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A Sure Thing
Nicolas Martin had everything a man could want. A best friend turned business partner. A successful startup poised to go unicorn. A rotation of women within arm’s reach—and at arm’s length. Then one reckless decision turned it all into high-grade fertilizer.
A reckless decision is exactly what Rachel Murphy wants to make. Overhearing her fiancé tell another woman he loves her—on their wedding day—will do that. So she runs, ready to go scorched earth … only the gorgeous stranger she wants to burn it down with shuts her out. Hard.
The only thing more humiliating? Him showing up at her hockey program as her new co‑coach. But with her program’s future on the line, this time running isn’t an option.
Working together is the only answer, even as their not-so-friendly competition heats up into something neither of them can ignore. But when unexpected hope and second chances collide, they have to choose what they want more.
And that’s when the real game begins.
A reckless decision is exactly what Rachel Murphy wants to make. Overhearing her fiancé tell another woman he loves her—on their wedding day—will do that. So she runs, ready to go scorched earth … only the gorgeous stranger she wants to burn it down with shuts her out. Hard.
The only thing more humiliating? Him showing up at her hockey program as her new co‑coach. But with her program’s future on the line, this time running isn’t an option.
Working together is the only answer, even as their not-so-friendly competition heats up into something neither of them can ignore. But when unexpected hope and second chances collide, they have to choose what they want more.
And that’s when the real game begins.
- GenresRomance
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 28, 2026
This was such a sweet found family spicy romance read !!! Loved the banter between Nic and Rachel as they “co coached “ children’s hockey. I really felt for Rachel and what she has been through so as things progressed in the story it was really heart warming !! (No spoilers. ) Nic definitely had that chip on his shoulder like he could do anything so I loved Rachel taking him down and then the dynamic changing between them. Just a really good read, healing, spicy and a good time !!!
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April 30, 2026I have beta read this story and you're all in for a treat ❤️
July 23, 2026
Ellory Douglas… what kind of magic are you putting into these books because I LOVE them 😭✨
I went into A Sure Thing with some very obvious bad vibes about Nico (let’s be honest, he did not exactly make the best first impression), but I am SO happy to say that he had me eating my words.
Project Be Better™️ had me absolutely cackling, and watching Nico grow into the person he was always capable of being was one of my favourite parts of this series. I cannot believe the redemption arc this man has had! Villain in book one, toxic hookup in book two, and now potentially my favourite of the Bluebird Sky boyfriends? Ellory Douglas = WITCH ✨
And Rachel is A QUEEN. She is so cool, so badass, and exactly the kind of heroine I love reading about. She knows who she is, challenges Nico in all the best ways, and watching their relationship develop was EVERYTHING.
These two needed each other more than they needed oxygen and I genuinely won’t feel whole until I find a love like theirs 😭 The chemistry, emotional connection, and way they understood each other was just beautiful.
Getting to see Jill and Cass again was everything 🥹 I love this found family so much, and every appearance from previous characters felt like coming home. Nico’s sister Chloe was absolutely hilarious too — she needs her own fan club immediately.
I’m normally not the biggest fan of surprise pregnancy 👀 BUT this was done so well. It added another layer to the story without becoming the entire storyline, and I really appreciated how it was handled.
I have loved this series an unquantifiable amount. Every book has made me fall even harder for these characters, and I cannot wait for whatever Ellory graciously gives us next. (Please, please, PLEASE let it be The Hand-Off in full. I’m begging. 🧎🏽♀️)
TROPES
🐈⬛ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
👰🏼♀️ Runaway Bride
🤰 3rd Act Pregnancy
🚫 No 3rd Act Breakup
🫶 Found Family
🔥 Slow Burn into Inferno
If you love hilarious heroes, badass heroines, found family, and romances that make you want to live inside the book forever… you NEED this series.
I went into A Sure Thing with some very obvious bad vibes about Nico (let’s be honest, he did not exactly make the best first impression), but I am SO happy to say that he had me eating my words.
Project Be Better™️ had me absolutely cackling, and watching Nico grow into the person he was always capable of being was one of my favourite parts of this series. I cannot believe the redemption arc this man has had! Villain in book one, toxic hookup in book two, and now potentially my favourite of the Bluebird Sky boyfriends? Ellory Douglas = WITCH ✨
And Rachel is A QUEEN. She is so cool, so badass, and exactly the kind of heroine I love reading about. She knows who she is, challenges Nico in all the best ways, and watching their relationship develop was EVERYTHING.
These two needed each other more than they needed oxygen and I genuinely won’t feel whole until I find a love like theirs 😭 The chemistry, emotional connection, and way they understood each other was just beautiful.
Getting to see Jill and Cass again was everything 🥹 I love this found family so much, and every appearance from previous characters felt like coming home. Nico’s sister Chloe was absolutely hilarious too — she needs her own fan club immediately.
I’m normally not the biggest fan of surprise pregnancy 👀 BUT this was done so well. It added another layer to the story without becoming the entire storyline, and I really appreciated how it was handled.
I have loved this series an unquantifiable amount. Every book has made me fall even harder for these characters, and I cannot wait for whatever Ellory graciously gives us next. (Please, please, PLEASE let it be The Hand-Off in full. I’m begging. 🧎🏽♀️)
TROPES
🐈⬛ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
👰🏼♀️ Runaway Bride
🤰 3rd Act Pregnancy
🚫 No 3rd Act Breakup
🫶 Found Family
🔥 Slow Burn into Inferno
If you love hilarious heroes, badass heroines, found family, and romances that make you want to live inside the book forever… you NEED this series.
July 21, 2026
So, I have been waiting for this book since I read A Better Proposal last year. When I finished it, I remember actually feeling bad for Nick. While he was clearly the villain of the story, I didn’t think he was irredeemable. He was grumpy but his motivations were good and his actions weren’t… well, evil. Ethically grey at best. I needed to see a redemption arc for this guy who made a terrible mistake and lost everything for it.
A Sure Thing gives us a completely different perspective on Nick (Nico, technically, but he will always be Nick to me). He’s not the grumpy asshole that we met with Jill. Now he’s the guy who is looking after his teenage sister, his hockey team of underprivileged youths, his girlfriend who has never had anyone to look after her but needed someone to look after her… you get the point. And THAT Nick is so easy to love.
This was absolutely my favourite book in the series. Watching Nick break down Rachel’s walls was so satisfying. There’s no third act breakup, which I normally don’t care either way, but in this case I was so happy that Rachel actually stuck by Nick’s side when he revealed his history to her instead of running without hearing him out.
At first I was disappoint there was no “come to Jesus” moment between Rachel and Dylan, but after some deep thought, I think this was for the best. Jill needed the closure from Connor because she is a people pleaser and needed someone to put her first (Alex). Cass needed to stand up for herself and stop letting men walk all over her. But Rachel didn’t need any of that. She was used to looking after herself because she grew up being ignored. She gained nothing from telling Dylan off. What she needed was for someone to choose her and be there for her even when she was telling them to go away. Which she got from Nick. So I’m at peace with not getting the moment I wanted.
A Sure Thing is out today and I HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy. It can be read as a standalone, but reading the others in the series makes this book so much sweeter.
A Sure Thing gives us a completely different perspective on Nick (Nico, technically, but he will always be Nick to me). He’s not the grumpy asshole that we met with Jill. Now he’s the guy who is looking after his teenage sister, his hockey team of underprivileged youths, his girlfriend who has never had anyone to look after her but needed someone to look after her… you get the point. And THAT Nick is so easy to love.
This was absolutely my favourite book in the series. Watching Nick break down Rachel’s walls was so satisfying. There’s no third act breakup, which I normally don’t care either way, but in this case I was so happy that Rachel actually stuck by Nick’s side when he revealed his history to her instead of running without hearing him out.
At first I was disappoint there was no “come to Jesus” moment between Rachel and Dylan, but after some deep thought, I think this was for the best. Jill needed the closure from Connor because she is a people pleaser and needed someone to put her first (Alex). Cass needed to stand up for herself and stop letting men walk all over her. But Rachel didn’t need any of that. She was used to looking after herself because she grew up being ignored. She gained nothing from telling Dylan off. What she needed was for someone to choose her and be there for her even when she was telling them to go away. Which she got from Nick. So I’m at peace with not getting the moment I wanted.
A Sure Thing is out today and I HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy. It can be read as a standalone, but reading the others in the series makes this book so much sweeter.
Review of advance copy
We need 1/2 stars bc this one is a solid 4.5 ⭐️ - the 3rd book in A Bluebird Sky series really brought the whole world together.
We meet Rachel in book one as Jill’s friend from the pet shelter. Rachel finds out her fiancé is a cheater and a serious loser on their wedding day. She decides the best way to get over someone is to get under someone new so she hits the bar. She flirts with Nick / Nico who also is a familiar face - book 1: asshole best friend and shitty business partner, and book 2: Cass (perfection in FMC form) has a long time hook up that is a total f*ckboy… hint, it’s Nick.
Anyway Nick, who is now Nico, is trying to be better after Cass put him in his place. He’s also taking care of his prodigy teen sister while struggling with the guilt of his personal & professional relation fails. Even though he is HOT for Rachel, he turns her down. Flash forward to the hockey rink and the smallest world of worlds, they a co-coaches for the season.
The tension is palatable between them - flirty, tense, competitive. It build and then when it combusts, it’s an absolute firestorm. These two bring out the best in one another. Nico finds the strength to own his past mistakes and truly give his heart to someone. Rachel learns that her wants aren’t selfish and it’s okay to let someone take care of you. A little surprise when they find out just how small and interconnected their world really is but we skip the 3rd act drama bc these characters are evolved and don’t fall into the classic miscommunication trope.
Out of all the books in this series, this one is my favorite. 🤩
We meet Rachel in book one as Jill’s friend from the pet shelter. Rachel finds out her fiancé is a cheater and a serious loser on their wedding day. She decides the best way to get over someone is to get under someone new so she hits the bar. She flirts with Nick / Nico who also is a familiar face - book 1: asshole best friend and shitty business partner, and book 2: Cass (perfection in FMC form) has a long time hook up that is a total f*ckboy… hint, it’s Nick.
Anyway Nick, who is now Nico, is trying to be better after Cass put him in his place. He’s also taking care of his prodigy teen sister while struggling with the guilt of his personal & professional relation fails. Even though he is HOT for Rachel, he turns her down. Flash forward to the hockey rink and the smallest world of worlds, they a co-coaches for the season.
The tension is palatable between them - flirty, tense, competitive. It build and then when it combusts, it’s an absolute firestorm. These two bring out the best in one another. Nico finds the strength to own his past mistakes and truly give his heart to someone. Rachel learns that her wants aren’t selfish and it’s okay to let someone take care of you. A little surprise when they find out just how small and interconnected their world really is but we skip the 3rd act drama bc these characters are evolved and don’t fall into the classic miscommunication trope.
Out of all the books in this series, this one is my favorite. 🤩
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July 6, 2026✨ ARC REVIEW • A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️+
Thank you so much to Ellory Douglas for providing me with an ARC copy of A Sure Thing! 💕
One of my favorite parts of this book was that it takes place in Calgary, Alberta—a city I know and love! It was so much fun recognizing places throughout the story, and I may have even Googled one of the pizza places that was mentioned to see if it was real... IT IS! Safe to say it's now on my list to try 🍕
This was my first Ellory Douglas book, and even though this is Book 3 in the Bluebird Sky series, I never felt lost. I really appreciated the recap at the beginning that introduced the characters and events from the previous books. It made jumping into Nico's story so easy, and now I definitely want to go back and read the first two!
The forced proximity between Nico and our black cat FMC while co-coaching a kids' hockey program led to some of the funniest banter. "Coach Asshole," the constant "shut the f*ck up," and all their back-and-forth had me smiling the whole way through.
What I loved most was that their relationship wasn't instant. Nico had to earn her trust, and watching him consistently show up for both her and the hockey kids made their relationship feel genuine and believable. Add in a lovable supporting cast, an adorable dog, and a surprise near the end that I didn't see coming, and this turned into such a fun read.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny romance that left me smiling and has me excited to read more from Ellory Douglas. If you love witty banter, forced proximity, hockey, and characters who truly grow together, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up!
📚📚Emily📚📚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️+
Thank you so much to Ellory Douglas for providing me with an ARC copy of A Sure Thing! 💕
One of my favorite parts of this book was that it takes place in Calgary, Alberta—a city I know and love! It was so much fun recognizing places throughout the story, and I may have even Googled one of the pizza places that was mentioned to see if it was real... IT IS! Safe to say it's now on my list to try 🍕
This was my first Ellory Douglas book, and even though this is Book 3 in the Bluebird Sky series, I never felt lost. I really appreciated the recap at the beginning that introduced the characters and events from the previous books. It made jumping into Nico's story so easy, and now I definitely want to go back and read the first two!
The forced proximity between Nico and our black cat FMC while co-coaching a kids' hockey program led to some of the funniest banter. "Coach Asshole," the constant "shut the f*ck up," and all their back-and-forth had me smiling the whole way through.
What I loved most was that their relationship wasn't instant. Nico had to earn her trust, and watching him consistently show up for both her and the hockey kids made their relationship feel genuine and believable. Add in a lovable supporting cast, an adorable dog, and a surprise near the end that I didn't see coming, and this turned into such a fun read.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny romance that left me smiling and has me excited to read more from Ellory Douglas. If you love witty banter, forced proximity, hockey, and characters who truly grow together, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up!
📚📚Emily📚📚
October 23, 2026
These books (the A Bluebird Sky series) are AMAZING—I can’t believe they don’t get a lot more hype. Not sure if the series is done or not, but regardless, sign me up for Ellory Douglas as a must-read author.
We met the MMC, Nick, as a rogue-turned-bad-guy in the first book in the series, A Better Proposal. Here, we find him trying to become a better person and caring for his younger sister, when he encounters Rachel Murphy. Nick (now going by Nico) is a sweetheart of an engineer who moonlights as a hockey stud and coach. Rachel is a former Canadian national team hockey player, current hockey stud and coach with a full-time gig at the company run by the people he harmed in book 1 (more on this in a minute).
Nico and Rachel are adorable, their relationship is sweet and hot and everything from the jump. He’s gone from her from the beginning, which is exactly what she needs and deserves. Their quest to save the youth hockey program is admirable. And the way everything unfolds to Nico’s redemption, Rachel’s bad-assery, and their happily ever after, is perfection.
My only problem with this story is her shocking reveal to him where she works. For the plot line this makes sense, but the idea that they’ve been basically living together for weeks and yet he has no idea who her employer is, is pretty hard to believe. It’s also a little hard to imagine that Alex would entrust Nico with temporary control of his company after what happened the last time around. For these reasons, I can’t give it a five.
These flaws are small potatoes, though, in the broader picture of a book, and a series, that I’m sad to be done with. Go read this series!
We met the MMC, Nick, as a rogue-turned-bad-guy in the first book in the series, A Better Proposal. Here, we find him trying to become a better person and caring for his younger sister, when he encounters Rachel Murphy. Nick (now going by Nico) is a sweetheart of an engineer who moonlights as a hockey stud and coach. Rachel is a former Canadian national team hockey player, current hockey stud and coach with a full-time gig at the company run by the people he harmed in book 1 (more on this in a minute).
Nico and Rachel are adorable, their relationship is sweet and hot and everything from the jump. He’s gone from her from the beginning, which is exactly what she needs and deserves. Their quest to save the youth hockey program is admirable. And the way everything unfolds to Nico’s redemption, Rachel’s bad-assery, and their happily ever after, is perfection.
My only problem with this story is her shocking reveal to him where she works. For the plot line this makes sense, but the idea that they’ve been basically living together for weeks and yet he has no idea who her employer is, is pretty hard to believe. It’s also a little hard to imagine that Alex would entrust Nico with temporary control of his company after what happened the last time around. For these reasons, I can’t give it a five.
These flaws are small potatoes, though, in the broader picture of a book, and a series, that I’m sad to be done with. Go read this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2026
✨ 🚨 ARC Book Review: A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas 🚨 ✨
BookTok had me convinced that Nico was the absolute villain of this series. Since I hadn’t read the first two books, it was hard not to believe every single allegation against him. But now that I’ve finally read A Sure Thing? I get it… and I don’t.
Was he probably a menace in the earlier books? Maybe. But give me a redemption arc and I’ll eat it up every single time. It’s one of my favourite tropes, and Nico’s journey made this such an enjoyable read.
There’s something special about indie romances. They feel real. The emotions are messy, the situations believable, and the characters are wonderfully flawed. A Sure Thing doesn’t rely on grand gestures or larger-than-life drama; instead, its simplicity becomes its greatest strength—making it a sure thing indeed. (Pun absolutely intended.)
Ellory Douglas writes beautifully layered characters and ties the storylines together so seamlessly that I never felt lost despite jumping into book three first. The redemption arc is simple, heartfelt, and surprisingly profound.
This is my first book by Ellory, but now I’m incredibly tempted to go back and read the first two books just to witness Nico’s villain era for myself. Although, I should warn you—I already love him, so I doubt anything will change my mind. It’ll just be fun to see that side of him too.
Rating: Worth A Read
Love: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
BookTok had me convinced that Nico was the absolute villain of this series. Since I hadn’t read the first two books, it was hard not to believe every single allegation against him. But now that I’ve finally read A Sure Thing? I get it… and I don’t.
Was he probably a menace in the earlier books? Maybe. But give me a redemption arc and I’ll eat it up every single time. It’s one of my favourite tropes, and Nico’s journey made this such an enjoyable read.
There’s something special about indie romances. They feel real. The emotions are messy, the situations believable, and the characters are wonderfully flawed. A Sure Thing doesn’t rely on grand gestures or larger-than-life drama; instead, its simplicity becomes its greatest strength—making it a sure thing indeed. (Pun absolutely intended.)
Ellory Douglas writes beautifully layered characters and ties the storylines together so seamlessly that I never felt lost despite jumping into book three first. The redemption arc is simple, heartfelt, and surprisingly profound.
This is my first book by Ellory, but now I’m incredibly tempted to go back and read the first two books just to witness Nico’s villain era for myself. Although, I should warn you—I already love him, so I doubt anything will change my mind. It’ll just be fun to see that side of him too.
Rating: Worth A Read
Love: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 22, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book. This is the first one I've read from the author, but I have a weakness for Canadian reads, and knowing this was from a Canadian author, set in Canada had me immediately dying to read it.
From page one, the characters absolutely jumped off the page. I loved (and heavily identified) with how socially awkward Rachel was. As someone who is also a tall, athletic woman, I completely understood her moving through life in her own body and feeling like an outcast in situations that called for small talk outside of her special interests. Hiding that with snarky armour was adorable, and I loved how much Nico riled her up and pulled her out of her shell.
Also Nico, omg. I love that the author gave us small breakdowns of the two prior books, because when I saw that he had blown up is life and lost his best friend in the process, I was SO excited to see his redemption ark. I have such a soft spot for anyone who used to be a hot mess playgirl/playboy that chooses to be better for the person they fall for, and he embodied that perfectly. Also the spice?! dehydrating.
All in all, this was an absolutely fantastic rivals to lovers romance, with great banter and tension, and I can't wait to go back and read the previous books in this series!
*****
I was sent a complimentary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you so much to the author for sending this my way!
From page one, the characters absolutely jumped off the page. I loved (and heavily identified) with how socially awkward Rachel was. As someone who is also a tall, athletic woman, I completely understood her moving through life in her own body and feeling like an outcast in situations that called for small talk outside of her special interests. Hiding that with snarky armour was adorable, and I loved how much Nico riled her up and pulled her out of her shell.
Also Nico, omg. I love that the author gave us small breakdowns of the two prior books, because when I saw that he had blown up is life and lost his best friend in the process, I was SO excited to see his redemption ark. I have such a soft spot for anyone who used to be a hot mess playgirl/playboy that chooses to be better for the person they fall for, and he embodied that perfectly. Also the spice?! dehydrating.
All in all, this was an absolutely fantastic rivals to lovers romance, with great banter and tension, and I can't wait to go back and read the previous books in this series!
*****
I was sent a complimentary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you so much to the author for sending this my way!
July 15, 2026
When the MMC makes you want to say “I can change him” and then he changes himself.
This book made me feel *all* the things for Nico, and many aspects of Rachel made me feel so seen - she's stubborn, minimizes her own needs, and has “I can do it myself” attitude - check!
I have to admit that I hadn't (yet) read the other two books in the Bluebird Sky series, so my introduction to Nick/Nico was at the beginning of the book where the author, very helpfully, gave a little briefing on what the reader needed to know. It gave a very “so screw this guy Nick, what an asshole” vibe, and then I went to the next page and lo and behold, this book is about Nick! Oh boy, does he ever redeem himself though (not a spoiler - it's a romance, we know he's going to change!). In my opinion, there’s nothing sexier than a guy (or anyone) who takes constructive criticism, makes a change, and makes himself better. No “I'll change him” needed!
The care and support that Nick/Nico showed to Rachel, behind all of the excellent banter, made me melt and I absolutely adored it. I loved that even as we saw both Nico and Rachel push each other to grow as people, the banter continued and stuck around to the end.
I’ll for sure be going back to read the first few books in this series!
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book made me feel *all* the things for Nico, and many aspects of Rachel made me feel so seen - she's stubborn, minimizes her own needs, and has “I can do it myself” attitude - check!
I have to admit that I hadn't (yet) read the other two books in the Bluebird Sky series, so my introduction to Nick/Nico was at the beginning of the book where the author, very helpfully, gave a little briefing on what the reader needed to know. It gave a very “so screw this guy Nick, what an asshole” vibe, and then I went to the next page and lo and behold, this book is about Nick! Oh boy, does he ever redeem himself though (not a spoiler - it's a romance, we know he's going to change!). In my opinion, there’s nothing sexier than a guy (or anyone) who takes constructive criticism, makes a change, and makes himself better. No “I'll change him” needed!
The care and support that Nick/Nico showed to Rachel, behind all of the excellent banter, made me melt and I absolutely adored it. I loved that even as we saw both Nico and Rachel push each other to grow as people, the banter continued and stuck around to the end.
I’ll for sure be going back to read the first few books in this series!
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2026
Review of Advance Copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was so excited to be chosen as an early reader for A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas, and BOY, DID SHE DELIVER!!!
We all love a good rivals-to-lovers story, and that's exactly what you'll get when you crack open this book.
Black cat FMC
Golden retriever MMC
Banter that bites
Chemistry that will not quit
P.s. - even some slutty little glasses.... 🤭
Rachel's world comes crashing down just before what should have been one of the happiest moments of her life. Ready to make one reckless decision and leave it all behind, she decides the best way to get over a man is... to get under one. Except the gorgeous stranger she picks completely shuts her down. MAN, talk about a bruised ego.
Then fate decides to have a little fun and drops Nico right back into her life as her new co-coach for the hockey program. Cue. The. Tension.
Watching Rachel and Nico go from constantly challenging each other to slowly letting those walls crumble was everything. It had me: Laughing, Screaming, CRYING, Kicking My Feet - I needed MORE.
Ellory Douglas created two characters who are messy, stubborn, funny, and impossible not to root for. This book reminded me that sometimes the best love stories start when everything else falls apart.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was so excited to be chosen as an early reader for A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas, and BOY, DID SHE DELIVER!!!
We all love a good rivals-to-lovers story, and that's exactly what you'll get when you crack open this book.
Black cat FMC
Golden retriever MMC
Banter that bites
Chemistry that will not quit
P.s. - even some slutty little glasses.... 🤭
Rachel's world comes crashing down just before what should have been one of the happiest moments of her life. Ready to make one reckless decision and leave it all behind, she decides the best way to get over a man is... to get under one. Except the gorgeous stranger she picks completely shuts her down. MAN, talk about a bruised ego.
Then fate decides to have a little fun and drops Nico right back into her life as her new co-coach for the hockey program. Cue. The. Tension.
Watching Rachel and Nico go from constantly challenging each other to slowly letting those walls crumble was everything. It had me: Laughing, Screaming, CRYING, Kicking My Feet - I needed MORE.
Ellory Douglas created two characters who are messy, stubborn, funny, and impossible not to root for. This book reminded me that sometimes the best love stories start when everything else falls apart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2026
📕ARC REVIEW📕
What a book!!!! I have been wanting Nick’s book since I met him in book 1, and he does not disappoint.
We know that Nick did a shady thing which peed off his best friend, and was the result of losing his best friend. We also know he is Cass’ (MFC Book 2) hook up partner who treats are less than an ideal….BUT he honestly does redeem himself in this book.
Nick had his reasons for doing what he did in book 1 (not going to spoil it for you, so go ahead and start with Book 1) and the love and responsibility he had for his sister makes you 🥺🥺
What I literally couldn’t get over is that he is a hockey coach. I mean, my ovaries haven’t stopped rattling.
Rachel meets Nick in a bar where she prepositions him for some bedroom fun (give her a break, her fiance is a pig) but he turns her down (don’t worry, he makes up for it)….lo and behold, Nick ends up being assistant coach to Rachel and well, she hates that…and she massively dislikes him. Until she doesn’t.
I adored Rachel. She made me chuckle and her dislike towards Nick only fuelled that foreplay 🔥😮💨
They were honestly beautiful together. I couldn’t get enough.
I honestly recommend you start with Book 1: ‘A Better Proposal’ but you can read this is as a standalone.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
What a book!!!! I have been wanting Nick’s book since I met him in book 1, and he does not disappoint.
We know that Nick did a shady thing which peed off his best friend, and was the result of losing his best friend. We also know he is Cass’ (MFC Book 2) hook up partner who treats are less than an ideal….BUT he honestly does redeem himself in this book.
Nick had his reasons for doing what he did in book 1 (not going to spoil it for you, so go ahead and start with Book 1) and the love and responsibility he had for his sister makes you 🥺🥺
What I literally couldn’t get over is that he is a hockey coach. I mean, my ovaries haven’t stopped rattling.
Rachel meets Nick in a bar where she prepositions him for some bedroom fun (give her a break, her fiance is a pig) but he turns her down (don’t worry, he makes up for it)….lo and behold, Nick ends up being assistant coach to Rachel and well, she hates that…and she massively dislikes him. Until she doesn’t.
I adored Rachel. She made me chuckle and her dislike towards Nick only fuelled that foreplay 🔥😮💨
They were honestly beautiful together. I couldn’t get enough.
I honestly recommend you start with Book 1: ‘A Better Proposal’ but you can read this is as a standalone.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
July 23, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy Review
I enjoyed reading this book. It was an easy, light, spicy read.
This book is about two people who end up running a non-profit hockey program together for kids who can't afford to play. While they are running this program together, the FMC (Rachel) hates that the MMC (Nico) is working with her. As they continue to run this program together, they find out that they need to find funding for their program, or these kids will lose this opportunity, which in turn causes them to have to work together despite Rachel's hate for Nico.
This book was a cute enemies-to-lovers book, and I enjoyed it. Rachel is definitely sassy, and Nico likes it and learns to know when she means it and when she is avoiding how she really feels, which of course he enjoys.
Nico was for sure my favourite character in this book. He was kind of a playboy in the other books in this series, but you see him really try in this book. You see him slowly fall for Rachel and become fully committed to her, leave his playboy ways behind him to be with her, and prove to the people around him that he has changed for the better. This book is for sure worth the read!
I enjoyed reading this book. It was an easy, light, spicy read.
This book is about two people who end up running a non-profit hockey program together for kids who can't afford to play. While they are running this program together, the FMC (Rachel) hates that the MMC (Nico) is working with her. As they continue to run this program together, they find out that they need to find funding for their program, or these kids will lose this opportunity, which in turn causes them to have to work together despite Rachel's hate for Nico.
This book was a cute enemies-to-lovers book, and I enjoyed it. Rachel is definitely sassy, and Nico likes it and learns to know when she means it and when she is avoiding how she really feels, which of course he enjoys.
Nico was for sure my favourite character in this book. He was kind of a playboy in the other books in this series, but you see him really try in this book. You see him slowly fall for Rachel and become fully committed to her, leave his playboy ways behind him to be with her, and prove to the people around him that he has changed for the better. This book is for sure worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hockey coach romance
Third in series, but can be read alone
I just finished A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas and I can’t stop thinking about it!
This isn’t a typical sports romance- the main characters are youth hockey coaches, and they both have different ideas about what it takes to save the program. All of this is also happening while dealing with their own personal identity crisis issues.
Ellory Douglas did a phenomenal job of weaving storytelling, character growth, and consistent pacing together. She has a knack for finding the right combo of words to keep you saying “just one more chapter.”
There is plentiful, explicit spice, so I gave the book a 4 🌶️ rating based on the Romance.io scale.
This is book three in a series, but this book had a recap at the beginning so I was not lost at all. I think even without the recap, it was really easy to fall into the world and understand what was going on. I will definitely be checking out the first two books asap though!
Thank you so much for Ellory for letting me read an arc of A Sure Thing. All thoughts are my own.
Hockey coach romance
Third in series, but can be read alone
I just finished A Sure Thing by Ellory Douglas and I can’t stop thinking about it!
This isn’t a typical sports romance- the main characters are youth hockey coaches, and they both have different ideas about what it takes to save the program. All of this is also happening while dealing with their own personal identity crisis issues.
Ellory Douglas did a phenomenal job of weaving storytelling, character growth, and consistent pacing together. She has a knack for finding the right combo of words to keep you saying “just one more chapter.”
There is plentiful, explicit spice, so I gave the book a 4 🌶️ rating based on the Romance.io scale.
This is book three in a series, but this book had a recap at the beginning so I was not lost at all. I think even without the recap, it was really easy to fall into the world and understand what was going on. I will definitely be checking out the first two books asap though!
Thank you so much for Ellory for letting me read an arc of A Sure Thing. All thoughts are my own.
July 27, 2026
Going into this, I was very skeptical that Ellory could make me love Nick. He was honestly pretty deplorable in the previous books… but consider me converted! I bow down to my King, Nico.
This was ridiculously cute! From the hilarious “my king” and “my queen” banter to one of the most fun meet cutes (an attempted one night stand gone horribly wrong) I’ve read in a while, I couldn’t stop smiling.
Nick’s redemption arc was so well done. Getting to understand why he was the way he was made it impossible not to root for him. (His former playboy ways aside! Cass is still my number 1 girl and I would ride at dawn for her). I loved learning more about him, and seeing his relationship with his younger sister was just … swoon worthy. She was also a hoot and a half.
I especially loved seeing Rachel and Nick coach underprivileged kids together. Their hockey banter, constant bickering, and “friendly” competitions were so much fun. I absolutely loved Ellory’s twist on the classic wearing the jersey trope.
This was ridiculously cute! From the hilarious “my king” and “my queen” banter to one of the most fun meet cutes (an attempted one night stand gone horribly wrong) I’ve read in a while, I couldn’t stop smiling.
Nick’s redemption arc was so well done. Getting to understand why he was the way he was made it impossible not to root for him. (His former playboy ways aside! Cass is still my number 1 girl and I would ride at dawn for her). I loved learning more about him, and seeing his relationship with his younger sister was just … swoon worthy. She was also a hoot and a half.
I especially loved seeing Rachel and Nick coach underprivileged kids together. Their hockey banter, constant bickering, and “friendly” competitions were so much fun. I absolutely loved Ellory’s twist on the classic wearing the jersey trope.
July 10, 2026
This is the 3rd book in the Bluebird Sky series! In this one we meet Rachel and Nick.
Rachel got herself out of a bad engagement on the day of her wedding. She moves back in with her parents and starts rebuilding her life. I love Rachel, she is a head strong and unapologetic woman. While coaching a hockey camp she meets Nick/ Nico.
Nico made a major mistake in his past and he is just trying to move on and work hard. He is a stubborn MMC who starts coaching the same hockey team as Rachel.
There is so much tension between the two. Nico always shows up for Rachel even in the rough times. I loved how these two worked hard to stay together and be there for each other and the hockey kids. The side characters which you meet in the other books in the series is perfect in this book. I love how the girls are there for each other.
If you enjoy sports romance that is set in Calgary AB then this one is for you! There is tension,spice,force proximity and two main characters who grow together! Humour and so much love is also in this sweet romance!
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for this ARC!
Rachel got herself out of a bad engagement on the day of her wedding. She moves back in with her parents and starts rebuilding her life. I love Rachel, she is a head strong and unapologetic woman. While coaching a hockey camp she meets Nick/ Nico.
Nico made a major mistake in his past and he is just trying to move on and work hard. He is a stubborn MMC who starts coaching the same hockey team as Rachel.
There is so much tension between the two. Nico always shows up for Rachel even in the rough times. I loved how these two worked hard to stay together and be there for each other and the hockey kids. The side characters which you meet in the other books in the series is perfect in this book. I love how the girls are there for each other.
If you enjoy sports romance that is set in Calgary AB then this one is for you! There is tension,spice,force proximity and two main characters who grow together! Humour and so much love is also in this sweet romance!
Thank you to Ellory Douglas for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ok hold up! Wait just a minute.
NICO!!!!! I AM SHOOK!
I did not think this man could be saved but Ellory really said "oh just you watch". I absolutely adored the BANTER between Rachel and Nico. It was so back and forth which was a hilariously good time.
I also really enjoyed knowing more than the characters did and watching how it all unfolded. Seeing a return of so many beloved characters and getting glimpses of how their lives have continued on was so special.
Rachel's character resonated with me so much that I forgot she is a fictional character!! 😅 I loved seeing her navigate specific situations and really force herself out of her own shell. If she can do it, maybe I can too right?
I feel completely satisfied with how everything wrapped up so nicely. This truly has been such a fun ride!
Thank you Ellory for the advanced copy 💕 I am so blessed to know you and I cannot wait to add a copy of A Sure Thing to my trophy shelf!
NICO!!!!! I AM SHOOK!
I did not think this man could be saved but Ellory really said "oh just you watch". I absolutely adored the BANTER between Rachel and Nico. It was so back and forth which was a hilariously good time.
I also really enjoyed knowing more than the characters did and watching how it all unfolded. Seeing a return of so many beloved characters and getting glimpses of how their lives have continued on was so special.
Rachel's character resonated with me so much that I forgot she is a fictional character!! 😅 I loved seeing her navigate specific situations and really force herself out of her own shell. If she can do it, maybe I can too right?
I feel completely satisfied with how everything wrapped up so nicely. This truly has been such a fun ride!
Thank you Ellory for the advanced copy 💕 I am so blessed to know you and I cannot wait to add a copy of A Sure Thing to my trophy shelf!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely devoured every moment of this book! Even though I hadn't read book 1 or 2 of the series, I had absolutely no issues whatsoever diving right in. Every character is masterfully developed and described with such effortless depth that they not only feel real, but I feel like I know them. Shoot, I feel like Rachel and I would be two peas. I absolutely love a black cat FMC, and how she'll take any chance to compete with the boys *swoon*.
Nico, our MMC, is h-o-t, HOT. Not only physically (Ellory Douglas knows how to write a hot man in the most descriptive, intoxicating way possible), but with his green flag approach of living for Rachel kicking his ass in friendly competition.
The banter is top freaking tier and the spice??? SO GOOD. I'm sad it's over and I can't wait to read more from Ellory Douglas!! Thank you so much for the ARC. I'm a diehard fan and feel so lucky to have found your writing Ellory!
Nico, our MMC, is h-o-t, HOT. Not only physically (Ellory Douglas knows how to write a hot man in the most descriptive, intoxicating way possible), but with his green flag approach of living for Rachel kicking his ass in friendly competition.
The banter is top freaking tier and the spice??? SO GOOD. I'm sad it's over and I can't wait to read more from Ellory Douglas!! Thank you so much for the ARC. I'm a diehard fan and feel so lucky to have found your writing Ellory!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got an ARC and was so excited to read it! I really enjoyed book 1 and 2 of the series and loved book 2.5 - A Better Engagement. A Sure Thing hit it out of the park and is the author's best novel to date. This novel really puts the author in the same category as Carley Fortune and Elsie Silver and gave me all the feels. I was thoroughly enjoying the novel, but once I got about halfway through, I couldn't put it down. This is on my list of favourite reads this year.
The dual POVs were great, and both main characters were both on their own journey throughout the book and working on themselves the best they knew how. The way Nico was so down bad for Rachel was so good! It was the redemption arc for Nico that I didn't know I wanted until I read it. The way Rachel was unapologetic and working to move forward was relatable. An impenitent queen!
The dual POVs were great, and both main characters were both on their own journey throughout the book and working on themselves the best they knew how. The way Nico was so down bad for Rachel was so good! It was the redemption arc for Nico that I didn't know I wanted until I read it. The way Rachel was unapologetic and working to move forward was relatable. An impenitent queen!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Super cute book and a really quick and smooth read!
I haven’t read the first two books in the standalone series but she gave a nice little recap of important details to help you get by! I did find it a bit hard to get into at first since a lot of the details from the first two books seemed to shape the first couple of chapters. These details never really got deep in this one, I assume because of how involved they were in book 1.
I really loved the characters though! I fell for them immediately and found it really hard to put the book down so I could go to work.
Definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a cute cozy vibes, low stakes romance. Bonus points that it’s set in Calgary, AB.
I haven’t read the first two books in the standalone series but she gave a nice little recap of important details to help you get by! I did find it a bit hard to get into at first since a lot of the details from the first two books seemed to shape the first couple of chapters. These details never really got deep in this one, I assume because of how involved they were in book 1.
I really loved the characters though! I fell for them immediately and found it really hard to put the book down so I could go to work.
Definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a cute cozy vibes, low stakes romance. Bonus points that it’s set in Calgary, AB.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh Nico… thank goodness Cass set him straight.
This adversaries to lovers was another slow burn, but the banter between these two was sooo perfect.
I loved Nico’s sister Chloe and watching her connect with Rachel in her quest to bug Nico.
I’m not sure if this was intended to cap off the trilogy (I think it is), but I really appreciated the humility and healing that occurred through the Calgary friend group.
I have a soft spot for jerseys and Ellory didn’t disappoint there.
A huge thank you to Ellory for the advanced copy of this couple. I loved the Calgary mentions, the blood/found family. I’m excited to see what couple you share with us next 💜💜
This adversaries to lovers was another slow burn, but the banter between these two was sooo perfect.
I loved Nico’s sister Chloe and watching her connect with Rachel in her quest to bug Nico.
I’m not sure if this was intended to cap off the trilogy (I think it is), but I really appreciated the humility and healing that occurred through the Calgary friend group.
I have a soft spot for jerseys and Ellory didn’t disappoint there.
A huge thank you to Ellory for the advanced copy of this couple. I loved the Calgary mentions, the blood/found family. I’m excited to see what couple you share with us next 💜💜
July 24, 2026
Looking for a slow burn, feel-good romance? Then A Sure Thing is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
The characters are funny, relatable, and feel like real people, which made it so easy to get invested in their story. The spice is on the lighter side, but it didn't need more. The chemistry and emotional connection carried the book perfectly.
I also jumped into this series without reading the first two books and had no trouble following the story or getting to know the returning characters.
And if you're from Calgary... keep an eye out for all the local Easter eggs! There's also one scene that will have you looking at the Calgary Stampede very differently afterwards.
The characters are funny, relatable, and feel like real people, which made it so easy to get invested in their story. The spice is on the lighter side, but it didn't need more. The chemistry and emotional connection carried the book perfectly.
I also jumped into this series without reading the first two books and had no trouble following the story or getting to know the returning characters.
And if you're from Calgary... keep an eye out for all the local Easter eggs! There's also one scene that will have you looking at the Calgary Stampede very differently afterwards.
July 29, 2026
I can't believe this series is over...
Ellory's writing is truly amazing. I felt every emotion - especially if you've started the series and know that Nico is a... Shall we say.. Problem . This book, his redemption, his ability to allow himself to find happiness and make amends for the mistakes he made in the past... It hits different. We've al made choices we would go back and change (okay maybe just me?) and to get to see this HEA is "chef's kiss*
Infinity stars. Must read series. You will not be disappointed!!
Ellory's writing is truly amazing. I felt every emotion - especially if you've started the series and know that Nico is a... Shall we say.. Problem . This book, his redemption, his ability to allow himself to find happiness and make amends for the mistakes he made in the past... It hits different. We've al made choices we would go back and change (okay maybe just me?) and to get to see this HEA is "chef's kiss*
Infinity stars. Must read series. You will not be disappointed!!
July 12, 2026
Omg this book was so cute! I’m so glad Nico got a redemption arc! So I just want to say I still have to read the second book I had literally just started it when I got the ARC copy of A Sure Thing (kind of important I read the arc before it’s release date). Anyways I had read the first book and I’m not going to lie I wasn’t sure how I felt about Nico at the start of the book because the last time I left him he was still being an Asshat!
Anyways back to the actual review. This book is very well written and I love the push pull aspect of it. I love the slow burn of it all but yet there is longing and lust happening. I really enjoyed the characters chemistry and there were points I really related to Racheal. The reconnection between Nico and Jill and Alex was fantastic it gave me Sex in the City the movie vibes (if you know you know)! The ending was super super cute and for once I didn’t want to gage with the surprise pregnancy trope! Totally would read again and will recommend!
Also honourable mention for Nico’s dirty mouth!
Anyways back to the actual review. This book is very well written and I love the push pull aspect of it. I love the slow burn of it all but yet there is longing and lust happening. I really enjoyed the characters chemistry and there were points I really related to Racheal. The reconnection between Nico and Jill and Alex was fantastic it gave me Sex in the City the movie vibes (if you know you know)! The ending was super super cute and for once I didn’t want to gage with the surprise pregnancy trope! Totally would read again and will recommend!
Also honourable mention for Nico’s dirty mouth!
July 21, 2026
I am absolutely star struck over Nico and Rachel’s love story!!! Two hockey players falling in love (and he has a BA in engineering how sexy). The scene where he took Rachel to watch the falling stars was adorable and in the epilogue where he showed her the northern lights (from their backyard!!). This book left me in awe and feeling hopeful for romance. Thank you Ellory Douglas for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
ARC copy 💜📚
If you’re reading this series, definitely don’t skip the novella! It adds so much to the overall story, even though each book can still be read as a standalone💗
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Nick (now Nico) going into this one 😂, but Ellory gave him the redemption arc he deserved, and by the end, I was completely rooting for him.
Rachel and Nico’s banter was one of my favourite parts. The hockey camp and co-coaching setup made the forced proximity feel so natural, and I loved watching their relationship grow 🏒💕
I also loved seeing the connections between Rachel’s friends and Nico’s past come full circle. It made the story feel even more connected, and Chloe was such a fun side character.
The chemistry between Rachel and Nico was so good, and the spice definitely delivered without taking away from the romance 🌶️💗
I did find myself wishing for just a little more tension or a bigger conflict, but overall this was such a fun hockey romance, and Nico’s redemption arc made this such an enjoyable read.
📚 If you like:
🏒 Hockey romance
🖤 Black cat × golden retriever
❤️ Rivals to lovers
✨ A reformed MMC you’ll end up rooting for
🤰 Surprise pregnancy
🚫 No third-act breakup
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
ARC copy 💜📚
If you’re reading this series, definitely don’t skip the novella! It adds so much to the overall story, even though each book can still be read as a standalone💗
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Nick (now Nico) going into this one 😂, but Ellory gave him the redemption arc he deserved, and by the end, I was completely rooting for him.
Rachel and Nico’s banter was one of my favourite parts. The hockey camp and co-coaching setup made the forced proximity feel so natural, and I loved watching their relationship grow 🏒💕
I also loved seeing the connections between Rachel’s friends and Nico’s past come full circle. It made the story feel even more connected, and Chloe was such a fun side character.
The chemistry between Rachel and Nico was so good, and the spice definitely delivered without taking away from the romance 🌶️💗
I did find myself wishing for just a little more tension or a bigger conflict, but overall this was such a fun hockey romance, and Nico’s redemption arc made this such an enjoyable read.
📚 If you like:
🏒 Hockey romance
🖤 Black cat × golden retriever
❤️ Rivals to lovers
✨ A reformed MMC you’ll end up rooting for
🤰 Surprise pregnancy
🚫 No third-act breakup
July 21, 2026
I really wanted to hate Nick
I received an ARC copy of the book and read the entire series instead. It can be read as a stand alone but you won’t regret reading the other two books first - I’ll definitely be picking up her new releases going forward!
I received an ARC copy of the book and read the entire series instead. It can be read as a stand alone but you won’t regret reading the other two books first - I’ll definitely be picking up her new releases going forward!
October 1, 2026
It seems like a great book. I just couldn’t get over the fact that it was supposed to be from each characters pov. But it was typed in first person and third person i was very confused. Like chapters were labeled whos pov it was but were talking in third person.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Being a street team member I got to read this prior to release. Fans of A Bluebird Sky series will truly enjoy this story - especially if you like sexy male Hockey Players.
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