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A Perfect Mess
A just-for-the-summer romance with a pro hockey player wasn’t in my plans when I moved home to Bayshore…
I’m trying to get my life back on track when I come home dumped, laid off, and adrift.
So when Griffin Keegan—my ridiculously hot high school friend turned professional hockey player—offers me his spare room for the summer, I take it. Keeping things casual should be easy. After all, he’s made it clear that hockey comes first --especially with his career on the line after an injury.
Except Griffin keeps showing up at the bar where I work to drive me home. Takes me to the farmer’s market every weekend. Treats me like I’m not a disaster on two legs.
And when he catches me in a ‘self-care’ moment?
Things…escalate.
We agree to friends with benefits. No feelings, no future. His only priority can be hockey once summer ends.
But my heart keeps missing the memo. I cannot fall for a muscled, protective man who believes love and hockey can’t co-exist.
I’m supposed to get my life together…but I’m in a bigger mess than ever.
Now I need to choose between the life I left in Chicago…and the one I accidentally built with him.
This is book #2 of the Bayshore - Keegan family series. These are interconnected stand-alones featuring different siblings of the Keegan family, each with their own HEA.
I’m trying to get my life back on track when I come home dumped, laid off, and adrift.
So when Griffin Keegan—my ridiculously hot high school friend turned professional hockey player—offers me his spare room for the summer, I take it. Keeping things casual should be easy. After all, he’s made it clear that hockey comes first --especially with his career on the line after an injury.
Except Griffin keeps showing up at the bar where I work to drive me home. Takes me to the farmer’s market every weekend. Treats me like I’m not a disaster on two legs.
And when he catches me in a ‘self-care’ moment?
Things…escalate.
We agree to friends with benefits. No feelings, no future. His only priority can be hockey once summer ends.
But my heart keeps missing the memo. I cannot fall for a muscled, protective man who believes love and hockey can’t co-exist.
I’m supposed to get my life together…but I’m in a bigger mess than ever.
Now I need to choose between the life I left in Chicago…and the one I accidentally built with him.
This is book #2 of the Bayshore - Keegan family series. These are interconnected stand-alones featuring different siblings of the Keegan family, each with their own HEA.
- GenresRomance
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 21, 2026
I absolutely adored Casey and Griffin. Casey is just the most sweetest person and she had me in hysterics with her antics and crazy ways. Griffin was Casey’s high school crush and when she moves back home after she loses everything she did not realise that she would be sharing a house with Griffin. They both are attracted to each other but neither is prepared for what is happening between them. We meet so many wonder characters along the way but it is the growth of the relationship between Griffin and Casey that will hold your attention. So many great and fun moments but also so many hot moments where the chemistry burns. Loving reading all the books by Ember Leigh.
July 22, 2026
5 Perfectly Messy Stars!
A Perfect Mess is book 2 in the Bayshore: The Keegans series.
The whole story was perfect and just what I needed. It was happy and funny, sweet and sincere, deep and emotional. It all just came together so beautifully.
This is Griffin and Casey’s story. They are childhood friends. He is now a pro hockey player back home for the summer while recovering from an injury. She is headed back home to recover from a string of disappointing life changes that she finds herself facing suddenly. They reconnect and their friendship picks up stronger than before and the sparks fly. Neither is wanting a relationship at this point in their lives, but can they deny the attraction.
The banter between Griffin and Casey is top tier. There were times I had to pause my reading because I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes and couldn’t see the pages anymore. I want to talk about a specific scene so bad, but I also refuse to spoil it for you! Cough chapter 11 cough. It is one of the most hilarious scenes I’ve ever read! Be prepared to laugh hysterically.
This is a romcom but we definitely get some spicy scenes. And the spice is spicing! Ember really knows how to write and bring the heat! The chemistry between Casey and Griffin is undeniable.
Toward the end I was sure I knew what was going to happen and how it was going to end. Getting there though, had me in a complete chokehold. The emotions in this book are real and powerful. As I was reading I had this deep ache in my chest. It was like my heart was actually breaking. I kept checking my time left to see if there was enough time for things to work out. I was reading and flipping pages, just an absolute perfect mess!
I loved getting to see where Griff’s sister and Kru are at since the end of A Perfect Match. Learning more about the other siblings and what their stories might be about. I also loved seeing the original Bayshore crew popping up!
I enjoyed it so much, I have the ebook that I read and I’m currently waiting for both cover versions of the paperback to get here. I’ll probably get the audio eventually so I can make my husband listen to it, since he refuses to read.
I’m really looking forward to the next installment, A Perfect Trouble-Maker!
If Ember writes it, I’m reading it! You should too! She never disappoints.
A Perfect Mess is book 2 in the Bayshore: The Keegans series.
The whole story was perfect and just what I needed. It was happy and funny, sweet and sincere, deep and emotional. It all just came together so beautifully.
This is Griffin and Casey’s story. They are childhood friends. He is now a pro hockey player back home for the summer while recovering from an injury. She is headed back home to recover from a string of disappointing life changes that she finds herself facing suddenly. They reconnect and their friendship picks up stronger than before and the sparks fly. Neither is wanting a relationship at this point in their lives, but can they deny the attraction.
The banter between Griffin and Casey is top tier. There were times I had to pause my reading because I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes and couldn’t see the pages anymore. I want to talk about a specific scene so bad, but I also refuse to spoil it for you! Cough chapter 11 cough. It is one of the most hilarious scenes I’ve ever read! Be prepared to laugh hysterically.
This is a romcom but we definitely get some spicy scenes. And the spice is spicing! Ember really knows how to write and bring the heat! The chemistry between Casey and Griffin is undeniable.
Toward the end I was sure I knew what was going to happen and how it was going to end. Getting there though, had me in a complete chokehold. The emotions in this book are real and powerful. As I was reading I had this deep ache in my chest. It was like my heart was actually breaking. I kept checking my time left to see if there was enough time for things to work out. I was reading and flipping pages, just an absolute perfect mess!
I loved getting to see where Griff’s sister and Kru are at since the end of A Perfect Match. Learning more about the other siblings and what their stories might be about. I also loved seeing the original Bayshore crew popping up!
I enjoyed it so much, I have the ebook that I read and I’m currently waiting for both cover versions of the paperback to get here. I’ll probably get the audio eventually so I can make my husband listen to it, since he refuses to read.
I’m really looking forward to the next installment, A Perfect Trouble-Maker!
If Ember writes it, I’m reading it! You should too! She never disappoints.
July 23, 2026
I DEVOURED this book!!! If you're a book lover (maybe even one who likes to write reviews!!?) ;) and love sweet romances and/or hockey romances.... full of heart & emotion and witty banter... and slow burn tension.... you won't want to miss this book!!!
I love the characters - Griffin is struggling with being 30 & on the older side of a professional hockey player... and recovering from a major injury ... so he doesn't know what to expect from the future - this fall.... this is a side of hockey romances that we don't often see... the characters are open, honest & relatable.
Casey is feeling a little lost as well... she feels criticized by her older sister, who is getting married this summer... she just broke up with her ex of several years....and she's back in her hometown for the summer for a break, trying to figure things out.
I love that Griffin & Casey are longtime friends.... they've known each other since kindergarten, and both secretly have liked each other for a long time... they have a great friendship & I love their banter... and the shower scene had me laughing for a long time.... I love that Griffin sees the real Casey & helps her realize that she's not just a mess... but there are reasons for things.... and that he encouraged her to spend time with her sister & that she was able to mend that relationship...
I love Griffin's family!! The Keegan family is amazing.... a large family, they get together regularly and laugh and have fun, play games, tease each other.... everyone's dream family!! I love that "Mama Keegan" insisted Casey join them....
This is Book 2 in the Bayshore - the Keegans series. I have not read Book 1 yet, but I will be rectifying that soon!!! And I can't wait to read the rest of the series!! The books are interconnected standalones, you can read this book alone, or read the series out of order. (obviously it's best to read them in order, but I also understand sometimes it's not that simple!)
Spice level: 3/5
*hockey romance
*sports romance
*emotional romance
*rom com
*small town
*long time friends
*friends to lovers
*forced proximity
*roommates
*family relationship issues that get resolved
*ADHD rep
*told in a dual 1st person POV
Thank you to the author (Ember Leigh), publisher (Books on Vine LLC) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I love the characters - Griffin is struggling with being 30 & on the older side of a professional hockey player... and recovering from a major injury ... so he doesn't know what to expect from the future - this fall.... this is a side of hockey romances that we don't often see... the characters are open, honest & relatable.
Casey is feeling a little lost as well... she feels criticized by her older sister, who is getting married this summer... she just broke up with her ex of several years....and she's back in her hometown for the summer for a break, trying to figure things out.
I love that Griffin & Casey are longtime friends.... they've known each other since kindergarten, and both secretly have liked each other for a long time... they have a great friendship & I love their banter... and the shower scene had me laughing for a long time.... I love that Griffin sees the real Casey & helps her realize that she's not just a mess... but there are reasons for things.... and that he encouraged her to spend time with her sister & that she was able to mend that relationship...
I love Griffin's family!! The Keegan family is amazing.... a large family, they get together regularly and laugh and have fun, play games, tease each other.... everyone's dream family!! I love that "Mama Keegan" insisted Casey join them....
This is Book 2 in the Bayshore - the Keegans series. I have not read Book 1 yet, but I will be rectifying that soon!!! And I can't wait to read the rest of the series!! The books are interconnected standalones, you can read this book alone, or read the series out of order. (obviously it's best to read them in order, but I also understand sometimes it's not that simple!)
Spice level: 3/5
*hockey romance
*sports romance
*emotional romance
*rom com
*small town
*long time friends
*friends to lovers
*forced proximity
*roommates
*family relationship issues that get resolved
*ADHD rep
*told in a dual 1st person POV
Thank you to the author (Ember Leigh), publisher (Books on Vine LLC) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sports romances continue to be one of my favorite comfort reads, and hockey romances are always near the top of the list. After reading the description of this book, I had a feeling it would be a great fit for me. Even though this is the second book in the series and I have not read the first one, I had no trouble jumping into the story. I am definitely interested in going back to read Piper's book after finishing this one.
I really liked both Casey and Griffin from the very beginning. I enjoyed learning about their longtime friendship and seeing how naturally it evolved into something more. Casey was especially easy to root for. My heart hurt for her because it seemed like she was constantly being compared to everyone else, especially within her own family. I completely understood why she struggled with her confidence. Griffin, on the other hand, always saw Casey for who she truly was. I loved that he encouraged her to pursue getting evaluated for ADHD and supported her as she explored her passion for book reviewing instead of trying to change who she was.
One of my favorite parts of the story was watching Casey slowly become more confident in herself. Griffin gave her the support she needed, but she was still the one who had to take those important steps forward. I also really felt for Griffin. As much as he cared about Casey, his fears about balancing a professional hockey career with a serious relationship often caused him to get in his own way. It was frustrating at times, but it also made his character feel realistic. I found myself rooting for both of them to figure things out.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet friends-to-lovers romance with plenty of heart and some meaningful conversations about self-worth and finding the courage to follow your own path. I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes next, and I definitely plan to go back and read the first book as well.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I really liked both Casey and Griffin from the very beginning. I enjoyed learning about their longtime friendship and seeing how naturally it evolved into something more. Casey was especially easy to root for. My heart hurt for her because it seemed like she was constantly being compared to everyone else, especially within her own family. I completely understood why she struggled with her confidence. Griffin, on the other hand, always saw Casey for who she truly was. I loved that he encouraged her to pursue getting evaluated for ADHD and supported her as she explored her passion for book reviewing instead of trying to change who she was.
One of my favorite parts of the story was watching Casey slowly become more confident in herself. Griffin gave her the support she needed, but she was still the one who had to take those important steps forward. I also really felt for Griffin. As much as he cared about Casey, his fears about balancing a professional hockey career with a serious relationship often caused him to get in his own way. It was frustrating at times, but it also made his character feel realistic. I found myself rooting for both of them to figure things out.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet friends-to-lovers romance with plenty of heart and some meaningful conversations about self-worth and finding the courage to follow your own path. I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes next, and I definitely plan to go back and read the first book as well.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from Author
**A Perfect Mess** by Ember Leigh is a laugh-out-loud hilarious hockey romance packed with second chances, a possessive MMC, and a hot-mess-express FMC you'll absolutely adore.
Casey and Griffin are one of the sweetest couples I've read in a long time. After Casey's life in Chicago completely falls apart, she returns to her hometown to figure out what's next. Griffin is also back home for the summer, recovering from an ACL injury during the hockey offseason. The two were best friends throughout middle and high school, both secretly crushing on each other without ever realizing the feelings were mutual.
As adults, those feelings never truly disappeared. Griffin struggles to admit how he feels, still carrying the grief and fear of losing his father. Casey battles years of self-doubt and insecurity after constantly being made to feel like she wasn't enough. Watching them slowly heal, overcome their pasts, and finally realize they deserve happiness together made their love story incredibly rewarding.
OMG...the shower scene is absolutely *to die for!* I was laughing so hard! 😂 If you know, you know!
What I love most about Ember Leigh's writing is her ability to blend humor with meaningful, real-life topics like mental health, grief, self-worth, and insecurity in a way that feels authentic and relatable. The emotional moments never overshadow the comedy, and the comedy never takes away from the emotional depth.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, hilarious hockey romance filled with chemistry, emotional healing, small-town charm, and unforgettable moments, **A Perfect Mess** is one you won't want to miss!
Casey and Griffin are one of the sweetest couples I've read in a long time. After Casey's life in Chicago completely falls apart, she returns to her hometown to figure out what's next. Griffin is also back home for the summer, recovering from an ACL injury during the hockey offseason. The two were best friends throughout middle and high school, both secretly crushing on each other without ever realizing the feelings were mutual.
As adults, those feelings never truly disappeared. Griffin struggles to admit how he feels, still carrying the grief and fear of losing his father. Casey battles years of self-doubt and insecurity after constantly being made to feel like she wasn't enough. Watching them slowly heal, overcome their pasts, and finally realize they deserve happiness together made their love story incredibly rewarding.
OMG...the shower scene is absolutely *to die for!* I was laughing so hard! 😂 If you know, you know!
What I love most about Ember Leigh's writing is her ability to blend humor with meaningful, real-life topics like mental health, grief, self-worth, and insecurity in a way that feels authentic and relatable. The emotional moments never overshadow the comedy, and the comedy never takes away from the emotional depth.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, hilarious hockey romance filled with chemistry, emotional healing, small-town charm, and unforgettable moments, **A Perfect Mess** is one you won't want to miss!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ember Leigh has done it AGAIN!! I have loved every book I have read by her and this series is so much fun!! I devoured A Perfect Match and I couldn't wait for this book to get here. I also devoured this one as well. Griffin & Casey were everything I could have wanted and more! This book had me laughing like an absolute fool so many times, swooning hard (GRIFFIN IS A BOOK BOYFRIEND), smiling like crazy, got a little emotional, my heart was melting, blushed a few times and then I was left with an amazing ending!
Griffin is what dreams are made of! This man has a heart of gold when it comes to Casey even though he really didn't want to have a relationship because of his chaotic hockey career. These two both have things that they fear about relationships but together they just might figure things out. It definitely helps when you start as friends with amazing chemistry.
I love a story where the characters help each other discover each other's greatness and see that they are truly wonderful. So if that sounds like something you'd like or you love hockey romance then this book will be perfect for you. I love how Ember writes her stories with so much love and empowerment in them. I always walk away with a huge smile on my face when I finish her books. I highly recommend this book and this series. I would also recommend anything that Ember writes as well.
Thank you Ember Leigh for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Griffin is what dreams are made of! This man has a heart of gold when it comes to Casey even though he really didn't want to have a relationship because of his chaotic hockey career. These two both have things that they fear about relationships but together they just might figure things out. It definitely helps when you start as friends with amazing chemistry.
I love a story where the characters help each other discover each other's greatness and see that they are truly wonderful. So if that sounds like something you'd like or you love hockey romance then this book will be perfect for you. I love how Ember writes her stories with so much love and empowerment in them. I always walk away with a huge smile on my face when I finish her books. I highly recommend this book and this series. I would also recommend anything that Ember writes as well.
Thank you Ember Leigh for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5 Stars for these friends-to-lovers!
I loved Casey and Griffin. Casey was kind of scatterbrained, but she made me laugh-out-loud so many times … I had to put down my iPad and wipe away happy tears. Then there’s Griffin … who wouldn’t love a hockey hunk with a heart of gold. This book is not only funny, it’s emotional and very steamy … my iPad was just smoking! The banter was very realistic, and I just wanted to live in their world for longer. This was a fabulous addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next book.
After Casey looses her boyfriend (their apartment) and her job all in one day, she decides to go back home to regroup over the summer. She could stay with family, but when her high school crush offers the spare room in his house she readily agrees. Griffin plays in the NHL and is recovering from an injury since the middle of last season, in his home town. He thought Casey was cute in high school, but she’s dropdead gorgeous now and he has no problem sharing his space with her. The only problem is it will all end when summer is over.
I received an ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
I loved Casey and Griffin. Casey was kind of scatterbrained, but she made me laugh-out-loud so many times … I had to put down my iPad and wipe away happy tears. Then there’s Griffin … who wouldn’t love a hockey hunk with a heart of gold. This book is not only funny, it’s emotional and very steamy … my iPad was just smoking! The banter was very realistic, and I just wanted to live in their world for longer. This was a fabulous addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next book.
After Casey looses her boyfriend (their apartment) and her job all in one day, she decides to go back home to regroup over the summer. She could stay with family, but when her high school crush offers the spare room in his house she readily agrees. Griffin plays in the NHL and is recovering from an injury since the middle of last season, in his home town. He thought Casey was cute in high school, but she’s dropdead gorgeous now and he has no problem sharing his space with her. The only problem is it will all end when summer is over.
I received an ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
July 25, 2026
A Perfect Mess is the second story in the Bayshore (The Keegans) series. This is my first story from this author but won't be the last. It is well-written and very entertaining.
Griffin and Casey were childhood friends. He is now an older hockey player who is having trouble with his age. He has an injury and is recovering but worried about his future in the sport. Casey is struggling with how her older sister acts. Her sister is getting married and Casey is back in town for the wedding. Casey's life back home is not going well. She doesn't know what is next in her life. When Griffin and Casey reunite, their feelings never left. They have always secretly cared for each other. But both of them have their own struggles.
I loved the way that Griffin and Casey were old friends who saw each other again. Their feelings were still there after all the time that had passed. I loved how they helped each other and were so good together. Their story is about what it means to care for someone who helps you heal and become a better person. I look forward to more from this talented author.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy.
Griffin and Casey were childhood friends. He is now an older hockey player who is having trouble with his age. He has an injury and is recovering but worried about his future in the sport. Casey is struggling with how her older sister acts. Her sister is getting married and Casey is back in town for the wedding. Casey's life back home is not going well. She doesn't know what is next in her life. When Griffin and Casey reunite, their feelings never left. They have always secretly cared for each other. But both of them have their own struggles.
I loved the way that Griffin and Casey were old friends who saw each other again. Their feelings were still there after all the time that had passed. I loved how they helped each other and were so good together. Their story is about what it means to care for someone who helps you heal and become a better person. I look forward to more from this talented author.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy.
July 22, 2026
I just did a re-read of all of Ember’s books to prepare for this book. It had been a while since I’d read them and wanted to re-live all of the Bayshore books. I was glad I did. A Perfect Match flowed seamlessly into A Perfect Mess. Plus the other books are so good, it was fun to enjoy them again!!!
The thing that initially drew me to Ember’s books was that the Bayshore series is set in northeast Ohio (not far from where I live). I love being able to picture things in my head actually knowing where they are.
Griffin is a professional hockey player in Cleveland (gotta love a good hockey book!) out with an injury so he’s recovering at his house in Bayshore. Casey is from Bayshore and was friends with Griffin in school but moved to Chicago. She just lost her job, boyfriend and apartment so she came home to Bayshore for the summer and her sister’s wedding. Running into her friend (and high school crush) Griffin makes for an amazing summer.
Absolutely loved this story. Griffin is so sweet and caring and perfectly balances out Chaotic Casey, who later figures out she has ADHD. The banter between the two, is hands down so much fun. They encourage each other in ways they didn’t know (or didn’t want to admit) they needed. Along the way they fell in love but were too scared to admit it to each other.
An awesome read and am very sad the next book doesn’t come out for a year!
Lastly, if the above doesn’t convince you to check this out, the shower scene in chapter 11 was one of the funniest things I’ve ever read! I laughed so hard my chest hurt and I had tears running down my face. SO FUNNY!
The thing that initially drew me to Ember’s books was that the Bayshore series is set in northeast Ohio (not far from where I live). I love being able to picture things in my head actually knowing where they are.
Griffin is a professional hockey player in Cleveland (gotta love a good hockey book!) out with an injury so he’s recovering at his house in Bayshore. Casey is from Bayshore and was friends with Griffin in school but moved to Chicago. She just lost her job, boyfriend and apartment so she came home to Bayshore for the summer and her sister’s wedding. Running into her friend (and high school crush) Griffin makes for an amazing summer.
Absolutely loved this story. Griffin is so sweet and caring and perfectly balances out Chaotic Casey, who later figures out she has ADHD. The banter between the two, is hands down so much fun. They encourage each other in ways they didn’t know (or didn’t want to admit) they needed. Along the way they fell in love but were too scared to admit it to each other.
An awesome read and am very sad the next book doesn’t come out for a year!
Lastly, if the above doesn’t convince you to check this out, the shower scene in chapter 11 was one of the funniest things I’ve ever read! I laughed so hard my chest hurt and I had tears running down my face. SO FUNNY!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Perfect Mess by Ember Leigh is a charming, emotional, and delightfully messy friends-to-lovers hockey romance that proves sometimes the person who knows you best is the one who has been there all along. Set in the backdrop of a cozy small-town world of Bayshore, we are introduced to the MMC Griffin Keegan, a professional hockey player, and a woman trying to rebuild her life after everything falls apart. One of the strongest parts of this story I enjoyed was the relationship between Griffin and the heroine. Their history gave the romance a natural foundation, allowing their connection to develop through small moments of trust, comfort, and understanding. Overall, A Perfect Mess was a sweet and satisfying addition to the Bayshore series that I enjoyed reading.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you both for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel!
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you both for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We’re back in the beloved Bayshore! And this one even has cameos from the couple who started it all off! This was a perfect read! Casey is home with her tail between her legs, trying to get a grip on her life after everything that’s happened in Chicago, you know who’s also in town? Childhood crush and NHL’er Griffin Keegan, who on his off season. Both are in recovery mode, Casey from her Chicago life and Griffin from an injury and when Griffin offers Casey somewhere to land for the summer - their chemistry and tensions burn! Ridiculously hot, neither knowing about each others crushes and point blank denying it to everyone else too. Full of banter and giggles with all the family found vibes from the Keegans! Love Momma K’s new found abilities!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After life forces Casey Hart back to the hometown she thought she had left behind for good, the last person she expects to see is Griffin Keegan. The easygoing hockey star has always made her feel seen in ways no one else ever could, yet both of them are carrying dreams, disappointments, and fears they would rather keep hidden. As old memories turn into new possibilities, every unexpected encounter makes it harder to pretend their connection is only part of the past. Filled with heartfelt moments, irresistible chemistry, and just the right amount of chaos, this story proves that sometimes the most unforgettable chapter begins when everything else seems to be falling apart.
July 27, 2026
Ah, I always look forward to reading Ember's books. I get exactly what I love out of my romances - lol incidents, sweet moments, steamy scenes, and a HEA to leave me feeling complete. I feel like I can relate to being a hot mess, and having crushed on someone from school, but to see it play out that you actually get your crush and it's better than you could've pictured? Yes, please! A Perfect Mess is your perfect next read, don't let it get buried in your TBR!
I received an advanced copy of the book and am leaving an honest review.
My rating system:
5=will read again
4=recommend to everyone
3=recommend to anyone liking that particular writing style/trope
2=do not recommend
1=DNF
I received an advanced copy of the book and am leaving an honest review.
My rating system:
5=will read again
4=recommend to everyone
3=recommend to anyone liking that particular writing style/trope
2=do not recommend
1=DNF
July 22, 2026
A Perfect Mess is a sweet, funny friends to lovers hockey romance that I couldn't put down!!
What you get....
♡Hockey Romance
♡Small Town Romance
♡Friends To Friends With Benefits To Lovers
♡Pro Hockey Player
♡Roommates
♡A “Just For The summer” Arrangement
♡Aspiring Booktokker FMC
♡Neurodivergent Rep
♡LOL Moments
Casey is adorable and chaotic in the best way, and Griffin is the steady, loyal guy who has always seen her worth. Their chemistry is off the charts 🥵🥵🥵, their growth is beautiful, and the humor is perfect!! I devoured their story!!
What you get....
♡Hockey Romance
♡Small Town Romance
♡Friends To Friends With Benefits To Lovers
♡Pro Hockey Player
♡Roommates
♡A “Just For The summer” Arrangement
♡Aspiring Booktokker FMC
♡Neurodivergent Rep
♡LOL Moments
Casey is adorable and chaotic in the best way, and Griffin is the steady, loyal guy who has always seen her worth. Their chemistry is off the charts 🥵🥵🥵, their growth is beautiful, and the humor is perfect!! I devoured their story!!
July 21, 2026
Ember has a way of blending raw, emotional moments with humor, spice and romance. I loved Casey and Griffin, childhood best friends, who both had crushes on each other but never realized the feelings were mutual.
The friendship between Casey and Griffin is the perfect foundation for their relationship. They both have fears when it comes to relationships and with Casey staying with Griffin, it gives them the opportunity to open up to each other.
The friendship between Casey and Griffin is the perfect foundation for their relationship. They both have fears when it comes to relationships and with Casey staying with Griffin, it gives them the opportunity to open up to each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Griffin and Casey were honestly meant to be together! We have all had that one relationship with a friend that we’re scared of losing if things progress. I love that Casey is a book lover and she finds herself and takes the leap in a new career. Griffin is so supportive of her and you can feel the love between them. So glad it’s a HEA.
Review of advance copy
Casey and Griff were the perfect couple! The chemistry between them was perfect and the banter was on point. My favorite part of this story, though, was the book rec bartender. I adore this idea, and wish that I could find one in my town!
I recommend this for anyone looking for a sweet, spicy rom-com!
I recommend this for anyone looking for a sweet, spicy rom-com!
July 21, 2026
Oh my goodness I absolutely adored this book. I always love when school mates meet up years later. When they realize they have feelings for for each other. However Griffin is trying to rehab his leg for a return to the NHL and Casey is a accident waiting to happen can they make it work.
July 21, 2026
This was funny, romantic, engaging, thought provoking and above all else a pleasure to read.
It caught and held me to the end of a perfect read of A Perfect Mess by Ember Leigh
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
It caught and held me to the end of a perfect read of A Perfect Mess by Ember Leigh
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
July 24, 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dual POV
HEA; interconnected standalone - Book 2 of The Keegans series (spin off series of Bayshore)
Thank you Ember Leigh and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC copy.
*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dual POV
HEA; interconnected standalone - Book 2 of The Keegans series (spin off series of Bayshore)
Thank you Ember Leigh and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC copy.
*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
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July 11, 20263
Puntos menos porque ella nunca tuvo una buena vida sexual y ninguna de sus parejas la llevó al orgasmo.
Puntos menos porque ella nunca tuvo una buena vida sexual y ninguna de sus parejas la llevó al orgasmo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
Griffin and Casey! Loved these too so much! I loved her chaotic energy and his caring ways! This was a great little story! I can’t wait for more in this world! Great steamy moments too! 😜
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a sweet and easy read. Griff is a professional hockey player worried about his future in the league. Casey is at a crossroad in her life as well. When she returns home the two reconnect as friends but quickly evolve into so much more. I found Casey to be a very relatable character and enjoyed her storyline. This is the second book in a series but is able to be read as a standalone. I will be reading book 1 soon and can't wait for more from this author.
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