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Saints Hockey #2
You're The One
He's her enemy. She's his endgame.
Dominic Fox is as well known for his playboy reputation as he is for his hockey stats. Ready for love? That’s new. Turns out, finding it is harder than scoring a hat trick. After one too many disastrous first dates, signing up for a reality dating show seems like the next logical step.
Until his teammate’s little sister steps out of the limo. The woman who’s made an art of giving him nothing but sass and side-eye.
Mia Matthews has spent her life running from expectations, anxiety, and anyone who gets too close. A few weeks in the sun sounds like the perfect escape. Leave it to her brother’s best friend, who coasts on charm and a too-bright smile, to ruin it.
Their deal? He’ll keep her on the show long enough to enjoy the free vacation, and she’ll play matchmaker to help him find “the one.”
No feelings. No funny business.
But as Mia sets Dominic up with perfect matches—and okay, a few questionable ones—they start to let their guards down. And she realizes there’s more to him than she ever let herself see.
Too bad falling for him wasn’t part of the deal. Or her plans.
Dominic Fox is as well known for his playboy reputation as he is for his hockey stats. Ready for love? That’s new. Turns out, finding it is harder than scoring a hat trick. After one too many disastrous first dates, signing up for a reality dating show seems like the next logical step.
Until his teammate’s little sister steps out of the limo. The woman who’s made an art of giving him nothing but sass and side-eye.
Mia Matthews has spent her life running from expectations, anxiety, and anyone who gets too close. A few weeks in the sun sounds like the perfect escape. Leave it to her brother’s best friend, who coasts on charm and a too-bright smile, to ruin it.
Their deal? He’ll keep her on the show long enough to enjoy the free vacation, and she’ll play matchmaker to help him find “the one.”
No feelings. No funny business.
But as Mia sets Dominic up with perfect matches—and okay, a few questionable ones—they start to let their guards down. And she realizes there’s more to him than she ever let herself see.
Too bad falling for him wasn’t part of the deal. Or her plans.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 4, 2025
444 people are currently reading
2404 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Callan
3 books89 followersNikki writes romance, blending heart, heat, humor, and hockey players. She lives for swoon-worthy moments, flawed but lovable characters, and happily ever afters that leave you giggling and kicking your feet. When she’s not crafting her next book boyfriend, she’s diving into her never-ending TBR, hanging out with her dogs, or roping her partner into another DIY project.
Stay updated on her latest by following along on social media: @authornikkicallan.
Stay updated on her latest by following along on social media: @authornikkicallan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
September 4, 2025
Dom & Mia.
Nikki! GIRL! This is my second book from Nikki Callan and girl, you knocked it out of the park.
Usually, with an enemies to lovers trope I tend to shy away but the blurb sold this book. Both Dom and Mia end up on the same reality dating show they both secretly watch. What could be better? Them falling in love!
I was ten toes down in this book until the final pages. Nikki did a great job of keeping the pacing going and there wasn't any lagging in the chapters.
I loved how Dom could quiet the bees for Mia and how Mia saw sides to Dom she never allowed herself to see before. & when Mia finally let Dom in.. the sweet moments they were allowed to have matched the heat of the attraction between these two.
Thank you to Love Note PR & the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
PS I cannot wait to read book 3 in this series.
Nikki! GIRL! This is my second book from Nikki Callan and girl, you knocked it out of the park.
Usually, with an enemies to lovers trope I tend to shy away but the blurb sold this book. Both Dom and Mia end up on the same reality dating show they both secretly watch. What could be better? Them falling in love!
I was ten toes down in this book until the final pages. Nikki did a great job of keeping the pacing going and there wasn't any lagging in the chapters.
I loved how Dom could quiet the bees for Mia and how Mia saw sides to Dom she never allowed herself to see before. & when Mia finally let Dom in.. the sweet moments they were allowed to have matched the heat of the attraction between these two.
Thank you to Love Note PR & the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
PS I cannot wait to read book 3 in this series.
August 28, 2025
I thought this was such a fun read, and it felt especially fitting for the NHL off-season (and for me, since I’m really missing hockey right now). I was immediately intrigued by how the bachelor-style concept would play out for Mia and Dominic once they were introduced. The black-cat-and-golden-retriever dynamic between them was so entertaining, and it made their eventual romance all the sweeter.
I’ll be honest—I had to sit with Mia’s character for a bit. There were moments when her actions irked me, but with her mental health struggles, I thought her portrayal was really well done. In fact, I found myself connecting with Mia in how she navigates her battles (I realize I have been called out by this character). She’s built walls around herself and struggles to let people in, but over time she learns to trust, and that journey really resonated with me. Her story even inspired me to reflect on myself and how I move forward.
Dominic, on the other hand, was the sweetest. He truly has a golden heart and means everything he says. There’s so much more depth to him than Mia—or the world—realizes. I loved how much he longed for something real and lasting in his life. With Mia, he was steady, supportive, and never judgmental, no matter what she was feeling or going through. His loyalty to her was deeply touching.
Overall, this was such a sweet story. If you enjoy reality TV dating shows, this one is definitely up your alley. And by the end, you’ll probably find yourself wishing for your own Dominic Fox.
Thank you Nikki Callan and Love Notes PR for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
I’ll be honest—I had to sit with Mia’s character for a bit. There were moments when her actions irked me, but with her mental health struggles, I thought her portrayal was really well done. In fact, I found myself connecting with Mia in how she navigates her battles (I realize I have been called out by this character). She’s built walls around herself and struggles to let people in, but over time she learns to trust, and that journey really resonated with me. Her story even inspired me to reflect on myself and how I move forward.
Dominic, on the other hand, was the sweetest. He truly has a golden heart and means everything he says. There’s so much more depth to him than Mia—or the world—realizes. I loved how much he longed for something real and lasting in his life. With Mia, he was steady, supportive, and never judgmental, no matter what she was feeling or going through. His loyalty to her was deeply touching.
Overall, this was such a sweet story. If you enjoy reality TV dating shows, this one is definitely up your alley. And by the end, you’ll probably find yourself wishing for your own Dominic Fox.
Thank you Nikki Callan and Love Notes PR for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
September 11, 2025
3 ★
⋆˚࿔ unfortunately i didn’t enjoy this book as much as i expected. the beginning was quite slow and i found it difficult to stay engaged. i also couldn’t really feel the chemistry between the characters until closer to the end when there was finally a bit of progress in their relationship. honestly the whole story gave me love island vibes with lots of drama and surface-level interactions which isn’t really my thing. still, i did enjoy some scenes here and there but overall it just didn’t click with me the way i had hoped.
Thank you to Nikki Callan & Love Note PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆˚࿔ unfortunately i didn’t enjoy this book as much as i expected. the beginning was quite slow and i found it difficult to stay engaged. i also couldn’t really feel the chemistry between the characters until closer to the end when there was finally a bit of progress in their relationship. honestly the whole story gave me love island vibes with lots of drama and surface-level interactions which isn’t really my thing. still, i did enjoy some scenes here and there but overall it just didn’t click with me the way i had hoped.
Thank you to Nikki Callan & Love Note PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
September 8, 2025
After his teammate and friend found his love Dom has realized that he’s ready for his *one.* So after yet another failed first date he decides to find his *one* via the TV show You’re The One. Mia has been going through life like a leaf blown by the wind. She’s always running to different places trying to figure out what to do with her life. so she decides to take a free vacation being a contestant on You’re The One. Not knowing that Dom, her brother’s friend and teammate is going to be the bachelor looking for love. Dom - who she can’t stand and who’s tearing down her walls one by one.
You’re The One is book 2 in the Saints Hockey Book Series by Nikki Callan. It’s a standalone in an interconnected series. I haven’t read book 1 and I didn’t feel like I won't be able to read book 1 because there weren't any spoilers in book 2 for book 1.
I’m not the biggest fan of those reality tv series where someone wants to find love so I was a bit skeptical about this book. But the best friend’s little sister and enemies to lovers tropes drew me in.
I had a hard time connecting to Mia which honestly surprised me because we’re more alike than I would like to admit but after getting to know her better, hearing her story and what she’s going through I could really relate to her and I felt deeply for her. Dom I loved right from the start. He’s charming, funny, happy and has so much layers to him. I also enjoyed the storyline with the whole tv show, mostly because there was no unnecessary drama but a lot of fun, amazing women and a few misunderstandings to add some suspense. The pages just flew by while the story captured me and I’m excited to see which Saint is next in finding love. I know I want it to be Volk. 😍
You’re The One is book 2 in the Saints Hockey Book Series by Nikki Callan. It’s a standalone in an interconnected series. I haven’t read book 1 and I didn’t feel like I won't be able to read book 1 because there weren't any spoilers in book 2 for book 1.
I’m not the biggest fan of those reality tv series where someone wants to find love so I was a bit skeptical about this book. But the best friend’s little sister and enemies to lovers tropes drew me in.
I had a hard time connecting to Mia which honestly surprised me because we’re more alike than I would like to admit but after getting to know her better, hearing her story and what she’s going through I could really relate to her and I felt deeply for her. Dom I loved right from the start. He’s charming, funny, happy and has so much layers to him. I also enjoyed the storyline with the whole tv show, mostly because there was no unnecessary drama but a lot of fun, amazing women and a few misunderstandings to add some suspense. The pages just flew by while the story captured me and I’m excited to see which Saint is next in finding love. I know I want it to be Volk. 😍
September 30, 2025
✨ brother’s best friend
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ reverse grumpy x sunshine
✨ reality dating show
✨ forced proximity
✨ forbidden
I read this story earlier this month and I loved it so much! Mia and Dominic immediately had this push and pull that drew you to them. Their easy banter and tension jumped off the pages from the very beginning and I couldn’t wait to see what they got up.
Their forced proximity of the dating show was by far some of my favorite moments and how Dominic couldn’t keep his eyes off Mia from the start. How he always seemed aware of where she is and what she’s doing. And soon she’s all he starts to see. They’re hidden away moments together while also having Dominic search for that companionship he’s been wanting.
They were spicy sweet, I love watching the girls make friends during the reality show, the way Dominic and Mia slowly open up and fall for each other. Adding in a little bit of drama that comes along with the reality show I ate this up so fast! A must read by me!
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ reverse grumpy x sunshine
✨ reality dating show
✨ forced proximity
✨ forbidden
I read this story earlier this month and I loved it so much! Mia and Dominic immediately had this push and pull that drew you to them. Their easy banter and tension jumped off the pages from the very beginning and I couldn’t wait to see what they got up.
Their forced proximity of the dating show was by far some of my favorite moments and how Dominic couldn’t keep his eyes off Mia from the start. How he always seemed aware of where she is and what she’s doing. And soon she’s all he starts to see. They’re hidden away moments together while also having Dominic search for that companionship he’s been wanting.
They were spicy sweet, I love watching the girls make friends during the reality show, the way Dominic and Mia slowly open up and fall for each other. Adding in a little bit of drama that comes along with the reality show I ate this up so fast! A must read by me!
Read
August 31, 2025Dominic Fox es una estrella de hockey que lo tiene casi todo: fama, dinero y un lugar asegurado en la liga. Pero lo único que no logra conseguir es aquello que más desea: una relación real. Harto de citas superficiales, decide dar un giro inesperado a su vida aceptando ser el próximo protagonista del reality You’re The One, donde encontrará a su pareja ideal entre un grupo de candidatas dispuestas a enamorarlo frente a las cámaras.
Lo que no imagina es que entre esas mujeres aparecerá alguien que jamás esperó: Mia Matthews, la hermana menor de su mejor amigo y la chica que parece odiarlo desde siempre. Su relación se ha basado en pullas, discusiones y una tensión constante, pero cuando el destino los obliga a convivir en un escenario lleno de competencia, cámaras y falsas sonrisas, la chispa entre ellos se vuelve imposible de ignorar.
Mia no cree en el amor televisado, y mucho menos en que Dominic pueda ser su indicado, pero acepta el reto como una forma de escapar de su propia vida y de los fantasmas personales que arrastra. Entre juegos, citas forzadas y momentos de vulnerabilidad inesperada, ambos descubrirán que a veces el amor se esconde en las peleas más intensas y en las personas que juramos no soportar.
Gracias Love Notes PR por el ARC.
Lo que no imagina es que entre esas mujeres aparecerá alguien que jamás esperó: Mia Matthews, la hermana menor de su mejor amigo y la chica que parece odiarlo desde siempre. Su relación se ha basado en pullas, discusiones y una tensión constante, pero cuando el destino los obliga a convivir en un escenario lleno de competencia, cámaras y falsas sonrisas, la chispa entre ellos se vuelve imposible de ignorar.
Mia no cree en el amor televisado, y mucho menos en que Dominic pueda ser su indicado, pero acepta el reto como una forma de escapar de su propia vida y de los fantasmas personales que arrastra. Entre juegos, citas forzadas y momentos de vulnerabilidad inesperada, ambos descubrirán que a veces el amor se esconde en las peleas más intensas y en las personas que juramos no soportar.
Gracias Love Notes PR por el ARC.
September 4, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Dominic Fox is the brother’s teammate and best friend who is perpetually happy.
Mia is the young, unemployed sister who has no life plan and a permanent scowl when Dominic is in her presence.
When Dominic decides to become the lead on a dating show to find his true love after many failed dates, he never expected Mia to be the last girl out of the limo. Mia went on the show for her next life adventure with no hopes of love and only seeking a free trip.
Dominic and Mia come to an understanding on night one - she helps him as a spy for the right girl and he keeps her on the show for a free vacation.
As the show continues, Dominic and Mia become closer and realizes the other isn’t who they thought once their walls start coming down in secret moments off camera.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship. The mental health representation through Mia was handled amazingly and Dominic was the perfect comfort during the “dark days”.
The ARC didn’t include an epilogue so I’m hoping the released version has one to give more after the show airs and everyone’s reactions to it all.
Tropes:
Brother’s best friend
Age gap
Hockey romance
Enemies to lovers
Grumpy X Sunshine
Dominic Fox is the brother’s teammate and best friend who is perpetually happy.
Mia is the young, unemployed sister who has no life plan and a permanent scowl when Dominic is in her presence.
When Dominic decides to become the lead on a dating show to find his true love after many failed dates, he never expected Mia to be the last girl out of the limo. Mia went on the show for her next life adventure with no hopes of love and only seeking a free trip.
Dominic and Mia come to an understanding on night one - she helps him as a spy for the right girl and he keeps her on the show for a free vacation.
As the show continues, Dominic and Mia become closer and realizes the other isn’t who they thought once their walls start coming down in secret moments off camera.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship. The mental health representation through Mia was handled amazingly and Dominic was the perfect comfort during the “dark days”.
The ARC didn’t include an epilogue so I’m hoping the released version has one to give more after the show airs and everyone’s reactions to it all.
Tropes:
Brother’s best friend
Age gap
Hockey romance
Enemies to lovers
Grumpy X Sunshine
September 9, 2025
ARC review
You're the one by Nikki Callan
They are actually so cute! ❤️ I love their bickering and the tension between them. I really like how their story develops and how close they become.
I also love how protective and caring Dominic is with her. And Mia... I truly hope she gets through this anxiety episoade. I could feel everything she said so deeply. 😔
Summer is amazing too - such a good friend, especially considering they haven't known each other for that long. She's exactly the kind of friend Mia needs. I loved the scene with Summer and Dom, she is so funny!
And this line.... "I already chose you. Before I even realized it was an option. I just been waiting for you to catch up". Awwww 😭
This book has such an interesting story, I devoured it so quickly - it really got me hooked from the start.
Tropes you'll find in this book:
Best friend's sister
Sunshine × grumpy
Hate each other
Hockey player
He falls first
Age gap
If you like these tropes, this book is totally for you! 🤗
Thank you Nikki Callan and Love Notes PR for a copy of this book. 💗✨️
You're the one by Nikki Callan
They are actually so cute! ❤️ I love their bickering and the tension between them. I really like how their story develops and how close they become.
I also love how protective and caring Dominic is with her. And Mia... I truly hope she gets through this anxiety episoade. I could feel everything she said so deeply. 😔
Summer is amazing too - such a good friend, especially considering they haven't known each other for that long. She's exactly the kind of friend Mia needs. I loved the scene with Summer and Dom, she is so funny!
And this line.... "I already chose you. Before I even realized it was an option. I just been waiting for you to catch up". Awwww 😭
This book has such an interesting story, I devoured it so quickly - it really got me hooked from the start.
Tropes you'll find in this book:
Best friend's sister
Sunshine × grumpy
Hate each other
Hockey player
He falls first
Age gap
If you like these tropes, this book is totally for you! 🤗
Thank you Nikki Callan and Love Notes PR for a copy of this book. 💗✨️
August 25, 2025
This book follows Dominic, an NHL hockey player, and Mia, his best friend’s little sister. Dom has just been chosen as the new bachelor on the dating show You’re the One—but what he doesn’t expect is for Mia to show up as one of the contestants. She had no idea he’d be the bachelor when she signed up, but once she finds out, she decides to go through with it anyway.
What unfolds is a hilarious, sweet, and absolutely addictive enemies-to-lovers romance. The banter, the tension, the chemistry—it’s all there, and Nikki captures it perfectly. From the very first page, I was completely hooked. I literally devoured this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down.
This story is charming, funny, and full of heart. I’ll be recommending it from the rooftops once it’s released because it’s just that good. Nikki outdid herself with this one!
What unfolds is a hilarious, sweet, and absolutely addictive enemies-to-lovers romance. The banter, the tension, the chemistry—it’s all there, and Nikki captures it perfectly. From the very first page, I was completely hooked. I literally devoured this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down.
This story is charming, funny, and full of heart. I’ll be recommending it from the rooftops once it’s released because it’s just that good. Nikki outdid herself with this one!
August 27, 2025
I want to thank the author for gracing us with another amazing hockey romance! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m salivating waiting for Book 3!
This book resembles the Bachelor with the main male character on the show is Dominic, Logan’s neighbor teammate and best friend and the boy his sister Mia can’t stand. Dominic loves the show You’re the One and decides he’s ready for his one and applies for the show unknowing that Mia applied to be on the show for a free vacation. It was cute and sweet seeing them fall in love and be smitten with each other. This book also has a great representation of anxiety and mental health.
I devoured this book in a few days and fell in love with these characters and the fictional show!
This book resembles the Bachelor with the main male character on the show is Dominic, Logan’s neighbor teammate and best friend and the boy his sister Mia can’t stand. Dominic loves the show You’re the One and decides he’s ready for his one and applies for the show unknowing that Mia applied to be on the show for a free vacation. It was cute and sweet seeing them fall in love and be smitten with each other. This book also has a great representation of anxiety and mental health.
I devoured this book in a few days and fell in love with these characters and the fictional show!
August 29, 2025
First thank you so much for this ARC! I had the best time reading this book! I love the mental health rep that it had, it was easy to connect with the characters 🩷
Mia was so real and honest, I understand her so much and I love how Dominic was with her! Always there for her trying to understand her and just showing her how much she meant to him! And for the love of god he reads romance books just because he likes them and has a book club 😮💨🩷🩷🩷 I love reading how he fall for Mia so hard and fast!
It truly is a beautiful story and it’s funny too! The banter is 🤌🏻 chef kiss
Mia was so real and honest, I understand her so much and I love how Dominic was with her! Always there for her trying to understand her and just showing her how much she meant to him! And for the love of god he reads romance books just because he likes them and has a book club 😮💨🩷🩷🩷 I love reading how he fall for Mia so hard and fast!
It truly is a beautiful story and it’s funny too! The banter is 🤌🏻 chef kiss
September 10, 2025
ARC Review - You are the one 💗
Omg!! Bestfriend's trope is becoming one of my favourites nowadays. Also I'm loving sports romances . I loved how this book explores about mental health as well + I loved the set of the characters , it was something new for me tbh .
So we have dominic ( The MMC) and Mia ( The FMC ) . They make a deal which turns out to be their fate eventually. I loved their banter + I'm a enemies to lovers trope girlie , so it make sense .
Final verdict - Just grab the book and read , you'll thank me later I promise ❤️
Rating - 4/5 ⭐
Omg!! Bestfriend's trope is becoming one of my favourites nowadays. Also I'm loving sports romances . I loved how this book explores about mental health as well + I loved the set of the characters , it was something new for me tbh .
So we have dominic ( The MMC) and Mia ( The FMC ) . They make a deal which turns out to be their fate eventually. I loved their banter + I'm a enemies to lovers trope girlie , so it make sense .
Final verdict - Just grab the book and read , you'll thank me later I promise ❤️
Rating - 4/5 ⭐
September 18, 2025
Dominic never thought he had a chance with Mia, his best friend's sister. He decided to go on the TV show "You're the One" (think The Bachelor). When Mia shows up as one of the contestants, Dom is blown away. Join Dom as he navigates the twists and turns of the TV show. This book, while focusing on the road to love and the ups and downs it comes with, also has mental health awareness.
November 26, 2025
mjäu, väga suur rõhk mental healthil
September 13, 2025
3.75!! It’s not as good as the first one but I still lovedddd it.
September 10, 2025
3.5-4. Such a fun concept I haven’t read before. But the ending felt rushed messy and flat. I kind of get it because it’s a little weird to wrap up the situation. But i had other ideas
August 31, 2025
Grazie a Nikki Callan e Love Notes Pr per aver accettato questo arc!
Allora, non vedevo l'ora di leggere questo libro da Aprile perché amavo già il personaggio di Dominic dal primo libro (Stick With me) e sapevo che lo avrei amato come MMC nel suo libro. Così infatti è stato!
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother's Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
Ho trovato questo libro originale e molto particolare, al contrario degli altri Hockey Romance qui ci troviamo Off-season quindi non ci troviamo tra partite e trasferte ma in un reality show, dove Dominic deve trovare l'amore della sua vita in una delle donne che parteciperanno al programma. Senza sapere che Mia, la sorella di Ryan (migliore amico e compagno di squadra, protagonista del primo libro), per trovare una scappatoia si era iscritta al format senza sapere nemmeno lei che Dominic sarebbe stato il single. Ho dimenticato di aggiungere che entrambi non si sopportano, quindi sarà un'avventura tosta!
Alla fine trovano un accordo, lei farà da Match maker vedendo quale ragazza sia più adatta ai suoi standard e lui la terrà nello show per farle godere la vacanza. Peccato che andrà contro di loro questo accordo, ma no spoiler.
Ho amato questo libro, sono rimasta di nuovo incantata dalla sua scrittura e non riuscivo a staccarmi era fisicamente doloroso farlo giuro. I protagonisti li ho amati entrambi, mi sono rivista tantissimo in Mia e sono riuscita ad empatizzare con lei al 100% infatti pensavo che l'autrice stesse parlando di me. Dominic invece è il mmc da sogno, che vorrei avere accanto quindi grazie per avermi alzato le aspettative! di nuovo
Thanks to Nikki Callan and Love Notes Pr for accepting this arc!
So, I've been looking forward to reading this book since April because I already loved Dominic's character from the first book (Stick With Me) and I knew I'd love him as MMC in his book. And so it was!
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother's Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
I found this book original and very unique. Unlike other Hockey Romances, this one takes place in the off-season, so we're not surrounded by games and away trips, but by a reality show, where Dominic must find the love of his life in one of the women competing. He doesn't know that Mia, Ryan's sister (best friend and teammate, the protagonist of the first book), signed up for the show to find a way out, not even knowing that Dominic would be the single one. I forgot to add that they both can't stand each other, so it's going to be a tough adventure!
In the end, they reach an agreement: she'll act as a matchmaker, seeing which girl best fits his standards, and he'll keep her on the show so she can enjoy her vacation. It's a shame this agreement will go against them, but no spoilers.
I loved this book. I was once again enchanted by its writing and couldn't tear myself away; it was physically painful, I swear. I loved both the main characters. I saw myself so much in Mia and was able to empathize with her 100%, in fact, I thought the author was talking about me. Dominic, on the other hand, is the dream MMC I'd love to have by my side, so thanks for raising my expectations! again
Allora, non vedevo l'ora di leggere questo libro da Aprile perché amavo già il personaggio di Dominic dal primo libro (Stick With me) e sapevo che lo avrei amato come MMC nel suo libro. Così infatti è stato!
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother's Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
Ho trovato questo libro originale e molto particolare, al contrario degli altri Hockey Romance qui ci troviamo Off-season quindi non ci troviamo tra partite e trasferte ma in un reality show, dove Dominic deve trovare l'amore della sua vita in una delle donne che parteciperanno al programma. Senza sapere che Mia, la sorella di Ryan (migliore amico e compagno di squadra, protagonista del primo libro), per trovare una scappatoia si era iscritta al format senza sapere nemmeno lei che Dominic sarebbe stato il single. Ho dimenticato di aggiungere che entrambi non si sopportano, quindi sarà un'avventura tosta!
Alla fine trovano un accordo, lei farà da Match maker vedendo quale ragazza sia più adatta ai suoi standard e lui la terrà nello show per farle godere la vacanza. Peccato che andrà contro di loro questo accordo, ma no spoiler.
Ho amato questo libro, sono rimasta di nuovo incantata dalla sua scrittura e non riuscivo a staccarmi era fisicamente doloroso farlo giuro. I protagonisti li ho amati entrambi, mi sono rivista tantissimo in Mia e sono riuscita ad empatizzare con lei al 100% infatti pensavo che l'autrice stesse parlando di me. Dominic invece è il mmc da sogno, che vorrei avere accanto quindi grazie per avermi alzato le aspettative! di nuovo
Thanks to Nikki Callan and Love Notes Pr for accepting this arc!
So, I've been looking forward to reading this book since April because I already loved Dominic's character from the first book (Stick With Me) and I knew I'd love him as MMC in his book. And so it was!
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother's Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
I found this book original and very unique. Unlike other Hockey Romances, this one takes place in the off-season, so we're not surrounded by games and away trips, but by a reality show, where Dominic must find the love of his life in one of the women competing. He doesn't know that Mia, Ryan's sister (best friend and teammate, the protagonist of the first book), signed up for the show to find a way out, not even knowing that Dominic would be the single one. I forgot to add that they both can't stand each other, so it's going to be a tough adventure!
In the end, they reach an agreement: she'll act as a matchmaker, seeing which girl best fits his standards, and he'll keep her on the show so she can enjoy her vacation. It's a shame this agreement will go against them, but no spoilers.
I loved this book. I was once again enchanted by its writing and couldn't tear myself away; it was physically painful, I swear. I loved both the main characters. I saw myself so much in Mia and was able to empathize with her 100%, in fact, I thought the author was talking about me. Dominic, on the other hand, is the dream MMC I'd love to have by my side, so thanks for raising my expectations! again
September 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️
You’re The One by Nikki Callan was the first book I’ve read from her, and it certainly will not be the last. I fell in love with this book as soon as I read the blurb, and I just knew it was going to be a good story. In my opinion, you don't really need to read the first in this series to know what's happened, as this is the first book I've read from Nikki.
Both characters, Mia and Dominic, were interesting, and they made the story all the more interesting. As soon as I started reading, I knew both of them had a story to tell, and I needed to know what it was going to be. The overall plot and storyline had me on the edge of my seat because I enjoyed the aspect of the whole Bachelor TV show helping Dominic to find love.
The back-and-forth banter between the two main characters was perfect, and you could really tell how much they were really into one another. Despite Mia being a little bit of a tough character, I still enjoyed seeing her grow and really have strong character development. She was an interesting fmc, she had a lot of potential, and by the end of the book, I really was able to understand her and see where she was coming from.
Dominic, in my opinion, was absolute perfection! He was a great and strong MMC, and I loved him so much. Despite Mia trying to push him away and treat him poorly, he still stuck by her side and tried his hardest to understand her and really just be there for her. In all honesty, I was happy to see him wanting more for himself besides hockey after seeing everyone around him in a strong relationship (well, almost everyone…)
I truly believe both Mia and Dominic were a great fit because they were able to break through each other's barriers and really understand and love one another after their relationship had previously been strained, when Mia did not care for him that much.
The banter and overall chemistry throughout was perfection and it really kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering how their relationship was going it play out.
I highly recommend this book to everyone looking for a quick, fun read with plenty of character development and just a perfect storyline to keep you engaged, just waiting to see how everything was going to go down💙
🌶️🌶️
You’re The One by Nikki Callan was the first book I’ve read from her, and it certainly will not be the last. I fell in love with this book as soon as I read the blurb, and I just knew it was going to be a good story. In my opinion, you don't really need to read the first in this series to know what's happened, as this is the first book I've read from Nikki.
Both characters, Mia and Dominic, were interesting, and they made the story all the more interesting. As soon as I started reading, I knew both of them had a story to tell, and I needed to know what it was going to be. The overall plot and storyline had me on the edge of my seat because I enjoyed the aspect of the whole Bachelor TV show helping Dominic to find love.
The back-and-forth banter between the two main characters was perfect, and you could really tell how much they were really into one another. Despite Mia being a little bit of a tough character, I still enjoyed seeing her grow and really have strong character development. She was an interesting fmc, she had a lot of potential, and by the end of the book, I really was able to understand her and see where she was coming from.
Dominic, in my opinion, was absolute perfection! He was a great and strong MMC, and I loved him so much. Despite Mia trying to push him away and treat him poorly, he still stuck by her side and tried his hardest to understand her and really just be there for her. In all honesty, I was happy to see him wanting more for himself besides hockey after seeing everyone around him in a strong relationship (well, almost everyone…)
I truly believe both Mia and Dominic were a great fit because they were able to break through each other's barriers and really understand and love one another after their relationship had previously been strained, when Mia did not care for him that much.
The banter and overall chemistry throughout was perfection and it really kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering how their relationship was going it play out.
I highly recommend this book to everyone looking for a quick, fun read with plenty of character development and just a perfect storyline to keep you engaged, just waiting to see how everything was going to go down💙
September 13, 2025
Title: You’re the One: Saints Hockey #2
Author: Nikki Callan
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Length: 370 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Dual POV, Brother’s Best Friend, Age Gap, Hate-to-Love, Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine, Golden Retriever/Black Cat, Mental Health Representation, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, He Washes
her Hair
Triggers: Anxiety/Depression, Alcoholic Parent (mentioned), 💀of Parent (mentioned), Parental Abandonment
My thoughts:
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! “Stick with Me” (Book 1 of the Saints Hockey Series) was great! A super cute Friend-to-Lovers Romance that really had me giggling and kicking my feet. But “You’re the One”?? I loved every second of reading this book! Not even a full chapter in, and I was already obsessed with Domonic and Mia.
Mia cannot stand Domonic and his goofy Playboy ways while he is completely amused by her grumpy and sassy demeanor. Being Mia’s brother Ryan’s best friend, Domonic is always around and will use any excuse and opportunity to get under Mia’s skin. Mia gives as good as she gets though, and their banter is amazing! When Domonic is chosen to be the bachelor on the popular dating show, You’re the One, he is fully expecting to find the love of his life. What he was not expecting was for his favorite Black Cat to show up to be a contestant. What starts as hate turns into a reluctant friendship and matchmaking help that slowly turns into more.
Mia is a complex and interesting character who I fell in love with immediately because of her sass and wit. But the more I read and the more I got to know her, the more I realized that she puts on this front to keep herself protected. Domonic is very similar. Putting on the mask of a playboy hockey player, when deep down he wants a love that will dwarf everything else. He wants someone who will make him feel alive and challenge him, and he finds that in an unlikely place. Mia and Dom balance each other so perfectly and watching their love unfold was truly a treat!!
I cannot wait to read more from this series and from Nikki Callan! These are always so much fun! Pick this series up… but really tune in to “You’re the One”!! If this was as good as it was, I am so excited to see where the series goes from here
Author: Nikki Callan
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Length: 370 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Dual POV, Brother’s Best Friend, Age Gap, Hate-to-Love, Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine, Golden Retriever/Black Cat, Mental Health Representation, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, He Washes
her Hair
Triggers: Anxiety/Depression, Alcoholic Parent (mentioned), 💀of Parent (mentioned), Parental Abandonment
My thoughts:
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! “Stick with Me” (Book 1 of the Saints Hockey Series) was great! A super cute Friend-to-Lovers Romance that really had me giggling and kicking my feet. But “You’re the One”?? I loved every second of reading this book! Not even a full chapter in, and I was already obsessed with Domonic and Mia.
Mia cannot stand Domonic and his goofy Playboy ways while he is completely amused by her grumpy and sassy demeanor. Being Mia’s brother Ryan’s best friend, Domonic is always around and will use any excuse and opportunity to get under Mia’s skin. Mia gives as good as she gets though, and their banter is amazing! When Domonic is chosen to be the bachelor on the popular dating show, You’re the One, he is fully expecting to find the love of his life. What he was not expecting was for his favorite Black Cat to show up to be a contestant. What starts as hate turns into a reluctant friendship and matchmaking help that slowly turns into more.
Mia is a complex and interesting character who I fell in love with immediately because of her sass and wit. But the more I read and the more I got to know her, the more I realized that she puts on this front to keep herself protected. Domonic is very similar. Putting on the mask of a playboy hockey player, when deep down he wants a love that will dwarf everything else. He wants someone who will make him feel alive and challenge him, and he finds that in an unlikely place. Mia and Dom balance each other so perfectly and watching their love unfold was truly a treat!!
I cannot wait to read more from this series and from Nikki Callan! These are always so much fun! Pick this series up… but really tune in to “You’re the One”!! If this was as good as it was, I am so excited to see where the series goes from here
September 23, 2025
You're The One is the second book in The Saints Hockey romance series. It focuses on Dominic and Mia's story and it was a fun, witty and spicy read.
Mia, FMC, is 22, with a black cat type of personality and struggles with mental health.
Dominic, MMC, has a golden retriever type of personality, 31 and is underestimated by his public persona as a hockey player.
The readers meet Dominic and Mia and learn they cannot stand each other. Mia gets aggravated that he is always smiling, joking around and hanging out at her brother's house. Dominic likes to rile Mia up, which turns into arguing and he finds entertaining. Mia decides she to apply to be on a bachelor reality t.v. show for the free trip to Hawaii. Coincidentally, Dominic caves and answers his email requesting him to be on the new season of the same show, hoping he'll find the love of his life. He's tired of the traditional dating and wants to find his someone to come home to and share his life with, like his best friend(Mia's brother) has.
When Mia's brother asks Dom to watch out for her, Dominic and Mia strike up a deal and she is to helps him figure out which female contestant will be a good match for him and in turn Mia will get a rose weekly so she will be able to stay on the show to enjoy the trip and all the perks. Soon though, Mia gets to know Dominic better through her matchmaking questions and vice versa, then the reality show becomes an obstacle for their feelings towards one another..
The slow burn is just the right amount. Dominic is a very lovable character. Mia's mental health is also addressed and the way Dominic responds is heartwarming. Knowing that someone is willing and wanting to be there by her side during the dark days, because there will be bright and better days as well. Not only because they love and care for someone, but because showing support is important too. This book was very romantic and sweet and I'm looking forward to the next book.
Mia, FMC, is 22, with a black cat type of personality and struggles with mental health.
Dominic, MMC, has a golden retriever type of personality, 31 and is underestimated by his public persona as a hockey player.
The readers meet Dominic and Mia and learn they cannot stand each other. Mia gets aggravated that he is always smiling, joking around and hanging out at her brother's house. Dominic likes to rile Mia up, which turns into arguing and he finds entertaining. Mia decides she to apply to be on a bachelor reality t.v. show for the free trip to Hawaii. Coincidentally, Dominic caves and answers his email requesting him to be on the new season of the same show, hoping he'll find the love of his life. He's tired of the traditional dating and wants to find his someone to come home to and share his life with, like his best friend(Mia's brother) has.
When Mia's brother asks Dom to watch out for her, Dominic and Mia strike up a deal and she is to helps him figure out which female contestant will be a good match for him and in turn Mia will get a rose weekly so she will be able to stay on the show to enjoy the trip and all the perks. Soon though, Mia gets to know Dominic better through her matchmaking questions and vice versa, then the reality show becomes an obstacle for their feelings towards one another..
The slow burn is just the right amount. Dominic is a very lovable character. Mia's mental health is also addressed and the way Dominic responds is heartwarming. Knowing that someone is willing and wanting to be there by her side during the dark days, because there will be bright and better days as well. Not only because they love and care for someone, but because showing support is important too. This book was very romantic and sweet and I'm looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
4.75⭐️
uma coisa a ter em consideração, este é o segundo livro da coleção e eu não li o primeiro. tentei mas não me cativou muito, no entanto ainda há a possibilidade de tentar voltar a ler. pelo que eu entendi, é uma coleção interconnected, logo a escolha da ordem de leitura não afeta (ou pelo menos não afeta muito). com isto, avancei o segundo porque era este que eu realmente queria ler por duas razões: a recomendação no tiktok foi muito convincente e as troupes deste livro (brother’s best friend [🫦], reverse grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to friends to lovers).
agora sobre o livro:
eu adorei o livro com todo o meu coração, este brother’s best friend foi muito bem feito. normalmente, quando há esta troupe (a minha preferida) tenho sempre as minhas expectativas muito altas porque grande parte dos livros que li não fizeram grande justiça à troupe, mas este fez tudo!!
eu adorei todos os personagens! o dominic é tipo de namorado que todas as raparigas sonham, ele é simplesmente perfeito. a mia parece no início chatinha mas gostei muito de como a depressão e a ansiedade dela foram representadas, principalmente quando ela dizia que não conseguia ficar num só lugar. fora que a dinâmica do reality show foi extremamente divertida e engraçada juntamente com o bickering deles que deu ainda mais vontade de continuar a ler o livro.
mas melhor de tudo, o que fez o dominic ser o mais mais para mim foi quando ele não mandou a summer embora até a penúltima qualificação porque sabia o quão importante a amizade da summer era para a mia.
overall, eu amei completamente este livro, ele vai entrar GARANTIDAMENTE para a categoria das releituras e do convencimento para as minhas amigas lerem também! queria muito que houvesse aquela troupe de relação proibida por ela ser a irmã mais nova do bestie dele mas não afetou a história de todo
uma coisa a ter em consideração, este é o segundo livro da coleção e eu não li o primeiro. tentei mas não me cativou muito, no entanto ainda há a possibilidade de tentar voltar a ler. pelo que eu entendi, é uma coleção interconnected, logo a escolha da ordem de leitura não afeta (ou pelo menos não afeta muito). com isto, avancei o segundo porque era este que eu realmente queria ler por duas razões: a recomendação no tiktok foi muito convincente e as troupes deste livro (brother’s best friend [🫦], reverse grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to friends to lovers).
agora sobre o livro:
eu adorei o livro com todo o meu coração, este brother’s best friend foi muito bem feito. normalmente, quando há esta troupe (a minha preferida) tenho sempre as minhas expectativas muito altas porque grande parte dos livros que li não fizeram grande justiça à troupe, mas este fez tudo!!
eu adorei todos os personagens! o dominic é tipo de namorado que todas as raparigas sonham, ele é simplesmente perfeito. a mia parece no início chatinha mas gostei muito de como a depressão e a ansiedade dela foram representadas, principalmente quando ela dizia que não conseguia ficar num só lugar. fora que a dinâmica do reality show foi extremamente divertida e engraçada juntamente com o bickering deles que deu ainda mais vontade de continuar a ler o livro.
mas melhor de tudo, o que fez o dominic ser o mais mais para mim foi quando ele não mandou a summer embora até a penúltima qualificação porque sabia o quão importante a amizade da summer era para a mia.
overall, eu amei completamente este livro, ele vai entrar GARANTIDAMENTE para a categoria das releituras e do convencimento para as minhas amigas lerem também! queria muito que houvesse aquela troupe de relação proibida por ela ser a irmã mais nova do bestie dele mas não afetou a história de todo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
"You're the One" by Nikki Callan is an entertaining sports romance that brings together the grumpy/sunshine and enemies-to-lovers tropes in a fresh reality TV setting. The premise is instantly engaging: Dominic Fox, a charming hockey player, joins a dating show to find love, only to have his teammate's sarcastic little sister, Mia Matthews, step out of the limo. What follows is a clever deal; she'll be his "spy" to help him find the one, and he'll keep her on the show for a free vacation.
While the beginning is a bit of a slow burn, taking some time to find its rhythm and for the characters' chemistry to ignite, the payoff is worth the wait. As Dominic and Mia's walls come down, their relationship blossoms into something deeply sweet and meaningful. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful representation of Mia's mental health and how Dominic's character provided a gentle and supportive comfort through her "dark days." The pacing picks up perfectly in the middle, and the secret moments they share off-camera are filled with a delightful mix of humor, sweetness, and genuine attraction. The ARC didn’t include an epilogue, so I’m hoping the released version has one to give more after the show airs and everyone’s reactions to it all.
Overall, this is a solid read for fans of slow-burn romance with a satisfying character development arc. It might not be for everyone, especially if you're not a fan of reality show-style drama, but the core of the story—the beautifully developed relationship between Dom and Mia—makes it a truly worthwhile and heartfelt read.
Tropes:
- Brother’s best friend
- Age gap
- Hockey romance
- Enemies to lovers
- Grumpy X Sunshine
Thank you to Love Note PR & the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
While the beginning is a bit of a slow burn, taking some time to find its rhythm and for the characters' chemistry to ignite, the payoff is worth the wait. As Dominic and Mia's walls come down, their relationship blossoms into something deeply sweet and meaningful. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful representation of Mia's mental health and how Dominic's character provided a gentle and supportive comfort through her "dark days." The pacing picks up perfectly in the middle, and the secret moments they share off-camera are filled with a delightful mix of humor, sweetness, and genuine attraction. The ARC didn’t include an epilogue, so I’m hoping the released version has one to give more after the show airs and everyone’s reactions to it all.
Overall, this is a solid read for fans of slow-burn romance with a satisfying character development arc. It might not be for everyone, especially if you're not a fan of reality show-style drama, but the core of the story—the beautifully developed relationship between Dom and Mia—makes it a truly worthwhile and heartfelt read.
Tropes:
- Brother’s best friend
- Age gap
- Hockey romance
- Enemies to lovers
- Grumpy X Sunshine
Thank you to Love Note PR & the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2025
ARC Review:
•
You’re the One by Nikki Callan
•
Thank you @authornikkicallan and @lovenotes.pr for the gift of reading this book early! Being a total romance girlie the concept of “The One” makes my heart swoon! Although Mia had a complicated go about, it was hard not relate to some of her struggles. But Dominic and I are like 🤞🏽. We share the same brainwave and heart for love.
•
Review Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother’s Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
To her, he’s the worst. To him, she’s the one.
Dominic Fox is as well known for his playboy reputation as he is for his hockey stats. Ready for love? That’s new. Turns out, finding it is harder than scoring a hat trick. After one too many disastrous first dates, signing up for a reality dating show seems like the next logical step.
Until his teammate’s little sister steps out of the limo. The woman who’s made an art of giving him nothing but sass and side-eye.
Mia Matthews has spent her life running from expectations, anxiety, and anyone who gets too close. A few weeks in the sun sounds like the perfect escape. Leave it to her brother’s best friend, who coasts on charm and a too-bright smile, to ruin it.
Their deal? He’ll keep her on the show long enough to enjoy the free vacation, and she’ll play matchmaker to help him find “the one.”
No feelings. No funny business.
But as Mia sets Dominic up with perfect matches—and okay, a few questionable ones—they start to let their guards down. And she realizes there’s more to him than she ever let herself see.
Too bad falling for him wasn’t part of the deal. Or her plans.
•
You’re the One by Nikki Callan
•
Thank you @authornikkicallan and @lovenotes.pr for the gift of reading this book early! Being a total romance girlie the concept of “The One” makes my heart swoon! Although Mia had a complicated go about, it was hard not relate to some of her struggles. But Dominic and I are like 🤞🏽. We share the same brainwave and heart for love.
•
Review Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
What to expect:
🏒 Hockey Player Romance
😀 Off-Season
🥰 Brother’s Best Friend
❤️🔥 Hate to Love
🕰️ Age Gap
📺 Reality TV
🐈⬛ Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC
🤭 He Falls First
To her, he’s the worst. To him, she’s the one.
Dominic Fox is as well known for his playboy reputation as he is for his hockey stats. Ready for love? That’s new. Turns out, finding it is harder than scoring a hat trick. After one too many disastrous first dates, signing up for a reality dating show seems like the next logical step.
Until his teammate’s little sister steps out of the limo. The woman who’s made an art of giving him nothing but sass and side-eye.
Mia Matthews has spent her life running from expectations, anxiety, and anyone who gets too close. A few weeks in the sun sounds like the perfect escape. Leave it to her brother’s best friend, who coasts on charm and a too-bright smile, to ruin it.
Their deal? He’ll keep her on the show long enough to enjoy the free vacation, and she’ll play matchmaker to help him find “the one.”
No feelings. No funny business.
But as Mia sets Dominic up with perfect matches—and okay, a few questionable ones—they start to let their guards down. And she realizes there’s more to him than she ever let herself see.
Too bad falling for him wasn’t part of the deal. Or her plans.
September 12, 2025
Dom & Mia are honestly so cute I love the enemies to lovers vibe that they give off from the first chapter. They clearly love to mess with each other and that ends up turning into such an honest and vulnerable relationship. The reality tv aspect of this was super fun and I loved watching them navigate a new environment together after the initial shock leaves Dom. Honestly if that was a real season of reality tv I would have been hooked 🥰 Also I really loved how the mental health representation with anxiety and depression was brought into the story it was such an accurate description and done in such a tasteful way. I can’t wait to see more of them in the future books! Thank you Nikki Callan for trusting me with a copy of this ARC 🤍
If you love:
🎀Hockey Player Romance
🎀 Off-Season
🎀 Brother's Best Friend
🎀 Hate to Love
🎀 Age Gap
🎀 Reality TV
🎀 Black Cat Virgin FMC
🎀 Reformed Playboy MMC
🎀 He Falls First
🎀 Mental Health Representation
Genre/type: Reality TV Romance/ Hockey Romance
Pages: 422
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or stand alone: 2nd book in an interconnected standalone (I would read in order)
Tropes or themes: Hockey Player Romance, Off-Season, Brother's Best Friend, Hate to Love, Age Gap, Reality TV, Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC, He Falls First, Mental Health Rep, Anxiety Rep
Check triggers: Explicit language, Open door spice, Depictions of anxiety and depression, Parent struggling with alcoholism (mentioned in backstory, single scene), Death of a parent during childbirth (mentioned in backstory, off-page), Mentions of past parental abandonment, strained family relationships
Lisa.lynn.escobar
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | Fable
If you love:
🎀Hockey Player Romance
🎀 Off-Season
🎀 Brother's Best Friend
🎀 Hate to Love
🎀 Age Gap
🎀 Reality TV
🎀 Black Cat Virgin FMC
🎀 Reformed Playboy MMC
🎀 He Falls First
🎀 Mental Health Representation
Genre/type: Reality TV Romance/ Hockey Romance
Pages: 422
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or stand alone: 2nd book in an interconnected standalone (I would read in order)
Tropes or themes: Hockey Player Romance, Off-Season, Brother's Best Friend, Hate to Love, Age Gap, Reality TV, Black Cat Virgin FMC x Reformed Playboy MMC, He Falls First, Mental Health Rep, Anxiety Rep
Check triggers: Explicit language, Open door spice, Depictions of anxiety and depression, Parent struggling with alcoholism (mentioned in backstory, single scene), Death of a parent during childbirth (mentioned in backstory, off-page), Mentions of past parental abandonment, strained family relationships
Lisa.lynn.escobar
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | Fable
December 5, 2025
One-liner: I wasn’t too sure about this but it actually got better over time!
I was a bit apprehensive during the book’s beginning, as there seemed to be a slightly thin reason for the animosity between the FMC and MMC. I also questioned the FMC’s choice to join the dating show despite not looking for love and wanting a free holiday. It seemed a bit unconvincing.
However, as the book went on, I grew increasingly fond of the FMC who is what most people might consider “difficult”. She has her good and bad days, she’s sometimes a bit bad at communicating how she feels, and tends to run away when things get hard. She’s vulnerable and she doesn’t make this miraculous and unrealistic turnaround like some authors write. She continues to be herself and continues to struggle, but manages to grow in a realistic way. The comparison of her anxiety to a hive was great. As someone with a mental health disorder, this metaphor portrayed the persistence of those negative thoughts and feelings, sometimes barely noticeable and other times all you can think about.
More than that, I liked how supportive and understanding the MMC was. It was an accurate portrayal of what loving someone with mental health challenges looks like. Having to offer them patience and understanding (within reason), allowing them to feel safe enough to open up and be themselves.
Ultimately, they found their way to each other, making compromises for each other. While he is patient with her, she makes her own compromises (“The word feels foreign on my tongue, but I know it means something to him” - after calling him “baby”).
Kinda really sweet by the end.
I was a bit apprehensive during the book’s beginning, as there seemed to be a slightly thin reason for the animosity between the FMC and MMC. I also questioned the FMC’s choice to join the dating show despite not looking for love and wanting a free holiday. It seemed a bit unconvincing.
However, as the book went on, I grew increasingly fond of the FMC who is what most people might consider “difficult”. She has her good and bad days, she’s sometimes a bit bad at communicating how she feels, and tends to run away when things get hard. She’s vulnerable and she doesn’t make this miraculous and unrealistic turnaround like some authors write. She continues to be herself and continues to struggle, but manages to grow in a realistic way. The comparison of her anxiety to a hive was great. As someone with a mental health disorder, this metaphor portrayed the persistence of those negative thoughts and feelings, sometimes barely noticeable and other times all you can think about.
More than that, I liked how supportive and understanding the MMC was. It was an accurate portrayal of what loving someone with mental health challenges looks like. Having to offer them patience and understanding (within reason), allowing them to feel safe enough to open up and be themselves.
Ultimately, they found their way to each other, making compromises for each other. While he is patient with her, she makes her own compromises (“The word feels foreign on my tongue, but I know it means something to him” - after calling him “baby”).
Kinda really sweet by the end.
August 29, 2025
First off, I want to say a huge thank you to @lovenotes.pr and @authornikkicallan for an ARC of this book! 🫶 This was hands-down my favorite read of the month, I devoured it in one sitting because I literally could not put it down, rating it a 4.5/5 stars. I was giggling and kicking my feet over Dominic Fox because the banter between him and FMC Mia was everything I needed and more.
I also loved the setting, since the story takes place on a reality dating show. Dom (our swoony hockey player) is the male lead, and Mia, his teammate’s younger sister, is one of the contestants. At first I was a little nervous about OWD (other woman drama) since technically he’s dating 23 other girls… but nope, not at all! Instead, the dual POV really pulls you into Dom and Mia’s enemies-to-friends-to-lovers journey. Their chemistry is immediate but never rushed, and the constant back-and-forth had me laughing out loud, blushing, and yes, falling for another fictional man.
This is definitely an open-door romance, and I’d personally rate it about 3.5–3.75 chilli peppers. There are around 6–7 steamy scenes, which is a bit more than I usually prefer (I tend to like 3–4), so near the end I did find myself skimming some of them, not because of the writing, but because I was so invested in the plot that I just wanted to see what happened next! That said, the spice never took away from the story, and the balance of tension, banter, and emotional build-up made it all work beautifully.
I also loved the setting, since the story takes place on a reality dating show. Dom (our swoony hockey player) is the male lead, and Mia, his teammate’s younger sister, is one of the contestants. At first I was a little nervous about OWD (other woman drama) since technically he’s dating 23 other girls… but nope, not at all! Instead, the dual POV really pulls you into Dom and Mia’s enemies-to-friends-to-lovers journey. Their chemistry is immediate but never rushed, and the constant back-and-forth had me laughing out loud, blushing, and yes, falling for another fictional man.
This is definitely an open-door romance, and I’d personally rate it about 3.5–3.75 chilli peppers. There are around 6–7 steamy scenes, which is a bit more than I usually prefer (I tend to like 3–4), so near the end I did find myself skimming some of them, not because of the writing, but because I was so invested in the plot that I just wanted to see what happened next! That said, the spice never took away from the story, and the balance of tension, banter, and emotional build-up made it all work beautifully.
September 4, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 4.5⭐️ This was such a fun take on an off season hockey romance! Dominic has just watched his best friend fall in love and settle down and he’s ready for his happily ever after now. He decides his path to finding love is going to be as the main love interest on You’re the One. Mia is just trying to figure out her life. She doesn’t know what she wants to do other than keep moving. So when the chance arises for her to be a contestant in You’re the One, she takes it. As her brother’s best friend, Dominic had always drove Mia a little bit crazy. So when she finds out it’s his season of the show she’s going to be on it’s the perfect opportunity to mess with him. When the show starts and Dominic meets all of his girls he’s shocked to say the least by Mia being there but this could be the perfect opportunity for them both. She gets the vacation she came there for and he gets an inside woman to help be his matchmaker. All is well and good until the lines start to blur and they both find themselves more and more drawn to each other. Could something come of this bond they are forming or are there too many obstacles standing on their way?
This book was different than any book I’ve read recently and I was hooked “watching” the two of them navigate the dating show. Mia has been struggling with so much that she doesn’t let show so when she finally lets Dom in and he takes that and shows her that it’s okay not to have everything figured out…I was melting!! He’s such a strong and steady person in her life through the whole experience and I just loved the way he fought for her when she wanted to give up. I found myself giggling so many times with this one and I just adore books that have such a fun storyline! Would absolutely recommend this one!!
Tropes:
✨Brother’s Best Friend
✨Hate to Love
✨Age Gap
✨He Falls First
✨Reformed Playboy
This book was different than any book I’ve read recently and I was hooked “watching” the two of them navigate the dating show. Mia has been struggling with so much that she doesn’t let show so when she finally lets Dom in and he takes that and shows her that it’s okay not to have everything figured out…I was melting!! He’s such a strong and steady person in her life through the whole experience and I just loved the way he fought for her when she wanted to give up. I found myself giggling so many times with this one and I just adore books that have such a fun storyline! Would absolutely recommend this one!!
Tropes:
✨Brother’s Best Friend
✨Hate to Love
✨Age Gap
✨He Falls First
✨Reformed Playboy
September 5, 2025
Stop and read this because it was absolutely adorable! This is book 2 in this series. If you read book 1, then you know that our guy Dominic was introduced to us then but I had no idea just how amazing he would be! You absolutely don’t need to read the first book to follow this story but they are interconnected and I did love how surprisingly perfect Dominic is!
Dominic has a goal to find “the one” since dating hasn’t been successful for him, he decides to try his hand at a reality dating show. He just wasn’t ready to see that one of the candidates is his best friend’s little sister, Mia. She cannot stand Dominic and the two are constantly arguing. He’s not prepared for everything that happens once the show starts filming.
The first half of this book is a slow burn as these two start to get to know each other begrudgingly and discover that there is more under the surface.
I love how Nikki Callan crafts Mia’s character as she deals with her mental health struggles. I equally love how Dominic embraces Mia’s struggles as well and doesn’t try to heal her but rather to support her as she deals with it.
The second half of this book is so adorable! It’s sweet and my guy Dominic really comes through as an amazing book boyfriend, even with his own traumatic experiences. This book is like wrapping yourself up into a warm cozy blanket. It is super entertaining and I cannot rave enough about how fun of a read this was!
Dominic has a goal to find “the one” since dating hasn’t been successful for him, he decides to try his hand at a reality dating show. He just wasn’t ready to see that one of the candidates is his best friend’s little sister, Mia. She cannot stand Dominic and the two are constantly arguing. He’s not prepared for everything that happens once the show starts filming.
The first half of this book is a slow burn as these two start to get to know each other begrudgingly and discover that there is more under the surface.
I love how Nikki Callan crafts Mia’s character as she deals with her mental health struggles. I equally love how Dominic embraces Mia’s struggles as well and doesn’t try to heal her but rather to support her as she deals with it.
The second half of this book is so adorable! It’s sweet and my guy Dominic really comes through as an amazing book boyfriend, even with his own traumatic experiences. This book is like wrapping yourself up into a warm cozy blanket. It is super entertaining and I cannot rave enough about how fun of a read this was!
September 9, 2025
You’re the One is an ARC I was given that is written by Nikki Callan. It is book two in the Saints Hockey series. The book can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend the series as a whole, because the books are interconnected. It was an easy and fun read, and it was well written.
I honestly truly enjoyed this story. I have not read anything by this author before and I am a fan now! I felt like Dominic and Mia were so relatable as individual characters and as a couple. Dom has some childhood trauma relating to his mother and Mia struggles with debilitating depression and anxiety. The portrayal of depression and anxiety were on the mark. If you have ever experienced depression and anxiety, then you will be able to understand and relate. Through the good and the bad they learn to trust one another. The support and love is unwavering.
The TENSION was killing me the whole time. I know it is to be expected given the storyline of a reality TV show, but I wanted it for Mia and Dom so bad. I am so happy they were able to allow each other into the most intimate part of themselves. I was cheering them on from the sidelines! Also, shout out to Summer for being BFF MVP! I hope we see more of her in the future, and I hope Emma gets her happy ending too.
If you love hockey, tension, banter and bickering, love, and a side of reality TV, then I suggest you read this story. I cannot wait to continue this series and see where the other characters end up.
I honestly truly enjoyed this story. I have not read anything by this author before and I am a fan now! I felt like Dominic and Mia were so relatable as individual characters and as a couple. Dom has some childhood trauma relating to his mother and Mia struggles with debilitating depression and anxiety. The portrayal of depression and anxiety were on the mark. If you have ever experienced depression and anxiety, then you will be able to understand and relate. Through the good and the bad they learn to trust one another. The support and love is unwavering.
The TENSION was killing me the whole time. I know it is to be expected given the storyline of a reality TV show, but I wanted it for Mia and Dom so bad. I am so happy they were able to allow each other into the most intimate part of themselves. I was cheering them on from the sidelines! Also, shout out to Summer for being BFF MVP! I hope we see more of her in the future, and I hope Emma gets her happy ending too.
If you love hockey, tension, banter and bickering, love, and a side of reality TV, then I suggest you read this story. I cannot wait to continue this series and see where the other characters end up.
August 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
You’re the One by Nikki Callan was such a fun and refreshing take on the sports romance genre. The bachelor-style setting immediately pulled me in, as a big reality TV fan, I loved the mix of drama, competition, and romantic tension. It gave the book a unique energy that set it apart from other sports romances I’ve read, while still delivering all the swoon and semi-spice I look for.
What really stood out, though, was how thoughtfully the author handled the FMC’s mental health journey. Seeing her navigate anxiety and depression with honesty and vulnerability added so much depth to the story. It felt real and relatable, and I appreciated that her struggles weren’t minimized but instead became part of a romance where she was loved, cared for, and truly seen!!!
The dynamic between the characters, the reality TV backdrop, and the emotional growth all came together in a way that kept me engaged from start to finish. I found myself rooting not just for the romance, but for the FMC’s personal journey too.
Overall, You’re the One was a heartfelt, entertaining read that balanced drama, fun, and genuine emotional connection. A solid 4 stars from me, and I’m excited to see what Nikki Callan writes next.
Huge thank you to @nikkicallanauthor and @lovenotespr for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 💌.
You’re the One by Nikki Callan was such a fun and refreshing take on the sports romance genre. The bachelor-style setting immediately pulled me in, as a big reality TV fan, I loved the mix of drama, competition, and romantic tension. It gave the book a unique energy that set it apart from other sports romances I’ve read, while still delivering all the swoon and semi-spice I look for.
What really stood out, though, was how thoughtfully the author handled the FMC’s mental health journey. Seeing her navigate anxiety and depression with honesty and vulnerability added so much depth to the story. It felt real and relatable, and I appreciated that her struggles weren’t minimized but instead became part of a romance where she was loved, cared for, and truly seen!!!
The dynamic between the characters, the reality TV backdrop, and the emotional growth all came together in a way that kept me engaged from start to finish. I found myself rooting not just for the romance, but for the FMC’s personal journey too.
Overall, You’re the One was a heartfelt, entertaining read that balanced drama, fun, and genuine emotional connection. A solid 4 stars from me, and I’m excited to see what Nikki Callan writes next.
Huge thank you to @nikkicallanauthor and @lovenotespr for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 💌.
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