"All the reasons to resist him burn into ash as his lips crush mine." 💙
Lauren Blakely truly outdid herself with The Overtime Kiss! As a devoted reader of her work, and with this entire series being a firm favourite, my expectations were high, and she effortlessly surpassed them. Lauren Blakely is, without a doubt, one of my absolute top authors, and her releases are always at the very top of my reading list.
This book dives straight into the story of Tyler, a charismatic ice hockey player who's also a single dad to two utterly charming children, and Sabrina, who finds herself leaving her cheating fiancé at the altar. The serendipitous way their paths cross, leading to Sabrina becoming the nanny for Tyler's kids, sets up such a deliciously angsty, yet ultimately heartwarming, dynamic. What makes their connection truly special is the underlying current of mutual attraction they've secretly harboured for ages. This 'secret crush' trope is handled with such finesse, building an exquisite tension that makes their journey towards romance all the more satisfying.
Tyler, with his dedication to his children and his prowess on the ice, quickly establishes himself as a hero you can't help but adore. His juggling act of fatherhood and professional sports is incredibly endearing, and his kids add such a delightful layer of authenticity and sweetness to the story. Sabrina, in turn, is a beacon of resilience. Watching her navigate the emotional aftermath of her broken engagement and find her footing, all while developing this incredible bond with Tyler and his children, was lovely to read. Her strength and warmth shine through every page.
Lauren Blakely has a knack for weaving together delightful banter, steamy moments, and genuine emotional depth. The Overtime Kiss is no exception, offering a perfect blend of wit and heart. The chemistry between Tyler and Sabrina is undeniable, sparking off the page, and their journey from employer-employee to something far deeper is beautifully explored. Moreover, for those of us who have followed Lauren Blakely's previous works, there's a real treat in seeing familiar faces from earlier books integrated seamlessly into this new narrative, adding a lovely sense of continuity and community.
This novel is an absolute joy to read, a testament to Lauren Blakely's skill in crafting romances that are both incredibly fun and deeply meaningful. If you're seeking a romance that combines a beloved sports hero, an inspiring heroine, adorable children, and that irresistible 'secret crush' element, then The Overtime Kiss should be your next pick. I’m already counting down the days until Lauren Blakely's next release!