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LA Panthers #3
Major Penalty
Hockey Rule #1: Keep your stick on the ice… and out of the coach’s daughter.
On the ice, I’m a weapon.
Hard muscle. Brutal checks. A temper that’s earned me too much time in the box.
And I do it all for the coach who pulled me out of a dark life and put me in the game.
But life hit back harder.
Because the girl I want more than my next breath… is his daughter.
Big heart. Dangerous curves. Too sweet for the things I want to do to her.
She’s the team’s new PTA, here to keep us healthy for playoffs.
And an injured hip lands me flat on her exam table, stripped bare and fighting every instinct to pull her closer.
Her soft touch is more punishing than any hit on the ice—and her father is every reason to stay away.
But daddy’s little girl doesn’t play fair.
She tempts. She tests.
She sees past the bruised knuckles and brooding silence… to the man who’d tear this league apart to have her.
And when I break—it’s raw, possessive, permanent.
But hockey has rules.
Breaking them has consequences.
And I’ll take every penalty… to keep what’s mine.
Major Penalty is a spicy standalone, opposites-attract, off-limits hockey romance. This is book three in the LA Panthers series with a guaranteed HEA! When a brooding hockey bad boy collides with the coach’s daughter, will forbidden love go the distance—or cost them everything?
On the ice, I’m a weapon.
Hard muscle. Brutal checks. A temper that’s earned me too much time in the box.
And I do it all for the coach who pulled me out of a dark life and put me in the game.
But life hit back harder.
Because the girl I want more than my next breath… is his daughter.
Big heart. Dangerous curves. Too sweet for the things I want to do to her.
She’s the team’s new PTA, here to keep us healthy for playoffs.
And an injured hip lands me flat on her exam table, stripped bare and fighting every instinct to pull her closer.
Her soft touch is more punishing than any hit on the ice—and her father is every reason to stay away.
But daddy’s little girl doesn’t play fair.
She tempts. She tests.
She sees past the bruised knuckles and brooding silence… to the man who’d tear this league apart to have her.
And when I break—it’s raw, possessive, permanent.
But hockey has rules.
Breaking them has consequences.
And I’ll take every penalty… to keep what’s mine.
Major Penalty is a spicy standalone, opposites-attract, off-limits hockey romance. This is book three in the LA Panthers series with a guaranteed HEA! When a brooding hockey bad boy collides with the coach’s daughter, will forbidden love go the distance—or cost them everything?
555 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2025
430 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
About the author
Vitina Rose
19 books51 followersA ferocious reader, a story weaver, and a lover of all things steamy and romantic. Her head is always in the clouds dreaming up the Hella Hunky male characters that will keep your heart racing. She writes men with the perfect amount of charm, wit, humor, class, and five o’clock shadow to make your insides quiver. Her heart throbs, heartbreaks, and HEA will always keep you coming back for more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 19, 2025
A hidden gem of a steamy hockey romance. 👏 🔥. So many tropes I typically don’t like and yet I really LOVED these two. All the feels for Ares, his heartbreaking story and the family he finally found at the end. 🥰😭
- tattooed badboy w secret heart of gold ✔️
- virgin college age FMC ✔️
- past trauma (H); foster care/neglect ✔️
- possessive MMC; insta everything ✔️
- forbidden/coach’s daughter ✔️
👫. Irene is a college student (😣) who meets Ares when she’s working over the summer as a physical therapy assistant for the hockey team her dad coaches. Ares is the bad boy fully tatted pro hockey player who keeps himself separate and is lethal on the ice. They are immediately drawn to each other. I love that she’s strong and feels like his equal. She’s youthful but smart and capable.
💕. No third act breakup.
🗣️. Miscommunication: So from the beginning we know that she is the coach’s daughter and he doesn’t. I was worried about how this would unravel but it’s handled well. He puts all his cards on the tables and confronts her; there’s a lot of sex involved lol. But its dealt w honestly and openly.
🫣. No OM/OW. There’s one scene in a club where he’s trying to convince her that he’s no good for her and he lets women kind of drape themselves on him. Nothing happens. (In fact, the way he tells one of them off is, 😘 perfection! Lol) In turn, she flirts w some guy who gets too handsy and Ares intervenes aggressively.
🌶️. This story is hot! 🥵 She’s a virgin “good girl” but that doesn’t stop them. He’s controlling w her but she eats it up. And we see his pov and how much he genuinely cares for her.
👥. Dual POV; HFN. She moves in with him.
The tension in the story comes from the darkness surrounding Ares, his past, his relationship w her dad and the hidden truth that Irene is the coach’s daughter.
While all of this is going on, however, we do see them get to know each other, share their truths, and believe that beyond the sex there is a real connection:
- the scenes at the children’s home where they each separately volunteer and she sees him with the kids, and especially little Mandy.
- the genuine respect he has for her dad who cared for him when no one else did; but how he’ll still burn the world down for her
- he loves how, from the beginning, she’s not afraid of him.
- she shows her genuine care when she notices his hip injury and then 🌶️ when she’s sees him in her office
I love how he shares his past and feelings with her even when he thinks it could make her run away. I love how she reacts to his trust, and then shows her support by fully standing up to her dad on his behalf. And the scene at the end at the hockey game w the kids…. 🥹🥰. Gah!
Could we have used more small moments? Yes. Also, maybe I read too fast, but I was unclear on whether she knew Ares was the same guy that her father took under his wing. When she told Ares that whole story about “the boy” her dad cares for did she know it was him?? I feel like she did, but also, wouldn’t that change his feelings about why she was so able to trust and see beyond his scary exterior. Idk. Just felt like a dangling thread.
ANYHOO, overall a really good spicey read with surprising emotion. You have to ignore a few things (like the cringy college student virgin age gap thing) but if you can do that, you’ll enjoy it. 😊
Favorite parts:
- the day they spent w the foster kids; playing in the park, making the flower crowns
- when they “break in” to his home in Florida
- the drawing that he keeps from Mandy on his fridge and the story behind it
- all the stolen panties lol
- tattooed badboy w secret heart of gold ✔️
- virgin college age FMC ✔️
- past trauma (H); foster care/neglect ✔️
- possessive MMC; insta everything ✔️
- forbidden/coach’s daughter ✔️
👫. Irene is a college student (😣) who meets Ares when she’s working over the summer as a physical therapy assistant for the hockey team her dad coaches. Ares is the bad boy fully tatted pro hockey player who keeps himself separate and is lethal on the ice. They are immediately drawn to each other. I love that she’s strong and feels like his equal. She’s youthful but smart and capable.
💕. No third act breakup.
🗣️. Miscommunication: So from the beginning we know that she is the coach’s daughter and he doesn’t. I was worried about how this would unravel but it’s handled well. He puts all his cards on the tables and confronts her; there’s a lot of sex involved lol. But its dealt w honestly and openly.
🫣. No OM/OW. There’s one scene in a club where he’s trying to convince her that he’s no good for her and he lets women kind of drape themselves on him. Nothing happens. (In fact, the way he tells one of them off is, 😘 perfection! Lol) In turn, she flirts w some guy who gets too handsy and Ares intervenes aggressively.
🌶️. This story is hot! 🥵 She’s a virgin “good girl” but that doesn’t stop them. He’s controlling w her but she eats it up. And we see his pov and how much he genuinely cares for her.
👥. Dual POV; HFN. She moves in with him.
The tension in the story comes from the darkness surrounding Ares, his past, his relationship w her dad and the hidden truth that Irene is the coach’s daughter.
While all of this is going on, however, we do see them get to know each other, share their truths, and believe that beyond the sex there is a real connection:
- the scenes at the children’s home where they each separately volunteer and she sees him with the kids, and especially little Mandy.
- the genuine respect he has for her dad who cared for him when no one else did; but how he’ll still burn the world down for her
- he loves how, from the beginning, she’s not afraid of him.
- she shows her genuine care when she notices his hip injury and then 🌶️ when she’s sees him in her office
I love how he shares his past and feelings with her even when he thinks it could make her run away. I love how she reacts to his trust, and then shows her support by fully standing up to her dad on his behalf. And the scene at the end at the hockey game w the kids…. 🥹🥰. Gah!
Could we have used more small moments? Yes. Also, maybe I read too fast, but I was unclear on whether she knew Ares was the same guy that her father took under his wing. When she told Ares that whole story about “the boy” her dad cares for did she know it was him?? I feel like she did, but also, wouldn’t that change his feelings about why she was so able to trust and see beyond his scary exterior. Idk. Just felt like a dangling thread.
ANYHOO, overall a really good spicey read with surprising emotion. You have to ignore a few things (like the cringy college student virgin age gap thing) but if you can do that, you’ll enjoy it. 😊
Favorite parts:
- the day they spent w the foster kids; playing in the park, making the flower crowns
- when they “break in” to his home in Florida
- the drawing that he keeps from Mandy on his fridge and the story behind it
- all the stolen panties lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 2, 2025Dnf at 64% I just got bored
May 13, 2025
I was not prepared. But I'm so glad I read it.
This book was a gem of a find! I've been reading a lot of hockey romances lately, and this one caught my eye. First, this is the first time I've heard or read a book by this author. Second, I was stunned by the underlying story regarding Ares and what his childhood was like. To say that I was struck speechless is putting it mildly. I found myself angry, saddened, even crying for what he went through. But reading what started off in my opinion as an enemies to lovers romance between Ares and Irene quickly developed into so much more.
This wasn't just a love story between two people. This was also a welcome home for a little boy who never felt like he was good enough. So I say run, don't walk, to read this book. It has some of the most raw, beautiful, sexy, nasty, naughty, funny, tear jerking, and jaw-dropping moments throughout the book. This was the first book by this author. I can't wait to read more from her catalog!
This book was a gem of a find! I've been reading a lot of hockey romances lately, and this one caught my eye. First, this is the first time I've heard or read a book by this author. Second, I was stunned by the underlying story regarding Ares and what his childhood was like. To say that I was struck speechless is putting it mildly. I found myself angry, saddened, even crying for what he went through. But reading what started off in my opinion as an enemies to lovers romance between Ares and Irene quickly developed into so much more.
This wasn't just a love story between two people. This was also a welcome home for a little boy who never felt like he was good enough. So I say run, don't walk, to read this book. It has some of the most raw, beautiful, sexy, nasty, naughty, funny, tear jerking, and jaw-dropping moments throughout the book. This was the first book by this author. I can't wait to read more from her catalog!
May 9, 2025
Ares and Irene . . .
Ares Black is a hard-playing monster on the ice with a temper to match. He has a ton of respect for his coach who has given him this chance to show the world his worth. But when Ares falls for the coach’s daughter Irene, he feels unworthy -- and it’s not a good idea regardless. Irene is an amazing character as well. She is Dr. Mathews’ new physical therapist assistant for the LA Panthers during her summer break and, when Ares gets a hip injury, they get up close and personal… ahem! The treatment becomes more torture than the injury and especially when he knows he cannot do anything about his feelings. But how long will that last before the first rule gets broken?
Ares Black is a hard-playing monster on the ice with a temper to match. He has a ton of respect for his coach who has given him this chance to show the world his worth. But when Ares falls for the coach’s daughter Irene, he feels unworthy -- and it’s not a good idea regardless. Irene is an amazing character as well. She is Dr. Mathews’ new physical therapist assistant for the LA Panthers during her summer break and, when Ares gets a hip injury, they get up close and personal… ahem! The treatment becomes more torture than the injury and especially when he knows he cannot do anything about his feelings. But how long will that last before the first rule gets broken?
May 15, 2025
Irene father was the coach of the team Hockey Panthers, she was accepted to work for the team as a physical therapist assistant , she was going to the PT’s office when she got lost,she heard a noise of music in a room and curious she opened the door it was the gym , on the room there was a guy shirtless, tattooed build like a weapon, he was punching a bag when he sensed her he watched her from the mirror ,with the look he gaved her she was scared.
when she met with the Pt’s and talked things,he took her to the conference room so she could meet with the team, she was a little nervous and shy, they welcomed her and she noticed the guy of the gym leaning against the wall watching her.
He was muscular and screams danger.
The second day at practice she couldn’t stop looking at him, after she was at the corridors chatting with her friend and she didn’t notice that she blocked the door of the locker room ,her friend was sending her photos of him, until she felt someone behind her, when she turned she didn’t noticed that her screen showed photos of him, she wanted the ground swallow her.
Ares was a huge of a guy he was good looking but he also was a guy of a few words .every time he’s at the locker room he heard some of his teammates talking about her and he didn’t like it.
One day after a game he found her waiting for him, she told him if he didn’t let her examine him and see his injured hip, she s going to tell the coach .He didn’t know that she is the daughter.because she wanted to keep it a secret.
After the check up, he had a day off and when he’s free he likes to go pass the time with the orphan kids, because when he was younger he was one of them, from family to family till some day a person took him and loved him.
the coordinator says that another person is here, but he didn’t imagine that it was her.
They took the kids into the park , he was another person with the kids soft and friendly ,his mind couldn’t figure where she knew her.
Woow this is my favourite of the series.
It’s an amazing story, well done author
Highly recommend it 😉
when she met with the Pt’s and talked things,he took her to the conference room so she could meet with the team, she was a little nervous and shy, they welcomed her and she noticed the guy of the gym leaning against the wall watching her.
He was muscular and screams danger.
The second day at practice she couldn’t stop looking at him, after she was at the corridors chatting with her friend and she didn’t notice that she blocked the door of the locker room ,her friend was sending her photos of him, until she felt someone behind her, when she turned she didn’t noticed that her screen showed photos of him, she wanted the ground swallow her.
Ares was a huge of a guy he was good looking but he also was a guy of a few words .every time he’s at the locker room he heard some of his teammates talking about her and he didn’t like it.
One day after a game he found her waiting for him, she told him if he didn’t let her examine him and see his injured hip, she s going to tell the coach .He didn’t know that she is the daughter.because she wanted to keep it a secret.
After the check up, he had a day off and when he’s free he likes to go pass the time with the orphan kids, because when he was younger he was one of them, from family to family till some day a person took him and loved him.
the coordinator says that another person is here, but he didn’t imagine that it was her.
They took the kids into the park , he was another person with the kids soft and friendly ,his mind couldn’t figure where she knew her.
Woow this is my favourite of the series.
It’s an amazing story, well done author
Highly recommend it 😉
May 26, 2025
Thank you to @VitinaRose and BookSprout for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve been waiting forever for Major Penalty to drop, and it absolutely blew me away. Vitina Rose really nailed it with Ares — this guy is equal parts tough and tender, and his backstory just broke my heart.
The story kicks off when Irene, the coach’s daughter, starts working with the Hockey Panthers as a physical therapist assistant. She’s shy and a bit lost, but instantly drawn to this mysterious, shirtless guy working out in the gym—Ares. Tattooed, built like a tank, and with this intense vibe that’s borderline dangerous. I felt the sparks the moment they locked eyes.
Ares is your classic man-of-few-words type, but you quickly realize there’s so much more beneath that tough exterior. The way he quietly watches Irene, gets jealous when teammates gossip about her, and then softens completely around kids at the orphanage? It’s a beautiful contrast. His past as one of those kids just adds so much depth to his character.
And Irene? She’s perfect for him — smart, strong, and not afraid to call him out. Their chemistry had me biting my nails! The tension, the slow burn, the steamy moments — it was all spot on.
Plus, the hockey backdrop added a great energy without taking over the romance. If you’re into sports romances with heart, grit, and real emotional stakes, this one’s a must-read.
Highly recommend diving into this book — and the whole series if you haven’t yet!
4.5 Stars!
I’ve been waiting forever for Major Penalty to drop, and it absolutely blew me away. Vitina Rose really nailed it with Ares — this guy is equal parts tough and tender, and his backstory just broke my heart.
The story kicks off when Irene, the coach’s daughter, starts working with the Hockey Panthers as a physical therapist assistant. She’s shy and a bit lost, but instantly drawn to this mysterious, shirtless guy working out in the gym—Ares. Tattooed, built like a tank, and with this intense vibe that’s borderline dangerous. I felt the sparks the moment they locked eyes.
Ares is your classic man-of-few-words type, but you quickly realize there’s so much more beneath that tough exterior. The way he quietly watches Irene, gets jealous when teammates gossip about her, and then softens completely around kids at the orphanage? It’s a beautiful contrast. His past as one of those kids just adds so much depth to his character.
And Irene? She’s perfect for him — smart, strong, and not afraid to call him out. Their chemistry had me biting my nails! The tension, the slow burn, the steamy moments — it was all spot on.
Plus, the hockey backdrop added a great energy without taking over the romance. If you’re into sports romances with heart, grit, and real emotional stakes, this one’s a must-read.
Highly recommend diving into this book — and the whole series if you haven’t yet!
4.5 Stars!
July 14, 2025
What's with people giving 5 and 4 starts to poorly written books. Major Penalty was nothing but delayed sexy time action of two people being horny for each other. Every time they're in the same vicinity they get tense looks, their bodies get locked (not together but just from seeing each other *rolling my eyes*), losing breath, gasping for air, being shaken from all the hormones going wild, stomach dropping, jaws locking, always someones head slowly turning, gripping objects, uneven heartbeats, breath trembles, giant hands, small hands, dark/soft gaze, sharp exhale/inhale just for the sake of it, her mouth open/his mouth open, etc.
I was not sure if I was reading high school romance or adult one. Legit half of this book is their bodies giving up on them because they're in lust with each other, nothing else of importance happens in majority of this book excepet repetitive nonsense. I get the idea of pinning for one another but it was not executed well. I gave one star only for the last chapter which was okay everything else was a drag.
The whole vibe of 'I want you but should not/I know you from somewhere but cannot remember from where/I'm obsessed and I just met you/' is about nothing but two people wanting to jump each other and author is dragging the outcome to make it more exciting/romantic/passionate which is not. Anyway I got my refund.
I was not sure if I was reading high school romance or adult one. Legit half of this book is their bodies giving up on them because they're in lust with each other, nothing else of importance happens in majority of this book excepet repetitive nonsense. I get the idea of pinning for one another but it was not executed well. I gave one star only for the last chapter which was okay everything else was a drag.
The whole vibe of 'I want you but should not/I know you from somewhere but cannot remember from where/I'm obsessed and I just met you/' is about nothing but two people wanting to jump each other and author is dragging the outcome to make it more exciting/romantic/passionate which is not. Anyway I got my refund.
July 5, 2025
This is the 🥉rd book in the L.A. Panthers series. This book was kind of sad and spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ and sweet.
This story is about a Hockey player 🏒 named Ares Black. Ares grew up in and out of foster homes as a young kid. His Hockey coach went to the foster home where Ares was and visited him. Ares never got adopted by a family. He ends up meeting a woman named Irene.
Irene as it turns out is the coach’s daughter. Being with Irene is definitely forbidden. On the ice Ares is a weapon. He is all hard muscle and brutal checks. He has a temper that has earned him too much time in the box. He does it all for the coach who pulled him out of a dark past. The only problem is that the woman he wants more than his next breath is his coach’s daughter. She’s the team’s new PTA. She has to keep the team healthy for the playoffs. Ares is hurt but he’s trying to play it off like he doesn’t hurt. An injured hip lands him on her exam table. Her soft touch is more punishing than any hit on the ice. Her father is another reason to stay away. Irene doesn’t play fair at all. She tempts him at every turn. Ares decides to break the rules just for her. I liked Ares and Irene together as a couple. This book was emotional and spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
This story is about a Hockey player 🏒 named Ares Black. Ares grew up in and out of foster homes as a young kid. His Hockey coach went to the foster home where Ares was and visited him. Ares never got adopted by a family. He ends up meeting a woman named Irene.
Irene as it turns out is the coach’s daughter. Being with Irene is definitely forbidden. On the ice Ares is a weapon. He is all hard muscle and brutal checks. He has a temper that has earned him too much time in the box. He does it all for the coach who pulled him out of a dark past. The only problem is that the woman he wants more than his next breath is his coach’s daughter. She’s the team’s new PTA. She has to keep the team healthy for the playoffs. Ares is hurt but he’s trying to play it off like he doesn’t hurt. An injured hip lands him on her exam table. Her soft touch is more punishing than any hit on the ice. Her father is another reason to stay away. Irene doesn’t play fair at all. She tempts him at every turn. Ares decides to break the rules just for her. I liked Ares and Irene together as a couple. This book was emotional and spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
July 5, 2025
This is absolutely my favorite book in the series! I’ve been waiting to find out what made Ares tick since book one. Learning his background and experiencing his emotions through his well-written POV revealed what a multi-faceted, sympathetic character he is. He honestly had me giggling a few times in the previous books due to his deadpan delivery and quiet, dominant presence, but this book made my heart break a little for him. Thank goodness the ending put it back together.
I loved how Irene was his perfect match and the driving force in his recovery—both mentally and physically. It was touching how loyal and steadfast she proved herself to be, despite the fact it made her own life difficult at times. She was the salve for his soul, and it was beautiful to see.
Along with the two main characters, it was rewarding that some of the supporting characters showed growth, as well. And if you’re wondering whether or not the steam factor is there, rest assured it is and it’s scorching.
All in all, this was a satisfying, heartfelt book. One of those you can’t help but smile after finishing. A perfect ending to the series!
I loved how Irene was his perfect match and the driving force in his recovery—both mentally and physically. It was touching how loyal and steadfast she proved herself to be, despite the fact it made her own life difficult at times. She was the salve for his soul, and it was beautiful to see.
Along with the two main characters, it was rewarding that some of the supporting characters showed growth, as well. And if you’re wondering whether or not the steam factor is there, rest assured it is and it’s scorching.
All in all, this was a satisfying, heartfelt book. One of those you can’t help but smile after finishing. A perfect ending to the series!
August 3, 2025
So…I’m going between 2 stars for the first half of the book and 4 stars for the ending. (Possible spoilers ahead)
The first half was borrrring. H spent the whole time in his head saying “I’m not good enough” and h spent all the time in her head saying “he’s so hot”
The tension was good. If this was a fantasy book, we the readers would all already KNOW they are fated mates. 🙃
The second half was good. The spice was spicing. Wooo 😓
I loved that there was no 3rd act breakup and both MCs actually discussed the issues. I LOVED it when h stood up to her dad. She told him.
I loved all the kids being at the game. ❤️ so sweet and such a good ending. I thought the epilogue was too short and I fully expected them to foster Mandy, so I was sad that didn’t happen.
The guy H assaulted at the bar for being handsey with h- it would have been nice to see if he won/lost his lawsuit against H.
There’s no OW/OM drama. Just a bit of using OM/OW to make the other party jealous but nothing comes of it.
H is not a playboy and h is a V.
There is an age gap. H is 31(?) and h is a college student- so maybe 21???? It’s never bought up so it’s not an issue in the book.
The first half was borrrring. H spent the whole time in his head saying “I’m not good enough” and h spent all the time in her head saying “he’s so hot”
The tension was good. If this was a fantasy book, we the readers would all already KNOW they are fated mates. 🙃
The second half was good. The spice was spicing. Wooo 😓
I loved that there was no 3rd act breakup and both MCs actually discussed the issues. I LOVED it when h stood up to her dad. She told him.
I loved all the kids being at the game. ❤️ so sweet and such a good ending. I thought the epilogue was too short and I fully expected them to foster Mandy, so I was sad that didn’t happen.
The guy H assaulted at the bar for being handsey with h- it would have been nice to see if he won/lost his lawsuit against H.
There’s no OW/OM drama. Just a bit of using OM/OW to make the other party jealous but nothing comes of it.
H is not a playboy and h is a V.
There is an age gap. H is 31(?) and h is a college student- so maybe 21???? It’s never bought up so it’s not an issue in the book.
August 29, 2025
Irene and Ares’ story. This is my first by this author, and I enjoyed it very much. There was a little area where I kind of went off the rails a bit bored, but the rest of the story was divine. Ares is a hockey player and Irene is a physical therapist who comes to the team for the summer as a part of her school practicum. The catch… the team is coached by her father who has given Ares a chance to grow from abused and neglected child to a star.
Irene only has eyes for Ares the moment she sees all 6 foot 3, dark, tattooed, sinfully masculine male. And Ares, feels the same but he has no idea that Irene is the coaches daughter and he’s gun shy of commitments because of his abandonment issues and horrific childhood.
I won’t say how the story progresses and ends because the reader deserves to experience and feel it as they read, but I will say it was an amazing HEA ending. So beautiful, sweet, and almost made me cry. Kudos to the author…. because I felt it, lived it, experienced it.
Overall enjoyment: 4/5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level: 4/5 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Darkness: ❤️
Angst level: 5/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 5/5 🗺️
Writing: 5/5 🖊️
Ending: HEA
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
Irene only has eyes for Ares the moment she sees all 6 foot 3, dark, tattooed, sinfully masculine male. And Ares, feels the same but he has no idea that Irene is the coaches daughter and he’s gun shy of commitments because of his abandonment issues and horrific childhood.
I won’t say how the story progresses and ends because the reader deserves to experience and feel it as they read, but I will say it was an amazing HEA ending. So beautiful, sweet, and almost made me cry. Kudos to the author…. because I felt it, lived it, experienced it.
Overall enjoyment: 4/5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level: 4/5 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Darkness: ❤️
Angst level: 5/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 5/5 🗺️
Writing: 5/5 🖊️
Ending: HEA
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
June 28, 2025
blue eyed beautiful hearted man trope
Ok I can ACTUALLY totally get behind this book. It’s the 1st in the series I’ve read and while it was quick and simple it was PACKED with emotion especially from the male perspective which I feel like isn’t normally conveyed so genuinely. Ares is a literal gentle giant. Super imposing in stature but as gentle a man a woman can ask for. Filled with trauma he transmuted into positive ACTIONS and the fact he recognized his saviors daughter from one photo one tough night and that memory haunted him that when he came face to face with her he IMMEDIATELY knew he KNEW her from somewhere. I thought that was brilliantly written. It took time for me to warm up to Irene only bc I felt her character was ABIT stagnant and had way less introspection but once she had more read time I loved her. The scenes between 😚🤌🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ SUPER SPICY AND FREQUENT. We love to see heavy spice in a heavily emotional book. It just balances it out perfectly! Great read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ok I can ACTUALLY totally get behind this book. It’s the 1st in the series I’ve read and while it was quick and simple it was PACKED with emotion especially from the male perspective which I feel like isn’t normally conveyed so genuinely. Ares is a literal gentle giant. Super imposing in stature but as gentle a man a woman can ask for. Filled with trauma he transmuted into positive ACTIONS and the fact he recognized his saviors daughter from one photo one tough night and that memory haunted him that when he came face to face with her he IMMEDIATELY knew he KNEW her from somewhere. I thought that was brilliantly written. It took time for me to warm up to Irene only bc I felt her character was ABIT stagnant and had way less introspection but once she had more read time I loved her. The scenes between 😚🤌🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ SUPER SPICY AND FREQUENT. We love to see heavy spice in a heavily emotional book. It just balances it out perfectly! Great read! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 14, 2025
Love that there was no 3rd act break up and that for the most part the MC’s communicated well together. MMC actually has emotional depth and that is wonderful.
My biggest gripe is the lack of research on what a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) does and generally the fitting of this role into the plot. PTA’s don’t do exams and don’t usually go on to become Physical Therapists - school is stupid expensive and it’s rare that it occurs. Also, if she’s a physical therapist that’s getting her doctorate and is interning, she would be labeled a “Physical Therapy Student” and then would be able to work under the main DPT (doctor of physical therapy) and not have to be completely supervised. Plus, no one gets into PT for the money - we don’t make shit and have about as much student debt as med school students.
My biggest gripe is the lack of research on what a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) does and generally the fitting of this role into the plot. PTA’s don’t do exams and don’t usually go on to become Physical Therapists - school is stupid expensive and it’s rare that it occurs. Also, if she’s a physical therapist that’s getting her doctorate and is interning, she would be labeled a “Physical Therapy Student” and then would be able to work under the main DPT (doctor of physical therapy) and not have to be completely supervised. Plus, no one gets into PT for the money - we don’t make shit and have about as much student debt as med school students.
July 1, 2025
All the hearts!
I absolutely loved this book. Literally the only drawback was some errors in words, but that was very few and far between.
This book evoked all the feelings. There were some seriously poignant moments that brought on misty eyes, many more moments of joy, and all around feelings of happiness and hopefulness. You won’t regret reading this book, so if you’re looking at reviews to see what people say about it, do yourself a favor and start reading now.
I absolutely loved this book. Literally the only drawback was some errors in words, but that was very few and far between.
This book evoked all the feelings. There were some seriously poignant moments that brought on misty eyes, many more moments of joy, and all around feelings of happiness and hopefulness. You won’t regret reading this book, so if you’re looking at reviews to see what people say about it, do yourself a favor and start reading now.
May 14, 2025
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I have been waiting for Ares' story. It broke my heart. Vitina did such a good job with this character. Irene is the perfect woman for Ares too. They had such amazing chemistry. I was literally biting my knuckles with the tension and spice. This book was such a good balance of hockey and romance. I highly recommend this book and this series!
May 14, 2025
Áres... zlomilo se mi pro tebe srdce.
-pěstounská péče, strach z opuštění
- dcera trenéra, fyzioterapeutka
Bohužel tam bylo pár příběhových nesrovnalostí, které i mému nenáročnému vkusu knih neunikl :( např. hrdina v noci slyší hrdinku, on i ona ví že má pokoj vedle - obává se že ji slyšel. Další den ho jde ošetřit a ptá se ji jak ví kde má pokoj.
-pěstounská péče, strach z opuštění
- dcera trenéra, fyzioterapeutka
Bohužel tam bylo pár příběhových nesrovnalostí, které i mému nenáročnému vkusu knih neunikl :( např. hrdina v noci slyší hrdinku, on i ona ví že má pokoj vedle - obává se že ji slyšel. Další den ho jde ošetřit a ptá se ji jak ví kde má pokoj.
July 7, 2025
OMG!
I was waiting for Ares' story and this is why.... Damien's story was great, Damien's story was wonderful but Ares' story was amazing! I just loved how he was the first for everything! He lived her first even though Irene said it first! I just lived the whole series! Thank you for these!
I was waiting for Ares' story and this is why.... Damien's story was great, Damien's story was wonderful but Ares' story was amazing! I just loved how he was the first for everything! He lived her first even though Irene said it first! I just lived the whole series! Thank you for these!
July 9, 2025
Excellent
Absolutely excellent book!! I loved the whole series, but this one pulled at my heart strings differently. It's a beautiful story and I highly recommend it. It is the last of the series. I recommend reading all 3. Not neccessary but you understand the characters and are more involved with them if you do.
Absolutely excellent book!! I loved the whole series, but this one pulled at my heart strings differently. It's a beautiful story and I highly recommend it. It is the last of the series. I recommend reading all 3. Not neccessary but you understand the characters and are more involved with them if you do.
July 28, 2025
Love, love, loved it!
I absolutely loved this book! I thought it was going to be the typical story of the star player and the PTA but it really wasn’t. While it had its spicy parts I think the story didn’t need it to be a great book. Ares and Irene’s story has all the feels. Just read it.
I absolutely loved this book! I thought it was going to be the typical story of the star player and the PTA but it really wasn’t. While it had its spicy parts I think the story didn’t need it to be a great book. Ares and Irene’s story has all the feels. Just read it.
December 16, 2025
Not bad
Im a sucker for a sports romance. This was a good read that flowed nice. Just enough realistic drama without going over board.
The writing to me is not my style. I prefer the more modern way of speaking and structure. This author is border line Harlequin mixed with smut.
Im a sucker for a sports romance. This was a good read that flowed nice. Just enough realistic drama without going over board.
The writing to me is not my style. I prefer the more modern way of speaking and structure. This author is border line Harlequin mixed with smut.
May 6, 2025
This was another great read from this author. Loved Ares and Irene. I also enjoyed this deeper look into Ares as we meet him in the two prior books. Such a sweet broken man that Irene helps heal.
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.
May 8, 2025
This book is absolutely amazing and the most perfect romance book to read when you are staying home due to it raining outside. I really enjoyed the way Irene and Ares was written, and they will keep you warm while devouring their romance story. This is a 10-star HOT and SPICY Read.
May 18, 2025
loved Ares
I loved this. He just wants to be loved, and wanted. Growing up the way he did and falling for Irene was such a sweet story of them and I wanted more. Great heat but I truly wanted more of these two. Loved it
I loved this. He just wants to be loved, and wanted. Growing up the way he did and falling for Irene was such a sweet story of them and I wanted more. Great heat but I truly wanted more of these two. Loved it
June 4, 2025
Awesome read
I read all 3 books in order and would highly recommend. I laughed, cried and smiled though out all 3 books. The Feels are all there. Enjoy....I know I did. I will be keeper to Red again.😘☺
I read all 3 books in order and would highly recommend. I laughed, cried and smiled though out all 3 books. The Feels are all there. Enjoy....I know I did. I will be keeper to Red again.😘☺
June 14, 2025
Love love loved this book! BUT
I loved Ares and Irene’s story. However,
there were so many grammatical errors. That was my only problem. Just proofread everything next time. Otherwise, loved everything about this book!
I loved Ares and Irene’s story. However,
there were so many grammatical errors. That was my only problem. Just proofread everything next time. Otherwise, loved everything about this book!
June 27, 2025
My favorite (Lisa Ochoa)
All the 3 books that I have read in this series are great but this one so far is the best. It made me cry for the boy and man Ares. I also cried of happiness. Love your books.
All the 3 books that I have read in this series are great but this one so far is the best. It made me cry for the boy and man Ares. I also cried of happiness. Love your books.
July 6, 2025
Ares and Irene!? What can I say? By far the best book in the series. It had more meat around the bones and wasn't just an Instalust book. Ares is fierce but sweet and was my favorite from the first book. Really enjoyed it. 4,5 stars!
July 26, 2025
Maybe closer toto 2.5 … like there was no relationship besides having an intense feeling when they looked at each other. The story builds better in the second half but thought they need more in the build up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2025
WoW!
I absolutely loved this book. I had been waiting to hear Ares Story and it was SO worth it! To hear his story and feel his pain, then his love for Irene was unforgettable. Easily one my favorite series, and THIS one was my favorite of the three.
I absolutely loved this book. I had been waiting to hear Ares Story and it was SO worth it! To hear his story and feel his pain, then his love for Irene was unforgettable. Easily one my favorite series, and THIS one was my favorite of the three.
May 8, 2025
Amazing, incredible, sweet
Ares you beautiful soul. This book wrecked me in the best way. It's funny, smutty, and gut wrenching. So happy Ares got his HEA.
Ares you beautiful soul. This book wrecked me in the best way. It's funny, smutty, and gut wrenching. So happy Ares got his HEA.
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