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Love & Legacy #4

Sweet Oblivion

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From #1 Amazon and USA Today Bestselling Author Bella Matthews comes a marriage of convenience, billionaire, sports romance.

I never wanted to get married.
Until the night my life went up in flames, and Ryker Beneventi walked into the fire to save me.

The Philadelphia Kings’ scorching hot defensive end has a tendency of doing that . . .
Protecting me is instinct.
Marrying me is strategy.
Calling me “ his wife ” . . . That’s for fun.

One carefully crafted press release later, and I’m standing beside the most photographed man in football, wearing a diamond I didn’t choose, and bearing a last name revered in this town.

It’s supposed to be temporary.
A clean solution to a messy problem.
But nothing about our marriage is as it seems.

Because somewhere between the locked doors and late nights, the lines between love and legacy blur. Until the only thing left more terrifying than the night that forced us together . . .
Is how scared I am to walk away.

310 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2026

960 people are currently reading
13096 people want to read

About the author

Bella Matthews

40 books4,107 followers

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5 stars
2,377 (60%)
4 stars
1,120 (28%)
3 stars
378 (9%)
2 stars
39 (<1%)
1 star
11 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 790 reviews
Profile Image for Kayla | Kayla Reads Smut.
371 reviews711 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 14, 2026
I really wish Kroydon Hills wasn't fictional because the way that I want to deep dive and live in this fictional universe Bella has created. So yeah, going back to Kroydon Hills is one of my favorite past times. Now going back for Ryker and Delaney's story? I couldn't be happier. These two also fully solidified my love and obsession with Bella's world that she has created. This book is quite literally now of the easiest 5 star ratings I could ever give.

I have been saying this for the last several years but Bella's universe is truly such a comfort read for me. Every time I pick up a book it's like coming home to a nice warm hug. I love every single one of her books and her couples. Now I do have a favorite MMC *cough* Ares Wilder *cough* that Bella has been trying for two years to top. She has come real close with Daddy Mav. And I have said, if there is one MMC to take Ares stop spot it would be Ryker. Now I will not confirm nor deny if he took that top spot because it creates such a moral dilemma for me 👀 which I'm sure that answer is all you need to know. But just know, I am still a puddle on the floor. Ryker was everything I wanted and so much more than I would have ever expected. Is if literal fictional perfection and I love him so much!

Ryker and Delaney's story is so much more than a marriage of convenience. Bella tackled the tough subject of sexual assault. So if that is a trigger for you, please check the triggers before picking this one up. But the way that Ryker was so protective of Delaney and the way that he saved her life not once but twice in this book made me love him so much. But let's not discount Lane, because she also wanted to save him for saving her through a marriage of convenience. And let's face it, there was nothing fake about a marriage that turns into forever.

On top of that, I love the ASL representation that continues to show throughout this series but with Ryker being hard of hearing, I loved the ASL so much in this one. And the way that Lane was so bad at ASL but tried so hard for Ryker. Not to mention the banter surrounding the bad ASL had me cracking up.

Listen, if you have not read Bella yet, first off what is wrong with you? Secondly, now is the time to start because her books just keep getting better and better. Her stories make me forget I am reading. I am fully immersed in the story that she has teleported me to. And I don't know how she does it but I hope she never stops! So please, pick up a Bella book and fall in love with the tight knit found family and you can thank me later!

You read this book if you like:
- Football Romance
- Marriage of Convenience
- Spicy Lessons
-Man Obsessed
- He Falls First and HARD
- Found Family
- Virgin FMC
- ASL Rep

* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Bella Matthews for allowing me the pleasure to read Sweet Oblivion as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Profile Image for Anca A.
563 reviews58 followers
April 23, 2026
#Review: *Sweet Oblivion* - Bella Matthews - ARC [18+]
4.9/5✨
3/5🌶️

Delaney Rousseau and Ryker Beneventi were part of the same group of friends, which often put them in close proximity to each other. One thing they never thought about was that a terrible event could force them to marry each other and pretend to be more than just friends. But the lines were getting blurred pretty fast and it became harder to distinguish what was in fact real and what was fake. Will Delaney be able to let Ryker in her heart after everything she's been through in her life?

This was hands down one of the best books I've read by Bella!! 😍😍 That's just my opinion, because these characters were sooo darn easy to love and everything they've been through has made me so emotional!! I think that I have a soft spot for MMCs which have lost their hearing and who are using ASL sign🤭, because I simply fell in love with Ryker, who was such a wonderful and protective man. It was sooo sweet to see how gentle and careful he was with Delaney, knowing exactly what to do to ease down her worries, considering the delicate situation she was in. Delaney was such a fighter and I appreciated her a lot for that, liking that she also was depicted in a more fragile state, which only confirmed that she was such a badass. I loved her for being so strong and for still fighting so hard to find her happiness, in spite of everything that she's been through.

This story touched so many sensitive topics and that's why it's best to check out the triggers of this book before diving into it. This love between our main characters was filled with so much vulnerability and that was something which deeply impressed me. As usual, I love the fact that Bella's books aren't very long, covering exactly what is essential in creating a truly beautiful story, which was so easy to read in only one sitting.

I'm so grateful for being part of Bella's influencer team!😍 That offered the opportunity to apply for this e-ARC by Bella and I wanna thank her and the rest of the team for accepting me for this book!!💗

✨Tropes
▫️Marriage of Convenience
▫️Billionaire Romance
▫️Touch Her & Die
▫️Spicy Lessons
▫️Guarded Hearts
▫️Virgin Heroine
▫️Fake to Forever
▫️Hurt/Comfort
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Football Player
Profile Image for Kaity.
1,804 reviews40 followers
April 15, 2026
hawt dayummmm... ;pppppppppppp
Profile Image for Megan Coggins.
740 reviews169 followers
April 15, 2026
I’ve yet to meet a Bella Matthew’s FMC or MMC I don’t love.

Ryker 🏈
Dear god I knew he was going to be good.
NFL player
Abs and tats
Deaf/ASL rep
Man was obsessed with our girl

Delaney🌸
Ashton’s surprise sister
Sad/troubled childhood/life
DV rep
Pig momma
Girl embodied strength

The marriage of convenience trope was done A+
Little bit of a suspense aspect
Forced proximity
“My wife” melted me into a puddle

This series is a complete banger.

Arc review ✨
Profile Image for Sim-fully Ever After.
250 reviews41 followers
April 17, 2026
5🌟, 3🌶️

I booked a one-way ticket to Kroydon Hills and willingly spiraled into sweet oblivion… and now I’m refusing to come back.

I was soooo ready for this story and it delivered everything.

Being back in this world felt like comfort in the best way, and Ryker and Delaney’s story made me fall even harder. This was such an easy five star for me. I flew through it, completely hooked, and did not want to leave these characters behind. And Ryker… yeah, I’m still recovering.

This is so much more than a marriage of convenience. It’s emotional, intense, and full of heart. Delaney’s past is heartbreaking, but watching her slowly feel safe and start to heal meant everything. Ryker is exactly the kind of love she needed, protective, patient, and completely gone for her from the start. The way they show up for each other, support each other, and grow together felt so real. It’s not just romance, it’s healing, trust, and choosing each other again and again.

I also loved all the little things that made this story stand out. The ASL representation, the effort, the banter, and the found family all added so much warmth and personality. Even with the heavier themes, it never felt overwhelming, just meaningful. Everything about this story pulled me in and kept me there.

This series has my whole heart at this point.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Bella Matthews and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Profile Image for Jenny | The Jenny Edit.
698 reviews32 followers
April 12, 2026
Bella never ever disappoints and as the Love & Legacy series has unfolded, I’ve contributed to be amazed by her storytelling talent — capturing my attention and my heart with every single story.

Sweet Oblivion — and its focus on Ryker and Delaney — is an incredible addition to the Bella-verse and is a story I won’t soon forget. It focuses on subjects that are tough and has on-page events that were heart-wrenching to read (mind your triggers if you have any), but she executes everything with sensitivity, emotion and grace that is quintessential Bella.

I gobbled this up in a few hours and am so in love with these characters and the story of their love coming to fruition through some harrowing times. No notes. Just loved it.

Thanks so much to Bella for this ARC!!
Profile Image for Amanda Bennett.
312 reviews18 followers
April 14, 2026
5⭐️
2🌶

Ryker is officially my favorite Bella Mathews man, not that I'm surprised though. Delaney's story BROKE my heart and everything that poor girl had gone through. She deserves the absolute world and Ryker is going to give it to her!

Here's what I have to say:
'MY WIFE' 💍🤪
Touch her & D!E💀(iykyk)
The secret pining 🫠
Delaney is a SURVIVOR and I'm completely in awe of her.
Ryker is the protector she needed to feel safe for the first time in her life.
Spicy Lessons that HIT 🥵🔥
A massive, over the top Wedding that didn't feel all that fake. 😉

Sooo yeah, I was obsessed with this book.
Profile Image for ashlee ❤.
2,151 reviews121 followers
April 13, 2026
Ryker + Delaney

-football romance
-billionaire romance
-marriage of convenience
-virgin heroine
-hurt/comfort
-spicy lessons

this story played out perfectly perfect for these two & how their meet cute worked & their familial ties to each other. it was a bit heavier than some past ones of bellas but it was exactly what these characters were & needed for each other.
Profile Image for all.the.smut.things.
701 reviews556 followers
April 27, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

The way that I loved these two! Dear lord, Bella saved the best Beneventi for last. I swear, I don’t realize Ryker was going to completely take top spot but he absolutely did.

And Delaney, she was such a different heroine for Bella and I loved her so much. They were perfect. This books is perfect, and I will forever down at the feet of a protective MMC.

✨ Football Romance
✨Marriage of Convenience
✨ Fake to Forever
✨ Touch her and ☠️
✨ Virgin Heroine
✨ Spicy Lessons
✨ Forced Proximity

This one had my heart in my throat the whole time. It was a rollercoaster for sure (check trigger warnings) but I enjoyed every single second of it.

Ryker’s fascination with Delaney is adorable and when they are forced to get married, watching Ryker prove himself to Delaney over and over again was beautiful to see unfold.

And Delaney, she had a rough past, so entering her not only got into Rykers world, but open up to Ryker as well…. I was kicking my feet and squealing.

The spicy lessons were perfect. The swooniness was top notch… I loved the nicknames Ryker had for Delaney and of course I loved Tori the pig.

Bella always surprises me no matter how many of her books I’ve read and I always fall more and more in love with her characters.

This book was perfect and I loved it.

* I read this book as an ARC from Bella and her team. Alls reviews are my own.
Profile Image for lucialeelibros.
527 reviews27 followers
April 13, 2026
I’ve been waiting for three books for this to be Ryder’s story, and finally I had it in my hands, it was INCREDIBLE to read. I love it. I love it. I love it.

My bad boy, and he’s perfect. This book has all the elements that make it one of Bella’s best: a marriage of convenience, a handsome man with tattoos and piercings, a damsel in distress, and a chaotic family.

I LOVE coming here every now and then, thanks for letting me read this ARC, Bella 💗
Profile Image for Maggie.
366 reviews12 followers
April 15, 2026
to all the girlies who’ve been waiting for ryker’s book: our time has come!!!! he’s truly the only man ever <33

ryker & delaney’s book was sooo good!! i’ve loved ryker since forever & i knew i’d love everything about him so i was more excited to get to know delaney. we got a lil sneak in sweet surrender, but she definitely deserved her own book!! she’d gone through so much and deserved something good. i’m soo happy she found a safe space with ryker (& everyone in kroydon hills). delaney & ryker were meant to be <3333
Profile Image for Ariday Books.
320 reviews62 followers
April 17, 2026
Este libro es tan hermoso 😭❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹desde que conocí a Ryker en sweet surrender sabía que lo iba a amar y efectivamente fue perfecto este hombre 🥰🥹 el hecho de que sea parcialmente sordo solo me hizo amar más su personaje y toda esta dinámica que tuvo con Lane para comunicarse. El libro para mí estuvo excelente, fue muy tierno y la historia de amor de los dos es por lejos mi favorita💌

<“I’m not giving you an annulment. Till death do us part, Delaney. And we’re both still breathing.”>

—————
Thank you so much Valentine PR for the ARC💘

Tropes:
•matrimonio por conveniencia
•sport romance
•proximidad forzada
•one bed
•sport romance

Delaney🐽:
Ella es una chica que creció en un lugar abusivo, toda su vida se trató de tratar de sobrevivir a su padre. Ahora que por fin es libre de él, solo busca ser independiente y tratar de mantenerse alejada lo más que pueda de todos. Solo que ni su nueva hermana, ni sus amigos ni mucho menos Ryker piensas dejarla sola😭🥹

Ryker🏈:
El es un jugador de futbol americano que debido a un accidente quedó parcialmente sordo. Solo gracias a que cuenta con una familia muy numerosa y cercana que lo apoya y aprenden ASL puede vivir una vida lo más normal posible ✨

Historia 📝:
Desde que Ryker conoció a Dalaney supo que la quería y no esperó nada para invitarla a salir. Solo que Dalaney enseguida lo rechazó y por los próximos meses Ryker no volvió a saber de ella. Hasta que Dalaney por fin logra escapar de las garras de su padre y está viviendo una vida cerca de los amigos y familia de Ryker. Él no pensaba volver a molestar a Dalaney después de que lo rechazó pero una noche ella se ve atrapada en una situación donde el no lo piensa dos veces y la rescata. Solo que esa situación los llevará a tener que fingir estar en un matrimonio por amor para aparentar 💌

Pensamientos 💭:
Me sentí muy identificada con la historia de Dalaney. Tal vez no vivimos exactamente lo mismo pero muchos de sus miedos y penas se sintieron como los que sentí viviendo en un lugar que no era seguro 🥲. Mi niña le tocó vivir tanto hasta el final del libro que ya solo quería que la dejaran tranquila 😭. Por este motivo siento que el libro fue demasiado hermoso porque puedes ver como Dalaney por fin pudo tener lo que merecía. Un hombre que la ame por sobre todas las cosas y una familia que está para ella siempre ❤️‍🩹.
Me hubiera encantado que la autora nos pusiera la escena donde se conocieron por primera vez. O no se si está en otro libro esa escena porque si sentí que en un principio me estaba perdiendo de algo😂


English:

This book is so beautiful 😭❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹 Ever since I met Ryker in Sweet Surrender, I knew I was going to love him, and he absolutely did not disappoint. This man was perfect 🥰🥹 The fact that he is partially deaf only made me love his character even more, especially seeing the way he and Lane communicated. Their dynamic was just so sweet and special.

For me, the book was excellent—very tender—and their love story is by far my favorite 💌

“I’m not giving you an annulment. Till death do us part, Delaney. And we’re both still breathing.”

—————
Thank you so much Valentine PR for the ARC 💘

Tropes:
• marriage of convenience
• sports romance
• forced proximity
• one bed
• sports romance

Delaney 🐽:
She’s a girl who grew up in an abusive environment. Her whole life was about surviving her father. Now that she’s finally free from him, all she wants is to be independent and stay away from everyone as much as possible. But neither her new sister, nor her friends, nor Ryker are willing to leave her alone 😭🥹

Ryker 🏈:
He’s a football player who became partially deaf after an accident. Thanks to his large, close-knit family who supports him and learned ASL, he’s able to live as normal a life as possible ✨

Story 📝:
From the moment Ryker met Delaney, he knew he wanted her and didn’t hesitate to ask her out. She immediately rejected him, and for months he didn’t hear from her again. Until Delaney finally manages to escape her father’s grip and starts living near Ryker’s friends and family. He didn’t plan on bothering her again after she rejected him, but one night she ends up in a dangerous situation and he doesn’t hesitate to step in and save her. That situation ends up forcing them into a fake marriage arrangement to keep up appearances 💌

Thoughts 💭:
I really related to Delaney’s story. Maybe we didn’t go through exactly the same things, but many of her fears and feelings reminded me of what it feels like to live in an unsafe environment 🥲. My girl went through so much until the very end of the book. I just wanted her to finally be left in peace 😭. Because of that, I truly think the book was beautiful, since you can see Delaney finally getting what she deserved: a man who loves her above everything and a family that’s always there for her ❤️‍🩹.

I would’ve loved if the author included the scene where they first met. Or I’m not sure if it’s in another book, because I did feel like I was missing something at the beginning 😂
Profile Image for Sydney B.
537 reviews27 followers
April 15, 2026
“𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦. 𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘪𝘳. 𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩. 𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦.”

5/⭐️
2/🌶️

I say this everytime Bella releases a new story.. but this really is my new favorite 🥹🥹 Ryker and Delaney were so much more than I ever could’ve imagined. There’s some heavy topics so please read the warnings. A marriage of convenience where they’re both all in, like there really was no push or pull, these two just belonged together and I think they both knew it from the start. I truly devoured this story because I could not set it down without knowing what was going to happen next. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I could go on and on about all the details and everything I loved! It’s another MUST READ. Spicy lessons x MY WIFE x he’s pierced 🤭 it’s just too good!!

Also can we talk about the side characters?? Liv, Scarlet and Lenny all together??? Let me just bow down real quick, my queens. I cannot wait for the day Bella gives us Liv’s story 👏🏼 Bella might write the best MMCs, but she also writes my favorite FMCs and they deserve their credit as well. Delaney absolutely fits into this category now too. This girl. She deserves all the love, all the friends, all the family, everything. And there’s no one better than a Beneventi for that 🥹🤍

I just need everyone to know that if I could move to Kroydon Hills I’d be there in a heartbeat. This world is my absolute favorite. Bella goes us beautiful stories each time and my heart just always feels fuller after. If you haven’t read Bella’s books yet, jump in, start somewhere, it’s the best place. 🤍

🤍 What to expect:
Marriage of Convenience 
Billionaire Romance
Football Romance 
Hurt/Comfort 
Guarded Hearts 
Touch Her and D!e
Spicy Lessons 
Fake to Forever 
V!rgin Heroine
319 reviews84 followers
May 5, 2026
Sweet Oblivion 𝘣𝘺 𝘉𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘸𝘴⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~⁣⁣~~~~~~~~~~~~~⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
🔎𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒🔎⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Leads: ⁣Delaney Rousseau and Ryker Beneventi
HEA: ✅⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
📖 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎 📖 ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Kindle Unlimited: ✅⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Audible: coming in the future…⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Series: ✅ ~ Love & Legacy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
📝𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝗪📝⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
There are not enough words to say home much I love this book! It is filled with so many layers of emotions and really packs a punch!
🔹
The Kroydon Hills world will forever be my happy place! I love these family’s like my own and the books have gotten me through some hard times! Bella does such an incredible job capturing so much resiliency in these characters.
🔹
Delaney has had such a hard childhood and is finally starting to heal after meeting her sister Ashton. She is such a strong character and proves time and after time how she puts everyone’s feelings before her own. Cue Ryker Beneventi….
🔹
Ryker meets Delaney at the beginning of the summer before he even finds out she is connecting to Ashton. Having lost a majority of his hearing during high school Ryker has had many obstacles to get to where he is today as the starting defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Kings. Even though he knows he has grown up in a very privileged family he works hard to have this opportunity.
🔹
When the unthinkable happens to Delaney and Ryker steps into protect and rescue her, Delaney makes the decision to now protect Ryker from the consequences.
🔹
You don’t want to miss falling in love with Ryker and Delaney oh and don’t forget Tori (the pet pig!) !! I highly recommend this book and if you haven’t read any of Bella’s previous books you are missing out on an amazing world!
Profile Image for Emmy Wong.
461 reviews17 followers
April 22, 2026
I just love that micro-trope where the fmc is in trouble and the mmc (because he’s being pining after her forever) says something stupid like “oh I’m her husband/boyfriend” and then they both realise they’re now in deep shite because they have to go through with it. And Bella Matthews is QUEEN of this trope, because the marriage of convenience was done so damn well, just the right amount of tension and angst, mixed with sweet domestic moments that I can’t help but swoon about. I love the Love and Legacy series and this is probably know my second favourite from this spectacular series. The plot was amazing, starting on a terribly sad and angsty note but I loved how Ryker helped build up Delaney’s confidence, and how Delaney chose to stand by Ryker no matter what. They had so much chemistry from beginning to end and the spicy lessons? Damn they have me in a chokehold still, because this man has a JACOBS LADDER. My one complaint is how at around the 60-80% mark of the book, the plot slows down and relies more on the spicy lessons and nice moments (which is good there was just too much of a slow down in my opinion).
However, the plot twists in the last 20% of the book truly make up for it because holy moly I was on my knees. The shock and the emotional wreck I was during those final twists should be compensated for. But the character development in this book was beautiful, and I loved watching Delaney from this closed off girl scared of love, to this badass woman who carries love with pride. I give this a 4/5
Profile Image for Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily).
1,725 reviews125 followers
April 15, 2026
I have been frothing at the mouth for Ryker's story ever since we met him in Maverick's (I think) book. He is such an interesting character that I couldn't wait to read more about! And the way he is so down bad for Delaney in this book totally fit the side character that we all met and loved.

Marriage of convenience
Hurt x comfort
Forced proximity
He falls first
Football romance

Ryker is a star professional football player. And he is instantly attracted to the girl at the bar, who won't give him the time of day. Here we are years later and Delaney and Ryker find themselves in an impossible situation. Delaney has been through a horrible ordeal, and Ryker is the one who saved her. But now he needs the saving.

I loved Ryker's undying loyalty to Delaney. He is there for her 100%, and while it takes Delaney a bit longer, she is there for Ryker in every way that counts. This is one of Bella's deeper books that really backs an emotional punch.
Profile Image for Emely Tavarez.
93 reviews24 followers
April 24, 2026
*ARC Review*

5 ⭐️ | 2.6 🌶️

THIS is what I’m talking about!!

Angst and tension and fmc in danger and mmc to her rescue and blood and overprotectiveness AND THEN marriage of convenience with spicy lessons plus hurt and comfort and blood again and he’s pierced and “my wife” and did I mention jacob’s ladder? also yearning and found family.

Bella did her big one with this one🤌🏼✨

🩵“This woman has been out of my life more months than she’s been in it. It’s not like she’s had a lifetime of using ASL. She’s not good at it, and she forgets more than she doesn’t. But she tries, and she’s so damn cute when she fucks it up.”

🩵“Husband”
“And why is that word one of the best I’ve ever strained to hear?” My heartttt
Profile Image for Dolly McTavish.
75 reviews5 followers
April 14, 2026
Omg!
OMGGGG!!
Bella - this book..?!!!!!
Absolutely in love with Ryker and Lane but I may have scared my kids with the intensity of my tears whilst reading!
These two - ahhhh - they were just so perfect for one another! So many moments I loved.
Their earlier connection. Ryker’s unwavering love. Lane letting him in even though she doesn’t trust anyone.
And the whole Kroydon Hills gang.
I love this family! I love their stories and this was the most emotional one yet.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series and I wish I could read this all over again. So much love for this universe!
Thank you so much to Bella and Valentine PR for the ARC
All the damn stars for this one ♾️⭐️
Profile Image for Maria Burnell.
70 reviews
April 15, 2026
I was lucky enough to be able to read Sweet Oblivion Patreon ARC which was exciting for me because I haven’t done one for Bella Matthews, which really made me so excited because she’s one of my favorite authors. I’ve read all of her books and I’ve loved every single one of them.

Then I got this one about Ryker & Delaney and it all went up in flames lol these two were everything and all the above. These two I was just speechless and I really loved them both, I’ve always loved Ryker from him in the other books he’s a funny guy. Delaney I didn’t know much about her just from reading a few parts from Sweet Surrender, but now that I know what I know about her and her story I love her.

Bella always writes the best books well stories actually and I am grateful I got to do Sweet Oblivion Patreon ARC for this beautiful book.
Profile Image for Valentine.
265 reviews6 followers
April 17, 2026
Bella Matthews did it again! I really enjoyed it, I love Delaney she is so strong and Ryker was so supportive and patient with her. They are so beautiful.

Hope next book is Hendrix !!
Profile Image for lucialeelibros.
527 reviews27 followers
Want to Read
February 9, 2026
okay let's try again... THIS BETTER to be Ryker book okay? okay love u bella

Profile Image for Mayville (Tourbiez Reads).
406 reviews7 followers
April 16, 2026
5 Stars✨
2.5 Spices🌶️

Not only is this book Bella Matthews at her finest, but this latest installment is also my favorite in the series. Ryker has captured my interest after meeting him in the first book. However, I didn't anticipate how much love and happiness his story with Delaney would fill my heart. I adore this book in every way—far more than I ever would have imagined.

Sweet Oblivion is the fourth book in the Love & Legacy series that follows the story of Ryker Beneventi, an NHL pro football player, and Delaney Rousseau, a florist who works in Love in Bloom in Kroydon Hills.
While it tackles the sensitive subjects of trauma and sexual abuse, it also delves into the themes of family dynamics, romance, second chances in life, and peace.

Bella has written not only a story suggesting that healing requires both acknowledging past trauma and forming new, healthy attachments, but also demonstrates how appropriate therapeutic boundaries and patience can create space for profound emotional healing.
I also enjoyed the ASL representation in this book. Ryker has a hearing problem, but Bella has emphasized that his struggle with this is not a disability to be fixed, but a difference to be understood and embraced.

Delaney’s character sheds light on different ways there are to cope with trauma, emphasizing that there is no right or wrong path toward healing from such life-changing experiences.
Ryker is charismatic and full of surprises, but he’s also unlike anyone Delaney has ever known. He encourages her to look at life from a different perspective, helping her reconnect with the world around her, starting with his family, and giving her the motivation to heal from the trauma that has been holding her back.
Together, Ryker and Delaney are flawless despite weaknesses. Their undeniable connection radiates a blend of enchantment, spice, and empathy that enhances the overall swoony and captivating reading experience. The arranged marriage has made it possible for them to explore each other's desires, views, and reassurance.

At its heart, Sweet Oblivion is about self-acceptance, survival, love, and the unbreakable bond of family. It masterfully blends humour with a touch of drama, showing that even in the messiest of lives, there’s still room for hope, resilience, and triumph.
A book that is highly recommended if you fancy stories that explore how love persists through pain and how embracing imperfection can lead to healing and growth.

Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Bella Matthews and her Team for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
Profile Image for Heather Miller.
1,549 reviews53 followers
April 20, 2026
Book Trope: Football Romance, Marriage of Convenience, Spicy Lessons, Man Obsessed, He Falls First and HARD, Virgin FMC, ASL

Back to our favorite small town, Kroydon Hills. We have Ryker Beneventi. He plays professional football. He lost his hearing in a accident when he was younger. It wasn't just his parents who learned sign language, it was the entire family and extended family all learned so he would be included in everything. He does wear hearing aids that have really helped him when he can't read lips or misses the signing.

We met Delaney towards the end of book #3, Sweet Surrender. Delaney is 24 and Ashton's older sister. Delaney works the local bar and small store. She has an apartment over the small store. Delaney is very skiddish. She had a rough childhood / teenage years. Delaney doesn't drink, or do drugs, and she's also a virgin. She has been around guys but never been with one she wanted to sleep with.

At the beginning of the book, we see how Ryker and his NFL team are out celebrating at the bar where Delany works. Ryker has been non stop staring at her the whole time they have been there. He wants to ask her out but isn't sure if it'll spook her away. But, when he can't find her after a few minutes towards the end of her shift, he goes outback and finds that someone has already beat her up and is now trying to assault her. Ryker pulls the person off of her. They won't allow him in the ambulance to go to the hospital, so, he says he is her husband. Now the crowd gathered around heard that. All the celebrity news outlets are stating he's married.

After Delaney is released from the hospital Ryker won't let her out of his sight. He takes her back to her apartment to rest and then just stays with her. He doesn't want anyone else to ever hurt her. He wants to protect her, to guard her and to be with her. Delaney doesn't trust easily, and she sees how hard Ryker is trying and she has always like him and she is at ease with him.

Will Ryker be able to protect Delaney from anything else that comes at her / them? Will Delaney be able to brush up on her ASL quick enough to communicate with Ryker?

I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
Profile Image for Sam.
389 reviews32 followers
April 16, 2026
The way I let these Beneventi men ruin my life should be studied because it’s probably unhealthy…but I don’t care! I knew Ryker might take the spot as my top Beneventi man and his book only proved that he did. Plus, I mean…he’s pierced?! So as soon as I heard that I knew I was cooked. Delaney Rousseau only helped matters because she was the sweetest angel baby, but she was still so strong and brave. It was great to see her find a group of friends who loved and supported her after so many years without that kind of love in her life. It was also great that she never once cared about Ryker because of his status as a Beneventi or a Kings player. She only wanted him for who he was (even if it took her some time to fully admit that). Ryker was the best man ever; seeing him defend Delaney with every bone in his body at all times was swoonworthy. It was hard to see him go through what he did after he defended her, but I loved watching Delaney step up with her whole chest to save him when he needed it because he had already saved her. Watching these two save each other throughout the story was amazing and I loved every second. Ryker was the king of “my wife”...in English and Italian which only made it hotter. I also love how he never shamed Delaney for her ASL mistakes but rather appreciated that she was willing to learn at all so she could communicate with him. I loved watching these two open up to each other throughout the story. Delaney, rightfully, had a hard time trusting people, but she was willing to let Ryker in right from the start even when it scared her. I loved that she was open about her fears with Ryker, though, and let him help her through her fear and learn to trust him. Ryker always took things at Delaney’s pace and never pushed her before she was ready to do anything, and I love that about him because he knew deep down what she needed even when she didn’t. Basically, I loved these two and they are now my top Kroydon Hills couple of all time and I will hear no criticism of them ever, thank you. These two will live rent-free in my head forever, but I still can’t wait to see what happens next in Kroydon Hills!


Thank you, Bella, for providing me with an ARC!
Profile Image for Geeky Author.
256 reviews6 followers
April 16, 2026
4.5/5 Stars

Comfort read, swoon fest, and everything I love about this world.

I truly and thoroughly enjoyed Sweet Oblivion—and honestly, returning to Bella Mathews’ Kroydon Hills world always feels like coming home.

Ryker and Delaney were just perfect.
Individually strong, together even better.

Let’s talk about Delaney first—because she was the highlight for me. Mentally strong, grounded, and beautifully self-aware. She’s been through so much, and yes, she’s guarded—but she never lets her past define her or stop her from showing up fully in her relationship.

And that’s what I loved the most: she chose love without hesitation.

No unnecessary push-pull. No dragging things out. Just—I’m in, and I’m all in.

And Ryker? Absolutely adored her.

From the very first page, this man was gone—and unlike so many MMCs, he didn’t play games, didn’t hold back, didn’t make her question where she stood. He loved her openly, consistently, and loudly.

And don’t even get me started on all the: “my wife” / “my husband” moments 😭
I swooned. Every. Single. Time.

Their relationship just felt easy, solid, and deeply rooted in mutual respect, which made it such a satisfying read.

And of course—the chaos that is this extended universe:

The Sinclairs, Kingstons, Beneventis, St. Jameses, and Murphys are basically a six-degrees-of-Kevin-Bacon web of love, drama, and absolute madness—and I am obsessed. Every cameo, every interaction just adds to the charm.

Also, can we talk about Olivia St. James??

I want to be her when I grow up.
And I am fully invested in her story.

Olivia + Hendrix better be a couple and be next. I need it. Immediately. I mean, I know this book was released today but is it too soon to ask for the next one? Asking for a friend!
Profile Image for Brooke.
1,082 reviews55 followers
April 24, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐-> ♾️🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶


💕 Marriage Of Convenience 💍
✨️ Football Romance
💕 He Falls First & HARD
✨️ Spicy Lessons
💕 Found Family 
✨️ Man Obsessed
💕 Virgin FMC
✨️ ASL Rep

⚠️ CHECK YOUR CONTENT/TRIGGER WARNINGS! Protect your mental peace ☮️⚠️

✨️ 📚 ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️

I will say that with every book that Bella writes I am more and more less likely to want to leave Kroydon Hills. Every single time I come back I am encompassed into this world and its like a huge comfy hug! I just love these characters and their whole world!

Ryker and Delaney are two of my favorite characters that Bella has written! Their communication was rocky with Delaney's ASL BUT she gets major props for learning and teaching herself. I loved that Ryker teased her about it, but he was so appreciative of her want to learn ASL. 

Marriage of Convenience doesn't even begin to describe this whole story. Although it was a huge part, there are so many other layers to this story. Sexual Assault was a HUGE part of this book, but it was done so well by Bella! I was wondering how it would be done, and she hit it hard like a rockstar! It was done so well!

Ryker was so protective of Delaney and I loved him even more than I already did. Delaney needed the protection that he could provide her in more ways than one. He saved her not just once but TWICE!! Ryker was truly an amazing man, and it showed how much he cared for Delaney!

You could see all the way thorugh the marriage of Convenience trope because there was so much love there between Ryker and Delaney! Delaney had the chance to save Ryker, and she refused to let him take no for an answer!

I HIGHLY recommend this book! It is everything you didn't know you needed!

Thank you 🫶🏻 to ✨️ Bella Matthews ✨️ for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest, and voluntary✨️.
Profile Image for Amber (Amber Reads Romance).
1,407 reviews211 followers
April 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

There is just something about all the Beneventi boys because each one Bella writes becomes my new favorite. Of course, Ryker does not disappoint and he was top book boyfriend material for sure. I have been waiting for his romance and it delivered in a more emotional way than the previous books in this series.

Delaney was introduced in the previous book where she helped save her sister from her evil father. She has had a difficult life and she has finally found a family with her newly found sister Ashton and all the Kroyden Hills crew. My heart broke for her, especially with everything she goes through in the opening of this book.

Ryker has been pining after Delaney for a while now, so he jumps at the opportunity to defend her against a creep at the bar one night. Things lead to a dangerous altercation where a marriage of convenience will keep them out of trouble.

I loved everything about this romance. Ryker is so devoted to Delaney and making sure she feels safe and loved. What I loved even more was how immediately all in Delaney was with the marriage of convenience. She was willing to do anything to save Ryker the way he saved her. These two had such a beautiful connection and it was amazing seeing how Ryker broke down Delaney's walls.

Side note: I also loved her cute pet pig and the ASL rep in this book.

🏈 Marriage of Convenience
💍 Football Romance
🏈Found Family
💍Spicy Lessons
🏈Pierced Hero
💍My Wife
🏈He Fell First

Thank you to Bella Matthews for providing the ARC.
Profile Image for Giulia.
202 reviews6 followers
April 15, 2026
“Please don’t break my heart.”
“I’ll protect it with my life, Delaney.”

⭐️4.5

This story delivered exactly what I was hoping for after Sweet Surrender. It’s sweet, heartfelt, and such a quick, engaging read. The chapters flowed nicely, and I genuinely enjoyed every moment, though I wouldn’t have complained about a few more scenes involving his piercings… if you know what I mean 😏

We get a mix of past trauma, a solid plot with a few twists, and a strong focus on healing, especially for the FMC, which I really appreciated.

Ryker already felt like a fully formed, grounded character. He didn’t need major growth so much as the right person by his side—someone who sees him beyond his family name, money, and fame. Enter Delaney. She struggles with trust, but I loved how brave and relentless she is. She faces life head-on, keeping her chin up despite everything. Watching her make it her mission to learn ASL for him was such a meaningful touch—it really showed her commitment and care. In turn, Ryker gives her a sense of safety and the freedom to embrace a more carefree version of herself.

Another standout (just like in the previous books) is the incredible support system of family and friends. They show up when it matters most, while also bringing humor and warmth. Those book club chats had me laughing.

I think I might have an idea of who’s next, and I’m already excited to see where the series goes!

Thank you to Valentine PR for the eARC.
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