Tackled by Love

Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation #1

by Toni Aleo

He went in for the win. She tackled his heart instead.

AMBROSIA

He was never supposed to notice me.

Dawson Sinclair.

He’s the campus hockey legend in the making, football phenom, total golden-boy chaos.

I’ve grown up around athletes. I know their type.

But then he looks at me like I’m the only person in the arena…

and suddenly the girl who swore she’d stay focused is catching feelings she never planned on.

He scares me.

He challenges me.

He makes me want more than the life I mapped out.

And the worst part?

I think he already owns my heart.



DAWSON

I’ve scored a lot of goals in my none of them compare to Ambrosia Mercer.

One smile from her and I’m gone.

She’s smart, bold, stubborn, and she has this fire that makes me want to be better.

Everyone thinks I have it all figured out. I don’t.

But I know one thing for

I want her.

All of her.

And I’m going to prove I’m not just another athlete in her story…

I’m the guy she was meant to fall for.

Full of laughs, heat, podcast chaos, Sinclair family antics, and heart-crushing tenderness, Tackled by Love is a dual-sport, dual-POV romance where the girl who swore she’d never fall… trips right into the arms of the only boy she thought would never see her.

Genres: Hockey, Hockey Romance, Sports, Sports Romance, College Romance, Romance, College

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2025

About the author

WALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!

make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...

My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!

I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.

You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.

Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?

Reviews

[Giulia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hotshot."
"Hey there, heart-stopper."

Honestly, this is one of the best books Toni has written. It’s a feel-good, heartwarming story filled with banter, family, emotion, and just the right amount of heat.

The main characters are fantastic. Dawson truly feels like the best blend of his parents (Jayden Sinclair and Baylor from Clipped by Love). As a dual-sport athlete balancing football and hockey, he carries the pressure of a powerful family legacy and the expectations others have for his future. His character development was so well done. Even when he doesn’t have all the answers, one thing is clear from the moment he really sees Ambrosia—he wants her. Watching him fall first, put in the effort, make mistakes, learn from them, and refuse to give up was incredibly satisfying. Total swoon.

Ambrosia was just as lovable. She’s witty, relatable, and passionate—especially when it comes to hockey and the causes connected to it. I loved how she stands up for herself and has absolutely no filter with Dawson. She felt real and refreshing.

The chemistry between Dawson and Ambrosia is undeniable, but what I loved most is how their relationship builds naturally. They fall in love while truly getting to know each other—before they’re even officially together—and that emotional connection eventually blossoms into a powerful physical one. This may have fewer spice scenes than some of Toni’s other books, but it absolutely doesn’t disappoint. The balance of spice and emotional depth was perfect.

As a long-time Toni reader, I adored all the cameos and references to characters from previous series. The podcast segments were especially amazing, serving as a beautiful tribute to past main couples and making me want to reread everything all over again.

I’m already so excited for the next book—Ashlyn Sinclair and Phillipe Odder cannot come soon enough!

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK

[Mia Book Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled by Love reminded me—yet again—why Toni Aleo is my all-time favorite and why the Sinclair boys will forever have my heart. I’ve read their stories so many times that I honestly don’t even remember how many rereads I’ve done… and this book made me want to start all over again.

This is the first book in the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series, and stepping back into this world felt like coming home. Ambrosia Mercer and Dawson Sinclair both come from legendary hockey families, but what makes their story shine is how much it focuses on finding your own path—separate from legacy, expectations, and the futures everyone else seems to have planned for you.

Dawson Sinclair is peak Sinclair energy: talented, confident, and carrying the weight of a family name that comes with opinions. As a dual-sport athlete excelling in both football and hockey, he’s constantly being pushed to choose the future others want for him. What I loved most about Dawson is that, for once, he doesn’t have all the answers. But when it comes to Ambrosia? He knows. Watching him fall first—and then actually put in the effort—was pure swoon. He stumbles, he misreads things, he fumbles (sometimes badly), but he never stops trying.

Ambrosia Mercer was such a joy to read. Guarded, stubborn, and deeply influenced by her parents’ love story, she dreams of becoming a hockey broadcaster and pours her heart into her podcast. Those podcast episodes were absolutely amazing. Referencing previous couples by book name and number was such a smart, emotional touch—it instantly pulled me back into the history of this world and made me crave a full reread of the entire series. I didn’t even realize how many couples I’d missed until I was reminded of them this way, and some of those moments genuinely brought tears to my eyes.

The chemistry between Dawson and Ambrosia is undeniable, but what really made their relationship work for me was the balance of humor, vulnerability, and growth. Yes, there’s great spice, but there’s also depth—family pressure, fear of letting someone in, and learning that love doesn’t have to follow a perfect script to be real.

And then there are the families… the Sinclair chaos, the teasing, the cousins, the Tia. This world feels so alive and interconnected, and it reminded me why Toni Aleo’s books are such a comfort read for me. It also left me desperately hoping we’ll get more. I am really crossing my fingers for a book—or at least a novella—for Louis. And I am absolutely dying to see what will happen with Philipe Odder and Ashlyn. The setup is there, and I need those stories.

Tackled by Love made me laugh, swoon, get emotional, and immediately want to revisit all my favorite Sinclair stories. It’s nostalgic without feeling dated, fresh while still honoring everything longtime fans adore.

If you love hockey legacies, determined heroes, podcast nostalgia, and that unbeatable feeling of returning to a favorite author’s world, this book is a must-read. I cannot wait for the rest of this series—and yes, I’m more than ready to fall in love with the next generation all over again. 💖🏒

Happy reading!

Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Already done 🙂
Would I read future books by this author: Always, without hesitation.

[Nancy E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled by Love is the story of Dawson Sinclair, the son of Baylor and Jayden Sinclair, and Ambrosia Mercer, the daughter of Rowe and Valeria Mercer. We feel the pain of loss that Ambrosia (Ro) has suffered and how she has tried to move through the grief of loss. Meanwhile, we see her mom and Aunt living together again. The comic relief that her aunt brings! I laughed out loud. We feel Dawson's indecision, in not knowing which sport to decide upon, football or hockey. How he could even have been questioning the greatest sport in which to have a career, but he has generational history in hockey! Why on earth he felt so undecided made no sense to me, but he was undecided, with a true love of and drive for each sport.

I love how at the start of their story, Ro let's us know how little she respected Dawson, so we start out feeling tension there between them. He doesn't even recall their meeting at the beginning of their story. The next time he sees Ro, he's stunned by her. It was kinfld of comical seeing him practically falling all over himself to get an in with her. Love how protective of her his dad is! Since her dad was gone, Jayden could step into a protective role for her. Plus, he knew all about his son's ho reputation. 😆

We feel the struggle Ro has had throughout her life with dyslexia, and we see how it has impacted her life. Love the side characters of her instructor who sticks up for her against other instructors who want her to fail. Meanwhile, Dawson's pulling out all the stops to get her attention and get a little somethin'-somethin' going with her. 😁

Absolutely adored the peek into each of the Nashville Assassins and Bullies couples that made an appearance! So nice "catching up with," them. You don't write a series or multiple series with connected characters without knowing your readers have real attachments to those characters and wish them only the best as they go through life together. Toni understands this, and gave us, her readers, that opportunity to revisit those prior characters. I can't thank her enough for doing this!!

Everything about Ro and Dawson's story is so much fun and believable. Give it a try. I just know you will give it a five stars review like I do!

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tackled by Love launches the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series with a heartwarming and swoon-worthy sports romance. Stepping back into this world felt like coming home, full of humor, charm, and familiar energy. Toni Aleo masterfully blends slow-burning chemistry, playful banter, and emotional depth, creating a story that is both fun and heartfelt.

Ambrosia Mercer never expected to catch the attention of Dawson Sinclair, the campus hockey and football star. Raised around athletes, she thought she knew what to expect—but Dawson sees her in a way no one else ever has. As he teases her, challenges her, and slowly breaks down her walls, Ambrosia finds herself falling for a boy she never thought would notice her.

Dawson is equally captivated. Ambrosia’s boldness, intelligence, and fiery spirit awaken feelings he’s never experienced before, and he’s determined to show he’s more than just another athlete.

The romance between Ambrosia and Dawson is electric. Their slow-burn connection is filled with playful banter, teasing, and tender moments, making every interaction feel authentic and emotionally satisfying. The dual POV allows readers to experience both characters’ perspectives, adding depth and intimacy to their growing relationship.

Supporting characters enrich the story, providing humor, heart, and a sense of community. The Sinclair family antics, Dawson’s friends and teammates, and Ambrosia’s family create a lively, relatable backdrop for the romance. I especially loved that the podcast episodes referenced previous couples—it was a delightful nod to Aleo’s earlier books and instantly pulled me back into the history of this world, making the series feel interconnected and alive.

Overall, Tackled by Love is a charming, engaging, and emotional start to the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series. With magnetic chemistry, slow-burning romance, and a vibrant supporting cast, it’s a must-read for fans of contemporary sports romance and Toni Aleo’s connected universe.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson Sinclair is the whole package!!
This book gave me so many feelings I don’t know where to start. First, I love the way that Ambrosia and Dawson meet for the first time. It wasn’t the best of circumstances, but it’s something that they can look back on and learn from. Unfortunately, after that night, Ambrosia’s life takes a drastic turn due to tragedy. She proves to be a tough and strong-willed woman when she picks herself up from this loss and moves forward and comes out stronger on the other side. Then there is poor Dawson who is so confused about what he is supposed to do with his life. Everyone is trying to tell him to concentrate on hockey, but he also feels torn about playing football. You just can’t help but feel for him and how much pressure he is under. Then lighting strikes when these two see each other again after a few years and boy does the story get interesting from there. These two are like oil and water and Dawson just loves to get under Ambrosia’s skin. I love it how he calls her heart-stopper, and she calls him hotshot. Makes me chuckle every time. Poor Ambrosia doesn’t stand a chance once Dawson sets his mind on winning her over. I loved watching him try different things to prove to her that he's a changed man and she’s all he’s interested in. It was heart warming to see him embrace all the things that Ambrosia deals with and how he doesn’t hesitate to help her and never makes her fee less due to her learning difficulties. That is all anyone ever wants is to find their person to complete them, and these two are certainly made for each other.
I really liked how Toni use the Rowe Report of Ambrosia’s to give us a chance to catch up on some of her previous couples. It was cute to read about some of them and what they think of their other half. I loved this!! Thank you Toni for doing this! This book deserves more then 5 stars it is just that good!

[Midnights Bookclub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled By Love Review 🎧🏒

Another amazing book written by the Hockey Queen, Toni Aleo!

I’m a little late reading this one for my liking, but oh, it was so worth it! Here we have Dawson, the son of legends Baylor and Jayden, a super athlete, and Amora, a podcaster, broadcaster, and hockey lover.

One thing I love about every book Toni writes is how the heroes are always so, so, so completely swooned by the heroine that they practically lay on the floor for them and Dawson is no different. He’s absolutely hypnotized by Amora from the second time he sees her.

Amora is such a sweet girl. She’s carrying on her father’s legacy after he suddenly passed away, and she’s doing an amazing job. I loooved every sneak peek we got of the interviews on her podcast, and every time one appeared, it made me wish we could hear the entire episode. And oh my God, what a trip down memory lane it was seeing some familiar couples! Jordie and Kacey? Brie and Vaughn? LOVED IT!

Dawson may be unsure about which sport he wants to pursue, football or hockey, but he has absolutely no doubt about the woman he wants by his side. He’s not used to women saying no to him, so yes, at first it may have felt like a challenge. But after a while, especially when he calls his cousins and brothers to help him make paper flowers for Amora? Oh boy, that man was IN LOVE.

I loved their conversations and how they supported each other, as well as how both of them had their families by their sides. Louis was an amazing side character and definitely made me wish for a book about his story with Jennings.

This book is, with no surprise here, a 5 ⭐️ read for me. And if Toni would allow me to ask for one thing, it would be a family tree with all the couples and kids, because sometimes I do get a little lost. Other than that: chef’s kiss amazing, and I’m so excited for the next one. 🎧🏒

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way that this author will always be my go to and OG hockey romance favorite to read. “Tackled by Love” is an emotional, swoony and flirty college hockey romance that was an amazing start to this next generation series.

I have been a huge fan of Toni Aleo’s since at least 2019 and have been hooked on her books since. I love when you get so invested in a series, grow attached and later on the road… the author starts a next generation series. Ambrosia is a new character to this world and I loved her from the start. She’s smart, caring and I love how close she is to her mom and aunt. She’s at Bellevue getting her masters in broadcasting and took over her Dad’s podcast when he had passed away. I loved that she was bringing in past characters to her show to talk about their lives and how finding their someone helped their career versus hurting it. Man oh man, that Dawson Sinclair was something special for sure. He’s like his Dad and his Uncles so much but rolled into one man. He might have been skeptical in the beginning about Ambrosia’s theory but once he really got to know her, he was all in. I loved how he tried to woo her, it was so sweet. He really showed that if he wanted to, he would. They had great banter which had me cracking up more than once. But what I loved most about them was how he really listened to her. Knew that she was seen and that he was all in with her, never made her feel less for any challenges she might be or ever faced. I loved the slow burn to them being more than just friends, it was the perfect pace for them. The ending was so sweet and I’m already counting down the days until we get the next book in this series.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tackled by Love is the first book in the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series. Not only do we get the story of Ambrosia and Dawson, kids of two famous hockey fathers, we also get to revisit some of Aleo's other fan favorites through the telling of this story. I loved how this was woven in!

Dawson Sinclair comes from a hockey family and he's the son of Jayden and Baylor Sinclair. There is no doubt about that. The dilemma for him is now he has to choose whether he will go pro in football or hockey since he plays both at Bellevue. Obviously his family wants him to choose hockey, but is that the right decision for him?

Ambrosia Mercer also comes from a famous hockey family, but she wants to follow in her father's footsteps in a different way; by going into broadcasting. She has a podcast and is continuing to showcase how great love can make a great player.

Dawson has never been in love. He's spent plenty of time with women, but not in any kind of meaningful relationship. When he finally takes notice of Ambrosia, all of the ideas he had about not being in a relationship go out the window. He is going to fight for her and try to make her his. Will he be successful or will Ambrosia continue to push him away?

I thought this was such an enjoyable read! I loved how determined Dawson was, even when he made a blunder here or there! It was also fun to watch Ambrosia realize that the guy she never thought she'd end up with might just be the perfect guy for her! This was a great read!

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

I hate to admit that it has been quite a bit of time since I read a book from Toni Aleo, and it honestly makes me a little sad for all the great stories and characters I’ve been missing — especially with how often they’re referenced in the podcast episodes woven in this story.

This book starts another generation in the Bellevue universe and follows Ambrosia and Dawson, both with famous hockey fathers and maybe more in common than Ambrosia is willing to admit.

Character Highlights

Ambrosia
- Guarded and stubborn, especially when it comes to letting anyone close
- Wants a romance like her parents had, and channels that longing straight into her podcast

Dawson
- A two‑sport athlete trying to figure out his own destiny instead of the one everyone expects
- Usually gets the girls without trying, but this time he actually has to work for it — even pulling in his teammates to help

What really stood out to me were the strong family ties throughout the book. That sense of connection is part of what makes this world so comfortable to come back to. And I always enjoy a romance where the MMC actually has to put in the effort — Dawson doesn’t automatically get the girl, and Ambrosia doesn’t just fall for him because he shows up.

Finishing this reminded me how much I’ve missed Aleo’s familiar writing style. It makes me want to go back and catch up on the books I skipped.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled by Love is a must read for fans of Toni Aleo's hockey series. Reading the story was a highlight reel of all the great hockey romances that Toni Aleo has created. I strode down memory lane reliving so many great stories. I experienced wonderful couples falling in love all over again. I want to go back and read all of the stories all over again, but in the meantime I can grab Tackled by Love for a touching tease.

Tacked by love reunites the reader with the Sinclairs as Dawson struggles with a big decision--football or hockey. He has avoidance down to an art form spending more time believing Ambrosia is wrong than realizing which sport is his perfect sport love. Ambrosia, like her father, believes that a great love makes a great player. He is great without love. Just ask him.

Dawson has never known true love, only witnessed others. He has known quickies, one night stands and the proveribal one and done. Then he sees her, a goddess, a walking dessert. Ambrosia Mercer is the dynamite that will rock his world. Tackled by Love becomes a love story for the ages. Dawson had me swooning over his determination. I roared with laughter over his fumbles. My heart bled over their struggles. Tackled by Love is every emotion directing me to a beautiful, touching happily ever after.

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me why the Sinclair family and all the Assassins will always be an instant read for me. As the launch of the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series, this book felt like stepping back into a world I’ve always loved. Toni is definitely one of my favorite authors.

Dawson Sinclair has been extremely focused on Hockey and Football. Exceling at both, he can’t understand why he can’t decide which sport he should stick with. Ambrosia Mercer has been around hockey all her life and the last thing she wants or needs is a cocky hockey player who doesn’t believe in her philosophy. Suddenly picking between sports isn’t his sole focus anymore. Ambrosia has her own career to focus on and tries not to let Dawson distract her. However, if there’s one thing I know with Toni’s book is what when a Sinclair boy falls, he falls hard. Ambrosia never stood a chance.

As their story unfolds, I was completely locked into the updates from some of my favorite Assassins’ characters. These little snippets were like checking in with an old friend. I loved them and I can’t wait for this next generation to get into their own shenanigans and brand of chaos while falling in love. Both Ambrosia and Dawson are strong characters and it takes.

This book had everything I wanted- a slow burn, humor, hockey and family.

[Kimberly Holmgren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely amazing! The next generation of Bullies does not disappoint. Dawson Sinclair has a lot to live up to. He’s part of Bullies Hockey Royalty. His family is deep in hockey history, but he’s just not sure hockey is where his heart really is. He also loves playing football for the Bullies. Hockey and Football is all he thinks about until a certain feisty, hockey-talking broadcaster catches his eye. Ambrosia has been around hockey her whole life. She inherited her love for the game and her hockey themed podcast from her dad. Her insecurities don’t affect her passion for broadcasting, but she’s been burned enough to know she should just avoid love. Dawson doesn’t understand it, but one look at Ro, one word from her sassy mouth and he knows she’s the one for him. Ro thinks it’s about the chase. She’s possibly the only girl who’s ever dared to turn down the sexy Dawson Sinclair. She’s determined to stay away from him. If only it was that easy. Dawson knows his reputation but he’s determined to break down every wall Ro has built around her heart because she’s the only trophy he’s interested in now and forever. That was one hell of a secret Dawson shared with Ro. One I didn’t see coming and it absolutely blew my mind. Dawson knows it more going to be more than sex, it’s definitely love with Ro. She’s his first and his last!

[L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson is the stereotypical athlete playboy only doubled because he’s at the top of the game in both college football and hockey (Jayden Sinclair and Baylor’s kid so of course he’s next level). Ambrosia has no interest in him or his nonsense and is working on becoming a hockey broadcaster in her late father’s footsteps. Dawson has been turned upside down by his attraction to Ambrosia and is going to do everything he can to get her to date him.

I’m not into the instalove stories and this one was definitely instalove, second meeting but still. Beyond that everything was priceless. Dawson is so cute, having never actually tried to get a girl his methods are adorable and super intense. I loved getting to see cameos from so many of his cousins, giving us a little sneak peek into some future stories I hope. The spice was great! Very sex positive and body positive rhetoric and the book also handled dyslexia and social, emotional, and academic challenges with it very well. My favorite part was through Ambrosia’s podcast we got to see reminder stories of all of our favorite Toni Aleo love stories through the years and some will bring tears to your eyes to remember, I lived for those snippets! Really great story and I can’t wait for the rest of this series!

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great start to a new series by Toni Aleo.

Call it a legacy book -in a way- as it starts a child of one of the couples in the previous series, Dawson Sinclair. He is the college golden boy, a jock who is an innate athlete with intererest in both hockey and football, a playboy, never in a serious relationship, but also feels the pressure of the legacy in his choices. Enter Ambrosia, she is a podcaster, with hopes of becoming a sport announcer, but she is dislexic. This will not set her back, in fact it builds her up, she is still doubtful of herself at times, but pushes through. That all changes when she reencounters with Dawson (they have met before), as he is smitten with her and will have to work to prove that she is not just a hook up, but a chance for more.

BE ready for a steamy story, a flawed FMC who is brave and knows her worth, a MC who is learning to use his voice and intellect, and a love that starts with a slow burn and will have to prove that is made for the long run. Passion, insight, dialogue, and humour are just the perfect combo that drives this story from beginning to end!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 is the first book in the new Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series by Toni Aleo, featuring a can’t miss enemies to lovers sports romance for Dawson and Ambrosia. He’s part of the Sinclair hockey dynasty, and yet this sports phenom can’t seem to pick between hockey and football, or settle down with one girl. That is, until he is knocked off kilter by the one woman who doesn’t fall for his tricks. Jumping into this next generation of Sinclairs felt like coming home, because I remember when Dawson was born. While I was surprised by Dawson’s position on relationships, I loved watching him become beguiled by Ro and have to work for it!🤪 I was entranced by their banter, the tension, the connection, chemistry, and the chase! The whole book was classic Toni Aleo with compelling characters with relatable vulnerabilities and the most phemonemal families that will keep you coming back for more! Ambrosia’s podcast was written as the perfect vehicle for bringing some of our favorite couples back in the most creative way! Loved it! I can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with this Hotshot and his Heart-stopper, just like I have! The rest of the series can’t come quickly enough for me!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Court · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with this book! I was so excited to go back and revisit of favorite Sinclair brothers! Ambrosia and Dawson meet one night and leave if up to date if they are to meet again. Ambrosia was fully prepared to never see Dawson again, but fate had other ideas. Ow she she’s him every where and he is determined to win her over. Dawson is in a pickle, he has to finally make a decision - football or hockey? He keeps putting off the inevitable and family keeps giving their two cents, but now he’s even more determined not to think about and focus on winning over Ambrosia. Ambrosia has been through a lot and just wants to make her dreams a reality, but Dawson throws those out the window as he slowly starts to break down her walls. The banter between these two is insane, you will laugh, cry, melt, and want to yell while reading this book. Grab the tissues and chocolate, you’re going to need it. However, all the feels will be totally worth it and have you falling hard for Dawson. Dawson and Ambrosia will have you hooked and devouring this book to see what happens next! I loved their story and it’s one that will definitely stay with me long after I’ve finished this book.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled by Love is Dawson Sinclair and Ambrosia Mercer’s entertaining and captivating read. It’s book one in the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation Series and it’s off to a flying start. It didn’t take me long to become invested in the characters and their story and once I started there was no putting down.
Dawson comes from hockey royalty but he is at a crossroads regarding what sport he should be turning pro in…..will it be hockey or will it be football.
Ambrosia also comes from a famous hockey family but her chosen career is broadcasting and her specialty podcasts are all about finding love while excelling in professional sports. This has her crossing paths with Dawson because his parents are the subject of her latest podcast.
So can she convince the player who doesn’t believe in love that love and sports can work hand in hand.
This story touched me on so many levels, I fell hard and fast for Dawson and I adored the strong and sassy Ambrosia but what took this book to the next level was the podcasts featuring favourite hockey couples from previous reads. This is a well written, entertaining read with wonderful characters.

[Jill Kerich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always excited for a new Toni Aleo book but this also starts the Bullies Next Generation series and I can’t wait to get to know all the Sinclair babies!!
The first chapter of this book sets us up for what is going to be a wild ride with Dawson and Ambrosia. Dawson is certainly not at
His best as a Bellevue freshman but Ro is still captivated while not giving him an inch. Fast forward a few years later and Ro is busy announcing the Bullies games, getting her masters and hosting the Rowe Report podcast that her father started. Dawson’s busy too trying to decide in his last year of college whether to choose football or hockey as his career.
These two meet again while Ro is interviewing Dawson’s parents (Jayden and Baylor!) for the podcast and asking if true love can change your game. Dawson laughs at the idea but is instantly caught up in the beauty of Ambrosia.
And here we go!! Dawson sets out to show Ro that he has matured beyond the f-boy she thinks he is and is ready for something more. Ro is skeptical and is reluctant to spend time with Dawson so he puts himself in her path as much as possible. We all know where this is going and these two were meant to be together but the journey there is full of introspection and insecurity from both that they must work to overcome.
Truly another wonderful love story from Toni!!
Best “sub-plot” ever!!? That would be the podcast guests that are all your favorite Assassins. This was a walk down memory lane that I didn’t expect and didn’t know how badly I needed. Nothing beats our favorite couples reminiscing about their own love stories with Ro on the podcast and reminding me how much I love the couples Toni has created. I may need to start from the beginning and do a whole re-read soon!!
Thank you Toni for giving us real characters with real life issues and proving love can get us through anything! 🩷

[Jackie Ziegler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Toni has done it again. This time taking us back to the Sinclair family. Dawson is Jayden and Baylor's son. The golden boy. He is playing dual sports for Belleville and honestly doesn't know which sport he wants. His family doesn't try and pressure him but they do keep asking him to make a decision.

Ambrosia is the daughter of Rowe Mercer. She knows hockey and she knows Dawson. The cocky, hot shot hockey player that ever girl wants. She wants nothing to do with him until the night her dad passes. Dawson is there for her but she can't let him in. When he tells her that her love theory is basically a joke she wants to prove him wrong.

Ambrosia is there for him and he her but she isn't willing to cross that line yet. Dawson is determined and he will make her his. Watching it unfold is the best part.

As the story builds you learn more about each character. And you see The Rowe Report of former players and their spouses and how love does help with success.

Can they build a love just as strong?

Have to say my absolute favorite part is a scene with Ambrosia and Louis, Dawson's brother. You won't be disappointed in this story.

[Tara Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the original hockey series that was the beginning of Dawson and Ambrosia, and seeing some of those characters again makes me want to go back to the beginning. I loved how Dawson was confident and self assured, yet he was insecure about a couple of things that he didn’t talk to anyone about. Something about Ambrosia makes him want to see what could be, and that has never happened. Ambrosia is strong and independent, and her first meeting with him has stuck with her, but also coincides with a horrible part of her past.

She makes him work for a chance to get to know her. He disagrees with her hypothesis and she can’t understand why. Little by little she lets the walls down, or he knocks them down, and they both open up to each other. His secret was shocking and I appreciated how she reacted and that he was the one with the secret, not her. They were perfect for each other and I liked how they both worked through past trauma (her) and insecurities (him). Her mom and tia were hilarious.

I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeing Dawson all grown up is such a delight as he is a man any woman would be lucky to have. Hockey has always been part of his family’s heritage however he is torn between that and football as he tries to decide what path he should take while not disappointing those who love him the most. When he meets Ambrosia he knows that she is different from any woman he has known and now he goes from being chased to doing the chasing and showing her that he is the man she didn’t know she needed.

Ambrosia’s hockey background is just as strong as Dawson’s but rather than playing it she wants to talk about it. When it comes to love she is not about to settle for anything less than the rule thing and she isn’t sure that a star athlete can give her what she needs even if he is charming.

The characters of Dawson and Ambrosia are captivating and their relationship is heartwarming. They are surrounded by a great cast of secondary characters which not only includes their families but friends who are always there to guide when missteps are made and add both humor and all the feels to this enchanting story.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Great start to a series
This story was so much more than what I thought.
Thinking that it was just going to be centred around hockey, I was in for a surprise. It incorporated both hockey and football as Dawson excels and plays both, only problem is he can’t decide which one he wants to commit to.
But more surprising was that this story was centred on the guy that never thought that love was a possibility for him as he was too dedicated to his crafts.
When he finally met his match he was shocked that instantly he was totally all in, pity that she wasn’t.
This led to fun and games plus quite a bit of anger on her part that saw him trying to prove to Ambrosia he isn’t the player anymore that she thinks he is.
A fantastic story with a tonne of emotions throughout the book from fun, angst, lots of banter, even some tears leading up to the end.
I adored the characters and how hard they loved each other, enjoying the storyline and the slow burn of their relationship to the steamy parts once they finally got together.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more books in this series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elizabeth Clinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you thought the first generation of the Bellvue Bullies and the Sinclair Family was fantastic then your in for a treat when it comes to the second generation.
We meet Dawson Sinclair son of Jayden and Baylee Sinclair he is not only a star hockey player for the Bullies but he is also the star of their football team too and trying to decide if he should follow in the family footsteps or move over to football is a decision he has to make, but when he meets Ambrosia Mercer he knows that she is someone who is going to be a big part of his life and decision making.
Ambrosia Mercer is the daughter of a famous hockey player but she also has ambitions of her own to follow his footsteps into broadcasting but she also has to overcome her own struggles within her life, but when Dawson Sinclair sets his sights on her she knows that everything is about to change.
Watching Dawson try to convince Ambrosia to give him a chance it’s actually a heartwarming thing to experience and getting caught up in their romance is a wonderful feeling.

[Jessica White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say any time Toni writes a book I am so quick to read it. Every reading slump I’ve been in has been snapped by her writing, the characters, the storylines, all of it. This book is no different. I have been struggling to read as much as I would love to but getting my hands on her books and I’m guaranteed to finish it in just a few days. In this book we meet Ambrosia Mercer and Dawson Sinclair. These two meet in the prologue in quite the evening. I was crying by the end of it. The story picks up years later and you get to learn more about the two as they come together to help find themselves. These two have grown so much in these pages, loving and learning together. I love the banter and spice. I love that Toni tackles disabilities with an understanding that comes from this wild love of her characters. Read this book if you are a fan of hockey romance, happily ever afters, second chances, curvy heroines, and gorgeous heroes. This will be a re-read for me!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled by Love is the first book in a new next gen series about Dawson Sinclair and Ambrosia Mercer. Both come from hockey royalty with both their dads being former NHL players, and Dawson having many family members being professional hockey players too. Ambrosia is in grad school, is continuing to work on her late father’s podcast, while Dawson is a super senior and is on both the school’s hockey team and football team, trying to choose which sport’s draft he wants to enter. Ambrosia is a romantic, waiting for the perfect man while Dawson doesn’t believe in love. Both are goal oriented and opposites, which makes them perfect for each other. I really enjoyed this story. Both characters are strong individuals, have goals they want to accomplish, and have loving families. I loved how this book was funny, romantic, sweet and also contains disability representation, which the author is really great at portraying in her stories. I can’t wait to see where this series leads.

[Mrs F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tackled By Love is book 1 of the Bellevue Bullies: Next Generation series.

Dawson Sinclair doesn't know what hits him when Ambrosia Mercer comes into his orbit.  He doesn't chase girls, think about them constantly and want to be around them 24/7, but with Ambrosia... he does. He can't think of nothing else until she's his. He’s not used to feeling like this!

Ambrosia Mercer doesn't want anything to do with Dawson. The man has a reputation. He's a manwhore she doesn't want to go anywhere near. As the saying goes a leopard never changes its spots, and she's convinced this applies to Dawson. Her walls are well and truly up but, surprisingly to her, Dawson is knocking them down brick by brick.

Dawson had me smiling throughout. He's a man on a mission, with blinkers on his prize. Ambrosia is utterly adorable – her stubbornness and humour made me laugh out loud.  They were definitely meant to be! Loved it!

 

 

 

[Sharon Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t add this book to my kindle quickly enough and if I didn’t have to adult I would have finished it in one sitting.
Stepping back into the Bellevue Bullies world was even better than I had anticipated, and this ended up being a book that I wish I could go back and reread it again for the very first time.
Dawson was all types of amazing and I just loved everything about him. I especially loved him for Ambrosia. The push and pull between them both was outstanding, but the underlying attraction definitely shone through. But hands down the best part for me was how hard Dawson fell for Ro. Then when you add in how he fought for a relationship with her, I couldn’t have swooned any harder.
Toni has once again written an incredible story, and knowing it’s book one in a brand new series only makes me excited for what is yet to come.

[MD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Toni doesn’t disappoint with this story. The characters are so easy to fall in love with. If you have been following the Sinclair family you know Dawson, but you don’t have to know them to enjoy the story. (You will probably be driven to read them!)

Ambrosia is a new character and really brought the best to the series. I love that she does a podcast and highlights all the couples from the beginning of the Assassins and Bullies series.

Dawson is a dual sport athlete in a very hockey family. He is trying to decide which sport to focus on. When he meets Ambrosia, he starts to get focus.

When a Sinclair falls in love, they fall hard. They also fall with the confidence that makes you fall even harder for them.

I highly recommend you read this one. It feels like revisiting all former books and helps point to the things that make relationships really work.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

😭😭😭 I loved this book! Yes, I loved the main characters (we will get to that), but the true beauty was the throwbacks to our favorite Aleo couples from the past. I loved that the podcast titles matched the names of their original books. That we got to remember their love stories as a part of Ambrosia & Dawson’s. Perfection. 100% - no notes.

As for Ro & Dawson - also; perfection. I love a girl who knows her worth and then adds tax. She has already been hurt and she wasn’t not about to cave to another pretty face. And Dawson….I mean, did we expect anything less from a Sinclair???? I loved his relationship with his brother and his family. I loved how he had to recognize a change in himself before he could pursue Ro. And he walked the walk and talked the talk. Gotta love that quality in a man.

Can’t wait to get more from this series….and the next gen of the Bullies fam.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: KU