The Shots Against Us

Golden City #2

by Cassandra Moll

Drew Anderson is a superstar. An icon. The face of the Golden City Flames.
Or at least that’s who the world thinks he is.
But after failing a drug test last season in a desperate attempt to live up to his image, Drew realized he didn’t want to be that guy anymore. The problem is, he's not sure who he is without the noise. And the only person who’s ever truly seen him is the mystery girl he spent one unforgettable night with last year. The one who wouldn’t even tell him her name.

Brooke Larkin is bold, independent, and completely uninterested in settling down—no matter what her mother says.
But when her closest friends start building lives without her, Brooke starts to cave, questioning where she fits in. The first step she makes toward putting down roots is finding a job she can finally turn into a career. Filling in as the social media manager for the Flames seems like the perfect opportunity... until she comes face-to-face with the team’s star player. The sexy, irresistible, and much younger guy she never expected to interact with again.

He hasn’t forgotten her.
And worse—he’s not letting her forget him, either.
But the more Drew breaks through Brooke's defenses, the more he calls her out for putting on a facade of her own.

Can two people so used to hiding find something real together?
Or will the masks they wear keep them from the only person who sees who they truly are?

Genres: Hockey, Romance

381 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2025

Reviews

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for this. I resonate with Brooke in the fact we both use humor to deflect from our emotions and it was depicted so well in this book. I absolutely love the maturity in Drew and the reverse age gap. 6 years is nothing, and usually overlooked when it's an older male, but to see them both grow, and to see that it's not a matter of age, but where you are mentally in life... I adored this story and can't wait to dive deeper into Golden City. Thank you so much, Cassandra, for putting me on this ARC team!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love a Cassandra Moll book and this one was as amazing as I expected! Drew and Brooke are the best perfectly imperfect couple. Their story did not disappoint and I hope there are more books in this series because the side characters may be some of my favorites!
5 🌟’s and a good amount of 🌶️
Grab it when it comes out on 11/11 ❤️

[Nat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy release day, The Shots Against Us!!
I was so lucky to receive this ARC and it did not disappoint!! I flew through this - Drew and Brooke are everything! Their chemistry was perfect and for me Brooke was probably one of the most relatable FMC in a hockey romance that I’ve read so far!
I really hope there are multiple books in this series because as a lover of hockey romance, they go by way too fast and i loved these and keep wanting more!!

[Katie Thayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨
The Shots Against Us
By: Cassandra Moll

Maybe it's the idea that I'm currently hiding away from a twenty-five-year-old. Or maybe it's my mom's voice that seems to live inside my head, reminding me my clock is ticking. But right now, I feel every bit of thirty-one.

This girl, who doesn't seem scared of anything, is terrified of what she feels for me.

He's everything past-Brooke wanted—sexy, badass, amazing in bed. But he's also everything future-Brooke needs—thoughtful, reflective, self-aware. And I don't think I've ever had a man see me like he has before.


Brooke is 30, Flirty, and not so thriving. That is until she lets down her guard and lets pro hockey player Drew Anderson in. After their one night together, a year later, a chance encounter brings Brooke and Drew back together. Brooke tries to push Drew away, but he challenges her and doesn’t give up. Because of that Brooke learns to let love in and be vulnerable with her heart. Drew has his own demons to fight, but with Brooke by his side he realizes he’s not alone in the fight.
Their story is a sweet story that hits on some big emotions and issues. But it is present so perfectly!

Tropes:
Pro hockey player
Team, social media manager
One night
Reverse age gap
He falls first
Slow burn after the burn
Workplace romance

Spice starts at: 4%🔥

Spice: 2/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️

Available on Kindle Unlimited November 11, 2025

[Bianca Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! I finished reading book one and immediately needed book 2. These characters and storyline are EVERYTHING. I believe that Brooke was "sent" to Drew to help him & he help her in ways they didn't know was possible. They were so cute together and just down to earth. The Playlist was EVERYTHING. The funny banter and sarcasm Brooke had was *chefs kiss*. I highly recommend.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🏒Pro hockey player
📸Team social media manager
🛏️One night stand
⏳Reverse age gap
🧡He falls first
🔥Slow burn after the burn
🏠Found family
🌶️ Open door spice

I had extremely high expectations for this book, and it just blew them out of the water! I can’t even begin to explain to you how much I LOVED this book. I found both Drew and Brooke to be incredibly relatable; their characters were well-developed, and I loved who they were individually, which made their relationship arc so much more emotionally satisfying for me as a reader. The story is exceptionally well-written, with real depth of emotion, and is paced in a way that kept me engaged and thoroughly enjoying the burn through the entirety of the book.

Now, I am not usually an annotator, but I underlined more lines in the first read-through of this book than in any other book I have ever read. There were so many lines in this book that I felt deep in my soul, and I just couldn't not stop and appreciate them.

Also, and I cannot say this enough, DREW IS MY NEW FAVORITE.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very intrigued by Drew as a character in The Boards Between Us (the first book in the series) when he was introduced as the team’s star athlete who also just failed a drug test. I wanted to know what brought him to that point and to see his redemption ark. His story did not disappoint!

At its core, this is a sports romance and it did not lack the tropes and fluff you expect with a sports romance but it also has some emotional depth, which I appreciated. Between the clandestine hookups, the fmc dealing with feeling left behind in life, motorcycle rides, and the mmc finding himself this novel finds the perfect balance.

[Amy Nero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #2 in the Golden City Series

5 ⭐️ ARC

Pro Hockey Star
Social Media manager
Reverse age gap
He falls first
Slow burn after the burn

I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! I knew I would after reading book 1.

Brooke and Drew are perfect together. This ice hockey romance is definitely one for you to read!

Brooke and Drew’s story is perfect! Their relationship is easy and fun. Brooke and Drew help heal each other after life has thrown them some curve balls.

I highly recommend reading this!! Release date 11/11 🧡

[IvetteA_13 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drew & Brooke (Mystery Girl)

I truly enjoyed this book so much more. Loved the vulnerability that Drew and Brooke eventually shared and the way she overcame her cougar insecurities.
Great story and liked that it was true to the hockey genre. Can’t wait to see which other hockey player gets a story.

⭐️/4
🌶️/3
🥅 🏒 📸 🏍️💘

[Nikaury · Rating 4 out of 5]

This storyline was absolutely adorable. Drew Anderson, a superstar for the Golden City Flames, might have fame and talent, but deep down, he’s lonely. That changes when he meets Brooke, a.k.a. Mystery Girl. After one unforgettable night, he’s completely hooked.

Brooke is a little older, guarded, and insecure about their age gap, with complicated mom issues and a quiet wish to just be left alone, though deep down, she wants him too. Their connection felt raw and real.

It’s the perfect mix of spice,drama, and heartwarming love, the kind of story that makes you root for healing as much as romance.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review*
This was my first read for Cassandra Moll. It will not be my last!!!! I loved reading Brooke and Drew’s story! 🥰 This was a fun, slow burn hockey romance (my favorite!) I can’t wait to go and read more from Cassandra!

[Jo Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE SHOTS AGAINST US by CASSANDRA MOLL ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Shots Against Us is the second (#2) book in the GOLDEN CITY series

Brooke Larkin is too busy living her life to the full to ever settle down. No permanent job, no long term relationship, living day to day. You only get one life and she’s living it, despite her mother’s disappointment in her. But when her best friend settles down and it seems like everyone around her is starting their forever lives, and with her body clock ticking, she starts to question her future.

To the outside world Drew Anderson has it all, larger than life superstar hockey player with a celebrity lifestyle. What the world doesn’t realise is that it’s all for show. Drew is struggling to live up to the playboy image those around him are building for him as a showman with a different woman on his arm every night. It’s everything that deep down he hates but he doesn’t really know what he wants or how to get there. Then one night he hooks up with a mystery woman at a party, the first person who might ever understand the ‘real’ him only for them to part at the end of the night.

When Brooke is asked to stand in as the Golden City Fames social media manager she comes face to face with the much younger man from the party 10 months ago that she never expected to meet again. The chemistry is obviously still there and Drew is determined to break through her reluctance, but with them both fighting their own eternal battles can they find a future together…..


——

This was my first book by Cassandra Moll and it was a very pleasant read, in fact I enjoyed it so much I ordered the first book in the series!

The cover may lead you to think that this is a fluffy read, and there is plenty of light hearted, amusing banter in there but it is also quite deep. The two MC’s are both struggling with their own existential feelings.
Drew is fed up of living a ‘fake’ life in order to keep everyone around him and the fans happy but doesn’t know how to be himself without blowing his career up.
Brooke is starting to hear her body clock tick and is starting to think she needs to think about settling down. After years of her mum’s constant criticism of Brooke’s life choices I think there was a part of her that felt an instinctual need to rebel against everything her mum wanted for her, even if she wanted it for herself.
I really liked Drew’s refusal to let Brooke’s doubts drown out their relationship - his dedication and commitment to them giving the relationship a go and I loved how Brooke didn’t push her ideas on Drew but quietly supported his own decisions, encouraging him to let the real him out. Brooke’s obsession with the age gap annoyed me a bit, I think she made it to be far too much of an issue. Maybe that’s because I myself was in a 6 year reverse age gap relationship where the age difference was literally not even an issue 🤷🏻‍♀️.
The scene in the graveyard where Brooke meets Drew’s mum for the first time literally brought me to tears, it was so poignant.

At around 380 pages long and with a colourful, attractive cover and excellent editing I recommend this book.

Thank you to Cassandra Moll for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.

🏒 Slow Burn romance
🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🏒 Workplace Romance
🏒 He Falls First
🏒 Contemporary Romance
🏒 Sports Romance

[Cait's Reading Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shots Against Us is the second book in the Golden City series. Brooke is a social media manager for the Flames and Drew plays on the team. They first meet after a one night stand. They meet again while together, and for Drew, since that night, Brooke has always been on his mind.

Brooke is hesitant to have a relationship; they have an age gap, and she is focused on her new role on the team. Drew is resolute in showing Brooke who he really is: a committed and supportive partner.

They both have experiences that have contributed to their independence, and the facade they show externally to others. As one of the key themes of this story, I liked how the novel shows how Drew and Brooke felt they were safe with one another to open up about their emotions and experiences.

Putting up walls and being overly guarded can hold us back, even though it can feel comfortable to hide our feelings. Both Drew and Brooke are very independent, and this novel does a great job of pacing how they open up to one another. They know they have feelings for one another, but they take the time to build their relationship. Drew is very patient and considerate for Brooke in this journey as well.

I like how this book features a poignant discussion about the age gap between Drew and Brooke. Brooke is 31, and Drew is 25. It’s something I don’t see in a lot of stories where the age gap as a thorough discussion. Even though the age gap is one of the reasons Brooke is hesitant to be in a relationship with Drew, he shows maturity and his intention. He is consistent in showing up and being there. It’s something that Brooke has not had from previous relationships, and Drew takes great care to show that he will be the one that always shows up.

I like the impactful role of music in the story. Music helps us to process emotion, express ourselves, and share what we’re feeling. Cliche has been on my playlist on repeat! It connects to the story so well!

Making a mixtape can be a really romantic gesture. Sharing how a piece of music reminds us of someone, some where, or a particular moment can be really powerful. The thought and time that goes into a playlist speaks volumes.

I liked how this book balances the heartfelt moments of music with comedic moments.

This story honestly shows both Drew and Brooke’s fears, hopes, and vulnerability. They have great banter, sarcasm, and wit. Their chemistry is natural.

The team is a found family for both protagonists. Brooke is looking for a new start in her career, and Drew is trying to rebuild his career and image. They find each other, but also find a place to call home.

Thank you, Cassandra, for the opportunity to read and review your book!

I was provided a copy of this book for free and am leaving an honest review.

[Danielle Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something about second-chance stories that either hits or misses. This one? It hits — and hard. The Shots Against Us by Cassandra Moll is the kind of book that pulls you in with banter and burns you alive with its heart. It’s equal parts raw and redemptive, a story about two people trying to find steady ground in a world that’s built on ice and bad habits.

Brooke Larkin is sharp, stubborn, and refreshingly human — the kind of heroine who isn’t afraid to call herself out even as she keeps fumbling through the mess of adulthood. Her voice hooked me from the first page with its honesty and humor. She’s done pretending to have it together, and she owns that chaos beautifully.

Then there’s Drew Anderson — the hot-shot hockey star with a reputation, a past, and a soul that’s more bruised than he’ll ever admit. When these two cross paths again after their one unforgettable night together, it’s the kind of moment that makes you want to close the book for a second just to breathe. The tension crackles between them — not just sexual tension, but emotional recognition. You feel it when Drew sees her again. It’s not just lust; it’s that stunned, heart-in-your-throat realization of “oh God, it’s her.”

That scene around pages 66–70 is written with cinematic precision — every look, every hesitation, every unsaid word charged with meaning. You can see the push-pull in every heartbeat. It’s not flashy, it’s real. And the way Cassandra Moll layers their emotions — the guilt, the curiosity, the undeniable pull — makes it impossible not to root for them.

Beyond the romance, what I love about this book is its emotional honesty. Moll doesn’t just give us a love story; she gives us two people who are trying. Trying to heal, to grow, to forgive themselves for the ways they’ve stumbled. The themes of redemption, self-worth, and second chances run deep, but they’re never heavy-handed. Instead, they rise naturally through the characters’ humor, vulnerability, and sparks of connection.

Moll’s prose has this addictive rhythm — sharp wit balanced by gut-punch emotion. She writes dialogue that feels lived-in, and scenes that play like memories rather than fiction. You get the grit of real life and the ache of something bigger, all wrapped up in a romance that makes you believe love can exist alongside the wreckage.

By the end, Brooke and Drew aren’t perfect — they’re honest. And maybe that’s the real victory here. The Shots Against Us reminds you that even when life doesn’t go by the playbook, even when you’ve taken a few bad hits, you can still find someone willing to lace up beside you and keep skating forward.

[Giana Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drew Anderson, captain of the Golden City Flames, had a one night stand with a stranger who turned out to be a not so stranger after all. Drew finds that his coach’s wife’s bff is the new social media manager, Brooke, who happens to be the one night stand he hasn’t been able to get out of his head. The one that he hooked up with and she never gave her name…his mystery girl.

Brooke is a strong, free spirit woman who despite what everyone else wants, doesn’t want to settle down. That is until she finds that everyone else around her is moving on to bigger and better things and she’s serving at a restaurant and flying free. She makes the decision that from this day forward, she’s going to try and put down some roots and change from her easy going, free spirit self. She just didn’t expect that the temporary job of doing social media for the Golden City Flames would force her to be around Drew Anderson all the time.

He wants to be with her sooooo bad but she is not having it. She wants more for herself and to settle down and he’s just a 25 year old hockey star that is the bad boy on the ice and in the press. We see this man groveling. The chase X100000. He wants her so bad and she’s trying so hard not to give in.

🏒Hockey
🏒Workplace romance
🏒Reverse age gap
🏒One night stand to slow burn
🏒He falls first
🏒Spicy

—

I love diving a little bit deeper into the meaning behind the stories I read—going beyond the surface to uncover what’s really being said. Brooke and Drew’s story definitely is more than meets the eye. On the surface, it’s a romance, but underneath, it’s about finding yourself and learning to be who you want to be and not what the world or anyone else wants you to be.

Brooke hides behind humor when pressured by her mom about settling down and Drew puts up this facade that the media and fans want him to be. Both of which are exhausting. The two of them find themselves relating to each other more than they thought.

—

This book is extremely well written. I didn't want to put it down and found myself reading into the night when I should have been sleeping. I thought Levi was my favorite but after reading The Shots Against Us, Drew takes the cake!

The only thing I found myself wanting was more teammate interaction on the hockey side of things. We got some of it at the end of the book but I found myself wanting more.

Thank you Cassandra for allowing me the opportunity to read the book early and share my thoughts. I also loved the addition of the playlist at the end!

[Kristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! The moment I finished book one, I dove straight into this one because I needed more of the Golden City crew. These characters, this story, this connection, they are everything.

Brooke and Drew completely stole my heart. I truly believe Brooke was sent into Drew’s life for a reason, she helps him heal in ways neither of them expected, and he does the same for her. Their chemistry is undeniable, their banter is perfection, and the playlist? Chef’s kiss. This story is spicy, funny, and surprisingly emotional, it hits every note perfectly.

Cassandra Moll scores big with this heartfelt reverse age-gap hockey romance that blends tension, charm, and depth in all the right ways. Brooke is fiercely independent, living life on her own terms, but when everyone around her starts settling down, she begins to question her path. Enter Drew, a younger, larger-than-life hockey star who’s tired of pretending to be the playboy everyone expects. Their chance reunion after a one-night encounter turns into a beautifully messy, slow-burn romance filled with sarcasm, self-discovery, and swoon-worthy moments.

What I loved most is how real both characters felt. Brooke’s insecurities about age and her fear of settling for less than she deserves were relatable, while Drew’s quiet vulnerability and determination to show Brooke that love doesn’t care about perception melted me completely. The scene where Brooke meets Drew’s mom in the graveyard? Tears. Absolute tears.

The supporting cast adds so much depth and humor, the Flames team dynamic is fantastic, and Brooke’s friendship with Alex (and McHottie from book one!) brings warmth and continuity. My personal MVP? Alexei Petrov, I’m begging for his book after Daddy Levi!!

And yes, let’s talk spice… 🔥 Cassandra delivers. The chemistry leaps off the page, and the penalty box will never look the same again.

From the humor to the heartbreak to the electric attraction, this book is a perfect blend of heart and heat. It’s the ideal fall read to kick off hockey season and a beautiful reminder that sometimes, love shows up when you least expect it, and in the form of someone younger who sees you for exactly who you are.

Cassandra Moll continues to outdo herself with each book in the Golden City series, and I already can’t wait for book three. If you love hockey romances with emotional depth, incredible banter, and a hero who falls hard, The Shots Against Us is a must-read.

[Lara De · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved this book. It just took me a while to get into, but honestly that was because of me, not the story. Ebooks have been harder for me to focus on lately, and being a mom means I get interrupted every two minutes, so my brain just wasn’t settling the way I wanted it to.

Once I finally got into it, though, Brook and Drew completely pulled me in. I loved how her view of him changes in such a real way. At first she sees him like everyone else does — the media version of him, the opinions, the gossip — and then she actually gets to know him, and everything shifts. It felt natural, not like the book was trying too hard to make me like him.

The only thing that felt a bit off for me (personally) was both parents having their realizations at the exact same time. It still made sense for the story, it just felt a little too synchronized for my taste. But it honestly didn’t ruin anything or take away from how much I enjoyed it.

Brook and Drew’s connection felt real and not overdone. Drew shows up for her in a way that isn’t pushy or clingy — just steady, patient, and sweet — and I loved that. The age gap feels like a huge deal in the beginning, but by the end, it’s clear that maturity is not about numbers, and they both grow in ways that have nothing to do with age.

And Aunt Iris. I don’t even know how to explain how much I loved her. I don’t usually highlight anything in ebooks, but I highlighted her, multiple times. My favorite line of hers was:

“If I’ve learned anything from all the places I’ve been and people I’ve met, it’s that there’s no answer to this life. It’s not one size fits all. Not knowing exactly where you’ll end up isn’t wrong, Brookie. It’s the journey.”

That one really stuck with me.

I know I’m late with this review, and I want to apologize for that, because this story deserved attention earlier. I just needed some extra time, between my weird ebook slump and life happening around me. But I’m honestly so grateful I got to read it.

And yes, I cannot wait for Liam’s book. I mean it. I already know I’m jumping on it the second it’s out. I’m also going back and grabbing the first book in the series because clearly I need to catch up after how much I enjoyed this one.

A solid, heartfelt 4-star read, and I’m still thinking about Brook and Drew.

[Sefora Darling · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shots Against Us by Cassandra Moll

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Two characters meet unexpectedly… unaware that they are each other’s healing. 💖 That’s THE SHOTS AGAINST US in a nutshell.

I loved the depth of these characters and the growth they experienced throughout the story. Each layer was slowly peeled away to allow for the healing of the other, and it was beautifully unfolded. Watching the cuteness, the rawness, and the emotional journey was such a joy.

I HIGHLY recommend this book! 🙌 It will be released on 11/11/25, so preorder quickly to get your copy.



Commentary
• Brooke is HILARIOUS from the very start! 😂 Cassandra’s characters have this amazing ability to make you laugh from beginning to end, no matter the circumstances. Her humor is effortless and one of the reasons I keep coming back for more.
• I also love that this series can be read as standalones. Meeting familiar characters from previous books in a new story fills my heart with joy 🤭
• Cassandra is a master at slowing down time through her details and character reactions—it makes each moment feel real and memorable.
• “Mystery Girl” and “Twelve”—oh, the tension in this book! The pull between them is insane 🤪


Favorite Quotes
• “The journey is the destination.” 👍 Yes, auntie Ivy!
• “It’s so easy for one life decision to ruin a good thing. So easy.”
• “Poems don’t have to make sense to mean what you want them to.”
• “I’ve never been one to believe that a paycheck should come bundled with misery.” SAME!
• “Order, Brooke.” cue in FERAL SCREAM 😱
• “Do you ever harmonize? Maybe drop some bars?” 🤣🙌
• “I genuinely think there’s good in all music.” True for movies, books, everything—you just have to find it.
• “…there’s no answer to this life. It’s not one size fits all. Not knowing exactly where you’ll end up isn’t wrong, Brookie. It’s the journey.”
• “…readiness doesn’t come with age—it comes with intention.” 😭



✅ Final Thoughts:
If you love humor, heart, slow-burning emotional growth, and characters that feel alive, this book is a must-read. Cassandra Moll continues to deliver stories that stay with you long after the last page.

[Jerrika Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It was such a pleasant surprise, especially when it came to Drew. He wasn’t at all what I expected—and that’s what made him so great. From the start, Drew knew exactly what he wanted and wasn’t interested in playing games. There were so many layers to him, and it completely flipped the usual “party playboy turned good by love” trope on its head. While he might’ve played that role in the past, it wasn’t who he truly was anymore, and you could feel how tired he was of pretending. Meeting **Brooke** was like being seen for the first time—she recognized the real him—and watching that connection grow was beautiful.

I love how effortlessly Cassandra brings her stories to life. The writing just flows, and this book is packed with unforgettable scenes. The scene where Brooke walks into the gala for the first time and Drew spots her from across the room was such a fun moment. I loved seeing how they each perceived the other in that instant—it was electric. And what happens in the bathroom after that introduction? Let’s just say it was very easy to picture! And that barbershop scene? Absolute perfection. Brooke knew exactly how to push Drew’s buttons and heat him up, and the chemistry between them was off the charts. It was so intense and vivid—you could practically see it play out like a movie.

I adored Brooke, too. She’s such a strong, badass woman who’s also tired of being boxed into a version of herself she’s ready to outgrow. I loved seeing her reclaim who she is. The family dynamics added so much depth—her brother and sister-in-law’s unwavering support was heartwarming, and her mom’s 180 by the end was exactly what Brooke (and we as readers) needed. Brooke’s strength, loyalty, and growth made her such a standout character, and together, she and Drew were pure magic.

This story is full of personal growth and redemption, showing the importance of trusting yourself and having the courage to lean on the people wise enough to surround yourself with. I can't wait for more in this series!

[Sunny D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassandra never disappoints. I read this one because I DEVOURED the first book and could not put it down. The same happened for this one. First I want to say, I love Drew Anderson. He’s my sweet love. I swear from the moment we meet him, he’s just this joy. I think its because he’s very relatable, and he’s more than what other portray him to be.

In the beginning, Brooke got on my nerves (still love her) but she was very quick to judge Drew without even knowing him and SHE was the one who put up the walls. Lol this made the story so fun and the slow burn worth it because I knew once he got through to her, it was done for. Drew was working his butt off to get her to see that they were meant to be. I loved that he knew what he wanted from day one.

I think this story mimics a lot of things we as humans think about everyday. The idea that we often live up to what others want and think we should be rather than creating our own path. We see this a lot with Drew and Brooke as both of them struggle with being their authentic selves. I loved how this was such an important lesson in the story because it made me really connect with the characters and think about my own life. I think Brooke and Drew really needed each other and thats what made this story so inspiring because it was about two people who were destined to help each other find their path.

Not going to lie, I actually cried a couple of times reading this book. There was some emotional moments that really took us there.

Cassandra’s writing is beautiful, and easy. I love the internal thoughts of the characters and seeing how they really feel. Mainly Drew every time he sees or interacts with Brooke. I also felt like the entire story as a whole was done so well, and that it felt like we were really in the story. I can’t wait for the next book!

Also…Love Coach McHottie

[Principesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Cassandra Moll’s sizzling follow-up to The Boards Between Us delivers everything you could want in a hockey romance—and then some.

This time, we follow Brooke Larkin, a fiercely independent 31-year-old, and Drew Anderson, the charismatic captain of the Golden City Flames, the local NHL team. After an unforgettable one-night stand in a public bathroom, Brooke slips away without giving Drew her name—leaving him haunted by the memory of the “mystery girl” he can’t stop thinking about. Ten months later, fate throws them back together when Brooke unexpectedly joins the Flames organization, and Drew finally comes face-to-face with the woman who’s been living rent-free in his mind.

What unfolds is a story packed with heart, humor, and heat. Both Brooke and Drew are navigating their own personal crossroads, and watching them grow independently, while also learning to trust each other is pure magic. Their banter is sharp, their chemistry electric, and their emotional depth will have you flipping pages like your life depends on it.

The supporting cast shines too—Brooke’s dynamic with her best friend, Alex and her fiancé from the first book, McHottie, adds layers of warmth and wit, while Drew’s bond with his teammates brings a grounded authenticity to the sports side of the story. My personal vote for MVP: Alexei Petrov! I hope he gets his own book!

And ok, let’s talk spice. Moll does not hold back. The steam is top-tier, and let’s just say… you’ll never look at a penalty box the same way again.

If you haven’t read book one (The Boards Between Us), do yourself a favor and start there—but this sequel stands strong on its own. Funny, heartfelt, and deliciously steamy, this is a romance you’ll want to reread the moment you finish.

[TinyVenusAfterDark · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Mask Slips, the Heart Shows

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Tear Drops: 💧💧

📚EBOOK📚

I received an 🌟ARC🌟 of The Shots Against Us—thank you to the author for the chance to read and review it early. This is my first book by Cassandra Moll, and I genuinely enjoyed it.

Brooke’s at that crossroad where “maybe I should start settling down” is whispering a little louder—especially with her mom’s constant critiques in the background. There’s a rebellious streak in her that pushes back against expectations, and maybe that’s part of why she’s resisted the white-picket-fence path for so long. I felt that. I also really liked the reverse age gap—close to my own situation—so the tension about being at different life stages landed for me. The brain can struggle to trust when timelines don’t quite match, and the book doesn’t shy away from that.

Drew, the superstar face of the Golden City Flames, is trying to figure out who he is after the noise—and after a bad choice that forced a reckoning. The only person who ever truly saw him? The mystery woman from one unforgettable night. Of course, fate puts Brooke right back in his orbit when she steps in as the team’s social media manager. He remembers. He pursues. And he calls out the armor she wears just as he learns to shed his own.

This is a he-falls-first, second-chance-adjacent, one-night-turns-into-something-real story with a satisfying mix of spice and heart. A few moments made my eyes sting (in a good way), and I’m definitely curious to read more in this series.

Tropes/Notes:
🏒 Pro hockey player • 🧡 Team social media manager • 💥 One night stand → something real • 🔄 Reverse age gap • 💘 He falls first

[Kara Bowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

GAH, this book was SO good!

After reading book one I was chomping at the bit for book two and this did not disappoint!

Brooke is the black sheep in her family and has always done her own thing her own way. Now in her 30’s she has decided to settle down and figure out her life - what she didn’t plan on was star NHL player Drew Anderson and the connection they had. I loved her character and the way she deflected with humor was so relatable. I thoroughly enjoyed her journey of discovery and her growth throughout the book was admirable. When she finally opened up I was crying happy tears for her.

Drew Anderson, the star of the Golden City Flames is a hunk who hides his true self behind a cocky, show-boaty, play boy persona. After his poor decisions and failing a drug test, he is trying to keep up with the immense pressure to be the best hockey player he can be. From his dad pushing him to his PR manager pushing him into the spotlight, Drew is over the fake image he’s giving off. Brooke helps him show the world who he really is while giving him a safe space to be himself while he also offered the same to her.

Their connection was electric from their first night together. I loved their easy banter and friendship, which led to a stronger relationship in the end. Watching their walls fall around each other was so sweet and every time they opened up and revealed more of themselves I swooned a little harder. And don’t even get me started on the spice 🥵 SO GOOD. I couldn’t get enough of them.

I am so excited to see where this series goes next - I know I will devour the rest of the series just as I have the first two books.

Thank you Cassandra for the ARC! 🧡

[Kristin Mewhinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

✨ What it’s about:
Brooke, a restless waitress trying to rebuild her life, never expected her one-night mystery man to turn out to be Drew Anderson — a pro hockey player with fame, charm, and a heart she wasn’t ready to trust. When fate throws them back together, sparks fly, walls rise, and second chances start to feel possible. Love, fame, and fear collide in this heartfelt sports romance about learning to let someone in.

☁️ My thoughts:
I adored this book from start to finish. Brooke and Drew’s chemistry was perfection — soft, genuine, and emotionally charged in all the best ways. Brooke’s vulnerability and growth felt so real, and Drew’s quiet tenderness completely melted me 🥹. Cassandra Moll writes the kind of love that feels earned — imperfect, patient, and full of heart.

The pacing, the emotional tension, the cozy found-family moments — everything clicked. It’s the kind of romance that leaves you smiling through tears, feeling lighter than when you started. A beautiful story about taking chances and finding love when you least expect it. 💙

📚 Read if you like:
🏒 Sports romances with heart
💞 Second-chance love stories
☕ Cozy small-town vibes
💬 Honest communication & healing
🌙 Found family and emotional depth

⚠️ CW: Mentions of past heartbreak, adult language, media pressure

💬 Book 46 of the year — heartfelt, comforting, and full of slow-burn warmth. I loved every single page and didn’t want it to end. 🩵

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#TheShotsAgainstUs #CassandraMoll #SportsRomance #BookReview #BookTok #Bookstagram #RomanceReads #CozyRomance #SecondChanceLove #ReadersOfInstagram #BookishThoughts #BookishLove #BookCommunity #5StarRead #HockeyRomance

[Sunstarandsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Cassandra Moll for the ARC read.

TLDR: Great read, loving the series.

Brooke and Drew. She's his coach's gf's best friend. 5 yr age gap, she's older. They start with a quick (and HOT) bathroom romp, go seperate ways but of course, memories linger. They reconnect when she travels with the team and there begins their sweet & spicy journey to a HEA.

This is actually a really emotional read. And I say that to distinguish from a lot of other sports romances where the sports play a huge part, and the emotional is sort of along for the ride. This book gets into it - in the best possible way. Deep into the MCs' generational trauma, family conflicts, insecurities, self-perceptions etc. It digs into the layers and peels them back, and the funny thing is - Drew sees the "real" Brooke and vice versa - before they realize it for themselves.

The MCs were really interesting and intriguing, which speaks to the multi-faceted character development. He's built a professional veneer around his career and when those start to feel like chains, he struggles to break free. She's sort of moving in the opposite direction; always having lived a carefree life & now feeling the need to settle down into something more traditional. And their coming together accelerates that journey of self-discovery.

I really liked it; it was sweet and sexy. Definitely had me tearing up at points when relationships were being repaired. So yes, highly recommend.

[Westernbarbiereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — My Favorite of the Series So Far!

Finally getting my ARC review up of The Shots Against Us, and wow… I’m absolutely obsessed. This book completely exceeded every expectation I had, and I had high ones going in! It’s emotional, flirty, a little spicy, and full of heart.

Brooke and Drew’s story hooked me from the very first page. The chemistry between them is electric, but what I really loved was how real they both felt. Brooke especially, I saw so much of myself in her. She’s 30, figuring life out, a little guarded but still hopeful. Watching her let Drew in and start believing she’s worthy of love hit me hard. Brooke has officially become one of my favorite heroines in this series (and honestly, maybe in general).

And Drew? Total dream guy. He falls first, and he falls hard. There’s something so sweet about a confident pro hockey player who’s all in emotionally from the start. He never gives up on Brooke, and I adored how patient and genuine he was.

The “slow burn after the burn” setup was perfection, it kept that tension simmering while still giving us those swoony, open-door moments that totally delivered. Plus, the found family vibes from the team and side characters made it even better.

This is definitely my favorite of the Golden City Series so far. It’s got heart, humor, and so much depth. I already need the next book ASAP because I’m not ready to leave Brooke and Drew’s world yet!

Tropes:

🏒Pro hockey player
📸Team social media manager
💋One night stand
⏳Reverse age gap
🍂He Falls first
🔥Slow burn after the burn
🏡Found family
👐🚪🌶️ Open door spice

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 ⭐️ | Spice: 3.5 🌶️
What to expect: reverse age gap, pro hockey player MMC, team social media FMC, secret dating, he falls first, slow burn after the fast burn

I had high expectations for this one when I received the ARC, and I am happy to share that it did not disappoint. 👏 Drew and Brooke were honest and messy in all the best ways…both of them guarded, raw, and figuring it out as they went. Drew is scared to be his true self after years of putting on a good show, and Brooke’s worried that falling for someone younger will hold her back. But once they start breaking down each other’s walls they come together in a perfect way. I loved that Drew never gave up when it came to being with Brooke. He knew what he wanted and wasn’t afraid to go after it.

I also really loved the detail about Drew’s time on the ice. You don’t always get that in hockey romances, but seeing things from his POV during practices and games added so much depth. Drew’s teammates turned friends and Brooke’s group of family and friends were awesome too. I love the little found family they’ve built through all those friendships.

There’s plenty of flirting, yearning, and possessiveness, but it’s also full of emotional moments, honest conversations, and real healing. I laughed, I cried, and I couldn’t stop reading!!

Once I picked it up, I finished it in one night and I already want more from this series. Definitely recommend you go grab The Shots Against Us when it releases on 11/11/25! 🏒💙

[Tonje Juvik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read book one in the Golden City Series, so I high high expectations and hope for this, book two. This went even way beyond my imaginations.

This is a beautifully written hockey love story, but it also has so much more to it. We meet Brooke, a waitress that meets Drew, the captain of the hockey team. The spice is spicing at their first encounter, something they both needed in their own way, but then they don't see each other for months, Drew even without knowing who this mystery girl was.

The growth of who they were, both for themselves and others - to whom they choose to be is so well written. I have laughed, felt with them, and I had to fight my tears from falling at some scenes. I have written down so many quotes from this book that I really struggle to choose which one to tell you. Cassandra really gets the different personalities out, and how even that can work in a social setting (I'm looking at you family dinner).

The plot is amazing, and the spice is spicing. "there's not one-size-fits-all solution to life. How it's okay to change and having a destination is great, but the journey there might be the best part." which is also one of my favorite quotes, I also feel like it describes this book in many ways. The journey Brooke and Drew have is admirable.

"what I didn't consider was that readiness doesn't come with age - it comes with intention."
This will probably be my new life guiding quote.

I received this as an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Sue Eisenhauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review**

First of all, a huge THANK YOU to Cassandra Moll for allowing me the honor of reading an advanced copy of this book.

I absolutely LOVED this book. As a huge hockey fan, I had exceedingly high expectations for this hockey story and I was not disappointed. Cassandra has it right all the way through the book. Drew and Brooke's story is everything. He's the resident bad boy of the Flames with the reputation to match. She's just coasting through life, not really landing anywhere special, until all her friends begin to settle down and she starts to question her own future. Add in one temporary job and watch the sparks fly. Drew is the hockey star of the Flames team and she's just accepted a temporary position as the social media manager for the team. A one night stand, 10 months prior, that they never thought they would face again.

Sports Romance
Fun Banter
He Falls First
Reverse Age Gap
The Penalty Box! - makes me want to get 2 minutes for hooking! (come on)
Mix well and sprinkle in the sparks. YES!

I cannot wait to read book 1. This was the first time I've read Cassandra Moll and I will be reading everything else by her that I can get my hands on. The storyline is fun, witty, and fantastic - sprinkle in a little spice and whoop! Your heart will sigh and your pulse will gallop.

Thank you, Cassandra :)

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is full of characters with different quirks, great lines, hidden emotions, BANTER, and more that you will love.

Drew may be the 25 year old boy shot personality Captain in the NHL, but the real him is everything. His smolder doesn't hurt either. Brooke is 31, a free spirit looking to finally settle down who discovers not only a job she enjoys but a man she can't seem to let go of...excuses be damned.

I loved that Drew never gave up on Brooke. He knew from their first encounter that she was different and he wanted more. The things he said, and when he would get jealous.....Le sigh.

🫶🏾 A few things I loved:
Aunt Ivy
Cindy Lou Drew
Drew's convos with his mom
Mystery Girl
Milkshake aka Kale Smoothie Massacre
Bathroom Sink
Ducati
Angsty music
Aunt Ivy fell asleep to spicy romance books
Hockey teammates
Blake and Say Say
Jealous MCs

🫶🏾 A few lines:

If I've learned anything from all the places I've been and people I've met, it's that there's no answer to this life. It's not one size fits all. Not knowing exactly where you'll end up isn't wrong, Brookie. It's the journey.

Oh, darling, you can't be left behind when you're the one in the driver's seat. Some people may be going faster or slower, some may pass you altogether, but you're all headed to different places. All operating different vehicles.

Cybertrucks...Those things are ugly as all hell.