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Want You
Octavia Sherwood does not date hockey players.
Nathan Albertson is determined to make a liar out of her.
A fast burn hockey romance with a burn it all down mentality.
Nathan Albertson is determined to make a liar out of her.
A fast burn hockey romance with a burn it all down mentality.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2026
About the author
Finley Clark
1 book14 followersFinley Clark is the pen name of a
Canadian romance author who wanted to
write something her mom and mother-in-
law weren’t going to read. The books that
come out of the Finley side of her brain
are fast burns with virtually no boundaries.
Don’t expect to find slow burns or AI in
this space.
Canadian romance author who wanted to
write something her mom and mother-in-
law weren’t going to read. The books that
come out of the Finley side of her brain
are fast burns with virtually no boundaries.
Don’t expect to find slow burns or AI in
this space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
September 10, 2026
Octavia Sherwood is a lawyer who has made it very clear that hockey players are off-limits, but one disastrous date and one very tempting hockey player have her rules getting complicated fast. What starts as something physical quickly turns into something with actual feelings attached, forcing both of them to figure out what they really want.
I’m getting to the point where fast-burn romance and insta-lust are just exhausting me. This book was HOT, and I absolutely cannot deny that Octavia and Nathan had chemistry, but there was just so much sex, so much thinking about sex, so much wanting to be naked, and so much focusing on each other’s bodies that I eventually felt completely burnt out. By around 75%, I was ready to skim because I desperately wanted more actual plot and character development rather than smut.
Octavia was probably my biggest struggle. She’s strong-willed and feisty, which I normally love, but her constant insistence that she wanted nothing beyond something physical became incredibly irritating, especially when Nathan was upfront from the beginning about what he wanted. It felt like she was sending him mixed signals over and over, 😐 and I was genuinely relieved when she finally stopped fighting the obvious. Also, the way she acted in multiple situations felt especially immature for someone in their thirties who was supposedly in love.
And honestly… where was the character development? 😭 I feel like I could’ve read chapter four, jumped to chapter thirty, and the characters would’ve been almost exactly the same. Nathan was easier for me to like, especially because of how honest he was, but neither character felt explored deeply enough. Their careers were touched on at a surface level, while so much page time went toward their physical relationship.
I did appreciate the way the book addressed the uglier side of hockey culture, sexism, sexual assault, and the importance of believing survivors. Those themes had potential to add something really meaningful, and I liked that the book didn’t completely brush those issues aside. I just wanted the execution to have more depth and feel more believable. Some of the activism and the characters’ reactions felt too easy and neatly resolved, especially considering how serious the situations were
I also wish the hockey element itself had been stronger. As someone who genuinely loves hockey romances, I wanted more of that world instead of feeling like hockey was mostly the backdrop for the romance. And unfortunately, the big twist? I saw it coming within the first few chapters. 😭
There are definitely good ideas here, and I appreciated understanding more about the intention behind the story. I just think the execution didn’t work for me. Great concept, some genuinely hot moments, and important themes, but I needed more depth, development, and actual story to balance out all that spice 🥲
things to know about the book ↓
🩶 hockey player x lawyer
🩶 insta lust/fast burn
🩶 lots of sex (LOTS)
🩶 strong-willed FMC
🩶 he falls first
🩶 dual POV
swearing: yes
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 1, 4, 5, 8, 14, 16, 19, 20, 23, 30, 31, 33, 36, 41
Thank you Finley Clark for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
september 10th- hockey is my fav sports romance and it's been awhile!
i've heard raving reviews for this one in my book group so im really excited to read it!!
I’m getting to the point where fast-burn romance and insta-lust are just exhausting me. This book was HOT, and I absolutely cannot deny that Octavia and Nathan had chemistry, but there was just so much sex, so much thinking about sex, so much wanting to be naked, and so much focusing on each other’s bodies that I eventually felt completely burnt out. By around 75%, I was ready to skim because I desperately wanted more actual plot and character development rather than smut.
Octavia was probably my biggest struggle. She’s strong-willed and feisty, which I normally love, but her constant insistence that she wanted nothing beyond something physical became incredibly irritating, especially when Nathan was upfront from the beginning about what he wanted. It felt like she was sending him mixed signals over and over, 😐 and I was genuinely relieved when she finally stopped fighting the obvious. Also, the way she acted in multiple situations felt especially immature for someone in their thirties who was supposedly in love.
And honestly… where was the character development? 😭 I feel like I could’ve read chapter four, jumped to chapter thirty, and the characters would’ve been almost exactly the same. Nathan was easier for me to like, especially because of how honest he was, but neither character felt explored deeply enough. Their careers were touched on at a surface level, while so much page time went toward their physical relationship.
I did appreciate the way the book addressed the uglier side of hockey culture, sexism, sexual assault, and the importance of believing survivors. Those themes had potential to add something really meaningful, and I liked that the book didn’t completely brush those issues aside. I just wanted the execution to have more depth and feel more believable. Some of the activism and the characters’ reactions felt too easy and neatly resolved, especially considering how serious the situations were
I also wish the hockey element itself had been stronger. As someone who genuinely loves hockey romances, I wanted more of that world instead of feeling like hockey was mostly the backdrop for the romance. And unfortunately, the big twist? I saw it coming within the first few chapters. 😭
There are definitely good ideas here, and I appreciated understanding more about the intention behind the story. I just think the execution didn’t work for me. Great concept, some genuinely hot moments, and important themes, but I needed more depth, development, and actual story to balance out all that spice 🥲
things to know about the book ↓
🩶 hockey player x lawyer
🩶 insta lust/fast burn
🩶 lots of sex (LOTS)
🩶 strong-willed FMC
🩶 he falls first
🩶 dual POV
swearing: yes
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 1, 4, 5, 8, 14, 16, 19, 20, 23, 30, 31, 33, 36, 41
Thank you Finley Clark for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
september 10th- hockey is my fav sports romance and it's been awhile!
i've heard raving reviews for this one in my book group so im really excited to read it!!
August 16, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
Rating~ 2.5 rounded up
This book had some serious twists! After Octavia gets stood up by her date, she meets Nathan, and they immediately hit it off. What starts as an agreement to keep things strictly physical quickly becomes more complicated.
Honestly, I did not care for Octavia. She’s allowed to feel the way she does, but I felt like she was judgmental of Nathan based on his career without ever really getting to know him. Whenever he tried to get more personal, she was rather savage about shutting him down and keeping things from becoming too deep. By the time she finally opened up emotionally, I didn’t feel like she deserved him.
Nathan was pretty solid and upfront with Octavia. I found him very charming, and he was pretty much an open book with her.
Overall, while I struggled with Octavia’s character, Nathan and the unexpected twists kept me invested in the story. The deeper topics discussed toward the end were unexpected, but I appreciated how the characters handled it together.
Rating~ 2.5 rounded up
This book had some serious twists! After Octavia gets stood up by her date, she meets Nathan, and they immediately hit it off. What starts as an agreement to keep things strictly physical quickly becomes more complicated.
Honestly, I did not care for Octavia. She’s allowed to feel the way she does, but I felt like she was judgmental of Nathan based on his career without ever really getting to know him. Whenever he tried to get more personal, she was rather savage about shutting him down and keeping things from becoming too deep. By the time she finally opened up emotionally, I didn’t feel like she deserved him.
Nathan was pretty solid and upfront with Octavia. I found him very charming, and he was pretty much an open book with her.
Overall, while I struggled with Octavia’s character, Nathan and the unexpected twists kept me invested in the story. The deeper topics discussed toward the end were unexpected, but I appreciated how the characters handled it together.
July 29, 2026
All the stars!
Finley Clark - Want You!
This was a fantastic debut by author Finley Clark.
Through 3/4 of this book, my heart was racing. I was messaging the author sharing my feelings of anxiousness, in a good way! The build up was intense!
The Octavia and Nathan were fully blown out and well developed. There was considerable growth for both Octavia and Nathan throughout the story as well as a special side character - Scottie. Oh my heart.
The scenery was painted beautifully.
The tensions were palpable! Oh the tensions!
I love how there was also real life hockey issues being brought up and wound into the characters story.
The spice is there (oh the spice) and doesn’t pull away from the story, it’s in perfect spots and I love how Octavia and Nathan realize throughout that they don’t ‘need’ to be sexual all the time and Nathan is even ‘moving’ away from it in places because he just wants to live and breathe Octavia in.
They’re soulmates mind, body and soul!
Finley Clark - Want You!
This was a fantastic debut by author Finley Clark.
Through 3/4 of this book, my heart was racing. I was messaging the author sharing my feelings of anxiousness, in a good way! The build up was intense!
The Octavia and Nathan were fully blown out and well developed. There was considerable growth for both Octavia and Nathan throughout the story as well as a special side character - Scottie. Oh my heart.
The scenery was painted beautifully.
The tensions were palpable! Oh the tensions!
I love how there was also real life hockey issues being brought up and wound into the characters story.
The spice is there (oh the spice) and doesn’t pull away from the story, it’s in perfect spots and I love how Octavia and Nathan realize throughout that they don’t ‘need’ to be sexual all the time and Nathan is even ‘moving’ away from it in places because he just wants to live and breathe Octavia in.
They’re soulmates mind, body and soul!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2026
Want You by Finley Clark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The author wasn’t lying when they said this was a fast burn and I’ll tell you, they had be captivated by chapter one.
I loved Octavia and Nathan’s connection and I loved that they both brought themselves authentically to this relationship. Nathen fell hard and first but Octavia could not resist his charm but also appreciates the level head and intelligence he brings as well.
I could feel the authors rage coming through the pages about toxic hockey culture and blatant sexism that we are currently trying to reckon with and it felt extremely timely. I love that Octavia and Nathan work together, wanting to make this change and that it wasn’t on one person shoulders.
There’s a certain type of hope that was felt that was coupled with this rage and I truly want this hope to be alive so we can make a change and demand better.
$1 dollar from every sale of this book will go to the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada. Want You comes out Sept 10! Go out there and buy this book.
This is the first book of The Ablertsons series and I cannot wait to read what comes next!
Thank you @finleyclark for the arc copy in exchange for an onset review.
🏒hockey player MMC
📚Lawyer FMC
🏒he falls first
📚FaceTime dates
🏒it’s just physical
📚he owns his mistakes
🏒burn it all down mentality
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The author wasn’t lying when they said this was a fast burn and I’ll tell you, they had be captivated by chapter one.
I loved Octavia and Nathan’s connection and I loved that they both brought themselves authentically to this relationship. Nathen fell hard and first but Octavia could not resist his charm but also appreciates the level head and intelligence he brings as well.
I could feel the authors rage coming through the pages about toxic hockey culture and blatant sexism that we are currently trying to reckon with and it felt extremely timely. I love that Octavia and Nathan work together, wanting to make this change and that it wasn’t on one person shoulders.
There’s a certain type of hope that was felt that was coupled with this rage and I truly want this hope to be alive so we can make a change and demand better.
$1 dollar from every sale of this book will go to the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada. Want You comes out Sept 10! Go out there and buy this book.
This is the first book of The Ablertsons series and I cannot wait to read what comes next!
Thank you @finleyclark for the arc copy in exchange for an onset review.
🏒hockey player MMC
📚Lawyer FMC
🏒he falls first
📚FaceTime dates
🏒it’s just physical
📚he owns his mistakes
🏒burn it all down mentality
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2026
When the author said fast burn, she wasn’t kidding! Spicy, spicy, spicy! And I loved every second.
As a hockey fan, I also felt every bit of the rage coming through Clark’s story. With the continued “old boys club” and toxic culture of hockey, we need more books that allow us to escape into a fantasy of what the hockey world could look like instead of the dumpster fire it is.
Can’t wait for the next one from one of my auto-buy authors!
As a hockey fan, I also felt every bit of the rage coming through Clark’s story. With the continued “old boys club” and toxic culture of hockey, we need more books that allow us to escape into a fantasy of what the hockey world could look like instead of the dumpster fire it is.
Can’t wait for the next one from one of my auto-buy authors!
September 4, 2026
I devoured this spicy, hockey romance in just a couple of sittings. I could not put it down for multiple reasons.
First off, the spice hits from page one. It is fast, hot, and literally what fantasies are made of. This continues throughout the book because our MCs cannot keep their hands off one another! Woo! The spice is SO good though because it’s all so female positive, and sex positive, and consent positive and and and….the list goes on.
The book is more than just steam and such however. Clark brings to the foreground the real life Hockey Canada scandal. I absolutely loved how she wrote this into the story, and put a spin on it that really, really makes me wish it had played out like that in real life. It’s not something I’ve seen addressed in other hockey romances and I’m so glad Clark kept the conversation going here because it’s not stopped in hockey, or other sports for that matter and we need to keep talking about it till something changes.
Romance friends 👋🏻 I highly recommend you put this on your TBRs!
First off, the spice hits from page one. It is fast, hot, and literally what fantasies are made of. This continues throughout the book because our MCs cannot keep their hands off one another! Woo! The spice is SO good though because it’s all so female positive, and sex positive, and consent positive and and and….the list goes on.
The book is more than just steam and such however. Clark brings to the foreground the real life Hockey Canada scandal. I absolutely loved how she wrote this into the story, and put a spin on it that really, really makes me wish it had played out like that in real life. It’s not something I’ve seen addressed in other hockey romances and I’m so glad Clark kept the conversation going here because it’s not stopped in hockey, or other sports for that matter and we need to keep talking about it till something changes.
Romance friends 👋🏻 I highly recommend you put this on your TBRs!
August 31, 2026
Steamy. Timely. Binge-worthy. An excellent debut from Finley Clark.
August 12, 2026
✨Arc Review
What To Expect:
✨Lawyer x Hockey Player
✨He Falls First
✨Fast Burn
✨3rd Person POV
This is my first read with this author and I throughly enjoyed this book. I do love a good sports romance book and this one also touched on the toxicity of the sport (hockey).
Nathan and Octavia were good together. He was such a green flag. He knew what he wanted and went for it. They had instant chemistry and it flowed well throughout the book.
Both their families were great too, I'm happy everyone got along so well.
It does have a lot of spice in the book!
Excited for the next books!
What To Expect:
✨Lawyer x Hockey Player
✨He Falls First
✨Fast Burn
✨3rd Person POV
This is my first read with this author and I throughly enjoyed this book. I do love a good sports romance book and this one also touched on the toxicity of the sport (hockey).
Nathan and Octavia were good together. He was such a green flag. He knew what he wanted and went for it. They had instant chemistry and it flowed well throughout the book.
Both their families were great too, I'm happy everyone got along so well.
It does have a lot of spice in the book!
Excited for the next books!
August 12, 2026
✨✨✨Review of a Advanced copy received from Author✨✨✨
Thank you Finley Clark for this ARC! This was a very spicy read with a good message behind it about how toxic the overall hockey culture can be. I enjoied the book overall , and the writing was great and the pace didn’t drag along like some books can.
I wish there had been I bit more plot and story between the two of them a lot of it was mainly just physical encounters which is fine I just enjoy more plot with my spice helps the characters feel alive and fleshed out to me.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Finley Clark for this ARC! This was a very spicy read with a good message behind it about how toxic the overall hockey culture can be. I enjoied the book overall , and the writing was great and the pace didn’t drag along like some books can.
I wish there had been I bit more plot and story between the two of them a lot of it was mainly just physical encounters which is fine I just enjoy more plot with my spice helps the characters feel alive and fleshed out to me.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2026
Great book 5 stars, can’t wait for Scottie’s book.
August 12, 2026
This book is AMAZING! The BEST fast burn romance I have ever read! 🔥
Pub Day: September 10th
-Hockey Player x Lawyer
-Fast Burn
-Green Flag MMC
-He Falls First
-FaceTime Dates
-Third Person POV
This is EXACTLY how a hockey romance should be written! You can absolutely tell the author is a true hockey fan by both their knowledge and passion for the sport, as well as calling out the issues in hockey culture.
As a fast burn, this book definitely delivers on the spice immediately. The story is so much fun, I couldn’t put it down!
HOWEVER - there is SO much more to this book than that! The characters have a swift physical connection, but as you keep reading, the story just keeps getting even better
Octavia and Nathan are just perfection ❤️ They are both so authentic and lovable! I was head over heels for their cute, quirky banter and I love how playful they are together!
I appreciate that both characters are well developed, with complex histories, families, and backgrounds. It is so wonderful watching them evolve in their vulnerability and honesty, as they come to terms with their true feelings.
I also really respect the author for putting a spotlight on the underlying issues in hockey culture. These are very real problems that occur all the time, especially in the sports world, and should absolutely be discussed more!
This book is #1 in ‘The Albertsons’ series! I’m in love with this entire family and I can’t wait to see what the next books have in store!
I could not recommend this book more highly!!! Infinity Stars!!!
This is officially out on Sept 10th, so go preorder it now and thank me later!
***$1 from every purchase of this book will go to Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada! What an incredible cause!***
A huge thank you to Finley Clark for the ARC!
Pub Day: September 10th
-Hockey Player x Lawyer
-Fast Burn
-Green Flag MMC
-He Falls First
-FaceTime Dates
-Third Person POV
This is EXACTLY how a hockey romance should be written! You can absolutely tell the author is a true hockey fan by both their knowledge and passion for the sport, as well as calling out the issues in hockey culture.
As a fast burn, this book definitely delivers on the spice immediately. The story is so much fun, I couldn’t put it down!
HOWEVER - there is SO much more to this book than that! The characters have a swift physical connection, but as you keep reading, the story just keeps getting even better
Octavia and Nathan are just perfection ❤️ They are both so authentic and lovable! I was head over heels for their cute, quirky banter and I love how playful they are together!
I appreciate that both characters are well developed, with complex histories, families, and backgrounds. It is so wonderful watching them evolve in their vulnerability and honesty, as they come to terms with their true feelings.
I also really respect the author for putting a spotlight on the underlying issues in hockey culture. These are very real problems that occur all the time, especially in the sports world, and should absolutely be discussed more!
This book is #1 in ‘The Albertsons’ series! I’m in love with this entire family and I can’t wait to see what the next books have in store!
I could not recommend this book more highly!!! Infinity Stars!!!
This is officially out on Sept 10th, so go preorder it now and thank me later!
***$1 from every purchase of this book will go to Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada! What an incredible cause!***
A huge thank you to Finley Clark for the ARC!
August 11, 2026
If you need a book to get you out of a reading slump, this is the one for you. I couldn’t put it down. Fast paced romance with golden retriever x black cat vibes. Loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 17, 2026
NGL, this book was 🌶🔥
Probably a bit too much spice for me as this kept me from actually taking both characters seriously.
There was a scene I did particularly enjoy and it is embedded in my mind.
My first book by this author and hopefully not my last.
Many thanks to the author for the Opportunity to read in advance and share my thoughts.
Probably a bit too much spice for me as this kept me from actually taking both characters seriously.
There was a scene I did particularly enjoy and it is embedded in my mind.
My first book by this author and hopefully not my last.
Many thanks to the author for the Opportunity to read in advance and share my thoughts.
August 23, 2026
“I will never date a hockey player”, Octavia swore this about her dating life. Little did she know, meeting Nathan at a hotel bar, after being stood up, would change her life.
Problem is, Nathan is a professional hockey player. Octavia decides to make an exception because it’s not a real relationship, until it is.
This new book by Finley Clark, the pen name of Canadian romance author Meghan McSpadden, deals with some heavy subjects. Subjects like sexual assault in professional hockey culture. This book kept my attention from the beginning. The characters developed their relationship by being vulnerable with themselves and each other.
5⭐️
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
Problem is, Nathan is a professional hockey player. Octavia decides to make an exception because it’s not a real relationship, until it is.
This new book by Finley Clark, the pen name of Canadian romance author Meghan McSpadden, deals with some heavy subjects. Subjects like sexual assault in professional hockey culture. This book kept my attention from the beginning. The characters developed their relationship by being vulnerable with themselves and each other.
5⭐️
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
"Want You"
(The Albertsons Book 1)
by Finley Clark
One day I was scrolling IG and I came across a post looking for ARC readers for this book; I looked at the cover and I thought "I'm in".
New author, first book, hockey, with THIS stunning cover? That's for me.
And when I later realized this was Megan McSpadden's pen name writing spice (ma'am...🔥) I was happy to have signed for it.
This book is very, very different from Megan's books (the ones I have read), so I understand the ideia of a pen name.
It is a very fast burn, spicy and very hot, with anticipation and goosebumps and so much imagination (but make it fast) along the way.
Nathan, a hockey player, and Octavia, a lawyer, meet by chance in a bar. The attraction is immediate and the spice hits right on chapter 1 and there it goes... spicing for sure 🥵
Their first intimate encounter is abruptly interrupted by a phone call. Days later she goes see a hockey game with a coworker and they meet again. And again. And again, because they can't get enough.
And what starts with physical attraction, evolves into feelings from both sides. They both become better people because of each other.
But did I mention this one spices? Oh, it does 🌶️
Releasing September 10.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
---
some of my favorite quotes:
🏒
He had hockey thighs and she would wager that if he turned around, she'd see a hockey a-s-s too.
🏒
Octavia was breathing so fast she thought she'd pass out as his lips skimmed her inner thigh.
🏒
He was going to take her apart, leave her in pieces two feet inside the room. Aside from her underwear, they were both still fully clothed, for f*ck's sake.
🏒
Octavia wasn't jus s€x. She was a f*cking promise of something bigger.
🏒
A need to be caught. A desire to let him catch and devour her.
🏒
"I'm not letting her go without a fight and I've got stamina."
🏒
"And I know, without a shadow of a doubt, I've never wanted anything as much as I want you."
🏒
Her lips were like home
🏒
"Your laugh is one of my favorite sounds."
🏒
"I have never been consumed by anyone the way you consume me."
🏒
"F*ck, Octavia, do you know how sexy your brain is?"
🏒
"Want You"
(The Albertsons Book 1)
by Finley Clark
One day I was scrolling IG and I came across a post looking for ARC readers for this book; I looked at the cover and I thought "I'm in".
New author, first book, hockey, with THIS stunning cover? That's for me.
And when I later realized this was Megan McSpadden's pen name writing spice (ma'am...🔥) I was happy to have signed for it.
This book is very, very different from Megan's books (the ones I have read), so I understand the ideia of a pen name.
It is a very fast burn, spicy and very hot, with anticipation and goosebumps and so much imagination (but make it fast) along the way.
Nathan, a hockey player, and Octavia, a lawyer, meet by chance in a bar. The attraction is immediate and the spice hits right on chapter 1 and there it goes... spicing for sure 🥵
Their first intimate encounter is abruptly interrupted by a phone call. Days later she goes see a hockey game with a coworker and they meet again. And again. And again, because they can't get enough.
And what starts with physical attraction, evolves into feelings from both sides. They both become better people because of each other.
But did I mention this one spices? Oh, it does 🌶️
Releasing September 10.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
---
some of my favorite quotes:
🏒
He had hockey thighs and she would wager that if he turned around, she'd see a hockey a-s-s too.
🏒
Octavia was breathing so fast she thought she'd pass out as his lips skimmed her inner thigh.
🏒
He was going to take her apart, leave her in pieces two feet inside the room. Aside from her underwear, they were both still fully clothed, for f*ck's sake.
🏒
Octavia wasn't jus s€x. She was a f*cking promise of something bigger.
🏒
A need to be caught. A desire to let him catch and devour her.
🏒
"I'm not letting her go without a fight and I've got stamina."
🏒
"And I know, without a shadow of a doubt, I've never wanted anything as much as I want you."
🏒
Her lips were like home
🏒
"Your laugh is one of my favorite sounds."
🏒
"I have never been consumed by anyone the way you consume me."
🏒
"F*ck, Octavia, do you know how sexy your brain is?"
🏒
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Finley Clark for this ARC! This is no ordinary hockey romance. It is a call for real change to a toxic culture (along with it being the spiciest hockey romance I’ve ever read).
While this was a fast burn book, the pace was still appropriate. Certain key moments received the attention and care to allow the reader to feel the emotions. I really enjoyed the numerous references and inspiration drawn from actual events and stories within the NHL. I thought Finley incorporated these into the story thoroughly and brought to light to several toxic and negative issues with hockey culture.
Both Nathan and Octavia are on their own journeys of self discovery, and yet, they’re choosing each other at the same time. The level of communication and openness was well written and still felt realistic. As the story progresses, it was nice to see their relationship develop from something purely physical to real communication and supporting each other.
Nathan is patient, persevering, and has integrity. I love his character arc. He shows a lot of depth beyond just hockey as the story progresses and it was very refreshing to read. Octavia is very relatable in her approach to love and her work, and that’s probably why it took longer for her to resonate with me. I enjoyed how Finley set up her personal and professional growth.
This is more than just a hockey romance. This story highlights that silence is complicity. It is important to speak out and learn how to take action against toxic cultures and any general wrongdoings. While this is fiction, these are still important reminders for the times we currently live in. This book solidified for me that I will continue to support the NHL, but now, as an informed fan, with the hopes to see it become a more inclusive and just sport for everyone.
What I love about this book:
👤3rd person POV
⚖️ She’s a lawyer
🏒 He’s an NHL player
🩶 Hockey culture (good, bad + ugly!)
🔥 Fast burn
⏩ He falls first and HARD
🇨🇦 Story set in Toronto, written in Canadian English
🧠 Mental health and wellbeing
🫂 Family bonds
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
While this was a fast burn book, the pace was still appropriate. Certain key moments received the attention and care to allow the reader to feel the emotions. I really enjoyed the numerous references and inspiration drawn from actual events and stories within the NHL. I thought Finley incorporated these into the story thoroughly and brought to light to several toxic and negative issues with hockey culture.
Both Nathan and Octavia are on their own journeys of self discovery, and yet, they’re choosing each other at the same time. The level of communication and openness was well written and still felt realistic. As the story progresses, it was nice to see their relationship develop from something purely physical to real communication and supporting each other.
Nathan is patient, persevering, and has integrity. I love his character arc. He shows a lot of depth beyond just hockey as the story progresses and it was very refreshing to read. Octavia is very relatable in her approach to love and her work, and that’s probably why it took longer for her to resonate with me. I enjoyed how Finley set up her personal and professional growth.
This is more than just a hockey romance. This story highlights that silence is complicity. It is important to speak out and learn how to take action against toxic cultures and any general wrongdoings. While this is fiction, these are still important reminders for the times we currently live in. This book solidified for me that I will continue to support the NHL, but now, as an informed fan, with the hopes to see it become a more inclusive and just sport for everyone.
What I love about this book:
👤3rd person POV
⚖️ She’s a lawyer
🏒 He’s an NHL player
🩶 Hockey culture (good, bad + ugly!)
🔥 Fast burn
⏩ He falls first and HARD
🇨🇦 Story set in Toronto, written in Canadian English
🧠 Mental health and wellbeing
🫂 Family bonds
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received this book as an ARC from Finley Clark. It was a quick, entertaining read, but I probably would have rated it a 2.75, so I rounded up to a 3.
Our FMC, Octavia, a lawyer, is in a hotel bar waiting on a blind date when she realizes she’s been stood up. It’s not completely blind, as they’ve been getting to know each other for weeks on an app. To get over her disappointment, she ends up hooking up with a cute pro hockey player (Nathan) who has walked into the bar and started flirting with her. She has an immediate hatred of hockey players, which at first bothered me, but I guess if I grew up in Toronto I would just know the type immediately? Anyway, she continues to hold a candle for her missed date, and worries about why he didn’t show up. She wants a sex only relationship with Nathan, but she seems to go from 0 to 100 because in no time at all she’s planning her life with him, quitting her job and looking at cottages in the mountains.
A lot of the sex was hot, but their pet names were super cheesy in my opinion. What bothered me the most about this story was that Nathan was supposedly an angel in a sea of hockey players that were sexual predators. When some random hockey players are embroiled in a sexual assault case, Octavia goes completely berserk and blames him. Several times both of them ghost the other without a word for days even though they supposedly are in love. It reads as super immature, and they are in their 30s.
I have nothing against a book with a cause, but the activism in this book seemed really unrealistic to me. I realize that a lot of the culture in hockey is misogynistic, but I just didn’t buy this hockey player calling everyone in the industry out. He was doing it because Octavia was on the line.
Our FMC, Octavia, a lawyer, is in a hotel bar waiting on a blind date when she realizes she’s been stood up. It’s not completely blind, as they’ve been getting to know each other for weeks on an app. To get over her disappointment, she ends up hooking up with a cute pro hockey player (Nathan) who has walked into the bar and started flirting with her. She has an immediate hatred of hockey players, which at first bothered me, but I guess if I grew up in Toronto I would just know the type immediately? Anyway, she continues to hold a candle for her missed date, and worries about why he didn’t show up. She wants a sex only relationship with Nathan, but she seems to go from 0 to 100 because in no time at all she’s planning her life with him, quitting her job and looking at cottages in the mountains.
A lot of the sex was hot, but their pet names were super cheesy in my opinion. What bothered me the most about this story was that Nathan was supposedly an angel in a sea of hockey players that were sexual predators. When some random hockey players are embroiled in a sexual assault case, Octavia goes completely berserk and blames him. Several times both of them ghost the other without a word for days even though they supposedly are in love. It reads as super immature, and they are in their 30s.
I have nothing against a book with a cause, but the activism in this book seemed really unrealistic to me. I realize that a lot of the culture in hockey is misogynistic, but I just didn’t buy this hockey player calling everyone in the industry out. He was doing it because Octavia was on the line.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
★★★★★
𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝔴𝔞𝔰 𝔲𝔫𝔢𝔵𝔭𝔢𝔠𝔱𝔢𝔡𝔩𝔶 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔭𝔩𝔢𝔞𝔰𝔞𝔫𝔱𝔩𝔶 𝔰𝔲𝔯𝔭𝔯𝔦𝔰𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔪𝔢.
One of the things I appreciated most was how much awareness this book brought to me. It was genuinely educational for me, and that's something I didn't expect going into this book.
I also really enjoyed Nathan and Octavia's relationship. The way they figured themselves out individually and then figured out what they wanted from each other was beautifully portrayed. I especially appreciated Nathan as a character and the way his ego never seemed to get in the way of communicating what he wanted or doing what was right for their relationship. He turned out to be very different from the impression I initially got from the blurb, and I'm really glad I gave this book a chance.
And the spice? 𝙎𝙢𝙤𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬. 🔥
Their intimacy was definitely a highlight, and there is quite a bit of spice here, so definitely be aware of that going in. I don't really want to explain much more about it because honestly, you're better off reading it yourself if you want to know. 😂
I don't think I have a lot more to explain about this book without giving away the things I enjoyed discovering for myself. I just genuinely loved reading it, especially because I went in with a completely different expectation and ended up getting something I appreciated so much more.
Definitely recommended if you want a romance that takes you deeper into the ice hockey world, brings awareness to a topic that is very rarely talked about, and gives you a relationship with plenty of chemistry along the way.
Thank you to Finley Clark for gifting me an ARC of 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮🤍
𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝔴𝔞𝔰 𝔲𝔫𝔢𝔵𝔭𝔢𝔠𝔱𝔢𝔡𝔩𝔶 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔭𝔩𝔢𝔞𝔰𝔞𝔫𝔱𝔩𝔶 𝔰𝔲𝔯𝔭𝔯𝔦𝔰𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔪𝔢.
One of the things I appreciated most was how much awareness this book brought to me. It was genuinely educational for me, and that's something I didn't expect going into this book.
I also really enjoyed Nathan and Octavia's relationship. The way they figured themselves out individually and then figured out what they wanted from each other was beautifully portrayed. I especially appreciated Nathan as a character and the way his ego never seemed to get in the way of communicating what he wanted or doing what was right for their relationship. He turned out to be very different from the impression I initially got from the blurb, and I'm really glad I gave this book a chance.
And the spice? 𝙎𝙢𝙤𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬. 🔥
Their intimacy was definitely a highlight, and there is quite a bit of spice here, so definitely be aware of that going in. I don't really want to explain much more about it because honestly, you're better off reading it yourself if you want to know. 😂
I don't think I have a lot more to explain about this book without giving away the things I enjoyed discovering for myself. I just genuinely loved reading it, especially because I went in with a completely different expectation and ended up getting something I appreciated so much more.
Definitely recommended if you want a romance that takes you deeper into the ice hockey world, brings awareness to a topic that is very rarely talked about, and gives you a relationship with plenty of chemistry along the way.
Thank you to Finley Clark for gifting me an ARC of 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Review of Advance Copy Received From the Author
Vibe: Hard-hitting sports romance meets real-world sports culture reform
Dynamic: Fast-burn hookup to deep emotional connection
Heat: Extremely spicy and masterfully placed without overpowering the plot
This debut novel is so much more than just a standard sports romance-it is a powerful, eye-opening call for change against toxic hockey culture. The story kicks off when Octavia gets stood up at a hotel where she is to meet her dating app match, only for Nathan and his teammates to show up instead, leading to an intense hookup that was only ever supposed to be physical. What starts as a fast-burn situation quickly evolves as hidden feelings develop and neither wants to admit it.
The chemistry is instant and electric, but what truly sets this apart is the incredible character growth and self-discovery journeys both Octavia and Nathan go through. The author brilliantly weaves real-world NHL inspirations and events into the narrative to highlight that silence is complicity. Watching their communication evolve and seeing them realize that true intimacy goes way beyond the physical bedroom scenes was so refreshing. With phenomenal world-building, gorgeous tension, and a pitch-perfect ending, I am already counting down the days for the next book in the series!
Recommended for:
Readers who love high-heat sports romances with deep emotional growth, meaningful cultural commentary, and characters who learn to communicate through real-life complexities.
As always, please read the trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you Finley Clark for providing me with an early eARC
Vibe: Hard-hitting sports romance meets real-world sports culture reform
Dynamic: Fast-burn hookup to deep emotional connection
Heat: Extremely spicy and masterfully placed without overpowering the plot
This debut novel is so much more than just a standard sports romance-it is a powerful, eye-opening call for change against toxic hockey culture. The story kicks off when Octavia gets stood up at a hotel where she is to meet her dating app match, only for Nathan and his teammates to show up instead, leading to an intense hookup that was only ever supposed to be physical. What starts as a fast-burn situation quickly evolves as hidden feelings develop and neither wants to admit it.
The chemistry is instant and electric, but what truly sets this apart is the incredible character growth and self-discovery journeys both Octavia and Nathan go through. The author brilliantly weaves real-world NHL inspirations and events into the narrative to highlight that silence is complicity. Watching their communication evolve and seeing them realize that true intimacy goes way beyond the physical bedroom scenes was so refreshing. With phenomenal world-building, gorgeous tension, and a pitch-perfect ending, I am already counting down the days for the next book in the series!
Recommended for:
Readers who love high-heat sports romances with deep emotional growth, meaningful cultural commentary, and characters who learn to communicate through real-life complexities.
As always, please read the trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you Finley Clark for providing me with an early eARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. Just Wow!!! 🤯 5 Stars is not enough!
What an incredible story 👏😍
I devoured Want You and still cannot stop thinking about these two!
This book was SPICY HOT 🥵🔥 In the best way 😉 A *very* fast burn which I absolutely loved! Fanning myself while writing this just thinking about them 🫠
When Octavia is stood up on a blind date, Nathan and some of his team members just happen to end up at the same hotel bar and the attraction between them is instant. What starts as a hook up, blooms to so much more ❤️ Their story is woven with love, surprises and the intense negativity of hockey culture. I found it to be the most amazing blend of spicy romance, an attention capturing storyline and tough topics, bringing awareness to victims in hockey world.
Nathan is book boyfriend perfection *swoon* and truly the change we need to see in the hockey world in real life. A powerful voice that will not stay silenced. Paired with Octavia, a strong woman, lawyer and advocate for women and victims, these two are an unstoppable force when the time comes.
I absolutely loved the side characters, both families and their dynamics! I am so excited for Book 2 and Scottie's story (that man deserves alll the love!) ❤️
Finley did an amazing job with the pace of this book and 3rd person story telling (not always my favourite but this was perfect! I seriously couldn't put it down and everything flowed in such an amazing way!)
If you are a fan of spicy hockey romance with powerful interwoven plots then you will love this book!
So grateful to Finley for the ARC 🏒🔥
What an incredible story 👏😍
I devoured Want You and still cannot stop thinking about these two!
This book was SPICY HOT 🥵🔥 In the best way 😉 A *very* fast burn which I absolutely loved! Fanning myself while writing this just thinking about them 🫠
When Octavia is stood up on a blind date, Nathan and some of his team members just happen to end up at the same hotel bar and the attraction between them is instant. What starts as a hook up, blooms to so much more ❤️ Their story is woven with love, surprises and the intense negativity of hockey culture. I found it to be the most amazing blend of spicy romance, an attention capturing storyline and tough topics, bringing awareness to victims in hockey world.
Nathan is book boyfriend perfection *swoon* and truly the change we need to see in the hockey world in real life. A powerful voice that will not stay silenced. Paired with Octavia, a strong woman, lawyer and advocate for women and victims, these two are an unstoppable force when the time comes.
I absolutely loved the side characters, both families and their dynamics! I am so excited for Book 2 and Scottie's story (that man deserves alll the love!) ❤️
Finley did an amazing job with the pace of this book and 3rd person story telling (not always my favourite but this was perfect! I seriously couldn't put it down and everything flowed in such an amazing way!)
If you are a fan of spicy hockey romance with powerful interwoven plots then you will love this book!
So grateful to Finley for the ARC 🏒🔥
September 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
4 🌶️
Spicy hockey romance + a social conscience = Yes, please!
Nathan and Octavia meet in a hotel bar when her date no-shows. Their chemistry is undeniable from the start and what is supposed to be a one-night stand turns into more when they come face to face at Nate’s hockey game. What starts as a s3x only relationship quickly becomes more.
You know what’s even hotter than physical chemistry? Mature, adult communication and partnership. Nathan and Octavia’s relationship, even from the start, was based on honesty and open communication and it gave the characters such a beautiful, personal, and more realistic connection. But Nate and Octavia also had insane physical chemistry, as well. Like melt your kindle, five alarm HOT!! 🥵🔥 So truly the best of both world! 🤭
This book also tackles the huge, incredibly relevant issue of misogyny, s3xual assault and consent. Let’s start breaking down the old social constructs. No more “boys will be boys” and “locker room” talk b.s. It is past time for not only sports culture, but also business/corporate culture to evolve. Also, BELIEVE THE VICTIMS.
Nate and Octavia’s book is a beautiful balance between the righteous anger of misogyny and a spicy but also mature, hockey romance. I’m already looking forward to book 2 in the series!
What to Expect:
Hockey Player x Lawyer
Hockey Romance
Fast Burn
He Falls First
3rd Person POV
*Thank you to Finley/Megan for the opportunity to read an arc of this book.
4 🌶️
Spicy hockey romance + a social conscience = Yes, please!
Nathan and Octavia meet in a hotel bar when her date no-shows. Their chemistry is undeniable from the start and what is supposed to be a one-night stand turns into more when they come face to face at Nate’s hockey game. What starts as a s3x only relationship quickly becomes more.
You know what’s even hotter than physical chemistry? Mature, adult communication and partnership. Nathan and Octavia’s relationship, even from the start, was based on honesty and open communication and it gave the characters such a beautiful, personal, and more realistic connection. But Nate and Octavia also had insane physical chemistry, as well. Like melt your kindle, five alarm HOT!! 🥵🔥 So truly the best of both world! 🤭
This book also tackles the huge, incredibly relevant issue of misogyny, s3xual assault and consent. Let’s start breaking down the old social constructs. No more “boys will be boys” and “locker room” talk b.s. It is past time for not only sports culture, but also business/corporate culture to evolve. Also, BELIEVE THE VICTIMS.
Nate and Octavia’s book is a beautiful balance between the righteous anger of misogyny and a spicy but also mature, hockey romance. I’m already looking forward to book 2 in the series!
What to Expect:
Hockey Player x Lawyer
Hockey Romance
Fast Burn
He Falls First
3rd Person POV
*Thank you to Finley/Megan for the opportunity to read an arc of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an eARC! This is an honest review; all opinions are my own.
*
Octavia and Nathan are such a great couple - Nathan is instantly drawn to her and Octavia is understandably hesitant about taking up with him. Yes, there is spice (and it is GOOD) but I would honestly say the emotional appeal is what makes it so good. They are both so engaging from the very beginning of the book, both as a couple and individually. Nathan’s family is so sweet and feels so real (especially his relationship with Scotty and their mom). Octavia, on the other hand, is a lawyer and is fiercely independent. She is proud of and invested in her career, but she also cares so deeply about people - even when she’s trying to keep Nathan at arm’s length she is still so empathetic to him. A huge conflict later in the novel exemplifies this perfectly, how she is ready to take up for other people and stand up for them even if she doesn’t know them. She has a strong sense of morals and so does Nathan, which is why they work so well together once they start building a real relationship.
I also really loved the discussions about hockey culture that become prominent in the last half of the novel. It felt really meaningful and was a great way to come full circle with some of Octavia’s initial hesitation with Nathan. This novel is definitely worth the read!
*
Octavia and Nathan are such a great couple - Nathan is instantly drawn to her and Octavia is understandably hesitant about taking up with him. Yes, there is spice (and it is GOOD) but I would honestly say the emotional appeal is what makes it so good. They are both so engaging from the very beginning of the book, both as a couple and individually. Nathan’s family is so sweet and feels so real (especially his relationship with Scotty and their mom). Octavia, on the other hand, is a lawyer and is fiercely independent. She is proud of and invested in her career, but she also cares so deeply about people - even when she’s trying to keep Nathan at arm’s length she is still so empathetic to him. A huge conflict later in the novel exemplifies this perfectly, how she is ready to take up for other people and stand up for them even if she doesn’t know them. She has a strong sense of morals and so does Nathan, which is why they work so well together once they start building a real relationship.
I also really loved the discussions about hockey culture that become prominent in the last half of the novel. It felt really meaningful and was a great way to come full circle with some of Octavia’s initial hesitation with Nathan. This novel is definitely worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC review ✨
⏩ Fast burn
🏒 Hockey X Lawyer romance
❤️🔥 He falls first and hard
📖 3rd person POV
🌶️ Spicy af
Octavia anxiously awaits for her date to arrive but, surprise surprise, he’s ghosted her. Who does she run into on her way out the door? Nathan. What does Octavia have a very strong opinion about? Hockey players.
The way that scenery is explained is beautiful.
The spice was spicing 🥵 Praise k!nk unlocked.
Nathan is a walking green flag. No notes.
Although I predicted the ‘big event’ (not the plot but a big part of the story) within the first few chapters, I really enjoyed reading this book and was completely hooked within the first chapter.
I did find that Octavia was heavily judgmental of Nathan because of his career, and this did bug me a bit because GIRL you literally don’t even know him yet, but the end does make you realise why and completely makes sense.
I love the pace of the story. It didn’t drag which I find a lot of books can.
Overall, a great easy read. I can’t wait to read the next book ✨ Thank you Finley Clark!
Without giving too much away… I’m from the UK so hockey isn’t really a big thing here, but I love the message that Finley Clark has put out to, I hope, a big audience by raising awareness and encouraging change to toxic sports culture.
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ 5
⏩ Fast burn
🏒 Hockey X Lawyer romance
❤️🔥 He falls first and hard
📖 3rd person POV
🌶️ Spicy af
Octavia anxiously awaits for her date to arrive but, surprise surprise, he’s ghosted her. Who does she run into on her way out the door? Nathan. What does Octavia have a very strong opinion about? Hockey players.
The way that scenery is explained is beautiful.
The spice was spicing 🥵 Praise k!nk unlocked.
Nathan is a walking green flag. No notes.
Although I predicted the ‘big event’ (not the plot but a big part of the story) within the first few chapters, I really enjoyed reading this book and was completely hooked within the first chapter.
I did find that Octavia was heavily judgmental of Nathan because of his career, and this did bug me a bit because GIRL you literally don’t even know him yet, but the end does make you realise why and completely makes sense.
I love the pace of the story. It didn’t drag which I find a lot of books can.
Overall, a great easy read. I can’t wait to read the next book ✨ Thank you Finley Clark!
Without giving too much away… I’m from the UK so hockey isn’t really a big thing here, but I love the message that Finley Clark has put out to, I hope, a big audience by raising awareness and encouraging change to toxic sports culture.
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ 5
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Want You" is a fast burn hockey romance chock full of spice. It's Finley Clark's debut into the spice genre and she came out swinging. I loved the instant chemistry between Octavia and Nathan. Even with Octavia's reservations about Nathan being a professional hockey player. Profession aside he was a complete green flag. Our MC's give total golden retriever x black cat vibes. Throughout the story both show a lot of growth in their own ways. Octavia in being able to open herself to Nathan and a relationship with him. And Nathan to opening himself to scrutiny by speaking out about what's happening in the industry. And recognizing it's something he needs to do.
While I was totally here for the spice I also really appreciated the deeper subplot revolving around the toxic culture of hockey. Coming on the heels of recent news coverage of sexual misconduct allegations. Something that needs to be more openly addressed and that I think Clark does a good job of maneuvering.
Another highlight for me was the family bonds. Especially with Nathan and his family. Scottie was such a special character. And I can't wait to get his story in book 2.
As a side note $1 from every purchase of this book will go to Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada. What better reason do you need to purchase a copy?
Thank you so much to the author for my copy in return for an honest review
While I was totally here for the spice I also really appreciated the deeper subplot revolving around the toxic culture of hockey. Coming on the heels of recent news coverage of sexual misconduct allegations. Something that needs to be more openly addressed and that I think Clark does a good job of maneuvering.
Another highlight for me was the family bonds. Especially with Nathan and his family. Scottie was such a special character. And I can't wait to get his story in book 2.
As a side note $1 from every purchase of this book will go to Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada. What better reason do you need to purchase a copy?
Thank you so much to the author for my copy in return for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2026
I was hooked on the 2nd chapter. like those memes that say your up till two am cuz the slow burn. This book was that for me except no slow burn here 😈
What got to me was how she didn't want to try with Nathan, she refused to let it get past sex cuz she had her hopes on the guy that didn't show up (now we know who he is) but Octavia what if he's the one and your ruining this once in a lifetime opportunity for a happy ending.
Then the scandal that happened 🤦🏻♀️ that she felt dirty and un feminist because she was dating a hockey player. But girl not all men are equal. You can't place him in the same league as those fools. Hasn't he shown you with actions and respect how much you mean to him that your willing to let this get between you.
The way she handled the second obstacle was perfect. She made she that he knew how much he meant to her and that there love could overcome it.
The ending was perfect and it gave us a little glimpse of book 2 which is Scottie's story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Favorite quote:
I want to be the man she deserves. The man worthy of her love. Hockey is just a game I am fortunate to be good at. But she’s everything. She’ll be there long after hockey.”
**I was so excited to be selected for this ARC and this book lived up to my expectations. **
What got to me was how she didn't want to try with Nathan, she refused to let it get past sex cuz she had her hopes on the guy that didn't show up (now we know who he is) but Octavia what if he's the one and your ruining this once in a lifetime opportunity for a happy ending.
Then the scandal that happened 🤦🏻♀️ that she felt dirty and un feminist because she was dating a hockey player. But girl not all men are equal. You can't place him in the same league as those fools. Hasn't he shown you with actions and respect how much you mean to him that your willing to let this get between you.
The way she handled the second obstacle was perfect. She made she that he knew how much he meant to her and that there love could overcome it.
The ending was perfect and it gave us a little glimpse of book 2 which is Scottie's story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Favorite quote:
I want to be the man she deserves. The man worthy of her love. Hockey is just a game I am fortunate to be good at. But she’s everything. She’ll be there long after hockey.”
**I was so excited to be selected for this ARC and this book lived up to my expectations. **
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️ — DNF @ 60%
Unfortunately, I had to call this one at 60%.
I struggled with Octavia from pretty early on. Her attitude toward Nathan simply because he was a hockey player felt very judgmental to me. It bothered me, but I was still enjoying enough of the story that I wanted to keep going and see where their relationship went.
But when I reached the 60% mark, I just couldn’t get past my frustration with her anymore. When a scandal involving the hockey players happens, Octavia immediately groups Nathan in with the rest of them without even talking to him first. Considering this is the man she’s supposed to love, I had such a hard time with how quickly she assumed the worst of him instead of trusting him enough to at least have a conversation.
That ended up being my breaking point. I realized I was more frustrated with Octavia than invested in seeing the relationship work out, and I didn’t want to force myself through the remaining 40%.
There were things I enjoyed enough to get me more than halfway through, so I don’t think this was necessarily a bad book—it just reached a point where the FMC’s choices weren’t working for me anymore.
3⭐️ feels right for what I read, but take that rating with a grain of salt since I didn’t finish the book.
Unfortunately, I had to call this one at 60%.
I struggled with Octavia from pretty early on. Her attitude toward Nathan simply because he was a hockey player felt very judgmental to me. It bothered me, but I was still enjoying enough of the story that I wanted to keep going and see where their relationship went.
But when I reached the 60% mark, I just couldn’t get past my frustration with her anymore. When a scandal involving the hockey players happens, Octavia immediately groups Nathan in with the rest of them without even talking to him first. Considering this is the man she’s supposed to love, I had such a hard time with how quickly she assumed the worst of him instead of trusting him enough to at least have a conversation.
That ended up being my breaking point. I realized I was more frustrated with Octavia than invested in seeing the relationship work out, and I didn’t want to force myself through the remaining 40%.
There were things I enjoyed enough to get me more than halfway through, so I don’t think this was necessarily a bad book—it just reached a point where the FMC’s choices weren’t working for me anymore.
3⭐️ feels right for what I read, but take that rating with a grain of salt since I didn’t finish the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have you ever read a book and thought “Oh Hot Damn” and then proceeded to sing “this is my jam”? Well I can confirm that this is exactly what happened when I finished reading “With You” by Finley Clark.
I know that I am known to obsess over sports romances and that the majority of my books have some sort of connection to sport but this book was different. Is it because I know the author? Maybe? Is it because she called out the negatives of the hockey culture? Most likely. Or was it because it hit all the levels of spice and emotion that I want in a book? Also true.
Want You is a fast burn and hooked me from chapter 1 with Octavia and Nathan. You will undoubtedly notice lots of Canadian things in this story (And I have to say I caught more the second time through). But you will also notice that Finley tackles “toxic hockey culture" in a way that you can feel the emotion written as in this case the art of storytelling imitates real life.
I like that our FMC - Octaivia, challenged her beliefs, I also love that she didn’t just leave them behind either when she started to fall for Nathan. I love that Nathan brought a burn it all down mentality not just with her but in other aspects of his life. Did they have a perfect relationship, no, but perfection isn’t real life and this book felt real through the emotions and journey of the characters.
So …. If you like :
Spice (a lot of spice)
Hockey player MMC
Laywer FMC
He falls first (and hard)
Facetime dates
“It’s just physical”
MMC owning their mistakes
Burn it all down mentality
Then “Want You” is waiting for you to go and read!
Now, I need to spotlight the side characters because I cannot wait for the next books. Especially Scotty (IKYKYK)
Thank you Finley for trusting me with an early ARC, and an early finalized e-pub, and countless messages both in awe and in rage, because this book was my life both times I read it.
I know that I am known to obsess over sports romances and that the majority of my books have some sort of connection to sport but this book was different. Is it because I know the author? Maybe? Is it because she called out the negatives of the hockey culture? Most likely. Or was it because it hit all the levels of spice and emotion that I want in a book? Also true.
Want You is a fast burn and hooked me from chapter 1 with Octavia and Nathan. You will undoubtedly notice lots of Canadian things in this story (And I have to say I caught more the second time through). But you will also notice that Finley tackles “toxic hockey culture" in a way that you can feel the emotion written as in this case the art of storytelling imitates real life.
I like that our FMC - Octaivia, challenged her beliefs, I also love that she didn’t just leave them behind either when she started to fall for Nathan. I love that Nathan brought a burn it all down mentality not just with her but in other aspects of his life. Did they have a perfect relationship, no, but perfection isn’t real life and this book felt real through the emotions and journey of the characters.
So …. If you like :
Spice (a lot of spice)
Hockey player MMC
Laywer FMC
He falls first (and hard)
Facetime dates
“It’s just physical”
MMC owning their mistakes
Burn it all down mentality
Then “Want You” is waiting for you to go and read!
Now, I need to spotlight the side characters because I cannot wait for the next books. Especially Scotty (IKYKYK)
Thank you Finley for trusting me with an early ARC, and an early finalized e-pub, and countless messages both in awe and in rage, because this book was my life both times I read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🏒 FMC Lawyer
🏒 MMC Hockey Player
🏒 He Falls First
🏒 Friends With Benefits
🏒 Spicy Romance
What an honour to ARC read this book!
We meet Octavia, our FMC: a lawyer who has just been stood up. Who comes to save the day? None other than Nathan, our MMC and a hockey player. But before anything can really happen between them, he’s called away.
They continue their relationship as friends with benefits, until Nathan realises he wants something more.. which, luckily for us, he gets. Thank God!
The sexual chemistry between these two is absolutely on fire. And although a good percentage of this book is spice - and there is a lot of it: stick with it, because it always brings you back to the story and their relationship.
‘I smell you all the fucking time. Your all my favourite senses’ oh Nathan, you do make a girl swoon!
Certain thing start to click for our MMC, and choices have to be made. Thank God for communication and, best of all, no third-act breakup or any of that rubbish. Honestly, it was perfect!
This was such a spicy, chemistry-filled and genuinely joyful read. I absolutely loved these two, and I can’t wait to see how the other characters develop!
Please give this a read!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🏒 FMC Lawyer
🏒 MMC Hockey Player
🏒 He Falls First
🏒 Friends With Benefits
🏒 Spicy Romance
What an honour to ARC read this book!
We meet Octavia, our FMC: a lawyer who has just been stood up. Who comes to save the day? None other than Nathan, our MMC and a hockey player. But before anything can really happen between them, he’s called away.
They continue their relationship as friends with benefits, until Nathan realises he wants something more.. which, luckily for us, he gets. Thank God!
The sexual chemistry between these two is absolutely on fire. And although a good percentage of this book is spice - and there is a lot of it: stick with it, because it always brings you back to the story and their relationship.
‘I smell you all the fucking time. Your all my favourite senses’ oh Nathan, you do make a girl swoon!
Certain thing start to click for our MMC, and choices have to be made. Thank God for communication and, best of all, no third-act breakup or any of that rubbish. Honestly, it was perfect!
This was such a spicy, chemistry-filled and genuinely joyful read. I absolutely loved these two, and I can’t wait to see how the other characters develop!
Please give this a read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Ugh I LOVE a strong woman, I love someone who knows what she wants and keeps those standards even when he's *good* iykwim...
Octavia may have had it against hockey players, but for very good reason. Everyone knows, whether you're interested in hockey or not, that the hockey community is toxic. A lot happens within the community and a LOT is swept under the rug. And that's just part of what's wrong with it.
Some may judge Octavia for it, most probably will. But I couldn't have loved her more. She stood up for what she believes in and it never once faltered even when she started dating a hockey player. When she told off those tho guys at the firm, I couldn't have loved her more and I LOVE Finley for writing this character.
Nathan is a hockey guy, yes, and he in the beginning he was complicit. He never *did* anything, but he also didn't put a stop to the locker room talk. Yet, when Octavia didn't want to take it deeper or date a hockey player, he respected that.
I will 100% continuing this series, and I will 100% be supporting Finley Clark for writing Octavia and making her the way she is.
Ugh I LOVE a strong woman, I love someone who knows what she wants and keeps those standards even when he's *good* iykwim...
Octavia may have had it against hockey players, but for very good reason. Everyone knows, whether you're interested in hockey or not, that the hockey community is toxic. A lot happens within the community and a LOT is swept under the rug. And that's just part of what's wrong with it.
Some may judge Octavia for it, most probably will. But I couldn't have loved her more. She stood up for what she believes in and it never once faltered even when she started dating a hockey player. When she told off those tho guys at the firm, I couldn't have loved her more and I LOVE Finley for writing this character.
Nathan is a hockey guy, yes, and he in the beginning he was complicit. He never *did* anything, but he also didn't put a stop to the locker room talk. Yet, when Octavia didn't want to take it deeper or date a hockey player, he respected that.
I will 100% continuing this series, and I will 100% be supporting Finley Clark for writing Octavia and making her the way she is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finley Clark - Want You ARC Review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect since this was this author's debut book. That being said, I really enjoyed it!
I especially enjoyed the characters chemistry, the suspense of multiple topics within the book, and that the author tackled a more difficult social subject within hockey culture. Personally, I think the author did a great job in communicating the dark side of Canada hockey and also wrote how most readers would like to see the problem addressed from a public perspective. Very well done!
If I had one small critique, it would be that there is one specific scene that difficult to follow. This did not impact my overall reading experience.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a lot of spice with a little suspense.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read that kept me invested from beginning to end. I found myself wanting to know what happened next.
I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series! I will definitely be following this author and her future publishing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect since this was this author's debut book. That being said, I really enjoyed it!
I especially enjoyed the characters chemistry, the suspense of multiple topics within the book, and that the author tackled a more difficult social subject within hockey culture. Personally, I think the author did a great job in communicating the dark side of Canada hockey and also wrote how most readers would like to see the problem addressed from a public perspective. Very well done!
If I had one small critique, it would be that there is one specific scene that difficult to follow. This did not impact my overall reading experience.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a lot of spice with a little suspense.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read that kept me invested from beginning to end. I found myself wanting to know what happened next.
I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series! I will definitely be following this author and her future publishing.
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