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Check & Chase
CHASE MITCHELL
He's hockey's golden boy with a reputation both on and off the ice. When a brutal knee injury threatens his shot at the Cup, his comeback depends on one person: his rival's little sister—the last woman he should want.
EMMA ANDERSON
She walked away from skating after a career-ending injury crushed her Olympic dreams. Now she's back as the Bears' physical therapist, ready to face her cheating ex—but not ready for Chase Mitchell.
Especially when he makes her an offer: fake date him to keep his obsessive ex away, and in return, he'll help her get revenge on hers.
Their on-camera chemistry was supposed to be pretend. But when the cameras stop rolling, the heat between them is anything but.
Someone's bound to get hurt.
And in this game, love isn't just risky—it's a full-contact sport.
He's hockey's golden boy with a reputation both on and off the ice. When a brutal knee injury threatens his shot at the Cup, his comeback depends on one person: his rival's little sister—the last woman he should want.
EMMA ANDERSON
She walked away from skating after a career-ending injury crushed her Olympic dreams. Now she's back as the Bears' physical therapist, ready to face her cheating ex—but not ready for Chase Mitchell.
Especially when he makes her an offer: fake date him to keep his obsessive ex away, and in return, he'll help her get revenge on hers.
Their on-camera chemistry was supposed to be pretend. But when the cameras stop rolling, the heat between them is anything but.
Someone's bound to get hurt.
And in this game, love isn't just risky—it's a full-contact sport.
511 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2025
64 people are currently reading
1171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
September 26, 2025
I’ve been looking forward to this book for weeks, all of the teasers did their job! I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book, but there were so many things that:
1. Didn’t make sense
2. Were extremely aggravating
I wanted to DNF this at least 10 times after 50%. Finally DNFed at 93% after skimming for 5 chapters.
What did I like:
- probably the first 25%
- how they met
- the forced proximity aspect
What did I NOT like:
- the “we need to talk” but putting it off for weeks because “you look tired but we need to talk next time”. This is worst than the miscommunication trope.
- getting to know family and admitting you love eachother and then ghosting him?! Also, by the time we get to the I love yous, she’s the only one who has gotten any.
- Him being so selfless and getting her off multiple times before she he even thinks about doing something for him. By no means do you have to return favors, but this FMC acts like a douchey guy in so many ways (just takes, manipulative, polar opposite of generous or selfless to someone they “love”)
- This book should have been done at 50%, I honestly have no ideal what else could possible happen in the last half. The entire plot feels complete. They started so many random sub-tropes and they all felt half baked.
- dropping what you’re doing to drive 6 hours in a blizzard because your mom twisted her ankle?! And then mom says “you didn’t need to risk coming all the way here”. DUH! That was idiotic!
- Conveniently gets over her fear of ice at the drop of a hat and forgets she’s a PT while he’s doing things to make his injury worse while likely getting her off or doing sweet things for her.
- The office being ok with their relationship or his heroic moment (targeting isn’t good but the guy didn’t even complete the penalty before the MMC did a dumb thing and sacrificed himself).
- Why is she sitting in the stands or at her home during home games? She’s the team PT, she is supposed to be there for her job?!
- I’m convinced that at 70%, this book is only this long so there would be a 3rd act break up. The worst part about literally any book.
- She’s honestly worse than him. He’s groveling, she’s stringing him along and giving him hope, that she loves him and she’s as much to blame as he is. Then she throws him a “what if I decide the risk is too great, that protecting myself means walking away for good”. Seriously?! So manipulative.
- I believe the MMC is manic between the 30%-80% range of book. And the FMC enjoys giving him hope and then turning him down. That is what I’d expect from an antagonistic character, of basically 90% of real men in the world.
- This makes the NHL look like a bunch of school girls gossiping. Every character in this book acts like a teenager. Any no coach or management would applaud their players stopping a hit on the opposing team.
- [The first time they bang is at 74% and the. They’re basically banging every 2% of the book until like 86%. And the spicy scenes follow the EXACT same formula. These scenes felt forced, like “whoops they haven’t done anything sexual since like 20%, lets just cram 3 spicy scenes in”
- Sick of the friends being so wishy washy, “get together” , “don’t trust him”, “are you leaking info?”, “I’m on team get Emma back” Jesus Christ.
- Talk about unrealistic. Someone would never jump in front of their own teammate to stop their hit on an opposing player once, let alone twice. That makes Jackson look weak and anyone who has ever watched a professional sport in their lives knows that would never happen.
- The farther I get into this book, the more little things I notice that make think that this was written by AI. The name of the city being so random but actually calling out other cities, “flying her out” when it’s a 2 hour drive. Hotel suite with a balcony over looking the “town square”, what “town” is big enough for an NHL team. Smashing a ton of half baked tropes together, not explaining the ages - it took me like 15% to realize they were all out of college age. Talking about “their one chance at the cup” when literally the first chapter is about them winning the cup the season before.
1. Didn’t make sense
2. Were extremely aggravating
I wanted to DNF this at least 10 times after 50%. Finally DNFed at 93% after skimming for 5 chapters.
What did I like:
- probably the first 25%
- how they met
- the forced proximity aspect
What did I NOT like:
- the “we need to talk” but putting it off for weeks because “you look tired but we need to talk next time”. This is worst than the miscommunication trope.
- getting to know family and admitting you love eachother and then ghosting him?! Also, by the time we get to the I love yous, she’s the only one who has gotten any.
- Him being so selfless and getting her off multiple times before she he even thinks about doing something for him. By no means do you have to return favors, but this FMC acts like a douchey guy in so many ways (just takes, manipulative, polar opposite of generous or selfless to someone they “love”)
- This book should have been done at 50%, I honestly have no ideal what else could possible happen in the last half. The entire plot feels complete. They started so many random sub-tropes and they all felt half baked.
- dropping what you’re doing to drive 6 hours in a blizzard because your mom twisted her ankle?! And then mom says “you didn’t need to risk coming all the way here”. DUH! That was idiotic!
- Conveniently gets over her fear of ice at the drop of a hat and forgets she’s a PT while he’s doing things to make his injury worse while likely getting her off or doing sweet things for her.
- The office being ok with their relationship or his heroic moment (targeting isn’t good but the guy didn’t even complete the penalty before the MMC did a dumb thing and sacrificed himself).
- Why is she sitting in the stands or at her home during home games? She’s the team PT, she is supposed to be there for her job?!
- I’m convinced that at 70%, this book is only this long so there would be a 3rd act break up. The worst part about literally any book.
- She’s honestly worse than him. He’s groveling, she’s stringing him along and giving him hope, that she loves him and she’s as much to blame as he is. Then she throws him a “what if I decide the risk is too great, that protecting myself means walking away for good”. Seriously?! So manipulative.
- I believe the MMC is manic between the 30%-80% range of book. And the FMC enjoys giving him hope and then turning him down. That is what I’d expect from an antagonistic character, of basically 90% of real men in the world.
- This makes the NHL look like a bunch of school girls gossiping. Every character in this book acts like a teenager. Any no coach or management would applaud their players stopping a hit on the opposing team.
- [The first time they bang is at 74% and the. They’re basically banging every 2% of the book until like 86%. And the spicy scenes follow the EXACT same formula. These scenes felt forced, like “whoops they haven’t done anything sexual since like 20%, lets just cram 3 spicy scenes in”
- Sick of the friends being so wishy washy, “get together” , “don’t trust him”, “are you leaking info?”, “I’m on team get Emma back” Jesus Christ.
- Talk about unrealistic. Someone would never jump in front of their own teammate to stop their hit on an opposing player once, let alone twice. That makes Jackson look weak and anyone who has ever watched a professional sport in their lives knows that would never happen.
- The farther I get into this book, the more little things I notice that make think that this was written by AI. The name of the city being so random but actually calling out other cities, “flying her out” when it’s a 2 hour drive. Hotel suite with a balcony over looking the “town square”, what “town” is big enough for an NHL team. Smashing a ton of half baked tropes together, not explaining the ages - it took me like 15% to realize they were all out of college age. Talking about “their one chance at the cup” when literally the first chapter is about them winning the cup the season before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
I’ve never been more confident in a rating in my life. I decided to stop reading at 23% because I felt like I kept reading the same part over and over again. “We need to talk” “ok tomorrow” and then tomorrow would come and of course something would happen so they wouldn’t be able to talk. I literally don’t even care about the rest of the book…. Also I’m not a PT and I just know that kneeling on your bad knee just to eat you out is not something you should be condoning ?? Anyways bye
October 15, 2025
I picked this up because it was hyped so much on IG…but that’s all it is: hype. how are there so many people who have saved this to their TBR? where have our standards gone? are we at the stage where people will just read anything that claims to be a hockey romance? (clearly i fall into this category too and i have deep regrets lmfao)
the book has no substance, and if you wanted a hockey romance, there are SO MANY BETTER ONES OUT THERE that don’t even need this many pages to tell.
there was just too much going on, it didn’t need that many tropes.
emma is likely one of the most unlikeable and aggravating FMCs out there. well done to the author for achieving that feat of writing a character that was so hard to root for.
but most of all, MOST OF ALL, it’s obvious that the author doesn’t know anything about hockey and only made the MMC play hockey because it’s popular rn and obviously it worked in conning many people to read this.
the book has no substance, and if you wanted a hockey romance, there are SO MANY BETTER ONES OUT THERE that don’t even need this many pages to tell.
there was just too much going on, it didn’t need that many tropes.
emma is likely one of the most unlikeable and aggravating FMCs out there. well done to the author for achieving that feat of writing a character that was so hard to root for.
but most of all, MOST OF ALL, it’s obvious that the author doesn’t know anything about hockey and only made the MMC play hockey because it’s popular rn and obviously it worked in conning many people to read this.
July 30, 2025
"I choose you. I've been choosing you since I saw you again, and I'll keep choosing you if you'll let me. You're not just another chapter in my story, Emma. You're the whole damn book"
Getting caught up with a stranger at a party is bad, especially if that stranger is your ex's teammate, your brother's rival, and now... he's your patient. But with his striking blue eyes and those dimples that could bring any girl to her knees, Emma promises herself it was just a one-time thing. A hookup. A year ago. And now? It's all professional. It has to be.
Because Chase has a reputation he’s a player, and worse, he’s the last person her brother would want near her. How bad could it possibly get? Well, apparently, very. Because the second he calls her blondie, she’s already smiling. He flashes those dimples, and she’s blushing. Her heart’s beating faster. And just like that, she’s spiraling.
The banter between them was everything flirty, toeing the line between teasing and trouble. From stolen glances in the exam room to heated arguments that clearly hid something deeper you could feel the yearning on every page. And when things turned spicy...jeez this man is so whipped.
Emma was such a strong character. From the outside, she’s confident and composed, but the more we learn about her past why she chose the work she does, what shaped her the more it all makes sense. She carries quiet strength and a lot of unspoken fears, but she never lets them stop her. Watching her learn to open up again, to trust someone new with her heart, felt so personal and real.
"I need you more than I need hockey right now. More than I need to win the fucking cup"
And Chase? My heart. He starts off cocky, Charming, infuriating, too handsome for his own good. But underneath that, he’s so much more. There’s a softness to him. He listens. He notices. He pushes Emma just enough to make her stronger, not smaller. His career, his knee injury, his struggles with identity and legacy they all make him layered. And when I say he’s the perfect book boyfriend I mean it. He built her an ICE RINK so she could face her fear. He didn't just say the right words he showed up for her in every possible way.
And he has a cat. Oh my God.
some things felt a bit repetitive at times, but it never took away from the enjoyment. The story had heart. They both had healing to do. But they chose to do it together, and that’s what made it so beautiful.
The ending was perfect.
I still can't believe this is the author's debut. She nailed it.
_____________________
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Getting caught up with a stranger at a party is bad, especially if that stranger is your ex's teammate, your brother's rival, and now... he's your patient. But with his striking blue eyes and those dimples that could bring any girl to her knees, Emma promises herself it was just a one-time thing. A hookup. A year ago. And now? It's all professional. It has to be.
Because Chase has a reputation he’s a player, and worse, he’s the last person her brother would want near her. How bad could it possibly get? Well, apparently, very. Because the second he calls her blondie, she’s already smiling. He flashes those dimples, and she’s blushing. Her heart’s beating faster. And just like that, she’s spiraling.
The banter between them was everything flirty, toeing the line between teasing and trouble. From stolen glances in the exam room to heated arguments that clearly hid something deeper you could feel the yearning on every page. And when things turned spicy...jeez this man is so whipped.
Emma was such a strong character. From the outside, she’s confident and composed, but the more we learn about her past why she chose the work she does, what shaped her the more it all makes sense. She carries quiet strength and a lot of unspoken fears, but she never lets them stop her. Watching her learn to open up again, to trust someone new with her heart, felt so personal and real.
"I need you more than I need hockey right now. More than I need to win the fucking cup"
And Chase? My heart. He starts off cocky, Charming, infuriating, too handsome for his own good. But underneath that, he’s so much more. There’s a softness to him. He listens. He notices. He pushes Emma just enough to make her stronger, not smaller. His career, his knee injury, his struggles with identity and legacy they all make him layered. And when I say he’s the perfect book boyfriend I mean it. He built her an ICE RINK so she could face her fear. He didn't just say the right words he showed up for her in every possible way.
And he has a cat. Oh my God.
some things felt a bit repetitive at times, but it never took away from the enjoyment. The story had heart. They both had healing to do. But they chose to do it together, and that’s what made it so beautiful.
The ending was perfect.
I still can't believe this is the author's debut. She nailed it.
_____________________
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October 5, 2025
I loved this book! This is Clara St. James’ debut book but reading it felt like I had picked up a seasoned author. Chase was everything I hoped him to be but Emma was an even better FMC. The banter between them was literally chefs kiss 🤌. I needed another sports romance in my life I am so glad I took a chance with this one. 5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
December 27, 2025
That was interesting (derogatory).
July 29, 2025
ARC REVIEW
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
🌶️
I love love love Emma & Chase’s story❤️! Their banter and the overall storyline was perfectly executed🥹. I absolutely loved it 100% and I would recommend it as a must read. I would definitely re-read in the future too. The amount of smut was just perfect for the book. Chef’s Kiss💋. I read this book in one sitting😩. Thanks to the author Clara St. James for an ARC copy of this beautiful book. I definitely need it as a paperback on my shelves.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
🌶️
I love love love Emma & Chase’s story❤️! Their banter and the overall storyline was perfectly executed🥹. I absolutely loved it 100% and I would recommend it as a must read. I would definitely re-read in the future too. The amount of smut was just perfect for the book. Chef’s Kiss💋. I read this book in one sitting😩. Thanks to the author Clara St. James for an ARC copy of this beautiful book. I definitely need it as a paperback on my shelves.
August 3, 2025
4 ⭐️ read! I was lucky enough to be selected to be apart of author clara st.james ARC team for her debut book and I’m so happy i was! This book really scratched my hockey romance itch that i was looking for! I loved the banter between Chase and Emma! Their back and forth and the tension was so good! At times it felt like some of the conflicts, and issues the characters were going through were stretched out and repetitive it was still written so well that i enjoyed it! I loved Emma’s character development in being able to let herself face her fears not only in trauma but relationships and Chase being the catalyst for both! Chase also had a great character ARC and his growth in understand himself and Emma was one for the books! I’m seriously so shocked that this is claras first book and if my guess on the second book is correct… I’m SO excited 👀 you guys aren’t gonna wanna miss this one!
September 27, 2025
Too much happened in this book, it was too long. Also they had the same argument every 10 pages. To many life events. There was something there but needed editing..
July 30, 2025
ARC Review!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Fake Dating
Brother’s Rival
I absolutely loved this! Devoured this honker of a book in just two days!!
Our FMC Emma was just fantastic! I loved her and her personality. She’s witty, smart, and doesn’t take no shit (for the most part she has a few moments where people get the better of her but that’s okay!)
Our MMC Chase he’s just so adorable, a bit immature, but his heart is just sweet! He’s so patient and kind to our FMC and a bit too over protective as well. He’s great book boyfriend material!
I will admit some of the dialogue is a bit repetitive, but it wasn’t a deal breaker. The open and rawness of the characters and how they deal with their own traumas and PTSD was amazingly done! It had the drama, the spice was so good and definitely picks up towards the end of the book!
The ending is pretty basic , but it’s so cute and adorable! It was a great and lovely end to a wonderful drama packed book!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Fake Dating
Brother’s Rival
I absolutely loved this! Devoured this honker of a book in just two days!!
Our FMC Emma was just fantastic! I loved her and her personality. She’s witty, smart, and doesn’t take no shit (for the most part she has a few moments where people get the better of her but that’s okay!)
Our MMC Chase he’s just so adorable, a bit immature, but his heart is just sweet! He’s so patient and kind to our FMC and a bit too over protective as well. He’s great book boyfriend material!
I will admit some of the dialogue is a bit repetitive, but it wasn’t a deal breaker. The open and rawness of the characters and how they deal with their own traumas and PTSD was amazingly done! It had the drama, the spice was so good and definitely picks up towards the end of the book!
The ending is pretty basic , but it’s so cute and adorable! It was a great and lovely end to a wonderful drama packed book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2025
I have been here since the book started on wattpad and all I can say is it’s amazing. If you’re into hockey, coky hockey players, fake dating and HEA than it’s the perfect book for you. I’m so proud of the author for her achievements and she deserves it all. <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2025
This was so much longer than it needed to be. It just kept repeating the same things over and over.
August 2, 2025
This was such a cute hockey romance! I think I’ll add Mr.Chase to the boyfriend roster! I loved their bantering and can we talk about how freaking cute, loyal and patient Chase was? The man not only jumped in front of his rivalry to protect him but he also built his girlfriend an ICE RINK in his backyard to help her cope with her trauma in her own comfort zone so she could get back something that she loved/was apart of her. He was very respectful but also gave Emma the challenge she needed. Also can we talk about that Halloween party 🥵
I liked Emma up until closer to the end, then she aggravated me, but then she had a redemption arc and got it together. I didn’t like how she ended things with Chase with the scandal going on and two weeks before the hearing. She accused him of wanting to break up and told him that she wanted him to fight it together. I understand she wanted a united front but 1) Chase didn’t say break up, he said “fake break up” like how they did “fake dating” and honestly I think that was the right move 2) she admitted to her mom that she was wrong and still continued to make Chase feel like crap and let him grovel 3) she told Chase himself she was wrong but then was like “we have to rebuild trust” like seriously? *big eye roll* I thought in that moment Chase deserved better. I also didn’t like how Maya was “girl code” post break up, like girl you literally went ring shopping with him the day off they break up? So why aren’t you trying to make Emma see from Chases pov and help him get her back? Idk that part was annoying but overall I enjoyed Maya, I loved her character. The way she handled Carissa at the end!!! Yes queen!! I really hope this series has a second book because I think Maya has a little romance going on with Emma brother 👀
I did think though Emma was exactly what Chase needed. I loved how she helped him through his injury and trauma. It was nice reading how she helped him achieve his goals but in a way that doesn’t make him end his career early. I also loved the relationship between Emma and max 😂
I did think this book was a bit repetitive and a little longer than I would have liked but it wasn’t a deal breaker and I was a little bummed how we went through the whole book with Emma and her ptsd with ice skating, her slowly getting the courage to skate on the private rink and then all of sudden it time jumped and she’s doing figure skating skills. I felt like we kind of got robbed of her first time back. I wanted to know like how she felt, how Chase felt, how she felt having him there the whole way. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It had me laughing and giddy. Heart strings were pulled on, the ending was perfect and for this being the authors first debut, I think she did a good job!
I liked Emma up until closer to the end, then she aggravated me, but then she had a redemption arc and got it together. I didn’t like how she ended things with Chase with the scandal going on and two weeks before the hearing. She accused him of wanting to break up and told him that she wanted him to fight it together. I understand she wanted a united front but 1) Chase didn’t say break up, he said “fake break up” like how they did “fake dating” and honestly I think that was the right move 2) she admitted to her mom that she was wrong and still continued to make Chase feel like crap and let him grovel 3) she told Chase himself she was wrong but then was like “we have to rebuild trust” like seriously? *big eye roll* I thought in that moment Chase deserved better. I also didn’t like how Maya was “girl code” post break up, like girl you literally went ring shopping with him the day off they break up? So why aren’t you trying to make Emma see from Chases pov and help him get her back? Idk that part was annoying but overall I enjoyed Maya, I loved her character. The way she handled Carissa at the end!!! Yes queen!! I really hope this series has a second book because I think Maya has a little romance going on with Emma brother 👀
I did think though Emma was exactly what Chase needed. I loved how she helped him through his injury and trauma. It was nice reading how she helped him achieve his goals but in a way that doesn’t make him end his career early. I also loved the relationship between Emma and max 😂
I did think this book was a bit repetitive and a little longer than I would have liked but it wasn’t a deal breaker and I was a little bummed how we went through the whole book with Emma and her ptsd with ice skating, her slowly getting the courage to skate on the private rink and then all of sudden it time jumped and she’s doing figure skating skills. I felt like we kind of got robbed of her first time back. I wanted to know like how she felt, how Chase felt, how she felt having him there the whole way. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It had me laughing and giddy. Heart strings were pulled on, the ending was perfect and for this being the authors first debut, I think she did a good job!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2025
“Six weeks of lying to myself that I can handle this.”
“Because Emma Anderson might just be the biggest, most worthwhile risk of my life.”
❤️🩹 Forced Proximity
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🩹 Fake Dating
🏒 He Falls First
❤️🩹 Brother Rival
Review: Thank you @authorclarastjames for an ARC of your debut novel! I loved Emma & Chase so much 🥅
Emma is a physical therapist working for the Bears hockey team. Her patient, Chase Mitchell, is an infamous bad boy with a reputation for ditching his medical appointments and having relationships with medical staff. But is he really? 😈 The banter between these two right from the beginning was absolutely fantastic. I loved the stolen glances, adorable nickname (Blondie), and the absolute love between the two of them. Chase is feral for Emma and it’s the best.
I found some of the plot points a bit repetitive and some of the couples journey felt really long. For a while there in the middle it felt like one thing after another after another and that the couple wasn’t moving anywhere!
Overall, I found this book quite good. I liked the spice, the banter between the two main characters, and all of the side characters - every girl needs a friend like Maya. I’d definitely continue on with the next book in the series and I wonder who’d be featured there 👀
“Because Emma Anderson might just be the biggest, most worthwhile risk of my life.”
❤️🩹 Forced Proximity
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🩹 Fake Dating
🏒 He Falls First
❤️🩹 Brother Rival
Review: Thank you @authorclarastjames for an ARC of your debut novel! I loved Emma & Chase so much 🥅
Emma is a physical therapist working for the Bears hockey team. Her patient, Chase Mitchell, is an infamous bad boy with a reputation for ditching his medical appointments and having relationships with medical staff. But is he really? 😈 The banter between these two right from the beginning was absolutely fantastic. I loved the stolen glances, adorable nickname (Blondie), and the absolute love between the two of them. Chase is feral for Emma and it’s the best.
I found some of the plot points a bit repetitive and some of the couples journey felt really long. For a while there in the middle it felt like one thing after another after another and that the couple wasn’t moving anywhere!
Overall, I found this book quite good. I liked the spice, the banter between the two main characters, and all of the side characters - every girl needs a friend like Maya. I’d definitely continue on with the next book in the series and I wonder who’d be featured there 👀
July 29, 2025
5⭐️/4🌶️— ARC Review 🩷
Check and Chase is one of those rare reads that makes you laugh, blush, clutch your chest, and then whisper “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and you’re emotionally unwell in that love sick, kicking your feet kind of way.
Chase? A walking contradiction—fierce on the ice, soft for her, and dangerously good at making readers fall hopelessly in love. He’s the kind of book boyfriend who ruins you for all others. And Emma? She’s got sass, strength, and a heart big enough to match his intensity. Together? Pure magic.
Clara St. James masterfully balances the wit and the weight—the playful banter, the simmering tension, and the kind of emotional depth that sneaks up on you mid-swoon. It’s not just spicy and swoony; it’s soul-hugging. Like a warm hug… from a muscular, stubborn hockey player with emotional baggage and a dirty mouth.
If you want a romance that leaves you laughing, longing, and low-key emotional, Check and Chase is the book you need to drop everything for. Just don’t blame me when you catch feelings. I warned you. 💘
Check and Chase is one of those rare reads that makes you laugh, blush, clutch your chest, and then whisper “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and you’re emotionally unwell in that love sick, kicking your feet kind of way.
Chase? A walking contradiction—fierce on the ice, soft for her, and dangerously good at making readers fall hopelessly in love. He’s the kind of book boyfriend who ruins you for all others. And Emma? She’s got sass, strength, and a heart big enough to match his intensity. Together? Pure magic.
Clara St. James masterfully balances the wit and the weight—the playful banter, the simmering tension, and the kind of emotional depth that sneaks up on you mid-swoon. It’s not just spicy and swoony; it’s soul-hugging. Like a warm hug… from a muscular, stubborn hockey player with emotional baggage and a dirty mouth.
If you want a romance that leaves you laughing, longing, and low-key emotional, Check and Chase is the book you need to drop everything for. Just don’t blame me when you catch feelings. I warned you. 💘
September 9, 2025
Check and Chase completely stole my attention! I absolutely loved the storyline—it had just the right mix of tension, humor, and heart. The banter between Emma and Chase was chef’s kiss perfection, equal parts witty and charming, and it really brought their relationship to life on the page.
I’ll admit there were moments where it felt like the pacing dragged a little, but honestly, I still couldn’t put it down. Every chapter left me wanting to see how their story would unfold, and I found myself sneaking in extra pages whenever I could.
Overall, this was such an addictive, fun read. I’d definitely recommend Check and Chase to anyone who loves a hockey romance with great chemistry, playful banter, and a storyline that keeps you hooked until the very end!
I’ll admit there were moments where it felt like the pacing dragged a little, but honestly, I still couldn’t put it down. Every chapter left me wanting to see how their story would unfold, and I found myself sneaking in extra pages whenever I could.
Overall, this was such an addictive, fun read. I’d definitely recommend Check and Chase to anyone who loves a hockey romance with great chemistry, playful banter, and a storyline that keeps you hooked until the very end!
July 29, 2025
Whewwww, I’m so glad I ran to sign up for an ARC as soon as I sign ups were open because let me tell you… this did not disappoint at all, I devoured this immediately and didn’t stop until I finished it aka I stayed up till like 12am and have no regrets for it. From the very beginning, I was absolutely hooked and it’s straight perfection!! It’s got hockey with a FMC in a male dominant field (YFGG) that’ll take you on an emotional roller coaster, it’s got banter, it’s got fake turned real feelings, and it’s got spice… who doesn’t want all that?!
I absolutely loved Chase Mitchell and Emma Anderson both as their own characters and them as a couple. Despite the reputation Chase gained from someone else’s mistake, he never truly let it bother him. He kept pushing forward and with Emma, he let her see a completely different side of him that deep down was the true Chase, not the one everyone heard about and got to know. He was also a man down baaaaad and we all love that. Emma Anderson is a total badass. Not only did she figure skate at one point in time, but she became a PT in a male dominated field. She truly has been through hell and she fought her way through. Even with Chase helping a little bit for some parts. They both end up going through it while together and separately due to both of their ex’s, but in the end they come out stronger.
This was such a fun and emotional read and if I could, I would give it infinite stars!! It’s going on my list of always recommending and always talking about!!
I absolutely loved Chase Mitchell and Emma Anderson both as their own characters and them as a couple. Despite the reputation Chase gained from someone else’s mistake, he never truly let it bother him. He kept pushing forward and with Emma, he let her see a completely different side of him that deep down was the true Chase, not the one everyone heard about and got to know. He was also a man down baaaaad and we all love that. Emma Anderson is a total badass. Not only did she figure skate at one point in time, but she became a PT in a male dominated field. She truly has been through hell and she fought her way through. Even with Chase helping a little bit for some parts. They both end up going through it while together and separately due to both of their ex’s, but in the end they come out stronger.
This was such a fun and emotional read and if I could, I would give it infinite stars!! It’s going on my list of always recommending and always talking about!!
July 17, 2025
I'm a beta reader, and all I can say is that, this book? It's perfection. Cute moments? Check. Iconic characters that would do anything for each other, even face their fears? Check again. Drama? Yesarooni. Spicy scenes? Hotter than the spiciest California Reaper in existence. So, if you want perfection in the form of a book, READ THIS!
seriously, read this or I'll stand in front of your window at night.
seriously, read this or I'll stand in front of your window at night.
August 3, 2025
ARC review 🙂↕️
I enjoyed this book quite a lot! It was very sweet and I liked that you can read the whoooole story!
However, I do think it was a bit too long with less details than I expected for a book over 600 pages (on kindle, at least)👀
That being said, I really want to read the next book in the series, I have a feeling I know who the couple is and I’m really excited about it 🥺
I enjoyed this book quite a lot! It was very sweet and I liked that you can read the whoooole story!
However, I do think it was a bit too long with less details than I expected for a book over 600 pages (on kindle, at least)👀
That being said, I really want to read the next book in the series, I have a feeling I know who the couple is and I’m really excited about it 🥺
September 19, 2025
Clara’s debut novel and it was so cute!
Chase was obsessed with Emma and wasn’t giving up on winning her over! The banter. The heated sideline glances. Also, he built her a private rink to overcome her fear. Chase just listened to her, didn’t push her too far, but just enough to show he was there for her. I wasn’t sure where this was going since the timeline was pretty fast paced, but I loved their cute little ending and am excited for book 2.
Also, We all need a friend like Maya! I absolutely loved her and how she was there for Emma. & also wingwoman for Chase to get his girl.
And I also have to talk about the redemption arc for Tyler?! Wow! I went in about to throw hands with this man, but by the end rooting for him and hoping for a story for him also!
Chase was obsessed with Emma and wasn’t giving up on winning her over! The banter. The heated sideline glances. Also, he built her a private rink to overcome her fear. Chase just listened to her, didn’t push her too far, but just enough to show he was there for her. I wasn’t sure where this was going since the timeline was pretty fast paced, but I loved their cute little ending and am excited for book 2.
Also, We all need a friend like Maya! I absolutely loved her and how she was there for Emma. & also wingwoman for Chase to get his girl.
And I also have to talk about the redemption arc for Tyler?! Wow! I went in about to throw hands with this man, but by the end rooting for him and hoping for a story for him also!
September 24, 2025
This had the potential to be sooo good. But I think there was too much going on at once maybe? Like, there was a lot of different tropes that I felt took off one after another and that sort of dragged out the book? Maybe if it was more focused on the main one it would have "flowed" better, I'm not sure. But our main characters were so cute. I really liked them, especially Chase. He was a man of my own heart 🤭
August 15, 2025
really liked it, really connected with the characters!! the writing is simple, but overall a really good debut
deserves 4.5 stars 🫶🏼🫶🏼
deserves 4.5 stars 🫶🏼🫶🏼
September 13, 2025
What an amazing debut novel. I could not put this down. Gave me Stephanie Archer and Becka Mack vibes. Maybe a tad too long. But overall loved. Definitely recommend giving it a go if you love sports romances with some spice.
August 9, 2025
Brb, currently blushing!
This book was so cute and Chase was HOT. I’ve only read a one other hockey romance series (if you consider Pucking Around a romance lol) and I really enjoyed this one!
So excited for the next book in the series and to see what this author writes next!!
This book was so cute and Chase was HOT. I’ve only read a one other hockey romance series (if you consider Pucking Around a romance lol) and I really enjoyed this one!
So excited for the next book in the series and to see what this author writes next!!
September 6, 2025
Emma was completely annoying and a hypocrite. She got mad at Chase for making a decision without her input. But then made an even bigger decision later in the book when he was unable to give his input. She forgave her cheating ex who never once apologized for cheating on her faster than she forgave Chase for not asking for her input. I did like Chase. Definitely a strong MML. Until he became weak to please Emma 🙄🙄 Smut was maybe a one spicy 🌶️.
October 3, 2025
the injuries in this book kept getting less and less believable it was kind of a comedy at the end
did-not-finish
September 21, 2025DNF @ 10%
Just lost interest in reading this one and I wasn't really feeling the chemistry between the leads.
Just lost interest in reading this one and I wasn't really feeling the chemistry between the leads.
August 20, 2025
This book is professional hockey player + PT romance with some second chance sprinkled in.
I liked the storyline and how they had their first meet cute. I liked how Chase calls her Blondie and how they started fake dating. When she ran in the ice… that was absolutely a perfect scene. The reason behind the fake dating was perfect for this trope. Emma was an interesting character with her previous trauma and how professional she was with their relationship. Chase was so very sweet and just the right amount of cocky. Every time he called her Blondie I melted. Maya and Jackson are great side characters and I enjoyed them.
What I liked less was what was going on at about 65ish percent. At this point I was disappointed in Chase but I could easily get over that. It wasn’t that huge. What I struggled with was Emma and how she handled things. Again I could have gotten over that but it was drug out way too long. To the point that I began to dislike her. Once that was resolved the story could have ended there. For me, the last few chapters were not needed.
I liked the storyline and how they had their first meet cute. I liked how Chase calls her Blondie and how they started fake dating. When she ran in the ice… that was absolutely a perfect scene. The reason behind the fake dating was perfect for this trope. Emma was an interesting character with her previous trauma and how professional she was with their relationship. Chase was so very sweet and just the right amount of cocky. Every time he called her Blondie I melted. Maya and Jackson are great side characters and I enjoyed them.
What I liked less was what was going on at about 65ish percent. At this point I was disappointed in Chase but I could easily get over that. It wasn’t that huge. What I struggled with was Emma and how she handled things. Again I could have gotten over that but it was drug out way too long. To the point that I began to dislike her. Once that was resolved the story could have ended there. For me, the last few chapters were not needed.
September 1, 2025
Give me hockey and fake dating, and I am IN! Add a sprinkle of forced proximity, and you've completely got me.
I wasn’t even supposed to have this ARC—but then I saw my bestie post a reel, and I knew I needed it. So yes, I begged a little, and I GOT IT. Best. Decision. Ever.
Not. One. Note. Seriously—there is nothing that could’ve made this book better. It’s such a feel-good story about love, respect, and trusting your gut. That’s when the magic happens—and oh, it really happens here.
I cried at the big events, but also at the small, intimate moments between just the two of them. This isn't a long review, but here’s what you need to know: Chase and Emma? WORTH IT.
✨ Check & Chase releases September 18th—don’t miss it!
I wasn’t even supposed to have this ARC—but then I saw my bestie post a reel, and I knew I needed it. So yes, I begged a little, and I GOT IT. Best. Decision. Ever.
Not. One. Note. Seriously—there is nothing that could’ve made this book better. It’s such a feel-good story about love, respect, and trusting your gut. That’s when the magic happens—and oh, it really happens here.
I cried at the big events, but also at the small, intimate moments between just the two of them. This isn't a long review, but here’s what you need to know: Chase and Emma? WORTH IT.
✨ Check & Chase releases September 18th—don’t miss it!
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