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The Seattle Strike #3
The Score
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26A fake marriage to my best friend is a temporary measure.
My dad dreams of walking me down the aisle. With his health now at risk, who better than Leon "Bear" Karlsen to step up and be my pretend husband? All we have to do is act like we're suddenly in love.
Me, a cynic who swore off dating years ago, and my childhood friend, a tattooed pro football player with the highest romantic standards known to humankind.
Now we kiss, share a bedroom, and deal with accidental encounters in the shower. Until we make a deal. Friendship above all, but we'll have fun in bed. For a while.
Bear may call me his wife in front of his teammates, but he's seeking the kind of romance my jaded heart can't provide.
I'm his best friend. I can't keep him tied to me. I would rather break my own heart than risk losing what we have.
My dad dreams of walking me down the aisle. With his health now at risk, who better than Leon "Bear" Karlsen to step up and be my pretend husband? All we have to do is act like we're suddenly in love.
Me, a cynic who swore off dating years ago, and my childhood friend, a tattooed pro football player with the highest romantic standards known to humankind.
Now we kiss, share a bedroom, and deal with accidental encounters in the shower. Until we make a deal. Friendship above all, but we'll have fun in bed. For a while.
Bear may call me his wife in front of his teammates, but he's seeking the kind of romance my jaded heart can't provide.
I'm his best friend. I can't keep him tied to me. I would rather break my own heart than risk losing what we have.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 10, 2026
37 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Leonor Soliz
15 books310 followersLeonor wrote her first Meet Cute at eight years old and never really stopped. Her stories are cozy and fun: low conflict, slow burn books that will make you swoon... and will reward you with great spice. With a healthy dose of humor, these stories guarantee a happily ever after to her plus size and multicultural characters.
Leonor is a Latina living in Canada, working as a therapist during the day and fitting as much writing to her life as she can. She’s also a multicrafter, trying her hand at watercolor, jewelry, sewing, and anything else that strikes her fancy. She makes her own covers!
Learn more about Leonor at leonorsoliz.com/links.
Leonor is a Latina living in Canada, working as a therapist during the day and fitting as much writing to her life as she can. She’s also a multicrafter, trying her hand at watercolor, jewelry, sewing, and anything else that strikes her fancy. She makes her own covers!
Learn more about Leonor at leonorsoliz.com/links.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 31, 2026
I received an ARC copy of The Score, and truth be told it was my first one! I am an avid reader of many genres and I have to say I really loved this book. The main characters (Pen & Bear) have a friendship for the ages that I think a lot of people romanticize, and seeing it come together on the page was such a fun combination of cozy, spicy and steamy I made it through the whole book in one evening/morning. In today’s world, a cozy/spicy sports-adjacent romance with a lovely ending? Sign me up every time 💕
February 4, 2026
this was so cutie!! i love a marriage of convenience trope when it's done right, and this one was done well for sure. the whole premise is that her dad wants to walk her down the aisle, but is having a surgery that could end badly, so she and her good friend decide to have a wedding. this could've been executed better i think, and i didn't love the third act conflict nor did i connect to either of the characters much, but it was bingeable and mindless and cute!
pre read:
i switched to the audiobook of alchemised because i’m lowkey struggling and i’m in a bingeing mood so let’s knock out some arcs 🙂↕️
thank you to netgalley + the publisher for an arc! all opinions are my own.
pre read:
i switched to the audiobook of alchemised because i’m lowkey struggling and i’m in a bingeing mood so let’s knock out some arcs 🙂↕️
thank you to netgalley + the publisher for an arc! all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Pen and Leon (aka Bear) have been friends since they met at 10 years old. They quickly become best friends, and keep their relationship in the friend zone for almost twenty years. At age 29, Pen is a burnt out social worker whose calling is helping people, while Leon is a professional football player whose calling is protecting and caring for his best friend. When Pen's father has a health scare, Leon and Pen decide to honor the marriage pact they made as teens so that Pen's father will have the chance to walk her down the aisle. The marriage is real, but they plan on keeping it platonic.
I absolutely adored this sweet friends to lovers romance. Their love story is an agonizingly slow burn (in the *best* way), without a lot of drama or conflict, but with plenty of spice. We get to enjoy these two friends discovering and exploring their hidden feelings for each other while flashbacks shed light on their past together.
This was my first book by this author, and I will absolutely be reading more!
Pen and Leon (aka Bear) have been friends since they met at 10 years old. They quickly become best friends, and keep their relationship in the friend zone for almost twenty years. At age 29, Pen is a burnt out social worker whose calling is helping people, while Leon is a professional football player whose calling is protecting and caring for his best friend. When Pen's father has a health scare, Leon and Pen decide to honor the marriage pact they made as teens so that Pen's father will have the chance to walk her down the aisle. The marriage is real, but they plan on keeping it platonic.
I absolutely adored this sweet friends to lovers romance. Their love story is an agonizingly slow burn (in the *best* way), without a lot of drama or conflict, but with plenty of spice. We get to enjoy these two friends discovering and exploring their hidden feelings for each other while flashbacks shed light on their past together.
This was my first book by this author, and I will absolutely be reading more!
Read
January 30, 2026Pen y Leon se conocen desde niños y nunca han dejado de ser mejores amigos. Él es un jugador de fútbol americano famoso, enorme y protector, y ella trabaja ayudando a personas en situaciones legales complicadas hasta el punto del agotamiento total. Cuando la salud del papá de Pen se vuelve incierta y el miedo al futuro se instala, Leon aparece como siempre lo ha hecho, ofreciendo apoyo sin condiciones y soluciones prácticas aunque sean una locura.
Lo que comienza como un plan para ayudar a su familia y darle estabilidad a Pen termina poniendo a prueba todo lo que creen saber de su relación. Fingir algo que no es real se vuelve cada vez más complicado cuando la cercanía, los recuerdos y el cariño de años empiezan a sentirse distintos.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Lo que comienza como un plan para ayudar a su familia y darle estabilidad a Pen termina poniendo a prueba todo lo que creen saber de su relación. Fingir algo que no es real se vuelve cada vez más complicado cuando la cercanía, los recuerdos y el cariño de años empiezan a sentirse distintos.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
✨ Romance Comfort-Read Alert ✨
This review comes from a reader who loves:
🛑 No cheating / no OW-OM drama
💞 Low angst (together > apart)
🚫💔 No third-act breakup — I’m tired and I want them happy
👑 Strong FMC
💪 Take-charge MMC
🔥 Reformed playboy > current manwhore, but never manwhore is preferred
💬 Miscommunication allowed if resolved like adults
🏡 HEA ALWAYS
I read for joy, vibes, and emotional safety. If you’re here for chaos and pain… we might not be reading the same book 😌📚 I also tend not to rework the summary into reviews because chances are you’ve already read it to get to the book review part of the show.
Sorry, my heart isn't available right now because Bear is holding it. He is such a sweet romantic cinnamon roll and he's always loved Pen.
Pen and Bear are childhood friends, best friends, who have kept it in the friendzone for all that time. Pen's dad has a health scare and Bear is there for her. So much so, that they get married so Pen's daddy can walk her down the aisle (swoon).
Pen, bless her, is burnt to a burnt-to-a-crisp social worker. She is so giving and sweet. Bear is a precious protector, and he's big with tattoos, so my ideal man (wait...so is my husband....guess i'm sensing a trend :) )
This is a very sweet friends-to-lovers story. It is a bit slow, but arguably in a good way. When I love characters and the story, I always get impatient and want it to move along faster, but that is an impatient ADHDer problem.
Another thing I loved about this was LOW DRAMA. Life is too stressful as it is, so I like to escape. I never like a third-act conflict, it always seems like such a cop out, and I get annoyed with them. I personally feel like why spend all this time building up their relationship/connection to try to rip it out.
I did feel like it was a bit....I don't know, choppy, maybe? Also, Pen is like mid to late 20s, so giving up on love seems a bit premature.
All in all a good read! Def recommend
🔐💞👑💪🚫💬🏡
(Safe • Low Angst • Strong FMC • Take-Charge MMC • No Cheating • HEA)
✨ Romance Comfort-Read Alert ✨
This review comes from a reader who loves:
🛑 No cheating / no OW-OM drama
💞 Low angst (together > apart)
🚫💔 No third-act breakup — I’m tired and I want them happy
👑 Strong FMC
💪 Take-charge MMC
🔥 Reformed playboy > current manwhore, but never manwhore is preferred
💬 Miscommunication allowed if resolved like adults
🏡 HEA ALWAYS
I read for joy, vibes, and emotional safety. If you’re here for chaos and pain… we might not be reading the same book 😌📚 I also tend not to rework the summary into reviews because chances are you’ve already read it to get to the book review part of the show.
Sorry, my heart isn't available right now because Bear is holding it. He is such a sweet romantic cinnamon roll and he's always loved Pen.
Pen and Bear are childhood friends, best friends, who have kept it in the friendzone for all that time. Pen's dad has a health scare and Bear is there for her. So much so, that they get married so Pen's daddy can walk her down the aisle (swoon).
Pen, bless her, is burnt to a burnt-to-a-crisp social worker. She is so giving and sweet. Bear is a precious protector, and he's big with tattoos, so my ideal man (wait...so is my husband....guess i'm sensing a trend :) )
This is a very sweet friends-to-lovers story. It is a bit slow, but arguably in a good way. When I love characters and the story, I always get impatient and want it to move along faster, but that is an impatient ADHDer problem.
Another thing I loved about this was LOW DRAMA. Life is too stressful as it is, so I like to escape. I never like a third-act conflict, it always seems like such a cop out, and I get annoyed with them. I personally feel like why spend all this time building up their relationship/connection to try to rip it out.
I did feel like it was a bit....I don't know, choppy, maybe? Also, Pen is like mid to late 20s, so giving up on love seems a bit premature.
All in all a good read! Def recommend
🔐💞👑💪🚫💬🏡
(Safe • Low Angst • Strong FMC • Take-Charge MMC • No Cheating • HEA)
Review of advance copy received from Author
📚 ARC Review: The Score by Leonor Soliz 📚
The newest release in the Seattle Strike Series is here, and it’s finally Penelope & Bear’s turn!
Pen and Bear have been inseparable since age ten as next‑door neighbors, instant best friends.
As they grow up Bear is there for Penelope as a protector and caretaker. Before they go off to separate college, they made a pact to marry at 30 if they were both still single. So when life throws Pen a curveball, Bear steps in with a solution to marry as friends, help each other out, and eventually divorce so he can go find his forever love. Except… Bear’s forever love has always been Pen.
Penelope, however, is convinced romance isn’t for her. After a couple of failed attempts at love, she’s sworn it off completely. Meanwhile Bear? He’s a full‑blown romantic who believes in happily ever afters with his whole heart.
What follows is a slow‑burn, friends‑to‑lovers, fake‑marriage journey filled with loyalty, longing, and two people who have been orbiting each other their entire lives. Everyone around them sees it. Bear knows it. Pen just needs time to catch up.
My Thoughts:
This one had a slower start for me—the cadence felt a bit choppy for the first 30%, and a couple things pulled me out (Pen giving up on love at 25 felt very young, especially with only one or two past relationships). But once the story found its rhythm, I was fully invested. Bear is patient and unwavering, Pen’s growth is satisfying, and their lifelong bond shines through.
Leonor Soliz’s writing always brings warmth, heart, and that signature emotional payoff. A solid addition to the series and one you’ll want to grab when it releases on February 10th!
The newest release in the Seattle Strike Series is here, and it’s finally Penelope & Bear’s turn!
Pen and Bear have been inseparable since age ten as next‑door neighbors, instant best friends.
As they grow up Bear is there for Penelope as a protector and caretaker. Before they go off to separate college, they made a pact to marry at 30 if they were both still single. So when life throws Pen a curveball, Bear steps in with a solution to marry as friends, help each other out, and eventually divorce so he can go find his forever love. Except… Bear’s forever love has always been Pen.
Penelope, however, is convinced romance isn’t for her. After a couple of failed attempts at love, she’s sworn it off completely. Meanwhile Bear? He’s a full‑blown romantic who believes in happily ever afters with his whole heart.
What follows is a slow‑burn, friends‑to‑lovers, fake‑marriage journey filled with loyalty, longing, and two people who have been orbiting each other their entire lives. Everyone around them sees it. Bear knows it. Pen just needs time to catch up.
My Thoughts:
This one had a slower start for me—the cadence felt a bit choppy for the first 30%, and a couple things pulled me out (Pen giving up on love at 25 felt very young, especially with only one or two past relationships). But once the story found its rhythm, I was fully invested. Bear is patient and unwavering, Pen’s growth is satisfying, and their lifelong bond shines through.
Leonor Soliz’s writing always brings warmth, heart, and that signature emotional payoff. A solid addition to the series and one you’ll want to grab when it releases on February 10th!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is so freaking cute. Two adults afraid of their feelings but communicating effectively while maintaining a 20 year friendship. There is literally nothing else I could've wanted from this story. This is standalone and I had no trouble following along, despite this being part of an established series.
Penelope and Leon (Bear) have been best friends since they were 10 years old. When Pen's dad needs a risky surgery and expresses his wishes of being able to walk her down the aisle, Pen and Bear decide to get married to make his wish a reality. Plus that football health insirance doesnt hurt. When their kiss at the alter changes the way they see each other, both are grappling with very big feelings. Both MCs can only deny their feelings for so long before physical desires win out. The third act conflict could be triggering for some, but it is kept pretty low stakes with minor repercussions.
While the marriage of convenience is a bit fantastical, I loved seeing each one of the MCs realize that their feelings from the last 20 years have a name, despite how much they deny it. The slow burn was excruciating in the best way and when the physical aspect joined they party, it was explosive. This is one of the few books I've read where the MCs have different love languages and don't realize it. The quality time and gift giving are portrayed as personality traits, but it ends up being them loving each other all along without realizing it. I absolutely loved this book and will be reading more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Leonor Soliz for the free eARC.
Penelope and Leon (Bear) have been best friends since they were 10 years old. When Pen's dad needs a risky surgery and expresses his wishes of being able to walk her down the aisle, Pen and Bear decide to get married to make his wish a reality. Plus that football health insirance doesnt hurt. When their kiss at the alter changes the way they see each other, both are grappling with very big feelings. Both MCs can only deny their feelings for so long before physical desires win out. The third act conflict could be triggering for some, but it is kept pretty low stakes with minor repercussions.
While the marriage of convenience is a bit fantastical, I loved seeing each one of the MCs realize that their feelings from the last 20 years have a name, despite how much they deny it. The slow burn was excruciating in the best way and when the physical aspect joined they party, it was explosive. This is one of the few books I've read where the MCs have different love languages and don't realize it. The quality time and gift giving are portrayed as personality traits, but it ends up being them loving each other all along without realizing it. I absolutely loved this book and will be reading more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Leonor Soliz for the free eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Set in Seattle, Pen and Bear are best friends and best friends only. Pen swore off romance five years prior. Leon "Bear" Karlsen hasn't dating the past few years, but he's holding out for his great love. Their friends just don't understand why these two claim only platonic feelings. But when Pen's dad needs a risky surgery, his one wish is to walk Pen down the aisle beforehand. After Bear proposes to Pen and they plan their wedding, both reiterate they are friends first. But as Bear calls her wife and they share a bed, they set up a new plan: keep prioritizing the friendship while also having fun in the bedroom. But Pen knows she can't give Bear the romance he has always wanted, so this can't last. Or can it?
I've been loving a modern marriage of convenience lately, and this was a fantastic addition! I love how these best friends finally figure out love. I'd say this has got a bit of idiots to lovers as well, lol.
My first time reading this author, I loved the found family aspect around Bear's football career. I can't wait to read more in this series!
This romance features:
🏒 Football (center)
🏒 Best friends to lovers
🏒 Marriage of convenience
🏒 Bucket list (PG and NSFW versions)
🏒 Cabin in the woods 😏
🏒 He loves fanfics
🏒 Found family
Open Door / Spicy!!
4.75 / 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!
I've been loving a modern marriage of convenience lately, and this was a fantastic addition! I love how these best friends finally figure out love. I'd say this has got a bit of idiots to lovers as well, lol.
My first time reading this author, I loved the found family aspect around Bear's football career. I can't wait to read more in this series!
This romance features:
🏒 Football (center)
🏒 Best friends to lovers
🏒 Marriage of convenience
🏒 Bucket list (PG and NSFW versions)
🏒 Cabin in the woods 😏
🏒 He loves fanfics
🏒 Found family
Open Door / Spicy!!
4.75 / 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Look.” I lift my hands in a placating gesture. “ know I came up with the idea back when we were
seventeen, but we’ve grown up.”
💍💍💍💍💍
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗙𝗘𝗕 10, 2026
The Score: A Friends to Lovers, Fake Marriage Sports Romance by Leonor Soliz
💍
:::::: spoiler free ::::::::
𝗣𝗛𝗘-𝗙𝗨𝗖𝗞𝗜𝗡-𝗡𝗢𝗠-𝗘-𝗡𝗔𝗟
This is possibly the best ‘we made this marriage pact when we were kids’ novel I’ve ever read.
And, it gets filled into my top fake relationship books.
💍
Honestly, these characters hit me hard. There were a few places I teared up & one where I full on sobbed.
The depth and layering was amazing.
I felt so much reading this: joy, chuckles, frustration, hope, and of course- love and desire.
💍
𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗥--- 𝗜 𝗖𝗔𝗡'𝗧 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡. 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗕𝗜𝗚 𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗨𝗧𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗠𝗔𝗡! (𝗔𝗻𝗱, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗻)
𝗣𝗘𝗡----- 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻. 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱, 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱, 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 & 𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁.
The flashbacks, hell! Be prepared! They were absolutely critical to the plot and insights.
💍
This was such a five star book. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
💍
CURVY LATINE FMC
FAKE WEDDING
FOOTBALL LINEBACKER
CHILDHOOD BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS
YEARNING
TOP TIER SPICE
EVERYONE KNOWS BUT THEM
💍
•••••.
Gooseflesh appears under Bear’s hand. I clench on nothing. My lungs work like | sprinted a mile. I’m biting my lips like I need to stop
a moan.
Shit. I’m in a horny panic.
••••
💍
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴.* :☆ﾟ. ───
seventeen, but we’ve grown up.”
💍💍💍💍💍
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗙𝗘𝗕 10, 2026
The Score: A Friends to Lovers, Fake Marriage Sports Romance by Leonor Soliz
💍
:::::: spoiler free ::::::::
𝗣𝗛𝗘-𝗙𝗨𝗖𝗞𝗜𝗡-𝗡𝗢𝗠-𝗘-𝗡𝗔𝗟
This is possibly the best ‘we made this marriage pact when we were kids’ novel I’ve ever read.
And, it gets filled into my top fake relationship books.
💍
Honestly, these characters hit me hard. There were a few places I teared up & one where I full on sobbed.
The depth and layering was amazing.
I felt so much reading this: joy, chuckles, frustration, hope, and of course- love and desire.
💍
𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗥--- 𝗜 𝗖𝗔𝗡'𝗧 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡. 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗕𝗜𝗚 𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗨𝗧𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗠𝗔𝗡! (𝗔𝗻𝗱, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗻)
𝗣𝗘𝗡----- 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻. 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱, 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱, 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 & 𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁.
The flashbacks, hell! Be prepared! They were absolutely critical to the plot and insights.
💍
This was such a five star book. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
💍
CURVY LATINE FMC
FAKE WEDDING
FOOTBALL LINEBACKER
CHILDHOOD BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS
YEARNING
TOP TIER SPICE
EVERYONE KNOWS BUT THEM
💍
•••••.
Gooseflesh appears under Bear’s hand. I clench on nothing. My lungs work like | sprinted a mile. I’m biting my lips like I need to stop
a moan.
Shit. I’m in a horny panic.
••••
💍
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴.* :☆ﾟ. ───
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was pure torture in the best way. I was completely consumed while reading and even found myself messaging the author with reactions, something I’ve never done before.
Pen and Bear are the perfect example of “everyone sees it but them.” Pen is a hardworking, burned-out social worker who decided romance wasn’t for her. Bear is her next-door neighbor, childhood best friend, football player, hopeless romantic, and literal Viking descendant. Their friendship is long-standing, intense, and full of unspoken feelings, creating a slow burn that had me completely hooked.
When Pen reaches her breaking point, Bear stages an intervention and takes her glamping, giving them the space to confront their feelings. The flashbacks were heartbreaking, and Bear’s willingness to sacrifice and show up for her again and again was devastating in the best way. The proposal came sooner than expected, and both families’ excitement added warmth and depth. Leonor’s depiction of a Latin household, the food, the love, felt authentic and vibrant.
The tension, jealousy, first kiss, and eventual realization of their feelings made every scene gripping. This story is heartfelt, romantic, and impossible to put down. I’m already counting down the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this!
Pen and Bear are the perfect example of “everyone sees it but them.” Pen is a hardworking, burned-out social worker who decided romance wasn’t for her. Bear is her next-door neighbor, childhood best friend, football player, hopeless romantic, and literal Viking descendant. Their friendship is long-standing, intense, and full of unspoken feelings, creating a slow burn that had me completely hooked.
When Pen reaches her breaking point, Bear stages an intervention and takes her glamping, giving them the space to confront their feelings. The flashbacks were heartbreaking, and Bear’s willingness to sacrifice and show up for her again and again was devastating in the best way. The proposal came sooner than expected, and both families’ excitement added warmth and depth. Leonor’s depiction of a Latin household, the food, the love, felt authentic and vibrant.
The tension, jealousy, first kiss, and eventual realization of their feelings made every scene gripping. This story is heartfelt, romantic, and impossible to put down. I’m already counting down the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this!
February 3, 2026
I thought this was sweet but a little serious too. Bear is more of my kindred soul here. My opinion is I like Pen. But I was at odds with some of her thoughts. I think this brought up that don’t know if opposite sex best friendships are as wonderful we often see them depicted.
I empathize with Pen’s feelings about dating. She spent a lot time anticipating a day where should have to give up her best friend to “other wife.” I felt that she had some feelings about herself that need more healing.
I love seeing an author talk about how being pursued by friends isn’t always flattering. Bear is cautious about expressing long held feelings because he doesn’t want Pen to feel betrayed by him. He doesn’t want her to think that their friendship was a means to an end. It’s not glamorous but I like the seeing how personally Pen processes dating. And lastly, I love how good communication can actually do a lot of good.
On Bear: I love that he’s the romantic. It’s always women who love LOVE but why the hell not. Also like we never keep space for men to be open about themselves this way. I also love this for the message : just because he has hopes and idealizations doesn’t mean he only sees life and people one way. I love his arc so much.
(I also want to thank Leonor Soliz for an arc in exchange for honest review. )
I empathize with Pen’s feelings about dating. She spent a lot time anticipating a day where should have to give up her best friend to “other wife.” I felt that she had some feelings about herself that need more healing.
I love seeing an author talk about how being pursued by friends isn’t always flattering. Bear is cautious about expressing long held feelings because he doesn’t want Pen to feel betrayed by him. He doesn’t want her to think that their friendship was a means to an end. It’s not glamorous but I like the seeing how personally Pen processes dating. And lastly, I love how good communication can actually do a lot of good.
On Bear: I love that he’s the romantic. It’s always women who love LOVE but why the hell not. Also like we never keep space for men to be open about themselves this way. I also love this for the message : just because he has hopes and idealizations doesn’t mean he only sees life and people one way. I love his arc so much.
(I also want to thank Leonor Soliz for an arc in exchange for honest review. )
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bear and Pen, bringing us back into the Seattle Strike Series. It can be read as a standalone or you can read the other three books, worth the reads. The found family friend group and their teasing is one of my favourite parts in each book.
I related to Pen and her career burnout, Leonor did a great job representing people who work in health care. I loved the support her bestie Bear gave, I loved Bear aka Leon. The way these two tiptoe around their feelings just to protect a 20-year friendship? I ate it up. Perfect.
Desperate. One word to describe Pen and Bear. This book was so cute, yet so freaking spicy. Leon at that garden shed, I may have yelled (like i was that mid in the neverending story) run, go to him....all in Pen.
"If we're both single when we're thirty, we should get married. For companionship. We clearly are not meant for romance, after that kiss."
Sports Romance
Best friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Found family
Bucket list (PG and NSFW versions)
Cabin in the woods
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings. I received a copy of this book from Leonor Soliz, and this is my honest review.
I related to Pen and her career burnout, Leonor did a great job representing people who work in health care. I loved the support her bestie Bear gave, I loved Bear aka Leon. The way these two tiptoe around their feelings just to protect a 20-year friendship? I ate it up. Perfect.
Desperate. One word to describe Pen and Bear. This book was so cute, yet so freaking spicy. Leon at that garden shed, I may have yelled (like i was that mid in the neverending story) run, go to him....all in Pen.
"If we're both single when we're thirty, we should get married. For companionship. We clearly are not meant for romance, after that kiss."
Sports Romance
Best friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Found family
Bucket list (PG and NSFW versions)
Cabin in the woods
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings. I received a copy of this book from Leonor Soliz, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was such a fun, feel good read with way more emotion than I expected. Leon, aka Bear, completely stole my heart. He is all quiet strength and soft devotion, and I loved seeing that side of him come out with Pen. Their chemistry was immediate, but it was the little moments, the teasing, the comfort, and the emotional honesty, that really made their relationship shine.
Pen felt strong, relatable, and easy to root for. I loved how she challenged Leon while also being a safe place for him, and watching them slowly choose each other was incredibly satisfying. Their banter was playful, their connection felt genuine, and the emotional beats landed perfectly without feeling heavy.
The sports aspect added just enough tension to keep things exciting while still keeping the focus on the romance. Overall, The Score is a sweet, emotional, and genuinely fun sports romance that made me smile a lot. Highly recommend if you love good chemistry, soft moments, and characters that feel real
Thank you so so much to the author/publishing for allowing me to ARC read.
Pen felt strong, relatable, and easy to root for. I loved how she challenged Leon while also being a safe place for him, and watching them slowly choose each other was incredibly satisfying. Their banter was playful, their connection felt genuine, and the emotional beats landed perfectly without feeling heavy.
The sports aspect added just enough tension to keep things exciting while still keeping the focus on the romance. Overall, The Score is a sweet, emotional, and genuinely fun sports romance that made me smile a lot. Highly recommend if you love good chemistry, soft moments, and characters that feel real
Thank you so so much to the author/publishing for allowing me to ARC read.
February 2, 2026
The Score was such a fun, feel-good read with surprising emotional depth. A friends-to-lovers romance with a clever twist on the marriage of convenience trope? Say less.
Bear is an absolute top-tier man. The devotion. The quiet yearning. I was genuinely jealous of Pen the entire book. And let’s be honest—the mouth on that man? Elite.
What I loved most was how layered this story felt. Yes, it’s playful and sexy and full of banter, but it also digs into friendship, chosen family, and the fear of wanting something so badly you’re scared to reach for it. The bucket list element added such a fun touch.
Overall, The Score delivered laughs, longing, spice, and emotion in equal measure. A cozy yet meaningful romance that left me smiling long after the final page.
Tropes:
🔥Best Friends to Lovers
💍 Fake Marriage
🏈 Footballer
🤍 Found Family
📝 Bucket List
Highly recommend if you love pining MMCs and romances that balance fun with feeling.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from Netgally
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is adorable! I'm obsessed with this couple.
This is a book about two best friends that marry each other for a reason (a good one) and end up finding out they love each other.
Pen is a skeptical when it comes to love and she is also an anti-romance type of person but if there is someone that change it is Bear.
Bear is a green flag all the way, he is everything Pen can ever need, a friend, a best friend, a boyfriend and an husband.
I really liked that their romance is slow burn and it builds up that tension. I also really liked how Bear is very Pen oriented like for example, he wants to touch her but since he knows that at this time she doesn't feel like it, he holds it even though he's already at a breaking point.
The spicy scenes were very well done and their chemistry was insane.
Overall it's a great book, perfect for anyone that loves a cute and cozy romance.
I want to thank the author for accepting in their ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
This is a book about two best friends that marry each other for a reason (a good one) and end up finding out they love each other.
Pen is a skeptical when it comes to love and she is also an anti-romance type of person but if there is someone that change it is Bear.
Bear is a green flag all the way, he is everything Pen can ever need, a friend, a best friend, a boyfriend and an husband.
I really liked that their romance is slow burn and it builds up that tension. I also really liked how Bear is very Pen oriented like for example, he wants to touch her but since he knows that at this time she doesn't feel like it, he holds it even though he's already at a breaking point.
The spicy scenes were very well done and their chemistry was insane.
Overall it's a great book, perfect for anyone that loves a cute and cozy romance.
I want to thank the author for accepting in their ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
February 2, 2026If you've been reading the Seattle Strike series by Leonor Soliz, you're absolutely going to love this book. Pen and Bear were worth the wait.
Their friendship and dynamic have been fun to witness as secondary characters in other stories, but this, their actual story, was so so good.
The perfect combination of sweet and spicy, I found myself wishing for my very own Bear to cuddle with. The trust and connection carried into the development of their relationship, and it was so much fun to read.
You'll have to pick up a copy to see what I mean. (Also, Dom had better get his own book next, y'all! I'm serious.)
* I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book directly from the author, but I would have loved it just as much if I hadn't! All opinions are obviously my own, but I think I'm supposed to include that part.
Their friendship and dynamic have been fun to witness as secondary characters in other stories, but this, their actual story, was so so good.
The perfect combination of sweet and spicy, I found myself wishing for my very own Bear to cuddle with. The trust and connection carried into the development of their relationship, and it was so much fun to read.
You'll have to pick up a copy to see what I mean. (Also, Dom had better get his own book next, y'all! I'm serious.)
* I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book directly from the author, but I would have loved it just as much if I hadn't! All opinions are obviously my own, but I think I'm supposed to include that part.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Seattle Strike continues with my most anticipated couple. Friends to lovers done exceptionally well. The depth of emotion and friendship was amazing, and the way they came to accept the love between them was so smooth and beautiful. The banter felt natural, the story flowed perfectly, and the humor between both Bear and Pen, as well as everyone in the Strike group was so great.
I don't know if fake marriage is an accurate description, but it is a trope that could be used. Bear and Pen's story was just so easy to read, so magical, and made me cry at times.
If you like the friends to lovers trope, this book is for you. No doubt about it. It also sets up the next story with ease and humor. So if you want a deep, but natural story of friends to lovers, The Score is for you. I cannot wait until the next book!
I don't know if fake marriage is an accurate description, but it is a trope that could be used. Bear and Pen's story was just so easy to read, so magical, and made me cry at times.
If you like the friends to lovers trope, this book is for you. No doubt about it. It also sets up the next story with ease and humor. So if you want a deep, but natural story of friends to lovers, The Score is for you. I cannot wait until the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I am only to happy to give it.
When I was first notified I had been chosen as an ARC reader for this book I was so excited because I had already read books 1 and 2 and I loved them. I couldn't wait to read Bear and Pen's story. But this author sure does love a slow burn!
Bear absolutely perfect in his devotion and his love (both platonic and romantic) for Pen.
Pen is so oblivious to her best friend's feelings for her and her past has led her to doubt herself in any romantic sense.
The wait here, because you know Miss Leanor always delivers with a happy ending, is what makes the story so hot. You know it it's going to happen but the build up to it is just as spicy.
I absolutely loved this book and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
When I was first notified I had been chosen as an ARC reader for this book I was so excited because I had already read books 1 and 2 and I loved them. I couldn't wait to read Bear and Pen's story. But this author sure does love a slow burn!
Bear absolutely perfect in his devotion and his love (both platonic and romantic) for Pen.
Pen is so oblivious to her best friend's feelings for her and her past has led her to doubt herself in any romantic sense.
The wait here, because you know Miss Leanor always delivers with a happy ending, is what makes the story so hot. You know it it's going to happen but the build up to it is just as spicy.
I absolutely loved this book and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
February 5, 2026
I was so excited when I saw the cover and description of this book. It has some of my favorite troupes, fake marriage and sports romance, as well as Plus Size representation! And let’s be honest, it doesn’t hurt my feelings that the MMC looks like Jason Kelce…
The Score was laugh out loud funny, gave SERIOUSLY real representation of people working in the human services industry and the challenges they face, as well as the burnout you might feel in these type of roles.
The Score felt deeply personal to me, and as a plus size woman and someone who has been incredibly hurt in relationships, I found Penelope super relatable. And what is there to even say about the MMC, Leon? It gives a girl hope that there are still good guys out there, I I literally wrote in my notes “May this type of love find me in every life time”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Pen and Leon (aka Bear) have been best friends since they were ten years old. Almost 20 years later, Pen's father's health is failing and he has always dreamed of walking her down the aisle. The two friends decide to get fake married...or is it actually real?
I had a lot of fun with this story. It's a trope I have always enjoyed and Pen and Bear are really fun characters to read. In addition to the overall story being fun, the smut was well written! One small part of the book that was not my favorite were the text messages added in- it was hard to read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I had a lot of fun with this story. It's a trope I have always enjoyed and Pen and Bear are really fun characters to read. In addition to the overall story being fun, the smut was well written! One small part of the book that was not my favorite were the text messages added in- it was hard to read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What happens when you swear your marriage is totally platonic… and then your feelings decide to expose you? 😂 This book, that’s what happens.
A marriage of convenience between two childhood best friends unlocked all the unprocessed and unspoken feelings they kept from each other. Years of buried emotions come bubbling to the surface as they navigate their journey from denial to love, resulting in a cozy and heartwarming feelings.
I love the confident, lovable characters, and the plus-size representation felt authentic and thoughtfully done. A comforting read that leaves you smiling.
Im thankful to be given the opportunity to read this in advance.
A marriage of convenience between two childhood best friends unlocked all the unprocessed and unspoken feelings they kept from each other. Years of buried emotions come bubbling to the surface as they navigate their journey from denial to love, resulting in a cozy and heartwarming feelings.
I love the confident, lovable characters, and the plus-size representation felt authentic and thoughtfully done. A comforting read that leaves you smiling.
Im thankful to be given the opportunity to read this in advance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First I need to say I have been waiting for Bear and Pen’s story since they were introduced in the first book!!
There were times when Pen was thinking (present or past) of Bear and I wanted to shake her and make her realize… girl! That’s LOVE! And NOT platonic! Pen’s mildly awkward thoughts to herself are hilarious and super relatable. Those forehead and temple kisses from Bear… *swoon*!!
This is a slow burn, but ohhh does it pay off to wait! The revelations Pen and Bear each have is a great journey…
Would rate this book 100/10 if I could!! 😉
There were times when Pen was thinking (present or past) of Bear and I wanted to shake her and make her realize… girl! That’s LOVE! And NOT platonic! Pen’s mildly awkward thoughts to herself are hilarious and super relatable. Those forehead and temple kisses from Bear… *swoon*!!
This is a slow burn, but ohhh does it pay off to wait! The revelations Pen and Bear each have is a great journey…
Would rate this book 100/10 if I could!! 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finally get it when the booktok girls talk about their book boyfriends. Before this I had never read someone that could really be it but Leon Karlssen is it. Leonor Soliz just writes the most emotionally intelligent men. It gives me hope that they exist in real life.
Friends to lovers is my absolute favorite trope. Sometimes its overdone, or not done well. She did it perfectly. She mixed it friends to lovers with marriage of Convenience and it was the perfect amount of swoon.
Thank you Leonor for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always all words are my own.
Friends to lovers is my absolute favorite trope. Sometimes its overdone, or not done well. She did it perfectly. She mixed it friends to lovers with marriage of Convenience and it was the perfect amount of swoon.
Thank you Leonor for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always all words are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I. ATE. THIS. BOOK. UP!
This is my introduction to this author and I will absolutely be reading the rest of the series and her other works. This friends to lovers story gave us a really good slow burn/yearning. The amount of spice was perfection and REALLY good (chapter 44 🤤) but the plot was there and kept me intrigued. I could not put this book down.
If you are looking for a cutesy romance with a slow burn and really great spice, this is your book ❤️
This is my introduction to this author and I will absolutely be reading the rest of the series and her other works. This friends to lovers story gave us a really good slow burn/yearning. The amount of spice was perfection and REALLY good (chapter 44 🤤) but the plot was there and kept me intrigued. I could not put this book down.
If you are looking for a cutesy romance with a slow burn and really great spice, this is your book ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
This was a really cute and heartwarming story of my favourite friends to lovers trope.
Pen & Bear have been together since forever and it’s endearing how they always have each others’ backs. Bear is really the loveable best friend a girl could ever ask for and it was really sweet of him to always put Pen first and how he’s so careful with her heart.
Thank you to author, Leonor Soliz for this eARC opportunity. I felt really good reading Bear and Pen’s story.
Pen & Bear have been together since forever and it’s endearing how they always have each others’ backs. Bear is really the loveable best friend a girl could ever ask for and it was really sweet of him to always put Pen first and how he’s so careful with her heart.
Thank you to author, Leonor Soliz for this eARC opportunity. I felt really good reading Bear and Pen’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Two best friends, Fake wedding, everyone know but them, plus Size couple? I am here for them all. This story was so beautiful, having a friendship with someone since you where young is something not a lot of people can find but when you find love in that friendship is a dream come true even if it takes longer for their hearts to recognize it. Leonard writes beautiful stories, with characters you can relate to plus their friend group? Is one I have come to love so much. This series? A must read.
January 31, 2026
Best friends, fake marriage, falling forever in love. They are the type of love that you just love to read about. Add in the fact that he’s been hiding his feelings away from her makes it complete. Her bucket list, him helping her was the best! The cabin had me cracking up! There wasn’t anything I didn’t love about this. And hey Dom, we see you…maybe he’ll be getting an intervention next!
February 1, 2026
I was lucky to receive an ARC of The Score. This book had me hooked right away and I couldn’t put it down. I loved the characters and the friendship storyline. The author did a great job building the characters but also building their love story but also keeping their friendship strong. I loved this book and I can’t wait to read the other books in the series.
February 4, 2026
Oh the yearning in this one! If you’ve read the other Seattle Strike books you’ve seen the build up between Pen and Bear. Literally everyone knew they were in love and meant to be but Pen. I enjoyed how Bear made sure all her bucket list items were checked off and he showed his love through action. Overall, a very sweet friends to lovers story.
Review of advance copy
The Score was such a fun read! I loved Pen and Bear’s relationship!
🏈 pro football player mmc
❤️ they have been friends since childhood
🏈 it’s always been you
❤️ marriage of convenience
Thank you to Leonor Soliz for the ARC!
🏈 pro football player mmc
❤️ they have been friends since childhood
🏈 it’s always been you
❤️ marriage of convenience
Thank you to Leonor Soliz for the ARC!
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