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Riverside U #3
Blindsided By The Enforcer
The perfect defense against my lying, manipulative ex? Fake date the enforcer for the Riverside U hockey team.
It’s the least Cade Price can do after I helped him save face when he caught his girlfriend playing tonsil hockey with another guy.
Convincing him to be my pretend boyfriend doesn’t take much—his cheating ex is already trying to crawl back into his life—and he’s desperate to prove he’s moved on.
Our arrangement is simple; no strings, no feelings. But he’s everything I didn’t expect: warm, fiercely protective, and far too easy to fall for.
Cade suggests we upgrade our fake relationship to one with benefits, but every kiss and touch feels more real than it should.
Now I’m starting to wonder if the only people we’re fooling is ourselves.
When the game ends, will Cade prove he’s the real deal—or leave me blindsided?
It’s the least Cade Price can do after I helped him save face when he caught his girlfriend playing tonsil hockey with another guy.
Convincing him to be my pretend boyfriend doesn’t take much—his cheating ex is already trying to crawl back into his life—and he’s desperate to prove he’s moved on.
Our arrangement is simple; no strings, no feelings. But he’s everything I didn’t expect: warm, fiercely protective, and far too easy to fall for.
Cade suggests we upgrade our fake relationship to one with benefits, but every kiss and touch feels more real than it should.
Now I’m starting to wonder if the only people we’re fooling is ourselves.
When the game ends, will Cade prove he’s the real deal—or leave me blindsided?
288 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2025
462 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Stephens
45 books1,415 followersR.C. Stephens writes the kind of stories that make you laugh, cry, and believe in love all over again.
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 17, 2025
DNF at 5%
I was so excited about this premise but the writing doesn't flow, there's minimal emotional development, and the character's actions and motivations don't gel.
I was so excited about this premise but the writing doesn't flow, there's minimal emotional development, and the character's actions and motivations don't gel.
February 6, 2025
When Cade needs help with his ex-girlfriend Annie steps up and kisses him and comes up with a plan that can help them both. What happens when fake dating turns into more? What about a cow licking you at Christmas? This book was amazing I could not put it down. R.C. Stephen's is a must-read author.
January 31, 2025
I'm so excited I get to ARC for her again! I've loved all of her Hockey books so far! This is an interconnected series. Books can be read alone but it's a better reading experience if you read them in order. Plus they are all good.
Annie
Loves her family farm and plans on taking over it as long as it can be saved before that. She's kind and straight forward. She says it like it is and isn't afraid to be herself. She has a lot of family trauma and absolutely does not believe in love. But will her idea to Fake Date change everything?
Cade
He is one of the sweetest guys and his world flips upside-down when he finds out his long time girlfriend has been cheating on him nonstop. He is an extremely talented Hockey player and will defend his teammates on and off the ice. His father has broken him though and his confidence is nonexistent and it hurts my heart so badly. He is so thoughtful and kind and makes sure Annie is always taken care of. I was cheering for him so badly the whole time especially because I absolutely related to the AHole father thing with sports. He also doesn't believe in love until he gets to know Annie.
I really enjoyed the story and plot. It was clear to everyone they were meant to be even if they didn't see it. It was a slow burn and you just want to scream at the two of them to just be together already haha (in a good way).
Some of the conversations felt out of flow/kinda forced? I don't know how to explain it. The story itself was great though. I always enjoy a good fake dating. The plot twist was something I saw coming and though at first I had mixed feelings about it, I think it was done well to help the characters understand.
The massive hint for the next book in the middle had my jaw drop. I can't wait to read their story!
Like always she gives us really enjoyable stories with perfect book boyfriends. I absolutely want to meet Sally and become friends with her haha. No goats though.
Annie
Loves her family farm and plans on taking over it as long as it can be saved before that. She's kind and straight forward. She says it like it is and isn't afraid to be herself. She has a lot of family trauma and absolutely does not believe in love. But will her idea to Fake Date change everything?
Cade
He is one of the sweetest guys and his world flips upside-down when he finds out his long time girlfriend has been cheating on him nonstop. He is an extremely talented Hockey player and will defend his teammates on and off the ice. His father has broken him though and his confidence is nonexistent and it hurts my heart so badly. He is so thoughtful and kind and makes sure Annie is always taken care of. I was cheering for him so badly the whole time especially because I absolutely related to the AHole father thing with sports. He also doesn't believe in love until he gets to know Annie.
I really enjoyed the story and plot. It was clear to everyone they were meant to be even if they didn't see it. It was a slow burn and you just want to scream at the two of them to just be together already haha (in a good way).
Some of the conversations felt out of flow/kinda forced? I don't know how to explain it. The story itself was great though. I always enjoy a good fake dating. The plot twist was something I saw coming and though at first I had mixed feelings about it, I think it was done well to help the characters understand.
The massive hint for the next book in the middle had my jaw drop. I can't wait to read their story!
Like always she gives us really enjoyable stories with perfect book boyfriends. I absolutely want to meet Sally and become friends with her haha. No goats though.
February 7, 2025
What is it about these hockey players at Riverside University? They may be fast on the ice, but they love to take their time when it comes to ‘the one’……. then again Cade Price was just out of a long-term relationship with a toxic ex who thought nothing said I love you better than cheating on her boyfriend. Annie had come to his rescue and offered to play the part of his girlfriend, not for wholly altruistic reasons, she had a cheating ex of her own who thought Annie would fall back into his arms who was transferring to Riverside so why shouldn’t they team up and present a united front against unfaithful ex’s everywhere and if there should be some extra curricular activities well they were both adults and in a couple of months when school ended they’d go their separate ways no harm no foul. Maybe they should’ve told that to their hearts.
Blindsided by the Enforcer was a slowburn, college romance with a slightly more angsty feel than the previous books with the main characters having parental issues putting them under added pressure to be something they weren’t. Annie and Cade were likeable characters, and I loved the fun and friendship they shared. Their fake dating story was well written with a good flow to it and a sprinkling of humour mainly down to Cade’s reaction to farm animals especially baby goats which did make me laugh. He was just a genuinely nice guy though as evinced by the reasons why he’d stayed with Scarlett for so long despite her actions. Most of the secondary characters will be familiar and with the overlap between books it was a bonus to see some scenes from a new perspective.
Blindsided by the Enforcer was a slowburn, college romance with a slightly more angsty feel than the previous books with the main characters having parental issues putting them under added pressure to be something they weren’t. Annie and Cade were likeable characters, and I loved the fun and friendship they shared. Their fake dating story was well written with a good flow to it and a sprinkling of humour mainly down to Cade’s reaction to farm animals especially baby goats which did make me laugh. He was just a genuinely nice guy though as evinced by the reasons why he’d stayed with Scarlett for so long despite her actions. Most of the secondary characters will be familiar and with the overlap between books it was a bonus to see some scenes from a new perspective.
February 12, 2025
I couldn't get enough of Annie and Cade
R.C. Stephens is an absolute 'go-to' author for me, and I was more than thrilled when BLINDSIDED BY THE ENFORCER landed on my kindle. The third novel in the Riverside U series is a friends with benefits, fake relationship, he falls first, college hockey romance where the lines between fake and real blur and feelings quickly deepen.
Annie Caufield has turned her back on relationships, her previous one leaving her feeling emotionally abused and drained. Annie is the sweetest, she's gentle and caring, and dreams of one day taking over the family farm. Her ex was causing problems, and she needed some help. Hockey player Cade Price is an absolute cinnamon roll, this man is delish and wears his heart on his sleeve. He's also having problems with an ex who just won't stay away. Both are also suffering emotionally due to family situations. When Annie surprises Cade by kissing him in front of his ex, the two concoct a plan that will help both of them. Pretending to be in a relationship with each other should be easy, right?
Annie and Cade share a wonderful slow burn romance, and I was all for it. The chemistry between them sizzled, yet it was the close friendship that developed, the support and encouragement they gave each other, that made them realise that maybe there was more between them, but who would open up first about their feelings? I loved watching their friendship evolve, the understanding and compassion they had for each other's situation. Cade may have been falling for Annie since that first kiss, but it was a trip to Annie's family farm when he knew she was "the one".
BLINDSIDED BY THE ENFORCER was a terrific read, and a wonderful addition to the Riverside U series. I fell hard for Annie and Cade, their relationship may have started out as fake, was a slow burn one, yet they both realized it was one to be cherished. I laughed, sighed, raged, and swooned, these two were the perfect match. There was a huge hint about who the next book is about, and I can't wait.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
R.C. Stephens is an absolute 'go-to' author for me, and I was more than thrilled when BLINDSIDED BY THE ENFORCER landed on my kindle. The third novel in the Riverside U series is a friends with benefits, fake relationship, he falls first, college hockey romance where the lines between fake and real blur and feelings quickly deepen.
Annie Caufield has turned her back on relationships, her previous one leaving her feeling emotionally abused and drained. Annie is the sweetest, she's gentle and caring, and dreams of one day taking over the family farm. Her ex was causing problems, and she needed some help. Hockey player Cade Price is an absolute cinnamon roll, this man is delish and wears his heart on his sleeve. He's also having problems with an ex who just won't stay away. Both are also suffering emotionally due to family situations. When Annie surprises Cade by kissing him in front of his ex, the two concoct a plan that will help both of them. Pretending to be in a relationship with each other should be easy, right?
Annie and Cade share a wonderful slow burn romance, and I was all for it. The chemistry between them sizzled, yet it was the close friendship that developed, the support and encouragement they gave each other, that made them realise that maybe there was more between them, but who would open up first about their feelings? I loved watching their friendship evolve, the understanding and compassion they had for each other's situation. Cade may have been falling for Annie since that first kiss, but it was a trip to Annie's family farm when he knew she was "the one".
BLINDSIDED BY THE ENFORCER was a terrific read, and a wonderful addition to the Riverside U series. I fell hard for Annie and Cade, their relationship may have started out as fake, was a slow burn one, yet they both realized it was one to be cherished. I laughed, sighed, raged, and swooned, these two were the perfect match. There was a huge hint about who the next book is about, and I can't wait.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
February 8, 2025
R.C. Stephens delivers another engaging romance with Blindsided By The Enforcer, the latest installment in the Riverside U series. The story follows Aubrey, who impulsively decides to fake a relationship with Cade Price, the intimidating enforcer of the Riverside U hockey team, to get revenge on her ex. The premise itself is intriguing. Seeing how this fake relationship blossoms into something real is the main draw.
Stephens does a good job of developing the characters. Cade is initially presented as this tough, brooding figure, but as the story unfolds, we see his softer side and the genuine caring he has for Aubrey. Aubrey is relatable, and her motivations for the fake relationship, while perhaps a little impulsive, are understandable. Their chemistry is well-written. The banter feels natural, and you can genuinely feel the connection building between them as they navigate the complexities of their arrangement.
The plot moves at a good pace, keeping you invested in Aubrey and Cade's journey. I was eager to see how they would handle the challenges that arose from their fake relationship.
Blindsided By The Enforcer is a solid and enjoyable read. The mature themes and the focus on character development are well-executed. It's a definite recommendation if you enjoy a mature romance, satisfying HEA, and no cheating. While it didn't necessarily break new ground in the genre for me, it was a well-written and entertaining story that I happily devoured.
Stephens does a good job of developing the characters. Cade is initially presented as this tough, brooding figure, but as the story unfolds, we see his softer side and the genuine caring he has for Aubrey. Aubrey is relatable, and her motivations for the fake relationship, while perhaps a little impulsive, are understandable. Their chemistry is well-written. The banter feels natural, and you can genuinely feel the connection building between them as they navigate the complexities of their arrangement.
The plot moves at a good pace, keeping you invested in Aubrey and Cade's journey. I was eager to see how they would handle the challenges that arose from their fake relationship.
Blindsided By The Enforcer is a solid and enjoyable read. The mature themes and the focus on character development are well-executed. It's a definite recommendation if you enjoy a mature romance, satisfying HEA, and no cheating. While it didn't necessarily break new ground in the genre for me, it was a well-written and entertaining story that I happily devoured.
February 5, 2025
Riverside U
Cade Price caught his girlfriend cheating on him and broke it off but that hasn't stopped her from contacting him and trying to get back together, something he doesn't want to do.
Annie Caufield broke up with her boyfriend since he was cheating on her and he keeps stalking her trying to get back together and has even changed schools and is now at Riverside U. She has stayed away from relationships and just wants to get through school to move back home to take over the family farm.
Cade is on the hockey team at Riverside U and is expecting to go pro the following year when he graduates. He likes hockey but doesn't want to be what his father has pushed him to be.
Going out to a bar with a group of friends he sees his girlfriend kissing a guy and Annie jumps in and acts like she and Cade are dating. They come up with the idea of fake dating to get their ex's out of their lives. Will it work or will this backfire?
4 stars
Both Cade and Annie had a lot of family drama to deal with which also put pressure on them and how they wanted their lives to be different. They also had to deal with their insecurities and learn to trust each other.
I loved the farm scene where Sally the cow licks Cade's check, hilarious.
Cade Price caught his girlfriend cheating on him and broke it off but that hasn't stopped her from contacting him and trying to get back together, something he doesn't want to do.
Annie Caufield broke up with her boyfriend since he was cheating on her and he keeps stalking her trying to get back together and has even changed schools and is now at Riverside U. She has stayed away from relationships and just wants to get through school to move back home to take over the family farm.
Cade is on the hockey team at Riverside U and is expecting to go pro the following year when he graduates. He likes hockey but doesn't want to be what his father has pushed him to be.
Going out to a bar with a group of friends he sees his girlfriend kissing a guy and Annie jumps in and acts like she and Cade are dating. They come up with the idea of fake dating to get their ex's out of their lives. Will it work or will this backfire?
4 stars
Both Cade and Annie had a lot of family drama to deal with which also put pressure on them and how they wanted their lives to be different. They also had to deal with their insecurities and learn to trust each other.
I loved the farm scene where Sally the cow licks Cade's check, hilarious.
February 6, 2025
Cade Price is the enforcer for the Riverside U hockey team. He loves playing hockey, but, wants to move to a winger position, but, the hockey team / coach want him in as the enforcer as that what his dad did in the NHL and what his dad groomed him to be. Cade has an ex who won't take the hint they are over.
Annie Caufield grew up on a dairy farm, loves her home life and her college life. She loves being around the animals on the farm and misses her dairy cow Sally every day. Annie's mom also blamed her for coming into this world. Her mom isn't happy being married to her father, and she takes out all her anger on Annie. Annie loves her dad and is such a daddies girl. Annie has an ex, who won't take the hint they they aren't getting back together.
Annie and Cade share a wonderful slow burn romance that started off as a fake relationship but of course grew into a real relationship without them ever realizing it.
Cade realized he never knew love until he was with Annie. Even with his ex, who tried pushing it on him, who he never loved. With Annie its just so easy. Annie feels that she's pushing him into being with her. But Cade wants to be with her.
I did receive a free ARC Book Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a book review.
Annie Caufield grew up on a dairy farm, loves her home life and her college life. She loves being around the animals on the farm and misses her dairy cow Sally every day. Annie's mom also blamed her for coming into this world. Her mom isn't happy being married to her father, and she takes out all her anger on Annie. Annie loves her dad and is such a daddies girl. Annie has an ex, who won't take the hint they they aren't getting back together.
Annie and Cade share a wonderful slow burn romance that started off as a fake relationship but of course grew into a real relationship without them ever realizing it.
Cade realized he never knew love until he was with Annie. Even with his ex, who tried pushing it on him, who he never loved. With Annie its just so easy. Annie feels that she's pushing him into being with her. But Cade wants to be with her.
I did receive a free ARC Book Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a book review.
January 29, 2025
I flew through this slow burn fake dating story between Annie and Cade in the third book of the Riverside U series. Annie and Cade’s story will surprise you with how deep the feelings Annie and Cade have for each other, the understanding they have for what they’ve been through, and how connected they are.
You can truly see how much Cade feels for Annie and how he understood her reservations about the two of them and what comes with being with a hockey player. Cade started to fall for Annie after she kissed him to save him from embarrassment but he really fell for Annie when she showed him the farm, the animals and invited him into her traditions and behind her walls.
Annie (and Cade) went through some major life changes while they were together but not together and they showed up for each other. Their relationship is built on a foundation of friendship and love that will withstand the pressures of life and time.
I have an idea of who the next book in the series will be about and I’m hoping I’m right cause I’m definitely curious about their story.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
You can truly see how much Cade feels for Annie and how he understood her reservations about the two of them and what comes with being with a hockey player. Cade started to fall for Annie after she kissed him to save him from embarrassment but he really fell for Annie when she showed him the farm, the animals and invited him into her traditions and behind her walls.
Annie (and Cade) went through some major life changes while they were together but not together and they showed up for each other. Their relationship is built on a foundation of friendship and love that will withstand the pressures of life and time.
I have an idea of who the next book in the series will be about and I’m hoping I’m right cause I’m definitely curious about their story.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
February 4, 2025
𝐁𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐫 is the 3rd book in the Riverside U Hockey series by R.C. Stephens, featuring a fake-dating hockey romance for Cade and Annie. Two cheating exes still on the prowl lead Cade and Annie to an unorthodox fake dating situation to protect them both from some of the drama in their lives. As the undeniable attraction between them leads to some spicy benefits, real feelings begin to develop as well. Has their luck turned around, or will Annie be blindsided by heartbreak again?
I can’t tell you how excited I was for Cade and Annie’s story after reading the last book! The way they connected through ex drama, parental issues, and struggles over future plans was so well written! The story had everything… witty banter, authentic emotion, some action, amazing characters, plot twists, and a slow burn romance that culminated in plenty of heat when the time was right! I couldn’t put the book down! And those epilogues hit me in the feels! I couldn’t put the book down! I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
I received a free ARC, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
I can’t tell you how excited I was for Cade and Annie’s story after reading the last book! The way they connected through ex drama, parental issues, and struggles over future plans was so well written! The story had everything… witty banter, authentic emotion, some action, amazing characters, plot twists, and a slow burn romance that culminated in plenty of heat when the time was right! I couldn’t put the book down! And those epilogues hit me in the feels! I couldn’t put the book down! I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
I received a free ARC, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
February 8, 2025
I rcvd an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
I knew as soon as I met him in Face Off With The Captain, I was going to be totally in love with Cade Price. And look, here I am, totally in love with Cade Price. I knew his story was going to be good just based on the small sample in previous books - and have I mentioned that I love the way these stories at Riverside U have overlapped with each other?
Annie need a buffer between her and her manipulative, cheating ex; Cade needs a way to prove to his ex that he's not taking her back - why not fake date? Their chemistry is off the charts, but they honestly just wanted to help each other. I think that's what I loved so much about this book. Cade and Annie were both genuine people. They didn't deserve the way their significant others treated them, and it was so sweet the way they were insistent on helping each other, even when they were hurting.
I've said before how much I love the found family at Riverside U, and this installment was no exceptions. This team and all their significant others are definitely the family that they all need. I love seeing the glimpses into the future with the epilogues, as well.
I knew as soon as I met him in Face Off With The Captain, I was going to be totally in love with Cade Price. And look, here I am, totally in love with Cade Price. I knew his story was going to be good just based on the small sample in previous books - and have I mentioned that I love the way these stories at Riverside U have overlapped with each other?
Annie need a buffer between her and her manipulative, cheating ex; Cade needs a way to prove to his ex that he's not taking her back - why not fake date? Their chemistry is off the charts, but they honestly just wanted to help each other. I think that's what I loved so much about this book. Cade and Annie were both genuine people. They didn't deserve the way their significant others treated them, and it was so sweet the way they were insistent on helping each other, even when they were hurting.
I've said before how much I love the found family at Riverside U, and this installment was no exceptions. This team and all their significant others are definitely the family that they all need. I love seeing the glimpses into the future with the epilogues, as well.
January 31, 2025
Tropes
Fake dating
Sports romance
Sunshine and kind sunshine
Farm life
My Thoughts
A slow burn romance with humans who are flawed and have doubts. Annie just got out of an emotionally abusive relationship and Cade is seeking to shake a girl who’s clinging to him. They decide to start a fake dating relationship. Along the way, they start learning about each other and slowly falling in love. He’s the one who gets there first. His heritage is Korean, at some point in the story he shows her food from his heritage. They learn from each other how to set healthy boundaries for their families. The sports portion of the story played a minimal role. The story is well written and enjoyable to the end. I would love to be friends with them.
Triggers
Spice
It took a bit to get there but once it did it was very descriptive and well written. The writer took care of showing how a guy who is secure in his masculinity should behave toward women by ensuring she gets there first.
Fake dating
Sports romance
Sunshine and kind sunshine
Farm life
My Thoughts
A slow burn romance with humans who are flawed and have doubts. Annie just got out of an emotionally abusive relationship and Cade is seeking to shake a girl who’s clinging to him. They decide to start a fake dating relationship. Along the way, they start learning about each other and slowly falling in love. He’s the one who gets there first. His heritage is Korean, at some point in the story he shows her food from his heritage. They learn from each other how to set healthy boundaries for their families. The sports portion of the story played a minimal role. The story is well written and enjoyable to the end. I would love to be friends with them.
Triggers
Spice
It took a bit to get there but once it did it was very descriptive and well written. The writer took care of showing how a guy who is secure in his masculinity should behave toward women by ensuring she gets there first.
February 6, 2025
Review:
🏒Blindsided By The Enforcer
Riverside U #3
By R.C. Stephens
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
⭐ 5/5
Annie, a caring girl but full of doubts
Cade, warm, nice and very caring and supporting
Annie’s thought: We aren’t our parents; we are Cade and Annie. A love like ours is once in a lifetime.
Quote:”Baby, there are no buts, I love you with all my heart.”
Cade and Annie
Back at Riverside U and diving into the next love story with Cade and Annie.
What was supposed to be pretend is getting the lines blurred. They were on friendly terms because they have mutual friends. But when Cade is in need of help, Annie dives in without a second thought.
That is how they get in their arrangement. Leaning on each other and understanding each other in a way they haven’t had with anybody else, Cade and Annie become closer without trying.
but fears, doubts, bad experiences and terrible role models are constantly on their minds and holding them back from moving forward. Even if they want to. Chemistry, attraction and undiscovered feelings are their companions. Slowly they untangle their mess and understand what they are feeling. But before they confess to each other, they have to come clean. With their pasts and each other. Because there is always more than you first thought. But with their beautiful characters and patience they get through it all.
A hard fought way to the happy end, but definitely worth the wait.
🏒Blindsided By The Enforcer
Riverside U #3
By R.C. Stephens
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
⭐ 5/5
Annie, a caring girl but full of doubts
Cade, warm, nice and very caring and supporting
Annie’s thought: We aren’t our parents; we are Cade and Annie. A love like ours is once in a lifetime.
Quote:”Baby, there are no buts, I love you with all my heart.”
Cade and Annie
Back at Riverside U and diving into the next love story with Cade and Annie.
What was supposed to be pretend is getting the lines blurred. They were on friendly terms because they have mutual friends. But when Cade is in need of help, Annie dives in without a second thought.
That is how they get in their arrangement. Leaning on each other and understanding each other in a way they haven’t had with anybody else, Cade and Annie become closer without trying.
but fears, doubts, bad experiences and terrible role models are constantly on their minds and holding them back from moving forward. Even if they want to. Chemistry, attraction and undiscovered feelings are their companions. Slowly they untangle their mess and understand what they are feeling. But before they confess to each other, they have to come clean. With their pasts and each other. Because there is always more than you first thought. But with their beautiful characters and patience they get through it all.
A hard fought way to the happy end, but definitely worth the wait.
February 2, 2025
Blindsided by the Enforcer is an amazing read. This is book 3 in the Riverside U series but can be a standalone. This is Cade and Annie's book. Annie is sweet and anti relationship after a couple of bad relationships and seeing how her parents are. She loves her family farm and hopes to take over or follow her path of love of animals. Cade is a member of the hockey team and he's more of a lover then a fighter he is supposed to be. He is a sweetheart and you feel for him as he finally faces the truth in his relationship. Cade and Annie are thrown together through mutual friends and form a friendship. I love the chemistry. It's a slow build but you feel that attraction as they try to pull the fake relationship card to get their ex's off their backs. You will love how they lift each other up and stand up to their parents and ex's. Cade and Annie are amazing together. I could not get enough of them. I didn't want to put this down. I cannot wait for more to come in the Riverside U series. You need to read this series and book if you haven't yet. Go one click this today.
February 5, 2025
Blindsided By The Enforcer ( Riverside U Just when I thought there was no way this amazing series could possibly get any better ; well to say I was proven wrong would be a huge understatement. Annie and Cades journey just may be my favorite yet . I mean who doesn’t love friends with benefits, fake relationship, he falls first and college hockey romances ? Well if you do look no further because you have found the perfect book / series . Oh how I adored Cade and Annie so so much. The way everything they went with pulled at all my heartstrings. All the emotions I felt while reading- smiling, laughing, crying, even yelling outta pure frustration and cheering from start to finish. Both have not had it easy . Both have emotional struggles they’re dealing with . But when they come together they really are so perfect , like two pieces of a puzzle . Blindsided By The Enforcer is so much more than your typical sports romance. It’s so beautiful and extremely emotional. It’s the type of story that will grab onto your heart and will not let go !!!
February 10, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
“𝔹𝕒𝕓𝕪, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕤…𝕀 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥…”
LISTEN LINDA! I’m not always a fan of slow burn and cinnamon roll / golden retriever MMC’s…BUT! Cade Price is the ABSOLUTE EXCEPTION! This man deserves the world and I wanted to jump into the book and give it to him 🥹
This is a friends to lovers x fake dating x hockey x college romance done SO WELL!!!
Annie is probably the most loveable FMC I’ve read in a long time. You just want to hug her and be her friend. Cade and Annie are friends who are both going through a really tough time emotionally and mentally with a past relationship and family. Annie “helps” Cade by kissing him in front of his crazy ex who won’t leave him alone. That single act leads them down the path of fake dating in an effort to help each other.
What starts out as friends helping each other through a tough time turns into something beautiful. We get to see how Annie and Cades friendship blossoms and really grows. All while they are falling for each other…and HARD!
It’s the kind of story that will have you laughing, crying, smiling and kicking your feet and cheering them on the whole way 💙
🏒Fake Relationship
🐄Friends with Benefits
🏒College Hockey
🐄Forced Proximity
🏒He falls first
🐄Golden Retriever Hero
🏒She’s scared of relationships
“𝔹𝕒𝕓𝕪, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠 𝕓𝕦𝕥𝕤…𝕀 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥…”
LISTEN LINDA! I’m not always a fan of slow burn and cinnamon roll / golden retriever MMC’s…BUT! Cade Price is the ABSOLUTE EXCEPTION! This man deserves the world and I wanted to jump into the book and give it to him 🥹
This is a friends to lovers x fake dating x hockey x college romance done SO WELL!!!
Annie is probably the most loveable FMC I’ve read in a long time. You just want to hug her and be her friend. Cade and Annie are friends who are both going through a really tough time emotionally and mentally with a past relationship and family. Annie “helps” Cade by kissing him in front of his crazy ex who won’t leave him alone. That single act leads them down the path of fake dating in an effort to help each other.
What starts out as friends helping each other through a tough time turns into something beautiful. We get to see how Annie and Cades friendship blossoms and really grows. All while they are falling for each other…and HARD!
It’s the kind of story that will have you laughing, crying, smiling and kicking your feet and cheering them on the whole way 💙
🏒Fake Relationship
🐄Friends with Benefits
🏒College Hockey
🐄Forced Proximity
🏒He falls first
🐄Golden Retriever Hero
🏒She’s scared of relationships
February 16, 2025
"Another great addition to this series. Annie & Cade's story had me all up in my feelings pretty much right from the start. My heart broke for the both of them, for many different reasons, and if there were ever two people who needed to find their person it was this pair.
Both come with baggage - both family & personal. So, the idea of fake dating totally makes sense even if it's only coming from a mental health perspective. But to read these two broken people grow individually because of this, was what made this book so special to read. Not forgetting the past but being able to move on from it with the right person by your side. Just beautiful and definitely deserves more than the 5 stars I was only allowed to give it." ~Sharon
I want myself a Cade! Nothing like a searing hot first kiss to really start things off and end with all of their dreams coming true huh? Great story and characters ~Jen
Both come with baggage - both family & personal. So, the idea of fake dating totally makes sense even if it's only coming from a mental health perspective. But to read these two broken people grow individually because of this, was what made this book so special to read. Not forgetting the past but being able to move on from it with the right person by your side. Just beautiful and definitely deserves more than the 5 stars I was only allowed to give it." ~Sharon
I want myself a Cade! Nothing like a searing hot first kiss to really start things off and end with all of their dreams coming true huh? Great story and characters ~Jen
February 6, 2025
Another great addition to the Riverside U series! We see things start to build with Cade and Annie in the previous book so I was really excited for their story.
Cade is known for playing rough in the hockey rink. He’s having trouble shaking off his ex girlfriend and Annie becomes the perfect distraction. When they share a kiss in public in front of their friends, things between them start to change. They find that a fake relationship is mutually beneficial so what could possibly go wrong?
Cade is the ultimate cinnamon roll MMC. He’s so gone for Annie and doesn’t even realize it at first. He notices all the little things about Annie and wants to know the real her. She can see past his hockey persona and the kind, generous man he actually is. I loved these two so much! I cannot wait to see what’s next!
Cade is known for playing rough in the hockey rink. He’s having trouble shaking off his ex girlfriend and Annie becomes the perfect distraction. When they share a kiss in public in front of their friends, things between them start to change. They find that a fake relationship is mutually beneficial so what could possibly go wrong?
Cade is the ultimate cinnamon roll MMC. He’s so gone for Annie and doesn’t even realize it at first. He notices all the little things about Annie and wants to know the real her. She can see past his hockey persona and the kind, generous man he actually is. I loved these two so much! I cannot wait to see what’s next!
February 8, 2025
When it comes to hockey Cade is torn between following the path his father wants him to take and the path that he wants to take. When he finds out that his girlfriend hasn’t been faithful all he wants to do is distance himself however she doesn’t make that easy but hopefully a pretend relationship with Annie will make things less complicated, right?
All Annie wants to do is finish school and return to help with her family’s dairy farm. After the way her ex treated her, she wants nothing to do with him however he isn’t about to just let her walk away. Pretending to be a couple seems like the perfect solution for them both.
Both Cade and Annie are going through a similar situation not only when it comes to their pasts but their families as well. This allows them to understand and support each other as their arrangement turns into a love that neither saw coming.
All Annie wants to do is finish school and return to help with her family’s dairy farm. After the way her ex treated her, she wants nothing to do with him however he isn’t about to just let her walk away. Pretending to be a couple seems like the perfect solution for them both.
Both Cade and Annie are going through a similar situation not only when it comes to their pasts but their families as well. This allows them to understand and support each other as their arrangement turns into a love that neither saw coming.
February 6, 2025
Another great addition to this series. Annie & Cade's story had me all up in my feelings pretty much right from the start. My heart broke for the both of them, for many different reasons, and if there were ever two people who needed to find their person it was this pair.
Both come with baggage - both family & personal. So, the idea of fake dating totally makes sense even if it's only coming from a mental health perspective. But to read these two broken people grow individually because of this, was what made this book so special to read. Not forgetting the past but being able to move on from it with the right person by your side. Just beautiful and definitely deserves more than the 5 stars I was only allowed to give it.
Both come with baggage - both family & personal. So, the idea of fake dating totally makes sense even if it's only coming from a mental health perspective. But to read these two broken people grow individually because of this, was what made this book so special to read. Not forgetting the past but being able to move on from it with the right person by your side. Just beautiful and definitely deserves more than the 5 stars I was only allowed to give it.
February 8, 2025
Throwing Axes and kissing new friends. That's how Cade and Annie's story starts. One kiss with some serious chemistry leads to a favor between these new friends. A fake relationship to save these two from their ex's.
These two both deserve to find happiness with someone else but they've both got to find their own worth. They had not so great role models. They find themselves sharing and opening up with each other about things they normally wouldn't share with anyone.
There are also some very new feelings neither is quite sure how to explain.
This might be my favorite of the series, it is sweet in so many ways, it also has the characters changing and growing and the journey is really nice to see.
I have voluntarily left this review.
These two both deserve to find happiness with someone else but they've both got to find their own worth. They had not so great role models. They find themselves sharing and opening up with each other about things they normally wouldn't share with anyone.
There are also some very new feelings neither is quite sure how to explain.
This might be my favorite of the series, it is sweet in so many ways, it also has the characters changing and growing and the journey is really nice to see.
I have voluntarily left this review.
February 8, 2025
How do you keep the ex at bay? Fake date your friend. It was that simple for Annie. She needs to keep her cheating ex away from her and her family so she goes to the one person she knows is in sort of the same bind and hatches a plan to help one another out. The one thing she forgot while hatching said plan?? Their serious chemistry.
Cade has never felt a connection as he has with Annie. She is fun honest and filled with an optimism about what she wants. His job now is to convince her that their fake arrangement has been anything but fake from the very beginning.
A beautiful romance for two people that have had no examples of what a true loving relationship would look like. Two people that are going to show they live by their own rules and have it all.
Cade has never felt a connection as he has with Annie. She is fun honest and filled with an optimism about what she wants. His job now is to convince her that their fake arrangement has been anything but fake from the very beginning.
A beautiful romance for two people that have had no examples of what a true loving relationship would look like. Two people that are going to show they live by their own rules and have it all.
February 7, 2025
This is the third book in this amazing series and this is Cade and Annie’s story.
Annie broke things off with her cheating ex, who is now stalking her to get back together, but she steps in to help Cade, who has his own ex issues, and she comes up with a mutually beneficial arrangement.
This is a well written story which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, drama, fake relationship, forced proximity, insecurities, friends with benefits, humor, witty banter, twists, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and compelling college romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Annie broke things off with her cheating ex, who is now stalking her to get back together, but she steps in to help Cade, who has his own ex issues, and she comes up with a mutually beneficial arrangement.
This is a well written story which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, drama, fake relationship, forced proximity, insecurities, friends with benefits, humor, witty banter, twists, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and compelling college romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 2, 2025
⭐,5/5
It was ok but somethings felt off, a couple of you're instead of yours and little details that weren't coherent like Cade drinking coffee in the mornings but suddenly switched to juice after Christmas.
Also, I felt that there were things left to tell in between, like it was missing some parts ¿?
I don't know if I'm making any sense but time-to-time I had this weird feeling that either the scenes lacked development or the connection between them was strange. As if they were scenes that came from different places and came together but didn't make sense.
I'm sad cause I loved Cade and Annie, they were so sweet, I wanted to liked it more.
It was ok but somethings felt off, a couple of you're instead of yours and little details that weren't coherent like Cade drinking coffee in the mornings but suddenly switched to juice after Christmas.
Also, I felt that there were things left to tell in between, like it was missing some parts ¿?
I don't know if I'm making any sense but time-to-time I had this weird feeling that either the scenes lacked development or the connection between them was strange. As if they were scenes that came from different places and came together but didn't make sense.
I'm sad cause I loved Cade and Annie, they were so sweet, I wanted to liked it more.
March 26, 2025
cute story, dialogue less than to be desired
I thought the story was adorable. I kept getting thrown out of it, the dialogue felt forced and awkward. Not how you’d think college students would speak to one another. “I’ll launder your clothes” odd. “Throw your clothes in the laundry since my goat shit on you” feels more likely in a college romance novel. This isn’t set back in time, they text, post photos on social sites, etc., The spicy scenes were great, but the overall structure of the dialogue was off kilter.
You really learned about each character in depth, and then it was wrapped up very quickly.
I thought the story was adorable. I kept getting thrown out of it, the dialogue felt forced and awkward. Not how you’d think college students would speak to one another. “I’ll launder your clothes” odd. “Throw your clothes in the laundry since my goat shit on you” feels more likely in a college romance novel. This isn’t set back in time, they text, post photos on social sites, etc., The spicy scenes were great, but the overall structure of the dialogue was off kilter.
You really learned about each character in depth, and then it was wrapped up very quickly.
February 6, 2025
Getting to visit Riverside U and this close knit group of friends is always a highlight! Annie and Cade definitely start with a spark! Their fake relationship grows into a friendship and I enjoyed that journey. I felt pulled into their connection, how their friendship grew, and how, even though their lives are so different, there are definite similarities that they can bond over. The chemistry is strong, with sweetness, light, and heat. It's a great read from start to finish!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 6, 2025
Fun fake dating romance
This is a fake dating trope done right. While there was obviously chemistry between the main characters, they both had plenty of baggage that laid the foundation for an emotional story. I loved the way the relationship progresses in a completely natural, unrushed, realistic way. Both Cade and Annie were lovable and easy to root for. Great story that encompasses more than just the two at the center, with plenty of family drama and interactions that were just as meaningful.
This is a fake dating trope done right. While there was obviously chemistry between the main characters, they both had plenty of baggage that laid the foundation for an emotional story. I loved the way the relationship progresses in a completely natural, unrushed, realistic way. Both Cade and Annie were lovable and easy to root for. Great story that encompasses more than just the two at the center, with plenty of family drama and interactions that were just as meaningful.
February 7, 2025
Slow to Realize
Both Cade and Annie have been burned by relationships, so when they start fake dating to deter their exes, their friendship ignites into something more. This slow burn story was exciting and hard to put down. I honestly felt the emotional tension the entire time. Family complications added angst and drama that drove this book to its entertaining climax. I had a great time reading this latest R.C. Stephen's story and can't wait for more.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Both Cade and Annie have been burned by relationships, so when they start fake dating to deter their exes, their friendship ignites into something more. This slow burn story was exciting and hard to put down. I honestly felt the emotional tension the entire time. Family complications added angst and drama that drove this book to its entertaining climax. I had a great time reading this latest R.C. Stephen's story and can't wait for more.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
February 8, 2025
This is such a good read.
Both Annie and Cade are in need of help to keep their cheating ex's at bay so why not help each other out.
I loved how they were together and the chemistry between them is off the charts. It isn't long before they become closer and they are now in a fake relationship with benefits.
More than a few ups and downs but also plenty of good times but can fake turn real.
A must read with a great ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both Annie and Cade are in need of help to keep their cheating ex's at bay so why not help each other out.
I loved how they were together and the chemistry between them is off the charts. It isn't long before they become closer and they are now in a fake relationship with benefits.
More than a few ups and downs but also plenty of good times but can fake turn real.
A must read with a great ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2025
Blindsided by the Enforcer is a fun, emotional, and beautifully written slow burn, hockey romance. Annie and Cade's relationship starts out as friend helping each other and blossom into so much more. They have amazing chemistry and it is beautiful to see them fall for each other. This story is intriguing with a little bit of drama, great characters and a some great banter. I really enjoyed this hockey romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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