What do you think?
Rate this book
Checking from Behind
HE'S THE COCKY ROOKIE NEXT DOOR. SHE'S THE WOMAN HE'S NOT SUPPOSED TO WANT.
Marshall Hayes came to Boston for one reason — to play hockey. As the Enforcers' newest first-round pick, he's got everything to prove and nothing to lose. He didn't move into a quiet gated cul-de-sac to deal with a sharp-tongued interior designer and her Great Dane.
And he definitely didn't plan to kiss her against the front of his house at midnight.
Lillah Winters left Texas to start over. New city. New career. New rules — and the most important one is: never, ever date another athlete. So when her infuriating new neighbor pounds on her door at eleven at night accusing her dog of trespassing, she does what any self-respecting Texan would do. She puts him in his place.
Then she lets him kiss her.
Now Marshall is everywhere — in her driveway, in her arena box, in her bed — and the spark between them is hotter than anything either of them has ever felt. But Lillah's past isn't done with her, and when her dangerous ex shows up uninvited, Marshall is going to have to decide whether some fights are worth picking after all. Even the ones that could cost him his entire career.
Checking from Behind is a steamy, scorching enemies-to-lovers next-door-neighbor hockey romance with: a small-town hero with a heart of gold, a sassy heroine with a healing arc, an absolute sweetheart of a Great Dane named Cooper, on-page heat, an HEA, and absolutely no cheating.
Marshall Hayes came to Boston for one reason — to play hockey. As the Enforcers' newest first-round pick, he's got everything to prove and nothing to lose. He didn't move into a quiet gated cul-de-sac to deal with a sharp-tongued interior designer and her Great Dane.
And he definitely didn't plan to kiss her against the front of his house at midnight.
Lillah Winters left Texas to start over. New city. New career. New rules — and the most important one is: never, ever date another athlete. So when her infuriating new neighbor pounds on her door at eleven at night accusing her dog of trespassing, she does what any self-respecting Texan would do. She puts him in his place.
Then she lets him kiss her.
Now Marshall is everywhere — in her driveway, in her arena box, in her bed — and the spark between them is hotter than anything either of them has ever felt. But Lillah's past isn't done with her, and when her dangerous ex shows up uninvited, Marshall is going to have to decide whether some fights are worth picking after all. Even the ones that could cost him his entire career.
Checking from Behind is a steamy, scorching enemies-to-lovers next-door-neighbor hockey romance with: a small-town hero with a heart of gold, a sassy heroine with a healing arc, an absolute sweetheart of a Great Dane named Cooper, on-page heat, an HEA, and absolutely no cheating.
199 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2026
About the author
S.L. Sterling
76 books3,631 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario.
An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.
When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.
In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.
Amazon: https://geni.us/SterlingAmazon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearomance
Instagram: https://geni.us/SLSterlingInstagram
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLSterlingTwitter
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLSterlingBookbub
Sterlings Silver Sapphires: https://geni.us/SapphiresReaderGroup
Newsletter Signup: https://geni.us/GRNewsletterSignUp
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SterlingGoodreads
Tiktok: https://geni.us/slsterlingtiktok
An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.
When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.
In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.
Amazon: https://geni.us/SterlingAmazon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearomance
Instagram: https://geni.us/SLSterlingInstagram
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLSterlingTwitter
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLSterlingBookbub
Sterlings Silver Sapphires: https://geni.us/SapphiresReaderGroup
Newsletter Signup: https://geni.us/GRNewsletterSignUp
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SterlingGoodreads
Tiktok: https://geni.us/slsterlingtiktok
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 10, 2026
This was such a good read. Marshall moves into his new house in Boston before the seasons starts. Lillah is an interior designer with a Great Dane who lives next door. On Marshalls first day; he steps in a pile of dog poo and slips and falls. He immediately goes pounding on Lillah's door and complains that her dog pooped in his front yard. He's a bit indignant when she does her best to set her straight and tells him that her dog is let out in her fenced back yard and there are several other dogs in the neighborhood. The meetings between these two are hilarious and a bit of a slow burn.. Their relationship develops in the funniest and sweetest ways.
July 15, 2026
Where to start? At first, I didn’t like Marshall when he immediately blamed his neighbor (w/o proof) that her dog pooped in his yard. Later on, I grew to really like him. I love how he supported Lillah, not only with her dreams, but also through her still getting over the trauma that her ex put her through. He wound up being such a great green flag MMC, ensuring that he put Lillah first. I love that Lillah didn’t just give in to Marshall and that she made him work for everything they had together. Such a great couple.
I loved this book! Marshall and Lillah are neighbors, essentially enemies, until Marshall owns up to his mistakes. Their slow burn relationship was what I needed. They were able to build and develop their feelings before jumping in.
I love a man who can admit that he is wrong! Lillah has been through some traumatic incidents with her ex and Marshall winds up being there to support her every step of the way for her to get complete closure.
If you're interested in a short hockey romance (under 200 pages), check this out!
I loved this book! Marshall and Lillah are neighbors, essentially enemies, until Marshall owns up to his mistakes. Their slow burn relationship was what I needed. They were able to build and develop their feelings before jumping in.
I love a man who can admit that he is wrong! Lillah has been through some traumatic incidents with her ex and Marshall winds up being there to support her every step of the way for her to get complete closure.
If you're interested in a short hockey romance (under 200 pages), check this out!
July 19, 2026
“Boston Enforcers Series.” This is a steamy, scorching enemies-to-lovers next-door-neighbor hockey romance with: a small-town hero with a heart of gold, a sassy heroine with a healing arc, an absolute sweetheart of a Great Dane named Cooper.
Marshall Hayes is the first round draft pick for the NHL team, the Boston Enforcers. This is his rookie year! On the advice of friends, he buys a house in a gated community, with a guard at the entrance, to ensure privacy. “The house was empty. I had shipped nothing yet aside from the small trailer I'd pulled behind my truck.” Later that evening a few of his new teammates turn up to help him set up the house and have a few beers to welcome him to the team. Outside saying goodbye to the guys, he steps in a pile of fresh dog droppings….fuming, he automatically assumes that it is the large dog next door. His teammate tell him to sleep on it, but he does not listen….
Lillah Winters packed up her life in Texas and moved to Boston….away from her both mentally and physically abusive ex boyfriend. Now she is starting a new career as an interior designer, a new life, with rules. Number one rule….no professional athletes. “My life had changed so much in a year. A year ago, I'd lived in Dallas, in a condo that I didn't own….” Startled by someone literally banging on her door at eleven clock at night is her new next door neighbour accusing her dog Cooper of using his front yard as his own personal toilet! Her hands were shaking….”Stop it. He's just an idiot neighbor. It’s not the same thing.”
Now, everywhere she goes, he is there….her new hot next door neighbour! After admitting to his new teammates what he had done, without evidence, was to get a ring doorbell so that he would have photographic evidence. So far they had had two encounters and two disasters. When Lillah comes over to ask him to turn down the music, he kisses her…..she kisses him back.
The more time they spend together, the more she begins to know the real Marshall. Underneath his cocky rookie persona is a wonderful and thoughtful man. A man that protects her, a man that listens to her, a man that actually cares about what she has to say. A man that she is attracted to….the man she wants to kiss her again. “I pressed my lips to hers and felt her melt. The tension in her shoulders released, and her body softened against mine. Her hand came up to my chest, and this time she didn't push me away; she gripped my shirt and pulled me closer. Our kiss deepened. Her mouth opened beneath mine. She tasted like wine. My other hand found her waist through the bathrobe, feeling the soft terry cloth under my fingers….”
You will fall in love with Marshall and Lillah, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! At times you will laugh, you will cry, get angry and frustrated - most of all, you will love the twists! This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more.
“The kiss went from zero to something else entirely. Her mouth opened under mine and I felt it everywhere, in my chest, in my stomach, in the base of my spine. Then as I deepened the kiss, I heard the small sound she made in the back of her throat. Not quite a moan, but close enough to make my blood move faster than it had all night, including when the crowd roared after my first goal.”
This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story, with all the ups, the downs, the friendship, the heartaches and most of all, what love can overcome. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
Marshall Hayes is the first round draft pick for the NHL team, the Boston Enforcers. This is his rookie year! On the advice of friends, he buys a house in a gated community, with a guard at the entrance, to ensure privacy. “The house was empty. I had shipped nothing yet aside from the small trailer I'd pulled behind my truck.” Later that evening a few of his new teammates turn up to help him set up the house and have a few beers to welcome him to the team. Outside saying goodbye to the guys, he steps in a pile of fresh dog droppings….fuming, he automatically assumes that it is the large dog next door. His teammate tell him to sleep on it, but he does not listen….
Lillah Winters packed up her life in Texas and moved to Boston….away from her both mentally and physically abusive ex boyfriend. Now she is starting a new career as an interior designer, a new life, with rules. Number one rule….no professional athletes. “My life had changed so much in a year. A year ago, I'd lived in Dallas, in a condo that I didn't own….” Startled by someone literally banging on her door at eleven clock at night is her new next door neighbour accusing her dog Cooper of using his front yard as his own personal toilet! Her hands were shaking….”Stop it. He's just an idiot neighbor. It’s not the same thing.”
Now, everywhere she goes, he is there….her new hot next door neighbour! After admitting to his new teammates what he had done, without evidence, was to get a ring doorbell so that he would have photographic evidence. So far they had had two encounters and two disasters. When Lillah comes over to ask him to turn down the music, he kisses her…..she kisses him back.
The more time they spend together, the more she begins to know the real Marshall. Underneath his cocky rookie persona is a wonderful and thoughtful man. A man that protects her, a man that listens to her, a man that actually cares about what she has to say. A man that she is attracted to….the man she wants to kiss her again. “I pressed my lips to hers and felt her melt. The tension in her shoulders released, and her body softened against mine. Her hand came up to my chest, and this time she didn't push me away; she gripped my shirt and pulled me closer. Our kiss deepened. Her mouth opened beneath mine. She tasted like wine. My other hand found her waist through the bathrobe, feeling the soft terry cloth under my fingers….”
You will fall in love with Marshall and Lillah, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! At times you will laugh, you will cry, get angry and frustrated - most of all, you will love the twists! This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more.
“The kiss went from zero to something else entirely. Her mouth opened under mine and I felt it everywhere, in my chest, in my stomach, in the base of my spine. Then as I deepened the kiss, I heard the small sound she made in the back of her throat. Not quite a moan, but close enough to make my blood move faster than it had all night, including when the crowd roared after my first goal.”
This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story, with all the ups, the downs, the friendship, the heartaches and most of all, what love can overcome. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
July 14, 2026
Checking from Behind was everything I want in a hockey romance—funny, flirty, emotional, and packed with chemistry that practically jumped off the page. 🏒❤️
From their very first encounter, Marshall and Lillah had me smiling. What starts as a disagreement over a wandering Great Dane quickly turns into an irresistible battle of wits, and I loved every sarcastic exchange between them.
Marshall completely won me over.
Confident.
Charming.
Determined.
Beneath his cocky rookie exterior is a genuinely kind man with the biggest heart. Watching him fall harder and harder for Lillah was one of my favorite parts of the story. He isn't just protective—he truly sees her, supports her, and reminds her that she deserves happiness after everything she's been through.
Lillah was such a wonderful heroine. She's rebuilding her life after a painful past, determined not to make the same mistakes again, and I admired how strong and independent she remained while still allowing herself to slowly trust someone new.
The enemies-to-lovers romance was so much fun.
The banter.
The stolen kisses.
The next-door-neighbor tension.
Every interaction had me grinning, and the chemistry between them never let up.
And can we please talk about Cooper? 🐶
The lovable Great Dane absolutely stole every scene he was in. He added so much warmth, humor, and charm to the story that I couldn't help but adore him.
As the story progresses, the romance is balanced with genuine emotional depth. Lillah's past and the arrival of her dangerous ex add real stakes, making Marshall's unwavering support even more meaningful. Their relationship isn't just built on attraction—it's built on trust, respect, and choosing each other when life gets difficult.
✨ If you love:
🏒 Hockey romance
❤️ Enemies to lovers
🏡 Next-door neighbors
🔥 Sizzling chemistry
🐶 Adorable Great Dane
🛡️ Protective hero
💛 Emotional healing
🏒 Happily ever after
Checking from Behind is the perfect mix of humor, heart, romance, and hockey. With unforgettable banter, lovable characters, and a hero who's impossible not to fall for, this was an addictive read that had me smiling from beginning to end. 🏒❤️✨
From their very first encounter, Marshall and Lillah had me smiling. What starts as a disagreement over a wandering Great Dane quickly turns into an irresistible battle of wits, and I loved every sarcastic exchange between them.
Marshall completely won me over.
Confident.
Charming.
Determined.
Beneath his cocky rookie exterior is a genuinely kind man with the biggest heart. Watching him fall harder and harder for Lillah was one of my favorite parts of the story. He isn't just protective—he truly sees her, supports her, and reminds her that she deserves happiness after everything she's been through.
Lillah was such a wonderful heroine. She's rebuilding her life after a painful past, determined not to make the same mistakes again, and I admired how strong and independent she remained while still allowing herself to slowly trust someone new.
The enemies-to-lovers romance was so much fun.
The banter.
The stolen kisses.
The next-door-neighbor tension.
Every interaction had me grinning, and the chemistry between them never let up.
And can we please talk about Cooper? 🐶
The lovable Great Dane absolutely stole every scene he was in. He added so much warmth, humor, and charm to the story that I couldn't help but adore him.
As the story progresses, the romance is balanced with genuine emotional depth. Lillah's past and the arrival of her dangerous ex add real stakes, making Marshall's unwavering support even more meaningful. Their relationship isn't just built on attraction—it's built on trust, respect, and choosing each other when life gets difficult.
✨ If you love:
🏒 Hockey romance
❤️ Enemies to lovers
🏡 Next-door neighbors
🔥 Sizzling chemistry
🐶 Adorable Great Dane
🛡️ Protective hero
💛 Emotional healing
🏒 Happily ever after
Checking from Behind is the perfect mix of humor, heart, romance, and hockey. With unforgettable banter, lovable characters, and a hero who's impossible not to fall for, this was an addictive read that had me smiling from beginning to end. 🏒❤️✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Marshall Hayes was making it big in NHL hockey as he had been drafted in the 1st round by the Boston Enforcers. He took the advice of some family and bought a house in a gated community. What he wasn’t expecting though was to clash right away with his neighbor over something she, okay her dog, didn’t do. He also may or may not have wanted to kiss her, but there was definitely no denial in the connection between them. Especially since she managed to make her way not only into his heart but also his mind. When she was there he played the best game possible. He knew he had a lot of apologizing to do but he was willing to do anything in order to make this relationship with Lillah work.
Lillah Winters had to leave Texas and fast. Her ex was a douche, well he was beyond that and shook her up so badly she never imagined she could fall in love again. She was settling in Boston, had a new house, new career, new dog and new rules. The main one being men were not allowed in her life. And that rule was broken when the new neighbor, Marshall moved in and she couldn’t get him out of her head, her heart or her house. It didn’t help matters that her dog fell in love with him first. Over time he started getting under her skin and she realized that not every guy was her ex, the WAGs for the Enforcers were awesome and Marshall might have just helped her out on her new career with interior design. It was a chance but it could be worth it.
This is an awesome page turning book, I read it from start to finish in one sitting. So make sure you give yourself enough time to do it. It did deal with some issues that people have but it did it in such a tactful way it was perfect. Not everyone, especially a lot of athletes that make it to the big leagues have it all put together, but Marshall did and that made the book even better. A new series by SL Sterling the Boston Enforcers and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
Lillah Winters had to leave Texas and fast. Her ex was a douche, well he was beyond that and shook her up so badly she never imagined she could fall in love again. She was settling in Boston, had a new house, new career, new dog and new rules. The main one being men were not allowed in her life. And that rule was broken when the new neighbor, Marshall moved in and she couldn’t get him out of her head, her heart or her house. It didn’t help matters that her dog fell in love with him first. Over time he started getting under her skin and she realized that not every guy was her ex, the WAGs for the Enforcers were awesome and Marshall might have just helped her out on her new career with interior design. It was a chance but it could be worth it.
This is an awesome page turning book, I read it from start to finish in one sitting. So make sure you give yourself enough time to do it. It did deal with some issues that people have but it did it in such a tactful way it was perfect. Not everyone, especially a lot of athletes that make it to the big leagues have it all put together, but Marshall did and that made the book even better. A new series by SL Sterling the Boston Enforcers and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Checking from Behind was a fun, fast-paced hockey romance with great banter, lovable characters, and plenty of heart.
Marshall and Lillah's first meeting is definitely one of the funniest and most awkward meet-cutes I've ever read, and it involves dog poop! 😂 He instantly becomes "the Dog Poop Guy," and it sets the tone perfectly for their enemies-to-lovers journey. As they get to know each other, the story evolves into one about trust, healing, and learning to let someone in after being hurt.
Marshall, a hockey player, is confident without being arrogant, incredibly patient, and supportive of Lillah as she works through the trauma left behind by her abusive ex. He wants to protect her without interfering in her life, and when he makes mistakes (not intentionally anyway), he listens, learns, and genuinely tries to do better. I also loved his supportive family.
Lillah's healing journey was inspiring and heartfelt. She isn't magically "fixed" by love, and her reactions to certain situations make perfect sense given everything she's been through. She slowly regains her confidence and learns to trust again… I loved her friend Mila!! Best “best friend” ever.
The pacing is quick, making this an easy and enjoyable read. The author does a great job balancing the hockey elements, humor, romance, and emotional moments. Cooper, the adorable Great Dane, absolutely steals every scene he's in, and when you think about it, he's the reason Marshall and Lillah meet in the first place, even though “he didn’t do that”!
Marshall and Lillah are easy to root for and their story made me smile. This is definitely worth picking up if you're looking for a quick, fun hockey romance with heart. I'm looking forward to reading more about the Boston Enforcers in the upcoming books!
Checking from Behind was a fun, fast-paced hockey romance with great banter, lovable characters, and plenty of heart.
Marshall and Lillah's first meeting is definitely one of the funniest and most awkward meet-cutes I've ever read, and it involves dog poop! 😂 He instantly becomes "the Dog Poop Guy," and it sets the tone perfectly for their enemies-to-lovers journey. As they get to know each other, the story evolves into one about trust, healing, and learning to let someone in after being hurt.
Marshall, a hockey player, is confident without being arrogant, incredibly patient, and supportive of Lillah as she works through the trauma left behind by her abusive ex. He wants to protect her without interfering in her life, and when he makes mistakes (not intentionally anyway), he listens, learns, and genuinely tries to do better. I also loved his supportive family.
Lillah's healing journey was inspiring and heartfelt. She isn't magically "fixed" by love, and her reactions to certain situations make perfect sense given everything she's been through. She slowly regains her confidence and learns to trust again… I loved her friend Mila!! Best “best friend” ever.
The pacing is quick, making this an easy and enjoyable read. The author does a great job balancing the hockey elements, humor, romance, and emotional moments. Cooper, the adorable Great Dane, absolutely steals every scene he's in, and when you think about it, he's the reason Marshall and Lillah meet in the first place, even though “he didn’t do that”!
Marshall and Lillah are easy to root for and their story made me smile. This is definitely worth picking up if you're looking for a quick, fun hockey romance with heart. I'm looking forward to reading more about the Boston Enforcers in the upcoming books!
Review of advance copy
This was such an enjoyable hockey romance with the perfect mix of chemistry, humor, and emotional depth. From their first late-night confrontation over a wandering Great Dane, Marshall and Lillah's relationship is full of banter and undeniable tension.
What I loved most was Marshall. Instead of giving up when Lillah kept her guard up, he consistently showed up for her with patience, kindness, and respect. He never tried to force her to move on from her past or dismissed her fears. He let his actions speak louder than words, proving that not all men are the same. Watching him slowly restore Lillah's faith in love and healthy relationships was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Lillah was easy to understand. After everything she'd been through, her hesitation to trust another athlete felt realistic, and I appreciated that her healing wasn't rushed. Their romance developed naturally, making every milestone in their relationship feel earned.
The suspense involving Lillah's ex added just enough tension without overshadowing the romance, and it highlighted Marshall's protective nature while showing that real strength comes from respect rather than control.
Overall, this was a heartwarming, swoony romance with lovable characters, great chemistry, and a satisfying emotional journey. If you enjoy hockey romances with a patient, genuinely caring hero and a heroine learning to trust again, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What I loved most was Marshall. Instead of giving up when Lillah kept her guard up, he consistently showed up for her with patience, kindness, and respect. He never tried to force her to move on from her past or dismissed her fears. He let his actions speak louder than words, proving that not all men are the same. Watching him slowly restore Lillah's faith in love and healthy relationships was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Lillah was easy to understand. After everything she'd been through, her hesitation to trust another athlete felt realistic, and I appreciated that her healing wasn't rushed. Their romance developed naturally, making every milestone in their relationship feel earned.
The suspense involving Lillah's ex added just enough tension without overshadowing the romance, and it highlighted Marshall's protective nature while showing that real strength comes from respect rather than control.
Overall, this was a heartwarming, swoony romance with lovable characters, great chemistry, and a satisfying emotional journey. If you enjoy hockey romances with a patient, genuinely caring hero and a heroine learning to trust again, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 of 5 Stars
Okay, picture this: a cocky NHL rookie next door, a fierce interior designer with a strict 'no-athlete' rule, and a 100-pound Great Dane who completely ignores the property line. That is exactly how Checking from Behind kicks off, and honestly, I was hooked from the very first page.
I ended up flying through this in a single sitting because this is just such a fun, easy read. The whole setup starts with this hilarious, incredibly awkward front-lawn confrontation over the dog, which immediately sets up the absolute best enemies-to-lovers tension. The banter between Marshall and Lillah had me smiling the entire time, but what really won me over was how their relationship actually developed.
Marshall is such a breath of fresh air. You expect the cocky rookie athlete, but he turns out to be this massive green flag. He is so protective and patient, but what I love most is that he never tries to take over or control Lillah. He just consistently shows up, respects her boundaries, and supports her as she heals from a really toxic past.
Lillah herself is so resilient and easy to root for, and her dog… Cooper literally stole the show. The tension between them is absolutely scorching, and the book does a beautiful job of balancing those laugh-out-loud funny moments with some real, heartfelt emotional depth and great heat. If you guys are looking for a fast, sweet sports romance where the hero absolutely falls first, you definitely need to add this to your list.
Huge thank-you to S.L. Sterling for my ARC! All thoughts are completely my own.
Okay, picture this: a cocky NHL rookie next door, a fierce interior designer with a strict 'no-athlete' rule, and a 100-pound Great Dane who completely ignores the property line. That is exactly how Checking from Behind kicks off, and honestly, I was hooked from the very first page.
I ended up flying through this in a single sitting because this is just such a fun, easy read. The whole setup starts with this hilarious, incredibly awkward front-lawn confrontation over the dog, which immediately sets up the absolute best enemies-to-lovers tension. The banter between Marshall and Lillah had me smiling the entire time, but what really won me over was how their relationship actually developed.
Marshall is such a breath of fresh air. You expect the cocky rookie athlete, but he turns out to be this massive green flag. He is so protective and patient, but what I love most is that he never tries to take over or control Lillah. He just consistently shows up, respects her boundaries, and supports her as she heals from a really toxic past.
Lillah herself is so resilient and easy to root for, and her dog… Cooper literally stole the show. The tension between them is absolutely scorching, and the book does a beautiful job of balancing those laugh-out-loud funny moments with some real, heartfelt emotional depth and great heat. If you guys are looking for a fast, sweet sports romance where the hero absolutely falls first, you definitely need to add this to your list.
Huge thank-you to S.L. Sterling for my ARC! All thoughts are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyable hockey story
This is book 1 of the Boston Enforcers series and the new rookie Marshall has just come to town to prove his worth to the team.
Welcomed by his teammates and shown the ropes Marshall is soon settling into his new home and team.
However, a few run ins with his next door neighbour Lillah and her Great Dane Cooper, has them both disliking each other, even though the chemistry between themselves is hot.
Marshall later realises that he was in the wrong and owes Lillah an apology, which once done soon leads to them giving into temptation and spending a lot of time together.
This was a quick read with a bit of drama, some funny moments, plus steamy scenes, great characters and wonderful team mates that were introduced in this story.
It also dealt with Lillah’s relationship with her dangerous ex and her determination to put the past behind her.
Marshall is a teddy bear who falls first and shows his commitment and love in all the little things he does for her.
Lillah just needs to let her fears go and believe in what they have been building.
An enjoyable quick read.
I’m definitely looking forward to more books in this hockey series.
Thank you SL Sterling for the opportunity to read this story.
This is book 1 of the Boston Enforcers series and the new rookie Marshall has just come to town to prove his worth to the team.
Welcomed by his teammates and shown the ropes Marshall is soon settling into his new home and team.
However, a few run ins with his next door neighbour Lillah and her Great Dane Cooper, has them both disliking each other, even though the chemistry between themselves is hot.
Marshall later realises that he was in the wrong and owes Lillah an apology, which once done soon leads to them giving into temptation and spending a lot of time together.
This was a quick read with a bit of drama, some funny moments, plus steamy scenes, great characters and wonderful team mates that were introduced in this story.
It also dealt with Lillah’s relationship with her dangerous ex and her determination to put the past behind her.
Marshall is a teddy bear who falls first and shows his commitment and love in all the little things he does for her.
Lillah just needs to let her fears go and believe in what they have been building.
An enjoyable quick read.
I’m definitely looking forward to more books in this hockey series.
Thank you SL Sterling for the opportunity to read this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cooper isn't the Pooper. lol When you read it you will understand that more.
Marshall is a rookie for the Boston Enforcers and Lillah is an interior decorator.
He moves in beside her and lets just say it didn't start off well.
He is trying to adjust to city life and she is trying to heal about being in an abusive 3 year relationship.
Lots of trust issues. After the Cooper sitution was figured out Marshall said his sorry for real this time and she excepted it. They ended up having coffee and talking and Marshall could sense that she had trust issues and didn't need to know that.
More time they spent together the more of the story came our and it really angred him.
She went to some games and became IG offical. Issue with that is her ex found her and showed up and her place. Thank goodness Marshall showed up
Marshall thought he was doing a wonderful thing for Lillah and started to promote her business but she was happy about that because she wanted to do it on her own and felt that he was trying to control her like her ex did.
She knew she over reacted and he figure it out why she was angry.
They talked and got to live HEA. All 3 of them
Marshall is a rookie for the Boston Enforcers and Lillah is an interior decorator.
He moves in beside her and lets just say it didn't start off well.
He is trying to adjust to city life and she is trying to heal about being in an abusive 3 year relationship.
Lots of trust issues. After the Cooper sitution was figured out Marshall said his sorry for real this time and she excepted it. They ended up having coffee and talking and Marshall could sense that she had trust issues and didn't need to know that.
More time they spent together the more of the story came our and it really angred him.
She went to some games and became IG offical. Issue with that is her ex found her and showed up and her place. Thank goodness Marshall showed up
Marshall thought he was doing a wonderful thing for Lillah and started to promote her business but she was happy about that because she wanted to do it on her own and felt that he was trying to control her like her ex did.
She knew she over reacted and he figure it out why she was angry.
They talked and got to live HEA. All 3 of them
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
If you’re looking for a fun, sassy, and seriously swoon-worthy hockey romance featuring an adorable Great Dane named Cooper and a hero guaranteed to knock you off your feet, then look no further than Checking from Behind, the first book in S.L. Sterling’s brand-new Boston Enforcers series.
This was the perfect introduction to the series. Marshall, a nearly drafted hockey player, has just moved into his new home, but things don’t exactly get off to a smooth start with his new neighbour, Lillah, after he accuses her beloved Great Dane of destroying his front lawn. Their hilarious first encounter quickly sparks a chemistry that’s impossible to ignore.
Lillah is rebuilding both her interior design business and her confidence after a painful breakup, and after swearing off sportsmen, the last person she expects to fall for is the handsome hockey player next door. But fate clearly has other plans.
Packed with witty banter, sizzling chemistry, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of heart, Checking from Behind is a delightful, feel-good romance that leaves you eager for more from the Boston Enforcers. A quick, delicious read that hockey romance fans won’t want to miss.
This was the perfect introduction to the series. Marshall, a nearly drafted hockey player, has just moved into his new home, but things don’t exactly get off to a smooth start with his new neighbour, Lillah, after he accuses her beloved Great Dane of destroying his front lawn. Their hilarious first encounter quickly sparks a chemistry that’s impossible to ignore.
Lillah is rebuilding both her interior design business and her confidence after a painful breakup, and after swearing off sportsmen, the last person she expects to fall for is the handsome hockey player next door. But fate clearly has other plans.
Packed with witty banter, sizzling chemistry, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of heart, Checking from Behind is a delightful, feel-good romance that leaves you eager for more from the Boston Enforcers. A quick, delicious read that hockey romance fans won’t want to miss.
July 15, 2026
Hockey romance - check. Great banter - check. Chemistry that is off the charts - check. Two MCs who just love to hate one another - check. Ms. Sterling has hit all the boxes with Checking from Behind. She knows her way around the enemies-to-lovers tropes and has a hat trick on her hands. Such a great start to her new series, Boston Enforcers,
Marsall has one thing on his agenda: hockey. Nothing and nobody is going to get in his way until he meets his next-door neighbour, Lillah and her Great Dane, Cooper. Right from the start, you knew these two were going to set the pages on fire when they finally gave in to the pull. The one thing standing in Lillah's way was her past and the fact that it still haunts her. Leave it to Marshall to show her that not all men are the same. He swept her and me off our feet. Yes, he was cocky, but it was more in a confident way and not an irritating way.
What I did love was how Marshall got Lillah to open her heart to love again. There was also the found family with his teammates and their partners.
Can't wait to see what she has in store in the next book.
Marsall has one thing on his agenda: hockey. Nothing and nobody is going to get in his way until he meets his next-door neighbour, Lillah and her Great Dane, Cooper. Right from the start, you knew these two were going to set the pages on fire when they finally gave in to the pull. The one thing standing in Lillah's way was her past and the fact that it still haunts her. Leave it to Marshall to show her that not all men are the same. He swept her and me off our feet. Yes, he was cocky, but it was more in a confident way and not an irritating way.
What I did love was how Marshall got Lillah to open her heart to love again. There was also the found family with his teammates and their partners.
Can't wait to see what she has in store in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an ARC for an honest review.
I enjoy reading; that is not a secret. I also read everything and go through my phases; just look at my TBR dates added and where my 4-star ratings are to see what phase I am in. That being said, my rating may be different when I re-read a book based on my current phase.
All that being said, this book has character development that goes with someone meeting the good guy who is already at the level of awareness you are learning to be. This book is not for the person who avoids therapy and learning. This book is geared towards those who are working on themselves and have pinpointed their triggers but still learning how to know you are triggered and how to neutralize it.
The paragraph above probably has you thinking this book is a self-help book. NO it is not, it is a fun romance read with self-development undertones for those who want to see it. It is a fun book with a good guy who makes a Sh!t out of himself ;) and wins the girl's heart who is recovering from a bad relationship.
I enjoy reading; that is not a secret. I also read everything and go through my phases; just look at my TBR dates added and where my 4-star ratings are to see what phase I am in. That being said, my rating may be different when I re-read a book based on my current phase.
All that being said, this book has character development that goes with someone meeting the good guy who is already at the level of awareness you are learning to be. This book is not for the person who avoids therapy and learning. This book is geared towards those who are working on themselves and have pinpointed their triggers but still learning how to know you are triggered and how to neutralize it.
The paragraph above probably has you thinking this book is a self-help book. NO it is not, it is a fun romance read with self-development undertones for those who want to see it. It is a fun book with a good guy who makes a Sh!t out of himself ;) and wins the girl's heart who is recovering from a bad relationship.
Review of advance copy
From their first clash to every encounter afterwards, Marshall and Lillah bring the snark, sparks and heat. I laughed out loud, snickered, sniffled and nearly overheated while reading their story.
Lillah told herself after her disastrous experience with her ex that men would not be part of her life. Then she met Marshall who quickly pushed that aside. She might bring a little chaos to Marshal’s life, but she also brings the light, the laughter and meaning to it. He shows her that not all men are like her ex. He supports and encourages her, and slowly but surely, she learns to trust him and her heart again.
I loved how patient and protective Marshall was without trying to control Lillah. His friends and family were great too, welcoming Lillah into their fold and making her feel comfortable and safe. Her friend Mila was the kind of friend everyone wants. …the ride or die kind who you can count on unconditionally. The evolution of their relationship from enemies to lovers was mesmerizing and delightful.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
Lillah told herself after her disastrous experience with her ex that men would not be part of her life. Then she met Marshall who quickly pushed that aside. She might bring a little chaos to Marshal’s life, but she also brings the light, the laughter and meaning to it. He shows her that not all men are like her ex. He supports and encourages her, and slowly but surely, she learns to trust him and her heart again.
I loved how patient and protective Marshall was without trying to control Lillah. His friends and family were great too, welcoming Lillah into their fold and making her feel comfortable and safe. Her friend Mila was the kind of friend everyone wants. …the ride or die kind who you can count on unconditionally. The evolution of their relationship from enemies to lovers was mesmerizing and delightful.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
July 15, 2026
ARC Review
Book: Checking from Behind
Author: S.L. Sterling
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book from page that I read it in two days.
Book one of the Boston Enforces Series follows the story of Marshall and Lillah.
Lillah Winters left Texas to start over and Marshall Hayes moved to Boston to play Hockey.
When Marshall accuses Lillah’s dog on doing his business on his front yard, it’s hate at first sight. However, what they don’t expect is the attraction between them. Lillah does not trust men, especially athletes after a bad relationship. But as time goes on and they start spending time together, she see that Marshall is different.
He shows her that he is there for her and that he will never hurt her. He is her biggest supporter and she’s also there for him supporting his career as a hockey player.
But when her ex shows up at her door, Marshall shows her that he will always be there to protect her.
I really loved the chemistry between Marshall and Lillah and how protective he was towards her.
Thank you @slsterling for this amazing ARC!
Book: Checking from Behind
Author: S.L. Sterling
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book from page that I read it in two days.
Book one of the Boston Enforces Series follows the story of Marshall and Lillah.
Lillah Winters left Texas to start over and Marshall Hayes moved to Boston to play Hockey.
When Marshall accuses Lillah’s dog on doing his business on his front yard, it’s hate at first sight. However, what they don’t expect is the attraction between them. Lillah does not trust men, especially athletes after a bad relationship. But as time goes on and they start spending time together, she see that Marshall is different.
He shows her that he is there for her and that he will never hurt her. He is her biggest supporter and she’s also there for him supporting his career as a hockey player.
But when her ex shows up at her door, Marshall shows her that he will always be there to protect her.
I really loved the chemistry between Marshall and Lillah and how protective he was towards her.
Thank you @slsterling for this amazing ARC!
July 16, 2026
Marshall is a new recruit of the Boston Enforcers NHL team. Lillah is an interior designer who has issues with being independent following her controling ex, a professional baseball player. It is a relationship based on a rocky start, misunderstandings and a great deal of personal interest in each other. Each needs to learn to accept and adjust, especially as good intentions are not immediately recognised until her ex turns up and Marshall proves his commitment, worth and values..Lillah suddenly has a change of heart, but the interest and chemistry between them is at the fore. I like the way they react to each other, the growing admiration and the overall effect. Marshall, at 23 years old, is certainly mature in how he handles the ups and downs of it all. It is good to see how Lilllah can open up to her feelings and mistakes, despite her reservations. Changes for them both and when combined benefits both.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Checking from Behind* by S.L. Sterling is an engaging hockey romance featuring enemies to lovers, an alpha hero, and a resilient heroine.
Marshall and Lilah's first encounters are nothing short of disastrous—from an embarrassing dog poop incident to an iced coffee disaster—but their chemistry is undeniable from the beginning. As they slowly move past their rocky start, the story beautifully explores trust, healing, and overcoming the scars of an abusive past.
Marshall completely won me over with his patience and willingness to prove he's nothing like the man Lilah left behind. Their slow-building relationship felt genuine, emotional, and incredibly satisfying.
If you're looking for a hockey romance with humor, heartfelt moments, and plenty of tension, this is one to add to your TBR.
Marshall and Lilah's first encounters are nothing short of disastrous—from an embarrassing dog poop incident to an iced coffee disaster—but their chemistry is undeniable from the beginning. As they slowly move past their rocky start, the story beautifully explores trust, healing, and overcoming the scars of an abusive past.
Marshall completely won me over with his patience and willingness to prove he's nothing like the man Lilah left behind. Their slow-building relationship felt genuine, emotional, and incredibly satisfying.
If you're looking for a hockey romance with humor, heartfelt moments, and plenty of tension, this is one to add to your TBR.
July 15, 2026
This book was such a fun, fast, and intense read. Everything about it was enjoyable and entertaining to read. Marshall and Lillah were amazing together. I mean how can you not cheer for a relationship that starts with falling in dog poop and late night yelling. Their connection was intense. Their banter was on point. And their chemistry was undeniable from the start. Lillah is definitely a take no nonsense kind of girl and I loved it. She’s a strong character who stands on her own. And the fact that Marshall understood he messed up and was willing to do what he needed to apologize was so refreshing. Throughout this book we get tension and drama and heat and humor. It’s a book that you easily can read the entire thing in one sitting before realizing it. And the ending was honestly perfect. It wrapped up their story in the best way and showed how far these two people had come.
July 26, 2026
Marshall and Lillah
I absolutely adored this book. The way they met was so incredibly cute! Marshall is a hockey player living next-door to an interior designer trying to get her business to take off. Lillah has had an abusive relationship in her past one that she ran away from so she is not at all looking for another relationship, especially with another athlete! Marshall is super focused on his career and getting to the next level. The last thing he wanted was a beautiful neighbor with a big dog messing up his life,! but somehow these two found a way to get together and be the best addition in each other’s lives. They figured out having somebody in your life, That’s the right person can elevate you not bring you down. Absolutely could not put this book down. Read through it in two days. I can’t recommend it enough.!
I absolutely adored this book. The way they met was so incredibly cute! Marshall is a hockey player living next-door to an interior designer trying to get her business to take off. Lillah has had an abusive relationship in her past one that she ran away from so she is not at all looking for another relationship, especially with another athlete! Marshall is super focused on his career and getting to the next level. The last thing he wanted was a beautiful neighbor with a big dog messing up his life,! but somehow these two found a way to get together and be the best addition in each other’s lives. They figured out having somebody in your life, That’s the right person can elevate you not bring you down. Absolutely could not put this book down. Read through it in two days. I can’t recommend it enough.!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Marshall & Lilah's story is interesting... it is pretty fast paced & I enjoyed their interactions & how their story plays out.
While this is a sports/hockey romance, there is a good balance... I like that there are a few hockey scenes & that Lilah goes to his games (once they get to know each other/start dating).
This is Book 1 in the Boston Enforcers series. I look forward to the rest of the series!
Spice level: 3/5
*hockey romance
*sports romance
*they are next door neighbors
*enemies to lovers
*she has a dog
*past trauma/healing
*small town romance
*shorter length novel (just under 200 pages)
Thank you to the author (S. L. Sterling) for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
While this is a sports/hockey romance, there is a good balance... I like that there are a few hockey scenes & that Lilah goes to his games (once they get to know each other/start dating).
This is Book 1 in the Boston Enforcers series. I look forward to the rest of the series!
Spice level: 3/5
*hockey romance
*sports romance
*they are next door neighbors
*enemies to lovers
*she has a dog
*past trauma/healing
*small town romance
*shorter length novel (just under 200 pages)
Thank you to the author (S. L. Sterling) for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Book 1 of Boston Enforcers. And a FANtastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Checking from Behind is a steamy, scorching enemies-to-lovers next-door-neighbor hockey romance with: a small-town hero with a heart of gold, a sassy heroine with a healing arc, an absolute sweetheart of a Great Dane named Cooper, on-page heat, an HEA, and absolutely no cheating.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Checking from Behind is a steamy, scorching enemies-to-lovers next-door-neighbor hockey romance with: a small-town hero with a heart of gold, a sassy heroine with a healing arc, an absolute sweetheart of a Great Dane named Cooper, on-page heat, an HEA, and absolutely no cheating.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2026
Learning to trust
Lillah and Marshall had an interesting meet-cute that left both bristling. Their second one was not much better. But neither could stop thinking about the other. I loved their chemistry.
Both were starting over in their own way. Marshall was the team rookie, in a new town far from home. Lillah was escaping a bad situation with the help of her best friend. Speaking of best friends, everyone deserves someone like Mila.
Cooper, Lillah’s dog, had a personality of his own.
I loved the connection and communication, the team camaraderie, the banter, humour and heartfelt emotion. This was easy to read, a slow burn, steamy romance that dealt with safety, abuse, vulnerability and trust.
I look forward to more from this new series, The Boston Enforcers.
Lillah and Marshall had an interesting meet-cute that left both bristling. Their second one was not much better. But neither could stop thinking about the other. I loved their chemistry.
Both were starting over in their own way. Marshall was the team rookie, in a new town far from home. Lillah was escaping a bad situation with the help of her best friend. Speaking of best friends, everyone deserves someone like Mila.
Cooper, Lillah’s dog, had a personality of his own.
I loved the connection and communication, the team camaraderie, the banter, humour and heartfelt emotion. This was easy to read, a slow burn, steamy romance that dealt with safety, abuse, vulnerability and trust.
I look forward to more from this new series, The Boston Enforcers.
July 24, 2026
Learning to Trust Again
I’m not one to usually read sports books but this one caught my interest just from the blurb! I learned a few things throughout the story and even though there are sad spots the uplifting parts make the story really good. What does it feel like to be a Rookie Hockey player? Well Marshall is living the dream but he’s definitely NOT letting it go to his head. A new home in a new town, an exciting job that he Loves and a neighbor that’s driving him CRAZY. Well Lillah, the new neighbor, feels the same way about all of the same things. WOW. The biggest question is will the past and the present get on the same page? Letting herself live while not being traumatized is a big ask but maybe, just maybe, Marshall is just what dreams are made of!❤️❤️
I’m not one to usually read sports books but this one caught my interest just from the blurb! I learned a few things throughout the story and even though there are sad spots the uplifting parts make the story really good. What does it feel like to be a Rookie Hockey player? Well Marshall is living the dream but he’s definitely NOT letting it go to his head. A new home in a new town, an exciting job that he Loves and a neighbor that’s driving him CRAZY. Well Lillah, the new neighbor, feels the same way about all of the same things. WOW. The biggest question is will the past and the present get on the same page? Letting herself live while not being traumatized is a big ask but maybe, just maybe, Marshall is just what dreams are made of!❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Marshal Hayes is the rookie new boy with the Boston Enforcers ice hockey team. He moved into his new home in a gated community but he gets off to a bad start with his new neighbour Lillah, mistakenly accusing her dog of fouling his property. Lillah is an internal designer trying to establish her own business after moving to Boston to escape her abusive ex boyfriend. After more mishaps between the two they end up kissing. However, Lillah is definitely not looking for love again but neither can ignore the chemistry between them. But Marshal has to be patient to persuade Lillah that they can have a future together.
Review of advance copy
Boston Enforcers #1
Lillah Winters is an interior designer who moved to Boston to start over after a bad relationship and she made a rule not to date another athlete.
Marshall Hayes is the new rookie for the Boston Enforcers. He just moved into a quiet gated community where he meets his new neighbor Lillah. They get off to a bad start when Marshall accuses her dog Cooper of pooping in his yard, but then things take a turn when he kisses her.
As they get to know each other Marshall treats her as an equal with respect and patience helping Lillah learn to trust again.
4 stars
Sweet story. Cooper was a delight.
Lillah Winters is an interior designer who moved to Boston to start over after a bad relationship and she made a rule not to date another athlete.
Marshall Hayes is the new rookie for the Boston Enforcers. He just moved into a quiet gated community where he meets his new neighbor Lillah. They get off to a bad start when Marshall accuses her dog Cooper of pooping in his yard, but then things take a turn when he kisses her.
As they get to know each other Marshall treats her as an equal with respect and patience helping Lillah learn to trust again.
4 stars
Sweet story. Cooper was a delight.
July 25, 2026
This is the first of the new Boston Enforcers story. It is so good and had me hooked from the first page to the last one. The story is about Marshall, Lillah and neighbors to more. They do not get off to a good start but you cannot help cheer them on. Marshall is a hockey player, arrogant and cocky but trying to prove himself. Lillah is trying to heal from her ex and all the trauma he put her through. She has move to Boston for a fresh start. I love the push and pull between the character but I really loved how he was their for her. The witty banter and snarky exchanges are so good.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking From Behind is the first book in SL Sterling's new Boston Enforcers series. It's an enemies (and neighbors) to lovers sports romance, and a pretty quick read (200 pages). I honestly really enjoyed this one! The story flowed naturally, and Marshall and Lillah's chemistry was undeniable from the moment they met, even though they started off on the wrong foot, and it grabbed my attention from the very first page. I would definitely recommend this one, and can't wait for more in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking From Behind is the first book in the Boston Enforcers series and I found this fast paced hockey romance to be a really enjoyable read. Next door neighbours Marshall and Lillah definitely didn't have the traditional romantic love at first sight moment, however I absolutely loved how this couple first met!!! These enemies to lovers certainly turned out to be the perfect match and I enjoyed how they grew together and the healing journey Lillah was on. Great supporting characters, especially Cooper and I am looking forward to reading more about this Boston hockey team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A brand new hockey series off the back of the the great Vancouver Dominators series! This is book 1 of the Boston Enforcers, and this is the story or rookie Marshall Hayes. Fresh out the draft, hes moved to a brand new city to join a brand new team, and with his new home, he has a new neighbour - Lillah. Sure they don't get off to the best of starts, but it wouldn't be a meet cute if they did. Lillah is also new to Boston, there for a fresh start. Disastrous first meets make these two enemies, moving to friendship and the more..love how patient Marshall was for his age. Theres a tiny reverse age gap here but with Marshall's emotional stability, he is much wiser beyond his years. A quick read and perfectly sets the scene for this upcoming series. Can't wait to read more from his teammates!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking from Behind is the 1st book in the Boston Enforcers series. It's a sports - aka hockey - romance between antagonistic neighbors-turned friends-turned lovers with a strong element of personal growth and moving on from past mistakes, which is not unexpected given that Marshall and Lillah are both in their early 20s. There's a good pace to the story and it combines banter & fun with serious issues and spicy sexy times, ending in a well-deserved HEA. I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews