Face Off with Fate

A Scoring Chance #2

by Marie Maravilla

The pre-order date listed is NOT the release date. Cover and date are both placeholders. The hint from High Sticking the Heart on who Book 2 is “This isn’t Bring a Family Member to Work Day, Contreras,” Josh said in his usual gruff tone, crossing his arms over his chest and glaring.

Gracie peeled Ari’s hand from her mouth. “Well, lucky for you, I’m here to do my job,” she said with a smile, clearly unfazed by his grumpiness.

Monroe raised an eyebrow, nodding toward the coffee carrier and arm full of stuff. “What job’s that? Crafts services?”

“No, actually,” she said, not missing a beat. “I work in sports marketing, specializing in content.” She flashed her pass in Monroe’s face, coming within inches of hitting him. I tried not to laugh. “See, I was invited, thank you very much. Usually, it’s my job to make people like you look better. Most of the time, I charge for this advice, but you look like you could use it, so here’s a freebie. If you smiled more, they wouldn’t think you’re part bear.”

The words were kind, hell even her tone was, but there was still something in her delivery that made it undeniable that she was telling him to go fuck himself.

Monroe’s scowl deepened, but her grin only widened.

*
*
*
This to
*Grumpy/Sunshine
*He Doesn't Want To Like Her
*Single Dad Romance
*Bit of an Age Gap (33-25)
*So Much Banter
*Mexicana FMCs

Genres: Sports Romance, Hockey, Sports, Hockey Romance, Romance, Workplace Romance, Forced Proximity

432 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2026

About the author

They say to write these things in 3rd person, but it feels weird. So, I'm not. Clearly. I'm a baby author who deiced it was finally time to purge the stories living in my head. I currently live in Tennessee with my two babies and husband. My life is a wonderful cycle of working, writing, mom-ing, and consuming questionable amounts of caffeine.

Reviews

[megan ◡̈ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS SOOOO MUCH, i very quickly fell in love with marie’s writing last year while listening to high sticking the heart and have been gnawing at the gates of my enclosure for graciella and monroe’s story since the day i finished and they were everything i hoped they would be and more!!

marie’s writing style can only be described as magnetic, she draws you in immediately and hooks you so good you wont want to put the book down. i can guarantee you will never be bored while reading one of her books, the charisma, wit, emotional maturity (!!!) and chemistry of the characters is unmatched. you will definitely feel a rollercoaster of emotions through out (marie is very good at rage baiting me with a certain someones dad LOL).

something thats going to hit for me every time is a single dad romance where the child quite literally steals the show every time they are on page. goldie was so freaking adorable its not even funny, i absolutely loved her personality and how monroe let her be herself and never dulled her sparkle and the way when gracie entered the picture she immediately met goldie where she was and joined in on the fun. my heart melted constantly over these three 😭

a little detail of this book that i absolutely loved was the chapter titles (i live for chaotic chapter titles sorry not sorry) marie breaking the fourth wall with a little snippet of what was to come in the chapter was just the chaotic cherry on top of the story i needed. my personal favorite: “My two little broken babies filling each other’s emotional holes. (and eventually other holes…)” 💀

anywho, if you have yet to read this series wyd!!! i cannot recommend them enough if you love hockey romances, bad ass latina women in sports and their partners who worship the ground they walk on and having fun then these books are FOR YOUUU 🙂‍↕️

[Mairi Swan · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Age gap
*Sports
*Banter
*Humor
*Grumpy/sunshine
*Fake (kind of)
*Single dad

Heroine, Graciella has gotten in some trouble and for her to untangle from it she works with hero, Monroe, who is a single dad grumpy coach and needs to fix his image. But the plan doesn't go according to plan...
I really liked Graciella and how strong she was. She didn't let anyone step on her as she was so confident and sure of herself and I loved it.
I liked Monroe and how, despite of his grumpiness and unwillingness, he was always there for Graciella. Also Goldie! The sweetest kid ever! (Me just melting)
I loved the banter and the tension between them. It was constantly there and kept me on my toes the whole time reading it. And when they finally give in...OMG!
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.

[Lynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m only 58% into the first book and I KNEW it was going to be about them. And sorry not sorry, but the speed at which I opened Goodreads to search for their book? Unmatched.

I’m already counting down the days! It’s on my calendar—I’m not forgetting this one. Can we just fast-forward to June 2026 already?

The way I’m eating up High Sticking the Heart, I know I’m going to devour Gracie’s story next.

What can I say? Marie’s just that good—whether it’s dark mafia romance or sports romance, she delivers every time. I’ve been a fan since the Toxic Paradise series, and honestly, she deserves so much more recognition. She deserves the spotlight just like all those big-name authors.

[Larareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to House of Hearts for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This took me so freaking long to finish, with school and everything, even though it was one of my favorite books I read this month.
It was my first Marie Maravilla books and I'm honestly mad at myself for not discovering her books earlier.
Such a fun, fast-paced read, the writing is amazing and the characters feel so real. The banter and tension is wild! I love a forbidden romance and this was done extremely well!

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟, 3🌶️

If you want a story that delivers on every level, look no further.

I am completely obsessed with this story and the electric chemistry between Graciella and Monroe.

Watching Graciella, a sharp-witted and confident force of nature, collide with the grumpy and guarded coach was an absolute highlight. Their banter is elite and kept me grinning through every scene, creating a tension that felt both playful and deeply magnetic.

The emotional heart of the book is what truly took me by surprise. Beneath his quiet, cynical exterior, Monroe is a devoted single dad, and watching him with his daughter, Goldie, was enough to make my heart melt. Graciella bringing her chaotic warmth into their lives felt so natural and grounding. Seeing these two broken, guarded people slowly decide to trust each other was a beautiful and incredibly satisfying journey to witness.

Everything about this read felt fresh and sincere, from the hilarious chapter titles to the way the story balanced humor with genuine vulnerability. It avoids all the predictable traps of the genre, offering something that feels deeply human, romantic, and perfectly paced. This is the kind of story that leaves you feeling full, happy, and desperate for more, and I have officially found a new favourite to recommend to everyone.

Truly a perfect read that left me feeling completely satisfied.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts Lit for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[Darlene I read WAY to many books · Rating 4 out of 5]

We met these two in the last book and i am telling you I ATE IT UP!!! I Love Graciella she is down in the dumps for losing her job and I hated how she lost it. But moving and sorta putting herself in Monroe bussiness was funny. Girl gotta get a job she's making sure its good.. even if I don't think she was paid lol. So the plan to clean up Monroe image simple and easy fake date someone. And honest that was my biggest worry. But it wasn't bad since both parties didn’t even like eachother that way.
But that was happening in public but in private I loved Monroe doing Graciella laundry, fixing things around her place letting her watch his kid. Was just amazing. The chemistry and banter between the 2 was off the charts.
Goldie and Graciella bonding was so cute I need more family moments 💗
Dont worry we have some drama and moments that break your heart.
We saw more side characters and maybe the next couple 😏

Saftey- the fake dating isn't bad no feelings at all no kisses nothing.

Low angst, no ow/om drama, no cheating, slight secondary character, Drama, sexy times, no virgins

Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶


Slowburnish
Age gap
34MMC/26FMC
Praise kink
Masturbation
Single parent
Fake dating but not her
No condom
Minupulation of a parent
Death of a parent
Hea
Epilogue

[Sandy (Sandy.Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
*rounded up

The banter in this book was absolutely everything. The tension between Graciella and Monroe was off the charts, and when they finally gave in to it, I was absolutely losing my mind.

I am such a sucker for a hot single dad, and Monroe completely stole my heart. Watching Graciella see the way he loved and cared for Goldie healed a little part of her heart. He also had this way of always showing up for her when she least expected it, proving time and time again that she never had to face things alone. And when it came time to fight for her, he was more than willing to chase Graciella to the ends of the earth to prove how much he loved her.

Add in a little forbidden romance while he’s supposed to be fake dating someone else, and I was completely hooked. I am obsessed with this friend group and cannot wait to dive into the next book!

[Karly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m absolutely loving this series! It’s cute and fun and the romance is amazing! The fmcs are strong and independent. The banter is flirty. It’s just a super bingeable read. This book was especially cute because of how closed off both mcs were to relationships. They built trust with each other and i loved reading it! I’m also a sucker for a grumpy sunshine dynamic where he slowly opens up to her. This is a sports romance series I’ll definitely be recommend to people!

[Lauren⚡️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

give me a grumpy single dad any day and i will fall in love with him! i don’t make the rules!!!!

this is the first book I have been able to finish this month without an audiobook. I ate this up start to finish, I was addicted to this story!!

the banter between monroe and graciella had me smiling and giggling at my phone the whole time and goldie was the cutest kid in the world omg

i’m actually obsessed with these characters and cannot wait for the next book!!!!!

[Lauren (lololovesthings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 stars.

I had a great time reading "Face Off with Fate" by Marie Maravilla. This was a quick and easy read, mostly because it was so fun and funny! I particularly loved the banter between the main characters, Graciella/Gracie (FMC) and Josh Monroe (MMC). Graciella is such a bratty, witty, sparky woman, and Josh is a deliciously grumpy down bad single dad to a wonderful daughter named Goldie. From the very first chapter with the hockey stick, I knew I was going to be hooked on them and their story. The chemistry between them was TEEMING throughout this entire book. Delicious and full of sparks!! Individually, they are excellently written characters. Gracie is chaotic, independent, and hard-working. She comes across as someone who is a total bad4ss on the outside (and she is!), but she's also housing a gooey soft center that she doesn't let just anyone see.... and Josh SEES it. He sees all of her and loves her for who she is. He yearns for her despite being a huge, massive, guarded grump. He wants to prove he's worthy of her, that she's all he wants just as she is, and my god, does it WORK!!!! The way Gracie and Goldie interact had my heart soaring, too. This book is full of heart, wit, and will likely make your heart melt. It's also got some uber mouthwatering spice as well, so stay tuned for that!

Thank you to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts Lit. for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

[all.the.smut.things · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This was such a fun time. First off, Marie’s writing style just draws you in and keeps you hooked. I love that her books are fun and a little chaotic in the best ways (hello chapter titles) and just keep you turning the page to find out more about the characters and what’s next.

I also loved both Josh and Graciella. Please give me the slightly closed off, grumpy single dad EVRRY time. They are my kryptonite. And when he’s both dad and DADDY… yes. I need it. I will beg🧎‍♀️

And can I just say that Goldie, she has the best main character energy.

✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Single Dad
✨ Coach x Publicist
✨ Age Gap
✨ Grumpy x Brat
✨ He is downbad
✨ Only one Bed

I loved this one. A down bad man will get me every single time. And Joshua (not his name 🤣) was just so grumpy but also so wonderfully obsessed. It made reading his chapters an utter delight, especially his notes.

This one was just great, Graciella was hilarious and I loved her so much. I loved how she interacted with Goldie too and always made that child feel important. I also loved her from the moment she named and bedazzled a hockey stick. That was it I was in love.

Read this it’s fantastic!

[han ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"you gonna beg for it, joshua?"
"until my very last breath, trouble."

OBSESSED. everyone was so hot, oh my god.

graciella was my favourite character. period. i saw so much of myself in her, too. she’s loyal and loves hard (especially goldie) and her attitude is everything. she’s a very “i’ll do it myself” kind of woman, except when it comes to her “fix it list”, because obviously those are jobs for men (derogatory, btw), and yes, she’s stubborn, but she’s so passionate and driven and GOOD at what she does. god, i love her so much.

monroe was hot (hello, "daddy" crop top) and his mouth was insane-- #needthat. i was head over heels for how he didn’t give up on gracie when she felt like running. i was fully rooting for him and hoping he wouldn’t let me down (he did not).

goldie was an adorable little angel, who also could be a comedian. her dialogue had me laughing so hard and i couldn’t get over it. kids are ridiculous most times, but they are also hilarious.

will be rereading soon!

thank you so much to the author and house of hearts for the e-arc! 💗

𑣲 age gap
𑣲 single dad
𑣲 grumpy x brat
𑣲 sports romance
𑣲 fake dating...but not her

[Melanie (mells_view) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s okay, baby. I’m learning I like trouble.”

4.5*

Graciella and Monroe truly stole my heart. Reading about them as cousin/friend and coach to the lead characters in High Sticking the Heart had me excited to see if they would get a story of their own, but actually reading them together was perfection. I love that Graciella is the push Monroe needs in life. He’s great dad, a great coach, a great son, but he’s closed off in so many ways. Graciella is that beam of light in his life that just changes so many things. That said, Josh is perfect for her because he fills a cup for her that she’s had to fill on her own. This one is fun for sure, but it does get deeply emotional at times but these two love and support each other through their tougher and insecure moments.

I love this story because while their relationship shouldn’t be easy, it somehow still is. There are things in their way, but the chemistry and just the way they like—love each other is so perfect and just sweet to watch. The back and forth banter from the start and just the tension that blooms between them constantly is, tense but fun to read.

If you’re looking for single dad, hidden relationship, hockey coach and his new pr manager, then you should absolutely pick this one up.

AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC

[°✧ sultana ✧° · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first book by Marie M. and it was so fun! I absolutely love it when the fmc gets along so well with the single dad’s kid, and their relationship is so adorable. You really get to see how a person fits into your life by seeing how they interact with your loved ones. How they handle parenthood, the easy moments and the not so easy ones.

Josh at the beginning of the book was so over Grace until he realized that he didn’t actually hate her, he hated that he didn’t. Also the mixed-media of seeing their notes and journal entries made this HILARIOUS and we get to see the inner workings of their brains. Super down-bad mmc and a badass fmc always make a great couple. So excited to see what’s in store for the next installment.

[Nia Antonopoulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved loved loved!!! Just what I needed to get me out of my reading slump!! Can’t wait for book three!

[ReadingTilTheBreakOfDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I AM OBSESSED. OBSESSED, I tell ya! Face Off With Fate was just so dang good! Monroe and Graciella are everything! The opposites attract tension and banter followed by the slow burn forbidden chemistry kept me on the edge of my seat with total anticipation. And those chapter titles?! Perfection! I'm Dead!

Graciella is a feisty and sassy Latina woman who gets herself in a bit of trouble and goes to drastic measures to pull herself out. And when the win she needs happens to be in the form of good PR for the grumpy single dad and hockey coach, Josh Monroe, she doesn't know how she's going to pull it off without messing something up.

Monroe has just won a championship with his new hockey team. But that's still not good enough for them. They want a guy that can actually talk to the press rather than grunt and offer one word replies. When Graciella inserts herself into Monroe's situation, they soon find themselves working together to polish up Monroe so he doesn't lose everything he's worked for. That's when Graciella comes up with an outrageous plan.

OMG! I absolutely loved this book. I just ate it up! If you know me, I'm an absolute sucker for a single dad romance and Josh Monroe ticked all my boxes and then some. He may not be a man of many words, but he loves his daughter fiercely and he is respected by his team. I loved the way Marie Maravilla wrote him to be strong and possessive in a very quiet, yet demanding way. He matched up to Graciella and her very strong personality. Yes, I love a single dad, but I love a woman that can bring a man to his knees and take hold of any situation.

"Would you look at that? My favorite sight....a man on his knees."

I wanna be Graciella when I grow up! I loved watching her push Josh's buttons but also slowly start to realize that there was much more at play between the two of them. You could feel their chemistry build while they didn't act on it, creating this insane tension that you could cut with a knife. It was insanely hot and had me excited, smiling and kicking my feet just waiting for them to give in. Although they weren't admitting to their feelings to each other, we got to see it in fun little additions to the story. The Chisme Entries from her and the Confessions of a Down-Bad Daddy from Monroe. They gave us the insight into their thoughts that they weren't ready to give up and I LOVED it!

Marie Maravilla knows how to write down bad men that are protective while matching them with strong women that come to play. With the addition of the supporting characters including his daughter Goldie, I couldn't help but be enamored with the whole story. From the banter, tension, and electric chemistry between Graciella and Monroe, to the connection that Graciella formed with Goldie that was so natural and beautiful, you can't help but fall for and love these characters and this world.

If you like:
Hockey Romance
Single Dad
Fake Dating (but not her)
Only One Bed
Badass Latina FMC
Grumpy and Possessive Hero
Slow Burn with all the tension
Banter for days
Emotional and traumatic pasts (both of them)
....then don't miss Marie Maravilla's second book in the A Scoring Chance series. It's not to be missed!!

[Darkest Bellé · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️


Face Off with Fate completely swept me away. It had me laughing, swooning, tearing up, and grinning like an idiot all in the span of a few chapters.

Marie M. somehow balances heart, humor, and undeniable chemistry so effortlessly that I never wanted this story to end.

Josh Monroe is officially joining my list of favorite book boyfriends. Give me a grumpy single dad who quietly shows his love through actions instead of words, and I'm sold every single time. The way he loves his daughter, protects the people he cares about, and slowly lets his walls crumble for Graciella? Absolute perfection. He isn't flashy—he simply shows up, over and over again, proving that love is found in the little things just as much as the grand gestures.

And Graciella? I adored her. She's ambitious, fiercely independent, chaotic in the best way, and so incredibly easy to root for. She refuses to settle for less than she deserves, and watching Josh realize he'd happily do anything for her was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. Their dynamic is playful, frustrating, tender, and completely addictive.

The banter deserves its own round of applause. Every conversation felt natural, witty, and full of tension. The fake dating, workplace complications, and slow unraveling of their feelings kept me hooked from beginning to end. Every stolen glance, every sarcastic remark, every moment where they almost admitted what they felt... it was everything I wanted.

Can we also talk about Goldie? She absolutely stole every scene she was in. She brought so much warmth and joy to the story, and watching the little family they were slowly building had my heart melting.

What I appreciated most was how emotionally grounded this romance felt. Both Josh and Graciella carried their own fears and insecurities, and their relationship wasn't about magically fixing each other—it was about choosing one another, communicating, and growing together. That made every emotional moment hit even harder.

And those romantic declarations? My heart didn't stand a chance. Marie M. knows exactly how to write love confessions that leave you staring at the page for a minute before continuing.

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next book because after those hints at what's coming next, I'm already emotionally invested. If the rest of this series delivers the same level of humor, heart, and romance, consider me completely obsessed.

Thank you Marie & Team for the arc opportunity!!

[LeaReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars baby

Oh how I loved this book. The moment Graciella Xochitil Barrera showed up and insulted Josh aka Joshua Monroe in the first book.. I know I would've loved them down.

My Graciella, my independent, chaotic, funny girl who wanted to be successful and good at her job. She finally found someone willing to fight for her and make her dreams come true. The way she had him on a leash and hanging onto her every word !! Oh I loved that. She used to go on dating apps and get guys to do stuff around her house. And then enters Mr Josh Monroe

Oh my single daddy, who is a grump ... I loved you so much. Josh, you were whipped from the beginning! The way Josh loved and protected Goldie, he was such a good dad. The moment he found out about Gracie's list, he wanted to make sure and be the man that she needs. The way he always showed up for her, be it doing her laundry or fixing her sink.. he was the best. He even put his career on the line for her just to prove she was worth it and that he would always chase after her. He got a star for all of them .. I'm cryinggg I love him
“Graciella Xochitl Barrera. I don’t know if you’re watching. But if you are, I need you to hear this. You are the person I trust, the person who has had my back.” I stared straight down the lens. “The person I love. I told you I’d chase you. I meant it.”

The fake dating, but not to her... the forbidden romance!! AHHHH! The banter in this book was sooo DELICIOUS. The sexual tension .. oh honey, I was sweatingggg in AC ! "Tell me you're my good girl.. I'm your good girl !! AHHHHH... The way I was kicking my feet and giggling at them. Oh, they are clients. I loved the Confessions of a Downbad Daddy and the CHISME ENTRY... it was sooo funny seeing the comparisons between them.

I can't wait for Itzel and José storyline... Itzel has a crush on Miguel, but he doesn't see her that way, and then we have José, the older brother, whom she despises. Oh the teaaaaa!

Favorite Quotes
~Graciella Xochitil Barrera. You are the person I trust, the person who has had my back. The person I love. I told you I'd chase you; I meant it."
~ I am a better man with you by my side, Trouble. My daughter may be the sun. But you are my moon. And I don't want to live my life without you both in it "
~“Grip the counter, Trouble; show me how well you follow directions”
~“Look at me. I would have chosen you.” He said it with a ferocity that sent a shiver through me. “Every single time, I’ll choose you, Graciella. But you have to let me.”

Thanks to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[drea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to House of Hearts Lit for the arc!

Ahhh this series is quickly becoming one of my new favorite sports romance series AND Marie M. has definitely cemented herself a favorite author of mine. There is so much heart and humor in her books, as well as characters who feel so real. Face Off with Fate had all the banter, emotions, and steam!!! 10/10

It did not take long for me to immediately fall in love with Graciella. She was so quick with her wit and I loved how strong willed she was. I also admired the fuck out of her work ethic and how fierce she was in all aspects of her life. She’s someone I wish I could be best friends with lol. I loved the way she constantly poked fun at Monroe and how loyal she was to both him and Goldie. Her relationship with Goldie was absolutely precious and made me so emotional towards the end.

One thing about me is that I love a grump, but even more so when he’s a grumpy single dad, so needless to say, I LOVED Monroe. He was such a good dad and so devoted to caring for Graciella, too. I loved how he didn’t shy away from giving her the same energy she gave him lmao their back and forth bantering was so funny. It made me so emotional to see the way everyone showed up for him in a way he didn’t have on the past.

Graciella and Monroe were hot together and omg, so here for their chemistry. They were such an easy couple to root for and I had the best time reading about them.

I also LOVED the way the Mexican culture was woven into the book. From the way Graciella talked, to the phrases she used, to experiences that are so common in our culture, to the food and more - it was really awesome seeing my own experience reflected back so intimately like that.

I thoroughly enjoyed this and I cannot wait for more!!

[Cristal Cortez · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ ARC Review ⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️

Tropes:
💚 Grumpy × Brat
🏒 Single Dad
💚 Sports Romance
🏒 One Bed
💚 Fake Dating... But Not Her
🏒 Coach
💚 Age Gap

Favorite Quote:

"My daughter may be my sun." Another kiss, soft against my lips. "But you are my moon. And I don't want to live my life without you both in it."

Marie Maravilla is such an amazing author, and one of my favorite things about her books is how she incorporates being Latina into her stories. As a Latina, there's always something that feels relatable, and this book was no exception.

I don't want to spoil anything because this baby is officially available now! This is Book 2 in the Scoring Chance series. You can read it as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading them in order for the best experience.

Now, let's talk about these characters!

Gracie completely stole my heart. I loved getting to see her softer side, and honestly, I just wanted to give her a hug. As someone with daddy issues... yeah, I felt for her. 😂

And Monroe... listen. Book one had me so curious about this grumpy single daddy, and he absolutely did not disappoint. I am a total sucker for a grumpy MMC, and he delivered everything I wanted.

I also loved how their relationship unfolded. The way everything started felt natural, and Marie did an amazing job building their story. And can we please talk about Goldie? Monroe's daughter is absolutely adorable! 🥹💛

Overall, this was such a fun, emotional, and swoony read. If you love grumpy heroes, single dads, sports romance, and all the tension that comes with fake dating and forced proximity, you definitely need to pick this one up!

I received and ARC in exchange of an honest review.

[Skylar Hatch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A little late to scream about this on release day, but since it is already out in the world, the perfect time for you to drop what you’re doing and pick it up!!!!

Marie is easily one of my favorite authors, from her darker romance the Toxic Paradise series, to her sports romance A Scoring Chance series, she can write it all, honestly.

Face Off With Fate is book 2 in A Scoring Chance series, following Graciella and Josh, both we met in book 1 but this can be read on its own (though I do highly recommend book 1, as well!!!)

I simply can never put into words how much I love everything Marie puts in her books, they’re literal crack - from the baddie FMC’s, to the funny chapter headers, to the banter that quite literally slaps EVERY TIME, to the spice?! Hello?! What more could you want????? And this one, was no exception to these scrumptious pieces to her masterpiece.

Swipe for some of my fav highlights (I had a lot so I tried to find a mix to reel ya in, okay???) feel free to read and fall in love with our troublemaking brat and the grumpy single dad, the same way I did 🤪🤗🤭

Thank you always @authormariemaravilla and @houseofheartslit for the eARC!!!

Absolutely CANNOT WAIIITTTTT for book 3 already too 🥵⚾️

What to expect:
💁🏻‍♀️ Brat x Grumpy
🧑‍🧒 Single Dad
🛏️ One Bed
👴🏻 Age Gap (he’s not THAT old lol I just like the grandpa emoji)
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
🏒 Sports Romance
📢 Publicist x Coach
😏 Fake Dating…. But not with her (even though he wants it to be hehehehehe)
😛 So Much Banter
🌶️ Open Door

[Jess (GetbookedwithJessica) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Face Off with Fate had me hooked from the very beginning! The opposites-attract dynamic, witty banter, and slow-burn, forbidden chemistry kept me turning the pages with all the tension building. And those chapter titles?! They added the perfect touch of humor and made every chapter even more fun to dive into.

Marie has such a gift for creating stories full of heart, humor, and characters who feel incredibly real. Face Off with Fate delivered everything I wanted with the banter, emotional moments, sizzling chemistry, and plenty of steam.

This is the second book in the A Scoring Chance series, following Graciella and Josh, whom we first met in book one. While it can absolutely be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading book one first because it's just as fantastic!

Graciella... my impulsive yet fiercely in-control queen. I absolutely adored her. She somehow managed to balance complete chaos while staying one step ahead the entire time. From taking charge of Monroe's situation, to refusing to let a man come between her and her food, to making Josh work for her help and I loved that she never took no for an answer. She was confident, hilarious, and impossible not to root for.

This was my first experience with this series reading Marie, and I am officially a fan. She has created such a fun, engaging world filled with unforgettable characters. The banter and wit in this book are some of the best I've read in a long time, and I can't wait to see what comes next in the series!

[Misty • booksplusplants · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 I’m so obsessed with everything Marie writes. I had the best time reading this. Grumpy MMC x bratty FMC is literally written for me. I’m gonna eat that up everyyyyy time. The banter and chapter titles alone were giving me life.

Graciella was strong, sassy, determined… I loved her. She basically gave herself the job of fixing Monroe’s image, and I love that! She wasn’t taking no for an answer. Not like Monroe could say no to her anyway. This man was down so bad. He fake dates Graciella’s friend and that was a fun little twist on a fake dating plot. Definitely added some tension!

I loooved Monroe’s daughter, Goldie! She was so spunky and cute. I love how he totally embraced being a girl dad and never dulled her sparkle. Immediately, Gracie clicked with Goldie and their relationship was so sweet.

The banger, the chapter titles, the down bad daddy, the strong and sassy FMC, the cute little girl… literally perfect. I need more immediately!

If you haven’t read a book by Marie yet, seriously, what are you doing???

ARC review

💚Grumpy x Brat
💚Hockey romance
💚Single dad
💚Age gap
💚One bed
💚Slow burn
💚Fake dating (but not with her)

[Betty Wong · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a huge hockey romance fan. This was my first book by this author and happy to have taken that leap.
Josh and Graciella’s story was filled with great banter, two very hot headed MCs and truly great chemistry too.
The book has a slow burn start, with a very dramatic Graciella but I had to love her because her resilience and strength is a huge part of her personality. And I love that for the female character.
Then there’s Josh and who is a sweetheart disguised as a grump. He is so absolutely opposed to have anything to do with Graciella - and yet here we are!
I love that he falls so hard. And it’s fun to see! When the feelings hit him, oh the chapters start to fly! I was devouring this book so fast.
I love that Latina representation; something that is very personal to me as a Latina. It makes me feel connected in a different way to the story. Absolutely fun and entertaining book and will definitely be reading more by Marie Maravilla!

[Crystal LoCicero · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“My daughter may be my sun.” Another kiss, soft against my lips. “But you are my moon. And I don’t want to live my life without you both in it.”


This is book 2 in a series of standalones, but I am a chaos monster and read out of order. This is actually my first book by this author. I loved it so much I will be reading her past books.

This book is about serious, grumpy single dad who is also a NHL coach. He is having some work/image problems. And the fmc enters into his life with fun messineness with determination to fix his image while securing herself a job. They are so different and yet the chemisty is off thw charts. So the fmc makes the mmc fake dates her bff. I know crazy right?!?!? This story is so unique and fun.

Some of my favorite parts were the notes between the chapters. The mmc's were notes in his app and the the fmc's were post its. I loved them they were so funny.

I consider this a slow burn because they are mostly talk and avoidance for the 1st half, but once the spice hit it was hot. I love a man that will crawl and be a good boy.

A surprise favorite part was the fmc bff. I loved her she was so sweet and has such a good story that I am so excited to read(when it comes out).

This was a cute family building story and the kid parts were so sweet. Monica was hilarious, and the swoons factor was high.

Overall, this was such a fun read. I lol'd so much. I will continue with this series as it comes out.

I received this book as an ARC, but the review is completely independent and reflects my own genuine thoughts, feelings, and opinions.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a cute, sass-filled romance. I love Graciella! She's an FMC that I would want to get boozy brunch with. And Josh?! He brings zaddy energy with every single interaction!

What to expect:
- Fierce AF FMC
- Mexicana
- Coach MMC
- Grumpy x sunshine
- Single dad


This was such fun, fast paced read. I love Marie Maravilla's writing because the banter is HILARIOUS and honestly, so relatable. Yes, some of the situations are a bit wild, but it also somehow seems so real. The characters are so lovable and layered.

If you want a good romance with an absolute ZADDY. The way his girls are literally number one in everything. And how he instantly gives protector energy?! Yeah, that'll do!

4.5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️

[Yvonne Ptk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Face Off with Fate was such a fun and heartwarming read! Marie Maravilla has done it again, and I’m loving the A Scoring Chance series more with every book. 😍

Gracie and Josh completely won me over. Their chemistry was amazing, the grumpy x sunshine dynamic was everything, and I loved watching their relationship grow. Add in the single dad storyline, plenty of banter, and all the hockey vibes, and I was hooked from beginning to end.

One of my favorite parts of the book had to be Gracie’s diary entries and Josh’s Notes app entries. They were absolutely hilarious and had me laughing out loud more than once. 😂 It was such a fun and unique way to get a glimpse into their thoughts.

This series just keeps getting better, and I honestly can’t recommend it enough to anyone who loves sports romance. Every book has been a joy to read and I can’t wait for the next one!

Thanks for the ARC!

[Sheridan Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so drawn to this book because I love the fake dating/PR relationship trope. But I loved that he is in a fake relationship with another woman and she’s the PR person managing it. It gives this trope a whole new unique spin. And I devoured this story.

This is my first Maria Maravilla book and I instantly fell in love how she injects humor into almost every single scene. But she also honored the moments and scenes that are tender and heartfelt and deep and vulnerable. There was a perfect balance, and I was able to enjoy it thoroughly without feeling like my emotions were flopping or questioning the authenticity of the moment.

The chemistry and tension between Graciella and Monroe was palpable, and I loved how they interacted with each other (the banter and flirting!) and being able to get inside their heads. And I absolutely love the treat we get of seeing excerpts of Graciella diary, as well as Monroe’s Down Bad Daddy notes. And the sweet moments with Goldie and Graciella captured my heart and solidified that they are meant to be together, all three of them as a unit. You cannot persuade me otherwise.

[Lyla Nadeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

What’s hotter than a grumpy single daddy?! A badass woman who makes him beg for it. The authors writing has a way of taking a lighthearted and funny story have not only an actual plot but depth and growth in characters and an emotional backstory, it’s not just another sports romance. I really enjoyed their story and they are sooo hot even though it’s a bit of a slow burn. I love the strong empowered woman as well! Definitely recommend!

[Isabel Jarnow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to House of Hearts for the ARC!

Josh Monroe is the coach of the Stanley cup winning team, and Graciella becomes his new PR manager.

Josh is a single dad who was burned by the league and is now guarded and grumpy. He needs an image revamp, and Graciella is just the one for the job.

The banter in this was so good, and I loved seeing the characters' journeys to open themselves up after they've been burned.

Tropes:
Single dad
Age gap
Fake dating
Grumpy mmc
One bed