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Steel City #3
Staking Time
Ariana Forkerro’s life just fell apart.
She lost the dream job she’d spent her entire life working toward.
Running to Pittsburgh to stay with her brother, she’s desperate to forget her problems and focus on rebuilding her life some place far away from her disappointed parents. Getting back on her feet is easier when her brother’s best friend and linemate, the handsome Boston Black, is constantly around, just begging to be flirted with.
When it comes to him, the stakes are high, but she’s betting it all on Black.
Boston Black is a man who likes his privacy and his solitude.
He left his life behind when he made it to the big leagues and has spent years trying to get far away from the trauma of his childhood. He refuses to let anything, or anyone, disturb his peace now that he’s found it. That includes the beautiful—and completely off-limits—Ariana Forkerro, who has been trying to get a piece of him since the moment she laid eyes on him.
When circumstances force them into being each other’s date to a wedding, the growing tension is becoming harder to ignore. With her sights set on him now more than ever, it’s only a matter of time before they finally storm right over that line they shouldn’t cross and fall into each other’s beds.
There are only two rules.
One: neither of them are allowed to fall in love.
Two: Carter Forkerro cannot, under any circumstances, find out that his best friend is hooking up with his little sister.
Staking Time is a story about going after what you want. It’s about forgiving yourself for the ghosts of your past, and not letting them haunt your future. It’s about allowing yourself to change your mind when you decide you want something different out of life.
Most of all, this novel is for anyone who has ever had a crush on your brother’s best friend. Tempting, isn’t it?
She lost the dream job she’d spent her entire life working toward.
Running to Pittsburgh to stay with her brother, she’s desperate to forget her problems and focus on rebuilding her life some place far away from her disappointed parents. Getting back on her feet is easier when her brother’s best friend and linemate, the handsome Boston Black, is constantly around, just begging to be flirted with.
When it comes to him, the stakes are high, but she’s betting it all on Black.
Boston Black is a man who likes his privacy and his solitude.
He left his life behind when he made it to the big leagues and has spent years trying to get far away from the trauma of his childhood. He refuses to let anything, or anyone, disturb his peace now that he’s found it. That includes the beautiful—and completely off-limits—Ariana Forkerro, who has been trying to get a piece of him since the moment she laid eyes on him.
When circumstances force them into being each other’s date to a wedding, the growing tension is becoming harder to ignore. With her sights set on him now more than ever, it’s only a matter of time before they finally storm right over that line they shouldn’t cross and fall into each other’s beds.
There are only two rules.
One: neither of them are allowed to fall in love.
Two: Carter Forkerro cannot, under any circumstances, find out that his best friend is hooking up with his little sister.
Staking Time is a story about going after what you want. It’s about forgiving yourself for the ghosts of your past, and not letting them haunt your future. It’s about allowing yourself to change your mind when you decide you want something different out of life.
Most of all, this novel is for anyone who has ever had a crush on your brother’s best friend. Tempting, isn’t it?
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so lucky to receive an advance copy of this book and I absolutely ADORE it!
From the first chapter I was hooked. Boston and Ari felt so real and layered, and I found myself thinking about them long after I was done. I became attached to them, I was rooting for them, hurting with them and yelling at them. I felt like we were truly friends.
Angelia created a world that was easy to feel like you were apart of. I kept saying one more chapter until it was 4am and I was finished, I really couldn’t put it down. The power Angelia has with words is amazing, she can make you laugh and cry! AND she brought the crew back you can’t ask for more! I was so excited to have them all back in my life, I missed them.
You can truly feel the heart that she poured into this story.
If you’re looking for a book that pulls you in and keeps you emotionally invested the entire time, THIS IS IT!
Now I’m begging for the next one!
From the first chapter I was hooked. Boston and Ari felt so real and layered, and I found myself thinking about them long after I was done. I became attached to them, I was rooting for them, hurting with them and yelling at them. I felt like we were truly friends.
Angelia created a world that was easy to feel like you were apart of. I kept saying one more chapter until it was 4am and I was finished, I really couldn’t put it down. The power Angelia has with words is amazing, she can make you laugh and cry! AND she brought the crew back you can’t ask for more! I was so excited to have them all back in my life, I missed them.
You can truly feel the heart that she poured into this story.
If you’re looking for a book that pulls you in and keeps you emotionally invested the entire time, THIS IS IT!
Now I’m begging for the next one!
June 25, 2026
Well these books just keep getting better. I didn’t think anyone in this series could beat Carter Forkerro but Boston Black certainly did.
The trauma he has been through in his life, but is still a genuine, nice guy who believes he doesnt wants to find love. That is until Ariana Forkerro bulldozes into his life.i loved Ariana and the way she flirted and tormented Boston in the beginning had me giggling. They were just perfect for eachother.
Brother’s best friend trope will always be one of my favourites. But when that brother is Carter Forkerro I knew it was going to get messy before they got their HEA.
Praying now that Lemmy gets her own book. She was a big part of boston’s story and would love find out more about her story and she deserves her HEA too.
The trauma he has been through in his life, but is still a genuine, nice guy who believes he doesnt wants to find love. That is until Ariana Forkerro bulldozes into his life.i loved Ariana and the way she flirted and tormented Boston in the beginning had me giggling. They were just perfect for eachother.
Brother’s best friend trope will always be one of my favourites. But when that brother is Carter Forkerro I knew it was going to get messy before they got their HEA.
Praying now that Lemmy gets her own book. She was a big part of boston’s story and would love find out more about her story and she deserves her HEA too.
June 7, 2026
She has done it yet again. I reached for this book everytime I had a spare second to read. I am so emotionally attached to all of these characters. They make you feel everything they are going through whether it’s happy, sad or in between. Angelia also handled writing about very difficult topics with grace. I was living for the game between Ariana and Boston. Not to mention brother’s best friend being one of my favorite tropes. I was kicking my feet rooting for them. I cannot wait for whatever comes next for this series!
June 11, 2026
If you love complex, emotional characters, found family, and a little (or a lot) or drama, the Steel City series is for you. And man oh man, Angelia has done it again!
I loved Ari from the moment we first met her in book 1, and Boston Black intrigued me from the first moment we saw him on page. Put those two together though, and BAM! Sparks fly.
Boston's backstory had me in tears, and Ari's story was so relatable. I love this series because I truly have been able to find a little piece of myself in every single book. Angelia has a way of infusing her characters with messy emotions that expose the darkest parts of them, but she always has them crawl through that mess, growing and finding their strength (with the help of their found family) along the way.
Each character has their own stuff they have to work through, but the way Ari and Boston helped each other by truly SEEING the other was magic on page. Boston truly listened to Ari, and she slowly began to see herself how he saw her. She fell back in love with herself as they fell in love with each other. And as for Ariana, she made Boston feel safe - for the first time in a long time - and opened his eyes to a whole new way life could play out.
Now, one of my absolute favorite parts of this series is the found family. I LOVED seeing the Crew (love them forever, no parole) back together. We were FED whole ass meals about Lucky and Lowesy - enough so that I am immediately going back and picking up their book when I finish writing this.
Overall, an amazing read. I am attached to these characters in such a deep way. I'm in for life. No parole. <3
I loved Ari from the moment we first met her in book 1, and Boston Black intrigued me from the first moment we saw him on page. Put those two together though, and BAM! Sparks fly.
Boston's backstory had me in tears, and Ari's story was so relatable. I love this series because I truly have been able to find a little piece of myself in every single book. Angelia has a way of infusing her characters with messy emotions that expose the darkest parts of them, but she always has them crawl through that mess, growing and finding their strength (with the help of their found family) along the way.
Each character has their own stuff they have to work through, but the way Ari and Boston helped each other by truly SEEING the other was magic on page. Boston truly listened to Ari, and she slowly began to see herself how he saw her. She fell back in love with herself as they fell in love with each other. And as for Ariana, she made Boston feel safe - for the first time in a long time - and opened his eyes to a whole new way life could play out.
Now, one of my absolute favorite parts of this series is the found family. I LOVED seeing the Crew (love them forever, no parole) back together. We were FED whole ass meals about Lucky and Lowesy - enough so that I am immediately going back and picking up their book when I finish writing this.
Overall, an amazing read. I am attached to these characters in such a deep way. I'm in for life. No parole. <3
June 4, 2026
✨ ARC review ✨
Angelia pours her heart and soul into these books and it shows!! Just like the other two books in this series, I’m in love. Boston Black is definitely on my book boyfriend list. Also like the other books, Angelia pulled at my heartstrings.
Ari and Boston both have such emotional family dynamics, in different ways, that I can understand why dating can be tough for both of them. I find their characters so real and raw. Some points with Ari really hit me, especially comparing where you are in life and your career with others your age. I loved her character so much because she stuck her ground and push through to have a great career in the end because of the support she had from those around her.
The chemistry was flying off the pages with these two! Brother’s Best Friend & Forbidden Love are some of my favorite tropes and I loved Ari & Boston’s relationship. The sneaking around is so fun to read and I feel like it brings such natural love to their relationship without them realizing it. The last 15-20% of the book really had me emotional and wanting to just talk to the characters myself to fix everything 😂
Angelia never disappoints & I absolutely cannot wait for book 4!
My favorite quote that I absolutely love with all my heart:
“Don’t let go of someone who infuses your life with sunshine. For those of us who are dark and stormy, that light can change the view.”
Thank you so much Angelia for the ARC to Staking Time! Out for purchase and on Kindle Unlimited June 11th!
Angelia pours her heart and soul into these books and it shows!! Just like the other two books in this series, I’m in love. Boston Black is definitely on my book boyfriend list. Also like the other books, Angelia pulled at my heartstrings.
Ari and Boston both have such emotional family dynamics, in different ways, that I can understand why dating can be tough for both of them. I find their characters so real and raw. Some points with Ari really hit me, especially comparing where you are in life and your career with others your age. I loved her character so much because she stuck her ground and push through to have a great career in the end because of the support she had from those around her.
The chemistry was flying off the pages with these two! Brother’s Best Friend & Forbidden Love are some of my favorite tropes and I loved Ari & Boston’s relationship. The sneaking around is so fun to read and I feel like it brings such natural love to their relationship without them realizing it. The last 15-20% of the book really had me emotional and wanting to just talk to the characters myself to fix everything 😂
Angelia never disappoints & I absolutely cannot wait for book 4!
My favorite quote that I absolutely love with all my heart:
“Don’t let go of someone who infuses your life with sunshine. For those of us who are dark and stormy, that light can change the view.”
Thank you so much Angelia for the ARC to Staking Time! Out for purchase and on Kindle Unlimited June 11th!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It comes as no surprise that Angelia has done it again.
Boston Black, our silent but deadly farm boy who is adamant he doesn’t need anyone to fix him, until we dive deeper into everyone’s favourite golden retriever girly pop Ariana Forkerro.
Angelia does an amazing job of getting the reader into Bostons hard exterior, she pulls you into his background and has you understanding why he keeps everyone at arms length, and once Ariana enters the chat Bostons starts pushing his own boundaries, letting this intoxicating woman into his bubble. There’s just something about her that has him wanting/needing more and more.
Ariana Forkerro is your best friend from the start. She’s bubbly, she’s driven and well.. she’s Carters little sister, what could go wrong? Ariana is constantly trying to live up to everyone’s expectations. She’s your classic undiagnosed ADHD girl who is never allowed to make her own choices, whether it’s her dad telling her she could be doing more or her brother telling her to stop doing too much. Angelia really dives into those girls who are sick of always reaching for the stars and still feeling like second fiddle. Ariana is ready to do something for herself.
The crew is back, and they’re bringing the laughs, the tears and the dramaaaa!!!
This book had me hooked from start to finish, probably my favourite of the series so far. The writing is spectacular and once it’s over you’ll be craving more.
Boston Black, our silent but deadly farm boy who is adamant he doesn’t need anyone to fix him, until we dive deeper into everyone’s favourite golden retriever girly pop Ariana Forkerro.
Angelia does an amazing job of getting the reader into Bostons hard exterior, she pulls you into his background and has you understanding why he keeps everyone at arms length, and once Ariana enters the chat Bostons starts pushing his own boundaries, letting this intoxicating woman into his bubble. There’s just something about her that has him wanting/needing more and more.
Ariana Forkerro is your best friend from the start. She’s bubbly, she’s driven and well.. she’s Carters little sister, what could go wrong? Ariana is constantly trying to live up to everyone’s expectations. She’s your classic undiagnosed ADHD girl who is never allowed to make her own choices, whether it’s her dad telling her she could be doing more or her brother telling her to stop doing too much. Angelia really dives into those girls who are sick of always reaching for the stars and still feeling like second fiddle. Ariana is ready to do something for herself.
The crew is back, and they’re bringing the laughs, the tears and the dramaaaa!!!
This book had me hooked from start to finish, probably my favourite of the series so far. The writing is spectacular and once it’s over you’ll be craving more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC and couldn’t be more grateful.
I have many notes, but for now I’ll share the spoiler free version:
🍸brother’s best friend/teammate
💕forbidden romance
🍸 hockey romance
💕 grumpy x sunshine
Angelia has done it yet again, absolutely smashing it out of the park. Her writing pulls you back into the ever-entertaining lives of the crew and everyone around them.
Boston Black 👀 I see you baby and I can fix you.
Boston and Ariana’s story just so happens to be one of my top two favourite tropes 🫣 (brothers best friend)
Angelia writes friendship so beautifully. You get to see the complexity, the depth, the trust and love this group has for one another. You’re experiencing everything firsthand with them as if you were actually there. You feel apart of their group and understand them on another level. When I tell you that my jaw dropped a million times, I laughed, I cried, I felt the grief/guilt that was wrapped around Boston and wanted to hold him in my arms.
Angelia’s writing is refreshing, fun, and honestly makes me a better writer. Not only is she fabulous, but she’s an amazing author with a killer series. Trust me on this one. I cannot recommend Staking Time and the Steel City series enough.
5/5 ⭐️
Oh and Angelia, if you’re reading this — give me Wyatt and Saltzy’s book or I might go feral. All the love 🫶🏻
I have many notes, but for now I’ll share the spoiler free version:
🍸brother’s best friend/teammate
💕forbidden romance
🍸 hockey romance
💕 grumpy x sunshine
Angelia has done it yet again, absolutely smashing it out of the park. Her writing pulls you back into the ever-entertaining lives of the crew and everyone around them.
Boston Black 👀 I see you baby and I can fix you.
Boston and Ariana’s story just so happens to be one of my top two favourite tropes 🫣 (brothers best friend)
Angelia writes friendship so beautifully. You get to see the complexity, the depth, the trust and love this group has for one another. You’re experiencing everything firsthand with them as if you were actually there. You feel apart of their group and understand them on another level. When I tell you that my jaw dropped a million times, I laughed, I cried, I felt the grief/guilt that was wrapped around Boston and wanted to hold him in my arms.
Angelia’s writing is refreshing, fun, and honestly makes me a better writer. Not only is she fabulous, but she’s an amazing author with a killer series. Trust me on this one. I cannot recommend Staking Time and the Steel City series enough.
5/5 ⭐️
Oh and Angelia, if you’re reading this — give me Wyatt and Saltzy’s book or I might go feral. All the love 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Sometimes, people just need to know that you’ll never give up on them.” If that right there doesn’t sum up this book and make you want to read it idk what will.
I love a story of two broken people slowly healing eachother without even realizing it. Boston and Ari are so fun, flirty, witty, sexy, and laugh out loud funny, but there are also so many sweet simple moments between these two and watching them breakdown each others walls and actually SEE each other had me in all my feels.
As much as I know we all love our strong, steady, (and sexy) Boston Black, I fell in love with Ari the second we met her in Book One and it was such a joy getting to know all the layers to this girl. If I could reach through my kindle and give her the biggest hug ever I would. She has always been a force to be reckoned with but watching her grow into this emotionally strong and self assured version of herself through the love, care, and stability Boston provided her was truly beautiful. She found the best home on Misfits Farm and it was an honor to be along for the ride.
But BE WARNED: the last 10% of this book will have you crying and feeling physically ill over some of the words being exchanged 😭😭😭
Angelia you crushed it, a million stars, and sending big hugs to you!!!!!💚💚💚
I love a story of two broken people slowly healing eachother without even realizing it. Boston and Ari are so fun, flirty, witty, sexy, and laugh out loud funny, but there are also so many sweet simple moments between these two and watching them breakdown each others walls and actually SEE each other had me in all my feels.
As much as I know we all love our strong, steady, (and sexy) Boston Black, I fell in love with Ari the second we met her in Book One and it was such a joy getting to know all the layers to this girl. If I could reach through my kindle and give her the biggest hug ever I would. She has always been a force to be reckoned with but watching her grow into this emotionally strong and self assured version of herself through the love, care, and stability Boston provided her was truly beautiful. She found the best home on Misfits Farm and it was an honor to be along for the ride.
But BE WARNED: the last 10% of this book will have you crying and feeling physically ill over some of the words being exchanged 😭😭😭
Angelia you crushed it, a million stars, and sending big hugs to you!!!!!💚💚💚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Staking Time. Boston and Ariana.
Like goats, this book was 'pure unrelenting chaos'. End of a sentence but a beginning of a story.
The emotional pull in this book was unreal. I deeply felt what the characters felt. I wanted to reach through the pages and give them a hug at times. Honestly Angelia who hurt you to write this? Do YOU need a hug?
Boston and Ariana's story didn't hit the way Penny and Declan's hit in Wasted Time or the way Arden and Carter's hit in Faking Time and that's ok. They kind of had to find themselves to find each other... and create a mess in doing so. They are both headstrong and vulnerable and a bit broken but they make each other whole when together. Ariana was kind of predictable (which didn't make me love her any less). But understanding all of Boston Black's lore? I'm so glad Ariana found him and he gave her a chance.
Love love love that we get more snippets of The Crew, but I did feel some of their story did over shadow the plot at times. Although I love them so much I will never not want them to appear so intertwined in these books. The Crew has such a strong presence in everyones lives that I envy their friendship the same way everyone outside of their group does and a Steel Series book without them wouldn't be right.
So lift up your extra dirty martinis or tequila shot sans lime and give this book a proper toast for being exactly what I needed when I needed it. If you haven't read any of the Steel Series books - go read them now. GO!
On that note, I don't know where the next book is heading, but if this series doesn't end with a goodbye parade... then it better not be ending at all.
#noparole #fortheplot
Like goats, this book was 'pure unrelenting chaos'. End of a sentence but a beginning of a story.
The emotional pull in this book was unreal. I deeply felt what the characters felt. I wanted to reach through the pages and give them a hug at times. Honestly Angelia who hurt you to write this? Do YOU need a hug?
Boston and Ariana's story didn't hit the way Penny and Declan's hit in Wasted Time or the way Arden and Carter's hit in Faking Time and that's ok. They kind of had to find themselves to find each other... and create a mess in doing so. They are both headstrong and vulnerable and a bit broken but they make each other whole when together. Ariana was kind of predictable (which didn't make me love her any less). But understanding all of Boston Black's lore? I'm so glad Ariana found him and he gave her a chance.
Love love love that we get more snippets of The Crew, but I did feel some of their story did over shadow the plot at times. Although I love them so much I will never not want them to appear so intertwined in these books. The Crew has such a strong presence in everyones lives that I envy their friendship the same way everyone outside of their group does and a Steel Series book without them wouldn't be right.
So lift up your extra dirty martinis or tequila shot sans lime and give this book a proper toast for being exactly what I needed when I needed it. If you haven't read any of the Steel Series books - go read them now. GO!
On that note, I don't know where the next book is heading, but if this series doesn't end with a goodbye parade... then it better not be ending at all.
#noparole #fortheplot
June 9, 2026
This book completely stole my heart.
I came for the brother’s best friend/teammate romance and stayed for the incredible found family. While I loved Boston and Ari together, what truly made this story special was how incredible the bond between all the characters were and the way everyone cared so deeply for one another.
Boston was the perfect broody hero. Beneath all the grumpiness was a man with a huge heart, and between his farm, his adopted animals, and the way he loved his people, I couldn’t help but adore him. Ari was relatable, lovable, and the perfect person to constantly push his buttons.
This book had me laughing one minute and tearing up the next. The banter was fantastic, the emotional moments hit hard, and I found myself invested in every relationship, not just the romance.
The ending was absolutely perfect, and that final line? Let's just say the author knew exactly what she was doing.
I came for the brother’s best friend/teammate romance and stayed for the incredible found family. While I loved Boston and Ari together, what truly made this story special was how incredible the bond between all the characters were and the way everyone cared so deeply for one another.
Boston was the perfect broody hero. Beneath all the grumpiness was a man with a huge heart, and between his farm, his adopted animals, and the way he loved his people, I couldn’t help but adore him. Ari was relatable, lovable, and the perfect person to constantly push his buttons.
This book had me laughing one minute and tearing up the next. The banter was fantastic, the emotional moments hit hard, and I found myself invested in every relationship, not just the romance.
The ending was absolutely perfect, and that final line? Let's just say the author knew exactly what she was doing.
June 27, 2026
She’s gone and done it again people! Are we surprised? I’m not because the last 2 books were amazing I expected this one to be as well.
Ari and Bostons story had me hooked. The banter between the 2 of them makes you want to never put the book down.
As always read triggers before starting just incase. Or does include some spoilers for the book but the story is amazing.
The way Angelia writes about the trauma the characters go through is done with such care. I feel every emotion the characters are feeling. I cried with them and also wanted to yell at other characters just like they did.
To be seen is such a blessing and the way Boston sees Ari and Ari sees Boston… breathtaking.
Thank you to Angelia for allowing me to read an advanced readers copy. I’ll forever recommend this series to people. The found family is some of my favorite parts of this series and all the characters have a special place in my heart.
I cannot wait for what else is next in this series!
Ari and Bostons story had me hooked. The banter between the 2 of them makes you want to never put the book down.
As always read triggers before starting just incase. Or does include some spoilers for the book but the story is amazing.
The way Angelia writes about the trauma the characters go through is done with such care. I feel every emotion the characters are feeling. I cried with them and also wanted to yell at other characters just like they did.
To be seen is such a blessing and the way Boston sees Ari and Ari sees Boston… breathtaking.
Thank you to Angelia for allowing me to read an advanced readers copy. I’ll forever recommend this series to people. The found family is some of my favorite parts of this series and all the characters have a special place in my heart.
I cannot wait for what else is next in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stayed up to early hours of the morning to finish this! Book hangover! Loved it so much. No one like Boston Black! 🖤 And Ari has my heart. What a force who is trying her best to be the best!🩷 These two are an unlikely pairing but they see each other in ways the people around them don’t. I loved their flirty banter and the “will they/won’t they” of it all. Also-they are super HOT!
I love this series so much! I love the way author writes friendship. Long time friends in a group specifically! You don’t have friends for that long without there being struggles and growing pains. And I love that. Makes it so real. As a member of my own crew,(almost 40 years of friendship among us!) I appreciate the honesty in the story of them.
And I will NEVER get tired of seeing Penny and Declan, the OG pairing who started it all. What a gorgeous way to give us more of them! 🥹 I never get tired of this crew!
Congrats to Angelia on another great story! And thank you to her for the ARC!
books
I love this series so much! I love the way author writes friendship. Long time friends in a group specifically! You don’t have friends for that long without there being struggles and growing pains. And I love that. Makes it so real. As a member of my own crew,(almost 40 years of friendship among us!) I appreciate the honesty in the story of them.
And I will NEVER get tired of seeing Penny and Declan, the OG pairing who started it all. What a gorgeous way to give us more of them! 🥹 I never get tired of this crew!
Congrats to Angelia on another great story! And thank you to her for the ARC!
books
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was VERY lucky to receive a early copy of this masterpiece
Ari and Boston have my heart
With each of the series I find pieces of me I didn't expect when I started - with Ari, my chaotic girly, I feel seen.
She's for the girls who dream, for the girls who most definitely have ADHD and for the girls who aren't afraid to go after what they want (the last part I'm working on for me)
Her dynamic with Boston was magical, an invisible string that tied them together from their first look.
You can feel their pull, but also the resistance, because, hello, it's my fave trope, brothers best friend/team mate. Incredible. Chefs kiss.
The best part? How even though I'm reading Ari and Boston, I'm thrown back into a world with Lucky and Dec but the story is never forgotten
Insane, 5 stars, I already crave the next more than the blood in my veins.
Ari and Boston have my heart
With each of the series I find pieces of me I didn't expect when I started - with Ari, my chaotic girly, I feel seen.
She's for the girls who dream, for the girls who most definitely have ADHD and for the girls who aren't afraid to go after what they want (the last part I'm working on for me)
Her dynamic with Boston was magical, an invisible string that tied them together from their first look.
You can feel their pull, but also the resistance, because, hello, it's my fave trope, brothers best friend/team mate. Incredible. Chefs kiss.
The best part? How even though I'm reading Ari and Boston, I'm thrown back into a world with Lucky and Dec but the story is never forgotten
Insane, 5 stars, I already crave the next more than the blood in my veins.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
THE CREW IS BACK…and so are Boston and Ariana!
Ariana wants to find herself and start fresh. So she moves home with her brother and comes face to face with his best friend, Boston Black. And the rest…is history. This book made me have so many emotions. I laughed, I cried, I revisited characters from other books that I’ve missed since I finished the last book. But Boston and Ari may be my favorite couple so far. Their flirtation and their chemistry is there from page 1 of them being around each other. Theres definitely a rollercoaster in this book but who doesn’t love rollercoasters. 😏 brothers best friend is one of my favorite tropes and this book exceeded my expectations. I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to read this ARC and hope to have the opportunity again for the next one!
Ariana wants to find herself and start fresh. So she moves home with her brother and comes face to face with his best friend, Boston Black. And the rest…is history. This book made me have so many emotions. I laughed, I cried, I revisited characters from other books that I’ve missed since I finished the last book. But Boston and Ari may be my favorite couple so far. Their flirtation and their chemistry is there from page 1 of them being around each other. Theres definitely a rollercoaster in this book but who doesn’t love rollercoasters. 😏 brothers best friend is one of my favorite tropes and this book exceeded my expectations. I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to read this ARC and hope to have the opportunity again for the next one!
May 25, 2026
Every time I’m fortunate enough to read one of Angelia’s books (and early even!) I am always floored by the amount of emotion she stirs with each and every one of her characters. I got so emotional seeing this group of characters experience their next chapter in their lives, they truly are so special. Angelia. You’ve created something so freaking special.
Ariana and Boston. Ooooof this relationship was a rollercoaster to say the LEAST. I spent half the book so freaking infuriated at them and the other half swooning my ass off. Spoiler free: I think I didn’t stop crying the entire last 25% of this thing, so buckle up. Grab your tissues and get excited to go on this ride.
Ariana and Boston. Ooooof this relationship was a rollercoaster to say the LEAST. I spent half the book so freaking infuriated at them and the other half swooning my ass off. Spoiler free: I think I didn’t stop crying the entire last 25% of this thing, so buckle up. Grab your tissues and get excited to go on this ride.
June 16, 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
JUST PERFECT! 💚💚💚
This story had the best grumpy/sunshine rep! Brother’s extremely 🔥 teammate and best friend, who is off limits 👀 I mean it was a mix of all the best tropes!! I love both Ariana and Boston so much and to see their character developments and their love story in this book, tears were shed! 🥹🥰
I have been obsessed with this series since book 1, and to see all these characters and their growth in this one was so emotional! I related to Ari so much and her story inspired me to give love a chance!
Read this book right now!!!
And I’m gonna go reread it 😌💚
Thank you Angelia for letting me be part of your arc team from the beginning (and being a great friend 🫶🏻)
JUST PERFECT! 💚💚💚
This story had the best grumpy/sunshine rep! Brother’s extremely 🔥 teammate and best friend, who is off limits 👀 I mean it was a mix of all the best tropes!! I love both Ariana and Boston so much and to see their character developments and their love story in this book, tears were shed! 🥹🥰
I have been obsessed with this series since book 1, and to see all these characters and their growth in this one was so emotional! I related to Ari so much and her story inspired me to give love a chance!
Read this book right now!!!
And I’m gonna go reread it 😌💚
Thank you Angelia for letting me be part of your arc team from the beginning (and being a great friend 🫶🏻)
June 11, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an eARC of Staking Time and WOW. Just when I think I can’t get any more attached to these characters, Angelia just blows it out of the water with her writing. I truly felt like I was right alongside Ariana and Boston as their story unfolded and it’s not easy for me to do that!
Starting with Ariana – she’s the perfect emulation of being confident and driven, while at the same time battling those demons in your head that keep whispering you’re not good enough. Ariana was dealt some bad cards that forced her to onto another path in life and the internal struggle that came with it felt so raw, and honestly relatable.
One of my favorite quotes from Staking time is “You’re still young and you’re still alive. You get another chance every day. If you’re unhappy with your past, don’t let it bleed into your future.” THAT RESONATED WITH ME SO MUCH .
And who said that quote, you ask? Mr. Boston fucking Black. Now, I don’t typically go for the broodier type of man, but if this man asked me to bark, I’d do him one better and howl at the moon. There’s nothing sexier than a man who’s rough around the edges, but has a heart of gold (and baby goats). I don’t think you understand how much I love baby goats like I NEED THIS MAN.
Anyways, Ariana and Boston’s chemistry is undeniable (and I think they both agree since they couldn’t not be around each other). They’re the perfect yin and yang. They truly understand each other far beyond just physical intimacy – that’s simply just the cherry on top to an incredible dynamic.
This is getting so long but I MUST comment on The Crew and the rest of the hockey boys. Penny and Declan continue to warm my soul. Their wedding legit made me cry and I’m SO man they’re fictional because I would have loved to be invited. Penny is someone I’d love to have in my corner. Her fierceness and loyalty is so admirable – plus she’d kick anyone’s ass if they did me dirty. I have so much more to say about each and every one of these characters but I’ll leave it at this. They’re SO special and I can’t wait to dive back into this universe when book 4 graces our presence 💕
Starting with Ariana – she’s the perfect emulation of being confident and driven, while at the same time battling those demons in your head that keep whispering you’re not good enough. Ariana was dealt some bad cards that forced her to onto another path in life and the internal struggle that came with it felt so raw, and honestly relatable.
One of my favorite quotes from Staking time is “You’re still young and you’re still alive. You get another chance every day. If you’re unhappy with your past, don’t let it bleed into your future.” THAT RESONATED WITH ME SO MUCH .
And who said that quote, you ask? Mr. Boston fucking Black. Now, I don’t typically go for the broodier type of man, but if this man asked me to bark, I’d do him one better and howl at the moon. There’s nothing sexier than a man who’s rough around the edges, but has a heart of gold (and baby goats). I don’t think you understand how much I love baby goats like I NEED THIS MAN.
Anyways, Ariana and Boston’s chemistry is undeniable (and I think they both agree since they couldn’t not be around each other). They’re the perfect yin and yang. They truly understand each other far beyond just physical intimacy – that’s simply just the cherry on top to an incredible dynamic.
This is getting so long but I MUST comment on The Crew and the rest of the hockey boys. Penny and Declan continue to warm my soul. Their wedding legit made me cry and I’m SO man they’re fictional because I would have loved to be invited. Penny is someone I’d love to have in my corner. Her fierceness and loyalty is so admirable – plus she’d kick anyone’s ass if they did me dirty. I have so much more to say about each and every one of these characters but I’ll leave it at this. They’re SO special and I can’t wait to dive back into this universe when book 4 graces our presence 💕
June 1, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
If theres someone I can count on to write a romance that will make me swoon and scream and kick and YEARN for… it’s Angelia.
I am obsessed with Ari and Boston and their story had me whipping pompoms out and rooting for fictional characters.
I also really just love the whole ensemble cast of characters that we get to know and love throughout the series.
It really is the perfect read for the hockey romance girls who love a found family.
DREAMY AND STEAMY AND ALL THE GOOD THINGS IN BETWEENY
A million trillion stars
If theres someone I can count on to write a romance that will make me swoon and scream and kick and YEARN for… it’s Angelia.
I am obsessed with Ari and Boston and their story had me whipping pompoms out and rooting for fictional characters.
I also really just love the whole ensemble cast of characters that we get to know and love throughout the series.
It really is the perfect read for the hockey romance girls who love a found family.
DREAMY AND STEAMY AND ALL THE GOOD THINGS IN BETWEENY
A million trillion stars
June 13, 2026
This was such a heart felt, intense read ! Once I started I couldn’t put it down. The forbidden love kept me on my toes for sure. The banter was amazing as I found myself either gasping or laughing out loud. The spice was perfectly steamy and HOT, definitely made me giggle. This was my first hockey romance read and it did NOT disappoint. The focus on the bonds of friendship and family complexities was so tender and had me on the verge of tears quite a few times. Highly recommend this 5 star read !
Review of advance copy received from Author
Still one of the most underrated sports romance series out there! We’ve got adult characters, great tropes done in fresh ways, and found family galore!
The banter in this one was 10/10 (we knew it would be with spitfire Ariana against broody Boston)!
It was a bit slow to get started but once it did, I was fully locked in!
I just continue to love this series and am always so impressed with Angelia’s writing!
The banter in this one was 10/10 (we knew it would be with spitfire Ariana against broody Boston)!
It was a bit slow to get started but once it did, I was fully locked in!
I just continue to love this series and am always so impressed with Angelia’s writing!
June 11, 2026
I love this book. It feels so nostalgic. The found family is everything, I live for the crew cameos and seeing the two previous books character’s stories continue into happily ever after. This MMC is down so bad and he calls her sweetheart!!! Watching these two characters open up to each other and grow was just chiefs kiss. This book had me kicking my feet and crying, it gives you all the feels. I highly recommend reading Staking Time and the whole Steel city series.
June 20, 2026
Here’s the deal, I have to get my thoughts together. I need you to know Angelia is such a talent.
I love her friend group. I love that we get to see every single person. I love the way she has focused on mental health and friendship.
This is a straight banger. I will accept no criticism. These are my type of books, and this book was made for people who were told to be smaller s ended up being g bigger than you could imagine.
Fuck those people:
10/10
I love her friend group. I love that we get to see every single person. I love the way she has focused on mental health and friendship.
This is a straight banger. I will accept no criticism. These are my type of books, and this book was made for people who were told to be smaller s ended up being g bigger than you could imagine.
Fuck those people:
10/10
Review of advance copy
I don’t know how to gather the words to describe how good this book is. Book one of this series (Wasted Time) has remained my favorite book that I have ever read, and I think that this book just made it a tie.
The emotions I felt through this book were so intense. Joy, love, giddiness, heartbreak, anger, fear and disappointment, and passion. They were all there barely giving me a chance to collect myself before another wave crashed into me.
One thing that I think is done so well, is that we’re still so connected to the initial crew even though we’re in someone else’s story. Penny and Declan have such a strong presence in everyone’s lives, they are magical!
Boston and Ariana…what a pair. Headstrong, vulnerable, broken but absolutely perfect for each other. They made each other whole. They fit together like a puzzle. Their happy ending was just as much of a struggle as Penny and Declan’s!
Carter and Arden.. oh boy! Arden is the antidote for Carter. He absolutely needs her to be his clam. There was a period of time in this book when I wasn’t sure if Carter would be able to redeem himself, but Boston and Ari both gracefully accepted his flaws and loved him when he needed it the most.
I have no Idea where we’re headed next, but I know that I will be thinking about this book for a long time!
The emotions I felt through this book were so intense. Joy, love, giddiness, heartbreak, anger, fear and disappointment, and passion. They were all there barely giving me a chance to collect myself before another wave crashed into me.
One thing that I think is done so well, is that we’re still so connected to the initial crew even though we’re in someone else’s story. Penny and Declan have such a strong presence in everyone’s lives, they are magical!
Boston and Ariana…what a pair. Headstrong, vulnerable, broken but absolutely perfect for each other. They made each other whole. They fit together like a puzzle. Their happy ending was just as much of a struggle as Penny and Declan’s!
Carter and Arden.. oh boy! Arden is the antidote for Carter. He absolutely needs her to be his clam. There was a period of time in this book when I wasn’t sure if Carter would be able to redeem himself, but Boston and Ari both gracefully accepted his flaws and loved him when he needed it the most.
I have no Idea where we’re headed next, but I know that I will be thinking about this book for a long time!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been waiting for Ari and Boston to get together since book 1! This book did not disappoint!! I absolutely loved their story! I am more and more invested in all of these characters with each book. I cannot get enough!
I said it last time, and I’ll continue to say it: Wyatt is and always will be my favorite
I said it last time, and I’ll continue to say it: Wyatt is and always will be my favorite
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m once again in awe and at a loss for words. I love the this series more and more every time a new book comes out and I’ve had the chance to get an ARC of everyone’s stories so far.
Boston and Ariana, I don’t even know where to begin. They balance each other out so perfectly.
I love the snippets of The Crew that we get each time. It wouldn’t be a Steel City book without one.
Now I have 3 men that I have to choose from
Can’t wait for more in book 4 <3
Boston and Ariana, I don’t even know where to begin. They balance each other out so perfectly.
I love the snippets of The Crew that we get each time. It wouldn’t be a Steel City book without one.
Now I have 3 men that I have to choose from
Can’t wait for more in book 4 <3
June 14, 2026
I had ups and downs with this book. I’m not a fan of angry jealous brother trope and I got really angry and upset when they found out like Arden wtf, Carter no words.
But I’m really happy that we got P&D story.
I really love the series and I don’t know if there are books which made me cry so hard.
But I’m really happy that we got P&D story.
I really love the series and I don’t know if there are books which made me cry so hard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2026
Loved It
I struggled at the beginning through, no fault but my own, thinking I could dive straight in without having read the first 2 books in the series. And while technically you can, there are a LOT of characters to remember.
That all said, once I got stuck into the story I really enjoyed it. I laughed out loud and I cried quietly. And felt many other emotions in between.
I struggled at the beginning through, no fault but my own, thinking I could dive straight in without having read the first 2 books in the series. And while technically you can, there are a LOT of characters to remember.
That all said, once I got stuck into the story I really enjoyed it. I laughed out loud and I cried quietly. And felt many other emotions in between.
July 6, 2026
Ok so my first actual written review? Of course it has to be given to Boston Black!!! I’ve been waiting for this book! I loved him from book one and he did not disappoint! What an angel of a man!!! Love love love from start to finish!!! Got me out of my reading slump since finishing Out of her league! Thank you 💜
June 15, 2026
staking time
Another fantastic read by Angelia Swan! I love her steel city series. I was lucky enough to be an advanced reader. If you love a good brothers best friend/ teammate, hockey romance with found family then this is a read for you!
Another fantastic read by Angelia Swan! I love her steel city series. I was lucky enough to be an advanced reader. If you love a good brothers best friend/ teammate, hockey romance with found family then this is a read for you!
June 23, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
This is EVERYTHING I want from a hockey romance. Reluctant, grumpy and hurting MMC meets a know-what-she-wants FMC. Team mates sister and loads of found family. Loved seeing so much of the wasted time crew there too. Loved it. ❤️
This is EVERYTHING I want from a hockey romance. Reluctant, grumpy and hurting MMC meets a know-what-she-wants FMC. Team mates sister and loads of found family. Loved seeing so much of the wasted time crew there too. Loved it. ❤️
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