Campus Rival

CFU Hockey #2

by Cadence Keys

Hating Drew Dumontier is in my DNA. He’s the star defenseman for CFU hockey, a golden boy with a lethal smirk, and the undisputed bane of my existence. Our families have been at war for seventy years, and nothing will stop me from winning.

Our family feud is legendary on campus…and so are the pranks we pull on each other.

Turns out the universe has a twisted sense of humor. Not only are we forced together as partners on a psychology project worth half our final grade, but a baby is left on his doorstep with a note claiming he’s the father.

Watching the arrogant hockey star transform into a devoted single dad is a complication I never saw coming. As the nights get longer and the tension between us reaches a breaking point, the hatred I’ve nourished for years begins to feel a lot like desire.

But it’s the way he protects his daughter and supports my dreams that changes everything. He’s no longer just the enemy; he’s the person who makes me want to break the cycle once and for all.

He tells me he’s choosing me over our families. He says he loves me more than the grudge. But trust is a dangerous thing for a Tinsley to give a Dumontier.

Especially when a secret is revealed that makes me wonder if I was just a pawn in a locker room game all along.

Campus Rival is a steamy enemies to lovers college hockey romance. If you love feuding families, banter, combustible tension, and a college athlete and his roommates turning into big softies for his baby daughter, then you won’t want to miss this one. It’s book 2 in the CFU Hockey series, but can be read as a standalone.

Genres: Hockey, Forced Proximity

402 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 23, 2026

About the author

Cadence Keys writes steamy contemporary sports romances about complex alpha males and the women who love them. She loves football, coffee, and watching Gilmore Girl marathons. She has been writing for almost a decade, but only recently got the gumption to really do something with her work. She looks forward to publishing many more novels, specifically her LA Wolves series.

You can also find more information about all future releases at www.cadencekeysauthor.com/

Reviews

[Laura Fabian · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC & ALC kinldy provided for the author in exchnage for an honest review

Rival Campus was my first introduction to Cadence Keys and it became one of my favorite reads of the month! I absolutely LOVED Drew & Harper's love story, the way Rory's arrival changed their interactions, all the drama the rivalry between their families added to the plot, and how wonderful ALL the secondary characters in this book are! So I will definitely be reading more from this author.

Harper stole my heart from the very first chapter! I really enjoyed reading about her extremely playful, daring, and big-hearted personality. I loved reading about her love for music and her desire to support others through it, which is also why it broke my heart so much to read about her doubting her musical talent, partly due to her parents' disapproval of her career. I also loved her relationship with the girls, how they support her, understand her love for music, and how well Harper fits into Drew's group of friends, who end up appreciating her as much as he does.

Drew is a very interesting character: a hockey player at CFU known for being a playboy, whose life takes a huge turn when he finds out he has a baby to take care of, and I loved that the guys on the team and their girlfriends are there to support him and help him with Rory from the very beginning. I also really enjoyed reading it as a super-committed father, worried about his baby's well-being, struggling to know what to do but also striving to be the dad she deserves, that's why I really liked that Drew rethinks the kind of guy he was, is, and wants to be, the example he wants to set for Rory, and how he realizes he needs to change certain aspects of his life, although at the same time, I don't entirely like that he only makes this change because he has A DAUGHTER; I don't know, it's complicated.

As I mentioned, one of the things I liked most about this book was that Harper & Drew belong to families that have been feuding for years, and how this adds the most delicious, entertaining, and at times painful drama, and that's why this couple has been playing the most outrageous pranks on each other for years. And when they are forced to work together on a school project, everything changes between them in the funniest and most beautiful way because Cadence Keys showed me the true feelings of these characters for each other, she gave me the most beautiful moments between Harper & Rory because the little girl falls in love with Harper as much as her dad does, and they both show it in the most adorable ways throughout the book.

🎧Audiobook Review🎧

🏒Narrators: Grayson Owens & Rose Dioro
🩷Duet Narration
🎻Narration: 5/5

The audiobook is one of the best I've listened to this year! The narrators were more than perfect and made me thoroughly enjoy Drew & Harper's story.

Grayson Owens is the best Drew Cadence could have chosen, and since he's one of my favorite narrators, I had high expectations, and he exceeded them all! I loved hearing him portray Drew's crisis when Rory enters his life, but my favorite moments were all those where we see how hopelessly in love he is with Harper and how he fights for her love despite the obstacles both families put in their way.

I think this is the first time I've heard Rose Dioro, and I completely fell in love with her! I LOVED hearing her at the beginning of the book as Harper being the most Machiavellian with the pranks she plays on Drew, but also how vulnerable she is toward the end of the book and how this narrator made me feel alongside her.

🏒Drew: 5/5
🎻Harper: 5/5
🏒Plot: 5/5
🎻Love story: 5/5
🏒Secondary characters: 5/5
🎻Cover: 5/5
🏒Narración: 5/5
🥵: 3/5

ARC & ALC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta

Campus Rival fue mi primer acercamiento a Cadence Keys y se convirtió en una de mis lecturas favoritas del mes! AMÉ con locura la historia de amor de Drew & Harper, el toque que la llegada de Rory le dio a sus interacciones, todo el drama que agregó a la trama la rivalidad entre sus familias y lo hermosos que son TODOS los personajes secundarios de este libro! Así que definitivamente estaré leyendo más de esta autora.

Harper se robó mi corazón desde el primer capitulo! disfruté mucho leer su personalidad extremadamente juguetona, atrevida y con un gran corazón, me encantó leerla amando la música y queriendo apoyar a otras personas por medio de ella, también por eso es que me rompió tanto el corazón leerla dudando de su talento musical en parte gracias a la desaprobación de sus papás por su carrera. También me encantó su relación con las chicas, como ellas la apoyan, entienden su amor por la musica y lo bien que Harper encaja en el grupo de amigos de Drew y ellos terminan apreciándola tanto como él.

Drew es un personaje muy interesante: un jugador de hockey en CFU conocido por ser un mujeriego y que ve su vida dar un giro enorme cuando se entera que tiene una bebé de la que se tiene que hacer cargo, y me encantó que los chicos del equipo y sus novias estén ahí para apoyarlo y ayudarlo con Rory desde el principio. También disfruté mucho leerlo siendo un padre super comprometido con el bienestar de su bebé, sufriendo por no saber qué hacer pero también luchando por ser el papá que ella merece, por eso me gustó mucho que Drew se replantee el tipo de chico que era, que es y que quiere ser, el ejemplo que le quiere dar a Rory y como se da cuenta de que necesita cambiar ciertos aspectos de su vida, aunque al mismo tiempo no me agrada del todo que solo haga este cambio porque tiene UNA HIJA, no sé es algo complicado.

Como ya mencioné, una de las cosas que más me gustó de este libro fue que Harper & Drew pertenecen a familias que llevan años enfrentadas y como esto agrega el drama más delicioso, entretenido, y doloroso por momentos, por esa razón esta pareja lleva años jugándose las bromas más pesadas. Y cuando se ven obligados a trabajar juntos en un proyecto escolar todo cambia entre ellos de la manera más divertida y hermosa porque Cadence Keys me mostró los verdaderos sentimientos de estos personajes por el otro, me dio los momentos más hermosos entre Harper & Rory porque la pequeña se enamora de Harper tanto como su papá y ambos lo demuestran de las maneras más adorables a lo largo del libro.

🎧Reseña del audiolibro🎧

🏒Narradores: Grayson Owens & Rose Dioro
🩷Narración en dueto
🎻Narración: 5/5

El audiolibro es uno de los mejores que escuchado este año! Los narradores fueron más que perfectos y me hicieron disfrutar muchisimo de la historia de Drew & Harper.

Grayson Owens es el mejor Drew que Cadence pudo elegir, y ya que él es uno de mis narradores favoritos tenía muchas expectativas y las superó todas! Me encantó escucharlo interpretar la crisis de Drew cuando Rory llega a su vida, pero mis momentos favoritos fueron todos esos en los que podemos darnos cuenta lo perdidamente enamorado que esta de Harper y como lucha por su amor a pesar de los obstáculos que ponen ambas familias.

Creo que es la primera vez que escucho a Rose Dioro y me enamoré de ella por completo! AMÉ escucharla al principio del libro como Harper siendo la más maquiavélica con las bromas que le hace a Drew, pero también lo vulnerable que se muestra hacia el final del libro y la forma en la que esta narradora me hizo sentir con ella.

🏒Drew: 5/5
🎻Harper: 5/5
🏒Trama: 5/5
🎻Historia de amor: 5/5
🏒Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🎻Portada: 5/5
🏒Narración: 5/5
🥵: 3/5

[Sarah Putrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was full of banter, emotion, and sweetness. Second book in the series but a first for me by this author, can easily be read as a standalone. I couldn't put this enemies to lovers book down it captures your attention right out of the gate.

I read this book as an audiobook and followed along with the ebook. The voice actors were spot on for the audiobook and made the experience even more enjoyable. I definitely recommend picking up the audiobook for the ultimate reading experience.

Harper and Drew have unfortunately followed in their families 70 year long family feud despite being brief friends as kids before something went wrong. Ever since they were kids they have pranked each other for years and now into their college years that hasn't changed but they suddenly have to learn to work together for a project worth half their one class grade. Life throws a huge curveball at Drew though that changes his life and perspective completely.

Drew's life has always centered around hockey it's what keeps him grounded and has been his life since he was a kid. He hasn't made time for relationships or anything long term he's known as quite the playboy at college. Until Harper's prank then a baby literally fell into his lap. His whole life has to change in an instant. The feud seems pointless, they start to look past it and start to get close. Drew might seem tough on the surface but you could definitely tell he's an absolute sweetheart of a man especially with that little girl. He fights for those he cares about and you can tell he's a very sensitive person who wants to be loved.

Harper is all about her music and getting through college to do music therapy for kids. She's got goals and determination. Her and Drew's pranks take on a whole new level before things get flipped upside down for Drew where she starts to see another side of him. Harper is this insanely talented woman who's lacked any support from her family to give her more confidence. She stays true to herself and her goals in life. She longs for acceptance and a love that is true and meaningful.

Harper and Drew together was the sweetest thing. Once they finally broke away from the enemies or hate of each other to truly see that what they had was raw chemistry and deep feelings. What their banter really was was yearning for each other. All this time they've both been secretly attracted to each other. Seeing their relationship grow to that of complete trust and love was beautiful. They had their bumps along the way but their HEA was so good and so swoony. The spice throughout was perfect. The love they both had for that little girl melts your heart as well.

I'm not one to lean towards reading enemies to lovers but I thoroughly enjoyed this one. This book is funny with lots of banter, sweet with swoon worthy romance and it will take you on an emotional ride so you might need those tissues handy. Definitely one to add to your TBR!

[Jo Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

CAMPUS RIVAL by CANDENCE KEYS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Campus Rival is the second (#2) book in the CFU HOCKEY series.


Star hockey defenceman Drew Dumontier and music therapy major Harper Tinsley are sworn enemies. Continuing a 70 year family feud, the pair despise each other and regularly prank the other.

When they are reluctantly paired together on a psychology project, they are forced to put their differences aside and work together. Not only is Drew struggling with this project but he is also wrangling life as a single dad after his surprise newborn daughter is left on his doorstep.

As the pair work together their rivalry is put to one side as Harper helps him juggle fatherhood with both hockey and the project, defying both family’s animosity. The more time they spend together the closer they become, but true love never runs smooth and when Drew makes a mistake the perfect future they are building together starts to crumble….

—————————


I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series so was delighted to get a chance to review this, the second book in the CFU HOCKEY series.

This is a lovely story of overcoming bias, forgiveness and acceptance. I loved the way Drew took on the responsibility of his daughter without question and the support his housemates gave him was so adorable. Also his support of Harper’s music right away was sweet.

There is quite a bit of open door spice shown, if I’m totally honest, a bit too much for my personal taste but it didn’t affect my my enjoyment of the book (I just skipped those parts), as the rest of the story was interesting and engaging enough to keep me reading.

I would have liked to have seen how their project went as I thought they would link it into their own personal coming together and how their extended college family affected Rory.

The way the pair moved past their family feud was well written and it really got me thinking about how they were being more mature than their family members.

All characters are well written and interesting and I liked the tease for Ava’s story.

This is a great read with around 400 pages, a cute character cover and great editing

With thanks to CANDENCE Keys for an early copy of this delightful book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.

👶🏼 Forced Proximity
👶🏼 Single Dad
👶🏼 Enemies to Lovers
👶🏼 Spicy 🔥🔥🔥

[Dhawy Febrianti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from author

Can you have feelings for someone from a family that has been your family’s enemy for generations? If you can, let me tell you… Drew Dumontier and Harper Tinsley can. But they also carry the weight of a feud that started long before they were even born. Somehow… everything about their family situation makes me laugh uncontrollably.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not downplaying the feud. But the way they carry that history and turn it into funny pranks and years of constant antagonizing? I can’t help it. The kind of pranks that make the whole campus burst into laughter. The kind of pranks that kept me glued to this book. And the kind that slowly lead me into realizing that this story holds so much more than just a young enemies-to-lovers dynamic.

What I love the most about this book is the development of the young male characters. Even outside the hockey games, Drew’s teammates are incredibly solid and supportive. I lost count of how many times they step in to help him take care of his baby. Instead of judging him for suddenly becoming a single dad, they choose to show up for him.

And hahaha… I’m laughing again, remembering how confused they all are, randomly singing pop songs to sooth the baby and help her sleep. If that baby could complain…

I’m genuinely impressed by Drew’s transformation. From a carefree hockey player who never takes relationships seriously, he grows into a protective father with a clear goal, to become a man his daughter can respect. He really matures. Here’s my favorite line that captures it:

“Maybe I was going to screw up more times than I could count. But I was going to figure it out because that’s what you did for family. You showed up, you did the work, and you didn’t give up.”

From an ignorant kind of guy, Drew becomes thoughtful and careful in the way he makes decisions. He knows he can’t risk loving someone who wouldn’t fully accept his daughter, so he takes his time, really thinking through what to do with his growing feelings for Harper.

And then comes my favorite line from Liam:

“Being careful doesn’t mean not taking chances at all. It just means taking the right ones, at the right time, for the right reasons.”

See??? Now can you believe how exceptional the development of these young male characters is??? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[readsbygiftx · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m completely in love with Drew. The way he’s utterly besotted with his daughter completely melted me. Watching him transform from a cocky playboy—who constantly annoys and pulls pranks on Harper because of their family feud—into the most devoted girl dad to Aurora was everything. I couldn’t stop smiling at how attentive he is, how nothing matters more than his daughter’s needs. It was genuinely heart-melting.

Harper gives off strong black-cat energy at first, but underneath it all, she has the softest heart. The way she steps up for Aurora feels so natural and deeply touching—you really see her depth through her actions.

What I loved most is the maturity they both show. Once they realise their feelings for each other, they don’t let a third-generation family feud dictate their lives—they choose each other, which makes their love story feel even more meaningful. And their chemistry? So good!

This book is pure comfort—warm, emotional, and filled with that found-family feeling, supported by a solid and lovable group of friends (who I already adored from the first book).

If you’re looking for a feel-good hockey romance with delicious slow-burn tension, a scene-stealing baby, emotional growth, and a dirty-talking hockey player—this one will absolutely steal your heart.

---
🎧 ALC 🎧
I also had the absolute pleasure of experiencing the audiobook, and wow—it elevated the story even more. Narrated by Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro, this was such a standout performance.

Grayson Owens never disappoints. His voice brought Drew to life in the best possible way, capturing that perfect balance between cocky charm and soft, devoted dad energy. You could feel every shift in his character.

Rose Dioro was equally incredible as Harper. She embodied that black-cat energy so effortlessly while still delivering all the quiet vulnerability and warmth underneath. Together, their voices complemented each other beautifully and added so much depth to the story.

And can we just appreciate how perfectly cast this was? Cadence Keys truly knows how to pick narrators that enhance her characters and make the story even more immersive.

I’m already so excited (and curious!) to see who she’ll choose for the next book in the series.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

First thank you for allowing me to ARC read this book!!!

This. Right here. Is hands down one of the best enemies-to-lovers books I’ve ever read. The “I hate you” chemistry? Absolutely on point. Harper and Andrew are pure chef’s kiss perfection. From the very beginning, their tension was sharp, intense, and completely addictive. You could feel the history, the frustration, and the pull between them in every single interaction.

What really elevated this story for me was the depth behind their conflict. This wasn’t just surface-level dislike—this was generational hatred, family vs. family, years of tension and expectations weighing on both of them. It made everything feel so much more intense and meaningful. Every argument, every moment of pushback, every reluctant step toward each other carried so much weight, and I was completely hooked on watching it all unfold.

I absolutely loved Harper. She’s strong, determined, and doesn’t back down, even when everything around her is telling her to. And Drew? I adored him. Seeing him as a single father added such a beautiful layer to his character. The way his life shifts because of his daughter Aurora—Rory—was so heartwarming. She honestly stole so many scenes for me. The way she softened Drew, changed his priorities, and added that extra layer of love and vulnerability to the story? Perfection.

And when that banter between Harper and Drew starts to shift? When the tension stops being just anger and starts turning into something more? Game over. The chemistry completely takes over, and it was everything I wanted and more. The transition from enemies to something deeper felt earned, intense, and so satisfying.

I also really loved the way Drew supports Harper. Underneath all the tension and history, there’s this solid foundation of respect and care that builds between them, and it made their relationship feel even more real and meaningful.

This book had everything—intensity, emotion, incredible character growth, and a romance that truly delivers. It’s easily one of my favorites now, and I cannot wait to read more from this author

[BeccaFay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drew Dumontier & Harper Tinsley have hated each other almost their whole lives because of a generations long family feud. They each play harmless pranks on each other. There’s a bachelor auction where Harper bids $300 to “buy” Drew and she plans to make him cater to her every need during an upcoming recital. The entire school knows about their rivalry so they’re all rightfully shocked she bid on him and won. After they get through the recital, they’re paired up for a school project 🫢 along the way, there’s a website started about Drew and what a horrible lover he is. Being a ladies man, that very obviously damaged his reputation and made all women steer clear of him. Drew suspects the website creator is Harper, but doesn’t have any concrete evidence. One night after his hockey team gets a win, him and the teammates have a party. Drew goes to his room to get away from it all since he’s not having luck with any women. There he finds a baby with a note attached saying it’s his! Immediately again he suspects it’s another of Harper’s pranks. He very soon realizes it’s not a prank but reality. Now he has to navigate being a college student, hockey player and most importantly a good father.

I loved this book 🥹 I’m not really one for the single parent trope, but this was so perfectly done. I fell in love with Drew and his love for Rory. He had such a great support group with his teammates and family. I really liked that the website was functional 😂 I accidentally clicked the link and was taken right to the reviews of Drew. That was a great touch!
Harper’s love for music and using it for healing was so fitting for her. She was so passionate about it. I’m so happy she finally understood how talented she was.
I loved, loved, loved the ending. I was so happy Drew & Harper got what they wanted together with Rory 🥰 the 5 years later epilogue was 🥹

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[Felecia Rodney · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC/ALC Review:
Duet Narration by Rose Dioro and Grayson Owens

Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
College hockey
Single Dad
Family rivalry
Slow burn

This was honestly one of the best examples of the enemies-to-lovers trope I’ve read. Harper and Drew’s dynamic had me hooked immediately. I was laughing within the first couple of chapters thanks to their over-the-top pranks, but also cringing when they pushed things a little too far—it felt so real for two people who genuinely believed they hated each other.

The story centers around their 70 year long-standing family feud, which is already intense, but then adds in forced proximity through a shared psychology project—and a surprise baby that completely shifts everything. Watching Drew step into a protective, caring role was unexpected and added so much depth to his character.

Their tension, banter, and chemistry were undeniable. It was so fun seeing everyone around them recognize their connection before they did. The emotional progression felt natural, and by the time they started to soften toward each other, I was completely invested. This book was such a pleasure to read, and I definitely need to go back and read the first one.

Rose Dioro did an amazing job portraying Harper’s strength and emotional layers, while Grayson Owens made Drew feel both swoon-worthy and sincere. Their narration really elevated the experience and made every interaction feel dynamic and immersive.

Thank you to the author for this ARC and ALC.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rivals to lovers, especially when in this case they’ve known each other all their lives, is definitely one of my catnips. Throw in a surprised baby? Yeah, I’m hooked. As soon as I got this ALC I dropped everything else and devoured it. I loved the first book in the series, Campus Crush and was not sure if Harper and Drew would be able to top Foster and Abby for me, and honestly in the end, the two couples are tied in the amount I love them.

We saw Drew last book as a carefree playboy and it was fun to see him step right up and throw all his energy into being a dad. Drew googling and watching youtube videos about how to take care of babies was adorable, and I giggled when he started practicing braiding on Harper’s hair so he was ready when that time came. So many cute girl dad moments. He’s definitely got a lot of tea parties in his future.

I also loved seeing Harper finally getting the support she needed for her music from Drew and the rest of her found family and there was a very satisfying payout for her in the end. Plus I love with a book give us some extra epilogues to know how everything turns out after I’ve spent a book falling in love with the characters. We also got a hint of the set up for book three, about Drew’s twin sister Ava and his best friend… can’t wait to come back for their story!

Cadence Keys is definitely one of my “haven’t read a bad book yet” authors.

Audiobook Review - I listened to most of the book because it was a wonderful duet narration. Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro did a wonderful job bringing Drew and Harper to life.

[Anisha Choudhury | A Literary Autopsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received both the eARC and ALC of this book for an honest review as part of an immersive reading initiative.

Campus Rival in the series CFU Hockey #2, is a masterclass in the enemies-to-lovers trope, proving that even a seventy-year-old family feud is no match for a twist of fate and a very unexpected delivery.

The Diagnosis:
The rivalry between Harper Tinsley and Drew Dumontier is baked into their DNA, fueling a legendary campus-wide war of pranks and family loyalty. However, the narrative shifts beautifully when a baby is left on Drew’s doorstep. Watching the arrogant star defenseman transform into a devoted single dad—supported by a brotherhood of hockey roommates who are total softies for the new arrival—was exactly the kind of character development I didn't know I needed.

The Anatomy:
The chemistry between Harper and Drew is combustible, but it’s the arrival of baby Rory that truly bridges the gap between these two enemies. Keys manages to balance the weight of a long-standing grudge with a sweetness that earns the HEA.

The Verdict:
If you love banter, college hockey, and the surprise baby trope (not FMC's) executed with heart and humor, Campus Rival is an absolute must-read.

P.S. A special mention to the narrators: Greyson Owens and Rose Dioro! They brought Drew and Harper's energy to life and made the immersive reading experience absolutely awesome.

A 4.5⭐ win! Don't fail to grab your copies on April 23 🗓️

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Campus Rival completely won me over 🏒🤍
I’m fully in love with Drew. The way he’s a cocky, prank-pulling hockey player at the start—but turns into the most devoted girl dad?? Aurora absolutely stole the show for me 🥹
Watching him shift from chaotic campus rival energy into a soft, attentive father was genuinely heart-melting. Nothing comes before his daughter, and that made him so easy to root for.
Harper starts off giving strong black-cat energy—guarded, sharp, not easily softened—but underneath it all, she has such a tender, caring heart. The way she shows up for Aurora felt so natural and deeply meaningful.
What really stood out for me was the maturity in their relationship. Even with a long-standing family feud, they don’t let it control their choices—they actively choose each other, and it makes their love story feel so much more powerful.
And the chemistry?? The tension-to-slow-burn shift from enemies to something deeper was so good. Every interaction carried history, frustration, and that undeniable pull between them.
✨ what I loved:
• enemies-to-lovers + family feud tension
• single dad / girl dad MMC (Aurora 🫶🏼)
• black-cat FMC with soft core
• slow burn + strong banter
• emotional growth + maturity in the relationship
• found family / friend group vibes
overall: a warm, emotional, feel-good hockey romance with real tension, real heart, and a love story that felt earned from start to finish 🤍

[Laura M Fitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received Campus Rival as an Advanced Listener Copy from the author Cadence Keys. Having listened to book 1 of the CFU series, I couldn't wait to get Drew and Harper's story.

Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Player x Musician
🎻 Family Rivals
🏒 Single Dad
🎻 Surprise Baby (Not FMCs Baby)
🏒 College Hockey
🎻Forced Proximity
🏒 Found Family

Background & My Thoughts
Let me introduce you to Drew and Harper. He's a hockey player for his college team and somewhat of a playboy, she's a smart, beautiful redhead who's studying music therapy. They both Hate each other due to a family feud, which drove their two families apart and to this day there's still tension between them. After playing pranks on each other that back fire...Drew and Harper are paired up to work on a class project - enter the Forced Proximity trope. From here they must work together to complete the college class work. All while Drew tries his best to care for his surprise daughter Rory.

The wit, banter and spice is insanely good, I found myself laughing out loud at some parts and swooning over other parts. I loved the wonderful narration job done by Grayson Owens and Rose Dorio.
Very time he said "Baby" my heart did a little flutter. Not to mention he narrates for Liam one of the other side characters who's got an Irish background and Grayson nails the Irish lilt to the american accent.

I can't wait for book 3 to come out later this year.

🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️

[Eleonore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will start out by saying that I was given an ARC/ALC copy of the story and am giving my own opinion.
I’m so happy to return to the world of CFU hockey! I read the first book (Campus Crush) and absolutely loved it, so I was super excited when I finally was able to sit down and read the next book in the series, Campus Rivals! It is absolutely worth the wait as it is such an amazing book!
During Campus Crush, we are briefly introduced to Drew and Harper as well as their incredibly strong hatred for each other (due to a family war between the two that has been ongoing for 70 years). Now, in Campus Rivals, we get to explore Drew and Harper’s story, and it is absolutely explosive! When I wasn’t laughing at some of their antics (when Harper pulled out the t shirt for Drew that said Harper’s Hype team I lost it), I was smiling at how sweet they are to each other. While their situation is like a Romeo and Juliet situation, imagine that Romeo and Juliet were in the middle of a prank war to show whether the Capulets or the Montagues were better.
I would absolutely recommend reading this book, especially if you love enemies to lovers, sports romances, and found families!
Thank you so much to Cadence Keys and her team for letting me read the book! I really enjoyed it and appreciate the opportunity!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALC Review

This was such a sweet story, I adored this couple, I mean how could I not

I actually really enjoyed this audio which surprised me, I am not an audio girly, slowly but surely though its books like this that will turn me into one

Going into this I didnt have a lot of hope that I would love it as much as I did
Not because I didnt like the blurb for it,
I did otherwise I wouldnt of signed up for the ARC/ALC, but once I started to listen I assumed this might irritate me, that them being in collage and pulling pranks on each other might just have a level of immaturity that usually irks me however that was so not the case and again I learn not to judge anything to early because in the end I couldn't stop smiling. This audio was really good, you could feel the emotions in the characters voices and you cant help but fall for their story.

These characters handle everything they are faced, they show maturity and growth that make the story what it is
I absolutely adored everything about this book from the twist on the Romeo and Juliette enemies to lovers concept to the little growing family we cant help but fall for, this group has great friendships and once again shows that friends often become your choosen family whether you want them to be or not they are there for you always

This is my first book by Cadence and wont be the last, even though this is book 2 and can definitely be a standalone I am for sure adding book one to my TBR

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the best books Ive read this year! I was soo excited to receive the ARC and ALC of this book. I absolutely loved the first book in this series, Campus Crush. After reading it I could not wait to read Harper and Drews story.
Cadence Keys did an incredible job writing this book and these characters. Everything about this book was perfect! Their found family was amazing. Everyone stepped up for Drew and Rory without hesitation. I loved seeing Drew transform from a playboy to an amazing Father and partner. I loved the way this enemies to lovers story was written. It reminded me of a subtle/better modern day Romeo and Juliet. The love between Drew and Harper was beautifully written. The spice level was perfect.
I devoured this book in ten straight hours. It was soo good I actually continued reading it through a tornado warning 😀
The audiobook 🎧 was beyond incredible! Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro did an amazing job bringing Drew, Harper and this story to life! I can not recommend this book, audiobook, and this series enough! This is easily one of best books Ive ever read. Do not hesitate to read and listen to it. You will not be disappointed! I can not wait to read the next book in this series!
🏒🥅💜💙🎧📚

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #2 in the CFU Hockey series

A modern-day Romeo and Juliet vibe, with a long-standing family feud neither side can seem to let go of.

Drew and Harper start off as total enemies—constantly pranking and trying to one-up each other. But life throws them a curveball when they’re unexpectedly paired for a project… and Drew finds a baby in his room. Since they’re forced to work together, they need to learn how to work together and to let go of the feud.

Cadence’s writing makes everything easy to picture, pulling you right into the story. It’s well-paced with great characters, and delivers a mix of steam, tenderness, drama, and laugh-out-loud moments. The moments between Harper and the baby are especially sweet and heartfelt. Both Drew and Harper show a level of maturity you don’t always see in college characters—Drew steps up without hesitation, and they’re able to put the feud aside when it matters most. His friend group stands out too, offering support instead of judgment, which adds to that strong found-family feel.

If you enjoy sports romance, enemies-to-lovers, surprise baby, single dad, forced proximity, or found family tropes, this one hits all the marks. And that little Easter egg at the end? Definitely has me excited for the next book.

[Audi Walbridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series and I really enjoyed it.

In book 1 you see glimpses of Harpers and Drews rivalry against eachother. The hatred and pranks.

The two family have been feuding for 70 years and it wasn't going to stop with the star defensiveman and musician. Prank after Prank, the tension kept building.

What starts as a winning bid for a date to use to her advantage quickly grows.

Unluckily or luckily they end up paired together for a school project.
Then one night at a party at the hockey house a small baby is left in Drew's bedroom. It all makes Drew take a step back and see the feud differently, see Harper differently.

The banter between the two is great, the maturity they show when their parents find out about them is beyond, the chemistry and spice is hot, and how Harper takes to Rory is adorable.

Their navigation to their relationship, opening up to eachother, Drew thrust into fatherhood, Harper's parents being unsupportive of her dreams, and life is done so well.

Also the narrators did so well with the audiobook- they portrayed the characters with so much emotion and brought the story to life so much more.

I can't wait for book 3.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a blend of laugh-out-loud funny, emotional and sweet.
Drew and Harper are part of an ongoing family feud that they have no idea why they're even continuing it…
The opening chapter of this story sets the scene, and I was prepared for a wild ride.
There are so many downright hilarious pranks (the reviews…), yet it starts to devolve into hurtful words and actions that have some very distinct repercussions if they go wrong…. And the banter… got me every time.

But then...
They're paired to work on a partner project together....

And then the secret comes out - Harper and Drew used to be friends, before hurtful words and reactionary behaviours got in the way!

Once his daughter is dropped on his doorstep, he's forced to grow up and make some very big changes.

This definitely runs you through your emotions. Laughter, joy, heartbreak, sorrow. The way that they were more mature than their parents was sad.

I quite enjoyed this. I was lucky enough to receive both an e-book and an audiobook copy so I was able to read and listen at the same time, which is quite an experience! The narration was great.
Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro were amazing!

[Heather Arns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced reader/listening copy review.
Sports romance and enemies to lovers are a couple tropes that are my all time favorites. This book sucked me in in the first chapter and I hated when I had to put it down, or pause the audible, to do adulting.
I loved watching Drew grow from the hockey playboy to a man that had to grow up and be a great single dad that adored his daughter. I liked how Drew really thought about how he had treated women and if that was how he wanted his daughter to be treated, as she would learn by example, so he decided to change his ways. The way this man ends up worshipping Harper like the queen she is 🫠 Harper also had her flaws, I loved how when she started to see Drew change because of his daughter, she decided she may need to change as well, that perhaps they did not have to be ‘mortal enemies’ just because of their family history.
And the way these two stand up to their parents and other family members for each other, beautiful.
And can I just say, that the audible with Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro reading as a duet was ABSOLUTE PERFECTION. ❤️

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is just something about rivals realizing that they are perfectly matched. Years of a family feud have put Drew and Harper against each other. Yet Harper decides to bid on hockey player, Drew, at the auction because why not make things difficult for him. What neither are prepared for is that spending time together actually blurs those lines. Drew might enjoy giving Harper trouble, but there is something to be said about being with her while she helps with the surprise that was left for him. Finding out he is a father to an adorable little girl was a shock. Through all the ups and downs these two end up realizing that they have fallen for this little girl as much as they have fallen for each other. Personally, for me, it is seeing Drew support Harper in her music. I love her dream job immensely and am someone that would love to see it offered everywhere because music truly brings people together. Doesn’t matter if it is listening to the Philharmonic or at a concert for a favorite band, but music can connect people in ways that speak to the heart and soul of everyone.

[Patrick Dizon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andy and Freckles forever! I was lucky to receive an ALC of this book and it did not disappoint! I loved Campus Crush, but in Rival I feel like it picked up from the very first words out of the narrators mouth and I could not get enough!

I loved in the book how the relationship was the most important part of the story and the author stayed on that track the whole way through and didn’t load the story with side characters, tons of bickering between the MMC and FMC or useless details, Cadance gave us the meat and potato’s to the story and it kept me hooked the whole way through!

This was a great read with a decent amount of spice but not so much that you got bored with it!

I loved how Rory was a surprise and it helped the story a good bit and made the traditional college jock and girl next door story a bit more high stakes with Drew wanting the best for his daughter and Harper stepped up to the plate and really supplied love for both Drew and Rory!

Do yourself a favor and read this and enjoy it!

[Only.ever.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review:
🏒Campus Rival🏒
CFU Hockey #2

By Cadence Keys

🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
🏒 College Romance

⭐ 5/5

Harper and Drew

This college hockey romance follows Harper and Drew. They are enemies due to a family feud that started many decades ago.
Both push each other’s buttons with pranks and more. But when they are forced to work together and Drew learns that he is a father when a newborn little girl is left at his doorstep, things change.
Drew struggles with Uni, hockey and the new fatherhood.
And then Harper comes to help him. She puts everything aside and shows her awesome character.
The line between love and hate is thin. So Drew and Harper begin to see the real version of the other one.
But before it can get to a happy end it has to get wrong.
Romance with laughter, spice and two characters who step up and become the ones they were supposed to be.

[Rhiannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ ARC Review ✨️ – Campus Rival by Cadence Keys - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Harper and Drew are sworn enemies, caught in a family feud that’s been simmering for decades. They’re constantly trying to one-up each other, always pushing, always clashing.... but underneath it all? That tension is smouldering, just waiting to combust.

Enter Rory.

Sweet, adorable Rory completely changes the game. Drew is suddenly in over his head, but the way he steps up for his daughter, determined to be better, to do better, is honestly so heartwarming. 😍

Harper is stubborn and fierce, always ready to give as good as she gets (and that last prank? Absolutely iconic✨️🎉). But watching Drew in dad mode, and her softening around Rory, starts to chip away at the walls between them.

What follows is a relationship that feels natural, emotional, and genuinely beautiful to watch unfold.

I loved this book, and I cannot wait to dive into the drama coming in Campus Secret!

[AW · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drew is a college hockey player trying to balance the chaos of the rink with being a new dad, and his bond with baby Rory is genuinely sweet. Harper is studying music therapy without a shred of support from her family, which makes her determination easy to root for. Their long‑running family feud leads to great banter, and watching that tension shift into something more intimate is really satisfying. The spice works, the rivalry keeps things lively, and the hockey guys doting on Rory adds a soft, charming layer.

Grayson Owens and Rose Dioro bring solid energy to the duet narration and match the emotional tone well.

This is the second book in this series that I’ve listened to and I’ve enjoyed both of them.

Huge thanks to Cadence Key and Drafting Dreams Author Services for the ARC and ALC copies!

[Jennifer Wycech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hockey romance
Enemies to lovers
Surprise baby
College romance
Dual POV - 1st person

Duet narration - Rose Dioro & Grayson Owens
Delicious narration. They both did a fabulous job.

Book #2 CFU Hockey series
Interconnected standalones

Drew and Harper are rivals from years and years of family history, a grudge that come from back when their grandfathers had a falling out and it has carried on through the generations. When Drew gets the surprise of his life Harper starts to see him in a different way. Drew makes some personal changes and these two realize their feelings for each other.

This was cute and fun to read. I got to immersive read it and it was a joy. The characters are likeable and the storyline was captivating. Cadence Keys writing is easy to follow, funny, and I enjoyed the spicy scenes.

Overall, this is a great book. Love the found family vibes.

[Rachel Maynard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to the world of CFU Hockey.

Drew Dumontier has lived next door to his nemesis, Harper Tinsley, since starting at Clark Fork University. Constantly pulling pranks on each other, stemming from deep rooted familial loathing, that begun with their great great grandfathers. A 70 year feud due to a business deal gone wrong, and a stolen bride.

But, when Drew and Harper get paired on a pysch project, that equates to 50% of their final grade, is continuing the feud worth it?

Follow along as Drew, and Harper, navigate the love-hate relationship, juggle being parents to a baby Drew didn't know about, and see if there is an end to the feud.

This book had me in tears at points, and in absolute giggles the next. A definite must read!

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ALC REVIEW✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

💗 Campus Rival had me swooning from page one 💗
A family rivalry + enemies ➝ friends ➝ enemies ➝ friends ➝ lovers arc was exactly the chaotic emotional rollercoaster my romance‑loving heart needed. The tension? Delicious. The banter? On point. The chemistry? Off the charts.

And that TWIST… absolutely did not see it coming. I had to pause my audiobook just to process.

This is book #2 in the series, but I listened to it as a standalone and had zero issues keeping up. That said, I’m 100% going back for book one because if it’s anything like this, I’m in for a treat.

Kicking off my ALC reviews with a win.

[Manda Doorley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take a spin on a “Hatfield- McCoy” family feud, place it in Montana and have it be the 4th generation of animosity between families and you have the baseline for this story. While there are some old themes of feuding families and that thin line between love and hate, there are a few new twists along the way. This is also a story about second chances, supporting each other, and believing so strongly in the other person you show them how amazing they are in your eyes.
This is a hockey romance, with so much more. A love of music, found family, and finally communication. Even with it part of the series, you can absolutely read as a stand alone.

[Marci Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a well-done duet narration, and this one really delivered. It was a fun mix of banter, chemistry, and family rivalry, with a surprising emotional depth that I didn’t expect but really appreciated.

The narrators brought so much feeling to their performances—you could truly feel what the characters were going through, which made the story even more engaging.

I received this as an ALC, and it was my first read/listen by this author. Even though it’s book two in the CFU series, it didn’t spoil anything from the first book, so I’ll definitely be going back to start from the beginning.

Thank you to the author and Drafting Dreams Author Services for the ALC opportunity.

[Kerry Glynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Cadence Keys for the eARC and ALC of this book.

This was a quick, cute, spicy read. I liked how the background was already teased in book 1 about the tension between the two families and we were able to get deeper into that in this book. The banter between Harper and Drew was perfect and I loved how the arrival of baby Rory “softened” them both. Drew’s change happened almost immediately when he matured to become a dad and Harper’s was soon to follow. This was a great story and I really liked how Cadence brought their story to closure with the epilogue (I’m a sucker for a HEA via an epilogue).
Cute book and would recommend to others!