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Chicago Players #3
Top Shelf Stud
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26The snail doc wants a baby. I volunteered to do the deed. But it isn’t long before I realize a “donation” will never be enough. I want to be a dad, but most of all, I want her.
Franky
When confronted with the cold, hard facts of her diminishing chances to be a mom, what’s a woman of science to do?
Make a spreadsheet of eligible donors, of course.
Finding a man for life is not in the cards, but one for this singular purpose? I can do that. As the daughter of a Chicago Rebels legend and an expert in the field of gastropods—more commonly known as snails and slugs—I have plenty of choices in the worlds of both hockey and academia. The selection process should be easy, especially as my methodology has already eliminated several options, including Jason Isner, childhood nemesis and recently acquired defenseman for the Rebels. I’ve always considered him arrogant, cruel, and to be honest, not the brightest bulb.
I’m rarely wrong. But I might have been mistaken about Jason . . .
Jason
I surprised even myself when I offered to be Franky St. James’s baby daddy, but fatherhood has been a dream of mine forever. If I can achieve my goal without the hassle of a relationship, even better. I won’t be one of those “pump and dump” donors, though. I want the whole package: nighttime feedings, shopping for cute onesies, teaching my kid to skate. I’m in it for life, and as Franky and I travel this road together, I start to imagine what that life might look like. Not just a baby, but a family of my own.
The thing is, the doc has all sorts of hypotheses about jocks and relationships, and it’s going to take a lot of persuasion—sexy and otherwise—to prove her wrong. She might think the mating rituals of her beloved snails are the only “coupling” worth studying, but I’m determined to show her that when it comes to seeking a mate, this player is as driven as any species in the animal kingdom.
Because making a baby is just the beginning . . .
* She needs a sperm donor * Hockey romance * STEM heroine who studies snails * Childhood nemesis * Enemies to lovers * She watches him make his "donation" * Her brain turns him on * Spicy
Franky
When confronted with the cold, hard facts of her diminishing chances to be a mom, what’s a woman of science to do?
Make a spreadsheet of eligible donors, of course.
Finding a man for life is not in the cards, but one for this singular purpose? I can do that. As the daughter of a Chicago Rebels legend and an expert in the field of gastropods—more commonly known as snails and slugs—I have plenty of choices in the worlds of both hockey and academia. The selection process should be easy, especially as my methodology has already eliminated several options, including Jason Isner, childhood nemesis and recently acquired defenseman for the Rebels. I’ve always considered him arrogant, cruel, and to be honest, not the brightest bulb.
I’m rarely wrong. But I might have been mistaken about Jason . . .
Jason
I surprised even myself when I offered to be Franky St. James’s baby daddy, but fatherhood has been a dream of mine forever. If I can achieve my goal without the hassle of a relationship, even better. I won’t be one of those “pump and dump” donors, though. I want the whole package: nighttime feedings, shopping for cute onesies, teaching my kid to skate. I’m in it for life, and as Franky and I travel this road together, I start to imagine what that life might look like. Not just a baby, but a family of my own.
The thing is, the doc has all sorts of hypotheses about jocks and relationships, and it’s going to take a lot of persuasion—sexy and otherwise—to prove her wrong. She might think the mating rituals of her beloved snails are the only “coupling” worth studying, but I’m determined to show her that when it comes to seeking a mate, this player is as driven as any species in the animal kingdom.
Because making a baby is just the beginning . . .
* She needs a sperm donor * Hockey romance * STEM heroine who studies snails * Childhood nemesis * Enemies to lovers * She watches him make his "donation" * Her brain turns him on * Spicy
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
26 people are currently reading
5387 people want to read
About the author
Kate Meader
55 books3,411 followersKate writes sexy contemporary, sports, and LGBTQ+ romance with strong guys and amazing women and men who match their heroes quip for quip. She's known for blending heat, humor, and heart into irresistibly romantic stories.
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Opposites do attract, age is just a number, communication is vital and 2 is always better than 1 💜
This was such a fun read
🤓 She's a brainy geek, professor of snails who wants a baby and needs a sperm donor
🏒 He's the super hot jock, D man hockey player with strong 'swimmers'
But they have disliked each other for over 20 years
The issues they encounter are real, emotional, spicy and very funny
Do yourself a favor and read this book and come join the Chicago Rebels family 💜 you won't be disappointed
Thank you Kate for the ARC opportunity 💕
This was such a fun read
🤓 She's a brainy geek, professor of snails who wants a baby and needs a sperm donor
🏒 He's the super hot jock, D man hockey player with strong 'swimmers'
But they have disliked each other for over 20 years
The issues they encounter are real, emotional, spicy and very funny
Do yourself a favor and read this book and come join the Chicago Rebels family 💜 you won't be disappointed
Thank you Kate for the ARC opportunity 💕
February 14, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book. I sat down in the early morning thinking of getting a few chapters in before starting my day and did not stop reading until the end. The writing is so addictive, the plot keeps you hooked and the characters are so much fun. I loved the nerdiness of Franky and how badly Jason wanted her. Already so excited for the next book in this series, because I need more of this!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Top Shelf Stud
Kate Meader
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 of 5)
Spice: 🌶️
I love Kate Meader! This is the third series of hers I’ve read, and Top Shelf Stud did not disappoint. It features three of my favorite tropes: a smart, determined woman in STEM, a swoony reverse-age-gap (just 2 years!), and a golden retriever hero <3. Franky and Jason have a classic love-hate relationship that makes it impossible not to root for them from the very first page.
Top Shelf Stud delivers everything you expect from a Kate Meader hockey romance: sizzling chemistry, sharp banter, and plenty of heart. Set in the Chicago Players world, the story follows Franky (Bren St. James’ daughter) and Jason (Theo’s brother) as they navigate the challenges of finding love while craving family and acceptance in a world where they feel it’s nearly impossible.
The story doesn’t shy away from real-life complications, co-parenting struggles, family drama, and past trauma, but through it all, Franky and Jason’s connection burns bright. Jason never gives up on Franky, patiently seeing past her tough exterior to the woman he knows she is, while their sizzling chemistry keeps you turning pages long into the night.
What I loved:
+ As I mentioned before, the reverse-age-gap trope is one of my favorites, and it was refreshing to read a story about characters finding love later in life. So many books focus on younger characters, but the age of Franky and Jason really made the story hit on a personal level for me (I am 33), and I felt an immediate connection to their journey.
+ I also loved revisiting the Chicago Players universe and seeing familiar dynamics play out alongside fresh romantic tension. Meader does an excellent job of creating a team atmosphere that feels both supportive and delightfully chaotic. On top of that, we get glimpses of future characters in the series. I can’t wait for Connor’s book! (not to give spoilers, but it looks like they’re keeping him in the Rebel family 👀.)
What Could Have Been Better:
-Franky and Jason’s love and hate dynamic was fun, but at times, I felt there was too much arguing and not enough focus on their love. I wish Franky had resolved her issues a bit sooner (almost 95% of the book had passed before things fully clicked). At times, her insecurities got the better of her, and I wished Meader had stayed true to the strong, confident STEM character Franky was meant to be, instead of making her overly whiny and insecure in certain scenes.
Overall, this was an engaging read and a refreshing twist on the typical hockey romance. If you’re a fan of strong, confident women who know what they want and don’t compromise, Top Shelf Stud is absolutely worth picking up to read.
Kate Meader
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 of 5)
Spice: 🌶️
I love Kate Meader! This is the third series of hers I’ve read, and Top Shelf Stud did not disappoint. It features three of my favorite tropes: a smart, determined woman in STEM, a swoony reverse-age-gap (just 2 years!), and a golden retriever hero <3. Franky and Jason have a classic love-hate relationship that makes it impossible not to root for them from the very first page.
Top Shelf Stud delivers everything you expect from a Kate Meader hockey romance: sizzling chemistry, sharp banter, and plenty of heart. Set in the Chicago Players world, the story follows Franky (Bren St. James’ daughter) and Jason (Theo’s brother) as they navigate the challenges of finding love while craving family and acceptance in a world where they feel it’s nearly impossible.
The story doesn’t shy away from real-life complications, co-parenting struggles, family drama, and past trauma, but through it all, Franky and Jason’s connection burns bright. Jason never gives up on Franky, patiently seeing past her tough exterior to the woman he knows she is, while their sizzling chemistry keeps you turning pages long into the night.
What I loved:
+ As I mentioned before, the reverse-age-gap trope is one of my favorites, and it was refreshing to read a story about characters finding love later in life. So many books focus on younger characters, but the age of Franky and Jason really made the story hit on a personal level for me (I am 33), and I felt an immediate connection to their journey.
+ I also loved revisiting the Chicago Players universe and seeing familiar dynamics play out alongside fresh romantic tension. Meader does an excellent job of creating a team atmosphere that feels both supportive and delightfully chaotic. On top of that, we get glimpses of future characters in the series. I can’t wait for Connor’s book! (not to give spoilers, but it looks like they’re keeping him in the Rebel family 👀.)
What Could Have Been Better:
-Franky and Jason’s love and hate dynamic was fun, but at times, I felt there was too much arguing and not enough focus on their love. I wish Franky had resolved her issues a bit sooner (almost 95% of the book had passed before things fully clicked). At times, her insecurities got the better of her, and I wished Meader had stayed true to the strong, confident STEM character Franky was meant to be, instead of making her overly whiny and insecure in certain scenes.
Overall, this was an engaging read and a refreshing twist on the typical hockey romance. If you’re a fan of strong, confident women who know what they want and don’t compromise, Top Shelf Stud is absolutely worth picking up to read.
Review of advance copy
First off, I love Jason Isner. With all my heart. What a good boy. Was he an obnoxious 13 year old? Sure, but who wasn't at 13. Did he deserve the ire of a 15 year old that lasted into adulthood? Absolutely not. She was the older party, yet she allowed his taunting words, which in my opinion weren't that harsh, hurt her feelings. I suppose he hit on a sore spot and it was awful timing, but still. He didn't deserve 23 years of hate for a nickname which really was a descriptor.
Now that my rant about that is over, let's break it down. While not stated, our FMC seems very single-minded about gastropods - to the point that she seemed a bit on the spectrum. Which more power to her. She was an icon in the world of snails and bug scientists, which I am amazed that Kate went into so much depth on. I feel like I learned a good bit about our slimy little friends through this cute little novel. I'm not mad about it. What I was mad about, multiple times, was the almost careless way she treated Jason's feelings throughout the ENTIRETY of the book (all well much of the time knowing what she was saying would hurt him). That being said, this book ended up so nicely and was tied up nicely with a bow.
My hackles were raised so often because she refused to consider him when thinking about the future of the child they were having together. She kept using the contract as a "well you signed off on it", when clearly they were more than just partners in this contractual endeavor. It was hard to see her break his heart over and over again. Again, this is coming from a person who believes cis white men with money should be broken regularly, gotta keep them on their toes. But I found myself feeling bad for him. The absolute horror.
Did I like this book? Yes. I really enjoyed the story, the snail talk, and even the love story. I thought these opposites were perfect for each other. I hated how she thought of herself though. She was so demeaning to herself throughout the book - because people in her life had taught her that was normal. I hated that. I wish people weren't shitty and treated each other abhorrently - but that's not the world we live in. I think this was a great addition to the Chicago Players world. We spent time with our old favorites and met new ones. I can't wait for Secret Husband. The spoilers for that seem juicy. Definitely give this one a read. I don't' think you'll regret it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 (Jason's dirty talk was so good)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Now that my rant about that is over, let's break it down. While not stated, our FMC seems very single-minded about gastropods - to the point that she seemed a bit on the spectrum. Which more power to her. She was an icon in the world of snails and bug scientists, which I am amazed that Kate went into so much depth on. I feel like I learned a good bit about our slimy little friends through this cute little novel. I'm not mad about it. What I was mad about, multiple times, was the almost careless way she treated Jason's feelings throughout the ENTIRETY of the book (all well much of the time knowing what she was saying would hurt him). That being said, this book ended up so nicely and was tied up nicely with a bow.
My hackles were raised so often because she refused to consider him when thinking about the future of the child they were having together. She kept using the contract as a "well you signed off on it", when clearly they were more than just partners in this contractual endeavor. It was hard to see her break his heart over and over again. Again, this is coming from a person who believes cis white men with money should be broken regularly, gotta keep them on their toes. But I found myself feeling bad for him. The absolute horror.
Did I like this book? Yes. I really enjoyed the story, the snail talk, and even the love story. I thought these opposites were perfect for each other. I hated how she thought of herself though. She was so demeaning to herself throughout the book - because people in her life had taught her that was normal. I hated that. I wish people weren't shitty and treated each other abhorrently - but that's not the world we live in. I think this was a great addition to the Chicago Players world. We spent time with our old favorites and met new ones. I can't wait for Secret Husband. The spoilers for that seem juicy. Definitely give this one a read. I don't' think you'll regret it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 (Jason's dirty talk was so good)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey romance
🧪 STEM heroine (snail scientist!)
👶 Baby pact / sperm donor
🔥 Enemies to lovers
💗 Childhood nemesis
🌶️ Spicy + tender
👨👧 Found family vibes
This was such a fun, spicy, and surprisingly tender hockey romance with a completely unique premise. A STEM heroine who studies snails and creates a spreadsheet to choose her baby’s father? I was instantly in. Add in a childhood nemesis turned volunteer baby daddy and the story had me hooked from the start.
Franky and Jason have known each other forever, but their history is messy and filled with misunderstandings and lingering insecurities. Their dynamic begins with sharp banter and emotional baggage, but as their unconventional agreement unfolds, so does a much deeper connection. Watching them move from reluctant partners to something more meaningful was honestly the heart of this book.
Jason completely won me over. Beneath the confident hockey player exterior is a man who genuinely wants fatherhood, stability, and family. His patience with Franky and the way he shows up again and again made him incredibly easy to love. Franky took me longer to warm up to. Her self-esteem struggles and tendency to hold tightly to past hurts sometimes made her feel emotionally guarded to the point of frustration, but her growth throughout the story felt real and earned.
The chemistry between them is very spicy but also surprisingly sweet. I loved that the story balances heat with real conversations about fertility, single parenthood, vulnerability, and what building a family can look like outside traditional expectations. The timeline allows their relationship to develop naturally, and seeing them slowly let go of preconceived ideas about each other was one of my favorite aspects.
If I had one small critique, I almost wish the story had pushed even deeper into the emotional challenges and stakes of their situation. There were moments where the conflict felt a bit softened when it could have been explored more fully. Still, the overall journey was joyful, heartfelt, and incredibly satisfying.
Spicy, heartfelt, and refreshingly original, this is a hockey romance that blends humor, heat, and emotional growth beautifully. Franky and Jason’s journey from snarky childhood nemeses to partners building something real made this such an enjoyable read.
🏒 Hockey romance
🧪 STEM heroine (snail scientist!)
👶 Baby pact / sperm donor
🔥 Enemies to lovers
💗 Childhood nemesis
🌶️ Spicy + tender
👨👧 Found family vibes
This was such a fun, spicy, and surprisingly tender hockey romance with a completely unique premise. A STEM heroine who studies snails and creates a spreadsheet to choose her baby’s father? I was instantly in. Add in a childhood nemesis turned volunteer baby daddy and the story had me hooked from the start.
Franky and Jason have known each other forever, but their history is messy and filled with misunderstandings and lingering insecurities. Their dynamic begins with sharp banter and emotional baggage, but as their unconventional agreement unfolds, so does a much deeper connection. Watching them move from reluctant partners to something more meaningful was honestly the heart of this book.
Jason completely won me over. Beneath the confident hockey player exterior is a man who genuinely wants fatherhood, stability, and family. His patience with Franky and the way he shows up again and again made him incredibly easy to love. Franky took me longer to warm up to. Her self-esteem struggles and tendency to hold tightly to past hurts sometimes made her feel emotionally guarded to the point of frustration, but her growth throughout the story felt real and earned.
The chemistry between them is very spicy but also surprisingly sweet. I loved that the story balances heat with real conversations about fertility, single parenthood, vulnerability, and what building a family can look like outside traditional expectations. The timeline allows their relationship to develop naturally, and seeing them slowly let go of preconceived ideas about each other was one of my favorite aspects.
If I had one small critique, I almost wish the story had pushed even deeper into the emotional challenges and stakes of their situation. There were moments where the conflict felt a bit softened when it could have been explored more fully. Still, the overall journey was joyful, heartfelt, and incredibly satisfying.
Spicy, heartfelt, and refreshingly original, this is a hockey romance that blends humor, heat, and emotional growth beautifully. Franky and Jason’s journey from snarky childhood nemeses to partners building something real made this such an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy
I had the absolute best time with Top Shelf Stud by Kate Meader. This book is chaotic in the most delightful way. Hockey. Science. Sperm donor spreadsheets. Snails. Yes, snails. And somehow it all works so perfectly I am still grinning.
Franky St. James is my new favorite STEM queen. A gastropod expert with a ticking biological clock and zero patience for nonsense, she approaches baby making the way any responsible scientist would. With data. Charts. Elimination criteria. She does not need a husband. She needs viable genetic material and a solid plan. Logical. Efficient. Completely unprepared for Jason Isner.
Jason. The childhood nemesis. The arrogant defenseman. The guy she has already mentally disqualified. Except he goes and volunteers to be her donor and suddenly the spreadsheet combusts.
What I loved most is that Jason is not just offering a sample and a handshake. He wants bedtime stories. He wants to assemble cribs. He wants to teach their future kid to skate. He wants the whole messy, beautiful package. Watching this big, confident hockey player admit he has always dreamed of fatherhood melted me. He is not afraid of commitment. He is afraid of not being chosen.
The enemies to lovers tension is delicious. They bicker. They challenge each other. She thinks he is all brawn and no brain. He is determined to prove her wrong, and the fact that her brain turns him on? Iconic. The banter snaps. The chemistry sizzles. And yes, the donation scenes are spicy in a way that had me fanning myself while laughing at the absurd brilliance of it all.
There is something so satisfying about watching Franky slowly realize that maybe love does not need to be eliminated from the data set. Maybe this jock is not just a top shelf athlete but a top shelf partner. And Jason chasing her with both heart and heat? Perfection.
This book is smart, sexy, funny, and surprisingly tender. It celebrates science and hockey and the beautiful chaos of two people who think they have a plan only to fall headfirst into something better.
Franky St. James is my new favorite STEM queen. A gastropod expert with a ticking biological clock and zero patience for nonsense, she approaches baby making the way any responsible scientist would. With data. Charts. Elimination criteria. She does not need a husband. She needs viable genetic material and a solid plan. Logical. Efficient. Completely unprepared for Jason Isner.
Jason. The childhood nemesis. The arrogant defenseman. The guy she has already mentally disqualified. Except he goes and volunteers to be her donor and suddenly the spreadsheet combusts.
What I loved most is that Jason is not just offering a sample and a handshake. He wants bedtime stories. He wants to assemble cribs. He wants to teach their future kid to skate. He wants the whole messy, beautiful package. Watching this big, confident hockey player admit he has always dreamed of fatherhood melted me. He is not afraid of commitment. He is afraid of not being chosen.
The enemies to lovers tension is delicious. They bicker. They challenge each other. She thinks he is all brawn and no brain. He is determined to prove her wrong, and the fact that her brain turns him on? Iconic. The banter snaps. The chemistry sizzles. And yes, the donation scenes are spicy in a way that had me fanning myself while laughing at the absurd brilliance of it all.
There is something so satisfying about watching Franky slowly realize that maybe love does not need to be eliminated from the data set. Maybe this jock is not just a top shelf athlete but a top shelf partner. And Jason chasing her with both heart and heat? Perfection.
This book is smart, sexy, funny, and surprisingly tender. It celebrates science and hockey and the beautiful chaos of two people who think they have a plan only to fall headfirst into something better.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Franky and Jason - these two are both second generation kids from the Chicago Rebels series. Franky is a daughter of Bren (from Hooked on You) and Jason is a half-brother of the amazing Theo Hatcher (Instacrush) They have swum in the same pond, so to speak, all their lives, but never got on. Franky took to heart some of Jason’s stupid comments when they were young teens and she’s never forgotten that he made her feel awful about herself. Now in their mid-thirties, they are still snarky and mean to each other. This all changes when Franky decides to start a family using donor insemination, and Jason volunteers himself to be the donor.
Once Franky agrees, they have lots of to-ing and fro-ing, signing contracts and negotiating how to do the deed. The book takes place over ten months so there is plenty of time to create a baby, but more importantly, there is time for these two to get know each other, work through their preconceived ideas and prejudices and think about what their future could be like co-parenting. Franky is quirky, and self-conscious and struggles with her self-esteem, to the point that she doesn’t believe that a good looking jock like Jason would want to be with her long-term. She holds her beliefs so tightly that she’s oblivious to him standing RIGHT THERE showing his interest. This is steamy and surprisingly tender, and I liked the conversation around single parenting and a woman’s declining fertility. If anything, Kate Meader could have gone harder on the challenges for both of them but overall this is a joyful and satisfying romance.
Thank you Kate Meader for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Once Franky agrees, they have lots of to-ing and fro-ing, signing contracts and negotiating how to do the deed. The book takes place over ten months so there is plenty of time to create a baby, but more importantly, there is time for these two to get know each other, work through their preconceived ideas and prejudices and think about what their future could be like co-parenting. Franky is quirky, and self-conscious and struggles with her self-esteem, to the point that she doesn’t believe that a good looking jock like Jason would want to be with her long-term. She holds her beliefs so tightly that she’s oblivious to him standing RIGHT THERE showing his interest. This is steamy and surprisingly tender, and I liked the conversation around single parenting and a woman’s declining fertility. If anything, Kate Meader could have gone harder on the challenges for both of them but overall this is a joyful and satisfying romance.
Thank you Kate Meader for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lately, I have been fully immersed in my sports romance era, and hockey romances in particular continue to be my weakness. There is just something about the mix of intensity, vulnerability, and emotional stakes that always pulls me in. After finishing “Sweet Thing” and “Rebel Bride,” I was so eager to see what would come next. From the moment I started this book, I had that same immediate feeling that I was in for another story I would not want to put down.
This one hooked me right from the beginning. I really loved that it is told in first person with alternating perspectives, which made it easy to connect with both main characters and understand their motivations. I am always a fan of enemies to lovers, and the added stakes here made the tension and chemistry even more compelling. Watching their dynamic evolve kept me fully invested and turning pages.
Without giving too much away, I really appreciated one emotional thread that ran throughout the story. Both characters struggled with feeling like they were not quite “enough,” and that added a layer of vulnerability that made their connection feel even more meaningful. It was a small detail that made a big impact and gave the romance extra depth.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It left me excited to dive deeper into this world, and it definitely made me want to go back and read “Hooked On You” to see how Franky’s dad and stepmom first got together.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
This one hooked me right from the beginning. I really loved that it is told in first person with alternating perspectives, which made it easy to connect with both main characters and understand their motivations. I am always a fan of enemies to lovers, and the added stakes here made the tension and chemistry even more compelling. Watching their dynamic evolve kept me fully invested and turning pages.
Without giving too much away, I really appreciated one emotional thread that ran throughout the story. Both characters struggled with feeling like they were not quite “enough,” and that added a layer of vulnerability that made their connection feel even more meaningful. It was a small detail that made a big impact and gave the romance extra depth.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It left me excited to dive deeper into this world, and it definitely made me want to go back and read “Hooked On You” to see how Franky’s dad and stepmom first got together.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was so excited to read this book because I adore a strong female character in STEM and main characters who are more mature. I related completely with the FMC, Franky St. James, a super intelligent Malacologist with a PhD who studies snails. Franky is thirty-eight and wants a child but feels that she has to go the artificial insemination route rather than wait for a relationship that is not materializing anytime soon. The MMC is Jason Isner, a hockey player with the Chicago Rebels. He is thirty-six and wants kids so much that he bought a house with a swing set in the back yard. Jason hasn’t had good luck with relationships either and seizes the opportunity to provide his sperm to help make Franky’s pregnancy dreams come true as long as he gets to co-parent with her.
First, Franky and Jason have to get past the hurt from a conversation they had years ago as teenagers where he called her “slug girl” and she called him a “dumb jock.” As the story unfolds, we see how these two opposites, the “jock” and the “nerd” are actually perfect for each other. The issue is, when will they realize it? Both Franky and Jason have attachment issues from their pasts – Franky with her Mom and Jason with his Dad. These issues are incredibly difficult for them to overcome and provide a lot of depth to this story.
I love all the characters in this book! I have read other books in the Chicago Players Series, so it’s fun to see characters from previous books make appearances. However, this book can also be read as a standalone.
First, Franky and Jason have to get past the hurt from a conversation they had years ago as teenagers where he called her “slug girl” and she called him a “dumb jock.” As the story unfolds, we see how these two opposites, the “jock” and the “nerd” are actually perfect for each other. The issue is, when will they realize it? Both Franky and Jason have attachment issues from their pasts – Franky with her Mom and Jason with his Dad. These issues are incredibly difficult for them to overcome and provide a lot of depth to this story.
I love all the characters in this book! I have read other books in the Chicago Players Series, so it’s fun to see characters from previous books make appearances. However, this book can also be read as a standalone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I feel like I've been looking forward to this book forever! (OK, OK, it's only been since the summer. But the need to read this one was strong!)
Franky and Jason's story was a lot of fun...I mean, what's not to love with a snail scientist who's determined to have a baby on her own terms and the hot hockey player (who she's always had a fascination/hate relationship with) who's determined to help her? TBH, I did get a bit frustrated with how gosh darn long it took them to get over their hang ups and issues--especially Franky--and admit what they had was the real deal, but the journey to get there was fun and the ending was everything I wanted it to be, so I'm in a forgiving mood. ;)
Absolutely LOVED what the baby's name ends up being, especially given what I watched just a few days after finishing #olympicshockey #goldmedalgame
For fans of Ms Meader's hockey romances, you'll see *so many* characters from past books absolutely everywhere here--somehow it felt like even more than in the first two series books? But maybe that's just me--which was just delightful. Newbies might need to start a list (or maybe a flow chart? Series of family trees?) to try and keep track--it is a lot. Or better yet, just start at the beginning and work your way up to this latest series and this book. You can thank me later :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Franky and Jason's story was a lot of fun...I mean, what's not to love with a snail scientist who's determined to have a baby on her own terms and the hot hockey player (who she's always had a fascination/hate relationship with) who's determined to help her? TBH, I did get a bit frustrated with how gosh darn long it took them to get over their hang ups and issues--especially Franky--and admit what they had was the real deal, but the journey to get there was fun and the ending was everything I wanted it to be, so I'm in a forgiving mood. ;)
Absolutely LOVED what the baby's name ends up being, especially given what I watched just a few days after finishing #olympicshockey #goldmedalgame
For fans of Ms Meader's hockey romances, you'll see *so many* characters from past books absolutely everywhere here--somehow it felt like even more than in the first two series books? But maybe that's just me--which was just delightful. Newbies might need to start a list (or maybe a flow chart? Series of family trees?) to try and keep track--it is a lot. Or better yet, just start at the beginning and work your way up to this latest series and this book. You can thank me later :)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Review of advance copy
4 Stars … enemies-to-lovers!
I love this author’s style of writing. Jason and Franky had me laughing-out-loud! They were so opposite but perfect for each other at the same time. I loved the banter between the characters, especially between the hockey players … very realistic. Then there’s the steamy scenes … hot! I liked that characters from previous books are in this book, but there were too many to keep track of … a legend of the characters explaining who each one was would have been helpful. This is a great addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next book!
Jason has just been traded to the NHL team in Chicago and he’s ecstatic, as that is where his family lives. And it doesn’t hurt that he can get away from an ex girlfriend who started dating someone shortly after leaving him and became pregnant. That’s what he wanted with her … a family.
Franky is a nerd … she’d rather talk to snails and slugs than people. But as she’s in her late 30s, she feels that biological clock ticking and she wants to be a mom. She feels no one will want the “Slug Girl” so she makes a plan to have a child on her own. Now all she needs is a sperm donor. When the first man she asks says no, she is shocked when his brother Jason volunteers. She has never gotten along with Jason and they only tolerate each other. Will they be able to put their differences aside to be co-parents?
I received an ARC courtesy of The Author Agency.
I love this author’s style of writing. Jason and Franky had me laughing-out-loud! They were so opposite but perfect for each other at the same time. I loved the banter between the characters, especially between the hockey players … very realistic. Then there’s the steamy scenes … hot! I liked that characters from previous books are in this book, but there were too many to keep track of … a legend of the characters explaining who each one was would have been helpful. This is a great addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next book!
Jason has just been traded to the NHL team in Chicago and he’s ecstatic, as that is where his family lives. And it doesn’t hurt that he can get away from an ex girlfriend who started dating someone shortly after leaving him and became pregnant. That’s what he wanted with her … a family.
Franky is a nerd … she’d rather talk to snails and slugs than people. But as she’s in her late 30s, she feels that biological clock ticking and she wants to be a mom. She feels no one will want the “Slug Girl” so she makes a plan to have a child on her own. Now all she needs is a sperm donor. When the first man she asks says no, she is shocked when his brother Jason volunteers. She has never gotten along with Jason and they only tolerate each other. Will they be able to put their differences aside to be co-parents?
I received an ARC courtesy of The Author Agency.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jason and Franky… where to begin….
It took me a bit of time to warm up to their characters. It seemed a little clunky to me at the start, but as the story developed, it started to flow better, and ended up being very enjoyable.
The premise is good - she’s heading towards 40, and wants a child, and feels that time is running out. With no relationship in sight, she decides to go the donor route, but wants to use a person known to her to ensure she knows exactly what she’s getting….
Enter Jason… they’ve had a hostile relationship since childhood. He made comments, she’s reacted, and now over 20 years later, both steer clear, and when they do interact, it’s nastiness and snark.
What followed was a blend of emotional, snark, spice, and humour. The unfolding of the actual relationship was slow, but the spice occurred fairly early. As expected, there was quite a bit of conflict; at times it felt too drawn out and repetitive, but still fit with the flow.
I much preferred Jason to Franky towards the end - he fell first, and he fell hard. He was just TS to realise what was going on. However, Frankie fell, but held on to all of her fears and put him through the wringer.
This surprisingly ended up being a page-turner for me. I stayed up way, way, way too late reading this…. And while the ending was sweet, I just wish that it didn’t have quite so much repetition of their drama, which just made the middle drag a bit.
It took me a bit of time to warm up to their characters. It seemed a little clunky to me at the start, but as the story developed, it started to flow better, and ended up being very enjoyable.
The premise is good - she’s heading towards 40, and wants a child, and feels that time is running out. With no relationship in sight, she decides to go the donor route, but wants to use a person known to her to ensure she knows exactly what she’s getting….
Enter Jason… they’ve had a hostile relationship since childhood. He made comments, she’s reacted, and now over 20 years later, both steer clear, and when they do interact, it’s nastiness and snark.
What followed was a blend of emotional, snark, spice, and humour. The unfolding of the actual relationship was slow, but the spice occurred fairly early. As expected, there was quite a bit of conflict; at times it felt too drawn out and repetitive, but still fit with the flow.
I much preferred Jason to Franky towards the end - he fell first, and he fell hard. He was just TS to realise what was going on. However, Frankie fell, but held on to all of her fears and put him through the wringer.
This surprisingly ended up being a page-turner for me. I stayed up way, way, way too late reading this…. And while the ending was sweet, I just wish that it didn’t have quite so much repetition of their drama, which just made the middle drag a bit.
February 2, 2026
What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good enemies-to-lovers romance. In the previous series of Chicago Rebels books, we met Jason Isner and Frankie St. James. Jason is half-brother to hockey legend Theo Kershaw. He was traded to the Rebels just as his brother retired. While he hoped to play one season with Theo, he’s just happy to be closer to his family. Frankie St. James is the daughter of hockey legend Ben St. James and step-daughter to Violet, one of the owners of the Rebels. Jason and Franky have a mutual animosity that dates back to their teenage years. He insulted her for being a nerd interested in snails and slugs, and she insulted him back for being a dumb jock. Fast forward 20+ years, and Franky is a professor at a local Chicago university and has decided she wants a baby. Jason overhears Franky asking her brother Sean to be the donor, but Sean turns her down. Jason also has baby fever and persuades Franky to let him be the father. What starts as a simple donation in a cup eventually becomes a struggle to get pregnant the old-fashioned way. Both Franky and Jason are wonderful characters who can’t seem to get out of their own way due to issues stemming from parental abandonment. I really love this series and can’t wait for the next book. I received an ARC of this book from the author for my honest review.
Review of advance copy
The improbable connection between the brainiac doc and the hot hockey player.
Franky St James is determined to be a mother on her own. Life hasn’t been easy and being labelled and the nerd, not-so-pretty girl, has left its scars on her image and self-worth. All she wants and needs is a guy to make a contribution and leave her alone.
Enter Jason Isner, the hockey player.
He may seen confident and arrogant, but he wants stability and a true family. So, when the opportunity knocks, he decides to go for it.
Their non- traditional agreement pushes them to spend time together and get to know one another beneath the surface and all their pre-conceived ideas.
Franky is vulnerable and Jason is protective.
Franks trusts scientific proof and Jason leans on his gut.
Franky is objective and Jason leans on his feelings.
They seem to be complete opposites, except on all the things that truly matter: family, love and the importance of having good role models.
Their relationship evolves naturally and their chemistry grows, while they navigate an emotional new challenge: being parents.
Top Shelf Stud is a spicy, heartfelt romance that shows how love can surprise you, heal you, can be original and unexpected.
Kate Meader brings us emotional growth, vulnerability, insecurities, surprising chemistry and true love.
Thank you for the ARC.
Franky St James is determined to be a mother on her own. Life hasn’t been easy and being labelled and the nerd, not-so-pretty girl, has left its scars on her image and self-worth. All she wants and needs is a guy to make a contribution and leave her alone.
Enter Jason Isner, the hockey player.
He may seen confident and arrogant, but he wants stability and a true family. So, when the opportunity knocks, he decides to go for it.
Their non- traditional agreement pushes them to spend time together and get to know one another beneath the surface and all their pre-conceived ideas.
Franky is vulnerable and Jason is protective.
Franks trusts scientific proof and Jason leans on his gut.
Franky is objective and Jason leans on his feelings.
They seem to be complete opposites, except on all the things that truly matter: family, love and the importance of having good role models.
Their relationship evolves naturally and their chemistry grows, while they navigate an emotional new challenge: being parents.
Top Shelf Stud is a spicy, heartfelt romance that shows how love can surprise you, heal you, can be original and unexpected.
Kate Meader brings us emotional growth, vulnerability, insecurities, surprising chemistry and true love.
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨arc review✨
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★ ★ ★ ★
Tropes- She needs a donor, Dislikes to Friends to Lovers, Hockey Romance, Emotional, Found Family, Opposites attract
-
"The baby brought us closer together and made us both see each other in a different light. I'm not going to deny that. Those are facts. But I don't find you sexy and attractive and goddamn infuriating because you're pregnant with my kid. Somehow, you've managed to come up with that allure all by yourself."
Frankie and Jason definitely got off to a bad start when they were younger and even years later.Frankie wants to be a mom but she needs a donor and so she makes a list but a lot of them is not working out. Jason had just got out of a relationship after she told him she doesn't see herself having kids with him. Frankie and Jason is story has everything emotional turns, angst, anger and slow burn but it's still such an beautiful story everytime they got closer together something would go wrong and I just hated that for them but l am so glad everything worked out for them and their family and since this author is new to me and this is next gen I will definitely be going back!
“I love you, Truly, I do. Since I spied that EpiPen in your pocket. Since I turned over that cat cushion and saw a cat skull. Since you brought me home the night of Theo’s party and loved my hurt away. Those endorphins might even have been whispering in my ear when I saw you give a little girl a handmade bracelet for her birthday and wore the one you made for yourself.”
Thank You For giving me this arc ✨🖤
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★ ★ ★ ★
Tropes- She needs a donor, Dislikes to Friends to Lovers, Hockey Romance, Emotional, Found Family, Opposites attract
-
"The baby brought us closer together and made us both see each other in a different light. I'm not going to deny that. Those are facts. But I don't find you sexy and attractive and goddamn infuriating because you're pregnant with my kid. Somehow, you've managed to come up with that allure all by yourself."
Frankie and Jason definitely got off to a bad start when they were younger and even years later.Frankie wants to be a mom but she needs a donor and so she makes a list but a lot of them is not working out. Jason had just got out of a relationship after she told him she doesn't see herself having kids with him. Frankie and Jason is story has everything emotional turns, angst, anger and slow burn but it's still such an beautiful story everytime they got closer together something would go wrong and I just hated that for them but l am so glad everything worked out for them and their family and since this author is new to me and this is next gen I will definitely be going back!
“I love you, Truly, I do. Since I spied that EpiPen in your pocket. Since I turned over that cat cushion and saw a cat skull. Since you brought me home the night of Theo’s party and loved my hurt away. Those endorphins might even have been whispering in my ear when I saw you give a little girl a handmade bracelet for her birthday and wore the one you made for yourself.”
Thank You For giving me this arc ✨🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another outing in the Chicago Rebels world with the second generation, this time focusing on Franky St. James and her decision to go it alone in becoming a mother. Of course, a woman of science would spreadsheet all the potential donor candidates available both academic and sporting.
Jason, the boy who made a lasting impression on her when he called her Slug Girl back when they were teens, was eliminated early, only for him to step up and plead his case.
Having hangups about family resulting in him not wanting a relationship but wanting to be a father, this was an ideal solution for him. But between his desire to be involved every step of the way, with them eventually conceiving naturally, and the time they spend together, learning more about the other, has them turning the antagonism towards the other into respect and longing.
There were loads of hurdles along the path for these two and they both took a very long time to get over their prejudices and admit they had feelings, but I loved the path this blossoming romance took and enjoyed the story immensely
I’ve read all the books Ms. Meader has published in this “Chicago Rebels” world and always love to see the OG characters making their cameos and forming part of the story in this next gen series.
Jason, the boy who made a lasting impression on her when he called her Slug Girl back when they were teens, was eliminated early, only for him to step up and plead his case.
Having hangups about family resulting in him not wanting a relationship but wanting to be a father, this was an ideal solution for him. But between his desire to be involved every step of the way, with them eventually conceiving naturally, and the time they spend together, learning more about the other, has them turning the antagonism towards the other into respect and longing.
There were loads of hurdles along the path for these two and they both took a very long time to get over their prejudices and admit they had feelings, but I loved the path this blossoming romance took and enjoyed the story immensely
I’ve read all the books Ms. Meader has published in this “Chicago Rebels” world and always love to see the OG characters making their cameos and forming part of the story in this next gen series.
February 15, 2026
The enemies-to-friends-to-lovers evolution in this book is so well done. It unfolds naturally and feels completely believable for both characters, which made their journey really satisfying to read.
I loved Franky as a strong STEM FMC. Her quirks were sometimes awkward, sometimes funny, but always endearing. Watching her slowly come out of her shell and reveal different sides of herself was one of my favorite parts of the story. Jason is such a great match for her. He wants kids, isn’t afraid of fatherhood he actually embraces it, and genuinely makes her feel valued and important. The fact that her intelligence is what turns him on is a huge win in my book.
One thing I really appreciated was seeing them navigate communication and conflict before officially becoming a couple. Watching them work through misunderstandings and emotional growth without the pressure of a defined romantic relationship made it feel like they were setting a solid foundation for something lasting.
Overall, I really enjoyed watching Jason and Franky’s relationship evolve. Their conflicts felt real, their growth felt earned, and I was very happy with how everything came together in the end.
I loved Franky as a strong STEM FMC. Her quirks were sometimes awkward, sometimes funny, but always endearing. Watching her slowly come out of her shell and reveal different sides of herself was one of my favorite parts of the story. Jason is such a great match for her. He wants kids, isn’t afraid of fatherhood he actually embraces it, and genuinely makes her feel valued and important. The fact that her intelligence is what turns him on is a huge win in my book.
One thing I really appreciated was seeing them navigate communication and conflict before officially becoming a couple. Watching them work through misunderstandings and emotional growth without the pressure of a defined romantic relationship made it feel like they were setting a solid foundation for something lasting.
Overall, I really enjoyed watching Jason and Franky’s relationship evolve. Their conflicts felt real, their growth felt earned, and I was very happy with how everything came together in the end.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This was my first Kate Meader book and it hooked me instantly. Smart heroine. Hot hockey player. Two decades of petty resentment. Add a baby contract and simmer until spicy.
She’s a laser focused snail professor who wants a child and approaches life like a research project. He’s a confident D man with Olympic level fertility and a teenage nickname that apparently launched a 23 year grudge. The setup is chaotic in the best way.
Jason completely won me over. Yes, he was an annoying thirteen year old once upon a time, but the man he grows into is thoughtful, steady, and all in. Watching him fall first and fall hard was chef’s kiss. What made this story tense for me was how often she defaulted to the contract instead of his feelings. It hurt to see him sidelined when they were clearly building something real.
Still, the banter sparkles, the science details are surprisingly fascinating, and the emotional payoff delivers. Funny, steamy, and smarter than your average sports romance. I’m officially invested in this series.
*I received a free copy and chose to leave an honest review.
She’s a laser focused snail professor who wants a child and approaches life like a research project. He’s a confident D man with Olympic level fertility and a teenage nickname that apparently launched a 23 year grudge. The setup is chaotic in the best way.
Jason completely won me over. Yes, he was an annoying thirteen year old once upon a time, but the man he grows into is thoughtful, steady, and all in. Watching him fall first and fall hard was chef’s kiss. What made this story tense for me was how often she defaulted to the contract instead of his feelings. It hurt to see him sidelined when they were clearly building something real.
Still, the banter sparkles, the science details are surprisingly fascinating, and the emotional payoff delivers. Funny, steamy, and smarter than your average sports romance. I’m officially invested in this series.
*I received a free copy and chose to leave an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Very cute, steamy frenemies to parents to something more book that centers around Franky, a professor with a PhD in the study of snails and Jason, a hotshot hockey player. The pair have clashed since they were adolescents, and she thinks of him as an unserious player, while he thinks of her as the super smart and weird woman obsessed with weird creatures who also thinks he’s as dumb as a rock. When Franky asks Jason’s brother to be a sp3rm donor for her DIY pregnancy, Jason is glad he turns her down, but he’s ready for fatherhood and becomes intrigued by the thought of coparenting due to his recently disastrous love life, and even if it’s with the exacting, clinical Franky.
When the insemination attempts take a decidedly hands-on turn, Jason develops some inconvenient attachments for the good doctor, while she’s convinced it’s a huge mistake to expect anything from him other than his custom swimmers.
It was fun watching them wrestle with their true feelings at vastly different paces. Franky’s complete discounting of Jason’s wishes, and the assumptions she makes about his true feelings becomes a bit much as d-day looms, but it’s still a good time. This is by far my favorite Kate Meader romance I’ve read to date.
I was generously provided an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m sharing my honest review.
When the insemination attempts take a decidedly hands-on turn, Jason develops some inconvenient attachments for the good doctor, while she’s convinced it’s a huge mistake to expect anything from him other than his custom swimmers.
It was fun watching them wrestle with their true feelings at vastly different paces. Franky’s complete discounting of Jason’s wishes, and the assumptions she makes about his true feelings becomes a bit much as d-day looms, but it’s still a good time. This is by far my favorite Kate Meader romance I’ve read to date.
I was generously provided an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another amazing addition to this series
I have loved every book so far in this series, finding myself so invested in the lives and families of each couple.
This time it’s Franky and Jason’s turn and once again I got lost in the story hoping that Franky could see past her nerdy status and believe that she was good enough for Jason.
He most certainly thought that they were good together but proving it to Franky was a problem.
Just a few things I enjoyed about this story
-the catch up’s with previous characters
-that Franky was an independent strong woman that wasn’t afraid to go after what she wanted
-how loving both Jason and Franky were with their own families
-that both truly wanted to have a child and were willing to take the chance together even though they’d known it would be hard
This was an excellent read with wonderful characters, with both fun and serious moments plus some spicy scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed spending more time within the Chicago Players Series and am looking forward to reading Lauren’s story.
I have loved every book so far in this series, finding myself so invested in the lives and families of each couple.
This time it’s Franky and Jason’s turn and once again I got lost in the story hoping that Franky could see past her nerdy status and believe that she was good enough for Jason.
He most certainly thought that they were good together but proving it to Franky was a problem.
Just a few things I enjoyed about this story
-the catch up’s with previous characters
-that Franky was an independent strong woman that wasn’t afraid to go after what she wanted
-how loving both Jason and Franky were with their own families
-that both truly wanted to have a child and were willing to take the chance together even though they’d known it would be hard
This was an excellent read with wonderful characters, with both fun and serious moments plus some spicy scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed spending more time within the Chicago Players Series and am looking forward to reading Lauren’s story.
Review of advance copy
Chicago Players #3
Jason Isner and Franky St. James have rubbed each other wrong since they were teens.
Now Franky is 38 and it's Dr. St. James as she's a world-famous malacologist who studies snails and slugs and is a professor at a local Chicago University. She has decided she wants a baby but isn't dating anyone so she makes a list of possible "donors" .
Jason is 36 and a hockey player who was traded from Boston to the Chicago Rebels hoping to play with his half brother Theo who had just retired.
Jason finds out his brother Sean is on Franky's list and is upset that he isn't a candidate. Jason wants to be a dad and finally talks Franky into letting him be the donor but he has his own ideas on how that will work. Franky has it planned out that she is raising the baby by herself but Jason has other ideas.
The more time they spend together she finds that Jason is not just a "dumb jock" and understands her. Can they find love?
4 stars
Cute story. Opposites attract. Love the bantering between them and of course all the family they both have.
Jason Isner and Franky St. James have rubbed each other wrong since they were teens.
Now Franky is 38 and it's Dr. St. James as she's a world-famous malacologist who studies snails and slugs and is a professor at a local Chicago University. She has decided she wants a baby but isn't dating anyone so she makes a list of possible "donors" .
Jason is 36 and a hockey player who was traded from Boston to the Chicago Rebels hoping to play with his half brother Theo who had just retired.
Jason finds out his brother Sean is on Franky's list and is upset that he isn't a candidate. Jason wants to be a dad and finally talks Franky into letting him be the donor but he has his own ideas on how that will work. Franky has it planned out that she is raising the baby by herself but Jason has other ideas.
The more time they spend together she finds that Jason is not just a "dumb jock" and understands her. Can they find love?
4 stars
Cute story. Opposites attract. Love the bantering between them and of course all the family they both have.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Top Shelf Stud is NHL defensive man Jason Isner and the woman who prefers snails to people, Franky St James’s entertaining and fun story. It’s book three in the Chicago Players Series and I loved everything about this enemies to lovers, baby pack , hockey romance.
Franky and Jason have known each other most of their life’s, they mixed in the same circles both coming from hockey royalty but the teenage crush she had went unnoticed. Fast forward to today and her body clock is ticking so she is back in town with a list of potential sperm donors…….but has Jason made her list and how will she react when he volunteers his services.
What follows is a fun, entertaining and at times emotional story as Jason and Franky fall for each other.
This book touched me on so many levels, I fell hard and fast forward Jason and I adored Frankly but it was the love he has for his family especially his niece Tilly that touched my heart. The story is well written, the chemistry is sizzling and the bickering banter is fun and I loved it all.
Franky and Jason have known each other most of their life’s, they mixed in the same circles both coming from hockey royalty but the teenage crush she had went unnoticed. Fast forward to today and her body clock is ticking so she is back in town with a list of potential sperm donors…….but has Jason made her list and how will she react when he volunteers his services.
What follows is a fun, entertaining and at times emotional story as Jason and Franky fall for each other.
This book touched me on so many levels, I fell hard and fast forward Jason and I adored Frankly but it was the love he has for his family especially his niece Tilly that touched my heart. The story is well written, the chemistry is sizzling and the bickering banter is fun and I loved it all.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was another 4-4.5 star read so I'm a big fan of this series and looking forward to more. The story pulled me in quickly and I basically couldn't put it down. I finished reading it the same day! I've read the author before and I enjoy their writing style, this flowed really well and kept me hooked throughout. I liked how the characters were a little older (in their thirties) as I think it made it more interesting to read. Franky was very abrupt at times and quite clueless about how much she was hurting Jason (who has been through a lot with his family and ex, the poor guy) but I liked how intelligent and focused on her work she was... So nice to have a story about such a smart woman but I wish she'd been a little stronger standing up for herself professionally at times. Clearly a lot of research had been done into her area of expertise as there was a lot of snail/slug info! Kind of cool to learn a bit.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed Franky and Jason’s story, especially the slight enemies to lovers aspect of it. I did find it alittle difficult to like Franky at times, she was just a tad dull. I know it’s just the loner scientist “geek” aspect of her character but I just found her a bit hard to relate to. Which is fine, it just took me a bit to get past that aspect. Jason on the other hand, was easier to get on board with, because even if in the beginning his reasons for his actions weren’t completely genuine, he really grows into his character and embraces Franky and the role she now plays in his life.
The planned pregnancy despite them not being together is the focal point of the book and it’s done well. Lots of character growth dealing with this aspect throughout the whole book.
All in all, it’s an interesting enjoyable read that took me two sittings to finish, so I’d call it a relatively quick book!
The planned pregnancy despite them not being together is the focal point of the book and it’s done well. Lots of character growth dealing with this aspect throughout the whole book.
All in all, it’s an interesting enjoyable read that took me two sittings to finish, so I’d call it a relatively quick book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A little bit giddy to finally read the story of childhood nemesis Jason and Franky! A slow burn for sure, and their situationship kept me on my toes and forever turning the page to find out ‘will they/ won’t they’. Loved that these two were slightly older, well into their thirties but that just meant they both knew exactly what they wanted, for Franky, a baby despite not being in a relationship and for Jason, the same, he wanted to be a dad but had his heart trampled on already. This was the perfect set up for them….until it wasn’t and feeling got caught!
A stand alone in the interconnected Rebels series, these two are both second generation characters and Kate writes them out brilliantly!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
A stand alone in the interconnected Rebels series, these two are both second generation characters and Kate writes them out brilliantly!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
💭 First, I really enjoyed the premise of the story (Franky looking for a sperm donor and using logic to help her find it. Jason being got done she discounts quickly, but yet he wants in). The animosity between these two is rooted in something from when they were young teens. That coupled with the way Franky treats Jason throughout the story, meant the romance missed the mark for me a bit.
How is it still a 3.5⭐? Because the writing and overall premise were so strong, that I still found myself pulled into the story. Even if I was bumping on things. I also LOVED Jason. He had some hidden depths that I appreciated, and wanted him to get his HEA, even if it meant he had to wait out Franky a bit.
Overall, this was a solid addition to the series, and I’m looking forward to the next one!
☑️ For fans of: enemies to lovers, she wants a baby, opposites attract
I was kindly provided an ARC, but my review is honest and completely my own.
How is it still a 3.5⭐? Because the writing and overall premise were so strong, that I still found myself pulled into the story. Even if I was bumping on things. I also LOVED Jason. He had some hidden depths that I appreciated, and wanted him to get his HEA, even if it meant he had to wait out Franky a bit.
Overall, this was a solid addition to the series, and I’m looking forward to the next one!
☑️ For fans of: enemies to lovers, she wants a baby, opposites attract
I was kindly provided an ARC, but my review is honest and completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second generation of Rebels is hooking up and creating families almost as fast as their parents. Franky, dad is Bren and step mom is Violet (Rebels co-owner), loves her slimy snails and slugs but she’s adorable and unafraid to be herself. Jason, Theo’s half brother and uncle to another upstart, just got traded from Boston to join his family in Chicago. So interconnected these guys! It’s like we need a family tree. Well, Franky decided she was going to be a mom and didn’t want to use a bank so she created one of her famous lists of people to ask. Jason and Franky never suspected but they were more right for each than they ever realized. So easy to enjoy this series and the original, lovable characters and strong minded women along with some interesting hockey players. I’ll never turn down an advanced copy from Meader, I loved this one and happily give my voluntary review.
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February 20, 2026I knew going into this one that there was tension between Jason and Franky, and I knew that she could be sharp tongued. But I got really tired of her pseudo-feminist rants used as cover for immaturity and her "independent" spirit as cover for not having adult conversations. If I were Jason, I wouldn't trust a word she says because she didn't really show him much love or even consideration. In fairness, she does show self-awareness in her own thoughts sometimes, and she does apologize a few times. But she is 38! I expect better. This writer can do a much better job with her FMCs, and I was disappointed.
I liked Jason, but it was hard to get to know him as a partner since Framky was so prickly. I enjoyed catching up with other characters from the series. I enjoyed the snails and thought they made a cute motif through the story.
I liked Jason, but it was hard to get to know him as a partner since Framky was so prickly. I enjoyed catching up with other characters from the series. I enjoyed the snails and thought they made a cute motif through the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely adored this book! I’ve literally just finished and I’ve got the warm fuzzies from Jason and Franky, Bunsen and Beaker, Super Kid, and the whole Rebels family who make cameos. Despite my general avoidance of enemies-to-loves, Kate Meader never fails to deliver a book that is fun, sexy, and engaging, so I went into Top Shelf Stud hopeful and came out utterly delighted.
What a great pairing these two were. Both with their insecurities and preconceived notions, but both ultimately willing to grow and change, accept that they might have been mistaken, and embrace the chaos of love.
It’s just such a rewarding romance—the small steps Jason and Franky take toward one another as their story unfolds felt like little victories, and when the HEA eventually came, it came with all the feels and a big ol’ smile. Can’t recommend this author enough, she never disappoints.
What a great pairing these two were. Both with their insecurities and preconceived notions, but both ultimately willing to grow and change, accept that they might have been mistaken, and embrace the chaos of love.
It’s just such a rewarding romance—the small steps Jason and Franky take toward one another as their story unfolds felt like little victories, and when the HEA eventually came, it came with all the feels and a big ol’ smile. Can’t recommend this author enough, she never disappoints.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whenever I want a fun, heartfelt romance I turn to Kate Meander. I just absolutely love everything this woman writes, and this book is no exception. I am not even a fan of woman feeling her biological clock ticking, and I absolutely loved this.
Frankie is so confident in her weirdness, but at the same time resents it and the distance it creates with some people. Jason on the other hand is an extrovert self assured sometimes asshole, but he also has moments of doubt... Both of them do, but it's lovely to see how they build each other up (to sometimes fucking it up sometimes), but overall it was a joy to see them discover each other.Also, this book had one of the most interesting birth I read about, and I am not joking!
Frankie is so confident in her weirdness, but at the same time resents it and the distance it creates with some people. Jason on the other hand is an extrovert self assured sometimes asshole, but he also has moments of doubt... Both of them do, but it's lovely to see how they build each other up (to sometimes fucking it up sometimes), but overall it was a joy to see them discover each other.Also, this book had one of the most interesting birth I read about, and I am not joking!
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