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Love and Fame #1
Snowed In
Ella Jones knows what to expect from the long, hard winters in the northern reaches of Maine: mostly boredom and monotony, broken up with a bit of skiing or quality time spent with her family.
Which leaves her utterly unprepared for the arrival of Benjamin Kakoa, a professional athlete turned advocate in need of a break from fame and notoriety.
With her world – okay, locally – famous wit and special brand of self-deprecation, Ella goes on a full-blown charm offensive to coax Ben out of his shell. But with a rocky past and an uncertain future, Ben’s walls are tougher to tear down than she could have ever anticipated.
And once they fall, Ella and Ben will have to come to terms with the potentially tragic reality of their love.
Which leaves her utterly unprepared for the arrival of Benjamin Kakoa, a professional athlete turned advocate in need of a break from fame and notoriety.
With her world – okay, locally – famous wit and special brand of self-deprecation, Ella goes on a full-blown charm offensive to coax Ben out of his shell. But with a rocky past and an uncertain future, Ben’s walls are tougher to tear down than she could have ever anticipated.
And once they fall, Ella and Ben will have to come to terms with the potentially tragic reality of their love.
340 pages, ebook
Published April 22, 2020
1362 people are currently reading
5874 people want to read
About the author
Navessa Allen
29 books20.7k followersNavessa Allen lives on a 200-year-old farm in rural New England with her husband, their cats, and an assorted collection of farm animals.
To keep up with her latest projects, check out her Patreon Page or subscribe to her website.
To keep up with her latest projects, check out her Patreon Page or subscribe to her website.
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April 14, 2020
NOW LIVE ON NETGALLEY
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June 3, 2020
This was such a fun, cute, easy read. It had snow, it had romance, it had dogs and it also covered some very important depression and mental health topics. A win from me!
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to review this ARC! #SnowedIn #Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to review this ARC! #SnowedIn #Netgalley
January 6, 2026
This one truly made me emotional. My eyeballs sprung a leak multiple times throughout this story.
I’ve lost a lot of family members to neurodegenerative disorders, and continue to to this day. It’s an unfortunate common gene in my family. While I don’t have much familiarity with CTE, I’m glad it’s brought to attention in this book because it is definitely something to consider.
Navessa always has a way of bringing characters and side characters together. All of the dogs? A solid touch to keep you distracted from the sadness. Putting together a house and many distractions later, the romance was lovely and slow.
Seeing the fmc go through the multiple stages of grief while trying to make sure she can handle a future with this disorder was nerve wracking.
I’ll need a minute to get a handle on my tears after this one.
I’ve lost a lot of family members to neurodegenerative disorders, and continue to to this day. It’s an unfortunate common gene in my family. While I don’t have much familiarity with CTE, I’m glad it’s brought to attention in this book because it is definitely something to consider.
Navessa always has a way of bringing characters and side characters together. All of the dogs? A solid touch to keep you distracted from the sadness. Putting together a house and many distractions later, the romance was lovely and slow.
Seeing the fmc go through the multiple stages of grief while trying to make sure she can handle a future with this disorder was nerve wracking.
I’ll need a minute to get a handle on my tears after this one.
May 24, 2020
I received an ARC from Netgalley. This does not influence my review. Another disclaimer, I'm friends on GR with Navessa (because her reviews are great!). This also has no bearing on my review and rating.
This book was cute, sweet, and had some good humor. I really liked both main characters, I really loved the setting. It's clearly written by a feminist author, who treats both characters with respect. The plot and premise were easy to fall into, an ex professional football player grieving his brother moves to a remote location to get himself sorted. A small town artist befriends him, and there's mutual attraction but a commitment on both of their parts for different reasons to maintain a platonic relationship.
But, this book had a lot going on. I truly enjoyed sticking with the main characters, a select neighbor, Ben's parents, and their dogs (who are absolutely characters-very heavy supporting ones), but there's a point when there's too much noise. And the depth with which Ella's diverse yet successful family was treated felt like a lot of uniformity and telling how they were different (Somali adoptee who is a surgeon, Afghan adoptee who's a wonder student and probably going to PhD, etc, an Italian sister-in-law who is a psychiatrist, Jane the successful journalist from India, etc) aside from this, their approach to problems and dialogue and voices were almost identically perfect. The only person with a distinct voice was Megan, the sole introverted sibling and person to call her sister an asshole (who backpedaled and then advised in the most neutral and human of ways).
I already mentioned the dogs. There's a lot of dog minutiae. You might like it. Some of it was cute. I appreciate then being fully integrated into this book, bc dogs are a huge part of people's lives. But for me, it got a little draining. (As an aside there's a bit of repetitive tendencies here overall, along with a telling style, but just enough skirting that that I'm not calling it out--really)
Finally, I don't know Navessa's background, and it doesn't matter, but the discussion on CTE didn't need to infodump. Often, there were paragraphs that read like lifts from articles, and didn't strike me as particularly authentic ways for either character to think of medical issues. I think about if I explain pathology to my children, or immunity to my husband, or a host of other knowledge I read and learn about on the daily, I don't use "necrosis," or "IgG" even though they might be how I think of things. And paragraphs full, when I'd prefer this edited down, put into layman's terms and move on. If two researchers or surgeons discuss this, it makes total sense. But it didn't make any in this context.
So while I loved the characters, the slow burn, the setting, I wasn't particularly impressed with the way some of the story, both medical and social didn't feel organic. Because their relationship really did. But their relationships to others was fraught with perfection and read like group therapy after several years of practice.
I will also say that I think the depression episodes incredibly done, including their impact and resolution with a loved one or three equally satisfying.
I think what I'm trying to tell you here in my review that if this book had been focused and edited down it could've been spectacular. However, there was a little too much perfection, and a little too much going on to detract from the couple's connection and taking from characters that I really truly enjoyed.
Still, I'd give it a chance, if it at all appeals, and I'll continue to follow and try the author's books.
This book was cute, sweet, and had some good humor. I really liked both main characters, I really loved the setting. It's clearly written by a feminist author, who treats both characters with respect. The plot and premise were easy to fall into, an ex professional football player grieving his brother moves to a remote location to get himself sorted. A small town artist befriends him, and there's mutual attraction but a commitment on both of their parts for different reasons to maintain a platonic relationship.
But, this book had a lot going on. I truly enjoyed sticking with the main characters, a select neighbor, Ben's parents, and their dogs (who are absolutely characters-very heavy supporting ones), but there's a point when there's too much noise. And the depth with which Ella's diverse yet successful family was treated felt like a lot of uniformity and telling how they were different (Somali adoptee who is a surgeon, Afghan adoptee who's a wonder student and probably going to PhD, etc, an Italian sister-in-law who is a psychiatrist, Jane the successful journalist from India, etc) aside from this, their approach to problems and dialogue and voices were almost identically perfect. The only person with a distinct voice was Megan, the sole introverted sibling and person to call her sister an asshole (who backpedaled and then advised in the most neutral and human of ways).
I already mentioned the dogs. There's a lot of dog minutiae. You might like it. Some of it was cute. I appreciate then being fully integrated into this book, bc dogs are a huge part of people's lives. But for me, it got a little draining. (As an aside there's a bit of repetitive tendencies here overall, along with a telling style, but just enough skirting that that I'm not calling it out--really)
Finally, I don't know Navessa's background, and it doesn't matter, but the discussion on CTE didn't need to infodump. Often, there were paragraphs that read like lifts from articles, and didn't strike me as particularly authentic ways for either character to think of medical issues. I think about if I explain pathology to my children, or immunity to my husband, or a host of other knowledge I read and learn about on the daily, I don't use "necrosis," or "IgG" even though they might be how I think of things. And paragraphs full, when I'd prefer this edited down, put into layman's terms and move on. If two researchers or surgeons discuss this, it makes total sense. But it didn't make any in this context.
So while I loved the characters, the slow burn, the setting, I wasn't particularly impressed with the way some of the story, both medical and social didn't feel organic. Because their relationship really did. But their relationships to others was fraught with perfection and read like group therapy after several years of practice.
I will also say that I think the depression episodes incredibly done, including their impact and resolution with a loved one or three equally satisfying.
I think what I'm trying to tell you here in my review that if this book had been focused and edited down it could've been spectacular. However, there was a little too much perfection, and a little too much going on to detract from the couple's connection and taking from characters that I really truly enjoyed.
Still, I'd give it a chance, if it at all appeals, and I'll continue to follow and try the author's books.
March 2, 2019
Full disclosure Navessa Allen is one of my best friends but that doesn’t make her writing any less incredible so I have no need to be biased in my reviews of her books :-)
This is the latest serial she is posting chapter by chapter on her website here: https://navessaallen.com/snowed-in/
Ive already read the first 3 chapters and I’m loving it so far so I can definitely recommend it. If you need any extra incentive the hero was inspired by Jason Momoa!!
This is the latest serial she is posting chapter by chapter on her website here: https://navessaallen.com/snowed-in/
Ive already read the first 3 chapters and I’m loving it so far so I can definitely recommend it. If you need any extra incentive the hero was inspired by Jason Momoa!!
December 23, 2025
I fully thought this was going to be light holiday fluff and instead it hit me with emotional depth, mental health themes and a man hiding out in small town Maine to escape fame. The audacity. Navessa did such a good job balancing cozy vibes with heavier topics.
February 15, 2019
*My review is most understandable if read from the bottom and then upwards with each Update.*
Updated: February 14th 2019
Full re-read now that the story's finished.
Final rating: 2.5 stars reluctantly rounded up
I don't know. I'm waaaay too disappointed in how this turned out. It went from a solid four/five star read into something I'm not completely dismissing, honestly, just because it's free.
Last update I had read until Chapter 16, which was all that was posted at the moment and seemed postponed or abandoned. With the exception of that last tid bit, I was loving the story.
But then the mood shifted completely. We went from a flirty, fun and yet realistically portrayed romantic set up for what promised to be a page turning story. And then... the atmosphere that had been building for it completely fizzled out. What I thought was a rom-com turned into depression galore. And don't get me wrong, I think the whole slew of shit that happened from that point onward was done respectfully and very obviously well researched. The problem was, I wasn't down for it. With very little warning that this would turn into a tear-fest we went from a pretty upbeat ambience, despite the serious topics that it sometimes broached, into sadness filled CHAPTERS.
Which takes me to the other thing I found that totally disrupted the pace the story had been maintaining previously. I like my romances full of on-page interactions. And I like my romances that keep the relationship as the central and main focus of the story. From Chapter 19 up until the actual Epilogue contact between the MCs is basically cut-off. They both work through the issues presented in the book separately, which again is understandable under the circumstances they are dealing with, but it's not what a romance is for me. Chapter 19 is basically a lesson in dealing with depression and grief I'm simply not interested in getting lectured about in a Contemporary Romance. After that chapter, most of the few interactions the characters do get one-on-one are about recognising symptoms, and trial treatments, and therapy, and emphasising the diagnosis Ben is given.
It kind of read clinical from then on. Every single interaction between them after that turned into mental health lessons and acknowledgements and Ella transformed into a character that didn't match who she had been until then. And I know this sounds like I'm against reading about characters dealing with mental health issues and I realise what a bitch that makes me, but it's not that. What I guess I'm trying to say is that I swear it's not where I'm coming from, my point was that this whole side plot that I felt was secondary suddenly became the main conflict of the story and it was shoddily incorporated, nothing about it was seamlessly weaved into the plot. I want my Romances to be filled with actual Romance. My initial reaction in the first recorded update in this review gives some insight into all the things that turned sour for me in the book.
I think that after Chapter 19 I was pretty much done with the story. I'm not rating it any lower because I appreciate a lot how this book was initially developed. I was absolutely static by how this began. And it's offered as a free read in the author's website which is simply amazing.
My other niggle was that the cover doesn't work for me at all. After all, this didn't end up being a sweet, fun, staycation kind of rom-com. The story happens in the dead of winter. The book is called "Snowed In". The cover doesn't make any sense.
I'm sad that after half a year of waiting for the conclusion of a story that had stayed with me for months, I didn't like it much in the end.
Updated July 12th 2018
It's been over a month since the last update. I'm really liking the story up to Chapter 16, with some minor niggles. But I don't like not having concrete posting dates and I hate being left on the lurch. So I'm marking this up as read. Up until now this is a 3 to 4 star read. And I guess we'll see later what's what.
Review up to Chapter 16:
I didn't like the split POV in this chapter. Up until now we had had a consistent one chapter of each POV and I had really liked the format. My enthusiasm over the fact that this was the chapter when the MCs fiiiinally get together was diminished by the change in pacing and structure.
I still think the story is great. I would definitely pay for it and I would love to have a finished/publication date set.
3.5 stars rounded up- subject to change!
Rating and read dates to be updated as new chapters are posted.
Can be found here.
Review up to Chapter 15:
I'm liking it so far. I'm engaged and I'm interested.
Ella's career choice is original and I'm pleasantly surprised to find it in a book.
Ben's dealing of the fallout of his career choice has been once again an unexpected part of the plot.
The writing is funny, self deprecating in a good way and fast paced. Ella's family is huge and diverse in a way that never feels like the author is just checking boxes in the inclusive bingo card. I really love how the romantic plot starts with a friendship and the recognition of it. I'm weirdly enjoying the slow burn and I can't wait of the UST to finally explode. Also, I'm a dog person and having the pets be part of the story has been nice.
As for the thing I'm liking the most? This is a story that was presented to me as a contemporary romance and THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT I'M GETTING. A relationship centred story (yeeeesssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!), while at the same time including family, friends and jobs as part of the character's lives.
I only have a couple of niggles and those are that Ella seems at times incredibly OTT and it grates on me. I can't stand bubbly personalities 24/7 x1000. And I usually have a judging attitude towards people that don't recognise their incredible privilege when they are able to spend unending months hiding in a small town spending millions on a house renovation and not having a job. Even if it is for their health. Even if it is for their mental health. Even if they are rich. Even if it makes sense plotwise. I find and will continue to find the idea of "sick days" something that's so outrageously fanciful that it only happens in first world countries where people are incapable of acknowledging how privileged that is. So Ben's capability of just disappearing and taking a break and being able to take a moment (months) for himself aggravates me.
May 10, 2020
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I looooved this one! Definitely pick it up if you´re looking for a feel-good, adorable read filled with romance and most importantly DOGS!
Characters were well written and diverse, they were reflected and had a character development that I could definitely get behind. It´s easy to see that Navessa Allen has written books before. This is so well written and the story is well though-out, she obviously has done her homework and read enough research to actually be able to tell a story with reflected characters that know a lot about matters of the brain. And it´s so diverse it actually shocked me a bit in the beginning (in a good way). It was educational, without being annoying.
The title was a bit misleading, there is very little snowing in! That´s one of two complains I have, the other one being too long descriptions which didn´t feel completely necessary.
I looooved this one! Definitely pick it up if you´re looking for a feel-good, adorable read filled with romance and most importantly DOGS!
Characters were well written and diverse, they were reflected and had a character development that I could definitely get behind. It´s easy to see that Navessa Allen has written books before. This is so well written and the story is well though-out, she obviously has done her homework and read enough research to actually be able to tell a story with reflected characters that know a lot about matters of the brain. And it´s so diverse it actually shocked me a bit in the beginning (in a good way). It was educational, without being annoying.
The title was a bit misleading, there is very little snowing in! That´s one of two complains I have, the other one being too long descriptions which didn´t feel completely necessary.
May 24, 2021
23 April 2020: $2.99 on Kindle - RELEASE DAY!!!!
LOVE this book so much! Can't wait to read it again.
**Full disclosure - Navessa Allen is one of my best friends. But I can honestly say that her writing is some of the best I've ever read.**
LOVE this book so much! Can't wait to read it again.
**Full disclosure - Navessa Allen is one of my best friends. But I can honestly say that her writing is some of the best I've ever read.**
February 8, 2019
**4.5 actual stars**
what makes me think i could start clean slated
the hardest to learn was the least complicated...
Quick establishment of bias; Navessa Allen and I are friends on Goodreads and have been for a while. With that said, I would never artificially inflate my rating just to make her happy...mostly because it wouldn't, and indeed would probably cause her to like me less. What follows is my honest opinion.
I've had a difficult time finding romances that I like, as anyone who follows my reviews can likely tell. Most genre romance (especially the traditionally published variety) at best leaves me thinking "well that was kinda cute I guess" and at worst leaves me wanting to throw my Kindle across the room.
Snowed In went above and beyond all that. Like the first relationship that really makes your head spin, Allen's book finally showed me what all the fuss was about. For the first time, I actually felt the characters and the story; it managed to gently slide its way past my cynical, analytical brain and put me on the edge of my seat, wanting matters to work out for the lovers, worried that it wouldn't, wincing at their struggles and grinning like a fool when their lives went well.
With that in mind, allow me to put on my favorite Indigo Girls CD (because sweet-yet-literate love songs feel quite appropriate here) and get into why this book worked so well for me, hopefully in a spoiler-free fashion.
Now, quick aside; thanks to my IRL romantic past, I am so not into "dark" romance. Indeed, I view it through the same lens that most combat veterans look at war movies; I've experienced the reality, so the theme-park fantasy version is about as appealing as a root canal. If such fiction is your jam, I'm not judging you...but this book is likely not your speed.
Anyhow, let's move on.
Him and Her
Cause we're okay, we're fine
Baby I'm here to stop your crying
Chase all the ghosts from your head
I'm stronger than the monster beneath your bed
Smarter than the tricks played on your heart
We'll look at them together then we'll take them apart
Adding up the total of a love that's true
Multiply life by the Power Of Two
A big place where this book was a smashing success was in the two leads, Ella and Ben. In both cases, they were the type of character that so often goes astray due to cliches or cultural gender-politics toxicity, but Allen neatly sidesteps all the bad tropes and hands the reader a pair of solid, believable, likeable protagonists that are easy to cheer for.
The heroine Ella is one of the few examples of a "quirky, spontaneous, highly emotive" female character that doesn't grow annoying, feel forced, or fall down into Manic Pixie Dream-Girl territory. She's quirky and temperamental, but not in an abusive or selfish way. Sometimes I felt like her reactions were a tad extreme/spastic, but I've personally known women like her so for me she was never unbelievable. Just a bit of a spaz, and since she sorta reminded me of a close childhood friend her antics were endearing. Your mileage may vary, but I liked her. About the only "miss" I can speak to; I've heard about the concept of "book boyfriends" and unfortunately I've yet to encounter the distaff equivalent for myself. Ella came close, but her titterflit ways would drive me up the wall in a dating relationship. With a shrug, my search for a book girlfriend must unfortunately continue.
The hero Ben was in some ways an even bigger success. Now, I know a great deal of ink has been (rightly) spilled about how male authors can't write female characters well. Yeah, that's true, a lot of male authors can't...but can we spare a moment for all the female authors who can't write believable men? Most, especially in genre romance, are irritating caricatures; selfish, macho, violent dick-driven cardboard cutouts with washboard abs whose IQ floats somewhere close to the speed limit of a country road. I've put down more than one romance because the male lead reminded me of the jerk-jocks who shoved me around my entire adolescence. Then there are the ones who basically behave like women with peens - sorry, but there are some socialized differences between the genders and its lazy writing to pretend otherwise.
Ben, on the other hand, was that rarest of creatures. He's a male character in a romance who "feels" masculine but isn't a jerk. He's patient, kind and attentive while retaining a "core" of real masculine ideals like integrity, strength of will and a desire to achieve. Also, how Ben dealt with the story's conflict resonated with me as a male reader; his decisions (and his shortcomings - the characters aren't perfect, their flaws are part of what make the story great) were familiar. More than once I found myself nodding my head and thinking "yeah, I feel ya man". I'd love to give examples, but I promised y'all a spoiler-free review.
To sum my opinion of him the best way I know how, I can say this; if Ben were real, I'd want to have a beer with him. When it comes to male leads in romance that does not happen ever.
The Conflict
maybe that's all that we need is to meet in the middle of impossibility
we're standing at opposite poles, equal partners in a mystery
equal partners in a mystery...
Now we come to the aspect of Snowed In that truly won me over - the story's conflict.
Again, this is hard to describe without resorting to spoilers, but the plot's conflict revolves around mental illness...andfor fucking once it's handled with compassion, detail and searing accuracy. The result was a nasty situation Ella and Ben must deal with that had me wincing in sympathy. These weren't overgrown children whinging about their "feelzies"; these were Grown Ass Adults dealing with Grown Ass Adult Problems.
Quick personal aside: Last April my fiancee was in a terrible, near-fatal car accident that left her crippled for months. During that time I got a big taste of how much ending up in the hospital and dealing with medical bureaucracies can totally ruin a person's mood. Allen captured the ugly cocktail of emotions in such a situation with unstinting, nigh-on perfect accuracy. My own experiences were what likely made the story resonate so hard with me, but they also let me tell you...Allen gets her shit totally right here.
Likewise, there is a moment where the characters seriously reconsider their relationship...and not only did both their reasons make perfect sense, I totally felt for them - Ben in particular. His emotions and his thought processes were so real, I could see myself in his shoes worrying about the same stuff and making the same choices (right down to his occasional "mistakes").
The ending is perfect; just the right amount stability that a good HEA needs without any magical handwaving or "Love Fixes Everything" type bullshit that shows up in SO MANY romances. At the end, Ella and Ben are about as happy as any couple could be in their situation...but they still have problems they will have to face, forever. That idea - that their situation is not and will never be perfect and does stand a chance of falling apart horribly due to forces beyond their control, but they're gonna go for it anyway - was exactly what a story like this one needed. I started out enjoying it, on the way through I was impressed with it and by the end I was satisfied.
Niggles
There's only a few minor issues that kept this from being a five-star read for me.
-present tense: The story is written in dual perspective first person, present tense. That last, I absolutely cannot freakin' STAND it. Under ordinary circumstances its a complete deal-breaker for me, so consider it a testament to Allen's abilities as a storyteller that I not only made it through this book, I enjoyed it as much as I did.
-background characters: While none of the background characters were annoying, some of them had a "sameness" to their actions and dialogue which made them run together in my head sometimes. I think its because the descriptions of who they were in Ella and Ben's life were often served in big glops, and I skimmed those because I wanted to get back to the main show. Then I was left being all "who is this person again? Why do they matter?" Its minor, but its there. One more pass through the Editing Machine would fix it methinks.
-That One Phrase: Okay, this last is a complete personal-taste issue, and it probably bothers far more than it should...but Ben uses the phrase "tongue-fuck" to describe performing oral sex on Ella. It just...I dunno, rang wrong to me and sounded gross. Maybe Allen was trying to add some salt to Ben's character (he IS a football player), but it was fart-in-church levels of nope for me. Your mileage my vary.
In the end, if you like your romances sweet but are sick of light and fluffy, I highly recommend you give Snowed In a gander. It combines gooey, affectionate romance with a serious, weighty emotive conflict, grown-ass characters and a pinch of social commentary. The perfect read for a cold winter's day.
what makes me think i could start clean slated
the hardest to learn was the least complicated...
Quick establishment of bias; Navessa Allen and I are friends on Goodreads and have been for a while. With that said, I would never artificially inflate my rating just to make her happy...mostly because it wouldn't, and indeed would probably cause her to like me less. What follows is my honest opinion.
I've had a difficult time finding romances that I like, as anyone who follows my reviews can likely tell. Most genre romance (especially the traditionally published variety) at best leaves me thinking "well that was kinda cute I guess" and at worst leaves me wanting to throw my Kindle across the room.
Snowed In went above and beyond all that. Like the first relationship that really makes your head spin, Allen's book finally showed me what all the fuss was about. For the first time, I actually felt the characters and the story; it managed to gently slide its way past my cynical, analytical brain and put me on the edge of my seat, wanting matters to work out for the lovers, worried that it wouldn't, wincing at their struggles and grinning like a fool when their lives went well.
With that in mind, allow me to put on my favorite Indigo Girls CD (because sweet-yet-literate love songs feel quite appropriate here) and get into why this book worked so well for me, hopefully in a spoiler-free fashion.
Now, quick aside; thanks to my IRL romantic past, I am so not into "dark" romance. Indeed, I view it through the same lens that most combat veterans look at war movies; I've experienced the reality, so the theme-park fantasy version is about as appealing as a root canal. If such fiction is your jam, I'm not judging you...but this book is likely not your speed.
Anyhow, let's move on.
Him and Her
Cause we're okay, we're fine
Baby I'm here to stop your crying
Chase all the ghosts from your head
I'm stronger than the monster beneath your bed
Smarter than the tricks played on your heart
We'll look at them together then we'll take them apart
Adding up the total of a love that's true
Multiply life by the Power Of Two
A big place where this book was a smashing success was in the two leads, Ella and Ben. In both cases, they were the type of character that so often goes astray due to cliches or cultural gender-politics toxicity, but Allen neatly sidesteps all the bad tropes and hands the reader a pair of solid, believable, likeable protagonists that are easy to cheer for.
The heroine Ella is one of the few examples of a "quirky, spontaneous, highly emotive" female character that doesn't grow annoying, feel forced, or fall down into Manic Pixie Dream-Girl territory. She's quirky and temperamental, but not in an abusive or selfish way. Sometimes I felt like her reactions were a tad extreme/spastic, but I've personally known women like her so for me she was never unbelievable. Just a bit of a spaz, and since she sorta reminded me of a close childhood friend her antics were endearing. Your mileage may vary, but I liked her. About the only "miss" I can speak to; I've heard about the concept of "book boyfriends" and unfortunately I've yet to encounter the distaff equivalent for myself. Ella came close, but her titterflit ways would drive me up the wall in a dating relationship. With a shrug, my search for a book girlfriend must unfortunately continue.
The hero Ben was in some ways an even bigger success. Now, I know a great deal of ink has been (rightly) spilled about how male authors can't write female characters well. Yeah, that's true, a lot of male authors can't...but can we spare a moment for all the female authors who can't write believable men? Most, especially in genre romance, are irritating caricatures; selfish, macho, violent dick-driven cardboard cutouts with washboard abs whose IQ floats somewhere close to the speed limit of a country road. I've put down more than one romance because the male lead reminded me of the jerk-jocks who shoved me around my entire adolescence. Then there are the ones who basically behave like women with peens - sorry, but there are some socialized differences between the genders and its lazy writing to pretend otherwise.
Ben, on the other hand, was that rarest of creatures. He's a male character in a romance who "feels" masculine but isn't a jerk. He's patient, kind and attentive while retaining a "core" of real masculine ideals like integrity, strength of will and a desire to achieve. Also, how Ben dealt with the story's conflict resonated with me as a male reader; his decisions (and his shortcomings - the characters aren't perfect, their flaws are part of what make the story great) were familiar. More than once I found myself nodding my head and thinking "yeah, I feel ya man". I'd love to give examples, but I promised y'all a spoiler-free review.
To sum my opinion of him the best way I know how, I can say this; if Ben were real, I'd want to have a beer with him. When it comes to male leads in romance that does not happen ever.
The Conflict
maybe that's all that we need is to meet in the middle of impossibility
we're standing at opposite poles, equal partners in a mystery
equal partners in a mystery...
Now we come to the aspect of Snowed In that truly won me over - the story's conflict.
Again, this is hard to describe without resorting to spoilers, but the plot's conflict revolves around mental illness...andfor fucking once it's handled with compassion, detail and searing accuracy. The result was a nasty situation Ella and Ben must deal with that had me wincing in sympathy. These weren't overgrown children whinging about their "feelzies"; these were Grown Ass Adults dealing with Grown Ass Adult Problems.
Quick personal aside: Last April my fiancee was in a terrible, near-fatal car accident that left her crippled for months. During that time I got a big taste of how much ending up in the hospital and dealing with medical bureaucracies can totally ruin a person's mood. Allen captured the ugly cocktail of emotions in such a situation with unstinting, nigh-on perfect accuracy. My own experiences were what likely made the story resonate so hard with me, but they also let me tell you...Allen gets her shit totally right here.
Likewise, there is a moment where the characters seriously reconsider their relationship...and not only did both their reasons make perfect sense, I totally felt for them - Ben in particular. His emotions and his thought processes were so real, I could see myself in his shoes worrying about the same stuff and making the same choices (right down to his occasional "mistakes").
The ending is perfect; just the right amount stability that a good HEA needs without any magical handwaving or "Love Fixes Everything" type bullshit that shows up in SO MANY romances. At the end, Ella and Ben are about as happy as any couple could be in their situation...but they still have problems they will have to face, forever. That idea - that their situation is not and will never be perfect and does stand a chance of falling apart horribly due to forces beyond their control, but they're gonna go for it anyway - was exactly what a story like this one needed. I started out enjoying it, on the way through I was impressed with it and by the end I was satisfied.
Niggles
There's only a few minor issues that kept this from being a five-star read for me.
-present tense: The story is written in dual perspective first person, present tense. That last, I absolutely cannot freakin' STAND it. Under ordinary circumstances its a complete deal-breaker for me, so consider it a testament to Allen's abilities as a storyteller that I not only made it through this book, I enjoyed it as much as I did.
-background characters: While none of the background characters were annoying, some of them had a "sameness" to their actions and dialogue which made them run together in my head sometimes. I think its because the descriptions of who they were in Ella and Ben's life were often served in big glops, and I skimmed those because I wanted to get back to the main show. Then I was left being all "who is this person again? Why do they matter?" Its minor, but its there. One more pass through the Editing Machine would fix it methinks.
-That One Phrase: Okay, this last is a complete personal-taste issue, and it probably bothers far more than it should...but Ben uses the phrase "tongue-fuck" to describe performing oral sex on Ella. It just...I dunno, rang wrong to me and sounded gross. Maybe Allen was trying to add some salt to Ben's character (he IS a football player), but it was fart-in-church levels of nope for me. Your mileage my vary.
In the end, if you like your romances sweet but are sick of light and fluffy, I highly recommend you give Snowed In a gander. It combines gooey, affectionate romance with a serious, weighty emotive conflict, grown-ass characters and a pinch of social commentary. The perfect read for a cold winter's day.
December 17, 2025
3⭐
2🌶
Gotta be honest, I did enjoy reading this one. It was a perfect way to start the holiday season. However, it does talk about some very deep and triggering subjects. Please be careful and read the trigger warnings.
It was a very sweet book, and I loved the characters, but I didn't feel the chemistry. I also feel like they just went instantly from friends to lovers,and that is not really my thing. It dragged it out, but it was also very sudden. However, I also understand because of the mental state our MMC was in. So I was torn.
2🌶
Gotta be honest, I did enjoy reading this one. It was a perfect way to start the holiday season. However, it does talk about some very deep and triggering subjects. Please be careful and read the trigger warnings.
It was a very sweet book, and I loved the characters, but I didn't feel the chemistry. I also feel like they just went instantly from friends to lovers,and that is not really my thing. It dragged it out, but it was also very sudden. However, I also understand because of the mental state our MMC was in. So I was torn.
April 19, 2020
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Greatest story 2020
WOW 🤩
I can’t put a proper words to Ella & Ben story
To said it as masterpiece- it’s an understatement. I knew after reading the first page I can’t just put down the book - so binge reading it is for me.
There’s so much knowledge I got regarding to mental illness that I believe author has done a very through effort of research and well put those information in such acceptable way for me as reader to absorb it easily
The chemistry between Ella & Ben are out the chart , surprisingly this is the only book up until now which I found no overwhelming fangirling of heroïne with a sport star Hero , both character are very grounded , I have weakness for Ella with such a strong personality , witty and bunch sarcastic humor
I will not label their story as slow burned - I apologies for my amateur review but nonetheless it’s only my honesty I can offer
I’m absolutely sure - you’ll deeply regreted when you don’t let yourself a chance to read Ella & Ben story
WOW 🤩
I can’t put a proper words to Ella & Ben story
To said it as masterpiece- it’s an understatement. I knew after reading the first page I can’t just put down the book - so binge reading it is for me.
There’s so much knowledge I got regarding to mental illness that I believe author has done a very through effort of research and well put those information in such acceptable way for me as reader to absorb it easily
The chemistry between Ella & Ben are out the chart , surprisingly this is the only book up until now which I found no overwhelming fangirling of heroïne with a sport star Hero , both character are very grounded , I have weakness for Ella with such a strong personality , witty and bunch sarcastic humor
I will not label their story as slow burned - I apologies for my amateur review but nonetheless it’s only my honesty I can offer
I’m absolutely sure - you’ll deeply regreted when you don’t let yourself a chance to read Ella & Ben story
December 26, 2025
I thought this was going to be a fun and easy, Christmassy read. It was not.
It had sweet moments, but this was not that kind of book. It was painful, heartbreaking, and raw — and I really loved it.
Ella is a powerhouse. She’s everywhere, always lifting people up. Ben is her opposite, and he needs her like the air he breathes. Their relationship grows from friendship to trust and then into love in a way that felt real and deeply emotional.
The heavy themes of chronic illness and an uncertain future were devastating at times. I cried more than once.
Spoiler alert: they made it work — and that made the ending even more powerful, especially after I started to fear this wouldn’t be a happy ending.
And as if my heart wasn’t full enough, we also got four dogs (two of them puppies!). That sweetness balanced the pain perfectly, and I loved Ben and Ella as dog parents.
Overall, I really liked this book. Just don’t go in expecting a cozy winter romance. You’ll cry, your heart will break — but in the end, you’ll be happy.
It had sweet moments, but this was not that kind of book. It was painful, heartbreaking, and raw — and I really loved it.
Ella is a powerhouse. She’s everywhere, always lifting people up. Ben is her opposite, and he needs her like the air he breathes. Their relationship grows from friendship to trust and then into love in a way that felt real and deeply emotional.
The heavy themes of chronic illness and an uncertain future were devastating at times. I cried more than once.
Spoiler alert: they made it work — and that made the ending even more powerful, especially after I started to fear this wouldn’t be a happy ending.
And as if my heart wasn’t full enough, we also got four dogs (two of them puppies!). That sweetness balanced the pain perfectly, and I loved Ben and Ella as dog parents.
Overall, I really liked this book. Just don’t go in expecting a cozy winter romance. You’ll cry, your heart will break — but in the end, you’ll be happy.
October 23, 2025
Snowed in by Navessa Allen
Arc from brilliance publishing
Release date: Nov 4th 2025
-Ben’s parents are adorable and funny loveee this
-they are so cute together
-the dogs sound adorable
-love the cold winter wonderland vibes
-Ella’s niece and nephew are adorable and hilarious I love how close her family is
-Ben has been through so much with his brother and the accident I understand him isolating I love that Ella is getting him outside of his comfort zone, the grief representation was done beautifully and realistically
-her having a crush and over analyzing to see if he liked her too is so me
-the granny pannies 🤣 validddd
-the spice 🤪🥵
This was a beautiful winter holiday romance 🥰
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Arc from brilliance publishing
Release date: Nov 4th 2025
-Ben’s parents are adorable and funny loveee this
-they are so cute together
-the dogs sound adorable
-love the cold winter wonderland vibes
-Ella’s niece and nephew are adorable and hilarious I love how close her family is
-Ben has been through so much with his brother and the accident I understand him isolating I love that Ella is getting him outside of his comfort zone, the grief representation was done beautifully and realistically
-her having a crush and over analyzing to see if he liked her too is so me
-the granny pannies 🤣 validddd
-the spice 🤪🥵
This was a beautiful winter holiday romance 🥰
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 28, 2025
Sparks fly in the snow when a professional football player looking for a break and a small town girl from Maine strike up a friendship. Filled with snowstorms, the cutest dogs, emotions and spice - this was such a great wintery romance. This book deals with mental illness in such a real way.
I really enjoyed how Ella and Ben came together and cared for each other, but most importantly cared for themselves as they needed to. This was a quick audiobook listen that I def recommend as a winter romance.
I really enjoyed how Ella and Ben came together and cared for each other, but most importantly cared for themselves as they needed to. This was a quick audiobook listen that I def recommend as a winter romance.
January 6, 2025
This is a simple, sweet, and funny slow-burn sports romance that transitions from strangers to lovers, sprinkled with some spicy moments. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and found myself laughing at times. The story follows Ella and Ben, two relatable and funny characters dealing with real-life problems. At different points in the book, you can see yourself in either of them.
Ben is navigating anxiety and depression brought on by professional injuries and the loss of his brother and his family. Ella, with her bubbly personality and mama bear instincts, becomes exactly what he needs. Over the course of the book, Ella also experiences personal growth, learning to communicate her feelings and listen to others instead of masking everything with humor. Despite tackling difficult topics, the story remains hopeful and heartwarming.
I especially loved the inclusion of the dogs—they added such fun and memorable moments!
What stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health. The book does an excellent job showing how mental health issues can impact people differently and emphasizes coping strategies and the importance of simply being there for someone. There’s no judgment, just understanding and support. It’s a beautiful reminder that no two mental health journeys are the same.
Ben is navigating anxiety and depression brought on by professional injuries and the loss of his brother and his family. Ella, with her bubbly personality and mama bear instincts, becomes exactly what he needs. Over the course of the book, Ella also experiences personal growth, learning to communicate her feelings and listen to others instead of masking everything with humor. Despite tackling difficult topics, the story remains hopeful and heartwarming.
I especially loved the inclusion of the dogs—they added such fun and memorable moments!
What stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health. The book does an excellent job showing how mental health issues can impact people differently and emphasizes coping strategies and the importance of simply being there for someone. There’s no judgment, just understanding and support. It’s a beautiful reminder that no two mental health journeys are the same.
June 25, 2020
I got this as an ARC from Netgalley and I have to say that this was such a lovely and easy read just what we need during this times. We have this incredible couple where Ella it's such a fun character to read and on the other hand we have Ben who is going through some trauma and the both of them start this beautiful friendship that eventually becomes something else.
I must say that I loved Ben and Ella, they were just so right for each other and I really liked
how the author wrote about mental illness in the book I think she did a pretty good job in that area.
I must say that I loved Ben and Ella, they were just so right for each other and I really liked
how the author wrote about mental illness in the book I think she did a pretty good job in that area.
November 18, 2025
I feel slightly mislead because they never actually got snowed in together, however I did love their romance & the mental health rep!!
Thank you Netgalley for the audio ARC 🫶🏻
Thank you Netgalley for the audio ARC 🫶🏻
June 8, 2020
Just wasn’t for me sadly, I got bored, too much irrelevant information thrown at you and I love dogs, but seriously this was too much even for me. It also see,Ed to be paced quite badly to me, it seems plenty of others enjoyed this so maybe it’s just me., but this one didn’t do it for me.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
June 22, 2020
Stars: 4/5
Thank you for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This story surprised me. Like really surprised me.
The romance is there, the sexiness is there. No surprise. But the serious issues and disabilities it deals with? Surprised. It's not all fluffy, so don't expect it! The disability/ condition is clearly researched into. How accurate is it? I'm not sure, i'd have to look into it but that's not what we're criticising here.
The MCs are Ben and Ella. Ben is solidly sexy. Ex football player (UFL? Can't remember but it's important) and Ella is bright and bubbly and deep. I liked both characters - Ben's more so because he's got depth, he's got purpose, he has substance. Ella... not so. Don't get me wrong I liked her but it just felt like she was support for Ben. Not joking her 'problems' didn't come to light until the third last chapter and it just felt like for the hell of it. Like it needed to be included but wasn't detrimental to the story. If it weren't a romance, Ella wouldn't even be a character. A sad but honest fact. Sure, she helped Ben, she supported Ben. She was empathetic and helpful and that's so important when struggling with such serious issues... but what about Ella's story? She had a minor one but Ben's was explored and in-depth. I would rather the story be longer and explore Ella's adoption etc (not a spoiler) than have her a 'shallow' character - in terms of character depth. You get me?
That said, this story made me laugh, made my heart swell and butterflies in my stomach. It's written well and the plot is incredibly important. It's good to see this representation out there. The condition written about and discussed is clearly important to Allen and you can see her effort, passion and interest in it explored in the work. That's what made this story so great. Along with the romance and sexy scenes, of course.
The characters had great chemistry at the start of the book. I loved that new, good-friend-but-I-kinda-fancy-you energy and the teasing and jokes. I love when they start to flirt with each other. It's so pretty and intriguing. Then the serious part of the book comes and it's a different kind of energy, a different kind of chemistry. It's supportive, loving. Very realistic and hopeful in my eyes.
The last thing I want to add about this story, and it may be because I got an ARC or something, but there are certain spelling/ grammar problems. For example Sofia is occasionally spelt 'Sophia' and it can be distracting. Also... too many supporting characters. Willow? Amazing. Adorable, little terror. But did she help the storyline? No. But you know who makes up for it and are essential characters? Sam and Fred. You need to read the story to find out who this is and why they're detrimental.
WARNINGS: grief, mental illness, anxiety, depression, mature scenes
RECOMMEND: for 18+, people who love romance but also like to learn at the same time as enjoy. You will learn about mental illness and a particular disorder/ physical chronic issue
Thank you for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This story surprised me. Like really surprised me.
The romance is there, the sexiness is there. No surprise. But the serious issues and disabilities it deals with? Surprised. It's not all fluffy, so don't expect it! The disability/ condition is clearly researched into. How accurate is it? I'm not sure, i'd have to look into it but that's not what we're criticising here.
The MCs are Ben and Ella. Ben is solidly sexy. Ex football player (UFL? Can't remember but it's important) and Ella is bright and bubbly and deep. I liked both characters - Ben's more so because he's got depth, he's got purpose, he has substance. Ella... not so. Don't get me wrong I liked her but it just felt like she was support for Ben. Not joking her 'problems' didn't come to light until the third last chapter and it just felt like for the hell of it. Like it needed to be included but wasn't detrimental to the story. If it weren't a romance, Ella wouldn't even be a character. A sad but honest fact. Sure, she helped Ben, she supported Ben. She was empathetic and helpful and that's so important when struggling with such serious issues... but what about Ella's story? She had a minor one but Ben's was explored and in-depth. I would rather the story be longer and explore Ella's adoption etc (not a spoiler) than have her a 'shallow' character - in terms of character depth. You get me?
That said, this story made me laugh, made my heart swell and butterflies in my stomach. It's written well and the plot is incredibly important. It's good to see this representation out there. The condition written about and discussed is clearly important to Allen and you can see her effort, passion and interest in it explored in the work. That's what made this story so great. Along with the romance and sexy scenes, of course.
The characters had great chemistry at the start of the book. I loved that new, good-friend-but-I-kinda-fancy-you energy and the teasing and jokes. I love when they start to flirt with each other. It's so pretty and intriguing. Then the serious part of the book comes and it's a different kind of energy, a different kind of chemistry. It's supportive, loving. Very realistic and hopeful in my eyes.
The last thing I want to add about this story, and it may be because I got an ARC or something, but there are certain spelling/ grammar problems. For example Sofia is occasionally spelt 'Sophia' and it can be distracting. Also... too many supporting characters. Willow? Amazing. Adorable, little terror. But did she help the storyline? No. But you know who makes up for it and are essential characters? Sam and Fred. You need to read the story to find out who this is and why they're detrimental.
WARNINGS: grief, mental illness, anxiety, depression, mature scenes
RECOMMEND: for 18+, people who love romance but also like to learn at the same time as enjoy. You will learn about mental illness and a particular disorder/ physical chronic issue
November 29, 2025
4.25 stars.
Navessa Allen's "Snowed In" is an often cozy holiday-time read, but it's also a lot more serious and heavy than I imagined it would be. It has quite a lot of depth to it, dealing with the topic of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and how it is ignored by the media and the NFL, mental health, and the price of fame. I really enjoyed this book. I appreciated the romance between the main characters, Ella and Ben, so, so much. They are both such interesting, likable characters who have fantastic chemistry and banter with one another. Ben is struggling with his mental health and with the fame that being a football player has brought to his life, so he is hiding out in a small Maine town, trying to regroup and live a smaller, less exposed life. Ella lives in said small town and is a graphic designer. She and Ben become quick friends as she agrees to keep his secret. They both realize they can trust one another, and their bond strengthens over time. It's sweet, realistic, and funny, with a heaping side of serious. Sophie Daniels and Matt Mercurio's dual narration brings these characters to life in such a wonderful way. Add in a couple of adorable dogs, some uncontrollable weather, a slow-burning romance, and emotional honesty, and you've got a recipe for one heck of a book. Honestly, this book feels equal parts special and important. While the friendships in the book are excellent, and the romance is also good, the candor surrounding the conversation of CTE will leave a lot of readers thinking about it long after they have finished the book. I don't watch football because I don't appreciate how they have treated the issue of CTE, so it was nice to see this very serious subject treated with dignity, respect, and importance. Navessa Allen hasn't missed with me yet. Though this book is quite different from the others she has written that I have read,
Thank you to NetGalley, Navessa Allen, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Navessa Allen's "Snowed In" is an often cozy holiday-time read, but it's also a lot more serious and heavy than I imagined it would be. It has quite a lot of depth to it, dealing with the topic of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and how it is ignored by the media and the NFL, mental health, and the price of fame. I really enjoyed this book. I appreciated the romance between the main characters, Ella and Ben, so, so much. They are both such interesting, likable characters who have fantastic chemistry and banter with one another. Ben is struggling with his mental health and with the fame that being a football player has brought to his life, so he is hiding out in a small Maine town, trying to regroup and live a smaller, less exposed life. Ella lives in said small town and is a graphic designer. She and Ben become quick friends as she agrees to keep his secret. They both realize they can trust one another, and their bond strengthens over time. It's sweet, realistic, and funny, with a heaping side of serious. Sophie Daniels and Matt Mercurio's dual narration brings these characters to life in such a wonderful way. Add in a couple of adorable dogs, some uncontrollable weather, a slow-burning romance, and emotional honesty, and you've got a recipe for one heck of a book. Honestly, this book feels equal parts special and important. While the friendships in the book are excellent, and the romance is also good, the candor surrounding the conversation of CTE will leave a lot of readers thinking about it long after they have finished the book. I don't watch football because I don't appreciate how they have treated the issue of CTE, so it was nice to see this very serious subject treated with dignity, respect, and importance. Navessa Allen hasn't missed with me yet. Though this book is quite different from the others she has written that I have read,
Thank you to NetGalley, Navessa Allen, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
December 14, 2025
3.5⭐️
A book that started off being quite cute and cosy. Winter, Christmas, small town vibes. But went very deep in its content especially with regards to mental health representation, toxic masculinity culture especially in sports and deep exploration of CTE injuries and effects of this on people. I enjoyed those aspects of the book and how deep it went with the issues.
But it weighed the book down a lot especially in the back 50% and the characters personalities essentially got a little misplaced because of all the focus on those topics. It was still a really solid book but I found that it dragged at parts. Ultimately the last 5% felt super rushed. I don’t like when authors write romance books and have everything resolved very quickly in the final 5% and don’t give you time to spend with the characters. I think if she had streamlined the story a bit, it would have given a bit more time with the MCs in their HEA. I still enjoyed the dynamic between the MCs and both of their issues. It felt nice to read a romance book that felt a bit more realistic. But it could’ve done with more tightened pacing. Overall an enjoyable book.
A book that started off being quite cute and cosy. Winter, Christmas, small town vibes. But went very deep in its content especially with regards to mental health representation, toxic masculinity culture especially in sports and deep exploration of CTE injuries and effects of this on people. I enjoyed those aspects of the book and how deep it went with the issues.
But it weighed the book down a lot especially in the back 50% and the characters personalities essentially got a little misplaced because of all the focus on those topics. It was still a really solid book but I found that it dragged at parts. Ultimately the last 5% felt super rushed. I don’t like when authors write romance books and have everything resolved very quickly in the final 5% and don’t give you time to spend with the characters. I think if she had streamlined the story a bit, it would have given a bit more time with the MCs in their HEA. I still enjoyed the dynamic between the MCs and both of their issues. It felt nice to read a romance book that felt a bit more realistic. But it could’ve done with more tightened pacing. Overall an enjoyable book.
Want to read
December 24, 2018Added already but with an extra recommendation from Eric Plume.
November 18, 2025
4.5 🌟 rounded up for GR!
review to come cause Ben and Ella had me like 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
review to come cause Ben and Ella had me like 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
December 2, 2025
3.5⭐️ 2🌶️
Great mental health rep. Very insightful into CTE and TBIs
Great mental health rep. Very insightful into CTE and TBIs
October 26, 2025
*audiobook
“Hopefully all this turmoil we’re had lately is just the death rattle of the older more intolerant generations.”
“Did you get me puppies!?”
“If he were a painting, it would be titled ‘up against the wall’ because that’s how everybody would want it when they looked at him.”
“You wanna be my nemesis?”
“You’re going to need more than an ugly pair of panties to make me not want to sleep with you.”
Thank you to the tagged publisher for my #gifted copy of this one in exchange for my honest opinions.
I did this one as an audiobook book and thought the narrator suited the story well. The narrator for Ben sounded like he had a cold but honestly it kinda worked.
There are political undertones in this one as well as addressing other relevant issues such as TBIs/CTE which are so common amongst people who play contact sports.
It also has a woman (Ella’s Aunt) who loves children but chose not to have kids of her own which was refreshing because I have so many friends who have made the same choice and never see characters in books to rep this group. It’s more and more common.
It’s also a must love dogs situation which I loved….soooo many dogs.
Sudden increase in Ben’s libido. Woot woot.
I saw a lot of myself in Ella from her sense of humor, love of dogs and strong urge to help people (which isn’t always something that should be done) and desire to take action. There are right ways and long ways to do this. Sometimes less is more.
So after reading Navessa’s ummm darker works, I was surprised with this one and how lighthearted it was while dealing with heavier issues too…the dogs def helped. I just found myself smiling constantly while reading / listening to this one.
The “skunkarooney” dance was prob one of the most cringey parts of any book I’ve read as of late but it cracked me up.
The kindness and compassion these characters had was just the best.
“Hopefully all this turmoil we’re had lately is just the death rattle of the older more intolerant generations.”
“Did you get me puppies!?”
“If he were a painting, it would be titled ‘up against the wall’ because that’s how everybody would want it when they looked at him.”
“You wanna be my nemesis?”
“You’re going to need more than an ugly pair of panties to make me not want to sleep with you.”
Thank you to the tagged publisher for my #gifted copy of this one in exchange for my honest opinions.
I did this one as an audiobook book and thought the narrator suited the story well. The narrator for Ben sounded like he had a cold but honestly it kinda worked.
There are political undertones in this one as well as addressing other relevant issues such as TBIs/CTE which are so common amongst people who play contact sports.
It also has a woman (Ella’s Aunt) who loves children but chose not to have kids of her own which was refreshing because I have so many friends who have made the same choice and never see characters in books to rep this group. It’s more and more common.
It’s also a must love dogs situation which I loved….soooo many dogs.
Sudden increase in Ben’s libido. Woot woot.
I saw a lot of myself in Ella from her sense of humor, love of dogs and strong urge to help people (which isn’t always something that should be done) and desire to take action. There are right ways and long ways to do this. Sometimes less is more.
So after reading Navessa’s ummm darker works, I was surprised with this one and how lighthearted it was while dealing with heavier issues too…the dogs def helped. I just found myself smiling constantly while reading / listening to this one.
The “skunkarooney” dance was prob one of the most cringey parts of any book I’ve read as of late but it cracked me up.
The kindness and compassion these characters had was just the best.
December 14, 2025
Okay… this book is criminally underrated and deserves WAY more hype! 🤍📚
Ella Jones is a young entrepreneur living in a tiny northern Maine town with her two lovable huskies 🐾where isolation isn’t just a vibe, it’s a whole lifestyle, especially in winter.
Then there’s Benjamin Kakoa, a retired pro football player 🏈 who’s hiding from the spotlight after a heartbreaking family tragedy. While trying to heal, he’s also fighting for better safety regulations in the sport he used to love.
This story beautifully explores friendship, depression, anxiety, trust, vulnerability, love, and fresh beginnings. ✨
I loved how raw both characters were, and how painfully human their struggles felt. This book truly took me by surprise, and I couldn’t put it down. The banter? Perfect. Their support for each other? Even better. ❤️🩹
As a Navessa Allen fan, this one might feel a little different from her usual style, but the writing? Absolutely top-tier. 🙌
January 4, 2026
This was a cute quick palate cleanser. I always appreciate a good book with some realistic mental health rep. My only qualm is at times the discussion on CTE felt more like an info dump from a medical journal rather than part of a romance novel. There was definitely opportunities for expansion on some topics as well but overall a good read.
January 13, 2026
For a book that looked like a love story it really dove extremely far into some hot topics but sadly.... in a boring way
November 21, 2025
I absolutely adored this. It was perfect. I found myself hysterically laughing so much then had some almost tear moments and just absolutely loved the dynamic and story itself.
Highly recommend giving this one a try!
Highly recommend giving this one a try!
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