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The Heart Connection #3
Hard Hearts
Frankie
I’ve got no time for men and not much use for them either. I’m busy with my friends, my career, and my family. Some may call it hard-hearted, but I prefer smart. I’m on the verge of closing a deal of a lifetime and no famous quarterback trying to make his rehab time go by faster is going to convince me to give up being single.
Kaden
Even though I throw a football for a living, I know a good thing when I see it. Frankie Lodato is the whole smart, funny, and a total smoke show. While I hate that I’m spending my off season recovering from rotator cuff surgery, the bright side is that I have all the time in the world to woo Frankie. She’s a hard nut to crack, but a small town boy doesn’t get to be a star football player without overcoming every tough challenge I’ve ever faced.
I’ve got no time for men and not much use for them either. I’m busy with my friends, my career, and my family. Some may call it hard-hearted, but I prefer smart. I’m on the verge of closing a deal of a lifetime and no famous quarterback trying to make his rehab time go by faster is going to convince me to give up being single.
Kaden
Even though I throw a football for a living, I know a good thing when I see it. Frankie Lodato is the whole smart, funny, and a total smoke show. While I hate that I’m spending my off season recovering from rotator cuff surgery, the bright side is that I have all the time in the world to woo Frankie. She’s a hard nut to crack, but a small town boy doesn’t get to be a star football player without overcoming every tough challenge I’ve ever faced.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2025
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June 28, 2025(Spoilers below...)
I'm in a reading slump, so maybe that's why I don't feel much about this novella. 🫣 That's on me, obviously. But compared to the previous two books, I'd say this one is probably better. Although I didn't get the "fake" relationship in the beginning or why it has to happen. 🤷♀️
It was a quick read, as usual.
Kaden and Frankie have met in book 1, I think, and it was insta-love for him. But she's not on the same page because she's jaded when it comes to love and men. But Kaden, the bulldozer he is, didn't stop pursuing her. In this book, he crashed her business meeting and made it seem that they were together. He's a famous quarterback, so maybe that's why it worked for him. Anyway, Frankie chose not to correct him and instead went along with his stunt. Since then they started to hang out, and Frankie slowly faced the reality that she's attracted to him as well.
There was a mini drama almost at the end, but it got resolved immediately when Kaden finally got his act together.
There was an epilogue, but it was from the POV of their firstborn; it's probably 20+ years later. We found out that they have two kids, a son and a late-in-life baby girl. They're still in love and blissfully married. Also, I think their son is going to get his own book. 🤔
Book info:
- Novella
- Insta-love/attraction
- Pushing away (FMC)
- Recovery from injury
- "Fake engaged"
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- Dual V! 💖
- HEA (yrs later, married and with 2 kids)
I'm in a reading slump, so maybe that's why I don't feel much about this novella. 🫣 That's on me, obviously. But compared to the previous two books, I'd say this one is probably better. Although I didn't get the "fake" relationship in the beginning or why it has to happen. 🤷♀️
It was a quick read, as usual.
Kaden and Frankie have met in book 1, I think, and it was insta-love for him. But she's not on the same page because she's jaded when it comes to love and men. But Kaden, the bulldozer he is, didn't stop pursuing her. In this book, he crashed her business meeting and made it seem that they were together. He's a famous quarterback, so maybe that's why it worked for him. Anyway, Frankie chose not to correct him and instead went along with his stunt. Since then they started to hang out, and Frankie slowly faced the reality that she's attracted to him as well.
There was a mini drama almost at the end, but it got resolved immediately when Kaden finally got his act together.
There was an epilogue, but it was from the POV of their firstborn; it's probably 20+ years later. We found out that they have two kids, a son and a late-in-life baby girl. They're still in love and blissfully married. Also, I think their son is going to get his own book. 🤔
Book info:
- Novella
- Insta-love/attraction
- Pushing away (FMC)
- Recovery from injury
- "Fake engaged"
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- Dual V! 💖
- HEA (yrs later, married and with 2 kids)
July 9, 2025
no me gustó la actitud de la mamá de ella. estuve "mejor" que los anteriores dos. 🤷🏻♀️
June 27, 2025
I will have quite a few quotes and SPOILERS so I remember the story in future. I did enjoy it and I do recommend it.
Dual virgins!
Safe
No cheating
No separation
No OM/OW
Push by h
No gross condom use
Sort of a stupid third act break up (does not last more than a day if that)
HEA
This is the long awaited story of Frankie a lawyer and Kaden a football quarterback with a rotator cuff injury. He was chasing after her since he met her a month before the story starts. She saw him when she was a younger on TV and had a crush on him. She said she dated a couple times, which I did not like, but it was later explained in the quote below. I don't consider that dating, but I hate that she did especially after she already had a crush on Kaden, even though she hasn't met him back then. That is a part of the story I did not like at all, but nothing intimate happened and it was more of friends hanging out. You be the judge.
Quote,
I haven’t
been on a ton of dates. Hell, only a couple, if I can recall, and they
might not have been full dates but more friends hanging out. Who
knows? They have always been sporty dates to the batting cages or
go-karts. Which isn’t the worst thing. Sure, it can be fun, but men put
me in this box of the tomboy. I know I don’t help with that, but it does
burn.
end quote.
Her first real date was with Kaden and she panicked and ran; he ran after her ever since. She is afraid to open up to be hurt like her mother always is when she dates. Her mother falls in love only to be heartbroken rince and repeat, which is something Frankie actively stays away from. She pushes Kaden away for fear of falling in love only to be hurt, but he is insistent and if she were honest with herself, she already has fallen in love with him. He found an opening where he declared in front of her clients, boss and coworkers at a business dinner that she and he are getting married. She was stunned and unbeknownst to her, he meant it going through getting a ring and planning a wedding. She does not believe a gorgeous man, famous and buff would be interested in her, and that he must be just because she pushes him away so he must like the challenge. He is not the type of man she thought he was, the one gossip collums say dated and was with other women before her. That thought troubled her but he assuages her fears by telling her that he waited his whole life for her, to her delight.
Quote (his status),
“So either way, you’d be mine.” His hands slide to my ass,
gripping me there. Kaden tugs me in closer so I can feel his hard
cock. A tiny moan leaves me. “God knows I’ve been waiting.” He
places a kiss on my neck.
“Holy, how long have you been waiting? I’ve only made you
chase a month at most.”
“Don’t know what you’re talking about, Kitten. I’ve been waiting
my whole life.”
end quote.
Quote (his status and hers),
“I need to be inside you, Kitten.” I lift my hips, trying to get what I
need. Wanting him to make me his. “Not so fast. Not until you
acknowledge that you’re mine. That no other will ever know what you
feel like besides me.”
“I don’t want anyone else. I never have.”
“Me either.” A sexy smile spreads across his handsome face. “I’m
all yours, Kitten.”
end quote.
When he breached her virginity, he came inside her just as fast, twice, which is a detail I like because it lets me know he wanted her badly and he is new to this, just as she is,
Quote,
“How are you getting tighter?” Kaden's hips jerk again.
“Did you, ah—”
“Come? Yeah.” He lifts his head and shakes it. “Twice.” Kaden's
brows furrow together, disappointed in himself. I’m not. I’m pretty
sure him coming twice from sinking inside of me is going to stroke
my ego for the rest of time.
end quote.
I enjoyed it because its a DV and because I waited for Frankie and Kaden's story since the first book. I liked the other two the best, because I did not care for the way he popped a pain killer, drank it with booze and was harsh with Frankie when she tried to see if he was ok. He re injured himself, so he shut down and would not take care of himself, the worst for her is his mood swings which she got the brunt of. He pretty much told Frankie that she is with him because he is famous, and now that he is injured that she doesn't want him, which isn't true, but it cut her deeply and soon after he sobered up and apologized in front of a crowd on his knees gazing up at her with flowers. She told him he made her cry, and the way he got off his knee and examined her face, stricken with worry and guilt, made me smile. She forgives him, they say their "I love yous" and epilogue.
I forgive a lot when I get a DV couple, and with Ella Goode, we are guaranteed one, so this little third act break up in way kind of irked me but I brushed it off. The scene was hurried and not needed. I forgive it, because he did not do anything irredeemable or say something that would be so mean that it would be inexcusable. He regretted then and there being an ass and his grand gesture made up for it. I hate third act breaks ups or when one is mean to the other only to ask for forgiveness, but that is just my taste.
All in all, I do recommend it. I really LOVE a hero that breaks down the walls his woman puts up. He was tenacious, sweet, loving, funny, intense and very much in charge in the bedroom which made the sex scenes steamy. Frankie secretly loved his tenacious alpha personality, and blushed when he would gaze at her and when he would say suggestive things to her. She relished the attention and the love he put on a silver platter for her to take, but she was scared, hiding her true self under a tough girl persona. She isn't a tomboy at heart, she is a girly girl and he made her feel comfortable in being her girly self. He made her feel beautiful and seen. I loved Kaden because he did not give up, and his love for her never wavered, not once. I did like Frankie, and I understood where she came from. I think she enjoyed the chase and wanted to see if this hunk would tire of her pushing away and give up on her. Well he didn't and he proved her wrong by sticking by her like glue faithfully for decades as seen in the epilogue.
There is one more book in the series, but we have two couples we need stories for! There is the chef Brooks and his mystery restaurant critic, plus we now have Kaden and Frankie's son's story Tom with their baby sitter Starr. It would be a forbidden YA romance since he is 19 and I assume she is the same age, plus he is a famous football player and she is employed by his parents. This is a guaranteed DV as well!
Quote (Tom's inner monologue in the epilogue),
I’ve grown up around that kind of love, and I knew it was the only
thing that would satisfy me, which is why I never dated, never slept
with any girls in high school. Football and my family were enough.
Until Starr came along.
I want her, but I can never have her. She works for my family, and
you don’t take advantage of someone like that. And that makes my
life miserable because everywhere I turn, Starr is there.
end quote.
I WANT THEIR STORY SO BADLY! I also cannot wait for Brooks the Michelin star chef and Slater the food critic's story. Since it is Ella Goode, I am already rubbing my hands in anticipation for an awesome DV story!
Happy reading!
Dual virgins!
Safe
No cheating
No separation
No OM/OW
Push by h
No gross condom use
Sort of a stupid third act break up (does not last more than a day if that)
HEA
This is the long awaited story of Frankie a lawyer and Kaden a football quarterback with a rotator cuff injury. He was chasing after her since he met her a month before the story starts. She saw him when she was a younger on TV and had a crush on him. She said she dated a couple times, which I did not like, but it was later explained in the quote below. I don't consider that dating, but I hate that she did especially after she already had a crush on Kaden, even though she hasn't met him back then. That is a part of the story I did not like at all, but nothing intimate happened and it was more of friends hanging out. You be the judge.
Quote,
I haven’t
been on a ton of dates. Hell, only a couple, if I can recall, and they
might not have been full dates but more friends hanging out. Who
knows? They have always been sporty dates to the batting cages or
go-karts. Which isn’t the worst thing. Sure, it can be fun, but men put
me in this box of the tomboy. I know I don’t help with that, but it does
burn.
end quote.
Her first real date was with Kaden and she panicked and ran; he ran after her ever since. She is afraid to open up to be hurt like her mother always is when she dates. Her mother falls in love only to be heartbroken rince and repeat, which is something Frankie actively stays away from. She pushes Kaden away for fear of falling in love only to be hurt, but he is insistent and if she were honest with herself, she already has fallen in love with him. He found an opening where he declared in front of her clients, boss and coworkers at a business dinner that she and he are getting married. She was stunned and unbeknownst to her, he meant it going through getting a ring and planning a wedding. She does not believe a gorgeous man, famous and buff would be interested in her, and that he must be just because she pushes him away so he must like the challenge. He is not the type of man she thought he was, the one gossip collums say dated and was with other women before her. That thought troubled her but he assuages her fears by telling her that he waited his whole life for her, to her delight.
Quote (his status),
“So either way, you’d be mine.” His hands slide to my ass,
gripping me there. Kaden tugs me in closer so I can feel his hard
cock. A tiny moan leaves me. “God knows I’ve been waiting.” He
places a kiss on my neck.
“Holy, how long have you been waiting? I’ve only made you
chase a month at most.”
“Don’t know what you’re talking about, Kitten. I’ve been waiting
my whole life.”
end quote.
Quote (his status and hers),
“I need to be inside you, Kitten.” I lift my hips, trying to get what I
need. Wanting him to make me his. “Not so fast. Not until you
acknowledge that you’re mine. That no other will ever know what you
feel like besides me.”
“I don’t want anyone else. I never have.”
“Me either.” A sexy smile spreads across his handsome face. “I’m
all yours, Kitten.”
end quote.
When he breached her virginity, he came inside her just as fast, twice, which is a detail I like because it lets me know he wanted her badly and he is new to this, just as she is,
Quote,
“How are you getting tighter?” Kaden's hips jerk again.
“Did you, ah—”
“Come? Yeah.” He lifts his head and shakes it. “Twice.” Kaden's
brows furrow together, disappointed in himself. I’m not. I’m pretty
sure him coming twice from sinking inside of me is going to stroke
my ego for the rest of time.
end quote.
I enjoyed it because its a DV and because I waited for Frankie and Kaden's story since the first book. I liked the other two the best, because I did not care for the way he popped a pain killer, drank it with booze and was harsh with Frankie when she tried to see if he was ok. He re injured himself, so he shut down and would not take care of himself, the worst for her is his mood swings which she got the brunt of. He pretty much told Frankie that she is with him because he is famous, and now that he is injured that she doesn't want him, which isn't true, but it cut her deeply and soon after he sobered up and apologized in front of a crowd on his knees gazing up at her with flowers. She told him he made her cry, and the way he got off his knee and examined her face, stricken with worry and guilt, made me smile. She forgives him, they say their "I love yous" and epilogue.
I forgive a lot when I get a DV couple, and with Ella Goode, we are guaranteed one, so this little third act break up in way kind of irked me but I brushed it off. The scene was hurried and not needed. I forgive it, because he did not do anything irredeemable or say something that would be so mean that it would be inexcusable. He regretted then and there being an ass and his grand gesture made up for it. I hate third act breaks ups or when one is mean to the other only to ask for forgiveness, but that is just my taste.
All in all, I do recommend it. I really LOVE a hero that breaks down the walls his woman puts up. He was tenacious, sweet, loving, funny, intense and very much in charge in the bedroom which made the sex scenes steamy. Frankie secretly loved his tenacious alpha personality, and blushed when he would gaze at her and when he would say suggestive things to her. She relished the attention and the love he put on a silver platter for her to take, but she was scared, hiding her true self under a tough girl persona. She isn't a tomboy at heart, she is a girly girl and he made her feel comfortable in being her girly self. He made her feel beautiful and seen. I loved Kaden because he did not give up, and his love for her never wavered, not once. I did like Frankie, and I understood where she came from. I think she enjoyed the chase and wanted to see if this hunk would tire of her pushing away and give up on her. Well he didn't and he proved her wrong by sticking by her like glue faithfully for decades as seen in the epilogue.
There is one more book in the series, but we have two couples we need stories for! There is the chef Brooks and his mystery restaurant critic, plus we now have Kaden and Frankie's son's story Tom with their baby sitter Starr. It would be a forbidden YA romance since he is 19 and I assume she is the same age, plus he is a famous football player and she is employed by his parents. This is a guaranteed DV as well!
Quote (Tom's inner monologue in the epilogue),
I’ve grown up around that kind of love, and I knew it was the only
thing that would satisfy me, which is why I never dated, never slept
with any girls in high school. Football and my family were enough.
Until Starr came along.
I want her, but I can never have her. She works for my family, and
you don’t take advantage of someone like that. And that makes my
life miserable because everywhere I turn, Starr is there.
end quote.
I WANT THEIR STORY SO BADLY! I also cannot wait for Brooks the Michelin star chef and Slater the food critic's story. Since it is Ella Goode, I am already rubbing my hands in anticipation for an awesome DV story!
Happy reading!
July 1, 2025
Witty and fun, that's what I like. And this novella has plenty of both.
The heroine is a no-nonsense lawyer who's had to push her most feminine instincts into hibernation in order to fulfill her ambitions in a world of men.
When a big, handsome quarterback lavishes her with a seemingly fake engagement, possessive interest and millions of kisses, she has a hard time remembering her motto of no men, no heartbreak.
I loved this couple! She's really hard to conquer but he is understanding yet domineering when he has to. Even though there's a bump in the road that made me a bit sad, they are both relentless in their feelings.
I laughed every time the group of male friends were together, with their banter and crazy expectations. These men are never boring :-D
Sweet, fun and hot. Yay.
The heroine is a no-nonsense lawyer who's had to push her most feminine instincts into hibernation in order to fulfill her ambitions in a world of men.
When a big, handsome quarterback lavishes her with a seemingly fake engagement, possessive interest and millions of kisses, she has a hard time remembering her motto of no men, no heartbreak.
I loved this couple! She's really hard to conquer but he is understanding yet domineering when he has to. Even though there's a bump in the road that made me a bit sad, they are both relentless in their feelings.
I laughed every time the group of male friends were together, with their banter and crazy expectations. These men are never boring :-D
Sweet, fun and hot. Yay.
July 7, 2025
Kaden and Frankie.. 3rd DV in the series... yessss
*Contains SPOILERS* For the SAFE readers…
I love this book. It’s the best of the 3 books in the series, imo. Why? Because it is focused on them, only them and how Kaden works to win Frankie.
A super plus… it’s a DV romance!!! yeeeeessssss. All the books in this series is a DV. And I’m loving it. I hope there is more to come.
I loved how determined Kaden was to get the girl. He was jealous, protective of her. Just like Dylan and Graham were with their girls. Kaden almost knew what Frankie was thinking. So, he provided anything she needed, he took care of her. I loved how he plowed forward; he saw the opportunity to get engaged to Frankie and push for the wedding; not giving her much of a choice because even if she deep down knew she wanted it, she would’ve never made the decision of giving Kaden a chance. He is intelligent!! He also has an answer when they are bickering. So, he can hold his piece with the fiery redhead!! Love it!!
At some point, I thought she was being mistreated in her job because she’s a woman, and that Kaden was going to get her out of it giving her a company of her own. But seems like she could manage her job just fine.
She is a hard worker. Fierce. Strong woman. With the trauma that relationships don’t work because of her mom’s experiences with love. But how Kaden proved her wrong about him and their relationship. I loved it.
It was uncomfortable to read that he had two onlyfans porn girls filming IN HIS HOTEL ROOM when he opened his hotel room door. Like, how did they get in? Him being a good guy, he got out of there, went to his manager and got better security.
The Frankie’s mom visit was also uncomfortable. I don’t know what to think about it. I thought she was flirting with him, especially with the trying to kiss him when greeting him the first time. And then all her questions. Oh, how about saying Frankie didn’t want to marry and have kids? (And Frankie confirming, ugh!!) Her mom basically swept the floor with her. Idk if she was trying to scare him. But I didn’t like her mom. Especially when her behavior in love department didn’t give her any good credits.
Kaden helped her heal and love her self. He put her first every time. And yes, the little fight was a little disappointing, but I understood where he’s coming from, his frustration with his injury. And loved the grand gesture he did to apologize.
I just love this book. I will buy and recommend reading it.
Epilogue is from their son’s POV and a preview to his own book. ♥️.
SAFE
- DV!!! Yayyyy!!
- ow: no
- om: no
- separation/breakups: no
- cheating/sharing: no
- possible triggers: no
- HEA: yes
PD: There is a brief talk about Brooks and his girl. But I kinda don’t like that it was a one-night stand. He said she asked him to go to his room and have sex, and he simply obeyed. That just sounds like he is easily convinced to have sex. Just like a womanizer. I don’t like it one bit, so I’m worried for next book. I don’t want this series to end badly. Let’s see!
*Contains SPOILERS* For the SAFE readers…
I love this book. It’s the best of the 3 books in the series, imo. Why? Because it is focused on them, only them and how Kaden works to win Frankie.
A super plus… it’s a DV romance!!! yeeeeessssss. All the books in this series is a DV. And I’m loving it. I hope there is more to come.
I loved how determined Kaden was to get the girl. He was jealous, protective of her. Just like Dylan and Graham were with their girls. Kaden almost knew what Frankie was thinking. So, he provided anything she needed, he took care of her. I loved how he plowed forward; he saw the opportunity to get engaged to Frankie and push for the wedding; not giving her much of a choice because even if she deep down knew she wanted it, she would’ve never made the decision of giving Kaden a chance. He is intelligent!! He also has an answer when they are bickering. So, he can hold his piece with the fiery redhead!! Love it!!
At some point, I thought she was being mistreated in her job because she’s a woman, and that Kaden was going to get her out of it giving her a company of her own. But seems like she could manage her job just fine.
She is a hard worker. Fierce. Strong woman. With the trauma that relationships don’t work because of her mom’s experiences with love. But how Kaden proved her wrong about him and their relationship. I loved it.
It was uncomfortable to read that he had two onlyfans porn girls filming IN HIS HOTEL ROOM when he opened his hotel room door. Like, how did they get in? Him being a good guy, he got out of there, went to his manager and got better security.
The Frankie’s mom visit was also uncomfortable. I don’t know what to think about it. I thought she was flirting with him, especially with the trying to kiss him when greeting him the first time. And then all her questions. Oh, how about saying Frankie didn’t want to marry and have kids? (And Frankie confirming, ugh!!) Her mom basically swept the floor with her. Idk if she was trying to scare him. But I didn’t like her mom. Especially when her behavior in love department didn’t give her any good credits.
Kaden helped her heal and love her self. He put her first every time. And yes, the little fight was a little disappointing, but I understood where he’s coming from, his frustration with his injury. And loved the grand gesture he did to apologize.
I just love this book. I will buy and recommend reading it.
Epilogue is from their son’s POV and a preview to his own book. ♥️.
SAFE
- DV!!! Yayyyy!!
- ow: no
- om: no
- separation/breakups: no
- cheating/sharing: no
- possible triggers: no
- HEA: yes
PD: There is a brief talk about Brooks and his girl. But I kinda don’t like that it was a one-night stand. He said she asked him to go to his room and have sex, and he simply obeyed. That just sounds like he is easily convinced to have sex. Just like a womanizer. I don’t like it one bit, so I’m worried for next book. I don’t want this series to end badly. Let’s see!
November 28, 2025
’Mi mayor victoria fue escucharte decir que me amabas, y mi mayor pérdida será que te alejes.’
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
Hard Hearts de Ella Goode serie The Heart Connection libro 3
Argumento:
Frankie
No tengo tiempo para los hombres, ni me sirven de mucho. Estoy ocupada con mis amigos, mi carrera y mi familia. Algunos dirán que soy insensible, pero yo prefiero la inteligencia. Estoy a punto de cerrar un trato inolvidable y ningún mariscal de campo famoso que intente acelerar su rehabilitación me convencerá de dejar la soltería.
Kaden
Aunque me gano la vida lanzando fútbol americano, reconozco algo bueno cuando lo veo. Frankie Lodato lo tiene todo: inteligente, gracioso y un auténtico farsante. Aunque odio pasar la temporada baja recuperándome de una cirugía de manguito rotador, lo bueno es que tengo todo el tiempo del mundo para conquistar a Frankie. Es un hueso duro de roer, pero un chico de pueblo no llega a ser una estrella del fútbol americano sin superar todos los retos que he enfrentado.
Mi humilde opinión:
Romance con atracción instantánea, OTT, de enemigos a amantes, compromiso falso, deportista, gato negro, él cae primero.
La historia de Frankie y Kaden tenia humor y picante pero también estaba el drama. Este giro m gustó porque no todo fue perfecto en el inicio de su relación. Cuando parece que todo va encaminado con la pareja surgen conflictos con la carrera deportiva de Kaden y celos por el trabajo de Frankie, que los hace tener un momento de tensión. Kaden había trabajado tan duro para conquistar al amor de su vida que casi la pierde por su metida de pata. Menos mal que este hombre no le importa rogar que lo perdone y Frankie le da otra oportunidad.
Hay un epilogo a muchos años después con el hijo de los dos, Tom, seguramente pronto conoceremos su historia con la niñera Starr. Pero quiero saber ahora que sucedió con Brooks y la critica culinaria!
July 4, 2025
I’m in love with their LOVE🥹💕
Seven chapters in and I already knew this was going to be a five star read. How can this be a quote in the book and you don’t find yourself swooning over these imaginary characters so hard.
✨“I’m already irritated that I have to pretend we’re getting married.”
“It’s not pretend, Kitten. It’s for real, and we’re here to plan it.”✨
How can you not fall in love with a man who is trying to wife you so hard, and he’s not hiding his obsession over you one bit? Kaden that’s who! He did a great job of winning over Frankie and us as the readers so incredibly fast too. Hard Hearts will surprised you with how sweet of a read it is, and the steamy romance it has is just delectable if I do say so myself. If you want an entertaining read look not further. This has my favorite endings of any previous book Ella Goode has published recently, so yeah you could say I’m very much fan-girling over how great it was. The anticipation of what’s next in the series is killing me because I’m so hyped for it!
Seven chapters in and I already knew this was going to be a five star read. How can this be a quote in the book and you don’t find yourself swooning over these imaginary characters so hard.
✨“I’m already irritated that I have to pretend we’re getting married.”
“It’s not pretend, Kitten. It’s for real, and we’re here to plan it.”✨
How can you not fall in love with a man who is trying to wife you so hard, and he’s not hiding his obsession over you one bit? Kaden that’s who! He did a great job of winning over Frankie and us as the readers so incredibly fast too. Hard Hearts will surprised you with how sweet of a read it is, and the steamy romance it has is just delectable if I do say so myself. If you want an entertaining read look not further. This has my favorite endings of any previous book Ella Goode has published recently, so yeah you could say I’m very much fan-girling over how great it was. The anticipation of what’s next in the series is killing me because I’m so hyped for it!
June 30, 2025
ella goode makes you feel…
…hella good when you read her stories, and this was no exception. Sure, it was trope-y, but sometimes tropes give you comfort in their familiarity. Add to that the banter among the characters—not just the two main lovebirds—and you have a great story to get you through a difficult day.
Kaden is an adorable gentle giant. Frankie is a secret girly girl underneath that black cat sexy sass. I’m glad for happy and supportive minor characters in this story especially Graham from book2.
All in all a great enjoyable read.
I’m not sure about the epilogue, though. It wasn’t what I expected.
…hella good when you read her stories, and this was no exception. Sure, it was trope-y, but sometimes tropes give you comfort in their familiarity. Add to that the banter among the characters—not just the two main lovebirds—and you have a great story to get you through a difficult day.
Kaden is an adorable gentle giant. Frankie is a secret girly girl underneath that black cat sexy sass. I’m glad for happy and supportive minor characters in this story especially Graham from book2.
All in all a great enjoyable read.
I’m not sure about the epilogue, though. It wasn’t what I expected.
July 1, 2025
Frankie was a hard nut to crack. But Kaden was persistent. He offered her a fake relationship when she needed it, but he knew it would be real one day. Frankie was afraid and very against love and relationships, based on family history. Kaden stuck with her through it all. He proved to her that love could work. All the while treating her as something precious; someone who loved girly pink stuff like her engagement ring and a Chanel suit. I loved that Kaden wasn’t afraid to show his vulnerability to make Frankie feel more comfortable. I can’t wait for the next book. And hopefully a second generation series with the children, including Tom Gunner.
July 4, 2025
needed a closer eye on the editing
It was difficult to fully get into the story when details would shift from chapter to chapter. For example, the FMC wished she got her mom’s height, but in the next scene the MMC describes her as tall; or when Jasper refers to his wife as Stella at the initial business dinner, but she introduces herself to the FMC with a different name; or when the title of the company changed. I ended up DNF’ing before 50% because these inconsistencies made it difficult to focus on the story.
It was difficult to fully get into the story when details would shift from chapter to chapter. For example, the FMC wished she got her mom’s height, but in the next scene the MMC describes her as tall; or when Jasper refers to his wife as Stella at the initial business dinner, but she introduces herself to the FMC with a different name; or when the title of the company changed. I ended up DNF’ing before 50% because these inconsistencies made it difficult to focus on the story.
July 9, 2025
2.5✯
-no ow/om drama
-dual POV
-she pushed him away
-no cheating
-insta love/lust for the H
-I found the h a bit annoying
-obsessed possessive alpha hero (there was a brief scene almost at the end where he acted like a jerk, I really wish the h hadn't forgiven him so quickly but I liked him for the most part)
-virgin heroine, I think he was also a virgin
-good epilogue (told from the MCs' son): at least 20 years later -married with 2 children
-no ow/om drama
-dual POV
-she pushed him away
-no cheating
-insta love/lust for the H
-I found the h a bit annoying
-obsessed possessive alpha hero (there was a brief scene almost at the end where he acted like a jerk, I really wish the h hadn't forgiven him so quickly but I liked him for the most part)
-virgin heroine, I think he was also a virgin
-good epilogue (told from the MCs' son): at least 20 years later -married with 2 children
June 26, 2025
Kaden meets Frankie and instantly knows she’s the one for him! Yes, she has a rough exterior, but he knows she hides the real her underneath that exterior she’s forced to wear and the man world she loves in!
These two are perfect for each other - especially once she stops fighting him! Who knew it would just take a giant diamond ring!
These two are perfect for each other - especially once she stops fighting him! Who knew it would just take a giant diamond ring!
June 27, 2025
Another winner by Ms Goode
Frankie and Kaden, these two certainly do like to challenge each other. Snarky comments back and forward. Kaden makes no attempts to hide his attraction to Frankie, tells her they will marry, then buys her an engagement ring, again without asking. Yes, things all work out and the epilogue is really good.
Spicy, loving between two strong personalities.
Frankie and Kaden, these two certainly do like to challenge each other. Snarky comments back and forward. Kaden makes no attempts to hide his attraction to Frankie, tells her they will marry, then buys her an engagement ring, again without asking. Yes, things all work out and the epilogue is really good.
Spicy, loving between two strong personalities.
June 29, 2025
Beautifully written romance
Kaden Gunner knows exactly what he wants and he wants Frankie. He buys her the ring, wants to give her everything her heart desires but she’s too gun shy. Beautifully written romance, fast paced, steamy and such a feel good read. Kaden and Frankie are perfect together and I absolutely loved everything about this story.
Kaden Gunner knows exactly what he wants and he wants Frankie. He buys her the ring, wants to give her everything her heart desires but she’s too gun shy. Beautifully written romance, fast paced, steamy and such a feel good read. Kaden and Frankie are perfect together and I absolutely loved everything about this story.
June 29, 2025
Liked this one better than the other in the series. And would love to have a book about their son - who’s is a virgin and in love with his little sister babysitter!
He’s in love with her but she won’t give him the time of the day. So he crashes her work dinner and tells them they are together.
- Football player // lawyer
- Fake dating
- Dual v
- No owd/ omd
He’s in love with her but she won’t give him the time of the day. So he crashes her work dinner and tells them they are together.
- Football player // lawyer
- Fake dating
- Dual v
- No owd/ omd
July 7, 2025
I received an ARC and I'm freely reviewing.
4.4 stars. I have been looking forward to Kaden and Frankie's story since book 1. This did not disappoint. Both characters are wonderfully written, the banter between them is hilarious. This was a great book to read when I have been feeling down. Also, that epilogue, oh yes please!!
4.4 stars. I have been looking forward to Kaden and Frankie's story since book 1. This did not disappoint. Both characters are wonderfully written, the banter between them is hilarious. This was a great book to read when I have been feeling down. Also, that epilogue, oh yes please!!
July 4, 2025
Very good story, loved every chapter. Frankie was focused on achieving success in her career, but when she met Kaden things started to change, between them emerged a false relationship that very soon became something real. A very good story where you will enjoy reading this entertaining plot.
July 6, 2025
Kaden & Frankie
I’m so happy to see Kaden and Frankie finally get together! Frankie could only fight her feelings for so long before Kaden won her over. This was light and fun. Their story was short and sweet - and steamy and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m excited for the last one in this series.
I’m so happy to see Kaden and Frankie finally get together! Frankie could only fight her feelings for so long before Kaden won her over. This was light and fun. Their story was short and sweet - and steamy and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m excited for the last one in this series.
July 7, 2025
"Hard Hearts" is the story of Frankie and Kaden.
An enjoyable read with role reversal- it is our heroine who is the career oriented hottie and the hero is head over heels, and pursues her. Charming couple, good sex scenes, happy ending.
Safe
4/5
An enjoyable read with role reversal- it is our heroine who is the career oriented hottie and the hero is head over heels, and pursues her. Charming couple, good sex scenes, happy ending.
Safe
4/5
August 24, 2025
Este estuvo sencillito.
Frankie, abogada, necesita fimar un super contrato con una empresa de Jaspel Metal y solo lo lograra si se compromete con Kaden, quaterback de futam. Empiezan fingiendo amores y se van enamorando y al final se casan y ya. No hay nada mas que decir.
Frankie, abogada, necesita fimar un super contrato con una empresa de Jaspel Metal y solo lo lograra si se compromete con Kaden, quaterback de futam. Empiezan fingiendo amores y se van enamorando y al final se casan y ya. No hay nada mas que decir.
July 1, 2025
2.5
A few things I didn't like and she forgave way too fast
A few things I didn't like and she forgave way too fast
July 2, 2025
Kitten
I don’t think Kaden slowed down for a second. It might have taken Frankie a minute to catch up, but when she did, boom. Loved it.
I don’t think Kaden slowed down for a second. It might have taken Frankie a minute to catch up, but when she did, boom. Loved it.
Read
July 27, 2025Jasper's (potential client of Frankie's employer) wife goes from being named Stella to Kate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2025
Kaden's attitude turned me off right from the start. This one is not for me.
August 27, 2025
Quick and cute book about Frankie and Kaden. Not my favourite in the series but still enjoyed the story.
August 30, 2025
Best one of the series
September 28, 2025
Dual V 🥰
October 29, 2025
Just too rushed…
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