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, Sports, Hockey Romance, 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 ✨

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited about this one. There was just something about Kirby and Lexi that sucked me in last book. And this didn't disappoint.

I loved these two. These two needed one another. Kirby was the rock that Lexi needed. Someone who could show her compassion and love. I absolutely loved her relationship with Ariella, but she needed Kylie as well.

She needed to be around people who allowed her to grow. They also helped her see things she couldn't because of her stupid ex.

Normally, I don't care for books when one of the MC's are married, but I knew going into this one what the deal was. Not to mention, I just love this author. I've literally read every book she's written, and there are so few that I didn't like. There's just something about her writing that pulls me in. And while yes, the crazy dynamic of all these families interlinked among all these series is definitely getting out of control, I also love it. I love Matthew and Max. I love that Casey is now included in that mix. I love the family dynamic so much!

I'm itching to read Kylie and Knox's book now!

[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

[RateTheRomance · Rating 2 out of 5]

great start then... nothing

this book started out absolutely fantastic with great chemistry and really likable and strong main characters. but as soon as the characters actually got together (super spicy, by the way) the entire rest of this book is just the main characters having a completely normal relationship and it's soooo boring to read.

i'm not kidding when I tell you that absolutely nothing happens in this story besides chapters and chapters of the main characters meeting each other's friends and family. there's even a set up that these two are attending a fancy poker night for charity and I thought that was an indication that something was going to happen at the poker night to add any sort of interest to this story. nothing happened except they met each other's friends.

besides one scene when the female lead's divorce becoming final towards end of the book I defy anyone who read this to tell me one single thing that happened in this story after the two main characters first hook up.

after a really promising start this book absolutely fizzled and that means I won't be reading any more of this series.

SPICE LEVEL: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
CONTENT WARNING: controlling ex, narcissism
POV: Dual - M/F - 1st Person

[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!

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 ⭐️ His name is Kirby. Yes as a vacuum cleaner. And yes it suits him.

[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.

[jada · Rating 1 out of 5]

“Not God, Lexi,” I say, “it’s Kirby. Say my name when you come.” I’M CACKLING. i’m sorry. maybe it’s just be being too judgemental over a name but KIRBY???? i couldn’t take anything this guy said seriously

i went into this for a low drama read and honestly it’s exactly what it was. howeverrrrr….

i didn’t think we were going to spend 20% of the book with her actively married and living with her husband. and the rest of it until the very end her still married on paper 🥴 i know he was an asshole and treated her horribly but it just didn’t sit right with me. she had left her husband 3 months ago (still married on paper btw) before they jump head first into a relationship almost immediately upon reconnecting. it just gave me such an ick that neither of them cared she was still technically a married woman - until he asks her to move in after 2.5 seconds and she’s all “but i’m still married!” girl shut the fuck up

also with this author i know all her books are connected somehow and the family tree at the begging taking literal PAGES gets me every time. i can’t stand when stuff is so interconnected its just too many characters to keep track of i end up skipping all the family parts of the 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!

[Melly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I had a feeling it would only keep getting better, and this one didn’t disappoint! I loved Lexi and Kirby so much. My heart absolutely broke for Lexi and everything she endured in her abusive marriage. Trent was truly awful, and I was so proud of her for finding the strength to leave.

Kirby was exactly the kind of person Lexi needed. He was everything Trent wasn’t and showed her what a healthy, loving relationship should look like. Watching Lexi realize what she deserved was so powerful.

The dual narration by Stephanie Rose and Teddy Hamilton was fantastic. They both did an incredible job bringing the characters and emotions to life. If you enjoy audiobooks, I highly recommend giving this one a listen!

What to expect:
Hockey Romance
Friends to Lovers
Opposites Attract
Cat Daddy
Second Chance at Love

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will devour every single book Natasha writes. I don’t know what she puts in them but they just hit, every single time and I love how they’re such easy, bingeable reads that I can’t put down once I start.

I adored these two. Lexi was so strong and I loved the growth she had throughout this. Then Kirby? This man was nothing but green flags and I melted for him at every turn.

The friendship they built that developed into more was so beautiful and heartwarming. The way he gave her a safe space, patience and showed her the way she deserved to be treated was everything. He might have fallen hard and fast, but he never rushed her and did everything at her pace. Loved their little “dare you” moments.

So looking forward to the next instalment to this series!

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: hockey romance, opposites attract, friends to lovers, cat daddy, sworn off love, emotional scars

[Missy Hays · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good — the kind that quietly builds its strength right alongside the heroine. Lexi doesn’t start out strong, and that’s exactly what makes her growth so powerful. Watching her find her footing, piece by piece, felt real and deeply relatable.

And Kirby? A total dream. The way he supported her — steady, patient, and present without trying to “fix” everything — was exactly what she needed. Sometimes the most meaningful kind of love is the kind that simply shows up, and he did that beautifully.

A heartfelt, empowering read that left me rooting for them both.

[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.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had an opportunity to really do domestic violence, emotional abuse, and manipulation by a partner justice and to me it fell short. Now if it helps people out there who find themselves in these situations, then that's wonderful.
However, this book fell flat in many ways to me. Kirby was fine as a man and was thoughtful but I didn't always love him. Lexi was strong and fine as a character but it was the story that failed her.

[Alaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

So, I did a thing. I read book 2 before book 1 and I already want to read book 3. Anyways, I liked getting to know Lexi and Kirby. Honestly, Kirby was absolutely perfect for Lexi and vice versa. Too bad she was unfortunately married to the biggest douche canoe when they met. Luckily, she remembered she was a bad ass and with a few words of encouragement she left that deadbeat's ass. I was kind of hoping for an engagement towards the end of the book, but I am happy that they are now living together and she's reconnected with her friends and family. Very excited for the family trip and that the next book is all about Knox.

[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.

[Ashley G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The emotionally abusive marriage was genuinely so upsetting. I'm glad she didn't immediately get with the mmc after the break-up.
Also, loved how everyone was rich for no reason.

[Bryanna]

DNF… and this is a me thing. The last few lines of a chapter were the same starting lines of the next chapter. It felt both repetitive and unnecessary and I had to DNF.

[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!