Cage

Arc Review!

This was such a cute, feel good, sometimes emotional read that just made my heart so happy. If you love single dad, dogs, and a lovable friend group, this one will make your heart happy!!

I absolutely loved Owen, Gina, and Maddie. The sweet, laughable moments in this book just made me love everything about their story. This one had the tension & chemistry, but the add emotional aspects just tugged at my heart strings!!

I cannot wait to see what comes next for this series!!

Hope

39 reviews3 followers

I really enjoyed this swoon-worthy, super cute hockey romance meets Best in Show story!

Owen is a widowed hockey player and devoted dad to the most adorable little girl. When he meets Gina—a professional dog handler with a huge heart for fostering—sparks fly in the sweetest way.

This book is full of love, laughter, and closed-door spicy moments that still bring all the tension. If you love roommates-to-lovers, hockey romance, and an FMC who is completely obsessed with dogs, this one will steal your heart.
I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Bradford series! 🐾💙

Brandy Dunigan

56 reviews

January 8, 2026

Thank you to Tia and Grey’s Promotions for this ARC.

Reading Cage is like Miss Tia Louise said,”How about I emotionally wreck you a little bit?” and I said “okay, and I’ll love it.”

Cage is a broody, closed off, and clearly allergic to feelings which makes him peak book boyfriend material. Duh. This man is walking emotional damage, and watching him fight his feelings while clearly down bad was my personal entertainment. Gina deserved a gold medal (or hazard pay) for her patience because I would’ve snapped way sooner.

The emotional depth of both Cage and Gina, he’ll even Maddie, surprised me in the best way, and the romance felt earned instead of rushed, which I always appreciate.

If you enjoy wounded heroes, soft moments hidden under layers of grump, and muttering “sir, be serious” at your book, Cage will happily lock you in.

Amanda Kintner

567 reviews8 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

Im obsessed with this second generation group. Maddie was so cute and I loved her connection with GiGi. I couldn't remember the age gap between Owen and Gigi but honestly, it wasnt even a factor. Their connection was pure and happened without force. I loved them!

lucialeelibros

441 reviews19 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance)

e-ARC review!!!

tia, idk what you put in your books but this one? was a perfection.

I loved every second and I'm so happy this book was my first of the 2026!!!!

2026-arc

2,160 reviews75 followers

Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers

age-gap contemporary-love sports-puckery

It almost seems a crime that this series is called The New Bradfords because so far Tia has been pulling out fabulous second gens from across her other binge-worthy series and I am loving it!!!!

Owen Stone was an absolute scene stealer when he was just a boy following his dad around in A Little Taste and well...I guess not much has changed. 😏 Owen may have grown up, but he's now all swoony, 🥵 especially when he's in dad mode with his sweet daughter.😍 Cage is another fabulous book, with all the feels, big family get together's, that don't take away from the main characters, touching moments, lots of love, and of course the right dash of steam.

Owen is still that sweet little boy who always followed his dad, Aiden, around and loved zebras. I don’t know how the Stone family makes single dads so hot, but wow! Just drool-worthy, wow! Owen learned a lot about loving hard from growing up with his amazing family and I thank them for their service.❤️ With that being said, he's also one hot hockey player and a single dad with super high emotional walls. 🥹 So while Owen is allllll grown up and super swoony, he wasn't looking for anything while he settled into his new life in LA, but it just so happened that life doesn't always work out like you planned. Thankfully, his hound, Ladybird, had the hots for Gigi's dog and was way smarter than their owners. 😏

As for his daughter, Maddie, she is the cat's pajama's, or maybe I should say, the zebra's stripes. 😏 She adds the perfect sweetness to this entire story, which would seem impossible when there are dogs...seriously, there are so many amazing dogs, but then there is Maddie...who is so freakin adorable. 🫠 I mean could Tia just melt me more. Seriously, I was a constant pile of goo!! Maddie has her dad's zebra to add to this combination of cuteness!! Maddie is everything that is glittered butterflies, sparkly rainbows, and magical unicorns and I couldn't love her more!! 🥹😍💗

I don't want to say that Gigi rounded out the adorableness or the hotness factor, because she has her own inner light, but she is also put together. She brings calm and peace to this rowdy bunch, which is not often easy especially when her dad is the rowdiest one of his brothers. Gigi is also sweet, level headed, smart, she's the best of her mom and dad and those traits were a shiny bright beacon for Owen and Maddie. She's hard not to love., but did I expect anything less, not for a minute. She is exactly what those two need, in both of their lives, and they feel that draw instantly.

Now, don't even get me started on the meshing of two of my favorite series coming together. ❤️👌🥰 I mean, how many times can a girl squeal!?! Please...this story just kept getting better and better. And just when I thought this series was already amazingly good...the mention of Mavericks love interest hit. I mean...come on...that news just about sent me into a kicking and screaming-love-induced coma. 🥹😍💗 I'M SO EXCITED!!!!

❤️Soooooo.....don't miss Cage!!! It's amazing!😉

Cigi cini

681 reviews49 followers

Review of advance copy

🏒 Hockey Romance
👨‍👧 Single Dad Hero
🖤 Broody Hero
🐶 Dog Lovers
🏠 Roommates to Lovers
🔥 Forced Proximity
🛏️ One Bed
💥 “Just Once”
💞 Slow Burn Romance
✨ Found Family
❤️‍🔥 Spicy Romance
🤍 No Cheating
🎉 No Third-Act Breakup

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cage by Tia Louise, book two in The New Bradfords series, is a beautifully layered hockey romance that combines heartfelt emotion, strong character development, and a comforting sense of inevitability. From the very first pages, the story establishes a tone that feels both grounded and romantic, where fate nudges rather than shoves, often with the help of a stubborn bloodhound and a towel-stealing poodle. The humor woven through the narrative softens the emotional weight and makes the world feel lived-in, warm, and inviting.

Owen Stone is a standout hero whose appeal lies in his quiet steadiness. As a single father and professional hockey player adjusting to a last-minute trade, his life is in constant motion, yet his priorities never waver. His devotion to his daughter and his fierce loyalty to his family give his character depth and credibility. Rather than leaning on the typical alpha-athlete swagger, Owen’s strength comes from resilience, responsibility, and the hard-earned belief that survival sometimes has to come before desire. Watching him slowly open himself to the idea of love is both tender and rewarding.

Gina Bradford is a heroine who feels confident without being flashy, driven without being closed off. Her dedication to her career and her dogs reflects her need for structure and independence, especially after past hurts. She is compassionate, capable, and quietly vulnerable, making her emotional journey just as engaging as Owen’s. The connection between them unfolds through shared living space, mutual respect, and small moments that build trust. Their chemistry simmers rather than explodes, creating a slow-burn romance that feels authentic and deeply satisfying.

The supporting cast elevates the story even further. Owen’s daughter adds a layer of emotional truth that grounds the romance, while his psychic sister brings warmth, humor, and an element of gentle destiny. The dogs are more than comic relief, acting as emotional catalysts who push the characters toward honesty and connection. The romance thrives on intimacy rather than angst, avoiding unnecessary conflict and focusing instead on healing, communication, and choosing vulnerability. Cage ultimately delivers a love story that is comforting, passionate, and emotionally fulfilling, proving that sometimes the strongest bonds are formed when you stop running and allow yourself to be found.

arc

Jenn

751 reviews15 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

January 10, 2026

Tia Louise isn't playing around with this New Bradfords series- because just like Haddy and Gavin's book, Gina "Gigi" Bradford and Owen Stone are bringing together the second generation of two series and connecting worlds in all the best ways!

Cage is the second book in this new series and it's bringing together a ton of fabulous tropes including- single dad, professional hockey player, roommates to lovers, one bed-one night, forced proximity and of course all the meddling of family, friends and even their dogs! So much of this story had a perma-smile on my face- just like the OG Bradfords, I love the closeness that Gigi, Haddy and Maverick have. They're not only cousins but each others biggest supporters, sh*t stirrers and best friends. And just like his mama, Maverick loves to welcome others- mainly his teammates that need a friend- into their world, and well, could you blame Haddy or Gigi for falling for the pro-hockey players that look at them like they hung the moon?

Now I will give it to Owen- he actually started off with great intentions of not acting on his attraction toward Gigi because he's a single father and only interested in being there for his daughter. Similarly Gigi, is focused on her career and not giving a guy the opportunity to break her heart again. Only Lady Bird and Spanky seemed pretty keen on keeping these two bumping into each other in the most hilariously awkward and erotically charged ways. Tia definitely brought some lighthearted fun mixed with a lot of heart into this story and I was hooked in all the best ways.

I really loved that not only are we getting this budding attraction and relationship between Gigi and Owen but the way that Tia tied in so many little "easter eggs" from their parents books for people like me that have read and loved them all but also a little tease for someone new that might have to go back and check them out. I loved the Bradford bachelor night traditions and the mystical kind of nod to Owen's family.

Now I do slightly disagree that there is no third act break up here- because while technically I guess Owen and Gigi do not "break up" there definitely is the dreaded miscommunication and heartbreak followed by the need to grovel and pull out the grand gesture train so to me that felt like one. But as long as it all works out in the end I also don't mind it all that much 🤪 But mainly I am already dying to get my hands on the next book in this series because if it's about to be Maverick I CANNOT wait to see how that goofy sweet man falls!!

Sarah

93 reviews

Review of advance copy

January 9, 2026

ARC Review- I received this book for free for my honest review.

This book is a STEM FMC/Widowed-Single dad hockey romance with some rom-com feels.

The book had fleshed out characters whom we all very likeable. The story is cute, there is low angst, and a satisfying happy ending.

This story missed the mark for me and I admit rom-coms aren’t usually something I pick up. But for the sake of this review I’m not considering that toward my rating.

I liked the premise, a cynogist, dog show judge, groomer with a show poodle living with her NHL childhood friend falls for his teammate widowed, single dad with a family bloodhound who is devoted to his 7 y/o daughter. The dogs fall in love, the MC’s fall in love, the daughter loves everyone.

I did feel like the pacing of the story was a little slow and at times I wasn’t sure when anything was going to actually happen.
The actual relationship drama was kinda blown out of proportion in my opinion but that’s how it is with rom-coms.
There were a lot of characters in this story and I felt at times that the MC’s story didn’t shine as much as it should have. That said I loved the banter between everyone. It felt really genuine and not forced at all. Everyone really cares about each other and there was just enough meddling without it being cringy. Maddie the daughter was adorable and acted like a 7 y/o and wasn’t just a plot device for the relationship.

My favorite parts of this book were the full family banter that felt realistic, full of teasing love, and lots of emotional support. Also I love the bachelor party dancers. I also liked Owen’s Dads advice. Really solid there.

Parts that didn’t work for me was the relationship drama (I dont mind it, it needs to be in romance stories, but i didn’t like how it was in this particular story). I also felt like the MC’s got the same page time as everyone else did and that they weren’t the main focus of this book. I feel like they should’ve had more of the spotlight.

Overall I liked the story, I liked all the characters, I would recommend Cage to people who enjoy a full cast of characters getting page time, lots of banter, healthy relationships, smart women, and on page hockey.

Kirsty

414 reviews8 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

January 3, 2026

I inhaled this book. Like, stayed-up-too-late, “just one more chapter,” emotionally attached levels of inhaled. Cage absolutely wrecked me in the softest, swooniest, dog-hair-covered way and I loved every second of it 🐶💖

Owen Stone??? BROODY SINGLE DAD HOCKEY PLAYER PERFECTION. Six-foot-two, exhausted, devoted father, quietly carrying the weight of the world while trying to give his daughter a stable home? I was done for immediately. He’s not flashy or cocky—he’s steady, protective, and so deeply good it hurts. The kind of man who shows up. Every time.

And Gina Bradford is such a refreshing FMC. Tall, confident, dog-obsessed, emotionally guarded, and absolutely not looking for love. Her entire life revolving around dogs (champion groomer! judge! towel-thieving poodle!) made me adore her instantly. She’s soft without being weak, kind without being naive, and her connection with Owen’s daughter melted my actual heart.

The DOGS though. The dogs were the real matchmakers here and I will hear no arguments. Fated-mate energy, leash-dragging destiny, chaotic good behavior forcing these two together? Obsessed. Add in roommates-to-lovers, forced proximity, one bed, “just once” lies we all know are lies, and I was GONE.

The romance felt so natural. No unnecessary drama, no third-act breakup (bless), just two hurt people carefully choosing each other while building a chosen family. The psychic sister, the charity calendar, the highway accident, the quiet domestic moments—every piece just layered the love deeper and deeper.

And the spice?? Whew. Perfectly balanced. Hot but emotional. Intimate without being over-the-top. The kind that makes you grin and clutch the book to your chest.

This story wasn’t loud—it was warm, safe, and deeply satisfying. A love that grows, that includes a child, that makes room for healing. Cage isn’t about being trapped—it’s about finding a home when you didn’t even realize you were still looking for one.

I inhaled Owen and Gina’s story and I would happily do it again. If you love hockey romance with heart, dogs, single dads, found family, and a romance that feels like a deep exhale—read this immediately 🏒🐾💗

Flex Fler

50 reviews6 followers

Thanks to The Author Agency and Tia Louise for the free ARC. All opinions are my own in the following ARC Review.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Hockey Romance
Tropes: Roommates To Lovers, Single Dad, STEM Heroine, Age Gap, Close Proximity, Jealousy, Miscommunication, Groveling
MC: Gina (FMC), Owen (MMC)
Setting: Los Angeles
Triggers: referenced spousal death, ghosting
Epilogue: Yes

Synopsis: Gina’s life shifts when Owen, a new hockey player on her cousin’s team, needs a temporary home. He moves in with Gina, her cousin, and his dog, sparking an undeniable chemistry they both try to ignore. When her car breaks down, Owen steps in to help, resulting in a shared hotel room, and an unforgettable night that changes everything. However, a surprise visit from Owen’s daughter, Maddie, and his sister pulls them back to reality, but also draws Gina deeper into Owen’s world. Even when a major misunderstanding creates distance, their bond proves impossible to shake. Owen offers a heartfelt apology, leading to a bold proposal of choosing love over hesitation, and finally claiming the future they both tried not to want.

Thoughts: This was such a fun and cute read! I feel like every little detail added to the book’s charm and cuteness, from the dogs and quirky family traditions, to the lovable side characters and romantic moments. Owen and Gina both had some internal struggles to overcome, and I’m glad they did because they were perfect for each other. After their relationship growing pains, Gina and Owen were incredibly open and ready to give their all into a future life together. Though I did think Gina should have made Owen grovel a bit more after coming back, since he completely ghosted her for days. Also, I loved how Maddie immediately embraced Gina as her mother figure. I think they are going to have an incredible bond moving forward. The mushroom scene was pretty hilarious too. I’m just happy it caused some much needed clarity, instead of some bad potential repercussions. Tia again teased us with some future easter eggs, which I’m always excited for. Highly looking forward to reading Maverick’s story next, and how he manages another new roommate.

Tara

68 reviews1 follower

4.5 Stars

Owen Stone is the kind of MMC who doesn’t need to be loud to be unforgettable. He’s a broody single-dad NHL player, a widower, and a man who has spent seven years surviving instead of living after losing his wife in childbirth. His entire world revolves around his daughter, Maddie, and the guilt he feels about even wanting more was raw, relatable, and beautifully handled. Owen isn’t flashy or cocky. He’s steady, protective, and deeply good. The kind of man who shows up, every single time.

Gina Bradford was such a refreshing FMC. She’s tall, confident, dog-obsessed, emotionally guarded, and very much not looking for love. Her life revolves around dogs (champion groomer, judge, towel-stealing poodle included), and her independence paired with her quiet vulnerability made her easy to root for. One of my favorite parts of the story was watching her relationship with Maddie grow. It added so much warmth to the romance.

The connection between Owen and Gina unfolds naturally through roommates-to-lovers proximity, forced proximity, one bed after a roadside rescue, and dogs who are clearly convinced they are fated mates and will not take no for an answer. The chemistry simmers instead of explodes, making the payoff incredibly satisfying. When they finally give in, the spice is perfectly balanced—hot, emotional, and intimate without being over the top.

What really stood out was the way Tia Louise handled grief and healing. Owen’s internal struggle with moving on while still honoring his late wife felt thoughtful and respectful, explored through conversations with his dad, tarot cards, and even an unexpectedly hilarious mushroom scene that somehow still delivered emotional clarity. There’s no unnecessary drama here—just two hurt people choosing vulnerability, communication, and love. And bonus points for no messy third-act breakup.

Cage is warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It’s about found family, second chances, and discovering that home can look different than you expected. If you love hockey romance with heart, single dads, dogs, and a love story that feels like a deep exhale, this one is absolutely worth the read.

Alexia Gauthier

118 reviews7 followers

arcs forced-proximity hockey-romance

When the heart breaks free from the cage 🏒🐾

5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️

Cage by Tia Louise completely caught me off guard. This was my first book by the author and let me just say: I devoured it. Absolutely ate it up. If this is the energy of The New Bradfords series, I’m already running back for book one.

This story gives us Gina Bradford, a whirlwind FMC who lives her life at full speed. She’s ambitious, fiercely independent, obsessed with dogs (same), and juggling more roles than feels humanly possible; all while swearing she’s done with love. Gina is vibrant, funny, and guarded in a way that feels achingly real.

Enter Owen Stone: broody, emotionally reserved, six-foot-two NHL player energy with a heart that’s been shattered and rebuilt around his young daughter. A single dad and widower, Owen isn’t looking for anything except stability, safety, and a place to land after a last-minute trade. Romance? Not on the roster.

And yet… proximity has a funny way of cracking walls.

Their connection unfolds naturally, no rush, no forced drama, just two wounded people circling each other, learning how to trust again. The character growth here is beautiful. Watching Gina and Owen slowly lower their defenses, piece by piece, felt raw and earned. When they collide? Sparks fly. The tension simmers, the banter flows effortlessly, and when the spice hits… chef’s kiss. Perfectly placed, hot without overshadowing the emotional core.

Add in dogs with matchmaking agendas, a found family vibe, and conversations that feel intimate and real, and this book delivers on every level. It’s heartfelt, sexy, funny, and deeply comforting, without unnecessary angst or gimmicks. Bonus points for no cheating, no cliffhanger, and no third-act breakup. Bless.

A 5-star read that hit exactly where it needed to.
Huge thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Tia Louise on her upcoming release (January 15th). I’ll absolutely be diving into her backlist, and whatever she writes next.

If you love broody single dads, roommates-to-lovers, forced proximity, chosen family, and dogs who know what’s up, Cage deserves a spot on your TBR. 💙

Miancka

206 reviews4 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Some authors just get you, and Tia Louise is absolutely one of them. As a long-time fan, I flew into this book… and didn’t come up for air until the last page.

Cage is one of those stories where fate doesn’t knock politely. It sends a bloodhound, a broody hockey player, and a leash that pulls everything into place. And honestly? I loved every second.

Owen Stone is not your typical hockey hero. Yes, he’s tall, strong, and devastatingly handsome, but what truly makes him irresistible is his heart. A devoted single dad trying to build a safe, loving life for his daughter, his psychic sister, and his very good boy of a bloodhound. His quiet strength, protectiveness, and emotional depth made him impossible not to fall for.

Gina Bradford is equally wonderful. Confident, kind, and completely obsessed with dogs rather than love, she felt refreshingly real. Her connection with animals, her independence, and her gentle vulnerability balanced Owen perfectly. Watching her slowly open her heart was beautiful.

And the dogs. The DOGS. Their fated-mates energy was pure joy and added so much warmth and humor. Forced proximity, roommates-to-lovers, one bed, “just once”… every trope landed perfectly without ever feeling overdone.

One of my favorite parts was the subtle brilliance of Tia Louise’s world-building. The inclusion of Dove was that perfect if you know, you know moment that longtime readers will appreciate so deeply. Those small details made the story feel richer and more connected, like a quiet nod just for us.

The romance itself is tender, spicy, and deeply emotional. No unnecessary drama. No third-act heartbreak. Just two people who’ve been hurt choosing courage, trust, and love anyway. Owen’s daughter and sister added layers of found family that made everything feel full and whole.

Cage is about love that shows up when you least expect it. About choosing something real over staying guarded. About building a home that feels safe, warm, and earned.

I laughed, swooned, melted, and absolutely devoured this book. Tia Louise delivered another heartfelt, addictive romance that reminded me exactly why I’m such a fan 🐶✨💙

Cat

2,193 reviews1 follower

What an adorable story !!..
Wow I think Tia Louise's writing gets better with every book she puts out there..
There is so much to love about Owen and Gina's romance and Tia's writing is perfection,enticing you until the very last page.
Owen Stone is a Hockey player,a widow and a dad to a cutesy little girl Maddie..I Loved him he is such a devoted father.He is trying to settle into his new hockey team and to be there for his daughter,he also needs a place to live.His teammate and Gina's cousin suggests him moving in with him and Gina.
Gina is a dog lover and her life revolves around dogs,she is a judge at dog shows and she is not looking for love.Because of a past relationship she has some issues and insecurities about relationships,I do love the bond she makes with Maddie.
There is sexual tension and chemistry between them it is evident,but Owen is afraid of moving on after the death of his wife,Gina also has her reservations...But one night of passion they share is hard to ignore,even when they do try to ignore what happened.
Fate has other ideas and won't let them deny their connection,because they are an ideal match like two jigsaw pieces fitting together in the best of ways.
The side characters are fabulous too and add something even more special to this book.
Cage is a story that will charm you,make you swoon and want to cry and laugh..Owen and Gina are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy and I loved every minute of reading it.
I am Loving the second generation of Bradfords and can't wait for more.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
5 wonderful Stars.

Carolyn

1,117 reviews29 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

adorable-kid age-gap alpha-male

Cage is the 2nd book in the hockey romance series of The New Bradfords by Tia Louise. Second Generation, hockey, roommates, forced proximity, single Dad, one bed and just once are a few of the tropes in this small town book. There are dogs, an adorable little girl, interconnecting previous characters, no cheating, no third act breakup and a HEA that makes this book feel life like. The tease of the next book main characters was definitely a bonus and us fans will be counting down the days until it's released!

I would like to Thank Grey's Promotions and Tia Louise for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.

Gina Grace Bradford "GiGi" is a dog groomer and dog show judge who lives with her cousin. Her cousin just invited his new teammate and his bloodhound to live with them.

Owen Stone moved up from the minor league to the NHL and he and Lady Bird moved first before he sends for his sister and daughter.

Gina doesn't trust easily after she's been ghosted one to many times but her new roommate and his dog fit right in.

Owen lost his wife seven years ago and doesn't believe he will ever find love again so he's dedicated to being a great dad.

Gina's car has broke down and only Owen is available to help her out. But the roads are blocked and a stay in a hotel room with one bed leads to "just once" and then his little girl has arrived and his can't date excuse ensues.

Roommates and family know they belong together but will they let down their close held guards long enough to step out of the "Cage" they've kept themselves in?

Camilla

62 reviews

✨ ARC Book Review: Cage by Tia Louise ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Single dad. Professional hockey player. One “no-strings” night that was never going to be just one. 👀💥

Cage is a heartfelt, feel-good romance that blends single-dad sweetness, forced proximity, and found-family vibes so effortlessly. Owen Stone is everything you want in a book boyfriend — protective, devoted to his seven-year-old daughter Maddie, and completely unprepared for the chaos that is Gina Bradshaw.

When Owen temporarily moves in with his teammate and Gina (the cousin with a big heart, a demanding job as a champion dog groomer, and a poodle named Spanky), sparks fly instantly. They agree to one night to get it out of their system… but let’s be honest — we all knew that plan wouldn’t last.

Between late-night chemistry, emotional slow burns, and the adorable side plot of Spanky being obsessed with Owen’s bloodhound Ladybird 🐶❤️, this story delivers both laughs and heart. Watching Owen balance fatherhood, hockey, and falling in love is genuinely touching, and Maddie completely steals the show.

Cage is cozy, romantic, and emotionally satisfying without being heavy — the kind of book that leaves you smiling when you close it. If you love single-dad romances, sports heroes with soft hearts, and “one night turns into everything” stories, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.

📅 Release date: January 15, 2026
Trust me — you’re going to want this one.

#Cage #TiaLouise #HockeyRomance #SingleDadRomance #ARC review

Stephanie

99 reviews1 follower

Continuing with the next generation of the Bradfords, this series follows Gina, a dog-obsessed show dog handler who has been deeply hurt by past relationships. Her reluctance about love is honestly incredibly relatable, especially in today’s hookup culture, where meaningful connections can feel fleeting and ghosting after sexy times occurs.

Enter Owen Stone, a single-dad widower who has all but closed the door on love after losing his wife. His parents are from A Little Taste, and he plays hockey with Maverick and Gavin, bringing him straight into the Bradford world.

When Owen moves into Maverick and Gina’s place while searching for a home for himself, his daughter, and his sister, sparks fly almost immediately. But everything shifts when Gina meets Owen’s daughter—suddenly, what felt like attraction starts to feel like possibility. Albeit, a very scary possibility.

As things begin to fall into place, both Gina and Owen must confront what’s holding them back: her deep-rooted insecurities from past heartbreak and his lingering grief. Their journey is raw, emotional, but not overwhelmingly so, and ultimately about learning that love can still exist after loss—if you’re gutsy enough to let it in. Knowing the Bradfords and their pepper habits, you’ve got to have guts of steel with this family.

Sara

2,361 reviews14 followers

January 9, 2026

Another sweet and fun book in the Bradford’s Second Generation.

Gigi is dog-obsessed and not looking for love after some disappointing dating situations. When her cousin Maverick invited his new teammate, Owen, to temporarily move into the house Gigi felt an immediate attraction to the sexy, single dad, dog dad and professional hockey player. Despite the intent to resist, life just seemed to have a plan to put these two together.

Owen’s backstory rang bells with me, and I was pleasantly surprised to realize I had read his dad & step mom’s romance a few years ago. I love when an author weaves books together and gives readers a chance to see what happened next.

Owen & Gigi are sweet together, and little Maddie added to the fun factor. The romance is a pretty cheery read despite Owen being a widower. I enjoyed his family’s brief appearances, and of course I loved the Bradford bunch!

As much as I’m enjoying the next generation, I miss the close family dynamic from the original series. The cousins are seemingly spread out around the country except for Hardy, Gigi and Maverick. I wish we had more interactions with the cousins to build up the familiarity before their books.

I’m so looking forward to Maverick’s story.

I received a free ARC from the author and Grey’s PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

Krystal

849 reviews3 followers

Cage is not only a Bradford second generation series but also features second generation for the Be Still series. Owen is the son of Aiden, the hero in A Little Taste. It took a second to figure it out but when I read Eureka- I knew there was another series from there.

Owen is the newest teammate to be the roommate for Maverick and Gina. The forced proximity, plus two matchmaking dogs help Owen and Gina grow closer together. Owen is a single dad to a sweet seven year old that truly melts your heart. Gina and Owen’s story is such a fun read. Their story just flows so smoothly. From the first scene and the grooming mishap to a one bed situation, you just want to keep reading. I just loved the friendship between Ladybird (Owen’s dog) and Spanky (Gina’s dog).

There are so many good moments in Cage— the dog moments, the family moments (both Owen’s and Gina’s), and to all the steamy moments. Cage makes me want to reread their origin stories, A Little Taste (Owen) and The Way We Score (Gina), all over again!

Thank you Grey’s Promotions for the advance reader copy. I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.

Lisa Hemming

1,013 reviews18 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

I love The New Bradfords series by Tia Louise because it lets us in on how the children of the Bradford siblings are doing now that they are all grown up! Family is still the most important aspect of their lives and the cousins are always there for each other. Gigi Bradford is well known in the dog training and dog show worlds and she lives in southern California with her cousin Maverick, a famous NHL hockey star. Her dog Spanky, a white standard poodle, is her pride and joy and she is also lucky to have her cousin Haddy living just down the street with her fiance and new baby.

The Bradfords seem to have a knack for inviting new friends to live with them. Mav’s newest teammate, Owen Stone, a hot, single dad, needed a place to live while he searched for a new house. Of course, Mav opened his home to him and his dog Ladybird, and that was just the beginning of our story. Gigi and Owen danced around their feelings for each other, their dogs became best friends and the Bradford magic brought happiness to everyone in their world. Owen’s precious daughter, Maddie, fell in love with Gigi, his sister Heather, a psychic, had a vision that he would fall for a “dog lady” and a trip home to Newhope was enjoyed by all. What more could anyone want but true love, a close knit family and a home to call your own? Any book from Ms. Louise is one you will cherish forever because the characters are real, her storylines are full of hope and you are always guaranteed a happy ending!

Sofia Silva

227 reviews4 followers

Review of advance copy

Not every cage is a prison. Some can be everything you need.
Do you believe in fate? Owen and Gina’s story is one that will make you believe.
Owen is a single parent focused on his family and new team. He is caring, attentive and responsible.
Gina is a dog groomer and dog show judge that loves dogs and knows everything about them. She is also caring and guarded.
These two end up living in the same house for a while and everyone, including their dogs, are determined to play matchmaker and see them together.
After one night of passion they go back to acting like nothing is different, which is simply not possible.
Without even realising, Owen and Gina are perfect for each other and complete each other’s lives, but Owen’s past and his responsibility towards his daughter and Gina’s insecurities due to past failed relationships are obstacles not easy to overcome.
Fighting for love isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Cage is a beautiful story about second chances, fate, deep chemistry, support, family and true love. – proof that a deep connection can be real after past traumas.
Tia Louise gives us a romance about inevitability, full of humour, spice, heartfelt moments with emotional depth.
Thank you for the ARC.

Lou Li Reads

480 reviews11 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

January 3, 2026

I am obsessed with the New Bradfords! After following Haddy's story in Book 1 of this new series, I just knew Book 2 was going to be a belter. A stand alone with interconnected characters, and of course this series follows the next gen of Bradfords and all their antics as close cousins growing up together. This is the book of Gigi (Parents are "The Way we Score" book) and single widower dad Owen Stone. He's the latest teammate to the Hockey crew and Mav's newest adoptee to join their shared house. (Mav likes to pick up new housemates like there's no tomorrow) A little forced proximity and a whole load of sizzling hot chemistry with the sweetest cutest dogs thrown in makes for a fantastic read. It's a bit emotional, Poor Owen comes with a teeny tiny bit of baggage and a 7yr old, but shes the coolest kid ever! Loved these two loving on each other, very little angst and drama, and hardly a break worth mentioning - just a little wobble!
I love that this new gen of Bradfords love just as fiercely as all their parents did!

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own

arc_reads

Caylee T.

976 reviews13 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

Gigi & Owen were :: chef’s kiss :: perfect.

She had some heartbreak that left her feeling not enough.

And he had some heartbreak & trauma from losing his wife that left him afraid to move on. Especially when he had his daughter, Maddie, to think about as well.

But one moment was all it took for these two to be wrapped in each other’s orbits & unable to get out.

With Owen, Gigi finally felt seen & felt like she was enough. And for Owen, something about Gigi made him feel alive again. Hopeful again.

But fear has a way of slowing them down & it takes some good old talking to his father to really wrap his head around the fact that he deserves to be happy again after his loss. And if Gigi Mae’s him happy & loves his daughter like he did then he shouldn’t waste it.

I absolutely adored these two together. They worked so well especially since they helped heal one another. But throw in sweet little Maddie & those lovable dogs & it makes this pure perfection.

I am so excited I was able to read this book & I highly recommend it.

Absolutely amazing job! I’m so excited for Maverick’s story next!

Anakalia

1,825 reviews17 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

O.M.G!
I'm not sure this book can be topped. Gina and Owen's story is everything you could want in a fantastic love story, and so. Much. More!
I snorted with laughter, swooned so hard I almost melted into a puddle, cried ugly tears, and was moved to my core — and everything in between. This book has ALL the feels.
There are no words to adequately describe the flood of emotions that washed over me while reading this phenomenal story.
Owen and Gina are a match made in heaven … more than perfect for each other … and I love them plus Owen's adorable daughter Maddie plus the dogs to bits. The occasional mayhem caused by the dogs, the teasing between the Bradford cousins, and the teammates' banter had me laughing so hard I was afraid I would … well, you can guess what … myself.
On the other hand, there were so many moments when I had tears in my eyes because the scenes were just so touching …
There's no better book to start the new year with, that's for sure, because in my humble opinion, this is perhaps the best book Ms. Louise has written so far, and I can't praise her artistry in writing such authentic stories highly enough!

Carys Elaine Taylor

85 reviews2 followers

Review of advance copy received from Publisher

Thank you so much for greys promotions and Tia Louise for this arc.

I dont even know what to say apart from Gina and Owen have just become my favourite Tia Louise couple.

Gina is a professional dog judge who knows all about dog and there breeds she has a poodle named spanky 🤣🤣🤣.

Owen is Gina's cousins new team mate who is also a single dad because his wife died.

Ownes psychic sister said hed meet the women of his dreams and she'd be holding a dog blow and behold the first time he meets Gina shes holding a dog.

I loved everything about this book the pull towards each other the feeling of they just cant get enough of each was just incredible and swoon worthy.

Owen struggles quiet alot for different reason but he adorable little girl is the most important person in his life and she kinda helpd push Owen towards Gina.

id rate the spice in this book 🌶🌶🌶 there was so really good spicy scenes especially the first one 😉 I wish there was more but saying that I also feel like it fit with story as well.

Thank you once again for allowing me to read this book

Stacy

61 reviews3 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

Cage is book #2 in the New Bradfords series, which follows the next generation of cousins from the original Bradford Boys books. This story centers on Gina (Gigi) Bradford and Owen Stone—two people who very much are not looking for love.

It took me a few chapters to realize that Owen is from the Be Still series and is Aidan’s son, which made this such a fun surprise! Kudos to Tia for seamlessly incorporating this crossover and giving us the chance to revisit familiar faces from both the Bradford and Stone families.

I absolutely loved this sweet, heartfelt storyline. Between the widowed single-dad hockey player, the roommates-to-lovers dynamic, the found family vibes, and the cutest canine bonus love story, this book checked so many of my favorite boxes. The romance felt warm and genuine, and I’m really enjoying getting to know this new generation of Bradfords.

I can’t wait for Mav’s book!

Special thanks to the author and Grey's Promotions for providing an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.

HaveToReadNow

107 reviews3 followers

Review of advance copy

January 10, 2026

If you had told me I would read a hockey romance, I would have laughed so hard, but Tia Louise has me hooked on her New Bradfords Series. Cage is book 2 in the series. There's a new guy on the team, and he needs a place to stay. Of course, Maverick invites Owen Stone to stay with him and his cousin, Gina, since Haddy is now living across the street. Maverick assures him that they have plenty of space for him, his Bloodhound, and his seven year old daughter and younger sister. This whole series reminds me of some of the older sitcoms-the ones you can easily watch even if you've missed some episodes. The story flows smoothly without need for recaps, or extensive backstories. Tia Louise crafts books that can easily be read as stand alone book-her characters are fun and each book is a complete HEA, but since they appear in a series you do know more about them. So, read Cage now, then I'm sure you'll want to read Pinch (Gavin & Haddy's book), then circle back for the older Bradfords in her Bradford Boys series.

ARC provided by Grey's Promotions-opinions are my own

must-read-top-1

Shanna Gilbert

312 reviews21 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author