Only For Love: An opposites attract, friends to lovers, hockey romance.

Only For #2

by Natasha Madison

From Wall Street Journal and USA TODAY bestselling author Natasha Madison comes a brand new sports romance.
A spin-off from the Only One series!
When one dare makes her finally break free!

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Sports Romance, Hockey, Hockey Romance, Sports, Romance, Audiobook

466 pages, Paperback

First published January 9, 2026

About the author

When Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Selling Author's nose isn't buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she's in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It's a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn't listen to her...

Reviews

[Kristie (read_between.the_wines) · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was so goooooood. Love after abusive ex, hockey, a man who wants her to thrive on her own but will love her endlessly

Loved

*arc/alc*

[ItaPixie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only For Love is Lexi Petrov story, from shadow to light.

Lexi is trapped in a toxic marriage, the unexpected meeting with Kirby will make her open her eyes and will change her life forever.

I loved Lexi, she is lovely and strong, she only needed a little help to understand she was worth so much more than a controlling husband. Kirby is a beautiful man, patient and compassionate. Together they are so powerful, fun and attractive, and they do each other good.

Natasha Madison words got me in the feels, I cried and I smiled along the characters.

This book is so good I couldn't put it down. I absolutely recommend it.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Megan Coggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
A woman leaving a terrible marriage is a trope I eat up every time.
Enter Lexi.
The transformation from doormat wife to a cheating/controlling husband to strong woman was done well.

Oh and enter Kirby. Who is obsessed with the girl upon first sight.
Cinnamon roll NHL player to the T.
Cat dad.
His own emotional scars.
Solid guy.

Friends to lovers vibes.
He stands up for her.
Opposites attract.
Rollercoaster scene 🤣
“I dare you”

Arc review ✨

[Berry's Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC read
4 ⭐️ 3 🌶️ 4.5 🗣️
Synopsis in one sentence: After escaping a decade of a nightmare marriage, Lexi finds refuge and a second chance at happiness in the arms of pro hockey star Kirby Materson, who is determined to show her what real love looks like.

Narrators: Ava Erickson and Teddy Hamilton.

Type of narration: Duet Narration.

Fav character: Kirby Materson. He is the ultimate book boyfriend, patient, protective, and completely selfless in how he supports Lexi's healing process.

Fav trope: Hurt/Comfort / He saves her.

Fav part: The Bachelor Auction: it’s such a pivotal, high-tension moment where Kirby steps up to ensure Lexi is safe, and it kicks off their beautiful connection.

Didn’t like: The beginning was a little slow and she was married for a good chunk

Recommend it: Yes, especially if you are looking for an emotional, character-driven story.

Unique: The timeline of the healing. It doesn't rush Lexi's recovery.

Cont. series?: Yes. This is part of the Only For series (a spin-off of her This Is series).

Unforgettable: The moment Lexi realizes she doesn't have to be afraid in her own home anymore. The shift from fear to peace is written so movingly.

Kindle unlimited: Yes.

[Amanda Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Arc Review*

Kirby has officially made his way into my top book boyfriends of the year. He just loved Lexi. period. He loved her and showed her respect and supported her in every single thing she did.

My heart broke for Lexi. I have never hated a man more than Trent and I'm so glad she had her eyes open and was able to stand up and leave. I love that she didn't push Kirby away. she absolutely could have been closed off on love and never wanted to love again but she didn't. She was able to let him in and love him back.

This was probably one of my favorite books from Natasha so far and I am really excited for the rest of the series!

[Amanda hercozybookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only for Love by Natasha Madison
🎧 Dual narration by Teddy Hamilton & Stephanie Rose
Available now

When Lexi meets Kirby, she’s trapped in a painful, controlling marriage and Kirby sees her— really sees her! And then he gives her exactly what she needs: encouragement, space, friendship and unwavering support. Their connection builds slowly and intentionally and I loved watching the story unfold.
Between the banter, the dares and the easy chemistry, I was completely hooked.

💗 Hockey Romance
💗 Friends to Lovers
💗 Second Chance at Love
💗 Opposites Attract
💗 Emotional Scars
💗 Protective MMC
💗 Golden Retriever Energy
💗 Cat Daddy
💗 Healing Journey

Kirby is an absolute dream!! Green flags only, golden retriever energy and protective in a way that feels safe, steady and deeply respectful. He’s swoony without trying and emotionally intelligent without ever feeling performative. This story is rooted in patience and genuine care, and I loved every second of watching Lexi rediscover her strength with Kirby quietly, consistently in her corner.

🎧 Narration:
Teddy Hamilton delivered peak Kirby energy!! You can hear the smirk, the warmth and the protective instincts in every line. Stephanie Rose brought so much love and care to Lexi’s journey, perfectly capturing her vulnerability, resilience, and true growth. I loved this audiobook and am so glad I got this in my ears!

This series continues to deliver, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!

Thank you to @natashamauthor and @theauthor.agency for the ARC and ALC.

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m newer to Natasha’s books, but when I saw that this one had a BLACK CAT on the cover and cat daddy as the hero?! Yup. say less. And OMG, it’s easily my favorite book that I’ve read of hers yet…and it has me jumping back into her backlist to read all the family that show up in this book. I love all the interconnections, and what a great way to jump into other series.

But gasp this book was so surprisingly emotionally affecting. It’s sincere, it’s resonant, it’s tender and charming. A romance so swoony and affirming and gentle that my heart just MELTED. I love a love story where the love is healing and restorative, and Natasha delivers just that here. Lexi and Kirby have such an effortless and consuming chemistry. One that is grounded in heart and soul, in true care and compassion, in TRUE visibility. And isn’t that the purest and most beautiful form of love? Truly seeing someone- not just their beauty but their pain, their scars…and loving every single cell of them. Kirby is legit the dreamiest book boyfriend ever.

And the audio on this one?! CAT’S MEOW. Chef’s kiss production. I gobbled it up in one sitting. Props to Teddy Hamilton and Stephanie Rose for deeply emotionally grounded performances, fantastic vocal chemistry, and beautiful captures every nuanced moment- from the witty banterfilled ones to the heartwrenching painful ones.

About Only One Love
🏒Cat Daddy
🏒Emotional Scars
🏒Opposites Attract
🏒Hockey Romance
🏒Second Chance at Love
🏒Damsel in Distress
🏒Sworn Off Love
🏒Friends to Lovers

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was spectacular. As someone who also escaped domestic violence recently, I can’t put into words how honest and heartbreakingly refreshing this take was. Lexi was me when I left and the hope that I can find a Kirby is a beautiful thing.

Lexi is married to a narcissist and trying with all her might to keep him pleased. When a hospital charity auction provides the final crack in her armor she uses to protect herself, she calls her family for help. Kirby was apart the auction and having been intrigued by Lexi from their first meeting, he’s there to be a stable friend. But Kirby has a crush, and he’s determined to show Lexi that she’s worth loving exactly how she is.

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I dare you not to let anyone darken your light.”

It all started with a dare. From the moment Kirby saw Lexi, he thought she was the most beautiful woman in the world. But, he could tell something was off about her. Something was going on behind closed doors that Lexi hid from the world and Kirby was desperate to help her. Sometimes we don’t know how much our words truly affect people. And even though Kirby hoped they would, he never expected what was to come. Gosh I loved this book and am in love with Kirby! My goodness he truly is a knight in shinning armor!

I loved Lexi’s strength and bravery coming out of a really bad situation. I love the way Kirby showed her what love truly could be and I love how Natasha connects her books together because honestly Lexi’s family feels like family! Only for Love, the second book in the Only For Series, will be out January 9th and you don’t want to miss this one! I loved it!

[keds · Rating 5 out of 5]

KIRBY AND LEXI WERE PERFECT!!

kirby is so freaking sweet. he’s kind, patient, supportive and would do anything for lexi.

lexi is so strong. i absolutely love her. and she deserves the world after putting up with her horrible (like actually the worst. i hate him) ex husband. It was so special seeing her re-gain confidence in herself and find her worth.

this series has been in my top reads for 2025. i’m completely obsessed with it!!!

🐈‍⬛ cat daddy
🏒 hockey romance
🐈‍⬛ damsel in distress
🏒 friends to lovers
🐈‍⬛ emotional scars
🏒 sworn off love

thank you natasha madison and the author agency for the arc 🩷

[rickies.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you this book is an infinity star book- I mean it with my whole chest. I have been DYING for other people to read this for months. Just so it can get the love it deserves.

Only For Love will have you feeling all the emotions down to your core. It’s painfully beautiful- & it’s the best book I’ve read this year.

Kirby is an NHL player- who ends up giving back to a hospital for a “benefit auction”- basically he is auctioned off for the good of the hospital for a date. While he’s in Arizona he runs into someone he never thought he would see again. Lexi. Ariellas cousin.

The way this man approaches ALL THE THINGS- let’s just say- IM SPEECHLESS. He shows up for Lexi in all the ways- loud, quiet, silently.

Lexi knows she needs out of her marriage, she just doesn’t realize how bad it’s been.. until it’s so bad she has no other choice than to pick up the pieces, and find her light in the darkness.

Just so happens that light she’s looking for- it ends up exactly where it should have been all along. With someone who lets it shine brighter than all the others.

I love this series. I love this author. AND I LOVE- THIS BOOK.

[Lila‘s 1000Lifes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only for Love is a sports romance about Lexi, who leaves her abusive husband and falls in love with hockey player Kirby.

Okay, so I‘m in a reading slump right now and I don‘t want to rule out that it‘s just my current mood, but somehow, though this book had intriguing premises, it didn‘t quite land with me.

Lexi and Kirby were both likable characters and I was rooting for them from the start. Yet, something was always missing. I would have loved to read more about how Lexi ended up in her marriage, because she is this strong, capable woman and I just didn‘t really get it. From the moment she leaves her husband, it feels like he isn‘t even a topic anymore; she has no trouble at all starting a new life. And Kirby, while he shows her with his actions that he cares deeply for her (and yes! He did, I loved these parts!), when he talks about how he feels for her, the first thing that comes up always is how hot and sexy he finds her… meh… There is one proper, very romantic love confession at the end, but until then, I always was a bit irked by them.

While most parts of this book were solid, the things that were a little inconsistent or the things that fit a bit too well for my liking kept adding up.

As I said before, I‘m in a bit of a slump right now, so if you read the blurb and think this could be for you, please go for it. If you‘re in the right mood, the small troubles I had with this book probably won‘t even recognize to you!

I listened to this book on audio and Kirby‘s narrator was Teddy Hamilton… The voice of this man??? Yes, please! Listening to the spicy scenes? Give me more! Lexi was narrated by Stephanie Rose, who also did a great job.

Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for sending me an ARC / ALC of this book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5

Only for Love completely stole my heart. 💕Kirby and Lexi’s story is emotional, romantic, and quietly powerful — especially as Lexi finds the courage to leave an abusive marriage and rebuild her life with the help of the most patient, gentle, and supportive man imaginable. Kirby never rushes her, never pushes, and shows up with a steadiness that feels deeply healing. Friends to lovers, opposites attracting, and a love that grows from safety and trust made this one incredibly heartfelt… and yes, still very sexy. I loved the first book, but this one somehow hit even harder — easily my favorite Natasha Madison romance to date.

⸻
Tropes;
🤝Friends to Lovers
🏒 Hockey Romance
🖤 Opposites Attract
🔁 Second Chance at Love
🛡️ Damsel in Distress
🤍 Gentle Hero
🔥 Emotional + Sexy

[Jen | The Jenny Edit · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

I really enjoy this new series from Natasha and Only for Love, book 2, definitely delivered on emotion and compelling storytelling!

Kirby and Lexi’s love story is hard fought, but is it ever worth it. Lexi’s backstory of leaving a highly toxic and emotionally abusive marriage was harrowing and heartbreaking. Watching her make that transition was so satisfying.

Loved seeing all the amazing real and found family ties woven into the story — and the touches of hockey that rounded the book out so well.

Lexi and Kirby were everything i could have wanted in this story and more.

🎧Teddy Hamilton and Stephanie Rose were excellent — I loved every second of listening to their (dual) narration!

Thanks so much to Natasha for this arc and alc!

[Maddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

So i absolutely DEVOURED this book in one sitting. I mean im not kidding, headphones on… kindle in hand… did not stop until i read the very last line.

I really loved this book. I thought it was paced extremely well, especially with her being married at the beginning of the book. Speaking of, Trent can kick rocks.

I really loved Kirby and their relationship was perfection. He was exactly the man she needed, when she needed him.

[Cokiereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexi is married. To an awful man. Honestly, he's the worst. While visiting her cousin she meets Kirby. Sweet, a professional hockey player, nothing can really happen because Lexi is married. End of story?

Nope. Kirby is actually the catalyst for Lexi changing her whole life for the better. But its not an immediate crossing over. Lexi is rebuilding her life and is afraid of using her new friendships while moving up. Kirby just wants to help her and heal her.

Loved, love loved this rebuilding novel. Lexi saved herself (with a little bit of help from her friends) which is always badass.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

did M&M make an appearance? yes. would i have loved this book even if they didnt? also, yes.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

After how much I loved the first book in the series, I was so excited to read this one. Natasha just writes sports romances in such an addicting way, I finished this in one sitting.

Kirby was all green flags. He was patient and exactly what Lexi needed to find her inner strength. The book is about finding love after trauma and one character's journey to healing after years of being in a toxic marriage. It was emotional and heartfelt but still fun and sexy. Loved how their connection and friendship grew over time, a good slow burn and nothing felt too rushed.

These are interconnected standalones but definitely more rewarding to read in order. A great group of characters and a lot of appearances from the couple in book one. I need more in the future from Kirby’s sister. I really enjoyed her character.

Hockey Romance
Friends to Lovers
Cat Dad
Emotional Scars
Comfort / Healing
Damsel In Distress
Opposites Attract
Lots Of Dares

Overall a great indie author to take a chance on if you’re looking for an underrated hockey series.

“I dare you not to let anyone darken your light.”

[Shan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Natasha’s books! This is great on audio!

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Natasha for asking me to sensitivity read this one. I absolutely loved, loved, loved it. It was one of those books that I just did not want to end. Make sure this one is on your tbr for January!!

[Twins Reading Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amalgamation of flavour and heat, tenderness and fire, is what makes ONLY FOR LOVE by Natasha Madison so extraordinary!!! ONLY FOR LOVE is a remarkable analysis of courage, dignity, and recuperated freedom! Natasha Madison places her writing on Lexi with attention to detail, establishing an example of a woman whose inner strength endures years of deterioration, the plot unfolds with managed suspense, flavored by modest revelations that progressively transform Lexi's sense of self, every scenario exposes the dangers of emotional seclusion and implications of long-term separation! The pacing maintains suspense allowing each turning point to land with purpose, this romantic suspense unflolds a story based on truth, temperance, and astonishing tenderness!
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Lexi is rendered with depth and intelligence, her marriage operates as a study in psychological dominance, portrayed through subtle control and calculated humiliation! The Author Natasha Madison brings such a powerful and lyrically compulsive writing, relying instead on accumulation, which sharpens the impact! Lexi’s connections to family and community carry weight, reinforcing the theme that identity survives even under pressure, her personality unfolds through intriguing choices, each one restores authority over her own life, the construction of each subplot really carried Lexi's fabulous mindset!
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Kirby Materson the MMC is written with purpose and empathy, his presence signals attentiveness, patience, and an unwavering sense of boundaries! Kirby's role grows with constancy making his backing engaging and convincing, his interaction with the hospital and its children offers depth to his character, rooted in service and empathy, the backbone of the story is Kirby and Lexi's friendship, which builds on trust and mutual respect, their relationship evolves naturally, guided by timing and reasonableness!
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The novel's lyrical strength comes from the way it presents of recuperation through connection! Encouragement is delivered by courteous deeds, emotional confidence, and prolonged presence, emphasizing the power of shared humanity. Natasha Madison constructs her story with meticulous professionalism, allowing optimism to emerge naturally, the style of writing is structured and carefully planned, building the emotional impact! ONLY FOR LOVE is an extraordinary romance standalone book because of its adherence to true love and character morality. It's a powerful, thrilling work that celebrates repair, cooperation, and respected self-worth!

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first ARC review of 2026 and this book was fantastic! 🎉

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I can’t give up on her. I won’t give up on her. I’m going to be here and be patient as she weaves her way through whatever she needs to do. She’s the one for me, so I’m okay doing things in her timeframe. “So tell me, Lexi, what’s your biggest secret?” -Kirby in Only For Love by Natasha Madison

Such a beautiful story of healing, physical intimacy and emotional connection between the two main characters, Kirby and Lexi! This is book two in the “Only For” series and I really enjoyed the cameo appearances of the previous characters throughout this book. We briefly met Lexi in book one and it left me feeling intrigued by her story and what she was going through.

This book starts by providing Lexi’s backstory and her current situation with her horrible husband. In a twist of fate she is reunited with Kirby (they met briefly in book one) while putting together a fundraising event for her husband’s workplace. Kirby immediately recognizes the situation for what it is and their relationship begins to grow as friends. He dares her to take chances and provides her with comfort that she didn’t know she needed.

But how do Lexi and Kirby end up in a different city together, working together and falling for each other in the most heartwarming way? You will have to read this one to find out! Kirby is top tier book boyfriend material and I can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this couple on January 9th! 💗

“Come on, Kirby,” she says teasingly, “I dare you.” I will give this woman whatever she wants, whenever she wants it.” -Kirby in Only For Love by Natasha Madison

Tropes that I loved in this book,
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️‍🩹 Damsel In Distress
😘 Friends to Lovers
🥹 Emotional Scars
🔥 Instant Chemistry

[Nicki - theromancebookstagrammer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, when it comes to the extended Stone-Grant-Horton-Petrov hockey dynasty Natasha Madison can do no wrong.

There are so many books now all branching off from that very first book Something So Right (Cooper Stone will always be the OG - I love him so much) and yet the storytelling remains fresh and inspired.

Natasha doesn't shy away from topics that can be difficult to write such as a single mom on the breadline (Justin and Caroline are still one of my favourite couples in This is Forever) or in this case domestic abuse. It's written so darn well and highlights how insidious verbal and emotional abuse can be, how it erodes who you think you are as a person, and how you become a shell of your former self. The manipulation was depicted perfectly.

This is the quite frankly beautiful story of Lexi Petrov stepping out of the dark into the light and I loved that she found her strength and recognised her worth. The breaking point was written extremely well.10/10 for tackling such a sensitive issue.

Kirby was perfect as the MMC - I loved that he didn't cross the line and remained respectful despite his clear attraction. I also loved that he really stepped up to support Lexi but recognised how strong she really was.

This book could have gotten bogged down by the DA side of things but it never faltered along the way - strong writing, great chemistry between the main characters and a supporting cast I adored ensured that I stayed hooked on it.

I raced through this book but loved every minute of it particularly when Lexi hires Ryleigh - it was definitely a "we ride at dawn" type moment with girl power front and centre.

Brilliantly written and hugely enjoyable. I can't wait for the next one

5-stars all the way!

[ꜱᴛᴇᴘʜᴀɴɪᴇ ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

✧ ᴀʟᴄ/ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ! ✧

🎧 The audiobook features dual narration by Teddy Hamilton and Stephanie Rose. 🎧

𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙖 𝙈𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝘼𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙍𝘾.
★ 𝙄 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 2.90 𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙤𝙛 454 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨, 𝙨𝙤 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝙢𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬. ★
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙗𝙮 @𝙭𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙭

Kirby Materson and Lexi Yoder Petrov meet at Ariella’s baby shower. Ariella and Lexi are best friends, and Kirby and Jaxon are close friends who play on the same NHL team. Kirby is immediately struck by Lexi’s beauty, but he knows she’s married. Still, he can’t help planting a seed after noticing cracks in her marriage that everyone else seems to overlook.

𝐼 𝒹𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝒶𝓃𝓎𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝒹𝒶𝓇𝓀𝑒𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝓁𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉.

After an event Lexi was co-planning erupted into a disturbance, she finally had enough and left her husband. He was stunned that Lexi—someone he saw as a nobody—would actually walk away, yet there she was, bags packed and supported by her family. Thankfully, she didn’t have to face him in person when she told him she was leaving. He didn’t even deserve the courtesy call she gave him.

Once Lexi left Phoenix, she ended up in LA at her best friend’s place, helping Ariella and Jaxon with their baby, Jagger. Kirby finds out she’s in town at the first practice of the season, and from that moment on, everything changes. Lexi has filed for divorce and has been in LA for months. She’s had therapy helping her heal as she slowly finds her worth again.

𝙸𝚝’𝚜 𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚊𝚙𝚒𝚜𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚊𝚒𝚍 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚋𝚞𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚙 𝚘𝚗𝚎. 𝚂𝚝𝚎𝚙 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍-𝚐𝚞𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘 𝚠𝚛𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎.

Lexi and Kirby run into each other, and from there, the rest is history. Kirby fully supports Lexi as she rebuilds herself after a marriage that drained her both physically and emotionally. He’s patient with her healing, willing to step outside his comfort zone, and unwavering in his support. It’s clear they’re meant to be. Nothing scares Kirby away… not Lexi’s trauma and certainly not her family. In the end, he proves he’s worthy of being Lexi’s partner.

╰┈➤ Overall, it was good. I didn’t absolutely love it, but I didn’t hate it either. At times, it was a bit confusing trying to keep track of who was related to whom and how everyone fit together, which was something that was also my biggest gripe with the first book in the series. Since I haven’t read the other connected series, I still felt like I was piecing together the family dynamics as I went.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always Natasha makes me swoon so hard for a fictional character. The way she writes these stories always gets me in the feels! I love a great sports romance and hockey always hits the mark. Natasha as created a world that I don't ever want to leave...

Lexi and Kirby are amazing. I love the way Kirby gives Lexi the support she needs even before she really even knows that she needs it. Kirby is so caring that I swooned over him. He has this charismatic way about him and he is so easy to like. Lexi is finally standing up for herself. Even though it took her far too long, better late than never. I really enjoyed seeing her character grow a backbone and find herself.

I loved this story. I loved the cameos from previous stories. I am hooked into this world and I am good to stay here forever.

Stephanie Rose and Teddy Hamilton narrate this in dual. I felt like this one was done perfectly. I loved the way Stephanie spoke when reading this. The way she did the males voice when reading her chapter, I loved it. Teddy is amazing as always. I love his voice and the way he reads. I feel like he dives right into the stories and takes me with.

I need more of this series... I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Laura Ratushny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lexi has isolated herself from her family, given up her dreams, shrunk herself down, and changed just about everything about herself... all for a man, her husband. Kirby, instantly recognizing the signs that Lexi is in an abusive relationship, makes it his mission to befriend Lexi and ends up giving her just the strength she needed to get away.

This story blew me away with how tender and sweet it was. Kirby really set out to be the friend Lexi needed despite his attraction to her. He gave her space to be strong for herself and reminded her frequently that she was her own hero! It was so refreshing to have a protective MMC who isn't just all growls and death threats. And honestly Lexi's family showing up in ALL those ways was perfect!

The lighthearted banter between Kirby and Lexi contrasted the darker themes of abuse perfectly and made this book feel fun and cozy. I'm also a sucker for an overprotective dad and absolutely LOVED all the scenes that involved Lexi's father!

Natasha Madison's spice always hits just right and this book is no exception. Teddy Hamilton and Stephanie Rose were fantastic choices for this dual narration!

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only For Love is book #2 of the spin-off from the Only One series! It features Lexi Petrov and Kirby Materson.

This next addition to the Only One series is much different from many of the other sports romance stories that Natasha writes. There is a much more emotional element to it. The story line deals with intense issues that can occur within a marriage. I thought she did a great job in laying out the story. The timeline explains that sometimes you wake up and it's ten years later...the hold it can take on you. And you are not sure how it got to this point.

There are of course cameos from the family which is always fun! The pace was steady and mostly focused on Lexi and Kirby. Lexi is beautiful both inside and out. Kind, caring and generous. Kirby is amazing! Thoughtful, chivalric, fun and HOT!!

I am enjoying the Only One series. Looks like Kirby's sister Kylie is next in Only For Him!

3.75 stars

#AuthorNatashaMadison #OnlyFor #OnlyForLove #OnlyFOrTonight #KirbyAndLexi #sportsromance #spicy #steamy #mustread

[Rachel Nahabedian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: Loved it

This was my first read of 2026, and what a strong way to start the year. The Only For series by @natashamauthor continues to deliver nothing but green-flag MMCs and no third-act breakups. And honestly? These men just keep getting better. A major highlight was getting a healthy dose of Jax and Ari from book one. Seeing them still so happy was such a joy.

Lexi’s story hit far closer to home than I expected. At first, I worried it might be triggering, but instead, it ended up healing a small piece of me. Knowing firsthand how difficult it is to be married to a narcissist (and how hard it can be to leave) I was incredibly proud of Lexi. I cried with her, felt her shame and uncertainty, and also celebrated every small victory. Watching her realize that asking for help and leaning on family isn’t a weakness was deeply cathartic.

Kirby is the mayor of Green Flag City. Full stop. The way he stood quietly behind Lexi giving her space to grow and shine while always being there to catch her if she fell made my heart ache in the best way. He saw through her lies from the very beginning and wanted nothing more than to stand beside her, whether that meant being her partner or simply holding her purse. He didn’t want to change who she was. He wanted to help her shed the shell she’d been forced into and become the confident, independent woman he always knew she was.

The audiobook narration was phenomenal. Teddy Hamilton was perfectly cast as the light-hearted, golden-retriever hero, while Stephanie Rose beautifully captured Lexi’s vulnerability and pain, allowing her growth into the confident queen she becomes to feel natural and earned.

Thank you, Natasha, for this series. I truly hope it continues. And thank you to @theauthor.agency for the ALC.

[Sunny Shelly Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Lexi and Kirby's story! This book hit harder than some of Natasha Madison's other books because of the sensitive topics involved in Lexi's abusive marriage and Kirby's childhood. But Natasha Madison handled it so well and delivered a lovely, heartfelt story.

I have personal experience with being isolated from family/friends while in a toxic relationship, so Lexi's journey back to rediscovering herself really resonated with me. Kirby was the perfect match for her as they started out as friends before becoming anything more. He was patient and kind and supported her from the wings, ultimately giving her the courage to finally leave her situation — without even knowing how much of an impact he had on her life.

Narrators Teddy Hamilton and Stephanie Rose did a great job with this book. Not only were they spectacular with the heavy stuff that both of these characters dealt with, but they perfectly captured the more playful moments between them, like the running dares.

Also, I loved pitbull Ryleigh as Lexi's divorce attorney and the cameo from Casey Barnes!

I think this book may be one of my favorites in NM's hockey world! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

[Patty Baumeister · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Book Review
Only For Love
A Novel Written By Natasha Madison
Fiction - Romance
Published January 2026
358 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is the second book in the author’s Only For Series. This is a sports romance. The male main character is a hockey player. Hockey is not the main focus of this book.

I loved this book. The characters are wonderful. Kirby Materson knows how to treat a woman. Lexi Petrov is so fortunate that she caught his eye.

Lexi is in a terrible marriage with an awful husband. Kirby notices this in her and gives her the strength to leave her husband and build a new life.

I loved watching the two main characters become friends and then lovers.

Be aware of the trigger warnings before reading.

“”Everything you’ve ever wanted is sitting on the other side of fear.”