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The Rules of the Rink #2
Code Violation
I’m in love with my brother’s ex-girlfriend.
After years of acting like Vesper Stone isn’t the girl of my dreams, I owe it to myself to be honest, even if the confession can only ever remain a secret.
There are so many reasons why I should forget about her. As the captain of the Seattle Rogues, I shouldn’t betray my only sibling, and I ought to honor the promise I made to our late mom to stand by him.
But my brother isn’t a good man, and I can’t take my eyes off the stunning bartender with sleek black hair and a smile that falters whenever she gets a text from the guy who never deserved her.
Voicing my feelings is a terrible idea. My brother isn’t only a bad person, but he’s dangerous, too, and my top priority is protecting the one girl I can never have.
But I didn’t make it as a pro hockey player without going after what I wanted, and regardless of who she is to my family, I can’t stop showing up at her apartment.
Maybe we can just be friends. I’d rather have that than lose her altogether. My brother doesn’t need to know we hang out and eat pizza while watching a movie.
But friends don’t hold their breath whenever they catch each other’s gaze, and they definitely don’t do what we did the other night …
I should walk away.
For her.
For us.
For the sake of keeping the peace.
So, why am I standing outside Vesper’s door right now, ready to lay my heart on the line? And why am I about to speak the words I vowed to take to my grave?
Because now that I’ve had her in my bed, I’ll go to war to keep her—and our baby—forever.
After years of acting like Vesper Stone isn’t the girl of my dreams, I owe it to myself to be honest, even if the confession can only ever remain a secret.
There are so many reasons why I should forget about her. As the captain of the Seattle Rogues, I shouldn’t betray my only sibling, and I ought to honor the promise I made to our late mom to stand by him.
But my brother isn’t a good man, and I can’t take my eyes off the stunning bartender with sleek black hair and a smile that falters whenever she gets a text from the guy who never deserved her.
Voicing my feelings is a terrible idea. My brother isn’t only a bad person, but he’s dangerous, too, and my top priority is protecting the one girl I can never have.
But I didn’t make it as a pro hockey player without going after what I wanted, and regardless of who she is to my family, I can’t stop showing up at her apartment.
Maybe we can just be friends. I’d rather have that than lose her altogether. My brother doesn’t need to know we hang out and eat pizza while watching a movie.
But friends don’t hold their breath whenever they catch each other’s gaze, and they definitely don’t do what we did the other night …
I should walk away.
For her.
For us.
For the sake of keeping the peace.
So, why am I standing outside Vesper’s door right now, ready to lay my heart on the line? And why am I about to speak the words I vowed to take to my grave?
Because now that I’ve had her in my bed, I’ll go to war to keep her—and our baby—forever.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2026
About the author
Ruth Stilling
18 books1,038 followersRuth Stilling is a lover of all things escapism and can be mostly found with her head buried in a spicy book, writing her latest romance novel or out in the open air and nature, away from the bustle of life. As clumsy as she is crazy, Ruth enjoys creating relatable, loveable, swoon-worthy and strong willed main characters who find their happy ending. That said, she prides herself on taking her readers on emotional rollercoasters and always recommends reading her books with tissues on hand to wipe away the tears of joy, laughter and sometimes heartache.
Ruth lives in Derbyshire, England with her own personal book boyfriend (lucky girl), her six year old son and her two feisty chihuahuas.
Keep up to date with Ruth's latest content and exciting projects by following her on social media: @authorruthstilling
Ruth lives in Derbyshire, England with her own personal book boyfriend (lucky girl), her six year old son and her two feisty chihuahuas.
Keep up to date with Ruth's latest content and exciting projects by following her on social media: @authorruthstilling
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
You know what, sometimes you do pick the wrong brother. And IF you get the opportunity and the right brother comes along who says and I quote: “I want to show you why you chose the wrong brother.” Then you seize the opportunity and take the bull by the horns and you make him beg for it just like our queen Vesper. 🫠
Ok in all seriousness, I absolutely smashed this book! Straight devoured it. If you love the accidental pregnancy trope with the messiness of ex boyfriend's brother with a sprinkle of suspense then you are going to absolutely love this one! Now I will say, I loved the different spin that Ruth did with the accidental pregnancy trope. I don't want to give too much away with it but it's just slightly different and a refreshing take on the trope.
Another fun little twist to this one? The elements of suspense. As we know this is a brother's ex girlfriend trope which comes with some messiness but Silas's bother doesn't know how to let them be happy if you know what I mean. And there was always this when will he show back up element to the plot which I loved. It kept me on my toes.
As for Silas, this man is a walking talking green flag golden retriever. He isn't just a 10 but he's an 11 because this man exhibits every single love language imaginable. This man has yearned for Vesper for YEARS and he was going to do everything in his power to show her exactly why he is the better brother and give her the love that she deserves. I swooned so much in this one!
Ruth, this was another amazing book! I loved everything about it and as always, I love that you give me a hockey romance that is slightly different than the rest! I hope y'all are ready for the man that is Silas Stanton! Be prepared to swoon your pants off!
You should read this book if you like:
- Hockey Romance
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Ex Boyfriend's Brother
- Down Bad MMC
- Green Flag Golden Retriever
- He Falls First and HARD
- He's Been Yearning for YEARS!
- Lactation K!nk
Ok in all seriousness, I absolutely smashed this book! Straight devoured it. If you love the accidental pregnancy trope with the messiness of ex boyfriend's brother with a sprinkle of suspense then you are going to absolutely love this one! Now I will say, I loved the different spin that Ruth did with the accidental pregnancy trope. I don't want to give too much away with it but it's just slightly different and a refreshing take on the trope.
Another fun little twist to this one? The elements of suspense. As we know this is a brother's ex girlfriend trope which comes with some messiness but Silas's bother doesn't know how to let them be happy if you know what I mean. And there was always this when will he show back up element to the plot which I loved. It kept me on my toes.
As for Silas, this man is a walking talking green flag golden retriever. He isn't just a 10 but he's an 11 because this man exhibits every single love language imaginable. This man has yearned for Vesper for YEARS and he was going to do everything in his power to show her exactly why he is the better brother and give her the love that she deserves. I swooned so much in this one!
Ruth, this was another amazing book! I loved everything about it and as always, I love that you give me a hockey romance that is slightly different than the rest! I hope y'all are ready for the man that is Silas Stanton! Be prepared to swoon your pants off!
You should read this book if you like:
- Hockey Romance
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Ex Boyfriend's Brother
- Down Bad MMC
- Green Flag Golden Retriever
- He Falls First and HARD
- He's Been Yearning for YEARS!
- Lactation K!nk
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎧 DNF at 61% (5 hours into the audiobook)
First of all, let me be completely honest about my part in this one-star rating. I go out of my way not to check Goodreads when picking what to request on NetGalley so I won't be influenced by other people's opinions in any way or form. That's how I completely missed this being a surprise pregnancy. There is no synopsis on NG, but I saw hockey, a cute cover, romance, and I was immediately interested. I will never say no to good hockey romance.
Let's get the obvious thing out of the way. I would not have picked this up if I knew it was a surprise pregnancy, and I don't like this trope in general. There are so many things that could go south with it. It is not done in a way most people would be used to, and I found it odd. The pregnancy is kind of planned, but it's also completely out of nowhere. They sleep together once, without a condom, and I already smelled the twist in the air. Then they go for the morning-after pill, so I started to ease up, only for the MMC to tell the FMC not to take it? So she doesn't? And she's like, let's have this baby as friends? So odd. Not even mentioning that the MMC really does not go along with this request and starts "I love you"ing her every chance possible.
My breaking point was when she takes him to her ob-gyn appointment and he's like, "This baby will be born in the off-season, you could not be more perfect." Like, if the FMC somehow planned this? For someone googling up all of the random pregnancy facts, is the concept of time the one thing slipping between his fingers?
I would personally consider most of this a spoiler, since all of this took place by 60%, but it's all in the synopsis on Goodreads, so the writer/publisher does let you know.
I found the ex to be a cartoonish depiction of a toxic boyfriend, but with the emotional impact missing. The FMC is scared of him, but I never felt like I should really be worried for her. Most of the stuff he did is only mentioned in passing, and his biggest crime is basically not making her cum and parking where he shouldn't. The MMC is made to be his complete opposite, except he does actually have a violent past. Of course he cares for his brother only because it was his dying mother's last wish. Gallant, but at the same time, I think giving him money for booze would not qualify as "taking care of him," and I'm somehow sure his mum would agree.
The hockey theme is more of a side theme. This is definitely more of an ex's brother and toxic ex story with some planned but really not smart pregnancy. If this happened in real life, I would consider both parties insane. She gets out of an abusive relationship just to get a baby with the first guy who is somehow nice to her after sleeping together once. It's like a setup for becoming Wife-Swap material.
I've listened to the audiobook, and it was done well enough to help me listen for so long. The narrators were well chosen, but the female narrator spoke extremely slowly. She almost sounded like her slow speaking was being further slowed down. I did not have this issue with the male narrator. Usually, I don't speed audiobooks up too much, but anything under 1.5x was very annoying to listen to.
PS: Other reviews mention lactation kink, and boy, is it at the top of my ick list. I am actually glad I DNF'd before I had to face it myself.
ALC received from NetGalley.
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First of all, let me be completely honest about my part in this one-star rating. I go out of my way not to check Goodreads when picking what to request on NetGalley so I won't be influenced by other people's opinions in any way or form. That's how I completely missed this being a surprise pregnancy. There is no synopsis on NG, but I saw hockey, a cute cover, romance, and I was immediately interested. I will never say no to good hockey romance.
Let's get the obvious thing out of the way. I would not have picked this up if I knew it was a surprise pregnancy, and I don't like this trope in general. There are so many things that could go south with it. It is not done in a way most people would be used to, and I found it odd. The pregnancy is kind of planned, but it's also completely out of nowhere. They sleep together once, without a condom, and I already smelled the twist in the air. Then they go for the morning-after pill, so I started to ease up, only for the MMC to tell the FMC not to take it? So she doesn't? And she's like, let's have this baby as friends? So odd. Not even mentioning that the MMC really does not go along with this request and starts "I love you"ing her every chance possible.
My breaking point was when she takes him to her ob-gyn appointment and he's like, "This baby will be born in the off-season, you could not be more perfect." Like, if the FMC somehow planned this? For someone googling up all of the random pregnancy facts, is the concept of time the one thing slipping between his fingers?
I would personally consider most of this a spoiler, since all of this took place by 60%, but it's all in the synopsis on Goodreads, so the writer/publisher does let you know.
I found the ex to be a cartoonish depiction of a toxic boyfriend, but with the emotional impact missing. The FMC is scared of him, but I never felt like I should really be worried for her. Most of the stuff he did is only mentioned in passing, and his biggest crime is basically not making her cum and parking where he shouldn't. The MMC is made to be his complete opposite, except he does actually have a violent past. Of course he cares for his brother only because it was his dying mother's last wish. Gallant, but at the same time, I think giving him money for booze would not qualify as "taking care of him," and I'm somehow sure his mum would agree.
The hockey theme is more of a side theme. This is definitely more of an ex's brother and toxic ex story with some planned but really not smart pregnancy. If this happened in real life, I would consider both parties insane. She gets out of an abusive relationship just to get a baby with the first guy who is somehow nice to her after sleeping together once. It's like a setup for becoming Wife-Swap material.
I've listened to the audiobook, and it was done well enough to help me listen for so long. The narrators were well chosen, but the female narrator spoke extremely slowly. She almost sounded like her slow speaking was being further slowed down. I did not have this issue with the male narrator. Usually, I don't speed audiobooks up too much, but anything under 1.5x was very annoying to listen to.
PS: Other reviews mention lactation kink, and boy, is it at the top of my ick list. I am actually glad I DNF'd before I had to face it myself.
ALC received from NetGalley.
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 17, 2026
4.25🌟 | 3🌶️
ARC Review 📖
Apparently, sometimes choosing the wrong brother is just the first step toward finding the one who has been waiting for you all along.
The forbidden setup, years of pining, and unexpected pregnancy twist made this such an addictive read, and I especially liked the fresh spin Ruth put on the trope. The added suspense kept things moving too, especially with Kane constantly lurking in the background and making it impossible for Vesper to fully relax.
Silas was absolutely swoony. This man was down bad for Vesper for YEARS, and the way he showed up for her made him such a massive green flag. Protective, patient, affectionate, and completely devoted, he had every love language covered. I also really liked seeing Vesper slowly realize that she didn’t have to handle everything alone and could finally let someone take care of her. Their chemistry made the whole thing even better, especially after all that buildup.
The romance, emotional growth, and messy family dynamics made this such a fun addition to the series. I flew through it, got very attached to these two, and had the best time watching Vesper finally experience the kind of love she deserved.
Another swoony hockey romance that left me very happy to be back in this world.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah made this audiobook such a fun listen. I really liked how distinct their performances felt, with Raven capturing Vesper’s guardedness and vulnerability while Tristan gave Silas that perfect mix of tough hockey captain and completely smitten man. Their chemistry came through really naturally in the dialogue, and the emotional scenes had enough depth without feeling overperformed. I also appreciated the pacing of the narration because it made this such an easy audiobook to sink into, especially during the more suspenseful moments. There were so many little shifts in emotion between the characters, and both narrators did a great job making those moments noticeable without taking me out of the story. This was my first time listening to either narrator, and I’d definitely be happy to pick up another audiobook from them.
~~~~
I was so excited to experience this one in both formats. Having the ARC and ALC meant I could fully sink into the story, and honestly, it made the experience that much better.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Ruth Stilling and her lovely Team and NetGalley for the ARC & ALC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
ARC Review 📖
Apparently, sometimes choosing the wrong brother is just the first step toward finding the one who has been waiting for you all along.
The forbidden setup, years of pining, and unexpected pregnancy twist made this such an addictive read, and I especially liked the fresh spin Ruth put on the trope. The added suspense kept things moving too, especially with Kane constantly lurking in the background and making it impossible for Vesper to fully relax.
Silas was absolutely swoony. This man was down bad for Vesper for YEARS, and the way he showed up for her made him such a massive green flag. Protective, patient, affectionate, and completely devoted, he had every love language covered. I also really liked seeing Vesper slowly realize that she didn’t have to handle everything alone and could finally let someone take care of her. Their chemistry made the whole thing even better, especially after all that buildup.
The romance, emotional growth, and messy family dynamics made this such a fun addition to the series. I flew through it, got very attached to these two, and had the best time watching Vesper finally experience the kind of love she deserved.
Another swoony hockey romance that left me very happy to be back in this world.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah made this audiobook such a fun listen. I really liked how distinct their performances felt, with Raven capturing Vesper’s guardedness and vulnerability while Tristan gave Silas that perfect mix of tough hockey captain and completely smitten man. Their chemistry came through really naturally in the dialogue, and the emotional scenes had enough depth without feeling overperformed. I also appreciated the pacing of the narration because it made this such an easy audiobook to sink into, especially during the more suspenseful moments. There were so many little shifts in emotion between the characters, and both narrators did a great job making those moments noticeable without taking me out of the story. This was my first time listening to either narrator, and I’d definitely be happy to pick up another audiobook from them.
~~~~
I was so excited to experience this one in both formats. Having the ARC and ALC meant I could fully sink into the story, and honestly, it made the experience that much better.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Ruth Stilling and her lovely Team and NetGalley for the ARC & ALC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review!!
First, I would like to thank Ruth Stilling, her team, and Tantor Media for this ARC and ALC.
Before reading this book, I was SUPER excited for Silas and Vesper's book just because of the build up in the previous book. Now that I have read it, I feel let down...
May have spoilers ahead!!
I was loving this book for the first 40-45% and Silas was such a green flag. Then I got to the accidentally pregnancy part of the book and I started side eyeing the characters HARD.
Vesper, the FMC, was in an emotional and mentally abusive relationship with Silas's brother. They break up and she starts building a friendship with Silas which turns into attraction. They sleep together and do not use any protection, shocker... BUT THEN she gets a plan b 👏🏼 and Silas comes running in telling her that she doesn't have to take it if she doesn't want to and that he will support her and their baby. Like girl JUST got done with a toxic ex and she definitely needs to have a child with a man she is kind of friends with 😅 spoiler!! She doesn't take the plan b and gets pregnant. I am sorry accidental pregnancy tropes are hard for me to enjoy based on HOW it is written and this was a no.
IF it was written without an accidental pregnancy, I probably would have enjoyed it more because the build up to them loving each other was missing too.
Also, HOW was the ex getting into buildings that he definitely should not have been🙄 it was absolutely so annoying everytime I read his name. I am glad he got what he deserved.
I am looking forward to Mason's book👀 I am assuming is next and a second chance! I love that trope. I do wish Tristian and June were confirmed as well because I see the vision.
Overall, this book would be a skip even though I loved the first book😭
First, I would like to thank Ruth Stilling, her team, and Tantor Media for this ARC and ALC.
Before reading this book, I was SUPER excited for Silas and Vesper's book just because of the build up in the previous book. Now that I have read it, I feel let down...
May have spoilers ahead!!
I was loving this book for the first 40-45% and Silas was such a green flag. Then I got to the accidentally pregnancy part of the book and I started side eyeing the characters HARD.
Vesper, the FMC, was in an emotional and mentally abusive relationship with Silas's brother. They break up and she starts building a friendship with Silas which turns into attraction. They sleep together and do not use any protection, shocker... BUT THEN she gets a plan b 👏🏼 and Silas comes running in telling her that she doesn't have to take it if she doesn't want to and that he will support her and their baby. Like girl JUST got done with a toxic ex and she definitely needs to have a child with a man she is kind of friends with 😅 spoiler!! She doesn't take the plan b and gets pregnant. I am sorry accidental pregnancy tropes are hard for me to enjoy based on HOW it is written and this was a no.
IF it was written without an accidental pregnancy, I probably would have enjoyed it more because the build up to them loving each other was missing too.
Also, HOW was the ex getting into buildings that he definitely should not have been🙄 it was absolutely so annoying everytime I read his name. I am glad he got what he deserved.
I am looking forward to Mason's book👀 I am assuming is next and a second chance! I love that trope. I do wish Tristian and June were confirmed as well because I see the vision.
Overall, this book would be a skip even though I loved the first book😭
September 18, 2026
Thank you to Ruth Stilling and Tantor Media for the ALC in exchange for an honest review 🫶
DNF @ 43% 🎧
**warning ‼️ there might be spoilers below**
I would like to first say that when I started this book I was really intrigued. I loved the cover art, the author had been on my TBR for a long time and the tropes caught my eye! The ones I was mostly excited for were ex's brother and accidental pregnancy. I'm a sucker for a glow-up and a little surprise! The first 30% of the book I was getting the lay of the land and who the characters were.
Unfortunately, while I did enjoy the beginning, by the 43% mark, I had to call it quits. I was finding it really hard to connect to these characters and actually care about them. I will say Silas was a walking green flag and I liked most of the things about him, how caring he was, how he paid attention, how protective he was, but it all felt surface-level. In the beginning, we get the backstory that he had been obsessed with the FMC for a long time, but we don't really get to see that. It's more like we were thrown into a mid-point into this story as if we were supposed to know what "being in love" for him felt like. I felt like it just lacked so much depth and I wasn't getting what I needed from the MMC
From the FMC side, I found her pretty annoying. Going back to the ex, regretting it and moping about it and then diving back in again was such a toxic cycle. By the 40% mark, the thing happens between the FMC and MMC and I was just like *major* eye roll. How are you, the FMC, saying "it couldn't be that bad" but then on the flip side you're saying "I need to sort out my feelings for the MMC" like huh?!?!? That's just not realistic. okay spoiler now.....
There was much more I could say but I really don't want to spend more time thinking about these two characters.
It could've just been that I wasn't in the right mood, But I just really couldn't vibe with this.
DNF @ 43% 🎧
**warning ‼️ there might be spoilers below**
I would like to first say that when I started this book I was really intrigued. I loved the cover art, the author had been on my TBR for a long time and the tropes caught my eye! The ones I was mostly excited for were ex's brother and accidental pregnancy. I'm a sucker for a glow-up and a little surprise! The first 30% of the book I was getting the lay of the land and who the characters were.
Unfortunately, while I did enjoy the beginning, by the 43% mark, I had to call it quits. I was finding it really hard to connect to these characters and actually care about them. I will say Silas was a walking green flag and I liked most of the things about him, how caring he was, how he paid attention, how protective he was, but it all felt surface-level. In the beginning, we get the backstory that he had been obsessed with the FMC for a long time, but we don't really get to see that. It's more like we were thrown into a mid-point into this story as if we were supposed to know what "being in love" for him felt like. I felt like it just lacked so much depth and I wasn't getting what I needed from the MMC
From the FMC side, I found her pretty annoying. Going back to the ex, regretting it and moping about it and then diving back in again was such a toxic cycle. By the 40% mark, the thing happens between the FMC and MMC and I was just like *major* eye roll. How are you, the FMC, saying "it couldn't be that bad" but then on the flip side you're saying "I need to sort out my feelings for the MMC" like huh?!?!? That's just not realistic. okay spoiler now.....
There was much more I could say but I really don't want to spend more time thinking about these two characters.
It could've just been that I wasn't in the right mood, But I just really couldn't vibe with this.
September 18, 2026
I never thought I would see the day come that I would give a five-star review for an accidental pregnancy trope, but here it is! Code Violation by Ruth Stilling is such an incredible story, and the characters are entertaining and delicious.
Vesper works at Riley’s bar, where the Seattle Rogues hockey team likes to hang out. Their captain, Silas Stanton, has his eye on the gorgeous cocktail shaker, but there’s a problem: she’s his brother’s girlfriend. His brother Kane is a rotten, no-good alcoholic who treats Vesper dreadfully, yet she keeps going back to him until she finally doesn’t. One amazing night with Silas, and her life has changed for the better and the unexpected. She’s pregnant with her ex’s brother’s baby. Now Silas is determined to show her which brother she really deserves.
I loved Vesper. Behind the bar, she’s so sure of herself; she’s confident and sassy, yet when she’s with Kane, he drains all the vitality out of her. Silas helps her find it again, brings her back to life and supports her in every way possible. I love how we get to see all sides of her, all the parts that make up this amazing woman.
Silas was such a star. He’s not perfect; he has a past and a temper but he has such a good heart. He even supports his brother because his late mother asked him to, even though Kane doesn’t deserve it. He would go to the ends of the earth for Vesper; he’d risk everything as long as she was safe and happy.
I loved this book, the second in the series. I highly recommend reading the first book, Fair Game, which features Silas’s teammate Will. He and his girl, Drew, appear a lot in this book, so I advise reading their story first, although you can still read this one on its own.
Vesper works at Riley’s bar, where the Seattle Rogues hockey team likes to hang out. Their captain, Silas Stanton, has his eye on the gorgeous cocktail shaker, but there’s a problem: she’s his brother’s girlfriend. His brother Kane is a rotten, no-good alcoholic who treats Vesper dreadfully, yet she keeps going back to him until she finally doesn’t. One amazing night with Silas, and her life has changed for the better and the unexpected. She’s pregnant with her ex’s brother’s baby. Now Silas is determined to show her which brother she really deserves.
I loved Vesper. Behind the bar, she’s so sure of herself; she’s confident and sassy, yet when she’s with Kane, he drains all the vitality out of her. Silas helps her find it again, brings her back to life and supports her in every way possible. I love how we get to see all sides of her, all the parts that make up this amazing woman.
Silas was such a star. He’s not perfect; he has a past and a temper but he has such a good heart. He even supports his brother because his late mother asked him to, even though Kane doesn’t deserve it. He would go to the ends of the earth for Vesper; he’d risk everything as long as she was safe and happy.
I loved this book, the second in the series. I highly recommend reading the first book, Fair Game, which features Silas’s teammate Will. He and his girl, Drew, appear a lot in this book, so I advise reading their story first, although you can still read this one on its own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I usually love hockey romance, so I had high hopes going in this book. Unfortunately not all books are for everyone, and this book ended up not being it for me. It’s the story of Silas and Vesper. Silas is a Seattle pro hockey player who fell in love with Vesper on first sight. Unfortunately for him, Vesper was dating Silas’s toxic brother Kane at the time. Vesper and Kane have an on/off relationship until she finally decides to leave him for good. So, what does she do? She ends up in bed with Kane’s big brother, and of course they don’t use any protection. At this point things turn weird for my taste. Silas convinces Vesper not to take the morning after pill; they will raise the baby together. They both start talking about having a baby one day after they’ve had s3x, and they’re both convinced Vesper is pregnant - which of course ends up being true. They dive straight into it, even though Kane still keeps giving trouble to Vesper.
Accidental pregnancy is not my favorite trope, but I’ve read some really good books with this trope, too. Unfortunately I found the way this book approaches the topic problematic. The biggest turnoff for me was the lactation kink - a trigger warning would’ve been nice. The beginning up until the first spicy scene: 3⭐️, the rest 1⭐️
This book is for you if you’re into
📖 hockey romance
📖 brother’s ex girlfriend
📖 forbidden love
📖 hockey player x bartender
📖 he falls first and harder
📖 accidentally pregnancy
📖 toxic, abusive ex
📖 lactation kink
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️
Accidental pregnancy is not my favorite trope, but I’ve read some really good books with this trope, too. Unfortunately I found the way this book approaches the topic problematic. The biggest turnoff for me was the lactation kink - a trigger warning would’ve been nice. The beginning up until the first spicy scene: 3⭐️, the rest 1⭐️
This book is for you if you’re into
📖 hockey romance
📖 brother’s ex girlfriend
📖 forbidden love
📖 hockey player x bartender
📖 he falls first and harder
📖 accidentally pregnancy
📖 toxic, abusive ex
📖 lactation kink
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the copy of Code Violation. I’m not a huge fan of surprise pregnancy books but I thought the plot seemed interesting, so I gave it a go. And honestly, I was having a great time at the beginning of this book. I thought Silas was a walking green flag, he was respectful, super protective and always putting Vesper first… but then he asked her not to take the Plan B and everything went downhill.
First of all, it’s crazy to me that Silas and Vesper would get together so soon after she leaves an abusive long-term relationship, but ok I can get past that if they’re hooking up. But then he admits that he’s in love with her and almost pressures her into not taking Plan B, saying he has dreamt of starting a family with her, etc… like is that not weird to her? The vibes started going downhill from there and only worsened when the pregnancy/lactation kink became a thing. 😭
So yeah, definitely not for me but I appreciate the copy for an honest review!
First of all, it’s crazy to me that Silas and Vesper would get together so soon after she leaves an abusive long-term relationship, but ok I can get past that if they’re hooking up. But then he admits that he’s in love with her and almost pressures her into not taking Plan B, saying he has dreamt of starting a family with her, etc… like is that not weird to her? The vibes started going downhill from there and only worsened when the pregnancy/lactation kink became a thing. 😭
So yeah, definitely not for me but I appreciate the copy for an honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you so much for the ALC. However, this book just wasn’t for me.
First, let’s talk about the female narrator. For me, her narration worked best at 1.5x speed. That’s pretty much all I have to say about that.
As for the book itself, everything seemed to happen out of nowhere and way too fast. The author didn’t really give the tension between the characters enough time to build, and because of that, I felt the story lacked depth.
The MMC’s actions and thoughts toward his own brother also came across more as jealousy and envy than anything else, which made it difficult for me to like him. He’s supposed to be 32, not a petty 15 y/o who’s angry because his brother has what he wants. He didn’t seem particularly interested in helping his brother and instead went after his ex-girlfriend.
And don’t even get me started on how irresponsible it felt for him to ask Vesper not to do what she was supposed to do. Like, babe… you just got out of a relationship with his brother, and you don’t even know if you actually have feelings for this guy yet!
Anyway, it sounded promising, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t my cup of tea.
First, let’s talk about the female narrator. For me, her narration worked best at 1.5x speed. That’s pretty much all I have to say about that.
As for the book itself, everything seemed to happen out of nowhere and way too fast. The author didn’t really give the tension between the characters enough time to build, and because of that, I felt the story lacked depth.
The MMC’s actions and thoughts toward his own brother also came across more as jealousy and envy than anything else, which made it difficult for me to like him. He’s supposed to be 32, not a petty 15 y/o who’s angry because his brother has what he wants. He didn’t seem particularly interested in helping his brother and instead went after his ex-girlfriend.
And don’t even get me started on how irresponsible it felt for him to ask Vesper not to do what she was supposed to do. Like, babe… you just got out of a relationship with his brother, and you don’t even know if you actually have feelings for this guy yet!
Anyway, it sounded promising, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t my cup of tea.
September 17, 2026
Average romance novel. Read the first one and decided to pick up the second one on release day.
Spoilers below:
What bothered me was one of the sex scenes. When she was pregnant and actively having sex, he was asking if she wanted to know the gender and she said she wanted to be surprised. She then started calling him Daddy. He then asked to be called Daddy again in order for him to orgasm.
That's....I understand there's an impregnation kink and lactation kink (mentioned in the book as well). But just that really icked me out. And it takes a lot for me to turn up my nose. Not only is that unbelievable, it was gross.
Spoilers below:
What bothered me was one of the sex scenes. When she was pregnant and actively having sex, he was asking if she wanted to know the gender and she said she wanted to be surprised. She then started calling him Daddy. He then asked to be called Daddy again in order for him to orgasm.
That's....I understand there's an impregnation kink and lactation kink (mentioned in the book as well). But just that really icked me out. And it takes a lot for me to turn up my nose. Not only is that unbelievable, it was gross.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2 Stars I was very excited to read Code Violation because it has two of my favorite romance tropes--hockey and accidental pregnancy--but this just didn't hit for me.
Though this is listed as an accidental pregnancy romance, I personally wouldn't categorize it as one. The pregnancy isn't planned, but it's also not an accident per se. The MMC, Silas, tells the FMC, Vesper, to not take the Plan B pill after they have unprotected sex and both seem to be very into the idea of having a child together even though they aren't together at that point. It's just very strange. There were also so few mentions of hockey that at one point when listening I forgot that Silas was a hockey player. Also, not to yuck anyone's yum, but the lactation kink and the "dirty talk" towards the end of the book was very cringey.
Once I got to the end of this point, I truly asked myself "wtf did I just read?" Not a great sign.
Though this is listed as an accidental pregnancy romance, I personally wouldn't categorize it as one. The pregnancy isn't planned, but it's also not an accident per se. The MMC, Silas, tells the FMC, Vesper, to not take the Plan B pill after they have unprotected sex and both seem to be very into the idea of having a child together even though they aren't together at that point. It's just very strange. There were also so few mentions of hockey that at one point when listening I forgot that Silas was a hockey player. Also, not to yuck anyone's yum, but the lactation kink and the "dirty talk" towards the end of the book was very cringey.
Once I got to the end of this point, I truly asked myself "wtf did I just read?" Not a great sign.
September 18, 2026
“𝙄’𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪—𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚, 𝙑𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝘼𝙩 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙄 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨, 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙚𝙙𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚.”
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LIVE FOR RUTH STILLING.
Anything Ruth writes, I am seated with wine in hand, emotional stability set to airplane mode, and my mind fully prepared to welcome thoughts that would get me escorted out of several respectable establishments.
Her books always give me the perfect combination of hockey, found family, filthy behavior, and emotional damage. I will not explain what I mean any further.
You know me.
You know exactly what I mean.
Code Violation gave me a hockey captain who has spent YEARS secretly in love with his brother’s girlfriend, and somehow that is not even the messiest part.
Sometimes you pick the wrong brother.
It happens.
The lighting was bad. You were temporarily confused. Perhaps Mercury was in the microwave.
But if the right brother eventually steps forward and says, “I want to show you why you chose the wrong brother,” there is only one reasonable response:
Clear your schedule.
Hydrate.
Make him prove it.
Vesper Stone has spent years trapped in an on-again, off-again relationship with Kane, a man who has systematically manipulated her, damaged her confidence, and convinced her to doubt her own instincts. Their relationship may be ending, but the effects of it remain. Reclaiming yourself after emotional abuse is not as simple as changing the locks and announcing that you are healed.
Kane’s voice has taken up residence inside her head.
It tells her she is difficult. Unworthy. Too much and somehow never enough.
Watching Vesper slowly recognize those lies for what they are was one of my favorite parts of this book. Her story is not only about finding a better man. It is about finding the version of herself that Kane tried to erase.
Fortunately, the better man is standing directly in front of her.
And he plays hockey.
Silas Stanton is the captain of the Seattle Rogues, Kane’s half brother, and a full-time representative of the He Fell First, Hardest, and Possibly Suffered Internal Organ Damage Society.
This man has loved Vesper for YEARS.
Quietly.
Painfully.
Exclusively.
He saw her first, wanted her first, and then stepped aside because she chose his brother. He never tried to interfere unless he believed she was being hurt. He honored his family, kept the promise he made to his late mother, and buried his feelings so deeply they probably required archaeological equipment to uncover.
Did that stop him from loving her?
Absolutely not.
This man has not been pining.
He has been conducting an extended doctoral study in yearning.
Silas is a golden retriever, but let us be very clear: this golden retriever plays professional hockey, is fiercely protective, and will absolutely bite if someone threatens Vesper.
The combination is lethal.
He is warm, attentive, loyal, and determined to show her the kind of love she should have received all along. But beneath all that sweetness is a man prepared to go to war for her.
A green flag with teeth.
MY FAVORITE COLOR.
Silas does not merely tell Vesper that he is different from Kane. He proves it through every possible love language. He spends time with her. Protects her. Encourages her. Shows up at her apartment. Eats pizza with her. Watches movies with her. Gives her friendship when that is all she can accept and waits for her to decide whether she wants more.
Meanwhile, these two are staring at each other like the last remaining thread of their self-control is actively smoking.
Friends?
BABIES.
Friends do not hold their breath every time their eyes meet.
Friends do not carry years of hidden longing and enough sexual tension to disrupt the electrical grid.
Friends certainly do not do what these two eventually do.
At some point, you are not “just hanging out.”
You are one extended gaze away from horizontal consequences.
What made Silas completely irresistible was how firmly he placed Vesper’s choices in her hands. He knows what he wants. He has known for years. But his desire never becomes another cage she must escape.
He is the king of consent.
He wants Vesper, but he wants her to feel safe more.
He wants a future with her, but he refuses to take away her agency to get it.
He wants to protect her without controlling her.
After everything Kane put her through, that distinction matters.
Silas’s devotion is intense, but it is never about owning Vesper. It is about reminding her that she owns herself.
Excuse me while I put my wine down and scream into a decorative pillow.
When they finally stop pretending their feelings are manageable, the payoff is DELICIOUS. There is so much history beneath their attraction that every touch feels overdue. Silas is not discovering he wants Vesper. He is finally being allowed to express feelings he has kept locked away for years.
And Vesper?
Our queen does not simply fall at his feet.
She makes him work for it.
As she should.
If a man wants to announce that she chose the wrong brother, he had better arrive with supporting evidence, a detailed presentation, and practical demonstrations.
Silas came prepared.
Good for him.
Even better for Vesper.
The spice was spicing, the yearning was yearning, and certain highly specific interests appeared that caused me to stare at my Kindle and whisper:
“Ruth. Ma’am. We have discussed your behavior.”
Lactation k!nk.
That is all I will say.
Amazon is already clutching its pearls, and I would like this review to remain eligible for public consumption.
Then Ruth adds an accidental pregnancy, because apparently my emotions were not already being tenderized enough.
I usually need this trope handled carefully, and I loved the slightly different approach here. The pregnancy is not tossed into the story as a cheap shortcut to force Silas and Vesper together. It becomes a complicated, deeply personal decision about what they want their lives to look like.
Silas knows what he wants, but again, he never steals the choice from Vesper. He lays his heart on the line while understanding that the final decision belongs to her.
This man looked at a potentially life-altering situation and responded with patience, love, and support.
The bar is in hell, yet Silas has somehow launched himself into the stratosphere.
Of course, their happiness is complicated by the fact that Vesper’s ex is Silas’s brother—and Kane is not the kind of man who accepts losing control gracefully.
The romantic suspense added exactly the right amount of dread. Even during the soft scenes, there is always that lingering question:
When is Kane going to appear again?
His presence hangs over their relationship like an incoming storm. Vesper may be finished with him, but he is not finished treating her as something that belongs to him.
Sir, she does not want you.
Your subscription has been canceled.
Please stop contacting customer service.
Kane’s refusal to let Vesper move forward creates several tense moments, and I loved watching Silas balance his instinct to protect her with his determination not to become another man making choices on her behalf.
He will absolutely defend her.
He may even rearrange someone’s face if circumstances require it.
But he never mistakes protection for permission to control her.
That is why Silas works so beautifully as Vesper’s partner. He does not rescue her from Kane and expect gratitude. He stands beside her while she rebuilds the confidence to rescue herself.
And when the bad guy finally gets what is coming to him?
Satisfying.
Deserved.
No notes from the jury.
The found family was once again everything. Ruth’s hockey teams never feel like a random collection of attractive men placed together for future book opportunities. They feel like brothers. The group chats, the teasing, the fierce loyalty, and the women’s friendships bring so much warmth to the story.
These people show up for one another.
They interfere when necessary.
They roast each other without mercy.
And when someone threatens one of their own, the entire team shifts into protective formation.
I adore them.
I also loved seeing familiar characters and catching the breadcrumbs for what is coming next. These books can stand alone, but reading them in order adds another layer because the relationships and friendships continue growing in the background.
Code Violation gave me everything I wanted from Silas and Vesper’s story: years of forbidden longing, brother-related mess, an obsessed but respectful hero, a heroine reclaiming her power, suspense, found family, accidental pregnancy, and enough spice to make me reconsider whether reading in public is ever a responsible choice.
More than anything, I loved watching Vesper realize she was never asking for too much.
She was simply asking the wrong man.
Silas does not tolerate her needs.
He cherishes the opportunity to meet them.
He does not make her earn tenderness.
He gives it freely.
He does not see loving her as an obligation to his brother, his family, or his past.
He sees it as the easiest decision he has ever made.
Five stars for Vesper finding the right brother, Silas earning an advanced degree in yearning, and Ruth Stilling once again combining hockey, heat, humor, and emotional devastation into something I could not put down.
Ruth, I remain obsessed with you.
I will be seated for anything you write—wine poured, Kindle charged, and unholy thoughts ready for immediate deployment.
Please check the content warnings before reading, particularly regarding emotional abuse and manipulation by a former partner.
Now, if anyone needs me, I will be staring into the distance and thinking about Silas Stanton saying she chose the wrong brother.
Because she did.
And the right one was ready to show her why. 🫠
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LIVE FOR RUTH STILLING.
Anything Ruth writes, I am seated with wine in hand, emotional stability set to airplane mode, and my mind fully prepared to welcome thoughts that would get me escorted out of several respectable establishments.
Her books always give me the perfect combination of hockey, found family, filthy behavior, and emotional damage. I will not explain what I mean any further.
You know me.
You know exactly what I mean.
Code Violation gave me a hockey captain who has spent YEARS secretly in love with his brother’s girlfriend, and somehow that is not even the messiest part.
Sometimes you pick the wrong brother.
It happens.
The lighting was bad. You were temporarily confused. Perhaps Mercury was in the microwave.
But if the right brother eventually steps forward and says, “I want to show you why you chose the wrong brother,” there is only one reasonable response:
Clear your schedule.
Hydrate.
Make him prove it.
Vesper Stone has spent years trapped in an on-again, off-again relationship with Kane, a man who has systematically manipulated her, damaged her confidence, and convinced her to doubt her own instincts. Their relationship may be ending, but the effects of it remain. Reclaiming yourself after emotional abuse is not as simple as changing the locks and announcing that you are healed.
Kane’s voice has taken up residence inside her head.
It tells her she is difficult. Unworthy. Too much and somehow never enough.
Watching Vesper slowly recognize those lies for what they are was one of my favorite parts of this book. Her story is not only about finding a better man. It is about finding the version of herself that Kane tried to erase.
Fortunately, the better man is standing directly in front of her.
And he plays hockey.
Silas Stanton is the captain of the Seattle Rogues, Kane’s half brother, and a full-time representative of the He Fell First, Hardest, and Possibly Suffered Internal Organ Damage Society.
This man has loved Vesper for YEARS.
Quietly.
Painfully.
Exclusively.
He saw her first, wanted her first, and then stepped aside because she chose his brother. He never tried to interfere unless he believed she was being hurt. He honored his family, kept the promise he made to his late mother, and buried his feelings so deeply they probably required archaeological equipment to uncover.
Did that stop him from loving her?
Absolutely not.
This man has not been pining.
He has been conducting an extended doctoral study in yearning.
Silas is a golden retriever, but let us be very clear: this golden retriever plays professional hockey, is fiercely protective, and will absolutely bite if someone threatens Vesper.
The combination is lethal.
He is warm, attentive, loyal, and determined to show her the kind of love she should have received all along. But beneath all that sweetness is a man prepared to go to war for her.
A green flag with teeth.
MY FAVORITE COLOR.
Silas does not merely tell Vesper that he is different from Kane. He proves it through every possible love language. He spends time with her. Protects her. Encourages her. Shows up at her apartment. Eats pizza with her. Watches movies with her. Gives her friendship when that is all she can accept and waits for her to decide whether she wants more.
Meanwhile, these two are staring at each other like the last remaining thread of their self-control is actively smoking.
Friends?
BABIES.
Friends do not hold their breath every time their eyes meet.
Friends do not carry years of hidden longing and enough sexual tension to disrupt the electrical grid.
Friends certainly do not do what these two eventually do.
At some point, you are not “just hanging out.”
You are one extended gaze away from horizontal consequences.
What made Silas completely irresistible was how firmly he placed Vesper’s choices in her hands. He knows what he wants. He has known for years. But his desire never becomes another cage she must escape.
He is the king of consent.
He wants Vesper, but he wants her to feel safe more.
He wants a future with her, but he refuses to take away her agency to get it.
He wants to protect her without controlling her.
After everything Kane put her through, that distinction matters.
Silas’s devotion is intense, but it is never about owning Vesper. It is about reminding her that she owns herself.
Excuse me while I put my wine down and scream into a decorative pillow.
When they finally stop pretending their feelings are manageable, the payoff is DELICIOUS. There is so much history beneath their attraction that every touch feels overdue. Silas is not discovering he wants Vesper. He is finally being allowed to express feelings he has kept locked away for years.
And Vesper?
Our queen does not simply fall at his feet.
She makes him work for it.
As she should.
If a man wants to announce that she chose the wrong brother, he had better arrive with supporting evidence, a detailed presentation, and practical demonstrations.
Silas came prepared.
Good for him.
Even better for Vesper.
The spice was spicing, the yearning was yearning, and certain highly specific interests appeared that caused me to stare at my Kindle and whisper:
“Ruth. Ma’am. We have discussed your behavior.”
Lactation k!nk.
That is all I will say.
Amazon is already clutching its pearls, and I would like this review to remain eligible for public consumption.
Then Ruth adds an accidental pregnancy, because apparently my emotions were not already being tenderized enough.
I usually need this trope handled carefully, and I loved the slightly different approach here. The pregnancy is not tossed into the story as a cheap shortcut to force Silas and Vesper together. It becomes a complicated, deeply personal decision about what they want their lives to look like.
Silas knows what he wants, but again, he never steals the choice from Vesper. He lays his heart on the line while understanding that the final decision belongs to her.
This man looked at a potentially life-altering situation and responded with patience, love, and support.
The bar is in hell, yet Silas has somehow launched himself into the stratosphere.
Of course, their happiness is complicated by the fact that Vesper’s ex is Silas’s brother—and Kane is not the kind of man who accepts losing control gracefully.
The romantic suspense added exactly the right amount of dread. Even during the soft scenes, there is always that lingering question:
When is Kane going to appear again?
His presence hangs over their relationship like an incoming storm. Vesper may be finished with him, but he is not finished treating her as something that belongs to him.
Sir, she does not want you.
Your subscription has been canceled.
Please stop contacting customer service.
Kane’s refusal to let Vesper move forward creates several tense moments, and I loved watching Silas balance his instinct to protect her with his determination not to become another man making choices on her behalf.
He will absolutely defend her.
He may even rearrange someone’s face if circumstances require it.
But he never mistakes protection for permission to control her.
That is why Silas works so beautifully as Vesper’s partner. He does not rescue her from Kane and expect gratitude. He stands beside her while she rebuilds the confidence to rescue herself.
And when the bad guy finally gets what is coming to him?
Satisfying.
Deserved.
No notes from the jury.
The found family was once again everything. Ruth’s hockey teams never feel like a random collection of attractive men placed together for future book opportunities. They feel like brothers. The group chats, the teasing, the fierce loyalty, and the women’s friendships bring so much warmth to the story.
These people show up for one another.
They interfere when necessary.
They roast each other without mercy.
And when someone threatens one of their own, the entire team shifts into protective formation.
I adore them.
I also loved seeing familiar characters and catching the breadcrumbs for what is coming next. These books can stand alone, but reading them in order adds another layer because the relationships and friendships continue growing in the background.
Code Violation gave me everything I wanted from Silas and Vesper’s story: years of forbidden longing, brother-related mess, an obsessed but respectful hero, a heroine reclaiming her power, suspense, found family, accidental pregnancy, and enough spice to make me reconsider whether reading in public is ever a responsible choice.
More than anything, I loved watching Vesper realize she was never asking for too much.
She was simply asking the wrong man.
Silas does not tolerate her needs.
He cherishes the opportunity to meet them.
He does not make her earn tenderness.
He gives it freely.
He does not see loving her as an obligation to his brother, his family, or his past.
He sees it as the easiest decision he has ever made.
Five stars for Vesper finding the right brother, Silas earning an advanced degree in yearning, and Ruth Stilling once again combining hockey, heat, humor, and emotional devastation into something I could not put down.
Ruth, I remain obsessed with you.
I will be seated for anything you write—wine poured, Kindle charged, and unholy thoughts ready for immediate deployment.
Please check the content warnings before reading, particularly regarding emotional abuse and manipulation by a former partner.
Now, if anyone needs me, I will be staring into the distance and thinking about Silas Stanton saying she chose the wrong brother.
Because she did.
And the right one was ready to show her why. 🫠
September 19, 2026
⭐⭐⭐ ✨ (3.75 stars)
I really enjoyed the first book in The Rules of the Rink series by Ruth Stilling. So I was really curious to finally get Vesper and Silas’s story in Code Violation, especially because we’d already gotten glimpses of them in the previous book.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
🤰 Accidental Pregnancy (+ Lactation Kink)
🥹 He Falls First & Hard
🚫 Brother’s Ex-Girlfriend
😒 Grumpy NHL Captain
👀 Look at Her and Die
🔪 All the Suspense
🫶 Found Family
🤤 Boy Obsessed
💔 No Third-Act Breakup
Vesper was probably the character I struggled with the most. She has been in a relationship with Kane for two years, followed by another year of going back and forth in a situationship, and I found myself getting frustrated with some of her choices throughout that whole situation. What especially confused me was that she finally decides to leave him for good after they sleep together and he tells her that she isn’t good in bed. I understand that leaving an unhealthy relationship isn’t simple, but I just couldn’t understand why that was the thing that finally pushed her to leave. I wanted to see her recognize that she deserved better because of everything she had already been through, rather than that particular moment being the turning point.
I also thought Vesper’s previous relationship had too much influence over her story. I wanted more of her figuring herself out and more time for her and Silas to develop something that belonged entirely to them. Especially because, after Fair Game, I had assumed Vesper might have some feelings for Silas already, but that didn’t really seem to be the case here. I was expecting at least some underlying feelings from her side, so seeing how differently she approached their relationship was a little surprising.
Silas, meanwhile, was completely gone for her. He had been carrying feelings for Vesper for years and had basically never allowed himself to move on because, in his mind, it was always going to be her. I really felt for him because those feelings were so one-sided for such a long time. I also loved how consistently he checked in on her and showed up for her whenever she needed him.
At the same time, I thought their transition from friends to something more happened really quickly. They only sleep together once before the pregnancy storyline begins, and even that felt quite sudden to me. I think I would have preferred more time seeing them actually explore their attraction and build a relationship before everything changed so quickly.
The pregnancy situation was probably another thing I struggled with. They sleep together without protection, talk about taking the morning-after pill, and even go out to buy it. Then Silas tells Vesper he doesn’t want her to take it because she gets sick whenever she has taken it in the past. I understand that they both want children someday, but at this point they aren’t even together, Vesper isn’t in love with him yet, and they haven’t really had the chance to establish what they are.
What made this especially difficult for me was that both of them have complicated childhoods. Vesper doesn’t have a good relationship with her parents, while Silas lost his mom and has a difficult relationship with his half-brother. Because of their own experiences, I would have expected them to think a little more carefully about bringing a child into the situation. I know they both want a family eventually, but the decision felt very quick considering everything surrounding them.
I also really wish we had gotten more development from Vesper’s side. We know exactly how Silas feels because he has been yearning for her for years, but I didn’t feel that same emotional progression from Vesper. I wanted to watch her slowly realize that what she has with Silas is different, especially after spending so much of her life in an unhealthy relationship. I think seeing that transition would have made their romance much more convincing for me.
Another thing that didn’t quite work for me was how much time was spent on Mason and what he’s going through. I understand that this is an interconnected series and that his storyline is setting up what’s coming next, but I sometimes felt like that took away from the time we could have spent developing Vesper and Silas. That said, the setup definitely worked because I am now very curious about Mason and Eloise.
One thing I really love about Ruth Stilling’s books is the friend groups. The guys and girls have such a fun dynamic, and I really enjoy the banter, support, and way they all show up for each other. I also like that the characters have their own complicated histories and issues, which makes the world feel much more layered.
I also really liked the introduction of Rhys, the new goalie. I’m hoping we get to see more of him in the upcoming books because I’m already curious about his story. And there was that little hint about Marley, Drew’s sister, that made me wonder if something could eventually happen there. I definitely wouldn’t complain about seeing more of them together.
As for the rest of the series, I’m really looking forward to Mason and Eloise. I’m assuming theirs will be the next book, and if we’re getting a second-chance romance, I’m definitely interested. I love that trope when it’s done well, and I really want to see how their story plays out.
I’m also curious about Tristan and June. I didn’t completely warm up to Tristan in this book, but I have a feeling there’s a lot more to him than we’ve seen so far. I can already see the potential for some really good character development in his story, and I’m hoping June will be the person who makes him believe in love. I definitely see the vision there.
Overall, 3.75 stars for me! I had quite a few issues with the romance, especially the pacing and the lack of development from Vesper’s side, and I would have loved more of their history and emotional connection before everything moved so quickly. But despite that, it was still a quick and fun read, and I’m invested enough in the series to keep going. I’m definitely ready for more Mason and Eloise, and I’m curious to see what Ruth Stilling has planned for the rest of this group.
I really enjoyed the first book in The Rules of the Rink series by Ruth Stilling. So I was really curious to finally get Vesper and Silas’s story in Code Violation, especially because we’d already gotten glimpses of them in the previous book.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
🤰 Accidental Pregnancy (+ Lactation Kink)
🥹 He Falls First & Hard
🚫 Brother’s Ex-Girlfriend
😒 Grumpy NHL Captain
👀 Look at Her and Die
🔪 All the Suspense
🫶 Found Family
🤤 Boy Obsessed
💔 No Third-Act Breakup
Vesper was probably the character I struggled with the most. She has been in a relationship with Kane for two years, followed by another year of going back and forth in a situationship, and I found myself getting frustrated with some of her choices throughout that whole situation. What especially confused me was that she finally decides to leave him for good after they sleep together and he tells her that she isn’t good in bed. I understand that leaving an unhealthy relationship isn’t simple, but I just couldn’t understand why that was the thing that finally pushed her to leave. I wanted to see her recognize that she deserved better because of everything she had already been through, rather than that particular moment being the turning point.
I also thought Vesper’s previous relationship had too much influence over her story. I wanted more of her figuring herself out and more time for her and Silas to develop something that belonged entirely to them. Especially because, after Fair Game, I had assumed Vesper might have some feelings for Silas already, but that didn’t really seem to be the case here. I was expecting at least some underlying feelings from her side, so seeing how differently she approached their relationship was a little surprising.
Silas, meanwhile, was completely gone for her. He had been carrying feelings for Vesper for years and had basically never allowed himself to move on because, in his mind, it was always going to be her. I really felt for him because those feelings were so one-sided for such a long time. I also loved how consistently he checked in on her and showed up for her whenever she needed him.
At the same time, I thought their transition from friends to something more happened really quickly. They only sleep together once before the pregnancy storyline begins, and even that felt quite sudden to me. I think I would have preferred more time seeing them actually explore their attraction and build a relationship before everything changed so quickly.
The pregnancy situation was probably another thing I struggled with. They sleep together without protection, talk about taking the morning-after pill, and even go out to buy it. Then Silas tells Vesper he doesn’t want her to take it because she gets sick whenever she has taken it in the past. I understand that they both want children someday, but at this point they aren’t even together, Vesper isn’t in love with him yet, and they haven’t really had the chance to establish what they are.
What made this especially difficult for me was that both of them have complicated childhoods. Vesper doesn’t have a good relationship with her parents, while Silas lost his mom and has a difficult relationship with his half-brother. Because of their own experiences, I would have expected them to think a little more carefully about bringing a child into the situation. I know they both want a family eventually, but the decision felt very quick considering everything surrounding them.
I also really wish we had gotten more development from Vesper’s side. We know exactly how Silas feels because he has been yearning for her for years, but I didn’t feel that same emotional progression from Vesper. I wanted to watch her slowly realize that what she has with Silas is different, especially after spending so much of her life in an unhealthy relationship. I think seeing that transition would have made their romance much more convincing for me.
Another thing that didn’t quite work for me was how much time was spent on Mason and what he’s going through. I understand that this is an interconnected series and that his storyline is setting up what’s coming next, but I sometimes felt like that took away from the time we could have spent developing Vesper and Silas. That said, the setup definitely worked because I am now very curious about Mason and Eloise.
One thing I really love about Ruth Stilling’s books is the friend groups. The guys and girls have such a fun dynamic, and I really enjoy the banter, support, and way they all show up for each other. I also like that the characters have their own complicated histories and issues, which makes the world feel much more layered.
I also really liked the introduction of Rhys, the new goalie. I’m hoping we get to see more of him in the upcoming books because I’m already curious about his story. And there was that little hint about Marley, Drew’s sister, that made me wonder if something could eventually happen there. I definitely wouldn’t complain about seeing more of them together.
As for the rest of the series, I’m really looking forward to Mason and Eloise. I’m assuming theirs will be the next book, and if we’re getting a second-chance romance, I’m definitely interested. I love that trope when it’s done well, and I really want to see how their story plays out.
I’m also curious about Tristan and June. I didn’t completely warm up to Tristan in this book, but I have a feeling there’s a lot more to him than we’ve seen so far. I can already see the potential for some really good character development in his story, and I’m hoping June will be the person who makes him believe in love. I definitely see the vision there.
Overall, 3.75 stars for me! I had quite a few issues with the romance, especially the pacing and the lack of development from Vesper’s side, and I would have loved more of their history and emotional connection before everything moved so quickly. But despite that, it was still a quick and fun read, and I’m invested enough in the series to keep going. I’m definitely ready for more Mason and Eloise, and I’m curious to see what Ruth Stilling has planned for the rest of this group.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2026
#Review: *Code Violation* - Ruth Stilling - ARC/ALC [18+]
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Vesper Stone was off limits for hockey player Silas Stanton, even if he had a huge crush on her for a quite long time. Why so? Because Vesper was his brother's girlfriend or, better said, soon to be ex girlfriend. Vesper was trying really hard to stay away from Cage (Silas's brother), because of the toxic relationship she was having with him. But can she throw herself in the arm of his brother? He was the only one who was kind with her, but was she ok to cross that line with him after the disastrous relationship she had with his brother?
Do I love when he falls first? Hell yeah!!! Silas was completely nuts about Vesper, but he had so much restraint when it came to his feelings! I truly loooved that chase and how absolutely adorable he was when it came to her. A true book boyfriend, that's for sure! He was so protective of her and it was super sweet the way he tried to compensate for everything his douchey brother did to her. I was completely charmed by one moment in particular from this story, one where Silas didn't care about anything else and he was something like 'fuck that, I'm doing whatever I feel'. That part melted my heart, but I cannot share more than this, because I don't want to spoil anything from this story. But I can say that Silas was superrr swoony!! 😍 Vesper has been through so many shitty things over the years and I liked that she kept on being strong, even if she still had some normal moments of weakness. This time she had Silas in her corner and it was absolutely adorable the way these two were together, even if they weren't a thing. Yet?🤭
For this audiobook we had Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah, both new to me, but it was impossible to not love them! They had such an incredible chemistry and I loove the way they made me feel all those emotional things from this story. They both did an incredible job! There was one little, tiny thing which has bothered me, and that was the fact that I kept on hearing Raven's breathing, but that could have been just me, being a little sensitive about this kind of stuff.
Do I want the next book now? Of couuurse I dooo!! I cannot wait for the next book, loving so much this series so far!
Sooo grateful to be part of Ruth's content team and for the opportunity of reading and listening to this books in advance. THANK YOUUU! 🥰💙
✨Tropes
▫️Brother's Ex-Girlfriend
▫️He Falls First & Hard
▫️Grumpy NHL Captain
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Look At Her & Die
▫️Found Family
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Vesper Stone was off limits for hockey player Silas Stanton, even if he had a huge crush on her for a quite long time. Why so? Because Vesper was his brother's girlfriend or, better said, soon to be ex girlfriend. Vesper was trying really hard to stay away from Cage (Silas's brother), because of the toxic relationship she was having with him. But can she throw herself in the arm of his brother? He was the only one who was kind with her, but was she ok to cross that line with him after the disastrous relationship she had with his brother?
Do I love when he falls first? Hell yeah!!! Silas was completely nuts about Vesper, but he had so much restraint when it came to his feelings! I truly loooved that chase and how absolutely adorable he was when it came to her. A true book boyfriend, that's for sure! He was so protective of her and it was super sweet the way he tried to compensate for everything his douchey brother did to her. I was completely charmed by one moment in particular from this story, one where Silas didn't care about anything else and he was something like 'fuck that, I'm doing whatever I feel'. That part melted my heart, but I cannot share more than this, because I don't want to spoil anything from this story. But I can say that Silas was superrr swoony!! 😍 Vesper has been through so many shitty things over the years and I liked that she kept on being strong, even if she still had some normal moments of weakness. This time she had Silas in her corner and it was absolutely adorable the way these two were together, even if they weren't a thing. Yet?🤭
For this audiobook we had Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah, both new to me, but it was impossible to not love them! They had such an incredible chemistry and I loove the way they made me feel all those emotional things from this story. They both did an incredible job! There was one little, tiny thing which has bothered me, and that was the fact that I kept on hearing Raven's breathing, but that could have been just me, being a little sensitive about this kind of stuff.
Do I want the next book now? Of couuurse I dooo!! I cannot wait for the next book, loving so much this series so far!
Sooo grateful to be part of Ruth's content team and for the opportunity of reading and listening to this books in advance. THANK YOUUU! 🥰💙
✨Tropes
▫️Brother's Ex-Girlfriend
▫️He Falls First & Hard
▫️Grumpy NHL Captain
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Look At Her & Die
▫️Found Family
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
September 12, 2026
I received Code Violation as an eARC & ALC from Hambright PR & Ruth Stilling. This was my first novel by Ruth Stilling, but it’s book #2 in her Rules of the Rink series. It’s safe to say that, after reading Code Violation, I will be going back to read book #1, Fair Game, and divulging in Drew & Will’s story.
Code Violation is a steamy hockey romance featuring Vesper Stone & NHL star and Captain of the Seattle Rogues, Silas Stanton. Vesper & Silas have know each other for a while, because Vesper was dating Silas’s brother, Kane. What she doesn’t realize is, Silas is in love with her. When Vesper & Kane break up for the millionth time and this time she swears it’s for good, Silas decides it’s time to show her that she picked the wrong brother. When a steamy one night stand turns into an accidental, but also not accidental, pregnancy, Silas pulls out all the stops, determined to love Vesper & his baby with everything he has.
There’s so much I need to say about this book, but also that I can’t say yet because it’s not been released… let me just put it this way: Silas Stanton is THE book boyfriend. The ultimate book boyfriend. I mean, come on. NHL star, hockey caption, bad boy, but also soft and gooey on the inside for his girl? Sign. Me. Up.
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Silas & Vesper. The intensity, the pining, the yearning… ugh. It was everything I needed wrapped up into one. I’m a sucker for hockey romance, and this one was absolute perfection. The story was also very unique, and something I hadn’t experienced before. The suspense was suspensing and, yeah I need to go back and read Will & Drew’s story ASAP. I’m also super intrigued by the next book in this series, as I think the ending made it super clear who it’s going to be about and when I tell you, I am SAT. It’s going to be so good, I can already tell.
My only complaint with this book is how fast I felt like it all went. Honestly, I could’ve been sat for another 300 pages if Ruth would’ve given it to us. In the end, I just found myself wanting more. More more moreee. But that’s how you know it’s a good book, when the author leaves you wanting more. There were also some cheesy, cringe-worthy moments but you know what, it’s romance. I won’t fault her for it.
All of this to say… if you love hockey romance, you need to dive into this one. It releases September 17th and you better RUN to get your hands on it. Especially with tropes like:
💙 Brother’s Ex Girlfriend
💙 Friends to Lovers
💙 He Falls First and HARD
💙 Accidental Pregnancy
💙 Touch Her & ☠️
💙 Forbidden Love
Have I convinced you yet? Okay good. Out 9.17.26!
Code Violation is a steamy hockey romance featuring Vesper Stone & NHL star and Captain of the Seattle Rogues, Silas Stanton. Vesper & Silas have know each other for a while, because Vesper was dating Silas’s brother, Kane. What she doesn’t realize is, Silas is in love with her. When Vesper & Kane break up for the millionth time and this time she swears it’s for good, Silas decides it’s time to show her that she picked the wrong brother. When a steamy one night stand turns into an accidental, but also not accidental, pregnancy, Silas pulls out all the stops, determined to love Vesper & his baby with everything he has.
There’s so much I need to say about this book, but also that I can’t say yet because it’s not been released… let me just put it this way: Silas Stanton is THE book boyfriend. The ultimate book boyfriend. I mean, come on. NHL star, hockey caption, bad boy, but also soft and gooey on the inside for his girl? Sign. Me. Up.
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Silas & Vesper. The intensity, the pining, the yearning… ugh. It was everything I needed wrapped up into one. I’m a sucker for hockey romance, and this one was absolute perfection. The story was also very unique, and something I hadn’t experienced before. The suspense was suspensing and, yeah I need to go back and read Will & Drew’s story ASAP. I’m also super intrigued by the next book in this series, as I think the ending made it super clear who it’s going to be about and when I tell you, I am SAT. It’s going to be so good, I can already tell.
My only complaint with this book is how fast I felt like it all went. Honestly, I could’ve been sat for another 300 pages if Ruth would’ve given it to us. In the end, I just found myself wanting more. More more moreee. But that’s how you know it’s a good book, when the author leaves you wanting more. There were also some cheesy, cringe-worthy moments but you know what, it’s romance. I won’t fault her for it.
All of this to say… if you love hockey romance, you need to dive into this one. It releases September 17th and you better RUN to get your hands on it. Especially with tropes like:
💙 Brother’s Ex Girlfriend
💙 Friends to Lovers
💙 He Falls First and HARD
💙 Accidental Pregnancy
💙 Touch Her & ☠️
💙 Forbidden Love
Have I convinced you yet? Okay good. Out 9.17.26!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m honestly not sure how to put my thoughts into words because I really, really wanted to love this book, but unfortunately, I don’t think I can say that I did.
Vesper was probably the biggest struggle for me. I found myself getting frustrated with her choices, especially when it took Kane having sex with her and then telling her it wasn’t good for her to finally walk away from him after three years. Not the emotional or mental abuse she had been experiencing throughout their relationship, but that. I just couldn’t understand it.
As for Silas, I really loved that he consistently checked in on Vesper and was there for her. At the same time, I felt incredibly bad for him. Having those one-sided feelings for so long and never really allowing himself to have an actual relationship because, in his eyes, it was always Vesper… that was heartbreaking to read.
The accidental pregnancy trope was also handled a little differently in this book. And maybe this is one of those situations where my own personal journey made it harder for me to connect with the storyline, but it just didn’t click for me. The whole “you’re already pregnant, so please don’t take the pill because I want you to have this baby with me” situation, followed by essentially being okay with her not loving him or wanting to truly be with him yet while still hoping she would eventually get there, was just something I personally couldn’t deal with. I know everyone will have different feelings about it, and that’s completely okay. It just wasn’t for me.
Unfortunately, the audiobook didn’t quite hit for me either. Tristan Josiah and Raven Hawkins both did a great job with their performances, and I really liked that they each had their own voices for the characters. I just don’t know that I felt the emotional connection and chemistry I was hoping for from the audiobook.
I made it to 58%, but ultimately, I had to DNF. I really wanted this one to work for me, but sometimes a book just doesn’t click, even when you desperately want it to.
Vesper was probably the biggest struggle for me. I found myself getting frustrated with her choices, especially when it took Kane having sex with her and then telling her it wasn’t good for her to finally walk away from him after three years. Not the emotional or mental abuse she had been experiencing throughout their relationship, but that. I just couldn’t understand it.
As for Silas, I really loved that he consistently checked in on Vesper and was there for her. At the same time, I felt incredibly bad for him. Having those one-sided feelings for so long and never really allowing himself to have an actual relationship because, in his eyes, it was always Vesper… that was heartbreaking to read.
The accidental pregnancy trope was also handled a little differently in this book. And maybe this is one of those situations where my own personal journey made it harder for me to connect with the storyline, but it just didn’t click for me. The whole “you’re already pregnant, so please don’t take the pill because I want you to have this baby with me” situation, followed by essentially being okay with her not loving him or wanting to truly be with him yet while still hoping she would eventually get there, was just something I personally couldn’t deal with. I know everyone will have different feelings about it, and that’s completely okay. It just wasn’t for me.
Unfortunately, the audiobook didn’t quite hit for me either. Tristan Josiah and Raven Hawkins both did a great job with their performances, and I really liked that they each had their own voices for the characters. I just don’t know that I felt the emotional connection and chemistry I was hoping for from the audiobook.
I made it to 58%, but ultimately, I had to DNF. I really wanted this one to work for me, but sometimes a book just doesn’t click, even when you desperately want it to.
September 17, 2026
I came across an ALC of this on netgalley and got instantly invested and then I signed up thinking I probably wouldn't be accepted. Then I got offered a review copy and had a massive dilemma. Do I try to read book 1 first, in the very limited time I had or do I just listen to this one and circle back later. But I know me, so I picked up book 1 and loved it and I am so glad I did.
I honestly think you could easily and happily read this as a standalone, but I loved getting that little bit of history between Silas and Vesper through the eyes of their friends. Plus, book 1 was a pretty good read on its own.
So, the history between Silas and Vesper was still pretty current in this book and I loved it. Vesper was such a realistic, easy to relate to character and I loved how determined she was to fix her own mistakes and not jump into new ones. But even more I loved how fiercely Silas loved her and how he fought to win her over while also being so considerate of her needs and pace.
He never pushed her even when you could almost physically feel how badly he wanted to throw her over his shoulder and lock her in a castle. He just laid himself bare and let his actions show his sincerity. And I couldn't get enough of them.
The audio was really easy to get lost in. The narrators were awesome and I am so glad I requested it. I can't wait to see our other Rogues family members get their stories. All through the book I kept hoping for a different character to get their book next and honestly, I'm going to forget and be happy regardless.
I honestly think you could easily and happily read this as a standalone, but I loved getting that little bit of history between Silas and Vesper through the eyes of their friends. Plus, book 1 was a pretty good read on its own.
So, the history between Silas and Vesper was still pretty current in this book and I loved it. Vesper was such a realistic, easy to relate to character and I loved how determined she was to fix her own mistakes and not jump into new ones. But even more I loved how fiercely Silas loved her and how he fought to win her over while also being so considerate of her needs and pace.
He never pushed her even when you could almost physically feel how badly he wanted to throw her over his shoulder and lock her in a castle. He just laid himself bare and let his actions show his sincerity. And I couldn't get enough of them.
The audio was really easy to get lost in. The narrators were awesome and I am so glad I requested it. I can't wait to see our other Rogues family members get their stories. All through the book I kept hoping for a different character to get their book next and honestly, I'm going to forget and be happy regardless.
September 18, 2026
I just love, love, love when our main male character is just so in love with the main female character like right off the bat. And in this case, before the book even starts. Its the pining in this one!!!!
Silas has been in love with Vesper for years. She's sweet, beautiful. You see why he loves her. There's been a problem for a few years though. She's been dating his half-brother Kane. Who very clearly doesn't deserve her. It sucks so much when someone has someone else and they don't treasure what they have. Silas is living it.
Amazing thing happens though. Vesper becomes free. And Silas? He wants her in his life. SO MUCH. He was down so bad.
But theres still Kane. He is not a good guy or one who has himself together. He honestly brings Vesper down. Bad people want others to feel bad about themselves, because they suck.
Silas wants to give Vesper the world. And the way he manages it? So dedicated. Even when forces come against them.
There's such a sweet universe here. I can't believe we're in a third series! I'm still loving those OG series that pop up from time to time. And these group of guys?! I'm so invested in who's going to end up with who.
Silas has been in love with Vesper for years. She's sweet, beautiful. You see why he loves her. There's been a problem for a few years though. She's been dating his half-brother Kane. Who very clearly doesn't deserve her. It sucks so much when someone has someone else and they don't treasure what they have. Silas is living it.
Amazing thing happens though. Vesper becomes free. And Silas? He wants her in his life. SO MUCH. He was down so bad.
But theres still Kane. He is not a good guy or one who has himself together. He honestly brings Vesper down. Bad people want others to feel bad about themselves, because they suck.
Silas wants to give Vesper the world. And the way he manages it? So dedicated. Even when forces come against them.
There's such a sweet universe here. I can't believe we're in a third series! I'm still loving those OG series that pop up from time to time. And these group of guys?! I'm so invested in who's going to end up with who.
September 10, 2026
Accidentally pregnancy, hockey romance. This was a quick cute read.I really enjoyed Code Violation by Ruth Stilling! This was a hockey romance featuring Silas, the captain of the Seattle Rogues, and Vesper, who works at a bar and is living paycheck to paycheck.
I really liked the storyline of Vesper realizing she had picked the wrong brother first, only to eventually find herself with the one who had always loved her. I loved watching their relationship develop and seeing her finally find her way to the person who had always been there for her.
Silas was definitely one of my favorite parts of this book. One moment that really stood out to me was when he made it clear that he wanted a future with Vesper too, telling her that this accidental pregnancy was meant to be, and he would take care of her and the baby.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable hockey romance with a sweet love story, and I would definitely recommend it!
The audio book was done so well wtih the dual narrators.
Thank you Hambright for the ARC and AlC
I really liked the storyline of Vesper realizing she had picked the wrong brother first, only to eventually find herself with the one who had always loved her. I loved watching their relationship develop and seeing her finally find her way to the person who had always been there for her.
Silas was definitely one of my favorite parts of this book. One moment that really stood out to me was when he made it clear that he wanted a future with Vesper too, telling her that this accidental pregnancy was meant to be, and he would take care of her and the baby.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable hockey romance with a sweet love story, and I would definitely recommend it!
The audio book was done so well wtih the dual narrators.
Thank you Hambright for the ARC and AlC
September 19, 2026
Code Violation by Ruth Stilling
Rating: 2/5 Stars
Silas Stanton is in love with Vesper Stone, his brother's ex-girlfriend. When Vesper finally breaks it off with her toxic ex, Silas makes his move. After their first night together, Vesper ends up pregnant, and Silas will do everything he can to make her fall in love with him.
As a huge fan of hockey romance, I was excited to see this on NetGalley and requested the audiobook, but the story was ultimately underwhelming. While it was a fast-paced, quick read, the characters felt underdeveloped and the romance remained very surface-level. This is the second book in the series; since I haven't read the first, it's possible that reading book one provides necessary context or foundation for the relationship.
Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah deliver solid narration performances, though they weren't given much depth to work with in the material.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 2/5 Stars
Silas Stanton is in love with Vesper Stone, his brother's ex-girlfriend. When Vesper finally breaks it off with her toxic ex, Silas makes his move. After their first night together, Vesper ends up pregnant, and Silas will do everything he can to make her fall in love with him.
As a huge fan of hockey romance, I was excited to see this on NetGalley and requested the audiobook, but the story was ultimately underwhelming. While it was a fast-paced, quick read, the characters felt underdeveloped and the romance remained very surface-level. This is the second book in the series; since I haven't read the first, it's possible that reading book one provides necessary context or foundation for the relationship.
Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah deliver solid narration performances, though they weren't given much depth to work with in the material.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
1 Star ☆
A massive thank you to Ruth Stilling and Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC via NetGalley/Book Funnel!
DNF at 42%
Going into this, I was really excited to pick this book up. The tropes and the cover both drew me in, and I thought I was going to love this one because it’s a hockey romance. However, right from the start, everything felt extremely unrealistic and childish.
Within the span of (maybe) 12 hours, they have sex, then the next morning he’s already daydreaming about the possibility of her being pregnant because she mentioned needing to take a Plan B. Then circle back to talking about how crazy her ex-boyfriend was, who mind you, is the new guy’s brother. Then spends forever trying to convince herself to take the Plan B after telling him that she’s taken Plan B more than she can count. AND THEN, literally 15 minutes later, he’s telling her not to take the Plan B because the “universe is telling him to just go for her” if she is pregnant with his baby.
Like....
I couldn’t get past how quickly everything was happening and how immature and unrealistic this was. After that final chapter, I officially called it quits because I don’t see it getting better.
Again, thank you to Ruth Stilling and Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review.
A massive thank you to Ruth Stilling and Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC via NetGalley/Book Funnel!
DNF at 42%
Going into this, I was really excited to pick this book up. The tropes and the cover both drew me in, and I thought I was going to love this one because it’s a hockey romance. However, right from the start, everything felt extremely unrealistic and childish.
Within the span of (maybe) 12 hours, they have sex, then the next morning he’s already daydreaming about the possibility of her being pregnant because she mentioned needing to take a Plan B. Then circle back to talking about how crazy her ex-boyfriend was, who mind you, is the new guy’s brother. Then spends forever trying to convince herself to take the Plan B after telling him that she’s taken Plan B more than she can count. AND THEN, literally 15 minutes later, he’s telling her not to take the Plan B because the “universe is telling him to just go for her” if she is pregnant with his baby.
Like....
I couldn’t get past how quickly everything was happening and how immature and unrealistic this was. After that final chapter, I officially called it quits because I don’t see it getting better.
Again, thank you to Ruth Stilling and Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Code Violation is the second hockey romance in The Rules of the Rink series. Silas has been in love with his half brother’s girlfriend, Vesper, for a longtime. When Vesper had had enough of the way she’s being treated in her relationship Silas is there to help her escape. It’s not long before sparks are flying.
I am a huge hockey romance fans and enjoyed the first book in this series so o wanted to check this one out. This book would be good for some hockey romance fans but I couldn’t get into it. I didn’t like either of the main characters and couldn’t get invested in their story. Silas was way over protective and I didn’t really like Vesper at all. All of the pregnancy talk, assumptions and detail drove me crazy and all of the different kinks definitely weren’t for me. I listened to the audiobook version of this book and I do have to say the narration was well done, it was the story I didn’t like. Anyway, just because this book wasn’t for me doesn’t mean someone else wouldn’t enjoy it.
I am a huge hockey romance fans and enjoyed the first book in this series so o wanted to check this one out. This book would be good for some hockey romance fans but I couldn’t get into it. I didn’t like either of the main characters and couldn’t get invested in their story. Silas was way over protective and I didn’t really like Vesper at all. All of the pregnancy talk, assumptions and detail drove me crazy and all of the different kinks definitely weren’t for me. I listened to the audiobook version of this book and I do have to say the narration was well done, it was the story I didn’t like. Anyway, just because this book wasn’t for me doesn’t mean someone else wouldn’t enjoy it.
September 18, 2026
I think he deliberately got her pregnant, but she also agreed to unprotected sex just after leaving (again) her abusive ex. "Let's have a baby together." Then the whole 'Daddy' thing is silly. Besides being a prick, what exactly did Kane do that was abusive other than talk mean to her?
In fact, my biggest problem with the whole story is the overall juvenile attitude. For example, Drew teasing Vesper to name her wish for her ideal man not even 24 hours after another abusive experience with the ex. Granted that Vesper never told Drew all of the abusive details. I really hate when girlfriends push the whole 'get under a new man to get over the ex.'
Then Will thinking spending $500,000 on a wedding, and a $30,000 wedding gown, is ridiculous, juvenile.
Anyway, this isn't the story for me.
In fact, my biggest problem with the whole story is the overall juvenile attitude. For example, Drew teasing Vesper to name her wish for her ideal man not even 24 hours after another abusive experience with the ex. Granted that Vesper never told Drew all of the abusive details. I really hate when girlfriends push the whole 'get under a new man to get over the ex.'
Then Will thinking spending $500,000 on a wedding, and a $30,000 wedding gown, is ridiculous, juvenile.
Anyway, this isn't the story for me.
September 19, 2026
Just because you had unprotected sex once and didn’t take the morning pill doesn’t mean you are pregnant.
The pregnancy test won’t turn positive 3h after the fact.
You aren’t going to have a bump, pregancy brain or anyother pregnancy stuff at 2 weeks pregnant.
We are not even gonna mention the whole milk kink stuff. Just Ew. And again you won’t be lactating at three weeks pregnant tf.
Just it was full of stuff like this, and everything was like super fast but at the same time nothing was happening. I only stayed for the Mason lore.
The pregnancy test won’t turn positive 3h after the fact.
You aren’t going to have a bump, pregancy brain or anyother pregnancy stuff at 2 weeks pregnant.
We are not even gonna mention the whole milk kink stuff. Just Ew. And again you won’t be lactating at three weeks pregnant tf.
Just it was full of stuff like this, and everything was like super fast but at the same time nothing was happening. I only stayed for the Mason lore.
September 19, 2026
DNF at 86%
Full disclosure, I didn’t realize this was a surprise pregnancy, and that’s on me. However, I did try to give it a change because I requested the book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. There were kinks in here I couldn’t get past and it was more smut than I was comfortable with.
Thank you Hambright PR for the arc!! I truly appreciate being on your team 💕
Full disclosure, I didn’t realize this was a surprise pregnancy, and that’s on me. However, I did try to give it a change because I requested the book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t for me. There were kinks in here I couldn’t get past and it was more smut than I was comfortable with.
Thank you Hambright PR for the arc!! I truly appreciate being on your team 💕
September 5, 2026
Overall I enjoyed this book. Pro hockey player MMC with a deadbeat brother that emotionally abuses his girlfriend (FMC). MMC has got it bad for our FMC but she’s with his brother. FMC gets a clue and leaves the abusive relationship. I liked this part and I enjoyed that she didn’t want to jump into something else even though her friends seemed to push her and the MMC kept showing up and showed clear interest. I get where he’s coming from. He’s wanted/loved her for a long time but could never do anything cause she was with his brother. But like, give the girl some time to find herself and recover from the abusive relationship. One thing leads to another and our MMC asks our FMC not to take Plan B… hmm. This is where the story lost me sadly. I also get that our FMC was really attracted to the MMC but given how he felt about her, I didn’t care for how she treated their relationship since her feelings were minimal/physical attraction only.
I received an ebook and audiobook from HambrightPR and Netgalley. I was able to do an immersive read which I love doing. Though this one didn’t quite hit as I hoped it would. The audio was dual narrated by Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah. I really enjoyed both of them. They were really good. Though the sex scenes from the MMC’s POV when he was voicing the FMC were a bit rough. 4/5 for the audio, 3/5 for the story.
I received an ebook and audiobook from HambrightPR and Netgalley. I was able to do an immersive read which I love doing. Though this one didn’t quite hit as I hoped it would. The audio was dual narrated by Raven Hawkins and Tristan Josiah. I really enjoyed both of them. They were really good. Though the sex scenes from the MMC’s POV when he was voicing the FMC were a bit rough. 4/5 for the audio, 3/5 for the story.
September 19, 2026
This was the most unrealistic story I’ve ever read and I read about fae, vampires and werewolves 90% of the time. So.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I’ve loved you from afar for a very long time and now I’m waiting for your heart to catch up with mine."
What a roller coaster ride this book is!! Ladies, you are not ready for Silas.. not only is the man down BAD for his girl, but he is the definition of “If he wanted to, he would”. This is an accidental pregnancy book done right and it will melt you into a puddle by the end.
I fell in love with Silas and Vesper’s story, teased in Fair Game, and it did not disappoint! Code Violation starts with our FMC Vesper finally getting out of an abusive, toxic relationship with Kane (our MMC Silas’s half brother). Through it all, Silas has been there. Watching. Waiting. Protecting. Loving her in silence while she took his trash-fire brother back time and time again. THE PINING. THE LONGING. This man is down bad for her and when they finally get their chance to explore a spark, it’s electric!
It’s no secret that accidental pregnancy isn’t usually my jam – unless it’s written by Ruth 🙌🏻 This was such a fresh twist on the usually storyline and I LOVED IT. It’s unlike any other set up I’ve read before and when you get to it, it’ll make you feral too. It was so beautiful to witness Vesper go from surviving to being cherished by a man like Silas, slowly learning what it feels like to be loved unconditionally after everything she’s been through and reclaiming her fiery spirit. Seeing Silas step fully into caring for Vesper and their baby, while also dealing with his truly awful brother—was everything. This man would burn the world down to keep his girl & baby safe and happy.
I loved the romantic suspense-like undercurrent in Code Violation. Kane is like the cockroach that keeps coming back and it gave the whole book this perfect angsty tension keeping you on the edge of your seat.
The SPICE?! Ruth. RUTH. I think she tried to take me out with this one. The chemistry between Vesper & Silas was hot as hell and the pregnancy body worship was TO DIE FOR 🫠🔥🚒 That’s all I’ll say - just go read it.
The other thing I loved so much about this book was the way future couples were teased so masterfully through Fair Game and now Code Violation. It’s so much fun to guess who the next couples might be, witness their beginnings, banter, chemistry or struggles right from the start! It gets me so excited to keep reading the series.
If you are looking for a romance that’s sweet & angsty in all the right places, packed with “touch her and d!e” energy while still balancing a beautiful love story that will steal your heart, you’ll want to pick up Code Violation. Silas sets the bar so high for future MMCs in this series 😂 (even if I know Ruth can do it!)
Review of advance copy
Thank you to Hambright PR for this gifted ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Code Violation is such a fun and sweet hockey romance that you can totally enjoy as a standalone even though it’s book two in the series. We follow Silas, captain of the Seattle Rogues. He’s loyal, tough, and has been hiding his feelings for his brother’s girlfriend, Vesper. He promised his late mother he’d always look out for his brother Kane, but Kane is far from a good guy. He’s toxic, abusive, and doesn't deserve Vesper at all.
Vesper is the kind of girl who’s always had to fend for herself. She works at a bar, lives paycheck to paycheck, and is finally finding the courage to walk away from a bad relationship. Silas can’t help but show up for her, slowly building a connection that starts with hanging out, pizza, and movies, pretending they’re just friends. But the tension between them is impossible to ignore, and when they finally give in to their feelings, things move fast, especially when a pregnancy comes into the picture. Silas isn’t scared of what it means; he’s ready to stand up, fight for her, and keep them safe no matter what.
What I love about this book is the elements of suspense, which hooked me up instantly. Kane doesn’t let them just be happy. He's so obsessive toward Vesper, and from Vesper's perspective, we can see how this thing makes her anxious almost the whole time.
Beyond the drama and the MC's intense chemistry, this story also has a lot of deep emotion. It’s about Vesper realizing she doesn’t always have to carry everything alone and that it’s okay to let someone care about her. And Silas is the perfect MMC. He's protective, soft where it counts, and totally smitten first.
The audiobook version is amazing too. Narrators Tristan Josiah and Raven Hawkins do such a great job. Tristan makes Silas sound tough but gentle, and Raven captures Vesper’s mix of a strong, independent woman with insecurity perfectly.
All in all, this is such a satisfying read. It’s full of the good stuff: sports romance, secret pining, a hero who falls hard, and a love worth fighting for. If these tropes match your vibe, pick it up!
Code Violation is such a fun and sweet hockey romance that you can totally enjoy as a standalone even though it’s book two in the series. We follow Silas, captain of the Seattle Rogues. He’s loyal, tough, and has been hiding his feelings for his brother’s girlfriend, Vesper. He promised his late mother he’d always look out for his brother Kane, but Kane is far from a good guy. He’s toxic, abusive, and doesn't deserve Vesper at all.
Vesper is the kind of girl who’s always had to fend for herself. She works at a bar, lives paycheck to paycheck, and is finally finding the courage to walk away from a bad relationship. Silas can’t help but show up for her, slowly building a connection that starts with hanging out, pizza, and movies, pretending they’re just friends. But the tension between them is impossible to ignore, and when they finally give in to their feelings, things move fast, especially when a pregnancy comes into the picture. Silas isn’t scared of what it means; he’s ready to stand up, fight for her, and keep them safe no matter what.
What I love about this book is the elements of suspense, which hooked me up instantly. Kane doesn’t let them just be happy. He's so obsessive toward Vesper, and from Vesper's perspective, we can see how this thing makes her anxious almost the whole time.
Beyond the drama and the MC's intense chemistry, this story also has a lot of deep emotion. It’s about Vesper realizing she doesn’t always have to carry everything alone and that it’s okay to let someone care about her. And Silas is the perfect MMC. He's protective, soft where it counts, and totally smitten first.
The audiobook version is amazing too. Narrators Tristan Josiah and Raven Hawkins do such a great job. Tristan makes Silas sound tough but gentle, and Raven captures Vesper’s mix of a strong, independent woman with insecurity perfectly.
All in all, this is such a satisfying read. It’s full of the good stuff: sports romance, secret pining, a hero who falls hard, and a love worth fighting for. If these tropes match your vibe, pick it up!
September 6, 2026
THANK YOU hambright pr for gifted ARC and ALC copy in exchange for an honest review
I think I found my new favorite kind of romance because apparently hockey romance + forbidden love + family drama is exactly what I needed
I absolutely DEVOURED this audiobook.
Silas and Vesper had me from the beginning. The whole you dated the wrong brother situation was already messy enough to get my attention, but then add years of hidden feelings, accidental pregnancy, an ex who seriously needs to GO AWAY, and just enough suspense to keep me wondering what was going to happen and i could not stop listening to this book. I spent every second of my waking hours going through this exciting story!
But SILAS. This man may have officially ruined fictional men for me. He has loved Vesper for YEARS, and when he finally gets his chance, he doesn’t waste it. He is patient, protective, completely devoted to her and somehow manages to be both ridiculously sweet and hot at the same time. The way he cared for Vesper without trying to control her or rush her after everything she had been through was probably my favorite part of their relationship. Walking green flag right there!!!!!
And I really loved Vesper. There is so much more underneath the strong personality we see on the surface. Watching her slowly realize what she actually deserves and allow herself to accept the kind of love Silas has been waiting to give her made this so much more enjoyable.
I also have to mention the accidental pregnancy trope because I wasn’t expecting it to be handled quite this way. I loved that their relationship didn’t have to follow the “normal” order for it to become something real. Their situation was messy and unconventional, but somehow it worked perfectly for them.
I think that the audio book narrators did a great job in giving this book a voice and portraying each chapter with just enough depth and clarity.
Overall i enjoyed the story and the new to me genre.
I think I found my new favorite kind of romance because apparently hockey romance + forbidden love + family drama is exactly what I needed
I absolutely DEVOURED this audiobook.
Silas and Vesper had me from the beginning. The whole you dated the wrong brother situation was already messy enough to get my attention, but then add years of hidden feelings, accidental pregnancy, an ex who seriously needs to GO AWAY, and just enough suspense to keep me wondering what was going to happen and i could not stop listening to this book. I spent every second of my waking hours going through this exciting story!
But SILAS. This man may have officially ruined fictional men for me. He has loved Vesper for YEARS, and when he finally gets his chance, he doesn’t waste it. He is patient, protective, completely devoted to her and somehow manages to be both ridiculously sweet and hot at the same time. The way he cared for Vesper without trying to control her or rush her after everything she had been through was probably my favorite part of their relationship. Walking green flag right there!!!!!
And I really loved Vesper. There is so much more underneath the strong personality we see on the surface. Watching her slowly realize what she actually deserves and allow herself to accept the kind of love Silas has been waiting to give her made this so much more enjoyable.
I also have to mention the accidental pregnancy trope because I wasn’t expecting it to be handled quite this way. I loved that their relationship didn’t have to follow the “normal” order for it to become something real. Their situation was messy and unconventional, but somehow it worked perfectly for them.
I think that the audio book narrators did a great job in giving this book a voice and portraying each chapter with just enough depth and clarity.
Overall i enjoyed the story and the new to me genre.
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