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Novel Assist
She writes about love. He doesn't have time for it. But some rules are made to be broken.
Savannah
I write romance novels but can't finish a single one—probably because I've never been in love. So when hockey captain Noah Callahan offers me a deal—babysit his little sister during games and get insider access to his world—I tell myself it's just research. That friends with benefits is enough.
But Noah doesn't look at me like I'm a means to an end. He looks at me like I matter.
Every stolen moment, every late-night conversation, every time he lets me see past his walls—I'm falling. Hard. Fast. Dangerously. The problem? He's made it no strings, no promises, no future. And I'm terrified I'm writing myself into a love story with no happily ever after.
Noah
I've been holding my family together with duct tape and sheer willpower since my dad died. Hockey captain. Surrogate parent. The guy everyone depends on. I don't have time for complications, but Savannah James is the most beautiful distraction I've ever seen.
She's all sunshine and soft curves and everything I can’t let myself need.
So I offer her a no emotions, no expectations. Just heat and hockey tips. Simple.
Except nothing about Savannah is simple. She fits into my broken family like she was always meant to be there. My sister adores her. My teammates won't stop teasing me. And somewhere between the casual hookups and careful boundaries, I've started picturing a future I have no right to want.
But walking away from Savannah means losing the first person who's ever made me believe I could have it all.
A sizzling friends-with-benefits hockey romance about found family, hidden truths, and learning that being loved exactly as you are is worth breaking every rule.
From Becca Mercer comes the addictive first book in the Wynchester Wolves series—where the ice is cold, the players are scorching hot, and falling in love is the most dangerous game of all.
Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy, Bal Khabra, and Hannah Grace.
Friends with Benefits • Forced Proximity • Grumpy/Sunshine • Found Family • Single Dad Vibes • Hockey Romance
One-click now—your next book boyfriend is waiting.
Savannah
I write romance novels but can't finish a single one—probably because I've never been in love. So when hockey captain Noah Callahan offers me a deal—babysit his little sister during games and get insider access to his world—I tell myself it's just research. That friends with benefits is enough.
But Noah doesn't look at me like I'm a means to an end. He looks at me like I matter.
Every stolen moment, every late-night conversation, every time he lets me see past his walls—I'm falling. Hard. Fast. Dangerously. The problem? He's made it no strings, no promises, no future. And I'm terrified I'm writing myself into a love story with no happily ever after.
Noah
I've been holding my family together with duct tape and sheer willpower since my dad died. Hockey captain. Surrogate parent. The guy everyone depends on. I don't have time for complications, but Savannah James is the most beautiful distraction I've ever seen.
She's all sunshine and soft curves and everything I can’t let myself need.
So I offer her a no emotions, no expectations. Just heat and hockey tips. Simple.
Except nothing about Savannah is simple. She fits into my broken family like she was always meant to be there. My sister adores her. My teammates won't stop teasing me. And somewhere between the casual hookups and careful boundaries, I've started picturing a future I have no right to want.
But walking away from Savannah means losing the first person who's ever made me believe I could have it all.
A sizzling friends-with-benefits hockey romance about found family, hidden truths, and learning that being loved exactly as you are is worth breaking every rule.
From Becca Mercer comes the addictive first book in the Wynchester Wolves series—where the ice is cold, the players are scorching hot, and falling in love is the most dangerous game of all.
Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy, Bal Khabra, and Hannah Grace.
Friends with Benefits • Forced Proximity • Grumpy/Sunshine • Found Family • Single Dad Vibes • Hockey Romance
One-click now—your next book boyfriend is waiting.
432 pages, Paperback
Published February 10, 2026
3 people are currently reading
7177 people want to read
About the author
Becca Mercer
2 books35 followersBecca grew up in Montreal surrounded by hockey fans, but didn't fall in love with the sport until she found it in books. Now she writes college hockey romances filled with slow burns, smart heroines, and emotionally grounded heroes.
Her debut, Novel Assist (Wynchester Wolves #1) releases February 10th, 2026.
Sign up to get bonus scenes and early access to upcoming releases: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/9xmmhhyih6
Her debut, Novel Assist (Wynchester Wolves #1) releases February 10th, 2026.
Sign up to get bonus scenes and early access to upcoming releases: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/9xmmhhyih6
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 19, 2026
I thought this was going to be a cutesy hockey romance, but it ended up having more depth than I expected. We follow Savannah, who’s trying to find her footing in a world where she constantly feels invisible. She has a loving family, but being surrounded by successful athletic brothers makes her feel like she’s never quite the priority. Writing becomes her way to shine.
Looking for inspiration for her romance novel, she stumbles upon Noah, the captain of the hockey team. As he gives her insight into the hockey world for her book, the more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she’s not the only one struggling.
Overall, this was a 4-star read for me. I really enjoyed the main characters. Their relationship felt natural and developed at a believable pace. I will say Noah’s family dynamic was frustratingly confusing at times. The hockey teammates and side characters were fine. Some stood out more than others. I’m definitely interested to see where the story goes next.
I want to thank BookSirens and Becca Mercer for the ARC. All options expressed in this review are my own.
Looking for inspiration for her romance novel, she stumbles upon Noah, the captain of the hockey team. As he gives her insight into the hockey world for her book, the more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she’s not the only one struggling.
Overall, this was a 4-star read for me. I really enjoyed the main characters. Their relationship felt natural and developed at a believable pace. I will say Noah’s family dynamic was frustratingly confusing at times. The hockey teammates and side characters were fine. Some stood out more than others. I’m definitely interested to see where the story goes next.
I want to thank BookSirens and Becca Mercer for the ARC. All options expressed in this review are my own.
April 25, 2026
I ended up reading this in one sitting, which honestly says a lot. This was also the first novel by this author I have read.
I like hockey romances (and sports tropes in general), but this one felt top tier. I got way more emotionally invested than I expected, and it happened fast. Savannah was really easy to connect to, she’s quiet, a little guarded from past hurt and trust issues, and you can tell she’s used to keeping to herself. Watching her slowly open up and go after what she wants, especially with her writing, was one of my favorite parts.
I also really liked the dynamic between her and Noah. It didn’t feel overly perfect, they both had things to work through, like real people do. One thing that stood out to me was how supportive he was of her goals, especially helping her with the hockey side of her book. It added another layer to their relationship that made it feel more genuine.
There’s a lot going on with family, pressure, and just figuring life out, and it gave the story more emotional weight than I was expecting. There were definitely moments that made me laugh, and others that had me in actual tears.
By the end, I was honestly just attached. Not just to the main couple, but to the side characters too, I would absolutely read more about them (especially Owen… and even her brothers).
Overall, this was emotional, spicy, a little messy in a good way, and really hard to put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like hockey romances (and sports tropes in general), but this one felt top tier. I got way more emotionally invested than I expected, and it happened fast. Savannah was really easy to connect to, she’s quiet, a little guarded from past hurt and trust issues, and you can tell she’s used to keeping to herself. Watching her slowly open up and go after what she wants, especially with her writing, was one of my favorite parts.
I also really liked the dynamic between her and Noah. It didn’t feel overly perfect, they both had things to work through, like real people do. One thing that stood out to me was how supportive he was of her goals, especially helping her with the hockey side of her book. It added another layer to their relationship that made it feel more genuine.
There’s a lot going on with family, pressure, and just figuring life out, and it gave the story more emotional weight than I was expecting. There were definitely moments that made me laugh, and others that had me in actual tears.
By the end, I was honestly just attached. Not just to the main couple, but to the side characters too, I would absolutely read more about them (especially Owen… and even her brothers).
Overall, this was emotional, spicy, a little messy in a good way, and really hard to put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2026
This book really touched me with how sweet and honest Noah and Savannah's story is.
It's definitely a spicy read, being an open-door romance with some explicit intimate scenes.
There's clear change and growth in both MCs, and even in the secondary characters. Given their age, their actions, thoughts and the way they speak felt believable and natural.
''I smile at her, at both of them, and wish I knew how to be what they both need.'' - oh sweet Noah… being yourself is more than enough, as you'll eventually figure out.
The plot was predictable but satisfying, exactly what I was hoping for given the tropes and the blurb. There is a slight third-act breakup before their relationship becomes official, and while that can be a deal breaker in many books, here it felt real and necessary considering their insecurities and everything else they're juggling.
The setting also fits the story well. The college and college hockey dynamics aren't explored too deeply since the main focus is the evolution of their relationship, but at the same time nothing feels unfinished or left hanging.
There are also a few mini tropes that were really fun. We get a cute nickname for her in chapter 13, and can I just say how adorable ''Peaches'' is in that context?
The writing is easy to follow, with light but direct descriptions of actions, places and characters. We get enough detail to picture everything clearly without the story ever feeling dense or hard to read.
There is the off-page death of a close relative, grief and alcohol use by characters under 21. In some countries - like mine - the legal age is 18 so it may not feel shocking, but since the story takes place somewhere it isn't legal, it's worth mentioning in case that's something readers prefer to avoid.
''She writes about love. He doesn't have time for it. But some rules are made to be broken.''
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
It's definitely a spicy read, being an open-door romance with some explicit intimate scenes.
There's clear change and growth in both MCs, and even in the secondary characters. Given their age, their actions, thoughts and the way they speak felt believable and natural.
''I smile at her, at both of them, and wish I knew how to be what they both need.'' - oh sweet Noah… being yourself is more than enough, as you'll eventually figure out.
The plot was predictable but satisfying, exactly what I was hoping for given the tropes and the blurb. There is a slight third-act breakup before their relationship becomes official, and while that can be a deal breaker in many books, here it felt real and necessary considering their insecurities and everything else they're juggling.
The setting also fits the story well. The college and college hockey dynamics aren't explored too deeply since the main focus is the evolution of their relationship, but at the same time nothing feels unfinished or left hanging.
There are also a few mini tropes that were really fun. We get a cute nickname for her in chapter 13, and can I just say how adorable ''Peaches'' is in that context?
The writing is easy to follow, with light but direct descriptions of actions, places and characters. We get enough detail to picture everything clearly without the story ever feeling dense or hard to read.
There is the off-page death of a close relative, grief and alcohol use by characters under 21. In some countries - like mine - the legal age is 18 so it may not feel shocking, but since the story takes place somewhere it isn't legal, it's worth mentioning in case that's something readers prefer to avoid.
''She writes about love. He doesn't have time for it. But some rules are made to be broken.''
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
May 9, 2026
Novel Assist by Becca Mercer
Wynchester Wolves 1
Savannah, an aspiring novelist, is trying to come out of the shadows of her brother’s sporting success and find her own place in the world. Whilst her family is supportive many from her past have used her to get to her brothers.
Noah, hockey player, is trying to hold his family together after his father’s passing and his mother’s subsequent grief and depression. He’s always felt it is now his responsibility to take care of his sister, his younger half-brother, the household as well as be captain of the hockey team. He can’t add a girlfriend to the mix.
The two cross paths and Savannah helps out watching his younger sister and Noah helps her with the hockey knowledge she needs for the book she is writing.
Things get very emotional especially towards the end and you can’t help but feel for both characters.
The writing style drew me in and it was hard to put the book down. Lots of side characters I hope get their own books as the series continues and can’t wait to read the next book.
Hockey captain, wallflower, grief, mental health, protective older brothers, protective teammates, younger sister, friends with benefits, slow-burn, single bed, spice
College sports romance vibes like others I have read and loved including those by Elle Kennedy, Kristen Callihan and Rebecca Jenshak.
Thanks to Booksirens and Becca Mercer, I received an arc for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wynchester Wolves 1
Savannah, an aspiring novelist, is trying to come out of the shadows of her brother’s sporting success and find her own place in the world. Whilst her family is supportive many from her past have used her to get to her brothers.
Noah, hockey player, is trying to hold his family together after his father’s passing and his mother’s subsequent grief and depression. He’s always felt it is now his responsibility to take care of his sister, his younger half-brother, the household as well as be captain of the hockey team. He can’t add a girlfriend to the mix.
The two cross paths and Savannah helps out watching his younger sister and Noah helps her with the hockey knowledge she needs for the book she is writing.
Things get very emotional especially towards the end and you can’t help but feel for both characters.
The writing style drew me in and it was hard to put the book down. Lots of side characters I hope get their own books as the series continues and can’t wait to read the next book.
Hockey captain, wallflower, grief, mental health, protective older brothers, protective teammates, younger sister, friends with benefits, slow-burn, single bed, spice
College sports romance vibes like others I have read and loved including those by Elle Kennedy, Kristen Callihan and Rebecca Jenshak.
Thanks to Booksirens and Becca Mercer, I received an arc for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to Read
January 9, 2026really want this book <3
March 1, 2026
He's captain of the college hockey team, surrogate parent for his siblings, therapy for his mom; juggling all kinds of responsibilities leaves no room for relationships. But then he meets Savannah, who makes him long for more.
As the sister of two famous sports stars, Savanna has gotten all too used to people taking advantage of her too get to her brothers. That's why she'd rather keep to herself than party, why she's never submitted her writing for publication, why she doubts every relationship she's ever had. She wants to write sports romance, but every time she tries, she can only picture her brothers or their teammates and that's just...ewww! Then she meets hockey captain Noah and his adorable little sister...
They both have reasons, they both have secrets, and they're both absolutely horrible at communicating lol! But this is a sweet friends to lovers romance with angst and spice and sweetness. I love all the hockey bros in the Ivy house and how they protected Savanna when the truth came out. I'm excited to read the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
As the sister of two famous sports stars, Savanna has gotten all too used to people taking advantage of her too get to her brothers. That's why she'd rather keep to herself than party, why she's never submitted her writing for publication, why she doubts every relationship she's ever had. She wants to write sports romance, but every time she tries, she can only picture her brothers or their teammates and that's just...ewww! Then she meets hockey captain Noah and his adorable little sister...
They both have reasons, they both have secrets, and they're both absolutely horrible at communicating lol! But this is a sweet friends to lovers romance with angst and spice and sweetness. I love all the hockey bros in the Ivy house and how they protected Savanna when the truth came out. I'm excited to read the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
March 3, 2026
4 ⭐️/2 🌶️
This was a fun, cutesy hockey romance with so many emotions! I was expecting a romcom after reading the blurb, but I was wrong.
The feelings Savannah felt made it so relatable, and the way her and Noah's journey was written was adorable. The best part is the friendship! We didn't directly see the potential between the characters, but as the story went on, we realized how much they complement each other.
Trope: Hockey romance, Single Dad
This was a fun, cutesy hockey romance with so many emotions! I was expecting a romcom after reading the blurb, but I was wrong.
The feelings Savannah felt made it so relatable, and the way her and Noah's journey was written was adorable. The best part is the friendship! We didn't directly see the potential between the characters, but as the story went on, we realized how much they complement each other.
Trope: Hockey romance, Single Dad
March 2, 2026
If you love hockey romances, this is the book for you. The formula of these kinds of books can be pretty predictable but Becca executes said formula brilliantly.
I love the way Savannah and Noah meet and how genuinely their friendship begins to form. I would have loved more time with both of them as they move through this story. Sometimes the chapters felt very short and I would have loved to see how certain scenes would have played out but at the same time, the pacing kept me engaged all the way through.
This felt like a love letter to hockey romance readers and I love that Savannah is “one of us”. I felt like this take on the FMC was really refreshing and fun to read.
There’s a small need to suspend some disbelief in regard to Savannah’s brothers both being all star pros in different sports. At first this really bothered me when it didn’t appear to be important to the plot outside of getting Savannah into the sports complex. Once is was clearly shown that her brothers’ success has negatively impacted Savannah and will directly influence her relationship with new friends and potential partners, I appreciated the backstory much more.
There are some minor inconsistencies and some characters that get introduced only to never be spoken of again (maybe we’ll see them in the sequels 😂), but I throughly enjoyed this book and will be looking forward to any future installments! 💕
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the way Savannah and Noah meet and how genuinely their friendship begins to form. I would have loved more time with both of them as they move through this story. Sometimes the chapters felt very short and I would have loved to see how certain scenes would have played out but at the same time, the pacing kept me engaged all the way through.
This felt like a love letter to hockey romance readers and I love that Savannah is “one of us”. I felt like this take on the FMC was really refreshing and fun to read.
There’s a small need to suspend some disbelief in regard to Savannah’s brothers both being all star pros in different sports. At first this really bothered me when it didn’t appear to be important to the plot outside of getting Savannah into the sports complex. Once is was clearly shown that her brothers’ success has negatively impacted Savannah and will directly influence her relationship with new friends and potential partners, I appreciated the backstory much more.
There are some minor inconsistencies and some characters that get introduced only to never be spoken of again (maybe we’ll see them in the sequels 😂), but I throughly enjoyed this book and will be looking forward to any future installments! 💕
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 30, 2026
ARC Review - Sweet, cozy, and lovely
I started this book because the blurp was so interesting to me. To have an author as the FMC who is trying to write a hockey romance and needs the help of the MMC felt so unique I just had to read it. It certainly did not dissapoint. On a meta level this book was awesome. The subtle nodds at the genre and mentions of Elle Kennedy were so amazing to catch and I loved every second of it. In fact, I was so sucked into this book I finished it in one sitting.
Although the climax felt a bit anticlimatic as I predicted it but that did not take away the impact.
Sav was such an interesting character and I have to say I have mixed opinions on her. For one, I really enjoy her and her development was lovely to read. She grew with every page. But on the other hand, I was getting a tad bit annoyed at her reactions in the climax of the book because I felt she was moving backwards again. Which I know is realistic but well. I still like her very much just that little bit icked me. Noah was amazing to read. I was calling him "cute idiot" while reading so much and I just adore him lmao. Sometimes he was so blind to his own feelings I wanted to get into the book and talk some sense into him but for the most part, I loved his inner voice and cackled more than once during his POVs.
Lacey, Izzie and the others were an amazing support cast with fleshed out characters, voices and everything that it felt so natural to read. I loved that so much.
Overall, it was a great read that I enjoyed very much and for the first in a series, is really good. The climax fell a bit short for me. I do look forward to the next book, Owen's, very much and can't wait for more!
I started this book because the blurp was so interesting to me. To have an author as the FMC who is trying to write a hockey romance and needs the help of the MMC felt so unique I just had to read it. It certainly did not dissapoint. On a meta level this book was awesome. The subtle nodds at the genre and mentions of Elle Kennedy were so amazing to catch and I loved every second of it. In fact, I was so sucked into this book I finished it in one sitting.
Although the climax felt a bit anticlimatic as I predicted it but that did not take away the impact.
Sav was such an interesting character and I have to say I have mixed opinions on her. For one, I really enjoy her and her development was lovely to read. She grew with every page. But on the other hand, I was getting a tad bit annoyed at her reactions in the climax of the book because I felt she was moving backwards again. Which I know is realistic but well. I still like her very much just that little bit icked me. Noah was amazing to read. I was calling him "cute idiot" while reading so much and I just adore him lmao. Sometimes he was so blind to his own feelings I wanted to get into the book and talk some sense into him but for the most part, I loved his inner voice and cackled more than once during his POVs.
Lacey, Izzie and the others were an amazing support cast with fleshed out characters, voices and everything that it felt so natural to read. I loved that so much.
Overall, it was a great read that I enjoyed very much and for the first in a series, is really good. The climax fell a bit short for me. I do look forward to the next book, Owen's, very much and can't wait for more!
March 9, 2026
I'm a sucker for hockey romances and this one did not disappoint!
Savannah and Noah's relationship was very interesting to follow, from friends with benefits to lovers, and all of the struggles each of them had, and how they became better together was very satifying!
Now I'm running to go read about Darren and Lacey's story and can't wait for the next book of this series. If you love hockey romance, friends with benefits and found family tropes, then you don't want to miss this one! ^-^
~ Thank you to Becca Mercer and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! ~
Savannah and Noah's relationship was very interesting to follow, from friends with benefits to lovers, and all of the struggles each of them had, and how they became better together was very satifying!
Now I'm running to go read about Darren and Lacey's story and can't wait for the next book of this series. If you love hockey romance, friends with benefits and found family tropes, then you don't want to miss this one! ^-^
~ Thank you to Becca Mercer and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own! ~
Read
March 2, 2026ARC REVIEW
My heart is officially in a hockey-shaped puddle. 🏒💖
Savannah writes romance novels but has never been in love—until she meets Noah, hockey captain, overworked family hero, and the kind of guy who makes “no strings attached” feel impossible. Their deal starts simple: babysit, insider access, no promises. But every late-night conversation, every stolen glance, every laugh? Totally rewriting the rules of her heart. 💌✨
Noah’s walls are high, but Savannah fits into his chaotic life like she was always meant to be there. Friends with benefits? Sure. Until it’s not. And suddenly both of them are staring at a future they never thought they deserved. 🥹💞
If you love:
💫 slow-burn romance
🏒 “hockey captain” protective heroes
🌟 found-family vibes
🔥 swoony, messy, real love
This one’s a 5 ⭐ swoon-fest — funny, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. Now I want my own hockey-themed love story… and maybe some insider tips. 😉
Thanks @booksirens and @authorbeccamercer for the opportunity to be an advanced reader.
My heart is officially in a hockey-shaped puddle. 🏒💖
Savannah writes romance novels but has never been in love—until she meets Noah, hockey captain, overworked family hero, and the kind of guy who makes “no strings attached” feel impossible. Their deal starts simple: babysit, insider access, no promises. But every late-night conversation, every stolen glance, every laugh? Totally rewriting the rules of her heart. 💌✨
Noah’s walls are high, but Savannah fits into his chaotic life like she was always meant to be there. Friends with benefits? Sure. Until it’s not. And suddenly both of them are staring at a future they never thought they deserved. 🥹💞
If you love:
💫 slow-burn romance
🏒 “hockey captain” protective heroes
🌟 found-family vibes
🔥 swoony, messy, real love
This one’s a 5 ⭐ swoon-fest — funny, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. Now I want my own hockey-themed love story… and maybe some insider tips. 😉
Thanks @booksirens and @authorbeccamercer for the opportunity to be an advanced reader.
February 27, 2026
This story is just the perfect mix of sport, spice, action, growth, grief, self awareness, growth, coming of age, family love, and the sweetest love.
Savannah and Noah are the cusp of starting adulthood, and they are already facing problems that are making them mature ahead of time. For him is having to be a father to his siblings, for her is defining her career and presence. THey are opposites, he is a jock with a heart, she is still innocent with a need to gather experience.
Their meet cute is perfect, and they agreement to help each other feels fated, he shows her a side of friendship, family, hockey, acceptance, understanding that makes her grow and lean towards him. and she brings the constant, an anchor, a set of hands and ears to his fears. Together they go from simple acquaintances to friends to lovers. The book shows their growth beautifully, their development is so in tone with the idea of forming a family at the same time.
I just loved the book!
Savannah and Noah are the cusp of starting adulthood, and they are already facing problems that are making them mature ahead of time. For him is having to be a father to his siblings, for her is defining her career and presence. THey are opposites, he is a jock with a heart, she is still innocent with a need to gather experience.
Their meet cute is perfect, and they agreement to help each other feels fated, he shows her a side of friendship, family, hockey, acceptance, understanding that makes her grow and lean towards him. and she brings the constant, an anchor, a set of hands and ears to his fears. Together they go from simple acquaintances to friends to lovers. The book shows their growth beautifully, their development is so in tone with the idea of forming a family at the same time.
I just loved the book!
February 28, 2026
4⭐2🌶️ ARC Dual POV First Person 432pgs
🇨🇦 Author
Savannah and Noah
A beautiful story, love a strangers to friends, to FWB, to lovers story. Both have some obstacles they need to deal with and need to stop getting in their own way. FMCs brothers both play sports and I love that they're not the typical "don't touch my sister" types, but are still protective. Lots of great side characters too.
🇨🇦 Author
Savannah and Noah
A beautiful story, love a strangers to friends, to FWB, to lovers story. Both have some obstacles they need to deal with and need to stop getting in their own way. FMCs brothers both play sports and I love that they're not the typical "don't touch my sister" types, but are still protective. Lots of great side characters too.
February 21, 2026
I loved this sports romance book. Savannah, Noah, Izzie, and Noah's roommates made this story so enjoyable. The chemistry between Sav and Noah was felt from their first meet at the college hockey rink and just blossomed from there. Izzie is so adorable and wise beyond her years. I loved that this book had no interfering exes and that the misunderstanding between Noah and Sav was done out of protection and love. I also loved how Savannah’s brothers, although famous athletes, always put her first.
My heart went out to Noah and Izzie. Their family pain after their loss felt so intense and made me want to reach through the pages and give them a momma hug. I am glad that Noah, Izzie, and their mom are trying to be a whole family again and props to Doug for staying and working on helping Noah and Izzie's mom get better. This book was wonderful and I could not put it down. I read it twice because it was that good!!!
My heart went out to Noah and Izzie. Their family pain after their loss felt so intense and made me want to reach through the pages and give them a momma hug. I am glad that Noah, Izzie, and their mom are trying to be a whole family again and props to Doug for staying and working on helping Noah and Izzie's mom get better. This book was wonderful and I could not put it down. I read it twice because it was that good!!!
March 1, 2026
This book was such a great addition to the sports romance book universe. I loved the relationships in this book. It was very enjoyable to read and so well-written. A really good debut novel!
March 1, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Absolutely loved it. Savannah and Noah just happen to meet at an ice rink during a practice not a real thing to happen usually cause no one but players are usually there. But the budding friendship, college, and family life, along with the sports are are real. Made me feel like I was part of the book. Very well written. Plan to read more books by this author.
February 17, 2026
Novel Assist, the first book in the Wynchester Wolves series, is equal parts sexy and sincere, striking a balance between heat and heart that’s hard to resist. The chemistry crackles, but it’s the emotional grounding that really pulls you in. This is a story that makes you root for a happily-ever-after not just out of genre loyalty, but because Noah and Savannah feel fully realized, flawed, and deeply deserving of one. Their journey is tender, charged, and satisfying, setting a strong foundation for the series and leaving you eager for what comes next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2026
This was such a fun hockey romance! I really liked Savannah and Noah, especially how their friendship developed throughout the story, it felt natural and sweet. The short chapters made it super easy to keep reading “just one more” and before I knew it I was hooked. Overall, it was a cute, enjoyable read that left me wanting more. I received an advance review copy for free, and i am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy
A solid sports romance with lots of feel-good characters. The FMC has a lot of self-esteem issue stemming from multiple people and situations but it is handled gently. There is a lot of grief and heavy responsibility so this is not a light, fluffy romcom.
I loved the cast of characters in this book because none of the guys on the team were unlikeable or overly douchy and Lacey was a great support for Savannah. Sav and Noah had so much patience and understanding with each other that the FWB portion of the story just felt like it got in the way. Their meetings in the library were adorable and Izzie was such a cute mischief maker.
I actually struggled most with Noah's mom. The half-sibling thing and Doug's devotion really made me hate her. It made Noah's sacrifices feel worse and I felt so bad for Izzie. Her grief is absolutely justified, but I didnt like the portrayal in the context of this book.
Thank you to BookSirens and Becca Mercer for the free eARC.
I loved the cast of characters in this book because none of the guys on the team were unlikeable or overly douchy and Lacey was a great support for Savannah. Sav and Noah had so much patience and understanding with each other that the FWB portion of the story just felt like it got in the way. Their meetings in the library were adorable and Izzie was such a cute mischief maker.
I actually struggled most with Noah's mom. The half-sibling thing and Doug's devotion really made me hate her. It made Noah's sacrifices feel worse and I felt so bad for Izzie. Her grief is absolutely justified, but I didnt like the portrayal in the context of this book.
Thank you to BookSirens and Becca Mercer for the free eARC.
February 11, 2026
I found myself caught up in Noah and Savannah's world and didnt want to put the book down. Although at times it felt like many troupes were being pushed (single bed, fake dating, hidden identity etc) the way it was worked into Savannah's writing journey made it work so did not feel awkward or forced. Its a cute predictable heartwarming hockey romance that scores well!
Overall I really enjoyed this read and can not wait for what comes next, I have already downloaded Road Play to find out Darren and Lacey's origin story!
ARC disclaimer; I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall I really enjoyed this read and can not wait for what comes next, I have already downloaded Road Play to find out Darren and Lacey's origin story!
ARC disclaimer; I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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February 11, 2026Novel Assist an easy read, it easily captivates you as soon as you start It. I enJoy the familiar love between clay, Dallas, In savannah , especially with her older brothers , are talking about how found family counts , baby sisters as well.Speaking of found family , I love noah's team in the banter they have. So if you like good big brothers(even if they're bonus brothers), hockey, great internal thoughts, and you enjoy a third act breakup read this. Becca Mercer is definitely going to be an author I look for going forward. And I can't wait to read more Wynchester Wolves books.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2026
I read this as an ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I loved this! I have read a bunch of Hockeyromances and I was sceptical at first. But it surpriced me and I couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait to read the next book!
February 10, 2026
This book was such a rollercoaster of emotions..I cried, laughed and giggled throughout the book..I think this book just healed a part of me which I didn’t know was broken..The way the plot flows is amazing and I couldn’t stop once I started reading it..PS:- I was awake till 5 A.M. ..and I know I can’t disclose much, but the chemistry between the MMC and FMC is 🤌🤌🤌..At last I would say that I learned an important lesson: sometimes getting hurt is worth it if you find love at last!!💜💜💜
ALSO..
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
ALSO..
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2026
I love the way Savannah and Noah meet and how genuinely their friendship begins to form. I would have loved more time with both of them as they move through this story. Sometimes the chapters felt very short and I would have loved to see how certain scenes would have played out but at the same time, the pacing kept me engaged all the way through.
February 7, 2026
ARC Review
I was lucky enough to be chosen to read an ARC for Novel Assist and it was a true 5 star read for me! It was a slow burn friends to lovers hockey romance. I absolutely loved Noah and Savannah and their story!
I was lucky enough to be chosen to read an ARC for Novel Assist and it was a true 5 star read for me! It was a slow burn friends to lovers hockey romance. I absolutely loved Noah and Savannah and their story!
March 28, 2026
ARC Opportunity from Book Sirens 🎣📕✨
Slow start but good vibes; Love the cover! The relationship between Izzie and Noah was truly adorable, we love a caring and supportive big brother! Savannah is a fantastic FMC, everything I could have wanted and more! Noah on the other hand… was quite frustrating when it came to his relationship with Savannah and his own character growth. Regardless, these characters literally came to life from the pages for me— The writing style was descriptive AND the dual POV was utilized to it’s maximum potential! While her connection with Noah felt instant, their tension and development was definitely giving a natural (but excruciating) slow-burn! Peaches is one of my new favorite nicknames. 🍑 The only things preventing it from being a 5-star read for me was the slow pace of the storyline (Will they? Won’t they?) and the small grammatical/spelling errors! Special mention for Lacey because she was one of my favorite characters in this book aside from Izzie and Savannah Banana! 🍌💗
College Romance 🏫
Friends with Benefits to Lovers ❤️🔥
“I bet you I could” 🤪
Forced Proximity 🤞🏻
Grumpy x Sunshine ⛅️
Found Family 🫂
Dedicated Older Brother MMC 🥰
Slow Burn 🕯️
Writer FMC 📖
Hockey Romance 🏒
Whole new meaning to “Hockey Coach” 😏
Slow start but good vibes; Love the cover! The relationship between Izzie and Noah was truly adorable, we love a caring and supportive big brother! Savannah is a fantastic FMC, everything I could have wanted and more! Noah on the other hand… was quite frustrating when it came to his relationship with Savannah and his own character growth. Regardless, these characters literally came to life from the pages for me— The writing style was descriptive AND the dual POV was utilized to it’s maximum potential! While her connection with Noah felt instant, their tension and development was definitely giving a natural (but excruciating) slow-burn! Peaches is one of my new favorite nicknames. 🍑 The only things preventing it from being a 5-star read for me was the slow pace of the storyline (Will they? Won’t they?) and the small grammatical/spelling errors! Special mention for Lacey because she was one of my favorite characters in this book aside from Izzie and Savannah Banana! 🍌💗
College Romance 🏫
Friends with Benefits to Lovers ❤️🔥
“I bet you I could” 🤪
Forced Proximity 🤞🏻
Grumpy x Sunshine ⛅️
Found Family 🫂
Dedicated Older Brother MMC 🥰
Slow Burn 🕯️
Writer FMC 📖
Hockey Romance 🏒
Whole new meaning to “Hockey Coach” 😏
April 20, 2026
This hockey romance delivers far more than the usual mix of locker-room banter and predictable chemistry. At its core, it’s a story about responsibility, trust, and the quiet ways people show up for each other when life gets heavy.
Noah isn’t just the stereotypical athlete, he’s carrying real weight with his mother’s depression and stepping into a caretaker role for his sister. That kind of responsibility naturally explains his resistance to relationships.
Savannah has a different but equally valid trust issue, growing up around fame has made her guarded, which adds tension in a subtler way than typical miscommunication tropes.
The “no strings attached” arrangement isn’t just a trope here, it actually ties into both of their emotional barriers (time constraints vs. trust issues), which gives it more depth.
The mutual growth especially through trust and communication, is really the heart of the story
Noah isn’t just the stereotypical athlete, he’s carrying real weight with his mother’s depression and stepping into a caretaker role for his sister. That kind of responsibility naturally explains his resistance to relationships.
Savannah has a different but equally valid trust issue, growing up around fame has made her guarded, which adds tension in a subtler way than typical miscommunication tropes.
The “no strings attached” arrangement isn’t just a trope here, it actually ties into both of their emotional barriers (time constraints vs. trust issues), which gives it more depth.
The mutual growth especially through trust and communication, is really the heart of the story
April 19, 2026
Recibí un ejemplar de este libro como Advanced Reader Copy (ARC).
Me encontré con una historia que definiría como el "libro pochoclero" por excelencia: es ideal para salir de un bloqueo lector o para cambiar a algo mas liviano después de una lectura muy pesada, ya que es ágil, entretenido y se lee prácticamente solo.
La trama nos presenta una relación de friends with benefits que se siente orgánica desde el principio.
Sin embargo, a pesar de ser una lectura disfrutable, sentí que le faltó un poco de profundidad. El trasfondo personal de Noah, con toda su carga familiar, se queda un poco en la superficie y no termina de explotar del todo.
El cierre me dejó con un poco de sabor a poco.
Es un libro de 3 estrellas que cumple con su función de entretener y dejarte con una sensación dulce, pero que no llega a romper el molde de lo que ya conocemos en este tipo de romances.
Me encontré con una historia que definiría como el "libro pochoclero" por excelencia: es ideal para salir de un bloqueo lector o para cambiar a algo mas liviano después de una lectura muy pesada, ya que es ágil, entretenido y se lee prácticamente solo.
La trama nos presenta una relación de friends with benefits que se siente orgánica desde el principio.
Sin embargo, a pesar de ser una lectura disfrutable, sentí que le faltó un poco de profundidad. El trasfondo personal de Noah, con toda su carga familiar, se queda un poco en la superficie y no termina de explotar del todo.
El cierre me dejó con un poco de sabor a poco.
Es un libro de 3 estrellas que cumple con su función de entretener y dejarte con una sensación dulce, pero que no llega a romper el molde de lo que ya conocemos en este tipo de romances.
Read
March 12, 2026crying
April 19, 2026
I absolutely love it when 2 characters strike up a mutually beneficial deal. It's one of my all-time favorites and the chemistry between Noah and Savannah is insane. I loved every minute of reading this. But, as much I adored the relationship between the two main characters, I couldn't get enough of Noah's teammates or Izzie. They truly brought me so much joy. 😊😊😊
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