Your Only Redemption

Ravens Hockey #5

by Vee Taylor

You can’t outrun your past, but maybe you can rewrite your future.Austin Hart is back in Chicago—sober, in therapy, and doing his best to rebuild his life. Between helping his mom with his little half-sister and coaching at his stepdad’s hockey program, he’s trying to find his footing. But when his health insurance runs out and he needs a lifeline to keep his sobriety on track, he’s desperate enough to consider something crazy.

Charlotte “Charlie” Sinclair is done with her high-society southern family and the endless pressure to settle down. She’s finally found her own way, teaching kindergarten in a new city, far from the expectations that nearly suffocated her. When she meets Austin picking up his stepsister, she sees a man trying his best, and when he asks her to marry him so he can keep his health insurance, it feels like a solution to both their problems.

Austin’s not new to impulsive decisions—this isn’t his first spontaneous marriage—but this time, things feel different. Charlie helps him believe he’s more than his past, while Austin shows her she’s worthy of love just the way she is. But when he crosses paths with a child he never knew existed—someone who instantly changes everything—Austin is forced to confront his past and decide if he can keep moving forward without losing himself…or Charlie.

This is a story about learning to forgive yourself, and discovering that sometimes redemption isn’t about fixing the past, but building a future.

Your Only Redemption is book five in the Ravens hockey series. It is marriage of convenience, grumpy x sunshine, redemption arc

Genres: Hockey, Sports Romance

Kindle Edition

Expected publication January 20, 2026

Reviews

[Mora]

Self note + for safety gang (I know this might be a sensitive subject for some readers)

Maybe major spoiler!


Book 3 is about this MMC who struggles with addiction and his ex.
He married his ex before the FMC of this book and knocked her up, but he didn’t know he had a child. They break up, so there’s no HEA in Book 3

This makes me feel like the FMC of this book is second best (even if she isn’t), because he did everything with his ex in book 3 and the fact that this MMC has feelings for and sex scenes with both women makes me even more uncomfortable.

His ex also moves on, and book 4 is about her and her new MMC.

From other reviews: this book ends with the MMC and his ex co-parenting their four-year-old daughter and being very present in each other’s lives.


Book 3: H1 & h1
Book 4: H2 & h1
Book 5: H1 & h2

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like to believe that Vee wrote this with me in mind because THISSSS is what I mean when I say I want ✨emotional intimacy✨!!!!!!

Ever since reading book #3 in this series, I’ve been dying for Austin’s story. Heck, ever since book #1 where were first introduced to him. Over the course of this series, he has changed and struggled and grown so much and all I wanted was his HEA 🩷

While technically you can read this as a standalone, I highly recommend reading at least book #3 first, which is the first real look at Austin Hart. I also loved books #1 and #2, so you can of course start there as well 📖✨ while I did struggle with book #4, I do think it plays a really important role in Austin’s overarching story and if you truly want the full picture, you should reaching #3, #4, and #5 in order.

5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
- marriage of convenience
- benefits to lovers
- roommates
- found family
- hockey romance

~ please check triggers and protect your peace!
~ an abundance of emotional intimacy (but also some hot physical intimacy)
~ 10/10 communication
~ vulnerability from both characters
~ the mirror scene >>>> iykyk

OUT JANUARY 20TH!! thank you Vee for the ARC! 🩵

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Austin's journey towards sobriety and bettering himself for him, not Nova or anyone was such a long journey but Charlie helped him so much. Reading previous books, we know how Austin ended up here, working on himself and doing so well but he still felt unsure if his true worth. Charlie changed that, she saw him, the man that fought tooth and nail to enter himself. She truly saw the best in him and supported him. Austin did the same for her, she was trying to get away from her controlling mom and Austin showed her all the best things about herself. Together they grew as individuals and as a couple.

[Sonja Charters · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm back with book 5 of the Ravens Hockey series and having loved the rest of the series so far, I couldn't miss out on Austin's redemption story.

 

Sorry spoilers, but this book once again follows on directly from book 4 and relates back a lot to book 3 in the series, so I definitely think this should be read in order so that you can really understand and follow the character progression throughout this story.

 

Saying that, I definitely can't say too much about the content of this storyline - but we follow Austin as he finally comes home and finds his safe space - with the wonderful Charlie.

 

This was such a heart-wrenching read especially having followed Austin through his trauma so far, so all the emotions were flowing through this one.

 

Charlie came with her own insecurities and having met her briefly in the last book, it was really lovely to get to fully know her here and see just how the relationship between her and Austin developed.

 

I still have a few issues with the timelines in this book and feel that things happen at an astounded pace - I definitely had to suspend belief for certain elements.

I also really didn't love the initial reasoning for Austin's proposal - which came across like he had learned nothing at all.

 

But!

I still really loved seeing how things came together gradually and Austin and Charlie worked through their individual issues together, finding an amazing bond together to tackle everything that came their way in the end.

 

This was such a great way to finish Austin and Nova's stories - but given we already know who we'll be seeing in book 6, I'm sure we'll be seeing some more of these characters too.

 

I'm already looking forward to seeing how this series ends and can't wait to see how Luna works things out in the next book - I think it's going to be even spicier than the others.....

[Isandra Arriaga-Vargas · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review 📚✨

Wow, absolutely what I need to read. Austin and Charlie, have to be my favorite. I don’t think I can write a proper review without spoilers but I’ll try to just give a small summary lol. This book follows Austin after his time in rehab and him coming back to Chicago and continuing his sobriety. Unfortunately he aged out of his mom’s insurance so he needs to find a way to get coverage to afford his therapy and meds, enters Charlie who happens to be a teacher at the school Evie, Austin’s sister attends. Who doesn’t love a good marriage of convenience trope. A few months later Austin finds out he has a 4 year old daughter. This book was the perfect ending for both Austin and Nova, we see each of them getting their happy ending which they both very much deserved, they both went through a lot together and individually and the fact that they are coparenting and all became a blended family showing how they finally found their person. I cried lots of tears reading this book but that’s nothing new considering Vee loves to make me cry lol

Thank you to author Vee Taylor for allowing me to be part of her ARC team!

[Kaelian Aldrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤ARC review of Your Only Redemption by Vee Taylor🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

THANK YOU Vee for allowing me to ARC read for you again.

Your Only Redemption is book # 5 in the Ravens Hockey Series. I’d highly recommend reading book 3 & 4 as all three books follow the story of Austin and Nova.

Tropes:
Retired hockey player x kindergarten teacher
Grumpy x sunshine
Marriage of convenience
Friends with benefits to lovers
Forced proximity
Addiction recovery

First off, based on the Austin we met back in book 3 ( Your Biggest Downfall), I was coming into this already thinking he’d have a lot of making up to do to get me to even consider liking him. I was an emotional wreck to say the least lol. Book 4 ( Your Second Chance) we got to see things from the perspective of Nova. Getting a teaser of things to come, I was beginning to warm up to this new version of Austin. I just knew that Vee would not disappoint when it came to Austin redeeming himself, and I was right. Your Only Redemption was absolute perfection.

The book starts off with Austin years after completing addiction recovery and sober living in California. With the encouragement of his mom and step father, he decides to move back home to Chicago to help out with his little sister and coach a kids hockey program. Unfortunately, since turning 26, he can no longer stay on his mother’s insurance policy and is forced to find a way to afford his necessary ongoing medical care.

This is where we meet our new FMC Charlie. Charlie is new to the city, trying to find her own way as a kindergarten teacher, as far away from her Mother’s high society expectations. She and Austin meet at school pick up for his little sister, and their friendship blossoms from there. Austin, with a history of being impulsive, suggests the two marry. He gets insurance coverage to keep him on the straight and narrow, Charlie gets her mother off her back from trying to dictate her future. Just when Austin and Charlie are ready to admit this “ fake” marriage may not be fake at all, his past collides with the present and changes everything.

My opinion of Austin changed significantly after reading this book. It reminded me that if a person truly wants to change for the better, they can. But in order to be successful, that change needs to be for themselves and not for others.

If Vee writes it, I’m reading it! If you haven’t started the Ravens Hockey Series, what are you waiting for?!

Favorite Quote :
“ I didn’t deserve this chance at a life that felt real and whole. Maybe that was part of the journey- to face the darkness and fight, to want redemption enough to carve it out of the ashes of my past. To learn that even the villains, if they’re willing to change, can be worth saving”.

[Dawn Cornelius · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

It is recommended to read Books 3 & 4 before reading this one as they do interconnect between characters in all 3 books.

We are finally getting Austin's POV of his addiction, recovery and learning he is a father.

The story picks up 5 years after Austin entered rehab for his addiction and he is moving back to Chicago to help out with his younger sister and work with Ledger at his hockey camp.

Charlie is introduced as a kindergarten teacher who moved from GA to get away from an overbearing mother and build a life on her own terms.

When Austin and Charlie meet, the sparks seem to fly immediately and their first date shows how far Austin has grown with his recovery in how open and honest he is which I loved seeing this side of him.

When Austin's insurance is being cancelled and learning Charlie's job would cover a spouse, he presents her with an idea of marriage of covenience for both of them - he gets insurance and she gets her mom off her back in searching for a "suitable husband".

The story unfolds with Austin learning how to face his recovery path daily and Charlie learning to love herself despite never feeling worthy.

I really enjoyed these two growing together and the reality of their miscommuncations throughout them getting to know each other after the wedding. It was so pure and real in times he felt he was putting her first, but her reality was feeling second best. I loved that Charlie could give Austin such a safe space to reveal his darkest secrets and vice versa.

Austin really won me over in this book - he was able to openly discuss his past, his shortcomings, and be honest with those in his life of how they failed him when he was failing himself. It was beautfiul to see him heal relationships.

The one thing about Austin that kind of bothered me was jumping right into another marriage. I get why it needed to happen, but he was supposed to have learned from his past but his impulse issues went into overdrive with it all happening in one day when he had 3 months to sort out his insurance.

Charlie was a character that I did like for Austin, but I found her to be selfish at times when she knew more of Austin's struggles than anyone and he was always honest with her about his past especially Nova so her jealousy just felt overdone at time with that.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and am so happy Austin got his HEA! I loved the blended family aspect of it when he met his daughter and how they all truly did what was best for her.

Thanks to Vee Taylor for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Mariah · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a story. Truly. Austin has been the character living quietly in the back of my mind since book one — the one I couldn’t shake, the one I kept watching from the sidelines, waiting and hoping for his moment. Watching him unravel during Nova’s book was agonizing. The pain, the self-destruction, the choices that hurt everyone around him… it was brutal to witness. And yet, I couldn’t stop wanting more for him. I needed his redemption, and when it finally came? It was everything I hoped for and so much more.

What I loved most is that his redemption was earned. Nothing about his journey felt rushed or conveniently glossed over. We didn’t just skim his past or soften the edges of his mistakes — we dove headfirst into the darkness with him. Every ugly choice, every consequence, every moment of denial and suffering was laid bare. Austin didn’t get a free pass, and that mattered. Yes, he made terrible decisions, but this book made it clear that he was deeply unwell, drowning in pain he didn’t know how to face. Seeing him finally acknowledge that, accept help, and begin the long, uncomfortable process of healing was raw and powerful. It hurt — in the best way.

And then there’s Charlie ❤️ From the moment we met her in Nova’s book, I knew she was special. There was something about her quiet strength that immediately pulled me in. Charlie is the kind of woman I love to read about — someone who wants to stand on her own two feet, who values her independence, who is actively growing into herself rather than shrinking to fit someone else’s world. She doesn’t lose herself in love; she brings her whole self to it.

Together, Austin and Charlie were breathtaking. Their connection wasn’t built on instant sparks or grand gestures — it was rooted in friendship, trust, and genuine understanding. Watching them grow closer felt so natural, so earned, so real. They saw each other fully — the broken pieces, the healing parts, the fears, the hopes — and chose each other anyway. Their bond was soft and steady and deeply emotional, and honestly? Absolute perfection.

This book didn’t just give Austin a redemption arc — it gave him hope, love, and a future that felt deserved. It was emotional, cathartic, and beautifully written. No notes. Just a full heart and a deep sense of satisfaction when I turned the last page. 💕

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

didn’t just tug at my heart. It wrapped its hands around it and refused to let go.

Vee Taylor wrote a redemption story that feels raw, tender, and achingly human. This isn’t a flashy, easy love story. It’s about choosing yourself every single day, even when the past is loud and unforgiving, and letting someone stand beside you while you do it.

Austin Hart is broken in a way that feels real. Sober. In therapy. Trying so damn hard to be better. He’s carrying guilt, regret, and a history that doesn’t let him forget who he used to be. Watching him fight for his sobriety, for his family, and for a future he isn’t sure he deserves was quietly devastating and deeply hopeful all at once.

And Charlie. Sweet, steady, sunshine Charlie. She isn’t naive or overly bright in a way that feels forced. She’s gentle, grounded, and strong in that calm, unwavering way. She sees Austin not as his worst moments, but as the man he’s becoming. Their connection grows slowly, safely, built on kindness and trust instead of instant fireworks. And somehow that made it burn even hotter.

The marriage of convenience trope was handled beautifully here. It felt practical, believable, and emotionally layered. Two people meeting at the exact moment they both need an anchor. The grumpy x sunshine dynamic shines without turning either character into a stereotype. Charlie never tries to fix Austin, and Austin never dims Charlie’s light. They grow together.

The reveal of Austin’s past colliding with his present hit hard. It forced him to face everything he’s been running from, and the way the story handled accountability, forgiveness, and self-worth was honestly stunning. This book understands that redemption isn’t instant. It’s earned through choices, honesty, and patience.

This story is heavy without being hopeless, emotional without being manipulative, and romantic without ignoring reality. It made me ache, made me proud of these characters, and made me believe in quiet, steady love.

If you love redemption arcs that actually feel earned, marriage of convenience with real emotional depth, and grumpy men learning they’re worthy of love, Your Only Redemption is a five-star, heart-splitting read. I closed this book feeling full, emotional, and deeply satisfied. 💙🏒✨

[Amy Gilane · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review — Your Only Redemption by Vee Taylor
Raven Hockey Series, Book 5

Austin is back from rehab, back in Chicago, and committed to sobriety. He’s navigating a new world in recovery — one that isn’t always bright or easy — but he is determined to move forward. He’s working alongside his stepdad, Ledger, building a relationship with his little sister Evie, and learning how to show up emotionally in ways he never could before. With the help of therapy, medication, and a real desire to heal, he’s making progress… until the looming threat of losing his insurance sends his impulsive brain into overdrive, resulting in a marriage-of-convenience plan that changes everything.

Charlie, a Southern transplant, is carving out her independence after escaping a difficult relationship with her emotionally draining mother. Now teaching in Chicago and working through her own growth bucket list, she meets Austin through Evie’s school — and from the start, he’s completely smitten. As their lives intertwine, Austin realizes Charlie may hold the key to solving his problem… but what unfolds is far deeper than either of them expected.

Their story is hard-fought, deeply emotional, and beautifully layered. The intensity of their feelings, the challenges they face, and the vulnerability they share make their journey incredibly powerful. Watching Austin’s redemption unfold — step by step — is both heartbreaking and healing. The foreshadowing at the end of book four promised emotional growth, and this book delivered fully. Living inside that maturity and recovery journey was soul-soothing.

Charlie’s strength, self-discovery, and growing independence are tender, real, and meaningful. She doesn’t just love Austin — she grows alongside him. Their connection feels earned, not rushed, and that makes it resonate even more.

Reading the Raven Hockey series has been an emotional experience for me personally, as some themes hit close to home. The author’s forward notes are raw and touching, drawing me into uninterrupted, immersive reading. Book five is a true redemption story — powerful, honest, and beautifully fought.

I cannot praise this collection enough — especially Austin’s story.

[Tifftatum40 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 freaking ⭐️s
I am completely in love with Charlie!!!! I think we all need someone like her in our lives. With all of her brightness there are struggles that both of them faced. Be prepared to laugh and cry because you will do both. This is your typically Vee Taylor book. Not scared of the hard topics and that's why if she writes it, I will read/buy it.

Dedication:
For the redemption story I never got because he refused to change, but found the courage to rewrite on my own terms. 🥹

What to expect:
💍 Marriage of convivence
🩷 Retired hockey player
💍 Kindergarten teacher
🩷 Grumpy x sunshine
💍 Friends with benefits to lovers
🩷 Addiction recovery
💍 Forced proximity

Charlie Astor AKA Ms. Honey: She is a southern girl from Georgia that moved to Chicago to become a kindergarten teacher. She is the family outcast and was made to hate her body.

Austin Hart AKA Hot brother: Recovering alcohol and drug addict. Needs health insurance to continue going to therapy and being able to get his meds. LOVES Charlies body.

As soon as these two meet in the lake I knew they had a special bond. It is very had to make that come through on page the first time a couple meets. Charlie was the piece that Austin had been missing.

This is just a beautiful story of Austin getting his redemption for himself. Taking his time to recover and work on himself before jumping into anything. He is not that same 18-21yr old kid anymore. I see that and thankfully he was able to have others see him as the man he is now.

Thank you Vee Taylor for the early copy. Above are my thoughts.

[Sheridan Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do not skip the content warnings, author’s note, or dedication. Seriously. From the dedication alone, I knew this story was going to hurt and heal me, and it absolutely did… in the most meaningful way.

Knowing Austin’s story from books 1, 3 and a bit in 4, my heart completely shattered for him all over again. Watching him navigate life post-rehab, feeling isolated and burdened by his past, was incredibly emotional and human.

The connection between Charlie and Austin had me feeling everything. I devoured this book because I couldn’t step away from their story. Their relationship is intense, tender, healing, and passionate all at once. That mirror scene was somehow both emotional and hot!

The final 20% is heavy but beautifully done. I won’t spoil anything, but these moments are powerful and necessary, and they truly solidify the meaning of redemption in this story. Seeing where these characters started versus where they end up is so satisfying.

Charlie and Austin are perfect for each other. They bring out the best in one another and love fiercely and honestly. Vee Taylor is an exceptional storyteller, her characters have so much depth, and the way their stories intertwine feels effortless and intentional. It’s impossible not to get wrapped up in the world she’s created.

I don’t think I’ve rooted for a fictional character this hard in a long time. Rooting for Austin and for everyone in his circle felt natural, emotional, and so incredibly rewarding. This book truly lives up to its title. 💔❤️

Thank you to Vee Taylor and her team for the ARC in exchange for my honest review! I will never turn down a Vee Taylor book!

[Heather Angeli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Your Only Temptation brings readers back into the Hart family world five years later, and this time the spotlight is firmly on Austin Hart. Fresh out of rehab, Austin is trying to piece together a life that looks nothing like the one he left behind. His sobriety is fragile, his future uncertain, and when reality crashes down—no insurance, no safety net—his struggle feels raw, real, and deeply human.
Enter Charlie Astor, aka Ms. Honey, the new teacher at his kid sister’s school. Charlie is warmth, competence, and quiet strength wrapped up in a way that immediately unsettles Austin—in the best way. What starts as a “not a date” date quickly turns into something far more complicated when Austin hatches a plan that could solve both of their problems: a marriage of convenience. It’s a trope we love, but Vee Taylor makes it feel fresh, emotional, and utterly irresistible.
The chemistry between Austin and Charlie is undeniable—slow-building, charged, and laced with genuine tenderness. What really elevates this book, though, is Austin’s point of view. If you’ve read Your Second Chance, you already know how his story unfolds on the surface, but being inside his head changes everything. His internal battles, his longing, his fear of relapse, and his hope for something more make this story hit so much harder.
This might just be the strongest book in the series so far. It’s heartfelt, romantic, and emotionally grounded, proving that second chances—at love and at life—are never out of reach. Your Only Temptation isn’t just about temptation; it’s about healing, choosing love, and daring to believe you’re worthy of it.

[Audi Walbridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I... 🥹

I could not wait for Austin's recovery...comeback...victory... story.

My heart broke reading Nova & his story. My heart hurt and healed reading Nova's second chance.

Austin's second chance was beautiful. The fear he grappled with due to his addiction, his failed marriage, his rocky relationship with his mother and stepfather, and the weight of what he found out about his biological father.

He worked hard daily to be a better person, to fight addiction. The way Vee portrayed addiction and what it did to not only the person going through the motions of addiction & recovery but to those around them was so respectful and raw.

Charlie, a literal angel.
She left the south to escape the pressure her mother put on her and to live her own life for as long as she could. She was kind, selfless, understanding, and full of love. She also struggled with self doubt, hating her body because of her mother's words, feared never being enough, and knew she ran from her problems as a safety net.

She never judged Austin, and when he needed help- she didn't hesitate.

Seeing their love story unfold was beautiful. There was no judgement, just honestly, loyalty, rawness, and beauty. Neither were perfect. What started as a marriage of convenience was this perfect storm, two magnets that were always destined together.

Seeing Austin's side of meeting Scarlette and navigating this new grey area with Nova. I was so proud of them both.

I cannot wait to read more and hope we see snippets of them in future stories.

[Cheyenne Yowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was one of the lucky readers chosen to ARC read this book, and honestly this story did exactly what it promised. It redeemed him …

I loved Austin at the beginning of the series, but as things progressed I will not lie, he started giving me the ick 😬 Major red flags. Super selfish. Hard to root for. But at the same time he was clearly drowning in addiction and pain, and this book truly delivers on his redemption arc. It does not excuse his behavior, but it makes you understand it, and that matters.

The emotional intimacy in this story is everything 🥹 The trauma Austin carries and the trauma Charlie has endured is raw, relatable, and deeply human. This is the kind of book where you do not just read the emotions, you feel them. That connection is what makes a story unforgettable, and this one absolutely nails it.

The tropes are perfection ✨
Marriage of convenience.
Grumpy x sunshine.
Redemption arc.
Chosen family (in my opinion)

I especially loved the found family aspect, with multiple people coming together to create something safe and real when biological family has failed you. There is something incredibly powerful about being chosen and accepted when your past is messy and painful.

The ending was the icing on the cake, I was so happy and completely satisfied with how everything wrapped up.

Hands down, one of my favorite scenes in the book is the mirror scene 🪞 The way this man worships her, emotionally and physically, is unreal 🥵 If you know, you know. If you do not, please read this book.

Highly recommend 📖

[Sofia Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading the story of Austin and Nova in Your Biggest Downfall, I was rooting for the classic HEA for the two of them. Hard not to, when most romances you read follow that pattern.
While at first you may be disappointed by the ending of the Your Biggest Downfall, please don’t give up on the series. It may not follow the stereotypical romance ending, but the stories are absolutely beautiful and show the real and raw side of life, instead of the perfect love stories often portrayed.
In Your Only Redemption, we follow the story of Austin and Charlie and while it was much anticipated, it did not disappoint. Their story is everything it should be and what the characters deserve after going through pain and heartbreak.
Vee Taylor focuses on showing the reader how difficult it is to find you place and footing after going through recovery and being criticized and bullied by the people who supposed to love you.
The support and connection between Charlie and Austin is authentic, sweet, relatable and real.
Their decision to get married may be sudden and based on practicality, but to the reader their connection is immediately felt.
Austin helps Charlie see herself in a positive way and Charlie helps Austin find his way back to himself.
Your Only Redemption gives us a beautifully written story of how important it is to take on your past to build a future, rely on others to support you and be aware of your self-worth.
Thank you for the ARC.

[Lyndsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do ever get sucked into a series and just LONG for a redemption arc for a main character?

Vee delivers just that in the most beautiful heart wrenching way!

It’s finally Austin’s story and boy is it a doozy. This man has been through so much & the way Vee tackles Austin’s addiction, his healing, and his anxiety for the future is unmatched. She doesn’t just leave it there though. Oh no! She brings us Charlie. This sweet girl is someone I think we can all relate to on a cellular level in one way or another.

Sunshine, hope, low self worth, uncertainty about how to get out from underneath her mom’s controlling thumb, excitement to make a life of her own. Together Austin and Charlie bring you the most stunning marriage of convenience and a friendship foundation that can survive any storm. And the spice… Y’all it was spicin’! 🥵 That man!!

Cameos, “behind the scenes” moments we’ve already experienced but lord have mercy does this angle bring it full circle. I cried, I giggled, I bit my fist. I made mental notes (leaves 🍃 iykyk), and I completely devoured their story. I think Vee says it best, “This is a story about learning to forgive yourself, and discovering that sometimes redemption isn’t about fixing the past, but building a future.”

If you are looking for a book that will have you in a chokehold, holding your breath along with the characters, cheering on redemption, coming into your own, support, found family, second chances, and a road you can relate to… this one is for you!

You definitely need to read Your Biggest Downfall & Your Second Chance first to really grasp Austin’s story, but to have a full picture start at book 1, Your Pucking Mom, where we first meet Austin.

[FN · Rating 5 out of 5]

The preface hits hard—"For the redemption story I never got because he refused to change, but found the courage to rewrite on my own terms."

I had a tiny bit of hope of Austin & Nova would end together since they were introduced in the previous book. They were young, tangled in circumstances far bigger than they were. As the series progress, Vee clearly shows that their separate journey doesnt come with ease. Every experience leaves its mark, offering lessons that either push them forward or trap them in the same unresolved wounds. And each journey brings someone that supports their growth and healing journey endlessly with the mess of thier own. This book is about Austin & Charlie.

One thing for sure, this story slowly seeps into your heart, stirring bittersweet emotions as you go along with the characters. Vee handles sensitive subjects with remarkable care, allowing the pain, growth, and confusion to feel honest and earned. I love how all the journey tied the chracters together and become a bigger family.

While this book can be read as a standalone, experiencing the previous books deepens the emotional impact and makes the characters' progression more heartbreaking and meaningful. Thank you for the opportunity to read this in advance.

[Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vee Taylor, you have done it again! Austin was at his absolute lowest at the end of his and Nova's book, but at the end of Nova and Ollie's book, we see a different side of him. One that seemingly redeemed himself from all of the problems he caused through his addiction. This is Austin and Charlie's story.

🩶Redemption story
🩶Marriage of convenience
🩶Forced proximity
🩶Friends with benefits to lovers

Austin is back in town where all of his demons consumed his life. But he is determined to change his ways and become a better person. And in doing so, his first task is to get to know his little sister better and forgive his mother and Ledger.

Charlie is a teacher at the school where his sister Evie goes and he is instantly besotted by her. And after one date, he realizes that she is the answer to some of his problems.

Charlie and Austin’s relationship is unique in the way it starts, but these two fall and they fall HARD with one another. I loved seeing both of them in their journey of falling in love. Austin’s redemption is hard fought, but he deserves every bit of happiness and I just loved Charlie’s influence in it all!

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story I didn’t know I needed. Austin’s story was a long time coming, we met him at the beginning of the Raven’s Hockey Series as the FMC’s son and youngest rookie ever. As the time goes by we learn of his habits… his addictions. Somewhere along the way he went and had a whirlwind romance that lead him to his rock bottom. Years later he’s sober, and he’s trying to earn back everyone’s trust after his fail.

This is more than a love story for Austin this is his redemption story.

Charlie, the southern girl who’s just trying to carve out her place in the world as a new teacher away from the suffocating expectations of high society living in the south. Turns out Charlie is a teacher at Austin’s half sister’s school. Charlie and the hot brother soon collide. But not in the typical way, a marriage of convenience because Austin needs insurance. They agreed to keep feelings out of it, friendship only… how long does that last.

What to Expect:
🏒 Marriage of Convenience
✏️ Forced Proximity
🏒 Addiction Recovery
✏️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒 Kindergarten Teacher x Retired Hockey Player

✨ plus a fun bucket list ✨

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4⭐️

I was eager to read Your Only Redemption and finally get Austin’s story.

I feel like you could read this one without reading Your Biggest Downfall and Your Second Chance and not be too confused, but I truly think you’d be missing out! I didn’t read Your Biggest Downfall but did read Your Second Chance and really enjoyed it.

I love a good redemption story and this is definitely one of those.

Charlie and Austin both have their own baggage, but together they learn to lean on each other, they have this way of seeing each other’s strengths and all the good they bring to the table when they cant always see that in themselves. While Charlie knows Austin’s past, and where he’s failed, she sees in him how hard he’s worked, how far he’s come and that he’s worthy of self forgiveness. Austin sees the kindness and beauty Charlie has even when she can’t see it herself. He is constantly showing her, and reassuring her, and slowly erasing the years of self doubt planted by her mother.
I just really loved these two together!


Your Only Redemption Tropes
- Addiction Recovery
-Marriage of Convenience (For Health Insurance)
-Friends to Lovers
-Forced Proximity
-Curvy FMC
-Family Truama
-Found Family

[Alicia Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

Your Only Redemption by Vee Taylor is emotionally jarring in the way only Vee can write. Reading the dedication, I already knew this one was going to be emotional and personal for me. “For the redemption story I never got because he refused to change, but found the courage to rewrite on my own terms.” That line alone set the tone and hit close to home.

As someone who related deeply to Nova, the FMC from Your Second Chance, I went into this story both anxious and hopeful for Austin’s happily ever after. Vee never shies away from hard or triggering topics, but instead faces them head-on with care and intention, which is something I truly appreciate about her writing.

The marriage of convenience was done incredibly well, and what stood out most to me was that the emotional weight was not placed solely on Austin. Both Austin and Charlie have their own demons to face, and that balance made the story feel honest and earned.

I also loved how this story ties directly into the ending of Your Second Chance, weaving the two books together in a way that feels seamless and satisfying. The way Vee captures emotion and brings her characters to life makes it feel like you are right there with them, experiencing everything alongside them.

This was raw, emotional, and deeply personal, and it reminded me once again why Vee Taylor is an auto-read author for me.

[XenyMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I needed to fix myself because I wanted to, not because someone else needed me to.”

This story was everything and so much more.

Vee has a way of mending our broken heart pieces back together, and if you thought that's what she did in YSC, you're sorely mistaken because this is it. This is the book that will heal everything we didn't even know needed healing, that we've been carrying since Book 1 in the series.

Char and Austin are just so perfect together. They bring light to each other's lives that is simply beautiful. Especially after everything that Austin has been through, seeing him this light and happy made me so happy. And also the way that he built Char up was everything.

I also loved seeing how his relationship with his mom and Ledger changed. This showed so much growth from all parties involved. Seeing him and Nova co-parent was also a great example of how far they've both come.

Quote: “You’re mine, Char. You’ll be the reason I walk this earth and the reason I close my eyes at night. My partner, my wife, my last, my only.”

[Crystal Conwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vee Taylor does it again!!! I was so honored to be chosen to ARC read Your Only Redemption (RELEASES JANUARY 20th). I have been waiting for this book.

This book carries us through Austin’s much deserved HEA (Book 3 of the Trilogy story)after Your Biggest Downfall #1 and Your Second Chance #2). This book takes you through Austin’s side of the story and what happens to him after the first book. He could not have found a better partner in Charlie. She sees him in a way no one else has before but the true can be said for her that Austin sees her in a different way. Both Austin and Charlie come to the relationship with their own baggage and version of what they feel is brokenness, but they also find that in each other the past doesn’t matter unless they let it. This book is heavy on owning your faults, but not letting the past paint and define your future. Also, heavy on forgiveness and the different versions of what that can look like. I love how this story closed out and this book hit me in all of the feels.

Be sure to know your own triggers.

[Larissa Savage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Austin’s redemption arc was exactly what I hoped it would be! His character growth since Your Biggest Downfall is huge and really displays that it’s hard work to navigate sobriety and mend relationships that you value along the way. Then you add in the stress of losing insurance because he hit the magic age of 26 and we had the makings for an interesting marriage of convenience situation with the gorgeous kindergarten teacher that caught his eye at his little sister’s school pick up. Charlie offered Austin patience and kindness when he needed it most while she also was navigating her own struggles of chasing independence from her family and their preconceived beliefs of what her life should be. She also gave him a quieter and calmer life with farmers markets and movie marathons, sprinkle in a lot of great chemistry we have some fabulous spicy scenes.
Vee Taylor really knows how to balance the heavy topics with grace and add the hot smutty scenes that leave you wanting more. Just beautiful!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss ma’am AGAIN with the tearing my heart out and taping it back together again. I absolutely got gripped into this book and held on for dear life! Once again Austin broke me, and Charlie put me back together. The journey of this book was incredible and I know all your books are incredible and leave me speechless every time.

Thank you for allowing me to be on your street team and have the honor of being able to read your work and be amazed every time! You have this incredible story telling ability and the way the characters are so in-depth and bring so much to every one of your books. The journey Austin goes through is devastating but then his redemption? It’s perfect, the perfect ending for him and his journey.

I cried, both sad tears and happy tears for this book! You are still one of my favorite authors, and one of the ones that somehow leave me speechless when I finish your books!

This is an absolute must read!!!!

[Amy Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the literal definition of a redemption arc! Austin finally gets to redeem himself, and holy what a journey he has been on to get here.

This whole series is so refreshing, not because its sweet or easy, but because its raw and real. These books take you on these characters worst moments, soak in the emotions, and somehow bring them out stronger on the other side.

The character development with Austin is top tier. After seeing him hit rock bottom in Your Biggest Downfall, I was gutted for him, and honestly didn't know how he could come back from that. But seeing Charlie step up beside him, and just by being, support him how he needed? Right in the heart. Perfect.

Charlie had her fair share of trauma, and Austin battling her insecurities with her was so sweet. These two were so good together, it was just what I needed to see how they had healed. I can't wait for the final book to see how Luna, Dirks and Jeremy mend their relationship!

[Brittany Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this!!!

Thisnstory follows Austin which to be completely honest I wasn’t sure how he was going to get his redemption especially seeing the trope of marriage of convenience on the list but Vee did not disappoint.

This definitely goes through the ups and downs of addiction, the fears you have when getting sober and making amends, and talking through all the hard conversations:

And not only that but Charlie I love her. I coule relate to her negative self talk, her worry of not living for herself, her fear of only always being second best.

If you’re looking for an mmc to finally get his redemption, found family, compassion, understanding and an mmc who will build you up on your hard days. This is the one.

Things you can expect:

💙 Marriage of Convenience
📝 Teacher x Hockey Coach
💙 Bucketlists
📝 Mirror 🌶️
💙 Forced Proximity
📝 F**k It
💙 Friends with benefits to lovers
📝 No 3rd Act Breakup

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. So happy Austin got his HEA!
Austin had hit his rock bottom with his and Novas story.. but it is so amazing to see how he changed his life around and found his love of life! Charlie is such a sweetheart. Such a light in anyone's paths she crosses! She never once judged him for his past and never held it against him!
I love the chemistry between Austin & Charlie. They both had the feelings for one another before they even acted upon the feelings! The spice was oh so good! The Christmas spice scene 🥵🫠

I love how he was able to talk with Nova and I feel that really helped them moving forward! ❤️‍🩹

I am so glad we got Austin's redemption book! ❤️‍🩹
I cannot wait for the last book in this series !
"One leaf at a time"

Thank you so much for the ARC of this book Vee! So happy to be apart of them team! 🥰

[Sheena Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

Ravens Hockey series book 5! Oh my heart is healed! Your Biggest Downfall obliterated me. Your Second Chance started the healing process. But Your Only Redemption swooped right in and healed my destroyed heart! I was so happy to see Austin finally get his HEA with Charlie and the way they all came together at the end and became their own little found family was the part that I didn’t even know I needed! Vee Taylor knows how to wreck us in the best kind of way! ♾️⭐️

I love how this book tied up Austin and Nova’s story in the Ravens hockey world perfectly! Everything was as it should be, with Austin and Nova both realizing that they were not what each other needed and getting the closure they had to have to completely heal! Nova said it best , “sometimes, two people can fall in love, create something beautiful, but their ending looks different.”