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Kings of the Ice #5
Stand Your Ground: Special Edition
I wrote up the contract myself.
Legally binding. Crystal clear.
No strings. No feelings.
Just sex — and two million dollars in exchange for my time and expertise.
Carter Fabri may be Tampa Bay’s newest rising star, but off the ice, he’s all Bambi eyes and inexperience. He’s a virgin in desperate need of lessons in dominance, seduction, and everything in between.
And I happen to be just the woman to teach him.
I don’t need his money.
But I do need what it can give me.
I’m thirty-two, cut off from my family, and one bill away from drowning in student debt. The fantasy I’ve built around my lifestyle is getting harder to maintain. This pay day would secure the lifestyle I’ve worked too hard to let slip through my fingers and finally give me the chance to save for something I’ve always wanted — something I’ve never told anyone about.
So, I take Carter on as my student. I lay out every rule, every boundary, every carefully controlled term of our arrangement.
What I don’t plan for is how quickly he’d catch on — or how much I’d enjoy letting him take the reins.
This was supposed to be a lesson in power.
But somewhere along the way, I stopped being the one in charge.
I thought I could keep my heart out of it.
I thought I’d accounted for every risk.
But some consequences you can’t predict — no matter how carefully you draft the terms.
Legally binding. Crystal clear.
No strings. No feelings.
Just sex — and two million dollars in exchange for my time and expertise.
Carter Fabri may be Tampa Bay’s newest rising star, but off the ice, he’s all Bambi eyes and inexperience. He’s a virgin in desperate need of lessons in dominance, seduction, and everything in between.
And I happen to be just the woman to teach him.
I don’t need his money.
But I do need what it can give me.
I’m thirty-two, cut off from my family, and one bill away from drowning in student debt. The fantasy I’ve built around my lifestyle is getting harder to maintain. This pay day would secure the lifestyle I’ve worked too hard to let slip through my fingers and finally give me the chance to save for something I’ve always wanted — something I’ve never told anyone about.
So, I take Carter on as my student. I lay out every rule, every boundary, every carefully controlled term of our arrangement.
What I don’t plan for is how quickly he’d catch on — or how much I’d enjoy letting him take the reins.
This was supposed to be a lesson in power.
But somewhere along the way, I stopped being the one in charge.
I thought I could keep my heart out of it.
I thought I’d accounted for every risk.
But some consequences you can’t predict — no matter how carefully you draft the terms.
414 pages, Paperback
Published September 19, 2025
1413 people are currently reading
14078 people want to read
About the author
Kandi Steiner
79 books14.8k followersKandi Steiner is a USA Today and #1 Amazon Bestselling Author living in Tennessee. Best known for writing “emotional rollercoaster” stories, she loves bringing flawed characters to life and writing about real, raw romance — in all its forms. No two Kandi Steiner books are the same, and if you’re a lover of angsty, emotional, and inspirational reads, she’s your gal.
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 928 reviews
October 26, 2025
Stand Your Ground (Kings of the Ice, #5) by Kandi Steiner
5/5 stars
Kandi Steiner is a brilliant, brilliant romance writer. I seem to fall in love with any character she creates. And oh my heart, I fell head over heels in love with Carter and Livia. Kandi delivered another hot and all-consuming romance book.
Carter is a talented hockey player but he is very inexperienced in the bedroom. He has always been drawn to Livia. He admires her, loves her feistiness and loves pushing her buttons. And when he lays in her dentist chair he finally pops the question and he asks her to teach him how to please a woman and how to date. Livia at first sounds a bit like a snob. She wants one million dollars so she can keep up her lavish lifestyle and she muses she deserves all the expensive things she longs for. She ends up getting 2 million and the two enter into an incredibly hot arrangement. One without feelings whatsoever. And utterly doomed to fail.
But Livia, she isn't a snob. She has a thick and hard shield surrounding her and she needs the money to freeze her eggs, so she can become a single mom when she is ready and is financially secure. We find out her parents denounced her and she carries a dark and devastating pain with her that still influences her to this day. Her shield is a forcefield of protection and she needs it every step of the way.
And the reason Carter is inexperienced? A coach crushed his young adult spirit with faul and bad coaching and he destroyed his spirit and security in himself to the bone. He constantly talks himself down and is very insecure.
And the second their first lesson starts.. Carter is able to see behind Livia's wall. And Livia instantly sees his pain and does everything in her power to build him back up and give him back his confidence.
I absolutely loved that Carter easily submitted to Livia. I love how fierce and strong and powerful he is all the way through. I loved that certain things she suggests and which they do don't break down his masculinity. He embraces it, and everything they do empowers him. I loved seeing him blossom. And I loved how much Livia loves helping him.
But the past cannot let Livia go. And suddenly she needs to make a difficult decision.
This book truly shows how two people can grow brilliantly and beautifully together. But also grow and evolve separately. It's a book that embraces love, support, friendship and connection. I love how supportive their friends are. And how strong that support is to the bone.
This book is so wholesome. The last few chapters had my heart bursting with joy and support and I felt bursts of pain and love go right through me.
This book is absolutely brilliant. It's hot, the love scenes are pure fire. The connection is one of a kind and top notch. I love how this book pushes every single character forwards. Even the ones with the tiniest parts.
5 huge, big and amazing stars for Stand Your Ground! ♥ A must read if you love contemporary romance!
5/5 stars
Kandi Steiner is a brilliant, brilliant romance writer. I seem to fall in love with any character she creates. And oh my heart, I fell head over heels in love with Carter and Livia. Kandi delivered another hot and all-consuming romance book.
Carter is a talented hockey player but he is very inexperienced in the bedroom. He has always been drawn to Livia. He admires her, loves her feistiness and loves pushing her buttons. And when he lays in her dentist chair he finally pops the question and he asks her to teach him how to please a woman and how to date. Livia at first sounds a bit like a snob. She wants one million dollars so she can keep up her lavish lifestyle and she muses she deserves all the expensive things she longs for. She ends up getting 2 million and the two enter into an incredibly hot arrangement. One without feelings whatsoever. And utterly doomed to fail.
But Livia, she isn't a snob. She has a thick and hard shield surrounding her and she needs the money to freeze her eggs, so she can become a single mom when she is ready and is financially secure. We find out her parents denounced her and she carries a dark and devastating pain with her that still influences her to this day. Her shield is a forcefield of protection and she needs it every step of the way.
And the reason Carter is inexperienced? A coach crushed his young adult spirit with faul and bad coaching and he destroyed his spirit and security in himself to the bone. He constantly talks himself down and is very insecure.
And the second their first lesson starts.. Carter is able to see behind Livia's wall. And Livia instantly sees his pain and does everything in her power to build him back up and give him back his confidence.
I absolutely loved that Carter easily submitted to Livia. I love how fierce and strong and powerful he is all the way through. I loved that certain things she suggests and which they do don't break down his masculinity. He embraces it, and everything they do empowers him. I loved seeing him blossom. And I loved how much Livia loves helping him.
But the past cannot let Livia go. And suddenly she needs to make a difficult decision.
This book truly shows how two people can grow brilliantly and beautifully together. But also grow and evolve separately. It's a book that embraces love, support, friendship and connection. I love how supportive their friends are. And how strong that support is to the bone.
This book is so wholesome. The last few chapters had my heart bursting with joy and support and I felt bursts of pain and love go right through me.
This book is absolutely brilliant. It's hot, the love scenes are pure fire. The connection is one of a kind and top notch. I love how this book pushes every single character forwards. Even the ones with the tiniest parts.
5 huge, big and amazing stars for Stand Your Ground! ♥ A must read if you love contemporary romance!
Currently reading
October 25, 2025is this a safe place to admit that i only started this book because i saw that hero is inexperienced and she teaches him? 🤭😋
happy weekend everyone i’m gonna be devouring this xx
happy weekend everyone i’m gonna be devouring this xx
October 22, 2025
4 stars
Stand Your Ground is the fifth book in Kandi Steiner’s ‘Kings of the Ice’ series. I love a good hockey romance, and I think we’ve all been waiting for Carter and Liv’s story, and I was here for it!
Carter is a cinnamon roll hero and the rookie of the team. Livia is the team’s dentist and seems tough, but she has a soft heart. I loved the two of them together. My favorite part was watching them both open up to one another on an emotional level. I enjoyed getting their backstories and seeing what made them both tick.
This one had a bit more steam than I personally like in my romances, and more than most of Kandi’s books, but the emotion and love story were still strong. I loved the writing and the book as a whole. This one was a win for me, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Stand Your Ground is the fifth book in Kandi Steiner’s ‘Kings of the Ice’ series. I love a good hockey romance, and I think we’ve all been waiting for Carter and Liv’s story, and I was here for it!
Carter is a cinnamon roll hero and the rookie of the team. Livia is the team’s dentist and seems tough, but she has a soft heart. I loved the two of them together. My favorite part was watching them both open up to one another on an emotional level. I enjoyed getting their backstories and seeing what made them both tick.
This one had a bit more steam than I personally like in my romances, and more than most of Kandi’s books, but the emotion and love story were still strong. I loved the writing and the book as a whole. This one was a win for me, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
October 26, 2025
I finished this in NOT KIDDING 12 HOURS 😅 am I okay??!? the answer is no because this was SO GOOD. I’m always hesitant to read a female Domme romance because I think those books tend to lack emotional intimacy & the FMC is always this black cat firecracker with walls up & that’s about it. But both characters were unbelievably developed. I loved both of their stories, both of their personalities, the way they mesh together, and of course the spice which demonstrated k!!!!nk in a realistic but hot way. Carter was the most adorable golden retriever MMC and they just both made me so happy. This was addicting & spicy but emotional and perfect. ALSO OMG COACHES BOOK IS NEXT?! Gag me
October 24, 2025
My reviews are always my personal opinion.
This one was just not for me.
And it’s not because of Kandi Steiners writing, because she’s such a great writer.
The spice and BDSM (which I’m not opposed to) was just extremely overpowering.
Carter & Livia both have backstories that I wish were more focused on, without the spice in the same scene.
She’s older, the team dentist, and an experienced domme, he’s a virgin. A NHL player. Not always the most believable but the trope didn’t bother me.
Carter was pure golden retriever. His fun pick up lines and struggles with hockey gave him depth. I liked him.
I did end up skimming through the spice scenes after a while but it still took me awhile to read this.
Arc review ✨
This one was just not for me.
And it’s not because of Kandi Steiners writing, because she’s such a great writer.
The spice and BDSM (which I’m not opposed to) was just extremely overpowering.
Carter & Livia both have backstories that I wish were more focused on, without the spice in the same scene.
She’s older, the team dentist, and an experienced domme, he’s a virgin. A NHL player. Not always the most believable but the trope didn’t bother me.
Carter was pure golden retriever. His fun pick up lines and struggles with hockey gave him depth. I liked him.
I did end up skimming through the spice scenes after a while but it still took me awhile to read this.
Arc review ✨
October 19, 2025
4🌟, 4 🌶️
Forget just standing your ground - this book will knock you right off your feet.
Carter Fabri, the awkward but charming hockey player, has always had a thing for Livia Young, the confident team dentist who has built walls around her heart. What starts as a paid arrangement to help him regain confidence quickly turns into something raw and real, full of tension, growth, and unexpected feelings.
Carter's transformation is beautiful to watch as he grows from nervous and selt-doubting to bold, capable, and finally believing he is enough. Livia, who has spent years hiding behind control and strength, learns that letting someone in does not make her weak. Their chemistry is explosive, though I wasn’t a fan of the “mommy” nickname, it didn’t lessen their emotional connection.
This story balances spice and heart perfectly. It is about trust, self-acceptance, and finding safety in someone who sees every part of you.
A love story that burns hot, heals deep, and leaves you smiling long after the last page.
~~~~
Grateful to Kandi Steiner and Valentine PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
Forget just standing your ground - this book will knock you right off your feet.
Carter Fabri, the awkward but charming hockey player, has always had a thing for Livia Young, the confident team dentist who has built walls around her heart. What starts as a paid arrangement to help him regain confidence quickly turns into something raw and real, full of tension, growth, and unexpected feelings.
Carter's transformation is beautiful to watch as he grows from nervous and selt-doubting to bold, capable, and finally believing he is enough. Livia, who has spent years hiding behind control and strength, learns that letting someone in does not make her weak. Their chemistry is explosive, though I wasn’t a fan of the “mommy” nickname, it didn’t lessen their emotional connection.
This story balances spice and heart perfectly. It is about trust, self-acceptance, and finding safety in someone who sees every part of you.
A love story that burns hot, heals deep, and leaves you smiling long after the last page.
~~~~
Grateful to Kandi Steiner and Valentine PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
October 14, 2025
The SPICIEST one of the series, hands down and arguably Kandi’s spiciest book yet. My favorite reverse age gap story I’ve ever read.
But.. in true Kandi fashion, this book will tug on your heart too and that feeling will go hand in hand with the spice. Carter and Livia. These two have been supporting characters throughout the Kings of Ice series so far and now it’s finally their turn.
Stand Your Ground is the perfect example of how you can balance substance and spice in a romance book without sacrificing one for the other. Carter & Liv both have their own demons that they are fighting and present to their friends and the world a persona that really, more than anything else protects them. Livia is a badass, beautiful woman who is the team dentist for the Tampa Bay Ospreys and Carter is the NHL center with jokes for days and talent that has his team hopeful on his future. What happens when these two strike up a mutually beneficial arrangement?
These two both grow so much in this story. Carter realizes the beauty in exploring and trying things without fear of failure and releases the burden of perfectionism. Liv? The one who’s had to do it all own her own for so damn long and resists true emotional intimacy with men? It was beautiful watching her softness come out around Carter and seeing her realize that she has her own soft landing place too in this world.
This is one of the first books in a long time that I’ve read where the spice is also used to further character development in a very substantive, way. The yearning and pining in Stand Your Ground will have you swooning, because Carter is attentive, down bad, and absolutely feral for Liv. You can tell that Kandi put a lot of care, time, and research into this story.
What to expect..
Grumpy sunshine
Opposites attract
He’s obsessed
Virgin MMC
He falls first
Black cat x golden retriever
Reverse age gap
She gives HIM spicy lessons
Interracial romance
But.. in true Kandi fashion, this book will tug on your heart too and that feeling will go hand in hand with the spice. Carter and Livia. These two have been supporting characters throughout the Kings of Ice series so far and now it’s finally their turn.
Stand Your Ground is the perfect example of how you can balance substance and spice in a romance book without sacrificing one for the other. Carter & Liv both have their own demons that they are fighting and present to their friends and the world a persona that really, more than anything else protects them. Livia is a badass, beautiful woman who is the team dentist for the Tampa Bay Ospreys and Carter is the NHL center with jokes for days and talent that has his team hopeful on his future. What happens when these two strike up a mutually beneficial arrangement?
These two both grow so much in this story. Carter realizes the beauty in exploring and trying things without fear of failure and releases the burden of perfectionism. Liv? The one who’s had to do it all own her own for so damn long and resists true emotional intimacy with men? It was beautiful watching her softness come out around Carter and seeing her realize that she has her own soft landing place too in this world.
This is one of the first books in a long time that I’ve read where the spice is also used to further character development in a very substantive, way. The yearning and pining in Stand Your Ground will have you swooning, because Carter is attentive, down bad, and absolutely feral for Liv. You can tell that Kandi put a lot of care, time, and research into this story.
What to expect..
Grumpy sunshine
Opposites attract
He’s obsessed
Virgin MMC
He falls first
Black cat x golden retriever
Reverse age gap
She gives HIM spicy lessons
Interracial romance
October 23, 2025
4.5 'If you want it, own it' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
Kandi Steiner continues to skate strong in her Kings of the Ice series with its fifth book called Stand Your Ground. She delivers not only another emotionally rich and character-driven romance, but also dives into what must be her spiciest book to date. While keeping the pulse of the series with her signature blend of hockey, friendship, banter, heart, and heat, Kandi introduces a new dynamic and she absolutely nails it.
At the center of this installment are Liv and Carter, a couple whose chemistry is palpable from the start. Liv is a heroine who knows what she wants and how she wants it, she likes control and is unapologetically herself and Carter, on the other hand, is a total delight: eager, open, and completely captivated by her. Their connection is electric, but it's also layered with all the feelings that make this book more than just a steamy ride.
I didn’t know how the hell I was supposed to go back to just being her student.
Her friend.
Not when she’d given me this.
Not when every cell in my body was already leaning toward her, begging for more.
It does take a little time for both of them to open up, especially Liv, but the layers of vulnerability slowly peeling is what makes this story so heartfelt. Their pasts keep obstacles in the present, threatening to derail what they’re building —but I loved reading how they face those demons together head on. I’ll also admit, changing the topic completely, it took me a bit to adjust to the sexual dynamics between them —it’s definitely bolder than previous books— but in true Kandi fashion, it's handled with care, authenticity, and absolutely stunning writing.
The truth was Carter felt like home in a way I thought I’d never experience again.
She makes it impossible not to fall in love with these two, quirks, kinks, and all. Stand Your Ground is a solid 4.5 STAR READ to me: it’s bold, sexy, emotional, and everything I enjoy about Kandi’s writing. Moreover, it was a joy to check in with the other couples and see the bonds between them all grow stronger. This world just feels like home, and each new book just makes it harder to say goodbye. And speaking of… can we talk about that tease about the final book? Yes, Coach is coming next and I am not ready!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
Kandi Steiner continues to skate strong in her Kings of the Ice series with its fifth book called Stand Your Ground. She delivers not only another emotionally rich and character-driven romance, but also dives into what must be her spiciest book to date. While keeping the pulse of the series with her signature blend of hockey, friendship, banter, heart, and heat, Kandi introduces a new dynamic and she absolutely nails it.
At the center of this installment are Liv and Carter, a couple whose chemistry is palpable from the start. Liv is a heroine who knows what she wants and how she wants it, she likes control and is unapologetically herself and Carter, on the other hand, is a total delight: eager, open, and completely captivated by her. Their connection is electric, but it's also layered with all the feelings that make this book more than just a steamy ride.
I didn’t know how the hell I was supposed to go back to just being her student.
Her friend.
Not when she’d given me this.
Not when every cell in my body was already leaning toward her, begging for more.
It does take a little time for both of them to open up, especially Liv, but the layers of vulnerability slowly peeling is what makes this story so heartfelt. Their pasts keep obstacles in the present, threatening to derail what they’re building —but I loved reading how they face those demons together head on. I’ll also admit, changing the topic completely, it took me a bit to adjust to the sexual dynamics between them —it’s definitely bolder than previous books— but in true Kandi fashion, it's handled with care, authenticity, and absolutely stunning writing.
The truth was Carter felt like home in a way I thought I’d never experience again.
She makes it impossible not to fall in love with these two, quirks, kinks, and all. Stand Your Ground is a solid 4.5 STAR READ to me: it’s bold, sexy, emotional, and everything I enjoy about Kandi’s writing. Moreover, it was a joy to check in with the other couples and see the bonds between them all grow stronger. This world just feels like home, and each new book just makes it harder to say goodbye. And speaking of… can we talk about that tease about the final book? Yes, Coach is coming next and I am not ready!
October 26, 2025
Ohmygoddddddd, I think this just topped Watch Your Mouth for me??? Which I thought would be nearly impossible.
If you’ve seen the list of spicy tropes or read other reviews, you’re probably thinking, wow, this book must be spicy!! & yes, it absolutely is. But since everyone’s already talking about the spice, I want to tell you about something else: how ACHINGLY ROMANTIC this book is.
Kandi Steiner has crafted a true masterpiece, one that doesn’t sacrifice tenderness for heat. Carter and Livia’s love is healing, cozy, soft, & oh so joyful, the kind of love that makes your chest ache in the best way. I found myself giggling, blushing, and smiling from start to finish.
What I loved most were the quiet, intimate moments, like when she’s laying in his lap, his dog curled up in hers, both of them just existing together while doing their own thing. *The dream.* It felt so real and raw, like a slice of love you could actually touch!!
Also, there were approximately 20 “good boy”s.
Alexa, play Eldest Daughter by Taylor Swift
If you’ve seen the list of spicy tropes or read other reviews, you’re probably thinking, wow, this book must be spicy!! & yes, it absolutely is. But since everyone’s already talking about the spice, I want to tell you about something else: how ACHINGLY ROMANTIC this book is.
Kandi Steiner has crafted a true masterpiece, one that doesn’t sacrifice tenderness for heat. Carter and Livia’s love is healing, cozy, soft, & oh so joyful, the kind of love that makes your chest ache in the best way. I found myself giggling, blushing, and smiling from start to finish.
What I loved most were the quiet, intimate moments, like when she’s laying in his lap, his dog curled up in hers, both of them just existing together while doing their own thing. *The dream.* It felt so real and raw, like a slice of love you could actually touch!!
Also, there were approximately 20 “good boy”s.
Alexa, play Eldest Daughter by Taylor Swift
October 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🤍hockey romance
🤍reverse age gap
🤍black cat x golden retriever
🤍spicy lessons
💋Dramatic Thoughts💋
I’m going to keep this one short and sweet because you’re just going to have to read it to understand how phenomenal it was because my words truly aren’t enough!!
Oh my gosh..okay I did not know it was possible for a book this spicy to have so much heart and soul to it. I was a BALL of tears at one point and goosebumps broke out over my entire body. I’m not usually a golden retriever MMC lover but Kandi Steiner continues to change my mind on every single trope I thought wasn’t a fav of mine (she did the SAME thing with Save Your Breath!!) because HOLY COW I adored Carter so much. Dare I say my new fav MMC in the series!?! And Liv?!? What an absolute FIERCE woman!! I’m obsessed with her!! Liv instilled so much confidence in Carter while he helped her see that she didn’t have to do it all on her own. They were the literal perfect pair and healed each other in all the best ways!
Kandi Steiner continues to be an absolute queen in the world of romance authors and she isn’t slowing down any time soon! Devoured is an understatement!!
Thank you @kandisteiner + @valentine_pr_ for an ARC of this incredible book!!
🤍hockey romance
🤍reverse age gap
🤍black cat x golden retriever
🤍spicy lessons
💋Dramatic Thoughts💋
I’m going to keep this one short and sweet because you’re just going to have to read it to understand how phenomenal it was because my words truly aren’t enough!!
Oh my gosh..okay I did not know it was possible for a book this spicy to have so much heart and soul to it. I was a BALL of tears at one point and goosebumps broke out over my entire body. I’m not usually a golden retriever MMC lover but Kandi Steiner continues to change my mind on every single trope I thought wasn’t a fav of mine (she did the SAME thing with Save Your Breath!!) because HOLY COW I adored Carter so much. Dare I say my new fav MMC in the series!?! And Liv?!? What an absolute FIERCE woman!! I’m obsessed with her!! Liv instilled so much confidence in Carter while he helped her see that she didn’t have to do it all on her own. They were the literal perfect pair and healed each other in all the best ways!
Kandi Steiner continues to be an absolute queen in the world of romance authors and she isn’t slowing down any time soon! Devoured is an understatement!!
Thank you @kandisteiner + @valentine_pr_ for an ARC of this incredible book!!
October 18, 2025
⭐️♾️ 🌶️4 ARC Review “Two million dollars, and all I have to do is help you unleash your freak?” “See? Tell me this isn’t a deal you can refuse.”
In the words of Carter Fabri, Jesus, Mary and Gretzky… That was… 🥵🔥🤭🤤🥺😭😍🥹❤️❤️
I’ve been a Kandi stan since the first ALLTW release, and I’ve read everything she’s written since then and been an ARC team member for 3yrs now and I have to say this is Kandi’s spiciest work yet. I mean, spice from chapter 2?! And it’s not regular spice. It’s binding, it’s pegging, it’s a mirror scene that’ll have you SWEATING, it’s BDSM at its finest. But still at the heart of it all we have the famous Steiner connections and deep seated emotions to boot.
These two were an absolute match made in heaven. Carter’s self deprication and tension cutting jokes vs Livia’s Miss Independence and Domme personalities really captivate you. I loved the virgin/domme, reverse age gap dynamic in this, and Carter’s banter and corny one liners really gave me the cheekiness I was expecting from him! Under all that though, it was their mutual insecurities that called to me the most.
Having been through something very similar to Livia myself, my heart went out to her. Her past created her closed off, need for control nature that we know and love but the pain that stems from it is very real. Kandi captured that perfectly for me. I wanted to wrap her up in a huge wad of cotton wool and protect her from the monster in her past. I wanted Carter to be everything she craved, hungered for, and needed… and he definitely was. I loved seeing her get her dreams and sympathised and felt her emotions every step of the way.
Carter’s past was traumatic in a different way but no less tragic than Liv’s. His confidence boost from her was astounding - he became an absolute rock, able to take a joke as well as give them, understand a woman’s needs and fears while also addressing his own in profound ways. He became confident, unshakeable, a fucking whizz at dirty talk and the pillar of support and strength that he not only needed to be for Liv, but for himself too.
Seeing everyone from the group having their happy endings continued was such a tear jerker! I cried for Liv and Carter when their happiness came full circle with their love. When Maven and Liv plan their next steps in life, I cried. When we saw Aleks and Mia, and Will and Chloe, and Jaxson and Grace?? I cried again. This series has a hold on my heart in the best possible way and I will be so sad when it ends.
This is the spiciest book Kandi has written for sure. I love the way she is bracing this new part of her writing skills and as always, absolutely smashing it! She once again had me searching for my husband - frantically 😂 - because these aren’t basic scenes. There’s detail, there’s building feelings, there’s desperation. And I am here for it all!! Especially with the fleshlight and mirror scenes!!
Thank you, again, Kandi. For having me as part of your ARC team. I truly treasure every release from you ❤️
In the words of Carter Fabri, Jesus, Mary and Gretzky… That was… 🥵🔥🤭🤤🥺😭😍🥹❤️❤️
I’ve been a Kandi stan since the first ALLTW release, and I’ve read everything she’s written since then and been an ARC team member for 3yrs now and I have to say this is Kandi’s spiciest work yet. I mean, spice from chapter 2?! And it’s not regular spice. It’s binding, it’s pegging, it’s a mirror scene that’ll have you SWEATING, it’s BDSM at its finest. But still at the heart of it all we have the famous Steiner connections and deep seated emotions to boot.
These two were an absolute match made in heaven. Carter’s self deprication and tension cutting jokes vs Livia’s Miss Independence and Domme personalities really captivate you. I loved the virgin/domme, reverse age gap dynamic in this, and Carter’s banter and corny one liners really gave me the cheekiness I was expecting from him! Under all that though, it was their mutual insecurities that called to me the most.
Having been through something very similar to Livia myself, my heart went out to her. Her past created her closed off, need for control nature that we know and love but the pain that stems from it is very real. Kandi captured that perfectly for me. I wanted to wrap her up in a huge wad of cotton wool and protect her from the monster in her past. I wanted Carter to be everything she craved, hungered for, and needed… and he definitely was. I loved seeing her get her dreams and sympathised and felt her emotions every step of the way.
Carter’s past was traumatic in a different way but no less tragic than Liv’s. His confidence boost from her was astounding - he became an absolute rock, able to take a joke as well as give them, understand a woman’s needs and fears while also addressing his own in profound ways. He became confident, unshakeable, a fucking whizz at dirty talk and the pillar of support and strength that he not only needed to be for Liv, but for himself too.
Seeing everyone from the group having their happy endings continued was such a tear jerker! I cried for Liv and Carter when their happiness came full circle with their love. When Maven and Liv plan their next steps in life, I cried. When we saw Aleks and Mia, and Will and Chloe, and Jaxson and Grace?? I cried again. This series has a hold on my heart in the best possible way and I will be so sad when it ends.
This is the spiciest book Kandi has written for sure. I love the way she is bracing this new part of her writing skills and as always, absolutely smashing it! She once again had me searching for my husband - frantically 😂 - because these aren’t basic scenes. There’s detail, there’s building feelings, there’s desperation. And I am here for it all!! Especially with the fleshlight and mirror scenes!!
Thank you, again, Kandi. For having me as part of your ARC team. I truly treasure every release from you ❤️
November 20, 2025
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🎧 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
If you had told me that Carter Fabri was going to steal my heart and become my favorite Mmc of the series... well I absolutely would have believed you because I will always, always fall for the golden retriever MMC.
But he even exceeded my high expectations. And Livia, I didn't think I was going to connect with her as much as I did, and will now completely burn the world down for her.
Also Zamboni gets honorable mention, because who doesn't love a hockey named doggo.
I also say I listened to this one, and I highly, highly recommend. It's probably one of my favorite audios of the year. I really think I loved Livia as much as I did because of how spectacular the narration was.
✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Virgin MMC/ Teach me
✨ Golden Retriever MMC
✨ He Falls First
✨BDSM' k*nk exploration
I really loved the dynamic between Carter and Livia with her being the experienced one. Their dynamic made so much sense when you got to their backstories and I think seeing the different ways the two of them connected over their pasts, just gave so much depth to their story.
Carter is the book boyfriend dreams are made of. The way he loved Livia without hesitation just made me melt and fall in love with them so hard.
I slow loved the spice and how much it drove their stories forward. I also loved how much it made me sweat because 🥵
This whole series just hooked me, and I never want to say goodbye to them.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🎧 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
If you had told me that Carter Fabri was going to steal my heart and become my favorite Mmc of the series... well I absolutely would have believed you because I will always, always fall for the golden retriever MMC.
But he even exceeded my high expectations. And Livia, I didn't think I was going to connect with her as much as I did, and will now completely burn the world down for her.
Also Zamboni gets honorable mention, because who doesn't love a hockey named doggo.
I also say I listened to this one, and I highly, highly recommend. It's probably one of my favorite audios of the year. I really think I loved Livia as much as I did because of how spectacular the narration was.
✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Virgin MMC/ Teach me
✨ Golden Retriever MMC
✨ He Falls First
✨BDSM' k*nk exploration
I really loved the dynamic between Carter and Livia with her being the experienced one. Their dynamic made so much sense when you got to their backstories and I think seeing the different ways the two of them connected over their pasts, just gave so much depth to their story.
Carter is the book boyfriend dreams are made of. The way he loved Livia without hesitation just made me melt and fall in love with them so hard.
I slow loved the spice and how much it drove their stories forward. I also loved how much it made me sweat because 🥵
This whole series just hooked me, and I never want to say goodbye to them.
October 30, 2025
Holy Hotness yall! This book was AMAZING! I found it so interesting that your standard pacing in a romance was completely reversed. We had ALLLLLLL of the spice right off the bat. A contract- nothing more. Then once they were more comfortable things cooled off just a bit. I absolutely LOVED Carter and Livia. I loved the armor that they both wore and how they showed each other it was ok to take it off every once in a while- with people you feel safe around. Livia had this hard exterior from a tragic past. Carter was your standard golden retriever using this as a way to protect himself. I have only read book 1 so was a little lost on the banter that was supposed to happen between them in books 2-4 but I can tell you that their chemistry was ELECTRIC. Livia as a domme was just wow. Carter being open to trying anything- ridiculously hot. But I also loved that Carter had a real crush on Livia. He just didn't want to give himself false hope that anything could ever be between them. I love how he used their contract to lower her walls. To show her what being loved would feel like. To show her what being worshipped in a true fashion would feel like. I loved when Livia finally opened up to Carter about her trauma and how she realized she wanted him. They were absolutely adorable together :)
Livia has walls so high- NO ONE will ever be able to climb them. That is all by design. She wields sex like a weapon, and she is it's master. So when Carter Fabri comes to her asking for lessons. Asking for her to show him her ways, she finds herself resisting. It is no secret that Carter has been shameless flirting with her for years. Some small part of her thinks he might be her undoing, but how could she pass up this much money. It would set her up for a long time and give her that much more to be able to go towards her goal. So she says yes- she is now legally his Domme. She expects his goofy side. His flirting. What she doesn't expect is butterflies or how much his willingness and honesty turn HER on. She is supposed to be in control. But the more she is around him, the more she finds herself pushing the boundaries with the potential of giving him control. The more she finds herself looking forward to their lessons not just for the pleasure aspect but for how Carter makes her feel. He makes her feel like she is worthy. Like he could be her person. But these are all dangerous thoughts. The most important people in her life abandoned her when she needed them most. But even after she lowers her walls and lets Carter in- he commits to staying. He loves her. He wants her, not just in the bedroom, but her. And though she doesn't want to trust it, how can she not when she feels so safe with him.
Carter has had a crush on Livia from afar for a while. She has always treated him like a buzzing fly she can swat away. So when his hairbrained idea unfolds and he asks Livia to be his teacher in the bedroom, he expects her to laugh at him. He doesn't expect her to say yes and then make him see stars. He doesn't expect these experiences to be freeing in more than one way. See Carter has trauma in his past from a coach. And even after he tells Livia about this, she helps him through it. She lets him know it is ok to fail. She will be there to catch him. He finds himself trying to play it cool when he is around her when in reality he wants to be more than a bedroom toy for her. He wants her lazy days and her sad days. He wants ALL of her days. And now that she has let him in. He thinks it can't get any better than this. And then it does. And now he finds himself pinching himself to make sure he isn't dreaming since everything he could ever want is happening with his dream woman.
I listened to most of while reading on my Kindle- and I have to say that Aaron Donahue as Carter was BREATHTAKING. He was part of the reason I gave this 5 stars. I did not want to stop listening. There was so much passion in this book. The spice was SOOOO spicy in the absolute best way. Like in ways I hadn't read before and was OHHH so excited about. I loved the character development because part of submissive play is trust. And watching these two truly trust each other and lean into that was wonderful :) Watching Livia realize that she didn't have to wear her armor all the time and Carter realize he had a safe place for failing was SOOO real. It all felt very relatable. I can't recommend this book enough yall- specifically the audio!! Also I am planning on going back and reading books 2-4 and can't WAIT to read coach's book.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kandi for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Livia has walls so high- NO ONE will ever be able to climb them. That is all by design. She wields sex like a weapon, and she is it's master. So when Carter Fabri comes to her asking for lessons. Asking for her to show him her ways, she finds herself resisting. It is no secret that Carter has been shameless flirting with her for years. Some small part of her thinks he might be her undoing, but how could she pass up this much money. It would set her up for a long time and give her that much more to be able to go towards her goal. So she says yes- she is now legally his Domme. She expects his goofy side. His flirting. What she doesn't expect is butterflies or how much his willingness and honesty turn HER on. She is supposed to be in control. But the more she is around him, the more she finds herself pushing the boundaries with the potential of giving him control. The more she finds herself looking forward to their lessons not just for the pleasure aspect but for how Carter makes her feel. He makes her feel like she is worthy. Like he could be her person. But these are all dangerous thoughts. The most important people in her life abandoned her when she needed them most. But even after she lowers her walls and lets Carter in- he commits to staying. He loves her. He wants her, not just in the bedroom, but her. And though she doesn't want to trust it, how can she not when she feels so safe with him.
Carter has had a crush on Livia from afar for a while. She has always treated him like a buzzing fly she can swat away. So when his hairbrained idea unfolds and he asks Livia to be his teacher in the bedroom, he expects her to laugh at him. He doesn't expect her to say yes and then make him see stars. He doesn't expect these experiences to be freeing in more than one way. See Carter has trauma in his past from a coach. And even after he tells Livia about this, she helps him through it. She lets him know it is ok to fail. She will be there to catch him. He finds himself trying to play it cool when he is around her when in reality he wants to be more than a bedroom toy for her. He wants her lazy days and her sad days. He wants ALL of her days. And now that she has let him in. He thinks it can't get any better than this. And then it does. And now he finds himself pinching himself to make sure he isn't dreaming since everything he could ever want is happening with his dream woman.
I listened to most of while reading on my Kindle- and I have to say that Aaron Donahue as Carter was BREATHTAKING. He was part of the reason I gave this 5 stars. I did not want to stop listening. There was so much passion in this book. The spice was SOOOO spicy in the absolute best way. Like in ways I hadn't read before and was OHHH so excited about. I loved the character development because part of submissive play is trust. And watching these two truly trust each other and lean into that was wonderful :) Watching Livia realize that she didn't have to wear her armor all the time and Carter realize he had a safe place for failing was SOOO real. It all felt very relatable. I can't recommend this book enough yall- specifically the audio!! Also I am planning on going back and reading books 2-4 and can't WAIT to read coach's book.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Kandi for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
October 12, 2025
Oh. My. GOD. Stand Your Ground by Kandi Steiner absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible. I’m not even exaggerating when I say this might be my favorite Kandi Steiner book ever. I went into it thinking I was getting the typical “virgin hero gets sex lessons from an experienced Domme” kind of story, and while, yes, that’s technically the setup… it’s also so much more than that. This book had me blushing, tearing up, and clutching my chest like some kind of emotional support blanket.
Let’s start with Carter. Sweet, soft, determined Carter. My poor boy who just wants to prove he’s not a failure. His backstory absolutely broke me. The way Kandi peeled back his layers little by little, showing his vulnerability, his longing to be seen, to be good enough, was so deeply emotional. I cried for him, not because of pity, but because of how real his pain felt. He’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for him every step of the way.
And then there’s Livia. Oh, Livia. What an absolutely phenomenal, complex character. She’s confident and in control on the outside, but inside? She’s carrying so much. Her past, like her trauma, her reasons for becoming who she is, felt so personal. I related to her in ways I didn’t expect to. That feeling of wanting to be in control because you’ve been hurt before? Of building an identity around strength because vulnerability once cost you too much? Yeah… I felt that. Kandi wrote her with such empathy and respect that it was impossible not to love her.
The dynamic between Carter and Livia? It really was written so perfectly. What starts as a cold, carefully outlined contract quickly becomes something raw, tender, and transformative. They balance each other so beautifully; she teaches him confidence and self-trust, and he reminds her that vulnerability doesn’t mean weakness. Watching their connection evolve from lessons and boundaries into genuine care and love felt organic and earned. I felt every shift, every unspoken moment, every look that lingers a second too long.
And can we talk about how hot this book is?! Like, holy hell, Kandi did not hold back. But what I loved most is that the spice always served the story; it wasn’t just there for shock value. It was about trust, growth, and self-discovery. Carter’s exploration of kink and pleasure was so refreshing because it challenged the idea of what “dominance” means (and honestly, what being a man means), and Kandi handled it with so much nuance. I loved that he was curious, open, and respectful and it made every scene between them that much more powerful.
Stand Your Ground isn’t just a D/s romance. Kandi Steiner absolutely outdid herself with this one. It is emotional, bold, beautifully written, and deeply human. This book is going to live rent free in my head (and heart) for a long, long time.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Kandi Steiner for the eARC of this book.
Let’s start with Carter. Sweet, soft, determined Carter. My poor boy who just wants to prove he’s not a failure. His backstory absolutely broke me. The way Kandi peeled back his layers little by little, showing his vulnerability, his longing to be seen, to be good enough, was so deeply emotional. I cried for him, not because of pity, but because of how real his pain felt. He’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for him every step of the way.
And then there’s Livia. Oh, Livia. What an absolutely phenomenal, complex character. She’s confident and in control on the outside, but inside? She’s carrying so much. Her past, like her trauma, her reasons for becoming who she is, felt so personal. I related to her in ways I didn’t expect to. That feeling of wanting to be in control because you’ve been hurt before? Of building an identity around strength because vulnerability once cost you too much? Yeah… I felt that. Kandi wrote her with such empathy and respect that it was impossible not to love her.
The dynamic between Carter and Livia? It really was written so perfectly. What starts as a cold, carefully outlined contract quickly becomes something raw, tender, and transformative. They balance each other so beautifully; she teaches him confidence and self-trust, and he reminds her that vulnerability doesn’t mean weakness. Watching their connection evolve from lessons and boundaries into genuine care and love felt organic and earned. I felt every shift, every unspoken moment, every look that lingers a second too long.
And can we talk about how hot this book is?! Like, holy hell, Kandi did not hold back. But what I loved most is that the spice always served the story; it wasn’t just there for shock value. It was about trust, growth, and self-discovery. Carter’s exploration of kink and pleasure was so refreshing because it challenged the idea of what “dominance” means (and honestly, what being a man means), and Kandi handled it with so much nuance. I loved that he was curious, open, and respectful and it made every scene between them that much more powerful.
Stand Your Ground isn’t just a D/s romance. Kandi Steiner absolutely outdid herself with this one. It is emotional, bold, beautifully written, and deeply human. This book is going to live rent free in my head (and heart) for a long, long time.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Kandi Steiner for the eARC of this book.
October 20, 2025
3.5/5✨️ 4/5🌶
Stand Your Ground (arc)💛
Kandi is back with our favorite hockey team, the Tampa Bay Ospreys, with the Stand Your Ground for Carter and Livia story. If you've read the series from the beginning, you've gotten glimpses of Carter and Livia, and I couldn't wait to read their story, as their story was deliciously spicy, complex, and quite touching.
If you're a fan of Consider Me and 50 Shades of Grey, you will enjoy this story. Cater has been obsessed with Livia, and she puts him in his place pretty quickly, saying that nothing will happen between them. That is until Cater has a proposition that Livia can't turn down. Livia has plans, big plans for her future, and when Cater offers her 2 million dollars, Livia quickly agrees, as Cater doesn't have great luck with women; he's a virgin, and he wants Livia to teach him lessons with women, not only in the bedroom but also to conquer his fears to attract his perfect girl. The only issue is his perfect girl is Livia. As these two find themselves between the sheets, in a sub/dom partnership, they soon start to open up to each other on a deeper level as their relationship becomes real, and they can't deny that their relationship is more than sex.
Cater, I absolutely loved his character; he's the quintessential golden retriever MMC. He did seem very naive for his age sometimes, but I really loved his growth throughout his story. I thought his mental health rep was fantastic and going from the class clown to gaining the respect of his teammates, he was very sweet and always noticing what Livia always needed.
Livia is a BOSS!!! I had a hard time connecting with her because of how much of an ice queen she could be sometimes, but my heart broke for all she had been through. I loved the softer side of her and the importance of the female friendships for her.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the sub/dom relationship, especially Carter being a virgin, it felt very off and he seemed to go along with what Livia wanted. At times it felt like he liked her more then she liked him; I always felt he was trying too hard. Yet, I loved each couples catch up and showing that family isn't blood related. I can't wait for coaches book, I already know I'll be toxic and I'm very intrigued.
Thank you Kandi for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💛
Stand Your Ground (arc)💛
Kandi is back with our favorite hockey team, the Tampa Bay Ospreys, with the Stand Your Ground for Carter and Livia story. If you've read the series from the beginning, you've gotten glimpses of Carter and Livia, and I couldn't wait to read their story, as their story was deliciously spicy, complex, and quite touching.
If you're a fan of Consider Me and 50 Shades of Grey, you will enjoy this story. Cater has been obsessed with Livia, and she puts him in his place pretty quickly, saying that nothing will happen between them. That is until Cater has a proposition that Livia can't turn down. Livia has plans, big plans for her future, and when Cater offers her 2 million dollars, Livia quickly agrees, as Cater doesn't have great luck with women; he's a virgin, and he wants Livia to teach him lessons with women, not only in the bedroom but also to conquer his fears to attract his perfect girl. The only issue is his perfect girl is Livia. As these two find themselves between the sheets, in a sub/dom partnership, they soon start to open up to each other on a deeper level as their relationship becomes real, and they can't deny that their relationship is more than sex.
Cater, I absolutely loved his character; he's the quintessential golden retriever MMC. He did seem very naive for his age sometimes, but I really loved his growth throughout his story. I thought his mental health rep was fantastic and going from the class clown to gaining the respect of his teammates, he was very sweet and always noticing what Livia always needed.
Livia is a BOSS!!! I had a hard time connecting with her because of how much of an ice queen she could be sometimes, but my heart broke for all she had been through. I loved the softer side of her and the importance of the female friendships for her.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the sub/dom relationship, especially Carter being a virgin, it felt very off and he seemed to go along with what Livia wanted. At times it felt like he liked her more then she liked him; I always felt he was trying too hard. Yet, I loved each couples catch up and showing that family isn't blood related. I can't wait for coaches book, I already know I'll be toxic and I'm very intrigued.
Thank you Kandi for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💛
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2025
I finished this book in less than 24 hours, I’ve been waiting for Livia’s and Carters book since book one: Meet Your Match. This book didn’t disappoint it was everything and more. Actually it’s probably my favorite book of the series.
We meet Carter in book 1 he’s the rookie and throughout the series he was moved to the AHL he’s back now officially on the Tampa Ospreys team and a rising star. He’s sweet, funny attractive but is inexperienced in the dating world and sex. Enter in Livia she’s his hockey team, dentist, and the most beautiful woman ever. He’s also wanted her. So when Carter offers 2 million dollars for her to teach him everything he needs to know in the bedroom and how to land girls, Livia decides to help. But Carter is a great student and is learning fast. Livia finds herself enjoying her time with him and her walls slowly falling….
Stand Your Ground has some of the best banter and found family themes that I have read this year. This book is so much more than the spicy lessons Carter asks Livia for. There’s exploration of kink, standing your ground and becoming more confident and at one point one of the characters confronts their past stands up to their parents and both of them learning how to open up and communicate with each other. The book will have you laughing, swooning, fanning yourself because some of the scenes are just so damn HOT,but also shedding some tears. I was so sad when the story was over because I read it so fast but also extremely happy with how it ended.This is one friend group I wish I can be apart of. I know I can always count on Kandi Steiner to break my heart and put it back together.
Thank you to the author for this e-arc
We meet Carter in book 1 he’s the rookie and throughout the series he was moved to the AHL he’s back now officially on the Tampa Ospreys team and a rising star. He’s sweet, funny attractive but is inexperienced in the dating world and sex. Enter in Livia she’s his hockey team, dentist, and the most beautiful woman ever. He’s also wanted her. So when Carter offers 2 million dollars for her to teach him everything he needs to know in the bedroom and how to land girls, Livia decides to help. But Carter is a great student and is learning fast. Livia finds herself enjoying her time with him and her walls slowly falling….
Stand Your Ground has some of the best banter and found family themes that I have read this year. This book is so much more than the spicy lessons Carter asks Livia for. There’s exploration of kink, standing your ground and becoming more confident and at one point one of the characters confronts their past stands up to their parents and both of them learning how to open up and communicate with each other. The book will have you laughing, swooning, fanning yourself because some of the scenes are just so damn HOT,but also shedding some tears. I was so sad when the story was over because I read it so fast but also extremely happy with how it ended.This is one friend group I wish I can be apart of. I know I can always count on Kandi Steiner to break my heart and put it back together.
Thank you to the author for this e-arc
October 20, 2025
This was by far one of Kandi’s spiciest books yet that I have read and I loved every second of it! I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical at first, thinking it might be all spice and no story, but I was pleasantly surprised. Carter and Liv’s story is so much more than spice, it’s emotional, funny, and deeply heartfelt.
Carter absolutely stole the show for me, his humor, charm, and quick wit had me laughing out loud more times than I can count. And Liv? Her need for control, and the way she slowly lets that guard down with Carter, was just so amazing. Their chemistry was electric, but what really got me was how well they communicated and truly saw each other beneath all the banter and tension.
Once again, Kandi completely knocked it out of the park, and I honestly can’t wait to see what she gives us next!
Carter absolutely stole the show for me, his humor, charm, and quick wit had me laughing out loud more times than I can count. And Liv? Her need for control, and the way she slowly lets that guard down with Carter, was just so amazing. Their chemistry was electric, but what really got me was how well they communicated and truly saw each other beneath all the banter and tension.
Once again, Kandi completely knocked it out of the park, and I honestly can’t wait to see what she gives us next!
October 26, 2025
This was sooo fucking good!!!
October 17, 2025
✨️ARC Review✨️
2.5⭐️ for Stand Your Ground by Kandi Steiner
What a disappointment this one turned out to be! It started off fairly well, a tad bit insta-lust for my tastes but I was intrigued enough by the story to keep going, until it all went to s*it.
First, the MMC being a virgin didn't really work for me; you're telling me he's a *professional athlete* and he can't land a woman? Please!
Second, the Domme/BDSM stuff. It was fine, I have nothing against it, except him calling her "mommy"?! Instant ick! So much ick! All of the ick!!
Third, I'd have loved for them to develop a deeper relationship before falling in love, it felt very surface level and based on s*x, and while both characters have a history of trauma, it wasn't explored as much as I would've liked.
And to top it all off, I got hit with the unexpected pregnancy trope 80% into the book. Seriously?! I was already hanging on by a thread to this story, skimming the smut to try and find the plot (this could've been a novella if the smut was taken out) and then it happened: the words "you're pregnant" were on the page and I lost my mind.
I usually love Kandi Steiner's books but this one just wasn't for me at all.
Thank you to Good Girls PR for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
2.5⭐️ for Stand Your Ground by Kandi Steiner
What a disappointment this one turned out to be! It started off fairly well, a tad bit insta-lust for my tastes but I was intrigued enough by the story to keep going, until it all went to s*it.
First, the MMC being a virgin didn't really work for me; you're telling me he's a *professional athlete* and he can't land a woman? Please!
Second, the Domme/BDSM stuff. It was fine, I have nothing against it, except him calling her "mommy"?! Instant ick! So much ick! All of the ick!!
Third, I'd have loved for them to develop a deeper relationship before falling in love, it felt very surface level and based on s*x, and while both characters have a history of trauma, it wasn't explored as much as I would've liked.
And to top it all off, I got hit with the unexpected pregnancy trope 80% into the book. Seriously?! I was already hanging on by a thread to this story, skimming the smut to try and find the plot (this could've been a novella if the smut was taken out) and then it happened: the words "you're pregnant" were on the page and I lost my mind.
I usually love Kandi Steiner's books but this one just wasn't for me at all.
Thank you to Good Girls PR for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
This started off way too lustful for me and their relationship moved so quick. But towards the end I really started to like them as a couple, I love that they both opened up to each other and became vulnerable and accepting of one another. Carter is the definition of down bad, golden retriever and he was all in for her. Overall this was a cute, spicy, bingeable fun read ✨
October 20, 2025
Well, holy crap did Kandi Steiner come out swinging in Stand Your Ground!
Unexpected. Hot. Vulnerable. And so much trust that built between the MCs. I couldn't help but fall in love with Carter and Liv's story.
Carter Fabri is our sweet golden retriever who is inexperienced when it comes to women and is usually the happy go lucky fun guy. He's been hitting on the more mature and experienced Dr Livia Young since day one. Everyone in their friend group has seen it as a joke and knows there really is no chance. But now with Carter fully in the NHL, he wants to up his game in the bedroom. And who better to ask for help than Ms Experience herself. But Liv is a busy professional woman. Will she see this attempt as one of Carter's jokes or will she help Carter become the man that he wants to be?
'We hadn't just crossed the line of our friendship, we'd bungee jumped over the damn thing.'
Stand Your Ground is the fifth book in the Kings of the Ice series and Kandi took a huge risk with this one. It's a departure from most of her other books in that she leveled up the spice times 10. Not only that, she gave us an age gap and a "teacher/student" situation when it came to the sex. And it is FIRE!
"If you want to be good at this, you need to listen-both to my verbal and nonverbal commands. Understand?...
Good. Now make me come."
But this story was so much more than the spice and the Domme/sub scenario. I mean, we get a lot of it, and we get some pretty explicit scenes to Carter learning from Livia, but we also get a lot of vulnerable moments from both of them. Where we begin to understand what made them into the people they are today and how they give those vulnerable moments to each other and learn to read each other's cues and provide a safety they never felt before.
"Here, you're safe to stumble. To be awkward. To not know the answer. To ask questions....Here, you get to feel what it's like to fail without consequence."
And as with any Kandi Steiner book, you get the emotional and let me tell you, while I thought this book was super spicy, the emotional parts brought me to tears on a few occasions. Steiner knows how to balance it all and used the intimate scenes to really push not only the story forward, but used it as character growth. You don't always get that when it comes to the more explicit books, but Kandi was flawless in the way she executed this story.
While this was a learning situation for Carter, it was nice to see our tough as nails Livia benefit from their arrangement too. To see her allow some softness and to put some trust in a man like she had never done before. Their friendship and their understanding grew out of a contract that ended up being so much more.
"Give me the part of your world that's weighing you down right now. Let me carry it for you for the rest of the day."
And I can't forget about the friend group and how they all come together to support each other in their lives. I think Maven and Livia's friendship really stood out in this one, especially with Livia and a family situation. This group of characters has so much love and is truly special.
All I'll say is if you have any questions about reading this book because it is a departure for Kandi, just trust the process. Steiner takes us on a beautiful and spicy journey from beginning to end.
If you like:
Sports/hockey romance with a slight age that includes spicy lessons and opposites attract with him falling first, then this is definitely not to be missed.
Unexpected. Hot. Vulnerable. And so much trust that built between the MCs. I couldn't help but fall in love with Carter and Liv's story.
Carter Fabri is our sweet golden retriever who is inexperienced when it comes to women and is usually the happy go lucky fun guy. He's been hitting on the more mature and experienced Dr Livia Young since day one. Everyone in their friend group has seen it as a joke and knows there really is no chance. But now with Carter fully in the NHL, he wants to up his game in the bedroom. And who better to ask for help than Ms Experience herself. But Liv is a busy professional woman. Will she see this attempt as one of Carter's jokes or will she help Carter become the man that he wants to be?
'We hadn't just crossed the line of our friendship, we'd bungee jumped over the damn thing.'
Stand Your Ground is the fifth book in the Kings of the Ice series and Kandi took a huge risk with this one. It's a departure from most of her other books in that she leveled up the spice times 10. Not only that, she gave us an age gap and a "teacher/student" situation when it came to the sex. And it is FIRE!
"If you want to be good at this, you need to listen-both to my verbal and nonverbal commands. Understand?...
Good. Now make me come."
But this story was so much more than the spice and the Domme/sub scenario. I mean, we get a lot of it, and we get some pretty explicit scenes to Carter learning from Livia, but we also get a lot of vulnerable moments from both of them. Where we begin to understand what made them into the people they are today and how they give those vulnerable moments to each other and learn to read each other's cues and provide a safety they never felt before.
"Here, you're safe to stumble. To be awkward. To not know the answer. To ask questions....Here, you get to feel what it's like to fail without consequence."
And as with any Kandi Steiner book, you get the emotional and let me tell you, while I thought this book was super spicy, the emotional parts brought me to tears on a few occasions. Steiner knows how to balance it all and used the intimate scenes to really push not only the story forward, but used it as character growth. You don't always get that when it comes to the more explicit books, but Kandi was flawless in the way she executed this story.
While this was a learning situation for Carter, it was nice to see our tough as nails Livia benefit from their arrangement too. To see her allow some softness and to put some trust in a man like she had never done before. Their friendship and their understanding grew out of a contract that ended up being so much more.
"Give me the part of your world that's weighing you down right now. Let me carry it for you for the rest of the day."
And I can't forget about the friend group and how they all come together to support each other in their lives. I think Maven and Livia's friendship really stood out in this one, especially with Livia and a family situation. This group of characters has so much love and is truly special.
All I'll say is if you have any questions about reading this book because it is a departure for Kandi, just trust the process. Steiner takes us on a beautiful and spicy journey from beginning to end.
If you like:
Sports/hockey romance with a slight age that includes spicy lessons and opposites attract with him falling first, then this is definitely not to be missed.
October 19, 2025
Stand Your Ground is the fifth in the Kings of the Ice series by Kandi Steiner and it’s Carter and Livia’s story. I knew this one would be amazing and I was right. When I started reading this book, I just couldn’t put it down and I read it in less than 24 hours.
The premise of this book was great, Carter and Livia were interesting and entertaining characters, so with them together? It had everything to be an incredible story and it was!
The book fully delivered on the spicy lessons promised in the synopsis, it was sensual and very spicy. The chemistry between the two of them was truly explosive. What made the arrangement so compelling wasn’t just the heat, but the power dynamic. The control, the rules, the trust… It was addictive.
Beyond that, the emotional journey was the heart of the story. It was beautiful to see Carter and Liv gradually open up and trust each other. Seeing Carter realises he was worthy of being loved just the way he was, while Liv learns to finally drop her guard and accept love without fear of getting hurt was heartwarming.
The moments with the group of friends — all together or Carter with his teammates and Livia with the girls — were sometimes funny and sometimes touching. But they were all wonderful.
This book was well-written and perfectly paced. The story was engaging and captivating. It was about two imperfect people finding their perfect happy ending together and I can’t wait for everyone to read it.
What you’ll find:
🏒 Pro Hockey Romance
🔑 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Virgin Hero
🔑 Spicy Lessons
🏒 He Falls First
🔑 BD$M
🏒 He’s Obsessed
🔑 Opposites Attract
🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🔑 Workplace Romance
*I’d like to say thank you to Kandi Steiner and Valentine PR for giving me the opportunity to read Stand Your Ground as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.75 ⭐️
The premise of this book was great, Carter and Livia were interesting and entertaining characters, so with them together? It had everything to be an incredible story and it was!
The book fully delivered on the spicy lessons promised in the synopsis, it was sensual and very spicy. The chemistry between the two of them was truly explosive. What made the arrangement so compelling wasn’t just the heat, but the power dynamic. The control, the rules, the trust… It was addictive.
Beyond that, the emotional journey was the heart of the story. It was beautiful to see Carter and Liv gradually open up and trust each other. Seeing Carter realises he was worthy of being loved just the way he was, while Liv learns to finally drop her guard and accept love without fear of getting hurt was heartwarming.
The moments with the group of friends — all together or Carter with his teammates and Livia with the girls — were sometimes funny and sometimes touching. But they were all wonderful.
This book was well-written and perfectly paced. The story was engaging and captivating. It was about two imperfect people finding their perfect happy ending together and I can’t wait for everyone to read it.
What you’ll find:
🏒 Pro Hockey Romance
🔑 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Virgin Hero
🔑 Spicy Lessons
🏒 He Falls First
🔑 BD$M
🏒 He’s Obsessed
🔑 Opposites Attract
🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🔑 Workplace Romance
*I’d like to say thank you to Kandi Steiner and Valentine PR for giving me the opportunity to read Stand Your Ground as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.75 ⭐️
October 28, 2025
Well, well, well... no one is more surprised and elated than myself in admitting I LOVED THE SHIT OUT OF THIS BOOK.
I'm gonna start by saying that, to be perfectly honest, I almost didn't take the ARC for this, because I knew the "main trope" was one of my least favorites. I don't care for the "tough" FMC, the bad bitch, let alone full-blown "Domme". I am not much into BDSM, unless it's light and tastefully written.
I. AM. PICKY.
So. Naturally, I went into this hesitantly. I only decided to read it because I love this series, and I didn't want to miss any information that might connect to the next and final book. I didn't want to miss anything, period. But admittedly, I was nervous, as I knew I was gonna be taken out of my comfort zone...
There was a low key excitement in all this too, tho. Being taken out of one's comfort zone often results in a great experience in the end. And the minute I picked up the book, and pressed play on the 🎧audiobook🎧 - which is FANTASTIC, btw; literally couldn't have picked better narrators to suit these 2!!! - the excitement only grew as the pages went by. These 2 characters have CHEMISTRY!!! Like... REAL, TANGIBLE, EXPLOSIVE 💥.
Kandi did an amazing job at finding the right balance between the characters. And the growth and development they both go through, is a delight to witness. This "Domme" I was so afraid to get to know in depth, had me totally falling in love with her. Under that tough, seemingly cold exterior, I uncovered a vulnerable, warm, sensitive and empathetic woman 🥹
And sweet, submissive, silly Carter showed sides of him that were so unexpectedly "daddy"🔥: he was so nurturing, protective, patient and supportive. Yet, those qualities were somehow totally fitting to his personality. LOYAL to a fault, this sweet boy. I love him so much!! 💙
I don't like to write long reviews, but I really felt the need to explain just how much I enjoyed this book DESPITE my being intimidated by it. Kandi took one of my least favorite tropes and developed it into a fun, emotional, unputdownable read. This story also helped me understand what control in the bedroom really means, what relinquishing power symbolizes, and how communication is truly THE KEY.
I take my hat off to you, Kandi. You seriously blew me away with this one!! Well done!! 👏👏👏
***
"If this was all I could give her, I’d give it willingly. If this was all she’d let me have, I’d take it like a greedy thief. Whatever lesson she wanted to teach me, I was ready to learn. And if all she needed was to use me tonight, I’d crawl to her, heart bound, begging for the privilege."
“This isn’t about making you less of a man,” I said. “It’s about rewriting what manhood means for you. It’s about trusting someone enough to let them push past your boundaries with only your pleasure in mind.”
“I meant what I said that night you came to my house for the first time. You’re beautiful, Liv. But your looks?” He shook his head. “They’re the least interesting thing about you.”
"But one thing was certain. I was a better woman for having that man’s love, for letting him in when it felt impossible to do. And I’d always be thankful that, even at his most insecure, he was never too afraid to shoot his shot when it came to me."
I'm gonna start by saying that, to be perfectly honest, I almost didn't take the ARC for this, because I knew the "main trope" was one of my least favorites. I don't care for the "tough" FMC, the bad bitch, let alone full-blown "Domme". I am not much into BDSM, unless it's light and tastefully written.
I. AM. PICKY.
So. Naturally, I went into this hesitantly. I only decided to read it because I love this series, and I didn't want to miss any information that might connect to the next and final book. I didn't want to miss anything, period. But admittedly, I was nervous, as I knew I was gonna be taken out of my comfort zone...
There was a low key excitement in all this too, tho. Being taken out of one's comfort zone often results in a great experience in the end. And the minute I picked up the book, and pressed play on the 🎧audiobook🎧 - which is FANTASTIC, btw; literally couldn't have picked better narrators to suit these 2!!! - the excitement only grew as the pages went by. These 2 characters have CHEMISTRY!!! Like... REAL, TANGIBLE, EXPLOSIVE 💥.
Kandi did an amazing job at finding the right balance between the characters. And the growth and development they both go through, is a delight to witness. This "Domme" I was so afraid to get to know in depth, had me totally falling in love with her. Under that tough, seemingly cold exterior, I uncovered a vulnerable, warm, sensitive and empathetic woman 🥹
And sweet, submissive, silly Carter showed sides of him that were so unexpectedly "daddy"🔥: he was so nurturing, protective, patient and supportive. Yet, those qualities were somehow totally fitting to his personality. LOYAL to a fault, this sweet boy. I love him so much!! 💙
I don't like to write long reviews, but I really felt the need to explain just how much I enjoyed this book DESPITE my being intimidated by it. Kandi took one of my least favorite tropes and developed it into a fun, emotional, unputdownable read. This story also helped me understand what control in the bedroom really means, what relinquishing power symbolizes, and how communication is truly THE KEY.
I take my hat off to you, Kandi. You seriously blew me away with this one!! Well done!! 👏👏👏
***
"If this was all I could give her, I’d give it willingly. If this was all she’d let me have, I’d take it like a greedy thief. Whatever lesson she wanted to teach me, I was ready to learn. And if all she needed was to use me tonight, I’d crawl to her, heart bound, begging for the privilege."
“This isn’t about making you less of a man,” I said. “It’s about rewriting what manhood means for you. It’s about trusting someone enough to let them push past your boundaries with only your pleasure in mind.”
“I meant what I said that night you came to my house for the first time. You’re beautiful, Liv. But your looks?” He shook his head. “They’re the least interesting thing about you.”
"But one thing was certain. I was a better woman for having that man’s love, for letting him in when it felt impossible to do. And I’d always be thankful that, even at his most insecure, he was never too afraid to shoot his shot when it came to me."
October 30, 2025
Carter & Livia
I haven’t written a review for most of 2025 but I can’t help but to say this: I have many thoughts. None of them are good.
Carter deserved so much more than the Livia that was written. She could have had so many more layers for this sweet puppy dog of a man & she was literally just sas*hole & sex. It took to almost 80% of the book for her to be emotional at all & then suddenly she’s a marshmallow? Unbelievable. As in, I did not believe their love story at all.
I haven’t written a review for most of 2025 but I can’t help but to say this: I have many thoughts. None of them are good.
Carter deserved so much more than the Livia that was written. She could have had so many more layers for this sweet puppy dog of a man & she was literally just sas*hole & sex. It took to almost 80% of the book for her to be emotional at all & then suddenly she’s a marshmallow? Unbelievable. As in, I did not believe their love story at all.
October 30, 2025
#Review: *Stand Your Ground* - Kandi Steiner - ARC [21+]
4.9/5✨
4/5🌶️
I'm always eager for Kandi Steiner's books, especially the sports romance ones 🥰. So glad that she and Valentine Pr gave me the chance to read this sexy book in advance🫶🏼.
She exudes confidence, he completely lacks it. Livia and Carter couldn't be more different from each other but something was still connecting them. The hockey player needed someone to help him, to be more confident in himself and in the bedroom area. That's how a little deal ties the beautiful doctor, Livia, and Carter. This supposed to be something professional and no feelings were accepted, but things won't go at all as planned and something was definitely changing between them. Will Livia be able to completely ignore Carter's continuous attempts on having something more than just a platonic relationship?
Ok, so this book has totally surprised me with its story in the best way possible! It was definitely super, super hot, with many explicit scenes, but I really appreciated that it had a deeper thing to it. Because underneath all that sexiness, something fragile and emotional was hiding. Livia may have seemed like she was a strong, independent woman, but inside she was struggling a lot with the way her life was going in that moment, wanting something more, wanting to finally be able to start a family. But that was definitely impossible when she couldn't trust any men after a traumatic event from her past. Neither Carter wasn't in a great place, always having the feeling that he wasn't good enough and that affected him in both personal and professional sides. Somehow, that little deal they made has slowly changed them, making them heal their fragile hearts bit by bit. But will that be enough to built something more than what they initially had?
This may have been one of the spiciest books I've read so far, containing multiple super sexy and pretty explicit scenes, but I really liked that it focused on the characters as individuals and on their emotional struggles as well. It was really nice to discover their fragile side and to see beyond the physical connection they had. Attention! This is not recommended for readers who aren't above 21 years because of of those very explicit spicy scenes.
✨Tropes
#OppositesAttract
#MentalHealth
#TragicPast
#FriendsWithBenefits
#ExtraSpicy
#Doctor
#SportsRomance
#HockeyPlayer
4.9/5✨
4/5🌶️
I'm always eager for Kandi Steiner's books, especially the sports romance ones 🥰. So glad that she and Valentine Pr gave me the chance to read this sexy book in advance🫶🏼.
She exudes confidence, he completely lacks it. Livia and Carter couldn't be more different from each other but something was still connecting them. The hockey player needed someone to help him, to be more confident in himself and in the bedroom area. That's how a little deal ties the beautiful doctor, Livia, and Carter. This supposed to be something professional and no feelings were accepted, but things won't go at all as planned and something was definitely changing between them. Will Livia be able to completely ignore Carter's continuous attempts on having something more than just a platonic relationship?
Ok, so this book has totally surprised me with its story in the best way possible! It was definitely super, super hot, with many explicit scenes, but I really appreciated that it had a deeper thing to it. Because underneath all that sexiness, something fragile and emotional was hiding. Livia may have seemed like she was a strong, independent woman, but inside she was struggling a lot with the way her life was going in that moment, wanting something more, wanting to finally be able to start a family. But that was definitely impossible when she couldn't trust any men after a traumatic event from her past. Neither Carter wasn't in a great place, always having the feeling that he wasn't good enough and that affected him in both personal and professional sides. Somehow, that little deal they made has slowly changed them, making them heal their fragile hearts bit by bit. But will that be enough to built something more than what they initially had?
This may have been one of the spiciest books I've read so far, containing multiple super sexy and pretty explicit scenes, but I really liked that it focused on the characters as individuals and on their emotional struggles as well. It was really nice to discover their fragile side and to see beyond the physical connection they had. Attention! This is not recommended for readers who aren't above 21 years because of of those very explicit spicy scenes.
✨Tropes
#OppositesAttract
#MentalHealth
#TragicPast
#FriendsWithBenefits
#ExtraSpicy
#Doctor
#SportsRomance
#HockeyPlayer
October 12, 2025
Oh. My. GOD. Stand Your Ground by Kandi Steiner absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible. I’m not even exaggerating when I say this might be my favorite Kandi Steiner book ever. I went into it thinking I was getting the typical “virgin hero gets sex lessons from an experienced Domme” kind of story, and while, yes, that’s technically the setup… it’s also so much more than that. This book had me blushing, tearing up, and clutching my chest like some kind of emotional support blanket.
Let’s start with Carter. Sweet, soft, determined Carter. My poor boy who just wants to prove he’s not a failure. His backstory absolutely broke me. The way Kandi peeled back his layers little by little, showing his vulnerability, his longing to be seen, to be good enough, was so deeply emotional. I cried for him, not because of pity, but because of how real his pain felt. He’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for him every step of the way.
And then there’s Livia. Oh, Livia. What an absolutely phenomenal, complex character. She’s confident and in control on the outside, but inside? She’s carrying so much. Her past, like her trauma, her reasons for becoming who she is, felt so personal. I related to her in ways I didn’t expect to. That feeling of wanting to be in control because you’ve been hurt before? Of building an identity around strength because vulnerability once cost you too much? Yeah… I felt that. Kandi wrote her with such empathy and respect that it was impossible not to love her.
The dynamic between Carter and Livia? It really was written so perfectly. What starts as a cold, carefully outlined contract quickly becomes something raw, tender, and transformative. They balance each other so beautifully; she teaches him confidence and self-trust, and he reminds her that vulnerability doesn’t mean weakness. Watching their connection evolve from lessons and boundaries into genuine care and love felt organic and earned. I felt every shift, every unspoken moment, every look that lingers a second too long.
And can we talk about how hot this book is?! Like, holy hell, Kandi did not hold back. But what I loved most is that the spice always served the story; it wasn’t just there for shock value. It was about trust, growth, and self-discovery. Carter’s exploration of kink and pleasure was so refreshing because it challenged the idea of what “dominance” means (and honestly, what being a man means), and Kandi handled it with so much nuance. I loved that he was curious, open, and respectful and it made every scene between them that much more powerful.
Stand Your Ground isn’t just a D/s romance. Kandi Steiner absolutely outdid herself with this one. It is emotional, bold, beautifully written, and deeply human. This book is going to live rent free in my head (and heart) for a long, long time.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Kandi Steiner for the eARC of this book.
Let’s start with Carter. Sweet, soft, determined Carter. My poor boy who just wants to prove he’s not a failure. His backstory absolutely broke me. The way Kandi peeled back his layers little by little, showing his vulnerability, his longing to be seen, to be good enough, was so deeply emotional. I cried for him, not because of pity, but because of how real his pain felt. He’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but root for him every step of the way.
And then there’s Livia. Oh, Livia. What an absolutely phenomenal, complex character. She’s confident and in control on the outside, but inside? She’s carrying so much. Her past, like her trauma, her reasons for becoming who she is, felt so personal. I related to her in ways I didn’t expect to. That feeling of wanting to be in control because you’ve been hurt before? Of building an identity around strength because vulnerability once cost you too much? Yeah… I felt that. Kandi wrote her with such empathy and respect that it was impossible not to love her.
The dynamic between Carter and Livia? It really was written so perfectly. What starts as a cold, carefully outlined contract quickly becomes something raw, tender, and transformative. They balance each other so beautifully; she teaches him confidence and self-trust, and he reminds her that vulnerability doesn’t mean weakness. Watching their connection evolve from lessons and boundaries into genuine care and love felt organic and earned. I felt every shift, every unspoken moment, every look that lingers a second too long.
And can we talk about how hot this book is?! Like, holy hell, Kandi did not hold back. But what I loved most is that the spice always served the story; it wasn’t just there for shock value. It was about trust, growth, and self-discovery. Carter’s exploration of kink and pleasure was so refreshing because it challenged the idea of what “dominance” means (and honestly, what being a man means), and Kandi handled it with so much nuance. I loved that he was curious, open, and respectful and it made every scene between them that much more powerful.
Stand Your Ground isn’t just a D/s romance. Kandi Steiner absolutely outdid herself with this one. It is emotional, bold, beautifully written, and deeply human. This book is going to live rent free in my head (and heart) for a long, long time.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Kandi Steiner for the eARC of this book.
October 19, 2025
**ARC Review**
Stand Your Ground (Kings of the Ice #5) by Kandi Steiner
Release date: 10/24/25 - Free on KU!
HOLY HOTNESS!!! 🥵🔥
Kandi, what have you done to me!?
Livia & Carter: *existing*
Me: BARK BARK 🐕
After years of being brought up to the NHL and sent back down to a farm team, Carter Fabri finally has a contracted position on the Tampa Bay hockey team. He's determined to prove himself both on and off the ice. The first step? Building up his shredded confidence.
Dr. Livia Young is the team's dentist. She's older, successful, confident, and *experienced*. Carter has had a crush on her since they first met, and lives to pester her with cheesy pickup lines in the hope of getting her attention. Who better to help him with his problem than his confident, wildly sexy friend? Carter propositions Livia: teach him what to do in the bedroom and build his confidence in exchange for 2 million dollars! Surprisingly, Livia agrees-- She has her own reasons for needing the money, and she has a soft spot for the innocent puppy that is Carter Fabri.
Livia's only caveat is that she must be completely in control in all situations. There's a good reason she is a Domme, and she will not hand over the reins to any man. This suits Carter just fine, as he needs to be told what to do anyway! So, the two embark on their secret sexy mission together that ends up bringing them closer than expected. They each have secrets from their pasts that have shaped them, and as they grow closer, the trust that is built within the walls of their agreement bleeds into the real world, and they begin to trust each other with their truths and emotions.
There is so much heart in this story to match all the heat! It's about so much more than sex lessons for a virgin hockey star. It explores building confidence, sexuality, power exchange, trust, and the freedom of giving up control. It's two damaged souls learning to trust again, coming together in what just might be a perfect match.
This series just keeps getting better!
5⭐ 4.25-4.5🌶️
I was given an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Author Kandi Steiner and Valentine Pr for the ARC!
Stand Your Ground (Kings of the Ice #5) by Kandi Steiner
Release date: 10/24/25 - Free on KU!
HOLY HOTNESS!!! 🥵🔥
Kandi, what have you done to me!?
Livia & Carter: *existing*
Me: BARK BARK 🐕
After years of being brought up to the NHL and sent back down to a farm team, Carter Fabri finally has a contracted position on the Tampa Bay hockey team. He's determined to prove himself both on and off the ice. The first step? Building up his shredded confidence.
Dr. Livia Young is the team's dentist. She's older, successful, confident, and *experienced*. Carter has had a crush on her since they first met, and lives to pester her with cheesy pickup lines in the hope of getting her attention. Who better to help him with his problem than his confident, wildly sexy friend? Carter propositions Livia: teach him what to do in the bedroom and build his confidence in exchange for 2 million dollars! Surprisingly, Livia agrees-- She has her own reasons for needing the money, and she has a soft spot for the innocent puppy that is Carter Fabri.
Livia's only caveat is that she must be completely in control in all situations. There's a good reason she is a Domme, and she will not hand over the reins to any man. This suits Carter just fine, as he needs to be told what to do anyway! So, the two embark on their secret sexy mission together that ends up bringing them closer than expected. They each have secrets from their pasts that have shaped them, and as they grow closer, the trust that is built within the walls of their agreement bleeds into the real world, and they begin to trust each other with their truths and emotions.
There is so much heart in this story to match all the heat! It's about so much more than sex lessons for a virgin hockey star. It explores building confidence, sexuality, power exchange, trust, and the freedom of giving up control. It's two damaged souls learning to trust again, coming together in what just might be a perfect match.
This series just keeps getting better!
5⭐ 4.25-4.5🌶️
I was given an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Author Kandi Steiner and Valentine Pr for the ARC!
October 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book #5 in the interconnected standalone series "Kings of the Ice"
🗣️ Dual POV
🔫 Check Trigger Warnings
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x Team Dentist
🖤 M/F
Ok, so the ice rink in the room [hockey pun intended 😊] is that I didnt care for this book...That does not mean that this book wasnt well written and have a good story, it just was not for me. The FMC to ME was not likable, she was selfish and materialistic and her trauma really doesnt fit with that particular character trait. I might be in the minority with my feelings but thats ok cause its my review 😉
Livia gets more tolerable as the story goes on, simply because Carter is such a golden retriever for her, that you just keep reading to see what obsessed thing he's going to do next to show her he's the one for her. Does Livia have trauma that she has to overcome? absolutely, and she does with the help of Carter...I just wasnt feeling it.
I also dont normally mention chapter headers, but these were blinding, bright yellow on a white background which is definitely not compliant...again not something I normally mention but I feel like me retinas have been burned by them.
I've listed the tropes below, so if they are your thing maybe give this a chance and then come back to this review and lets discuss your POV!
Tropes
🏒 Grumpy FMC x Sunshine MC
🦷 Opposites Attract
🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🦷 Virgin Hero
🏒 He's Obsessed/ He Falls First
🏒 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🦷 She Gives Him Spicy Lessons
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book #5 in the interconnected standalone series "Kings of the Ice"
🗣️ Dual POV
🔫 Check Trigger Warnings
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x Team Dentist
🖤 M/F
Ok, so the ice rink in the room [hockey pun intended 😊] is that I didnt care for this book...That does not mean that this book wasnt well written and have a good story, it just was not for me. The FMC to ME was not likable, she was selfish and materialistic and her trauma really doesnt fit with that particular character trait. I might be in the minority with my feelings but thats ok cause its my review 😉
Livia gets more tolerable as the story goes on, simply because Carter is such a golden retriever for her, that you just keep reading to see what obsessed thing he's going to do next to show her he's the one for her. Does Livia have trauma that she has to overcome? absolutely, and she does with the help of Carter...I just wasnt feeling it.
I also dont normally mention chapter headers, but these were blinding, bright yellow on a white background which is definitely not compliant...again not something I normally mention but I feel like me retinas have been burned by them.
I've listed the tropes below, so if they are your thing maybe give this a chance and then come back to this review and lets discuss your POV!
Tropes
🏒 Grumpy FMC x Sunshine MC
🦷 Opposites Attract
🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🦷 Virgin Hero
🏒 He's Obsessed/ He Falls First
🏒 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🦷 She Gives Him Spicy Lessons
November 3, 2025
This much heat and chemistry should have melted the damn ice in this hockey romance!
While this was my first dive into the series, so I missed some of the banter and inside jokes, the story, the contract and the heat came right off the pages!!
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the chance to read this one!
While this was my first dive into the series, so I missed some of the banter and inside jokes, the story, the contract and the heat came right off the pages!!
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the chance to read this one!
November 21, 2025
A cute lil romance! Not necessarily my favorite tropes, but I thought the author wrote them really well. And it’s always fun to see these characters.
Note for Kandi Steiner and Kandi Steiner only: change the kindle covers. Girl I’m begging.
Note for Kandi Steiner and Kandi Steiner only: change the kindle covers. Girl I’m begging.
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