. Okay, she’s not technically my girl yet, but that’s just semantics, as are the things I’ll do to make her mine.
Each time she’s visited from the UK, I’ve warred with the respect I have for my friendship with her brother versus pursuing a growing obsession for the honey-haired bombshell with blue eyes as big as the Ocean that separates us.
That is, until everything changes and there’s nothing keeping me at a safe distance. She’s living in Brooklyn and looking for fun with guys, and I can no longer observe from the sidelines. Any chance—no matter how small—she gives me, I’m going to take it and say to hell with the consequences.
Only, the opportunity I get isn’t small, and neither are the stakes that go with it.
But again, that’s just semantics …
The name I should have wiped from my mind nearly two years ago.
Her brother, and my assistant captain, has repeatedly warned she’s off-limits to a guy like me—a playboy bound to bed her one night and break her heart the next morning—an opinion shared by her stepdad, who also happens to be my coach. I can see why they don’t want their goalie anywhere near her. My reputation with women isn’t exactly unblemished.
Except, they shouldn’t judge what they don’t understand, and neither should my girl. Okay, she’s not technically my girl yet, but that’s just semantics, as are the things I’ll do to make her mine.
Each time she’s visited from the UK, I’ve warred with the respect I have for my friendship with her brother versus pursuing a growing obsession for the honey-haired bombshell with blue eyes as big as the Ocean that separates us.
That is, until everything changes and there’s nothing keeping me at a safe distance. She’s living in Brooklyn and looking for fun with guys, and I can no longer observe from the sidelines. Any chance—no matter how small—she gives me, I’m going to take it and say to hell with the consequences.
Only, the opportunity I get isn’t small, and neither are the stakes that go with it.
But again, that’s just semantics …
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2025
994 people are currently reading
4468 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Stilling
10 books848 followersRuth Stilling is a lover of all things escapism and can be mostly found with her head buried in a spicy book, writing her latest romance novel or out in the open air and nature, away from the bustle of life. As clumsy as she is crazy, Ruth enjoys creating relatable, loveable, swoon-worthy and strong willed main characters who find their happy ending. That said, she prides herself on taking her readers on emotional rollercoasters and always recommends reading her books with tissues on hand to wipe away the tears of joy, laughter and sometimes heartache.
Ruth lives in Derbyshire, England with her own personal book boyfriend (lucky girl), her six year old son and her two feisty chihuahuas.
Keep up to date with Ruth's latest content and exciting projects by following her on social media: @authorruthstilling
Ruth lives in Derbyshire, England with her own personal book boyfriend (lucky girl), her six year old son and her two feisty chihuahuas.
Keep up to date with Ruth's latest content and exciting projects by following her on social media: @authorruthstilling
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 528 reviews
July 11, 2025
When reviews get removed from a reader space because authors don’t like their content, this throws up red flags for me.
The criticism of this book is valid, it missed the marks on what it was trying to be and I think people have every right to say that.
I really wanted to like this book but there were things in this that were totally problematic and I hated how some of our beloved characters were treated.
The criticism of this book is valid, it missed the marks on what it was trying to be and I think people have every right to say that.
I really wanted to like this book but there were things in this that were totally problematic and I hated how some of our beloved characters were treated.
June 28, 2025
❥ 𝗔𝗿𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
I'm just going to be honest—I did not like this book. I signed up for the pregnancy trope because I enjoy all things baby-related, and I came up empty-handed.
There’s nothing technically wrong with the book, and I think I might be the odd one out, because every review I’ve read so far seems really positive. But I just didn’t see it.
Archer seemed nice—maybe a little unhinged and way too cocky. The whole playboy narrative got old fast. Everyone in the book kept bringing it up like it was his entire personality. We get it, he slept around. That doesn’t mean he can’t change. People do. Move on.
Darcy, on the other hand, was a crybaby. I didn’t like her from the beginning, and that didn’t change. The secret-keeping, the constant “I just want fun” messaging, asking others to lie for her... it was all too much. For someone supposedly so smart, she came off as kind of dumb. What really didn’t make sense to me was how she was so upset about Liam lying to her and betraying her—only to turn around and do the exact same thing to the people she claims to love. Make it make sense.
This book felt like a mess. The characters seemed shallow and lacked depth, and everything stayed very surface level. I didn’t connect with them, and I didn’t swoon when Archer did something sweet for Darcy. I came for the pregnancy trope, but those moments were few and far between—and even then, they happened after the fact. It lacked the blissful excitement and warmth I usually associate with this trope. Everything felt rushed, like the author was just checking a box.
Even though this book wasn’t for me, I want to thank WordSmith Publicity for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team.
I'm just going to be honest—I did not like this book. I signed up for the pregnancy trope because I enjoy all things baby-related, and I came up empty-handed.
There’s nothing technically wrong with the book, and I think I might be the odd one out, because every review I’ve read so far seems really positive. But I just didn’t see it.
Archer seemed nice—maybe a little unhinged and way too cocky. The whole playboy narrative got old fast. Everyone in the book kept bringing it up like it was his entire personality. We get it, he slept around. That doesn’t mean he can’t change. People do. Move on.
Darcy, on the other hand, was a crybaby. I didn’t like her from the beginning, and that didn’t change. The secret-keeping, the constant “I just want fun” messaging, asking others to lie for her... it was all too much. For someone supposedly so smart, she came off as kind of dumb. What really didn’t make sense to me was how she was so upset about Liam lying to her and betraying her—only to turn around and do the exact same thing to the people she claims to love. Make it make sense.
This book felt like a mess. The characters seemed shallow and lacked depth, and everything stayed very surface level. I didn’t connect with them, and I didn’t swoon when Archer did something sweet for Darcy. I came for the pregnancy trope, but those moments were few and far between—and even then, they happened after the fact. It lacked the blissful excitement and warmth I usually associate with this trope. Everything felt rushed, like the author was just checking a box.
Even though this book wasn’t for me, I want to thank WordSmith Publicity for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team.
dnf
July 9, 2025Saw the word unalive and decided this was not for me
August 6, 2025
hm not bad but book 2 was way better
₊⊹⁀➴ 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝
got the arc!!! thank you sm wordsmith publicity & ruth for the arc <3
total shutdown was so good and i can't wait for this story 👀
⁀➴ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
🧡 coach's step-daughter
🏒 secret marriage of convenience
🧡 accidental pregnancy
🏒 reformed playboy
🧡 he falls first & harder
🏒 brother's bsf
release date: july 7
my total shutdown review
₊⊹⁀➴ 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝
got the arc!!! thank you sm wordsmith publicity & ruth for the arc <3
total shutdown was so good and i can't wait for this story 👀
⁀➴ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
🧡 coach's step-daughter
🏒 secret marriage of convenience
🧡 accidental pregnancy
🏒 reformed playboy
🧡 he falls first & harder
🏒 brother's bsf
release date: july 7
my total shutdown review
July 10, 2025
Liked it overall. -1 star for using the word "unalive"
July 3, 2025
First, I want to say that I love this series. I enjoyed the first 2 books so much so requesting to ARC read this 3rd one was automatic. I must say, it isnt my favorite. I liked the book and finished it, but I definitely struggled a bit.
Let's start with the parts I liked. I love the girl friendships between Darcy, Kendra, Collins and Jenna. Love how supportive and funny they are. I actually liked how Archer was so down bad for Darcy and loved how he was before they got together. I like the longing and yearning on his end. I appreciated the reformed playboy shtick. The spice was good as well. It's a lot but I think it goes well with the unhingeness and obsession between the MCs.
For the parts I didnt love - the first thing that really bothered me throughout the book was how this book turned me off of Jack. I loved him on the first book (see review). I understand the protectiveness but felt it was too much and this isnt on him either. Both Darcy and Archer went above and beyond keeping this a secret - even putting people in a really sticky situation by having them keep it a secret including Kendra and Darcy's mom (having to keep it from her son and husband). The secrets compounded from sleeping together then getting pregnant then getting married. Let me tell you, I was stressed! Haha I was like whoa that is going to be a lot to spring on someone. I did not understand the reasoning to keep on lying to him. When the visa thing came up and the marriage of convenience happened, my first thought was it was overloaded with tropes. I think it would have been better to focus on a few tropes and hash it out more instead of getting more in it. I also did not connect with Darcy much. I love Archer in the beginning. In fact, I started to highlight convos where he would just pine for Darcy but then he became obsessive and borderline creepy then his dialogues went from sweet to cringey. Sawyer who I also loved in the previous books (see reviews) was insufferable here as well. The best way to describe my feelings on this book is I felt like it was a train wreck I didnt want to watch but had to peek anyway.
I'm curious to see who the characters will be for the next book. If it is Tommy, I will need to see how Ruth turns what she made look like a villain on this book be likable. It seems everyone hates him already. I will probably wait until that book gets released and see reviews first.
I appreciate being able to read books early and I want to say thank you to Wordsmith Publicity for the eARC. It didnt work out for me but there are so many positive reviews so I am sure people will like this book as well!
Let's start with the parts I liked. I love the girl friendships between Darcy, Kendra, Collins and Jenna. Love how supportive and funny they are. I actually liked how Archer was so down bad for Darcy and loved how he was before they got together. I like the longing and yearning on his end. I appreciated the reformed playboy shtick. The spice was good as well. It's a lot but I think it goes well with the unhingeness and obsession between the MCs.
For the parts I didnt love - the first thing that really bothered me throughout the book was how this book turned me off of Jack. I loved him on the first book (see review). I understand the protectiveness but felt it was too much and this isnt on him either. Both Darcy and Archer went above and beyond keeping this a secret - even putting people in a really sticky situation by having them keep it a secret including Kendra and Darcy's mom (having to keep it from her son and husband). The secrets compounded from sleeping together then getting pregnant then getting married. Let me tell you, I was stressed! Haha I was like whoa that is going to be a lot to spring on someone. I did not understand the reasoning to keep on lying to him. When the visa thing came up and the marriage of convenience happened, my first thought was it was overloaded with tropes. I think it would have been better to focus on a few tropes and hash it out more instead of getting more in it. I also did not connect with Darcy much. I love Archer in the beginning. In fact, I started to highlight convos where he would just pine for Darcy but then he became obsessive and borderline creepy then his dialogues went from sweet to cringey. Sawyer who I also loved in the previous books (see reviews) was insufferable here as well. The best way to describe my feelings on this book is I felt like it was a train wreck I didnt want to watch but had to peek anyway.
I'm curious to see who the characters will be for the next book. If it is Tommy, I will need to see how Ruth turns what she made look like a villain on this book be likable. It seems everyone hates him already. I will probably wait until that book gets released and see reviews first.
I appreciate being able to read books early and I want to say thank you to Wordsmith Publicity for the eARC. It didnt work out for me but there are so many positive reviews so I am sure people will like this book as well!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2025
✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Secret Hook Up
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
✨ Coach’s stepdaughter
✨ Accidental Pregnancy
✨ “ My wife vibes”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2025
2.5⭐️
I didn’t read the other books in the series or in this world, but from reading other reviews it may be for the best to have less knowledge about the characters. I get that Archer is supposed to be a dom/controlling but he’s giving creepy controlling vibes..like one wrong turn and this could be a dark romance. Also Darcy’s doctor basically blaming her for her BC not working is absolute crap..taking antibiotics messes with your BC’s efficacy..and her Dr shouldn’t be such a dick. The second half of the book was more palatable for me, but overall this book was just not for me. I’m glad that Archer so quickly embraced the pregnancy but that was about all I enjoyed. This is probably more of a me thing but they didn’t need to say Hiroshima bomb…they could have just says “dropping that bomb on him” to get the point across. But again, that’s just a me thing. Just to say though, this book wasn’t for me, but it could be for you.
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity and Ruth for the eARC.
I didn’t read the other books in the series or in this world, but from reading other reviews it may be for the best to have less knowledge about the characters. I get that Archer is supposed to be a dom/controlling but he’s giving creepy controlling vibes..like one wrong turn and this could be a dark romance. Also Darcy’s doctor basically blaming her for her BC not working is absolute crap..taking antibiotics messes with your BC’s efficacy..and her Dr shouldn’t be such a dick. The second half of the book was more palatable for me, but overall this book was just not for me. I’m glad that Archer so quickly embraced the pregnancy but that was about all I enjoyed. This is probably more of a me thing but they didn’t need to say Hiroshima bomb…they could have just says “dropping that bomb on him” to get the point across. But again, that’s just a me thing. Just to say though, this book wasn’t for me, but it could be for you.
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity and Ruth for the eARC.
July 11, 2025
Had to DNF after that scene in the bathroom where the ML out of nowhere hits the guy for shooting his shot, and for his later behavior.
July 21, 2025
DNF even before finishing the first chapter. Heard terrible things about the author anyway.
hard-pass
July 26, 2025Everything you need to know about this story is explained here in Nadja's review - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The writing is awful. The characters are ridiculous. The plot is stupid. But more importantly, when someone tries to silence someone for expressing their opinion and goes to the lengths they did just because one person did not like the story? That's not someone I ever want to support or anyone SHOULD.
The writing is awful. The characters are ridiculous. The plot is stupid. But more importantly, when someone tries to silence someone for expressing their opinion and goes to the lengths they did just because one person did not like the story? That's not someone I ever want to support or anyone SHOULD.
July 7, 2025
Shots Fired by Ruth Stilling
4,25/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
I was excited to dive into this book! I had a feeling Archer would be smitten with Darcy, and I was right! Archer is the biggest playboy, but the moment he lays his eyes on Darcy, he can’t help but become obsessed. However, Darcy is his best friend’s sister and also the stepdaughter of his coach. But that doesn’t stop him one bit! Once he learns that Darcy has broken up with her boyfriend and decided to stay in Brooklyn, he’s all in.
After finding out her ex had cheated on her, Darcy makes a pact with herself to take a break from relationships. She’s focused on having fun, and that’s where Archer comes into the picture. She’s attracted to him, and once she realizes he feels the same way, she suggests a friends with benefits arrangement. Archer happily agrees, knowing this is his chance to get closer to the girl of his dreams. Unlike Darcy, he’s convinced she’s the one for him and is determined to make her fall for him.
I adored how attentive and thoughtful Archer was throughout the story. He knows just what she likes, gives her exactly what she needs, and treats her like a queen. He always makes sure she knows she’s the most important person in his life, proving time and again just how serious he is about their relationship. Watching Darcy slowly fall for him and begin to trust him was such a beautiful journey.
All in all, this was a great read, and I enjoyed it! If you’re a fan of lighthearted hockey romances packed with humor, swoon-worthy moments, and spice, I recommend this book. The sneak peek for the next couple has me super excited, and I can’t wait to read it!
4,25/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
I was excited to dive into this book! I had a feeling Archer would be smitten with Darcy, and I was right! Archer is the biggest playboy, but the moment he lays his eyes on Darcy, he can’t help but become obsessed. However, Darcy is his best friend’s sister and also the stepdaughter of his coach. But that doesn’t stop him one bit! Once he learns that Darcy has broken up with her boyfriend and decided to stay in Brooklyn, he’s all in.
After finding out her ex had cheated on her, Darcy makes a pact with herself to take a break from relationships. She’s focused on having fun, and that’s where Archer comes into the picture. She’s attracted to him, and once she realizes he feels the same way, she suggests a friends with benefits arrangement. Archer happily agrees, knowing this is his chance to get closer to the girl of his dreams. Unlike Darcy, he’s convinced she’s the one for him and is determined to make her fall for him.
I adored how attentive and thoughtful Archer was throughout the story. He knows just what she likes, gives her exactly what she needs, and treats her like a queen. He always makes sure she knows she’s the most important person in his life, proving time and again just how serious he is about their relationship. Watching Darcy slowly fall for him and begin to trust him was such a beautiful journey.
All in all, this was a great read, and I enjoyed it! If you’re a fan of lighthearted hockey romances packed with humor, swoon-worthy moments, and spice, I recommend this book. The sneak peek for the next couple has me super excited, and I can’t wait to read it!
July 19, 2025
This book was a solid 3.5 stars for me. For some reason it felt different from Ruth's other books in this series and in her first series. The build lacked a little bit for me. I was so excited to get to see Darcy and Archer play out, but I felt like the pacing was a little weird. I had a feeling that Archer was down bad, but this was next level down bad. It went from friends from a far, to wanting to have fun, to holding in expressing his feelings. I appreciated this man's determination in getting his dream girl! I had a hard time with the stigma his friends held against him for his playboy days. It was sad that no one had really noticed that he was trying to change or even encouraging him on his journey to do so. I struggled with Archer's response to Jack about seeing someone- I think that was a big part of why everything went south when it did. I did appreciate how much Archer helped Darcy on her journey to finding herself. Their connection was palpable. Their spice was delicious. The way that he treated her like a queen was next level- this man was REALLY down bad yall!! And I loved how he was just waiting for her to catch up. I liked the found family that Darcy got to experience in all of her new girlfriends, and how even though she wasn't looking for a relationship, she found her dream man. The steam in this one felt like next level- like more than other books. Not that I am complaining, but I do like a nice balance between steam and plot.
Darcy is now a New Yorker. She is on the rebound after her long term boyfriend broke her heart. Now she wants to have fun. But she can't help but notice Archer Moore, her brother's best friend, and goalie for the Blades. Sometimes she thinks he looks at her as more than a friend, but that can't be the case right? He can get any woman he wants. He does get any woman he wants. But something seems different now. He seems to have his sights set on her. He offers her a no strings attached situationship. He says he can rock her world and treat her right. She makes it clear, she doesn't want more. She doesn't want strings. She wants to be free for a bit. But the more time she spends with Archer, the more lines get crossed. The more she realizes the way he acts doesn't seem to jive with a situationship. The more it becomes clear he wants more with her whatever that may look like. Which she is ok with. She is enjoying herself. Then she gets pregnant. She freaks. She knows Archer is going to freak. They said fun not a baby. But his reaction is beyond anything she could expect. He is EXCITED. He is ELATED! He wants to tell the world. One small problem is her brother. They want to wait until she is 12 weeks. So during that time they live in an amazing bubble. A bubble where they are now open with their feelings and intentions and relationship. Where they talk about the future and their dreams. And they are happy. But then before they know it Jack finds out. He finds out before they tell him. And now a lot of things hinge on him being able to move past this- Archer's job, Archer's happiness, Darcy's relationship with her brother. She hopes he can get behind them because Archer is now her everything. And she wants her brother in her life.
Archer has never been a relationship guy. In fact, he has been a multiple women in one night kind of guy. Until he met Darcy. His best friend's little sister with the boyfriend living in London, Darcy. The Darcy who is now single and living in New York. No one has noticed that Archer hasn't been sleeping around anymore. No one has noticed that he can't stop looking at her. Well take that back a few people have. But he hasn't acted on it YET. But the more he sees Darcy out trying to live her best single life the more he can't fight it anymore. So he makes his move. He offers his services to Darcy to have fun with. To hang out with. To be with until she deems she is done. She makes it clear she doesn't want attachments which though Archer wants more, he is willing to take what he can get until he can convince her he is a changed man. And that is what he sets out to do. Rock her world. Show her how she deserves to be treated. How she should have been treated. Is he a little possessive? Definitely. Is he borderline intense? Most definitely. But would he do anything for Darcy- also yes. He is trying to go slow with her- woo her as much as she will let him. But then everything changes when she says she is pregnant. He finally has a forever in with her. He can see that she is nervous. That she is unsure but he is going to do everything in his power to prove to her what she means to him. Even if it means continuing to hide things from her brother. Though it pains him to do so. But she is his whole world. He hopes Jack will understand that. But he doesn't. Jack found out before they were ready to tell him and everything exploded. Now the only time he feels whole is around here. Why can't Jack just see how much he has changed? How much Darcy has helped him change? Her and their future baby are what he lives for now.
This was definitely entertaining and enjoyable. But like I said somehow it felt different. There was a lot happening while not so much happening at the same time. A little bit of a roller coaster where I felt myself trying to keep up with how fast everything was going. I loved Archer as the changed playboy. I loved Darcy finding herself with the right person. I also loved the found family aspect. Not going to lie I am a little unsure about Tommy being our main MC in the next book- he is going to have to REALLY change his act. We shall see!!
Thank you to Ruth and Wordsmith Publicity for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
Darcy is now a New Yorker. She is on the rebound after her long term boyfriend broke her heart. Now she wants to have fun. But she can't help but notice Archer Moore, her brother's best friend, and goalie for the Blades. Sometimes she thinks he looks at her as more than a friend, but that can't be the case right? He can get any woman he wants. He does get any woman he wants. But something seems different now. He seems to have his sights set on her. He offers her a no strings attached situationship. He says he can rock her world and treat her right. She makes it clear, she doesn't want more. She doesn't want strings. She wants to be free for a bit. But the more time she spends with Archer, the more lines get crossed. The more she realizes the way he acts doesn't seem to jive with a situationship. The more it becomes clear he wants more with her whatever that may look like. Which she is ok with. She is enjoying herself. Then she gets pregnant. She freaks. She knows Archer is going to freak. They said fun not a baby. But his reaction is beyond anything she could expect. He is EXCITED. He is ELATED! He wants to tell the world. One small problem is her brother. They want to wait until she is 12 weeks. So during that time they live in an amazing bubble. A bubble where they are now open with their feelings and intentions and relationship. Where they talk about the future and their dreams. And they are happy. But then before they know it Jack finds out. He finds out before they tell him. And now a lot of things hinge on him being able to move past this- Archer's job, Archer's happiness, Darcy's relationship with her brother. She hopes he can get behind them because Archer is now her everything. And she wants her brother in her life.
Archer has never been a relationship guy. In fact, he has been a multiple women in one night kind of guy. Until he met Darcy. His best friend's little sister with the boyfriend living in London, Darcy. The Darcy who is now single and living in New York. No one has noticed that Archer hasn't been sleeping around anymore. No one has noticed that he can't stop looking at her. Well take that back a few people have. But he hasn't acted on it YET. But the more he sees Darcy out trying to live her best single life the more he can't fight it anymore. So he makes his move. He offers his services to Darcy to have fun with. To hang out with. To be with until she deems she is done. She makes it clear she doesn't want attachments which though Archer wants more, he is willing to take what he can get until he can convince her he is a changed man. And that is what he sets out to do. Rock her world. Show her how she deserves to be treated. How she should have been treated. Is he a little possessive? Definitely. Is he borderline intense? Most definitely. But would he do anything for Darcy- also yes. He is trying to go slow with her- woo her as much as she will let him. But then everything changes when she says she is pregnant. He finally has a forever in with her. He can see that she is nervous. That she is unsure but he is going to do everything in his power to prove to her what she means to him. Even if it means continuing to hide things from her brother. Though it pains him to do so. But she is his whole world. He hopes Jack will understand that. But he doesn't. Jack found out before they were ready to tell him and everything exploded. Now the only time he feels whole is around here. Why can't Jack just see how much he has changed? How much Darcy has helped him change? Her and their future baby are what he lives for now.
This was definitely entertaining and enjoyable. But like I said somehow it felt different. There was a lot happening while not so much happening at the same time. A little bit of a roller coaster where I felt myself trying to keep up with how fast everything was going. I loved Archer as the changed playboy. I loved Darcy finding herself with the right person. I also loved the found family aspect. Not going to lie I am a little unsure about Tommy being our main MC in the next book- he is going to have to REALLY change his act. We shall see!!
Thank you to Ruth and Wordsmith Publicity for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
Read
January 24, 2026I’m simply a girl in my DARCher or bust era.
Shots Fired is book 3 in the Blade King series!
Vibes is Shots Fired?
-Hockey Romance
-Accidental Pregnancy
-Secret Relationship
-Friends With Benefits
-Man OBSESSED
-Coaches Step Daughter
Listen your girl is a straight up hoe for couples sneaking around doing the dirty when everyone else is around and this one DELIVERED!!
Archer Moore is genuinely so obsessed and feral for Darcy, he literally eat, sleeps, breathes Darcy. And we love to see it!!
Darcy honestly is just here for a good time not a long time, that is until Archer knocks her cute little butt up!!
This book is fun and flirty!! It’s spicy and sweet!! It’s a mix of all the things you need in a book.
I really love seeing cameos from some of the crew in the Seattle Scorpion series!! May this found family live on forever and ever amen!!
FERAL AF FOR BOOK 4. I’m calling dibs on that man!!
Shots Fired is book 3 in the Blade King series!
Vibes is Shots Fired?
-Hockey Romance
-Accidental Pregnancy
-Secret Relationship
-Friends With Benefits
-Man OBSESSED
-Coaches Step Daughter
Listen your girl is a straight up hoe for couples sneaking around doing the dirty when everyone else is around and this one DELIVERED!!
Archer Moore is genuinely so obsessed and feral for Darcy, he literally eat, sleeps, breathes Darcy. And we love to see it!!
Darcy honestly is just here for a good time not a long time, that is until Archer knocks her cute little butt up!!
This book is fun and flirty!! It’s spicy and sweet!! It’s a mix of all the things you need in a book.
I really love seeing cameos from some of the crew in the Seattle Scorpion series!! May this found family live on forever and ever amen!!
FERAL AF FOR BOOK 4. I’m calling dibs on that man!!
dnf
July 6, 2025I really wanted to like this book because I enjoyed the first 2 but I’m honestly just not feeling it. I dnf’d at 32% because I was not a fan the start of their relationship. He is apparently just enamored with her but won’t admit he has actual feelings for her and would rather just hook up? He almost comes off as creepily obsessed with her and it’s just too much
ARC
ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2025
Terrible book - the author needs a better editor.
July 11, 2025
I didn’t mind this one even though Archer was a playboy he turned a corner and there was no other woman drama.
Darcy is Jacks sister (Jack is Archers friend and teammate) she has just split with her ex who was not great to her and cheated on her. She has moved to the US from England. She wants to have fun.
Archer has been falling into obsession with Darcy since he first met her on a visit to the US 2 years ago. He has even quit his playboy ways 8 months ago however no one has noticed as his reputation proceeds him.
Darcy decides she will have one night with Archer but he convinces her to be friends with benefits even though he has no intention of ending this ever and is hoping for a proper relationship. Darcy falls pregnant accidentally and Archer is over the moon he has a reason for Darcy to stay with him. They decide to keep it secret until after the 12 weeks scan. While they are in their bubble they both fall in love. Due to Darcy’s visa Archer proposes and they secretly get married.
No 3rd act break and Jack is more upset about the lies that Archer told to hide his dating than he is about him dating his sister.
Darcy is Jacks sister (Jack is Archers friend and teammate) she has just split with her ex who was not great to her and cheated on her. She has moved to the US from England. She wants to have fun.
Archer has been falling into obsession with Darcy since he first met her on a visit to the US 2 years ago. He has even quit his playboy ways 8 months ago however no one has noticed as his reputation proceeds him.
Darcy decides she will have one night with Archer but he convinces her to be friends with benefits even though he has no intention of ending this ever and is hoping for a proper relationship. Darcy falls pregnant accidentally and Archer is over the moon he has a reason for Darcy to stay with him. They decide to keep it secret until after the 12 weeks scan. While they are in their bubble they both fall in love. Due to Darcy’s visa Archer proposes and they secretly get married.
No 3rd act break and Jack is more upset about the lies that Archer told to hide his dating than he is about him dating his sister.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️: Darcy and Archer 🧡
Edit: originally reviewed on July 5th! I didn’t know at the time that I read and reviews this book what is now coming to light! I am/was on her team but I’m not in the chat! No one in fact told me there was a chat so I was just carry on with my business 😂
———————————————————————
Ruth really nails it with her hockey romances! Darcy and Archer were so wholesome. I also just really love that we get to see more of Archer’s relationship with Sawyer ( which melted my heart)!! I think the friendship aspect is something that I always appreciate in all of Ruth’s books. I love them so much! A book to add to your TBR for sure if you like hockey romances with the tropes brothers best friend, accidental pregnancy, and marriage of convenience.
Thank you so much to Ruth and her team for sending the ARC! I have the honor of being part of Ruth’s ARC team 🩷
Edit: originally reviewed on July 5th! I didn’t know at the time that I read and reviews this book what is now coming to light! I am/was on her team but I’m not in the chat! No one in fact told me there was a chat so I was just carry on with my business 😂
———————————————————————
Ruth really nails it with her hockey romances! Darcy and Archer were so wholesome. I also just really love that we get to see more of Archer’s relationship with Sawyer ( which melted my heart)!! I think the friendship aspect is something that I always appreciate in all of Ruth’s books. I love them so much! A book to add to your TBR for sure if you like hockey romances with the tropes brothers best friend, accidental pregnancy, and marriage of convenience.
Thank you so much to Ruth and her team for sending the ARC! I have the honor of being part of Ruth’s ARC team 🩷
July 5, 2025
Y'all ain't ready for Archer Moore. Point. Blank. Period.
This man is down bad. On his knees obsessed. Lives and breaths the air that Darcy exists in. Other women? Who are they. Ready to drop thousands of dollars just to put a smile on her face? No big deal. When a man even remotely gets in Darcy's orbit? Yeah, he sees red. Like I said, this man is a man possessive with eyes only for Darcy. And where some may think her being the coach's step daughter and your best friend/teammates littler sister would make them off limits, Archer only sees it as a minor road bump to his happy every after.
Now if you have read any of The Blade Kings books prior to Shots Fired, then you already have a taste of Archer's feral unhinged obsession with Darcy but you really have no clue until you read this book. This man loves Darcy so much. The way he will do anything for her made me swoon. Like put a fork in me, I'm cooked.
Now Darcy, she's just a ray of sunshine. Freshly out of a long term relationship and a new resident of NYC, she just wants to have fun. So what harm is it to sleep with your brother's best friend, right? WRONG! Especially since you end up accidentally pregnant! Which honestly accidental pregnancy has become one of my favorite tropes, especially when it's with a reformed playboy that is down bad for one woman. And she couldn't have chosen a better and more dedicated man.
I really loved this book but I will say, I wanted more. My ONLY critique would be, I wanted MORE push and pull. I wanted Darcy to give more push back. I wanted more conflict amongst her brother Jack, Archer and her step dad Jon. But lets just me being a little toxic. I live for toxic scenarios. With that being said.... the next book 👀 the preview that we got in this book already has be feral!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- hockey romance
- accidental pregnancy
- marriage of convenience
- brother's best friend
- coach's step daughter
- man obsessed
- possessive MMC
- reformed playboy
- secret relationship
- (not so) friends with benefits
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Ruth Stilling and Wordsmith Publicity for allowing me the pleasure to read Shots Fired as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
This man is down bad. On his knees obsessed. Lives and breaths the air that Darcy exists in. Other women? Who are they. Ready to drop thousands of dollars just to put a smile on her face? No big deal. When a man even remotely gets in Darcy's orbit? Yeah, he sees red. Like I said, this man is a man possessive with eyes only for Darcy. And where some may think her being the coach's step daughter and your best friend/teammates littler sister would make them off limits, Archer only sees it as a minor road bump to his happy every after.
Now if you have read any of The Blade Kings books prior to Shots Fired, then you already have a taste of Archer's feral unhinged obsession with Darcy but you really have no clue until you read this book. This man loves Darcy so much. The way he will do anything for her made me swoon. Like put a fork in me, I'm cooked.
Now Darcy, she's just a ray of sunshine. Freshly out of a long term relationship and a new resident of NYC, she just wants to have fun. So what harm is it to sleep with your brother's best friend, right? WRONG! Especially since you end up accidentally pregnant! Which honestly accidental pregnancy has become one of my favorite tropes, especially when it's with a reformed playboy that is down bad for one woman. And she couldn't have chosen a better and more dedicated man.
I really loved this book but I will say, I wanted more. My ONLY critique would be, I wanted MORE push and pull. I wanted Darcy to give more push back. I wanted more conflict amongst her brother Jack, Archer and her step dad Jon. But lets just me being a little toxic. I live for toxic scenarios. With that being said.... the next book 👀 the preview that we got in this book already has be feral!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- hockey romance
- accidental pregnancy
- marriage of convenience
- brother's best friend
- coach's step daughter
- man obsessed
- possessive MMC
- reformed playboy
- secret relationship
- (not so) friends with benefits
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Ruth Stilling and Wordsmith Publicity for allowing me the pleasure to read Shots Fired as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 6, 2025
#Review: *Shots Fired* - Ruth Stilling - ARC [18+]
5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I was so darn excited to read this new book by Ruth Stilling!!😍 I just adooore this 'The Blade Kings' series, this one being the 3rd from it, but which can also be read as a standalone. Super grateful for being part of your content team, Ruth🤗. Thank you!
If you read the other books of this series, then you should already know about Darcy Thompson, that she is Jack's sister, the main character of the 1st book of the series. Darcy has broken up with her long time boyfriend, Liam, after he cheated on her. So, now Darcy has decided she wanted to leave London, the place where she was currently living and move to the States, where her mom and her brother were staying. That's where Darcy will meet Archer, which was Jack's hockey teammate, but also a boy who was pretty much obsessed with her. But she didn't know that yet
Archer Moore has eyed Darcy for a while now, but because she was in a relationship, his teammate's sister and his coach's step daughter, he stayed a bit back, not chasing after her. But once all those walls between them began to crumble down, everything between them just exploded, which made them fall into each others arms, sharing some pretty steamy scenes. Everything was nice and fun, until these secret hook-ups will come with a huge surprise🤭 One which will turn that little pregnancy test positive.
The first thing I want to blurre out from inside me is that I just completely fell for Archer!! He was simply adorable, funny, protective, sweet and super attentive with everything Darcy needed. He made me laugh so, so much while reading this book and it was impossible not to fall for him. Darcy was super nice too, having that good girl aura, but one who just wanted some fun, crazy moments for herself after her break-up. That was totally in Archer's favor, who didn't miss any second to make sure Darcy would be his one day. And he could have never imagined that he could receive so much more than he wanted: the chance of having his dream girl and maybe a family with her.
I cannot express in words how much I adooored this book, being in tie with the 1st one of this series, which also just infiltrated in my heart and mind and stayed there. I promise you that this is a must read, especially if you are a fan of accidental pregnancy or boy obsessed tropes🤭. It's a perfect book from my point of view🤭. Also, there was a huge thing happening towards the ending of this story, which may be where this series will go further.
✨Tropes
#AccidentalPregnancy
#BrothersBestFriend
#BoyObsessed
#HeFallsFirstAndHarder
#GoodGirlBadBoy
#ReformedPlayboy
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
5/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I was so darn excited to read this new book by Ruth Stilling!!😍 I just adooore this 'The Blade Kings' series, this one being the 3rd from it, but which can also be read as a standalone. Super grateful for being part of your content team, Ruth🤗. Thank you!
If you read the other books of this series, then you should already know about Darcy Thompson, that she is Jack's sister, the main character of the 1st book of the series. Darcy has broken up with her long time boyfriend, Liam, after he cheated on her. So, now Darcy has decided she wanted to leave London, the place where she was currently living and move to the States, where her mom and her brother were staying. That's where Darcy will meet Archer, which was Jack's hockey teammate, but also a boy who was pretty much obsessed with her. But she didn't know that yet
Archer Moore has eyed Darcy for a while now, but because she was in a relationship, his teammate's sister and his coach's step daughter, he stayed a bit back, not chasing after her. But once all those walls between them began to crumble down, everything between them just exploded, which made them fall into each others arms, sharing some pretty steamy scenes. Everything was nice and fun, until these secret hook-ups will come with a huge surprise🤭 One which will turn that little pregnancy test positive.
The first thing I want to blurre out from inside me is that I just completely fell for Archer!! He was simply adorable, funny, protective, sweet and super attentive with everything Darcy needed. He made me laugh so, so much while reading this book and it was impossible not to fall for him. Darcy was super nice too, having that good girl aura, but one who just wanted some fun, crazy moments for herself after her break-up. That was totally in Archer's favor, who didn't miss any second to make sure Darcy would be his one day. And he could have never imagined that he could receive so much more than he wanted: the chance of having his dream girl and maybe a family with her.
I cannot express in words how much I adooored this book, being in tie with the 1st one of this series, which also just infiltrated in my heart and mind and stayed there. I promise you that this is a must read, especially if you are a fan of accidental pregnancy or boy obsessed tropes🤭. It's a perfect book from my point of view🤭. Also, there was a huge thing happening towards the ending of this story, which may be where this series will go further.
✨Tropes
#AccidentalPregnancy
#BrothersBestFriend
#BoyObsessed
#HeFallsFirstAndHarder
#GoodGirlBadBoy
#ReformedPlayboy
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
July 8, 2025
2.5⭐️
August 6, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Shots Fired
By Ruth Stilling
“What are you covering up, Archer?”
“My obsession with you, Darcy. And hopefully, if I get my way, the insane amount of fun we’re going to have in my bed tonight.”
“Lesson One: How to Figure Out When the Former NHL F***boy Is Actually into Only One Girl. I’m down bad, Darcy. And I’m not going anywhere. Especially not now.”
Archer lifts me higher in his arms, pulling my top up until my bare skin pebbles against the morning air. His lips ghost over my stomach as he whispers, “Do you think you can help your mommy fall for daddy?”
“I’ve never been wanted like this, never been pursued so relentlessly. Every woman should experience this at least once in their lifetime.”
I say this every time, but this is my favorite Ruth’s! Her books just keep getting better and better!
This book, I am obsessed!! I was giddy, giggling and kicking my feet the whole time while reading. Archer is so down bad for Darcy and I am here for it!! Archer is 100% top tier book boyfriend material, showering Darcy in love, compliments, gifts, security and making a family with her.
This book just flowed and progressed so effortlessly. This is a top read, top tier book boyfriend and top tier book couple of 2025 for me! I am now a DARCHer Stan! It’s just so perfect and gets all the stars!
Tropes:
Secret Relationship
Coach’s Step Daughter
Reformed Playboy
Accidental Pregnancy
Brothers Best Friend
Spice Starts at: 18% 🔥
Spice: 4/4🌶️
Stars: 5/5⭐️♾️
Available on Kindle Unlimited July 7th
Shots Fired
By Ruth Stilling
“What are you covering up, Archer?”
“My obsession with you, Darcy. And hopefully, if I get my way, the insane amount of fun we’re going to have in my bed tonight.”
“Lesson One: How to Figure Out When the Former NHL F***boy Is Actually into Only One Girl. I’m down bad, Darcy. And I’m not going anywhere. Especially not now.”
Archer lifts me higher in his arms, pulling my top up until my bare skin pebbles against the morning air. His lips ghost over my stomach as he whispers, “Do you think you can help your mommy fall for daddy?”
“I’ve never been wanted like this, never been pursued so relentlessly. Every woman should experience this at least once in their lifetime.”
I say this every time, but this is my favorite Ruth’s! Her books just keep getting better and better!
This book, I am obsessed!! I was giddy, giggling and kicking my feet the whole time while reading. Archer is so down bad for Darcy and I am here for it!! Archer is 100% top tier book boyfriend material, showering Darcy in love, compliments, gifts, security and making a family with her.
This book just flowed and progressed so effortlessly. This is a top read, top tier book boyfriend and top tier book couple of 2025 for me! I am now a DARCHer Stan! It’s just so perfect and gets all the stars!
Tropes:
Secret Relationship
Coach’s Step Daughter
Reformed Playboy
Accidental Pregnancy
Brothers Best Friend
Spice Starts at: 18% 🔥
Spice: 4/4🌶️
Stars: 5/5⭐️♾️
Available on Kindle Unlimited July 7th
July 9, 2025
Not bad but way longer than it needed to be and seriously lacking depth, which btw is kinda becoming a pattern in this books.
July 25, 2025
This was a hard one to DNF as I had such high expectations. Not sure why certain characters were totally changed/villainized.
The storyline also seemed choppy or just not a good flow.
I normally don’t mind her books but this one just missed the mark.
The storyline also seemed choppy or just not a good flow.
I normally don’t mind her books but this one just missed the mark.
July 6, 2025
4.5⭐️
I was lucky enough to beta read this story — which means I’ve sat on my love for Darcy and Archer for A LONG TIME NOW. 😉
This third installment of Ruth’s Blade Kings series gives us perhaps her most obsessed MMC yet in Archer Moore — a man so down bad for our FMC Darcy, he can barely think straight. Throw in the fact that Darcy is his best friend’s sister (Jack from Perfect Deke) and things are complex. In the best way.
Not only do we get a surprise pregnancy, we also get a secret marriage of convenience (which is so much more). We get longing. And insane chemistry. We get charm and emotion. We get spice (holy hell, do we ever). And in the end, we get a compelling story of two people who, in a way that feels inevitable and almost fated, fall for each other and embrace everything life hands them. And it hands them a lot.
Endless thanks to Ruth for the chance to beta read and for being such an incredible human.
I was lucky enough to beta read this story — which means I’ve sat on my love for Darcy and Archer for A LONG TIME NOW. 😉
This third installment of Ruth’s Blade Kings series gives us perhaps her most obsessed MMC yet in Archer Moore — a man so down bad for our FMC Darcy, he can barely think straight. Throw in the fact that Darcy is his best friend’s sister (Jack from Perfect Deke) and things are complex. In the best way.
Not only do we get a surprise pregnancy, we also get a secret marriage of convenience (which is so much more). We get longing. And insane chemistry. We get charm and emotion. We get spice (holy hell, do we ever). And in the end, we get a compelling story of two people who, in a way that feels inevitable and almost fated, fall for each other and embrace everything life hands them. And it hands them a lot.
Endless thanks to Ruth for the chance to beta read and for being such an incredible human.
April 6, 2025
Give ruth the credits she deservessss
(I haven't read TS yet but who cares)
(I haven't read TS yet but who cares)
June 27, 2025
ARC Review 🩷✨!!!!
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book this fast in my life. Like—under 12 hours fast.
And yes, it was this one. And yes, it’s because I’m obsessed with this author.
First of all: she’s fantastic.
Second: she’s fantastic.
Third... did I already say she’s fantastic?
She writes beautifully, absolutely exquisitely. I adore her characters—their humor, their layers, and the way she weaves different worlds and generations together.
Now let’s talk about this book.
Here, we follow Darcy, the daughter of one of our very first heroines: Felicity. And on the other side, we’ve got one of our most famous NHL players on the team: Archer.
Archer is the kind of man who, the moment he lays eyes on her, says:
“She’s my woman. She’s the love of my life. I’m going to marry her. I’m going to grow old with her.”
And guess what? He means it. He’s decisive, intense, and madly in love from start to finish.
One of my favorite things about this story?
We get more of his POV than hers—and I’ll always, always be #TeamMalePOV.
Why? Because when a man—who’s usually more closed off emotionally—is written to be deeply vulnerable, sensitive, completely obsessed and head-over-heels for the heroine… it’s game over for me. That’s my weakness. Top-tier.
Does it have the surprise pregnancy trope?
Yes.
Is it done well?
Absolutely.
It’s not just thrown in at 80% like a plot twist. It’s a core part of the story.
You see her emotions, her decisions, how he supports her through it all—and wow. The execution? Chef’s kiss.
I won’t spoil more, because this is one of those books you just have to feel.
But I will say this: 5 out of 5 stars. Easily.
So if you’re debating whether to read it or not…
Don’t. Just go for it.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book this fast in my life. Like—under 12 hours fast.
And yes, it was this one. And yes, it’s because I’m obsessed with this author.
First of all: she’s fantastic.
Second: she’s fantastic.
Third... did I already say she’s fantastic?
She writes beautifully, absolutely exquisitely. I adore her characters—their humor, their layers, and the way she weaves different worlds and generations together.
Now let’s talk about this book.
Here, we follow Darcy, the daughter of one of our very first heroines: Felicity. And on the other side, we’ve got one of our most famous NHL players on the team: Archer.
Archer is the kind of man who, the moment he lays eyes on her, says:
“She’s my woman. She’s the love of my life. I’m going to marry her. I’m going to grow old with her.”
And guess what? He means it. He’s decisive, intense, and madly in love from start to finish.
One of my favorite things about this story?
We get more of his POV than hers—and I’ll always, always be #TeamMalePOV.
Why? Because when a man—who’s usually more closed off emotionally—is written to be deeply vulnerable, sensitive, completely obsessed and head-over-heels for the heroine… it’s game over for me. That’s my weakness. Top-tier.
Does it have the surprise pregnancy trope?
Yes.
Is it done well?
Absolutely.
It’s not just thrown in at 80% like a plot twist. It’s a core part of the story.
You see her emotions, her decisions, how he supports her through it all—and wow. The execution? Chef’s kiss.
I won’t spoil more, because this is one of those books you just have to feel.
But I will say this: 5 out of 5 stars. Easily.
So if you’re debating whether to read it or not…
Don’t. Just go for it.
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