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Bar Down #1
The Plot Pact
From best selling author Cali Melle comes a new hockey romance filled with scorching tension, witty banter and a deal for the season between a hockey player with a reputation and a romance author who needs the story of a lifetime.
She writes love stories for a living. He doesn't believe in love.
When a terrible case of writer’s block has her career on the line, bestselling romance author Jade Wilson needs inspiration—and fast. If she can’t find a new muse soon, the publishing deal she’s about to secure is off the table. With her deadline approaching, Jade thinks she’s out of options, until she runs into him.
The only thing Matteo “Matty” Ford commits to is being the best player on the ice. He’s the type of guy to visit your bedroom, but never your family. He dates, but not for love, and with his team on a losing streak, he knows he can’t afford any distractions.
Until his teammates suggest that maybe he’s the reason behind their dry spell. Since he’s sworn off romance, he hasn’t scored a single goal.
And now, he’ll do anything to turn that around.
Enter The Plot Pact. Matty offers to help Jade with research for her new book while she becomes his carefully controlled distraction. It’s temporary, strategic, and it comes with one ironclad rule: no falling in love.
But as the season unfolds, the lines between research and reality blur. She’s writing the best story of her career, his team is on fire, and the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore.
What began as a calculated decision becomes dangerously real. Now they have to decide: was it all just for the plot or are they ready to risk everything for a chance at something real?
She writes love stories for a living. He doesn't believe in love.
When a terrible case of writer’s block has her career on the line, bestselling romance author Jade Wilson needs inspiration—and fast. If she can’t find a new muse soon, the publishing deal she’s about to secure is off the table. With her deadline approaching, Jade thinks she’s out of options, until she runs into him.
The only thing Matteo “Matty” Ford commits to is being the best player on the ice. He’s the type of guy to visit your bedroom, but never your family. He dates, but not for love, and with his team on a losing streak, he knows he can’t afford any distractions.
Until his teammates suggest that maybe he’s the reason behind their dry spell. Since he’s sworn off romance, he hasn’t scored a single goal.
And now, he’ll do anything to turn that around.
Enter The Plot Pact. Matty offers to help Jade with research for her new book while she becomes his carefully controlled distraction. It’s temporary, strategic, and it comes with one ironclad rule: no falling in love.
But as the season unfolds, the lines between research and reality blur. She’s writing the best story of her career, his team is on fire, and the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore.
What began as a calculated decision becomes dangerously real. Now they have to decide: was it all just for the plot or are they ready to risk everything for a chance at something real?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2026
About the author
Cali Melle
32 books1,426 followersCali Melle is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes sports romance that will pull at your heartstrings. You can always expect her stories to come fully equipped with heartthrobs and a happy ending, along with some steamy scenes.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 379 reviews
April 24, 2026
If you are looking for an addictive, lighthearted hockey romance that hits all the right tropes, The Plot Pact by Calie Melle is a must-add to your TBR list. This story delivers with a blend of spice and humor, centering on romance author Jade Wilson, who is battling a serious case of writer's block, and Matteo "Matty" Ford, a hockey captain who has sworn off love to focus on his game.
When their paths cross, they make a pact to help support each other as Jade writes her new book if she agrees to support him during his hockey season. Yes, it’s a classic rom-com trope involving boundaries, a fake-but-is-it? situationship, and strict, no-falling-in-love rules that inevitably spirals into something much more dangerous (and real).
The chemistry is undeniable from the start, and Melle does not shy away from the heat—this is definitely not a slow burn! Beyond the romance, the banter is incredibly sharp and funny. I particularly loved the camaraderie between the characters, including the witty exchanges within Jade’s friend group and Matteo’s hockey team. One of the absolute highlights was seeing the hockey team form a book club to read Jade’s work. It was incredibly charming and added such a fun layer to the found family vibes.
One of my favorite elements was realizing that the quotes at the beginning of each chapter were actually snippets from the book Jade was writing all along. It added such a clever meta-layer to the story and made her journey with writer's block feel so much more immersive. I also really appreciated how Melle utilized text message conversations throughout the book. While text threads in some novels can feel random or unnecessary, the text and group chats definitely kept the pace moving quickly and were genuinely funny. They added a cohesive layer to the banter and really strengthened the overall plot.
The Plot Pact is a fun, feel-good read that balances emotional growth with plenty of steam and laughter. If you love light-hearted sports romances with spice, you won't want to miss this one.
Perfect if you love:
🏒 Hockey Romances
🔥 Sports Romances with Spice
✨️ Opposites Attract
💙 Hockey Captain MMC
👀 Reformed Playboy
🏒 Ex's Rival
📚 Writer FMC
📝 Dealing with Writer's Block
😂 Funny Banter
🩷 Found Family
✨️ Kindle Unlimited Sports Romances
Thank you to The Smuthood, and the author, Calie Melle, for an advance reader copy of this book for review consideration. I am writing this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
When their paths cross, they make a pact to help support each other as Jade writes her new book if she agrees to support him during his hockey season. Yes, it’s a classic rom-com trope involving boundaries, a fake-but-is-it? situationship, and strict, no-falling-in-love rules that inevitably spirals into something much more dangerous (and real).
The chemistry is undeniable from the start, and Melle does not shy away from the heat—this is definitely not a slow burn! Beyond the romance, the banter is incredibly sharp and funny. I particularly loved the camaraderie between the characters, including the witty exchanges within Jade’s friend group and Matteo’s hockey team. One of the absolute highlights was seeing the hockey team form a book club to read Jade’s work. It was incredibly charming and added such a fun layer to the found family vibes.
One of my favorite elements was realizing that the quotes at the beginning of each chapter were actually snippets from the book Jade was writing all along. It added such a clever meta-layer to the story and made her journey with writer's block feel so much more immersive. I also really appreciated how Melle utilized text message conversations throughout the book. While text threads in some novels can feel random or unnecessary, the text and group chats definitely kept the pace moving quickly and were genuinely funny. They added a cohesive layer to the banter and really strengthened the overall plot.
The Plot Pact is a fun, feel-good read that balances emotional growth with plenty of steam and laughter. If you love light-hearted sports romances with spice, you won't want to miss this one.
Perfect if you love:
🏒 Hockey Romances
🔥 Sports Romances with Spice
✨️ Opposites Attract
💙 Hockey Captain MMC
👀 Reformed Playboy
🏒 Ex's Rival
📚 Writer FMC
📝 Dealing with Writer's Block
😂 Funny Banter
🩷 Found Family
✨️ Kindle Unlimited Sports Romances
Thank you to The Smuthood, and the author, Calie Melle, for an advance reader copy of this book for review consideration. I am writing this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
April 22, 2026
Getting my review deleted won't change anything bestie. 🤭 I'm framing the email I got from Goodreads Community guidelines printed. 😘
⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
No virgins
Manwhore/ playboy H
FWB arraignment (no falling in love rule)
OWD & OMD (ex is a rival)
HFN
It's so crowded on the seas!😊 Don't quit your day job girl. May this author have the day she deserves. ✨
⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
No virgins
Manwhore/ playboy H
FWB arraignment (no falling in love rule)
OWD & OMD (ex is a rival)
HFN
It's so crowded on the seas!😊 Don't quit your day job girl. May this author have the day she deserves. ✨
April 22, 2026
4🌟, 3🌶️
This was one of those reads that just felt easy in the best way.
It pulled me in quickly and kept me there, like a story you pick up for fun and suddenly cannot put down. Matteo and Jade had that effortless chemistry that makes everything feel natural and a little bit consuming.
The whole “no feelings” setup was exactly the kind of chaos I love, and watching Matteo slowly lose that battle was so satisfying. He starts off all charm and zero commitment, then quietly turns into someone who feels a lot more than he planned. Jade balances him so well, she is grounded, driven, and easy to root for, even when she is struggling. Their banter really carries the story, and even though parts of the emotional conflict did not hit as strongly as I wanted, their connection made it easy to stay invested.
It leans into familiar tropes, but does it in a way that feels warm and fun rather than predictable. It is light, a little spicy, and full of heart, even if it does not dig as deep in the second half as it could have.
A solid, feel good read that I would easily recommend.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Cali Melle & The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This was one of those reads that just felt easy in the best way.
It pulled me in quickly and kept me there, like a story you pick up for fun and suddenly cannot put down. Matteo and Jade had that effortless chemistry that makes everything feel natural and a little bit consuming.
The whole “no feelings” setup was exactly the kind of chaos I love, and watching Matteo slowly lose that battle was so satisfying. He starts off all charm and zero commitment, then quietly turns into someone who feels a lot more than he planned. Jade balances him so well, she is grounded, driven, and easy to root for, even when she is struggling. Their banter really carries the story, and even though parts of the emotional conflict did not hit as strongly as I wanted, their connection made it easy to stay invested.
It leans into familiar tropes, but does it in a way that feels warm and fun rather than predictable. It is light, a little spicy, and full of heart, even if it does not dig as deep in the second half as it could have.
A solid, feel good read that I would easily recommend.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Cali Melle & The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
April 14, 2026
[ arc review ]
matteo (matty) is a forward for the hillford ice hawks hockey team and jade wilson is a nyt best selling author (aka girlboss ofc). the hockey team has hit a rough patch, coincidentally during matteo's dry spell. And jade has hit writer’s block. and cue the meet cute, which was actually so romcom vibes, i loved it.
athletes and their superstitions… crazy? maybe. but this time it benefits both of them so why not… do it for the plot if I may? HAHAHAH no one’s laughing at my joke but me rn but anyways. matty offers to help jade with her book for research and inspiration purposes, while she basically is his distraction outside hockey, but not in THAT way… until, well as you can guess how that goes.
and you know i love me a good down bad man. matty is lowkey a sweetheart, like yeah he has a bad reputation that’s left to be desired buuuuuut I felt like he was actually willing to change his playboy ways to be with jade. she was a sunshine (with some cloudy days) type of girl, which so relatable and she seems to put a lot of pressure on herself, also relatable. but jade and matteo's banter and friendship (+ more) was so fun to read. oh guess what? they actually communicated when something felt off, HEY CRAZY I know, but it was great.
💌 hockey romance
💌 opposites attract
💌 friends (w/ benefits) to lovers
💌 he falls first & hard
overall, i really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for more in this series. i loved the team dynamic, and hope to see more of that book club.
the plot pact is the first book in the bar down series and releases april 17, 2026!!
matteo (matty) is a forward for the hillford ice hawks hockey team and jade wilson is a nyt best selling author (aka girlboss ofc). the hockey team has hit a rough patch, coincidentally during matteo's dry spell. And jade has hit writer’s block. and cue the meet cute, which was actually so romcom vibes, i loved it.
athletes and their superstitions… crazy? maybe. but this time it benefits both of them so why not… do it for the plot if I may? HAHAHAH no one’s laughing at my joke but me rn but anyways. matty offers to help jade with her book for research and inspiration purposes, while she basically is his distraction outside hockey, but not in THAT way… until, well as you can guess how that goes.
and you know i love me a good down bad man. matty is lowkey a sweetheart, like yeah he has a bad reputation that’s left to be desired buuuuuut I felt like he was actually willing to change his playboy ways to be with jade. she was a sunshine (with some cloudy days) type of girl, which so relatable and she seems to put a lot of pressure on herself, also relatable. but jade and matteo's banter and friendship (+ more) was so fun to read. oh guess what? they actually communicated when something felt off, HEY CRAZY I know, but it was great.
💌 hockey romance
💌 opposites attract
💌 friends (w/ benefits) to lovers
💌 he falls first & hard
overall, i really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for more in this series. i loved the team dynamic, and hope to see more of that book club.
the plot pact is the first book in the bar down series and releases april 17, 2026!!
April 17, 2026
I loved every single thing about this book 🥹 it almost felt like it healed something in me, Jade and Matteo are so so sweet.
They have the perfect meet cute, with an immediate connection and banter. They very quickly find out that they work well together, and that they can both benefit from helping each other out in their careers.
Matteo is such a breathe of fresh air, he’s so positive, happy and spreads so much joy around him. Even though he’s also a bit cocky and snarky, I think it goes sooo well with his persona. Jade is quite similar, but a bit more reserved, with a 0 tolerance for bullshit.
The fact that they communicate so well with each other is such a big thing, there’s no miscommunication, just two adults who express their thoughts and feelings (although they’re taking their sweet time hahah, but better late than never).
“Jade Wilson is everything I thought I never wanted… and everything I can’t imagine not having now.”
Thank you so much @authorcalimelle for the ARC, I ate this one up so quick!!
They have the perfect meet cute, with an immediate connection and banter. They very quickly find out that they work well together, and that they can both benefit from helping each other out in their careers.
Matteo is such a breathe of fresh air, he’s so positive, happy and spreads so much joy around him. Even though he’s also a bit cocky and snarky, I think it goes sooo well with his persona. Jade is quite similar, but a bit more reserved, with a 0 tolerance for bullshit.
The fact that they communicate so well with each other is such a big thing, there’s no miscommunication, just two adults who express their thoughts and feelings (although they’re taking their sweet time hahah, but better late than never).
“Jade Wilson is everything I thought I never wanted… and everything I can’t imagine not having now.”
Thank you so much @authorcalimelle for the ARC, I ate this one up so quick!!
April 4, 2026
The Plot Pact by Cali Melle eARC Review 💙
I have been absolutely feral for Matteo Ford’s story and it did not disappoint.
The cutest meet cute, which then leads to an agreement between Matteo and Jade which will benefit both of them. Jade needs a muse in order to come up with her next best selling book and Matteo needs a distraction to keep him performing how he needs to on the ice.
Cali’s writing is always a great time. This story was so sweet and filled with emotion, tension and amazing spice. This was such a fun time and I can’t wait for what Cali has in store for the rest of this Bar Down series.
What to expect:
Hockey Romance
Ex’s Rival
Reformed Playboy
Opposites Attract
Thank you so much Cali for the arc!
I have been absolutely feral for Matteo Ford’s story and it did not disappoint.
The cutest meet cute, which then leads to an agreement between Matteo and Jade which will benefit both of them. Jade needs a muse in order to come up with her next best selling book and Matteo needs a distraction to keep him performing how he needs to on the ice.
Cali’s writing is always a great time. This story was so sweet and filled with emotion, tension and amazing spice. This was such a fun time and I can’t wait for what Cali has in store for the rest of this Bar Down series.
What to expect:
Hockey Romance
Ex’s Rival
Reformed Playboy
Opposites Attract
Thank you so much Cali for the arc!
April 17, 2026
Such a good book and cute love story.
Thank you to the author for this early reading .
First of all I would like to say: how much I love second generation’s books.
This is the story of Matteo and Jade, but you know for sure Matteo from Cali’s previous series.
I loved so much this book, because the chemistry between the two characters was so good and honestly the banters made me laugh the entire reading.
For sure I can say that you have to read it, if you want something simple and cute to read, because this book was so funny and easy to read.
Thank you to the author for this early reading .
First of all I would like to say: how much I love second generation’s books.
This is the story of Matteo and Jade, but you know for sure Matteo from Cali’s previous series.
I loved so much this book, because the chemistry between the two characters was so good and honestly the banters made me laugh the entire reading.
For sure I can say that you have to read it, if you want something simple and cute to read, because this book was so funny and easy to read.
April 25, 2026
This one’s exactly what you pick up when you want something fun, a little spicy, and easy to fall into—but it also has just enough heart to keep you turning pages.
At first glance, the setup feels familiar: a romance author with writer’s block and a commitment-phobic hockey player strike a “no feelings” deal that obviously won’t stay that way. But honestly? It works. The chemistry between Jade and Matty carries the whole story, and their back-and-forth is where this book really shines. It’s sharp, playful, and feels natural—not forced or overly clever.
Jade is easy to root for. You feel her pressure, her frustration, and that quiet panic of possibly losing everything she’s worked for. Matty, on the other hand, could’ve been a cliché, but he’s more layered than expected. Yeah, he’s got the reputation and the ego, but there’s something a little softer underneath that slowly comes through as the story unfolds.
The “Plot Pact” is a fun hook, but what makes it work is how quickly the lines blur. What starts as research and a distraction turns into something messier and more real, and you can feel that shift happening—not all at once, but in small moments that build up. That tension is where the book really hits its stride.
The hockey backdrop adds energy without overwhelming the story. It’s there, it matters, but it never takes over. This is very much about the relationship—how it starts, how it grows, and how both of them have to confront the fact that they might actually want something real.
If there’s any downside, it’s that you can see where it’s heading pretty early on. But honestly, that’s part of the charm. You’re not reading this for surprises—you’re reading it for the ride.
Overall, it’s a solid, entertaining romance with great banter, strong chemistry, and just enough emotional weight to keep it from feeling shallow. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something light, engaging, and a little addictive.
At first glance, the setup feels familiar: a romance author with writer’s block and a commitment-phobic hockey player strike a “no feelings” deal that obviously won’t stay that way. But honestly? It works. The chemistry between Jade and Matty carries the whole story, and their back-and-forth is where this book really shines. It’s sharp, playful, and feels natural—not forced or overly clever.
Jade is easy to root for. You feel her pressure, her frustration, and that quiet panic of possibly losing everything she’s worked for. Matty, on the other hand, could’ve been a cliché, but he’s more layered than expected. Yeah, he’s got the reputation and the ego, but there’s something a little softer underneath that slowly comes through as the story unfolds.
The “Plot Pact” is a fun hook, but what makes it work is how quickly the lines blur. What starts as research and a distraction turns into something messier and more real, and you can feel that shift happening—not all at once, but in small moments that build up. That tension is where the book really hits its stride.
The hockey backdrop adds energy without overwhelming the story. It’s there, it matters, but it never takes over. This is very much about the relationship—how it starts, how it grows, and how both of them have to confront the fact that they might actually want something real.
If there’s any downside, it’s that you can see where it’s heading pretty early on. But honestly, that’s part of the charm. You’re not reading this for surprises—you’re reading it for the ride.
Overall, it’s a solid, entertaining romance with great banter, strong chemistry, and just enough emotional weight to keep it from feeling shallow. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something light, engaging, and a little addictive.
April 17, 2026
4,5 ✨
Is there crack in this book? I read this in less than 24h 😂
Hockey + book author = perfection
Full review coming soon!!
__
🏒💙 ARC Review of The Plot Pact by Cali Melle 💙🏒
First of all, a huge thank you to @authorcalimelle and @thesmuthood for this ARC - I devoured it in less than 24 hours (and no, not even on a weekend 😭). I was completely obsessed with these two 🫶
This book is such an easy, fun read, and as a hockey romance lover… this one just hit perfectly. And the fact that they made a *plot pact* to inspire her new novel?? Come on, that’s way too good not to love 🤭
The way their relationship developed felt so natural - I loved how they actually communicated, and how he never let her run away from things. Plus, that whole cozy family vibe? Absolutely adored it 💕
Now I just need Cali to write about *those two characters* next 👀 (pretty pleaseeeeee!)
This book is perfect for you if you like:
🏒Hockey Romance
⚡️Opposites Attract
😏 Reformed Playboy
💔 Ex’s Rival
🔥 Strangers to FWB
🤝 They Make a Deal
Is there crack in this book? I read this in less than 24h 😂
Hockey + book author = perfection
Full review coming soon!!
__
🏒💙 ARC Review of The Plot Pact by Cali Melle 💙🏒
First of all, a huge thank you to @authorcalimelle and @thesmuthood for this ARC - I devoured it in less than 24 hours (and no, not even on a weekend 😭). I was completely obsessed with these two 🫶
This book is such an easy, fun read, and as a hockey romance lover… this one just hit perfectly. And the fact that they made a *plot pact* to inspire her new novel?? Come on, that’s way too good not to love 🤭
The way their relationship developed felt so natural - I loved how they actually communicated, and how he never let her run away from things. Plus, that whole cozy family vibe? Absolutely adored it 💕
Now I just need Cali to write about *those two characters* next 👀 (pretty pleaseeeeee!)
This book is perfect for you if you like:
🏒Hockey Romance
⚡️Opposites Attract
😏 Reformed Playboy
💔 Ex’s Rival
🔥 Strangers to FWB
🤝 They Make a Deal
April 25, 2026
4.5 stars. So excited for the next gen of Aston Archers!
April 14, 2026
This book is the next generation to the Aston Archer series and I was so excited to read about Ford’s son!! Matteo was my favorite little boy in the first series and to get to read his love story was magical! I loved Jade and they were perfect for each other. Getting excited about the next book, super loved getting pieces of the parents and seeing how close all their children are was amazing! This book made me laugh out loud and definitely swoon. I absolutely recommend!
May 2, 2026
Was a little insta like but was cute and I enjoyed
April 17, 2026
ARC Review
I loved this book. I am a sucker for next gen series. I loved Jade. She is a writer who is going through a writers block. Then Matteo is also going through a series of loses on his games. They decide to come up with a pact since they have noticed an improvement upon meeting and both think is because of the other.
They spend time together helping be each other’s inspiration. Matteo doesn’t do love and has a playboy reputation. Jade doesn’t do hockey players but as they spend time together they can’t deny what they are feeling.
I love Cali’s writing and cannot wait to see whats next in this new series. I really enjoyed hearing from the characters in the previous series and seing where they are at.
-reformed playboy
-hockey romance
-opposites attract
I loved this book. I am a sucker for next gen series. I loved Jade. She is a writer who is going through a writers block. Then Matteo is also going through a series of loses on his games. They decide to come up with a pact since they have noticed an improvement upon meeting and both think is because of the other.
They spend time together helping be each other’s inspiration. Matteo doesn’t do love and has a playboy reputation. Jade doesn’t do hockey players but as they spend time together they can’t deny what they are feeling.
I love Cali’s writing and cannot wait to see whats next in this new series. I really enjoyed hearing from the characters in the previous series and seing where they are at.
-reformed playboy
-hockey romance
-opposites attract
April 19, 2026
Getting this ARC was exactly what I needed with the funk I've been in. And bonus that this is a next gen of the Aston Archer's series! I really loved every single thing in this book! From the meet cute to the friends with benefits and everything else, it got me giggling and kicking my feet!
I really loved the concept of the book. The arrangement that her and Mateo agreed on was so much fun to read about! Jade and Mateo's friendship was so cute and I loved how supportive and understanding they were with each other. And the communication between these two was perfect! Even though the two were afraid of attachment, they worked together really well as a couple. Also, I think what really made me love this more is how they helped each other find their spark with their passions again.
Special shout out to Mateo. I seriously love this man and he might be my favorite MMC that Cali Melle has written. From the getgo, he was doomed and fell so hard for Jade. I loved how he always kept her in mind and was considerate in every interaction. He’s such a gentleman and was absolutely perfect for Jade, always supporting her and helping her see her worth and talent. What made me standout was how he did everything to keep him and Jade together. He wanted the best of them and that meant doing things that scared both of them. Mateo has a heart of gold and is truly the best!
I feel like I say this every time Cali Melle drops a new book but this one has become my favorite. Last time I said this with Carson and Andi, but man do I love their son with his own book. Mateo and Jade are at the top right now! I can't wait to see what Cali comes up with next!
Thank you Cali Melle and The Smuthood for this ARC!
I really loved the concept of the book. The arrangement that her and Mateo agreed on was so much fun to read about! Jade and Mateo's friendship was so cute and I loved how supportive and understanding they were with each other. And the communication between these two was perfect! Even though the two were afraid of attachment, they worked together really well as a couple. Also, I think what really made me love this more is how they helped each other find their spark with their passions again.
Special shout out to Mateo. I seriously love this man and he might be my favorite MMC that Cali Melle has written. From the getgo, he was doomed and fell so hard for Jade. I loved how he always kept her in mind and was considerate in every interaction. He’s such a gentleman and was absolutely perfect for Jade, always supporting her and helping her see her worth and talent. What made me standout was how he did everything to keep him and Jade together. He wanted the best of them and that meant doing things that scared both of them. Mateo has a heart of gold and is truly the best!
I feel like I say this every time Cali Melle drops a new book but this one has become my favorite. Last time I said this with Carson and Andi, but man do I love their son with his own book. Mateo and Jade are at the top right now! I can't wait to see what Cali comes up with next!
Thank you Cali Melle and The Smuthood for this ARC!
April 23, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure to receive an ARC from the author of the book and The Smuthood, and I am leaving an honest review.
She needs a muse, he’s having needs a distraction. It’s a simple arrangement, until it isn’t.
This story follows Jade Wilson, a successful romance author who’s fighting writer’s block, and, Matteo Ford a hockey forward that having a hard time scoring on the ice, after the New Year’s Eve resolution not to have any distractions. They meet by chance twice and end up arranging a pact to help each other out.
The banter between the main characters is so good. Jade is so witty, so fast and intelligent. And Matteo doesn’t have any chance against her charm. He’s flirty, playful and respectful. They agreed not to catch feelings, but end up breaking that one rule. The way the author gave us this story made me connect with the characters: I felt Jade’s frustration and pressure to deliver a new book, and understood Matteo’s fear to have a new relationship. I love how they become friends with vulnerable moments and a ton of honesty. The way their relationship progresses felt so natural to me.
This was a easy, playful and fun read for me. If you love hockey romances, where the main characters communicate and are open to being vulnerable with each other, where the is a lot of tension and quick banter, this is a story for you.
Thank you Cali and The Smuthood for letting me be on this ARC Team.
She needs a muse, he’s having needs a distraction. It’s a simple arrangement, until it isn’t.
This story follows Jade Wilson, a successful romance author who’s fighting writer’s block, and, Matteo Ford a hockey forward that having a hard time scoring on the ice, after the New Year’s Eve resolution not to have any distractions. They meet by chance twice and end up arranging a pact to help each other out.
The banter between the main characters is so good. Jade is so witty, so fast and intelligent. And Matteo doesn’t have any chance against her charm. He’s flirty, playful and respectful. They agreed not to catch feelings, but end up breaking that one rule. The way the author gave us this story made me connect with the characters: I felt Jade’s frustration and pressure to deliver a new book, and understood Matteo’s fear to have a new relationship. I love how they become friends with vulnerable moments and a ton of honesty. The way their relationship progresses felt so natural to me.
This was a easy, playful and fun read for me. If you love hockey romances, where the main characters communicate and are open to being vulnerable with each other, where the is a lot of tension and quick banter, this is a story for you.
Thank you Cali and The Smuthood for letting me be on this ARC Team.
April 15, 2026
I love my hockey romances and a little friendship agreement goes a long freaking way. First the meet cute! Oh my gosh, from start to end this book was just pure sweet romcom energy and I loved it so much! I also just love it when the fmc is a romance writer but what was funny was that despite this, she was not a hopeless romantic, but in fact a realist who is afraid of attachment, especially to ahem “reformed” playboy athletes. In true romcom fashion their cute little plot pact soon becomes something much more and neither of them can resist the pull. BUTTT instead of a “fuck it” moment we get this super cute but also hilarious green flag moment when he pulls back and reaffirms boundaries which in my eyes, makes him EVEN HOTTER. Like Matteo was doomed from the second he met her, he was playing really and but two minutes of talking to her and he’s scoring hattricks on the ice, truly incredible and so adorable. One thing I loved was that each chapter started with a little quote from the story that he inspired her to write, which is Painted Inferno, an rivals to lovers artist romance. The plot was mostly full of sweet moments, but also a little bit of angst as Matteo has a dysfunctional childhood and we dive into his trauma. But it was a really lighthearted and super cute read that I recommended for any sports romance and romcom fan. I give it a 5/5
April 19, 2026
The Plot Pact
☕️👩💻🏒 I truly loved reading Jade and Matteo's story; it was impossible not to enjoy.
After the best meet cute I've read in a while, Jade and Matteo strike a mutually beneficial deal: Matteo helps Jade break through her writer’s block, while Jade becomes the perfect distraction to quiet Matteo’s overthinking on the ice. They have just one rule: don’t catch feelings.
Of course, that rule was never going to stand a chance.
What starts as a simple arrangement quickly evolves into something far more intimate with late night texts, calls, and visits that blur the lines between friendship and something more. Their progression from friends to friends with benefits felt natural, making the inevitable breaking of their one rule all the more impactful. Both struggle with deep rooted trust issues that test their relationship.
At its core, this story is about vulnerability—the kind that’s terrifying but necessary. Watching Jade and Matteo slowly let their walls down and learn to trust not only each other but also themselves is both tender and rewarding. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest risks, especially in love, are the ones most worth taking.
And that epilogue...swoon!
☕️👩💻🏒 I truly loved reading Jade and Matteo's story; it was impossible not to enjoy.
After the best meet cute I've read in a while, Jade and Matteo strike a mutually beneficial deal: Matteo helps Jade break through her writer’s block, while Jade becomes the perfect distraction to quiet Matteo’s overthinking on the ice. They have just one rule: don’t catch feelings.
Of course, that rule was never going to stand a chance.
What starts as a simple arrangement quickly evolves into something far more intimate with late night texts, calls, and visits that blur the lines between friendship and something more. Their progression from friends to friends with benefits felt natural, making the inevitable breaking of their one rule all the more impactful. Both struggle with deep rooted trust issues that test their relationship.
At its core, this story is about vulnerability—the kind that’s terrifying but necessary. Watching Jade and Matteo slowly let their walls down and learn to trust not only each other but also themselves is both tender and rewarding. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest risks, especially in love, are the ones most worth taking.
And that epilogue...swoon!
April 18, 2026
⭐️ARC Review⭐️
The Plot Pact by Cali Melle surprised me in the best way. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel seeing Carson and Andi older, since they’re the MMC’s parents, but it honestly didn’t bother me at all.
Matteo and Jade’s romance might be one of my favorites from Cali so far. They meet by chance in a coffee shop, and since Matteo is an NHL player, he becomes convinced Jade is his good luck charm after his performance improves following their meeting. It sounds a little silly at first, but it actually becomes a meaningful part of how their relationship develops.
I also loved that Jade is a bestselling author, and when she and Matteo enter a mutually beneficial arrangement to support their careers, it’s pretty obvious feelings are going to get involved, especially because they’ve both sworn off love. The side characters added a lot to the story, but my favorite part was how protective Matteo was of Jade and how firmly he stood up for her when it mattered most.
From start to finish, I couldn’t put this book down. The pacing was great, the format flowed so well, and Cali’s writing made it an engaging, easy read.
The Plot Pact by Cali Melle surprised me in the best way. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel seeing Carson and Andi older, since they’re the MMC’s parents, but it honestly didn’t bother me at all.
Matteo and Jade’s romance might be one of my favorites from Cali so far. They meet by chance in a coffee shop, and since Matteo is an NHL player, he becomes convinced Jade is his good luck charm after his performance improves following their meeting. It sounds a little silly at first, but it actually becomes a meaningful part of how their relationship develops.
I also loved that Jade is a bestselling author, and when she and Matteo enter a mutually beneficial arrangement to support their careers, it’s pretty obvious feelings are going to get involved, especially because they’ve both sworn off love. The side characters added a lot to the story, but my favorite part was how protective Matteo was of Jade and how firmly he stood up for her when it mattered most.
From start to finish, I couldn’t put this book down. The pacing was great, the format flowed so well, and Cali’s writing made it an engaging, easy read.
April 22, 2026
The Plot Pact is a cute, swoony, spicy romance! You won't be able to help but fall for the main characters! This book is about learning to trust in and allow yourself love and the way the author wrote it was absolute perfection!
Matteo and Jade are strangers but in their lives they both need some inspiration/distraction. Matteo is a star hockey player that can't seem to score a goal on the ice since swearing off dating. The team is on a losing streak and needs him to get back out there. Jade is a best selling author that has come down with a severe case of writer's block and is at risk of losing her book deal if she can't find something new and fresh to write. An absolutely perfect meet cute at the local coffee shop, another chance encounter at a bar, and one mutually beneficial deal later they have a Plot Pact! He helps her bounce ideas and she helps give him the off ice distraction he needs to be successful. No feelings, No s3x, just friends. Can they hold up the pact agreement or will they throw it all out the window?
Thank you so much, Cali Melle and The Smuthood for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book! I can't wait to see what's next!
Matteo and Jade are strangers but in their lives they both need some inspiration/distraction. Matteo is a star hockey player that can't seem to score a goal on the ice since swearing off dating. The team is on a losing streak and needs him to get back out there. Jade is a best selling author that has come down with a severe case of writer's block and is at risk of losing her book deal if she can't find something new and fresh to write. An absolutely perfect meet cute at the local coffee shop, another chance encounter at a bar, and one mutually beneficial deal later they have a Plot Pact! He helps her bounce ideas and she helps give him the off ice distraction he needs to be successful. No feelings, No s3x, just friends. Can they hold up the pact agreement or will they throw it all out the window?
Thank you so much, Cali Melle and The Smuthood for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book! I can't wait to see what's next!
April 11, 2026
This was the perfect light hockey romance between fantasy reads.
The Plot Pact is the first book in a new hockey series, with appearances from characters in Cali Melle’s previous series. I have not read the other series (yet) and can therefore confidently say this one does work on its own.
Jade is a romance writer with writer’s block. Matteo is a hockey player who doesn’t do love. So when a meet cute at a coffee shop brings them together, it’s the perfect set-up for their pact: to do it for the plot. But as they spend more time together, their unlikely friendship turns into real feelings. And sizzling chemistry!
I loved the premise and enjoyed the couple’s banter. And the hockey players’ book club group text has me eager for more of their stories!
Thanks to Cali Melle and The Smuthood for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
The Plot Pact is the first book in a new hockey series, with appearances from characters in Cali Melle’s previous series. I have not read the other series (yet) and can therefore confidently say this one does work on its own.
Jade is a romance writer with writer’s block. Matteo is a hockey player who doesn’t do love. So when a meet cute at a coffee shop brings them together, it’s the perfect set-up for their pact: to do it for the plot. But as they spend more time together, their unlikely friendship turns into real feelings. And sizzling chemistry!
I loved the premise and enjoyed the couple’s banter. And the hockey players’ book club group text has me eager for more of their stories!
Thanks to Cali Melle and The Smuthood for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
April 19, 2026
I was so sad when the Aston Archers series was over so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Matteo’s story! This was the perfect start to Cali’s second gen hockey series.
Matteo and Jade have an adorable meet cute that leads to a friendship where they make a pact that benefits the both of them. Matteo needs a distraction while off the ice and Jade needs inspiration for her most recent book. The only rule is neither one can catch feelings. Quickly, lines are blurred and neither one wants to pull out of their agreement.
Matteo is so sweet and had me swooning at how thoughtful he is! For someone that doesn’t believe in relationships, he really went out of his way to make Jade feel cared for and special. Jade is such a relatable FMC. She puts so much pressure on herself. I love how Matty helped her get out of her head.
This was such a sweet start to this series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Thank you Cali for the arc!
Read if you love:
✨hockey romance
✨rival’s ex
✨reformed playboy
✨opposites attract
Matteo and Jade have an adorable meet cute that leads to a friendship where they make a pact that benefits the both of them. Matteo needs a distraction while off the ice and Jade needs inspiration for her most recent book. The only rule is neither one can catch feelings. Quickly, lines are blurred and neither one wants to pull out of their agreement.
Matteo is so sweet and had me swooning at how thoughtful he is! For someone that doesn’t believe in relationships, he really went out of his way to make Jade feel cared for and special. Jade is such a relatable FMC. She puts so much pressure on herself. I love how Matty helped her get out of her head.
This was such a sweet start to this series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Thank you Cali for the arc!
Read if you love:
✨hockey romance
✨rival’s ex
✨reformed playboy
✨opposites attract
April 14, 2026
Matteo + Jade
-hockey romance
-ex’s rival
-reformed playboy
-opposites attract
-strangers to fwb
-he falls first & hard
this was a cute start to a potential fun next gen series! the backstories that drove both of the mcs decisions made this classic author needing help with writers block trope unique! i wish we'd have gotten a bit more of the tension that could come from ex's rival & more of the first gen connections tho!
-hockey romance
-ex’s rival
-reformed playboy
-opposites attract
-strangers to fwb
-he falls first & hard
this was a cute start to a potential fun next gen series! the backstories that drove both of the mcs decisions made this classic author needing help with writers block trope unique! i wish we'd have gotten a bit more of the tension that could come from ex's rival & more of the first gen connections tho!
May 3, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts below are my own.
This book follows Jade and Matteo, an unlikely couple. Jade is an author, stuck on what to write for the book her editor is demanding while Matteo is a hockey player who "lost his groove." After an accidental meeting at a coffee shop, the two make a "pact" in hopes of benefiting from each other.
Honestly I was completely hooked from the beginning. Jade is loveable and I could easily relate to her feelings throughout the story. Matteo is definitely a man I wouldn't mind meeting in real life either! I loved that he had different parts of him that we kept getting glimpses of!
The standout for me was having both points of view throughout the story because it helped me better understand the characters. I got to see the different layers of each characters emotions, and the clear communication between the two was *chef's kiss*.
Overall, I’d rate this 5/5 stars [3/5 spice] and recommend it to readers who enjoy love sports romance books.
What to Expect:
-Pro Hockey Player MMC
-Author FMC
-Opposites Attract
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review!
This book follows Jade and Matteo, an unlikely couple. Jade is an author, stuck on what to write for the book her editor is demanding while Matteo is a hockey player who "lost his groove." After an accidental meeting at a coffee shop, the two make a "pact" in hopes of benefiting from each other.
Honestly I was completely hooked from the beginning. Jade is loveable and I could easily relate to her feelings throughout the story. Matteo is definitely a man I wouldn't mind meeting in real life either! I loved that he had different parts of him that we kept getting glimpses of!
The standout for me was having both points of view throughout the story because it helped me better understand the characters. I got to see the different layers of each characters emotions, and the clear communication between the two was *chef's kiss*.
Overall, I’d rate this 5/5 stars [3/5 spice] and recommend it to readers who enjoy love sports romance books.
What to Expect:
-Pro Hockey Player MMC
-Author FMC
-Opposites Attract
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review!
April 23, 2026
4.5 🌟
Love me a second gen book. Started this last night and finished it my midday. Enjoyed this a lot. As a fan of the Aston archers series I’m excited to read their kids books now. Such a nice easy read and loved jade and matteo.
Love me a second gen book. Started this last night and finished it my midday. Enjoyed this a lot. As a fan of the Aston archers series I’m excited to read their kids books now. Such a nice easy read and loved jade and matteo.
April 18, 2026
Another hockey book that I couldn’t put down. I recommend reading this book if you like hockey romance.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
April 26, 2026
The Plot Pact (ARC review)
Thank you to Calli Melle for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review to come!
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
Thank you to Calli Melle for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review to come!
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
May 13, 2026
Swoooonnnnn
May 15, 2026
4.5⭐️
May 19, 2026
cringe
i’m sorry
i’m sorry
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