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Against the Boards
1770 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 5, 2026
The storyline was good with the friendships and camaraderie between the group. I liked the book, but there were some repeating in the book and it was quite long, 1770 pages. Because of the length it took me longer to finish, because I read other books during reading it. I did not want to DNF it, I wanted to finish it because I liked the story.
May 12, 2026
This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, AND emotionally invested at the same time 🥹🏒💛
Grumpy girl x golden retriever hockey boy??
Forced proximity??
He falls first AND hard??
Yeah… this book absolutely had me from the start.
Casey was such a refreshing FMC because she’s sharp, independent, and completely unwilling to let people in easily. She’s carrying so much pressure and emotional self-protection under all that sarcasm, and it made her feel incredibly real.
And then there’s James 👀
Honestly??
He completely stole the show for me.
At first he seems like the classic charming hockey player, but the deeper the story goes, the more you realize how patient and genuine he actually is. He doesn’t just flirt with Casey—he shows up for her over and over again until she slowly starts believing she deserves someone who stays.
And THAT is what made this romance hit so hard emotionally.
The chemistry between them is amazing from the beginning. The banter is sharp, funny, and full of tension, but underneath it there’s this slow emotional build that makes every softer moment feel even more rewarding.
I also loved the hockey house/found family atmosphere SO much. The chaos, friendships, teasing, and team dynamic made the whole story feel warm and lived in beyond just the romance.
And honestly??
Watching James fall harder and harder while Casey desperately tries not to was one of the BEST parts 👀💛
✨ If you love: • college hockey romance
• grumpy girl x sunshine/golden retriever MMC
• forced proximity/project partners
• found family vibes
• emotionally supportive MMCs who fall first
This one is funny, sweet, spicy, and full of heart—I didn’t want to leave the hockey house
Grumpy girl x golden retriever hockey boy??
Forced proximity??
He falls first AND hard??
Yeah… this book absolutely had me from the start.
Casey was such a refreshing FMC because she’s sharp, independent, and completely unwilling to let people in easily. She’s carrying so much pressure and emotional self-protection under all that sarcasm, and it made her feel incredibly real.
And then there’s James 👀
Honestly??
He completely stole the show for me.
At first he seems like the classic charming hockey player, but the deeper the story goes, the more you realize how patient and genuine he actually is. He doesn’t just flirt with Casey—he shows up for her over and over again until she slowly starts believing she deserves someone who stays.
And THAT is what made this romance hit so hard emotionally.
The chemistry between them is amazing from the beginning. The banter is sharp, funny, and full of tension, but underneath it there’s this slow emotional build that makes every softer moment feel even more rewarding.
I also loved the hockey house/found family atmosphere SO much. The chaos, friendships, teasing, and team dynamic made the whole story feel warm and lived in beyond just the romance.
And honestly??
Watching James fall harder and harder while Casey desperately tries not to was one of the BEST parts 👀💛
✨ If you love: • college hockey romance
• grumpy girl x sunshine/golden retriever MMC
• forced proximity/project partners
• found family vibes
• emotionally supportive MMCs who fall first
This one is funny, sweet, spicy, and full of heart—I didn’t want to leave the hockey house
February 14, 2026
Okay sooo… this book was decently good, but whew it was a commitment. At over 1700 pages, this one took me a minute to get through. 😅 I’m not even mad about long books, but the emotional back-and-forth between them wanting a relationship and then not wanting one… over and over… gave me serious whiplash.
I will say — the banter? Chef’s kiss. 👏 I genuinely loved their chemistry when they were just being together. And I adored how close she is with Parker. Those friendship moments felt authentic and grounding.
There were definitely parts that felt super relatable, which kept me invested. But at the same time, there were stretches that dragged and honestly could’ve been tightened up. There are also a lot of side characters — I get that it’s probably setting up future books, but it felt overwhelming at times.
Overall: solid read, just needed some trimming and less emotional ping-pong for me. 💭
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
I will say — the banter? Chef’s kiss. 👏 I genuinely loved their chemistry when they were just being together. And I adored how close she is with Parker. Those friendship moments felt authentic and grounding.
There were definitely parts that felt super relatable, which kept me invested. But at the same time, there were stretches that dragged and honestly could’ve been tightened up. There are also a lot of side characters — I get that it’s probably setting up future books, but it felt overwhelming at times.
Overall: solid read, just needed some trimming and less emotional ping-pong for me. 💭
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
February 19, 2026
The book started off well with a good storyline of friends, college, sport and the daily ins and outs of young adulthood. This book was a massive 1766 pages. There were parts that were repeated and lots of inconsistencies (one part said James was there with his friends and then in the next sentence it said ‘James walked in’). I would consider turning this into two books or condensing the book due to it being so large. There was definitely parts that could have been left out and felt like it was going around in circles. I would like to see what the next book will be like but would skip it if its length is anything like this one.
The banter and chemistry between Casey and James was well written. The friendships were in depth and thought out.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The banter and chemistry between Casey and James was well written. The friendships were in depth and thought out.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 2, 2026
Overall, this was a very cute story, though I do think it could have been shorter. There was quite a bit of back-and-forth that felt repetitive at times, with similar narrative points revisited over and over. Occasionally, the storytelling also felt inconsistent—certain moments were presented as if they were brand new revelations, even though the characters had already experienced or discussed them. For example, it was a bit confusing when the narrative suggested Casey didn’t really know the hockey guys well, despite her clearly spending a lot of time with them throughout the story.
That said, I absolutely loved the banter between the characters. Strong banter is one of my favorite elements in a book, and this story definitely delivered in that department. If you’re a fan of slow burns, this one is an extreme slow burn—very much leaning toward a YA vibe rather than a spicy adult romance.
All in all, this was a sweet, cutesy read with genuinely wonderful characters. While it wasn’t perfect, it was still an enjoyable story with plenty of charm.
That said, I absolutely loved the banter between the characters. Strong banter is one of my favorite elements in a book, and this story definitely delivered in that department. If you’re a fan of slow burns, this one is an extreme slow burn—very much leaning toward a YA vibe rather than a spicy adult romance.
All in all, this was a sweet, cutesy read with genuinely wonderful characters. While it wasn’t perfect, it was still an enjoyable story with plenty of charm.
February 22, 2026
I loved this story and really enjoyed reading it. It kept me entertained with very few lulls despite its length. The characters are awesome. The banter and camaraderie is fantastic. It could have used a little more spice for me but I would say it was great for a YA audience. I was sucked into the story right away. I can see it becoming a series in the future. It has potential to be absolutely amazing but needs some more editing. It has spelling, punctuation errors, some repetition and some inconsistencies. I also felt that it could be trimmed down some to improve on the length and tighten up the story by omitting some irrelevant details as it was very long for a romance novel. Did the errors and length take away from it? A little but not enough that I gave up on it. If you like sports romance and a detailed timeline then you will love this book and the characters!
February 28, 2026
Unfortunately, I ended up DNF’ing this one.
The writing itself was strong, and the banter between the characters was genuinely entertaining — easily one of the book’s biggest highlights. I really enjoyed the beginning and went in fully expecting to see it through to the end.
However, at around 1,700 pages, the length became difficult to ignore. While the story had great moments, it often felt repetitive, and several scenes were drawn out far longer than necessary. At times, it became a bit tedious and time-consuming to push through.
That said, if your trope is a drawn-out slow burn, then this is most definitely for you. The tension builds gradually and lingers for a long time, which will absolutely appeal to readers who love that style.
I truly think that with tighter editing and a shorter page count, this could have been an incredible read. The potential was definitely there — it just needed a bit more restraint in execution.
The writing itself was strong, and the banter between the characters was genuinely entertaining — easily one of the book’s biggest highlights. I really enjoyed the beginning and went in fully expecting to see it through to the end.
However, at around 1,700 pages, the length became difficult to ignore. While the story had great moments, it often felt repetitive, and several scenes were drawn out far longer than necessary. At times, it became a bit tedious and time-consuming to push through.
That said, if your trope is a drawn-out slow burn, then this is most definitely for you. The tension builds gradually and lingers for a long time, which will absolutely appeal to readers who love that style.
I truly think that with tighter editing and a shorter page count, this could have been an incredible read. The potential was definitely there — it just needed a bit more restraint in execution.
February 4, 2026
A forewarning: this book is not for the weak of will. Well, not really, I'm kidding, sort of. The thing is, this book is significantly longer than your average contemporary romance novel, and it requires serious commitment.
Now that that's out of the way, let's go to the review proper.
The characters you meet at the beginning of the story are not the same people you will grow to be fond of at the end. If there's something that this book effectively illustrates, that is growth. I had to exercise temperance and patience as I read through how they navigated young adulthood and personal relationships.
The second thing I really liked about this book is that it showcases love in a found family. So much so that there were instances during my reading that I kept asking myself if I'm still reading a romance novel. This book is so much more than the romance aspect, and felt more like a novel about young-adulthood, which technically, it is as well.
If I had to choose a character that really stood out to me, it would be Julien. I love me some of that fun bilingual golden retriever energy, and who is guaranteed to know how to French kiss. His energy would probably drain me but I feel like we could be real buds.
Now, let me go back to the first thing I said about this book -- its length. Honestly, I think that there were too many filler scenes in between the real plot devices. There were instances during my reading where I surfaced and asked myself, "What's going to happen next?", or "Where is this book even going?", because there were too many lulls in between the plot twists. There were too many parties, and too many dates on-page, and while they are okay, they did not really move the plot along all that much. I think this is what really affected my enjoyment of this story.
All in all though, this is a solid contemporary romance novel with character growth, but be sure to read it with patience, because it is a lot. And for all it's worth, there is happiness at the end.
Disclaimer: I was given a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Now that that's out of the way, let's go to the review proper.
The characters you meet at the beginning of the story are not the same people you will grow to be fond of at the end. If there's something that this book effectively illustrates, that is growth. I had to exercise temperance and patience as I read through how they navigated young adulthood and personal relationships.
The second thing I really liked about this book is that it showcases love in a found family. So much so that there were instances during my reading that I kept asking myself if I'm still reading a romance novel. This book is so much more than the romance aspect, and felt more like a novel about young-adulthood, which technically, it is as well.
If I had to choose a character that really stood out to me, it would be Julien. I love me some of that fun bilingual golden retriever energy, and who is guaranteed to know how to French kiss. His energy would probably drain me but I feel like we could be real buds.
Now, let me go back to the first thing I said about this book -- its length. Honestly, I think that there were too many filler scenes in between the real plot devices. There were instances during my reading where I surfaced and asked myself, "What's going to happen next?", or "Where is this book even going?", because there were too many lulls in between the plot twists. There were too many parties, and too many dates on-page, and while they are okay, they did not really move the plot along all that much. I think this is what really affected my enjoyment of this story.
All in all though, this is a solid contemporary romance novel with character growth, but be sure to read it with patience, because it is a lot. And for all it's worth, there is happiness at the end.
Disclaimer: I was given a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for a review.
February 6, 2026
Omg where do I even begin. I absolutely love the story and the plat. The characters are wonderful and the way they are all described lets you picture them perfectly. It was a bit long, my longest book in a long time but so worth it. Casey and James are picture perfect and it was great to read about them. Not a perfect life but one that allowed them to mesh well with each other. I can not wait to read the others.
March 9, 2026
I read this book as an ARC read. It took me a long time to read with 1700 pages.
I loved the story line and the characters with their camaraderie but it could have been shorter by over 1000 pages. A lot of parts were repeated in words and the spelling was a little choppy.
James and Casey had great chemistry and I liked the banter. The rest of the characters were a lot of fun to read about including Julien.
I loved the story line and the characters with their camaraderie but it could have been shorter by over 1000 pages. A lot of parts were repeated in words and the spelling was a little choppy.
James and Casey had great chemistry and I liked the banter. The rest of the characters were a lot of fun to read about including Julien.
May 13, 2026
This was a good book it did take me longer to read with it having 1770 pages being able to ARC read it I was honored James and Casey banter was so funny but I love the best friend ship that Parker and Casey have the car accident with Parker and Casey shattered me it really shows how much they both care for each other
May 15, 2026
This book was good but boy was it a commitment. The storyline was great. I loved the chemistry between Casey and James and the entire group as a whole. It’s a very very very slow burn which usually isn’t my style at all. I did find that some things repeated a lot or were changed a few pages after the fact. With some length tightening, I think this could’ve been an amazing book. I’m interested to see what book 2 brings.
February 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this book so much! At certain parts of reading I really didn’t want to stop reading even though I had to! The characters interacted with each other perfectly and the banter is what I feel actually made me rate it a 5!
May 13, 2026
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book this well-developed and immersive. Some may find it long, but it honestly feels like several great books in one. Casey & James created a truly unforgettable story.
May 15, 2026
too slow
I was enjoying this book by my god it felt like it was taking forever for anything to actually happen, looked at how many pages I had read and it said 306!! Over 1000 pages long, I couldn’t read on. Too slow. Such a shame as it was actually ok but really needs to pick up speed.
I was enjoying this book by my god it felt like it was taking forever for anything to actually happen, looked at how many pages I had read and it said 306!! Over 1000 pages long, I couldn’t read on. Too slow. Such a shame as it was actually ok but really needs to pick up speed.
January 30, 2026
I loved this book and would definitely read again. the friend group is great, the banter is funny and cute. overall very cute read.
February 1, 2026
The friendships we wish we had
The friendships and comraderie between this friends group is everything we wish we all had during college years and adult years. The book did have quite a few repeats that showed up, but the storyline and feelings were amazing.
The friendships and comraderie between this friends group is everything we wish we all had during college years and adult years. The book did have quite a few repeats that showed up, but the storyline and feelings were amazing.
February 20, 2026
Great Characters!
The characters are so much fun. We all have those friends that are considered your tribe and this book does a great job of following those relationships.
The characters are so much fun. We all have those friends that are considered your tribe and this book does a great job of following those relationships.
May 3, 2026
I loved this book!!! It is absolutely by far the longest book I have ever read, but I enjoyed every page. The lifelong friendships are amazing. I just love Casey & James!!!!
February 22, 2026
Loved it so much
February 16, 2026
ok
Good storyline , but felt the book was really drawn in the first half of it and quite repetitive in some places . Could have cut the amount of pages in half and would have been a fantastic story
Good storyline , but felt the book was really drawn in the first half of it and quite repetitive in some places . Could have cut the amount of pages in half and would have been a fantastic story
March 1, 2026
Great plot, great character development. Serious commitment of a contemporary romance at 1770 pages.
I was hooked from the beginning with how relatable some of the characters are. Brought me back to reliving some of my college days. I loved the banter between characters & the forced family trope.
Several parts were really heartfelt and tugged at my emotions. Those were really well written. There seemed to be lots of “filler” parts where it felt like a repeat of previous events. At times I found myself questioning if my kindle had jumped back a few pages and I was rereading pages.
Overall, I think it was good.
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was hooked from the beginning with how relatable some of the characters are. Brought me back to reliving some of my college days. I loved the banter between characters & the forced family trope.
Several parts were really heartfelt and tugged at my emotions. Those were really well written. There seemed to be lots of “filler” parts where it felt like a repeat of previous events. At times I found myself questioning if my kindle had jumped back a few pages and I was rereading pages.
Overall, I think it was good.
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2026
Loved this book. Fell in love with the characters. But it was so so long.
March 15, 2026
While I liked this book, I can’t decide if it gets 3.5 stars or 4 stars. I really liked the characters. I liked the banter between the characters. I liked the storyline.
I didn’t like the length of the book. 1700+ pages are way too much for a romance book, like this one. Some repetitive paragraphs could be cut out to help make it shorter.
I would love to see this one edited better and cut down to under 400 pages. I would read it again when those were done.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I didn’t like the length of the book. 1700+ pages are way too much for a romance book, like this one. Some repetitive paragraphs could be cut out to help make it shorter.
I would love to see this one edited better and cut down to under 400 pages. I would read it again when those were done.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 18, 2026
Really enjoyed reading this book, didn't want to put it down at times.
Loved the friends group, the fun, emotions and especially the banter between them all.
Liked how it wasn't just all easy life for the characters, but still such a nice read too.
Great if your into Sports romance, collage hockey, grumpy girl/golden retriever energy boy, hockey house chaos.
Thanks for letting me read your book Caitlyn Best!
Loved the friends group, the fun, emotions and especially the banter between them all.
Liked how it wasn't just all easy life for the characters, but still such a nice read too.
Great if your into Sports romance, collage hockey, grumpy girl/golden retriever energy boy, hockey house chaos.
Thanks for letting me read your book Caitlyn Best!
April 30, 2026
The friendships and banter made this a fun read.
January 30, 2026
Where do I even start with this book? First. WOW. Just wow. This (almost obviously) has been my longest read of the year and. I loved it. It’s a slice of life show written down. This is the rom-com you loved but always wanted more of. You get the play by play, the weekly events, the daily events even. The beginning third is a set up and everything else after falls into place so perfectly. The way this author describes feelings is so perfect and so beautiful that I want them to see all of my memories and write me a book about. I remember getting to maybe chapter 34/35/36ish and just thinking how warm it is. It feels like the softest blanket and pillow is wrapped around you. It makes you remember all those innocent moments at the start of a relationship and how loving they even if you don’t know that’s what it was.
It’s a beautiful story with character development and you’re really just along for the ride. There were things that I didn’t love (the excessive use of ‘chirp’- which to be fair, at first I thought it was such a cute term but then it was everywhere), there were things that I thought could’ve been taken out or used in a different story line, but even then 5 stars. It’s just a nice read to come back to. If you feel the page length is daunting (it is a little), then read this in between other books. It’s a safe place to rest and is going to welcome you back without you having to remember 8000 plot lines. I would recommend this to anyone solely on the vibes it gave me!
It’s a beautiful story with character development and you’re really just along for the ride. There were things that I didn’t love (the excessive use of ‘chirp’- which to be fair, at first I thought it was such a cute term but then it was everywhere), there were things that I thought could’ve been taken out or used in a different story line, but even then 5 stars. It’s just a nice read to come back to. If you feel the page length is daunting (it is a little), then read this in between other books. It’s a safe place to rest and is going to welcome you back without you having to remember 8000 plot lines. I would recommend this to anyone solely on the vibes it gave me!
May 14, 2026
This was an epic book - 700+ pages and it didn't disappoint me.
The storyline is based on Casey and James who have known each other for years. Casey is off limits as she is the best friend of James ice hockey team captain - Parker.
This book did not have a lot of spice in it but I really enjoyed it. The storyline really delved into the background, emotions, friendship in the book not just for the main characters but Parker and others.
It is the longest book I have read in a while but really enjoyed it.
I look forward to the next book in the series. Caitlyn Best is a great author.
The storyline is based on Casey and James who have known each other for years. Casey is off limits as she is the best friend of James ice hockey team captain - Parker.
This book did not have a lot of spice in it but I really enjoyed it. The storyline really delved into the background, emotions, friendship in the book not just for the main characters but Parker and others.
It is the longest book I have read in a while but really enjoyed it.
I look forward to the next book in the series. Caitlyn Best is a great author.
May 11, 2026
This book is wow, I have no words I love the story, the plot. I love a good long read. The characters are described wonderfully. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
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