What do you think?
Rate this book
Kings of Heart #4
Seal the Deal
Andrew King:
Asexual, autistic, and the eldest of four brothers, Andrew King knows exactly who he is. He’s spent his life prioritizing everyone else’s needs over his own, so agreeing to his friend's plea to be the fake boyfriend of an infamous hockey player feels like just another sacrifice, until it isn’t. He expects his perfectly ordered life to be thrown into chaos, but he’s not prepared to accidentally fall for the man who made it clear Andrew isn’t his type. But that’s fine. Andrew has years of practice hiding his own hurt and needs, and he’s sure he can survive being Nicholas Whitmore's fake boyfriend without breaking his own heart. Maybe.
Nicholas Whitmore:
Nicholas Whitmore is many things: a successful NHL player, a wealthy playboy, and a world-class asshole. When his emotionally-negligent parents request his presence to keep up appearances at a networking event disguised as his father’s birthday party, Nicholas is determined to prove he’s more than the disappointment they think he is. His plan to bring home a fake boyfriend hits a snag when Nicholas realizes neither his money or looks are enough to win Andrew over. He should hate Andrew's no-nonsense peculiarities, but Nicholas rapidly finds himself obsessed. What started as a fake relationship turns anything but when Nicholas finds, for the first time in his life, something besides hockey he’s willing to fight for.
Asexual, autistic, and the eldest of four brothers, Andrew King knows exactly who he is. He’s spent his life prioritizing everyone else’s needs over his own, so agreeing to his friend's plea to be the fake boyfriend of an infamous hockey player feels like just another sacrifice, until it isn’t. He expects his perfectly ordered life to be thrown into chaos, but he’s not prepared to accidentally fall for the man who made it clear Andrew isn’t his type. But that’s fine. Andrew has years of practice hiding his own hurt and needs, and he’s sure he can survive being Nicholas Whitmore's fake boyfriend without breaking his own heart. Maybe.
Nicholas Whitmore:
Nicholas Whitmore is many things: a successful NHL player, a wealthy playboy, and a world-class asshole. When his emotionally-negligent parents request his presence to keep up appearances at a networking event disguised as his father’s birthday party, Nicholas is determined to prove he’s more than the disappointment they think he is. His plan to bring home a fake boyfriend hits a snag when Nicholas realizes neither his money or looks are enough to win Andrew over. He should hate Andrew's no-nonsense peculiarities, but Nicholas rapidly finds himself obsessed. What started as a fake relationship turns anything but when Nicholas finds, for the first time in his life, something besides hockey he’s willing to fight for.
496 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2026
About the author
Lucky Hart
4 books281 followersLucky writes character-driven, contemporary mm romance. Her debut novel CROSS THE LINE came out in 2024, and began the series “Kings of Heart”, each featuring one of four brothers on their sometimes messy, sometimes tender paths to happy ever after. MAKE THE PLAY, coming 4.23.25 continues this series of interconnected standalones.
Lucky is a millennial who grew up on fanfic, a lifelong West Coast resident, and a Canva Pro enthusiast. Queer and neurodivergent representation is deeply important to her as a member of both communities, and she loves exploring intersectional experiences through her fiction as a writer and a reader.
When she's not writing, her favorite things include drinking coffee, walking on the beach, staying up late to finish her latest read, and filling her house with rainbows.
Lucky is a millennial who grew up on fanfic, a lifelong West Coast resident, and a Canva Pro enthusiast. Queer and neurodivergent representation is deeply important to her as a member of both communities, and she loves exploring intersectional experiences through her fiction as a writer and a reader.
When she's not writing, her favorite things include drinking coffee, walking on the beach, staying up late to finish her latest read, and filling her house with rainbows.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
May 20, 2026
On vacay may write longer review when home. (and, yes, updated a bit now that I'm home...)
Andrew is a delight, loved being in his head, love his story. Ace and autism rep. Terrific handling of his sexual needs (or non-needs) and personal needs and way of being.
Nicki I enjoyed as Nicki, but not his Nicholas side. Cliche man-ho poor little rich boy now NHL star, not interesting to me apart from his worship of Andrew. And if I had to hear any more about just how disposable and nameless all his myriad lovers were, including so many mentions during intimate moments, my eyes would have bled. But he was great with Andrew.
Fake dating refs became cringey and I never did get why it was necessary. There was no reason for them to go out in public to set anything up for his father, and then Andrew even being there at the end had no impact anyway, and it seemed overly contrived as a way to get them to date. It was also not credible that Andrew's "good friend" Amanda even put him in the situation that completely stressed him out/triggered him up front in the first place. Why on earth would she do that? It felt insensitive on her part. And she was otherwise cool.
Charlie earned my everlasting disgust with his actions with the ring at the end. What a jerk. All his “I love my twin and know him best” bs is utter crap. That was beyond uncool. Not to mention testing Nicki not once but TWICE in exactly the same way during the story. (Nothing sexual, don't worry. But it would not have surprised me.) Just 🤮. He's also criminally oblivious to how his lackadaisical attitude impacts Andrew, over and over, like he literally does not give a crap that he triggers his brother's anxiety. It was upsetting. I found him far more self-centered than even Nicholas.
Andrew's other brothers were also pretty selfish and oblivious/entitled when it came to him, and even though I loved Jason and Emerson's book best of all, I did not like Jason much here. None of the family looked good in this book. Even the parents seemed neglectful and not attuned to Andrew, especially when he was younger and they dumped responsibility on him and never got that his brain worked a bit different from their other kids. The entire family looked pretty bad in this book.
But, I maintain, Andrew is a delight and carried the book and gave me so many great feels, I truly enjoyed him as a character! Seriously, he was so strong that I could not rate less than 4 stars.
HEA. Fake dating (that didn't really seem needed, but... 🤷♀️) Totally safe for me, absolutely no OP action or drama (but nice MINE sensibility!). Way too much repetition to the point of silly about alllll the hooking up Nicholas has done. 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄 But Andrew shines, and eventually they are great together. Recommended.
Andrew is a delight, loved being in his head, love his story. Ace and autism rep. Terrific handling of his sexual needs (or non-needs) and personal needs and way of being.
Nicki I enjoyed as Nicki, but not his Nicholas side. Cliche man-ho poor little rich boy now NHL star, not interesting to me apart from his worship of Andrew. And if I had to hear any more about just how disposable and nameless all his myriad lovers were, including so many mentions during intimate moments, my eyes would have bled. But he was great with Andrew.
Fake dating refs became cringey and I never did get why it was necessary. There was no reason for them to go out in public to set anything up for his father, and then Andrew even being there at the end had no impact anyway, and it seemed overly contrived as a way to get them to date. It was also not credible that Andrew's "good friend" Amanda even put him in the situation that completely stressed him out/triggered him up front in the first place. Why on earth would she do that? It felt insensitive on her part. And she was otherwise cool.
Charlie earned my everlasting disgust with his actions with the ring at the end. What a jerk. All his “I love my twin and know him best” bs is utter crap. That was beyond uncool. Not to mention testing Nicki not once but TWICE in exactly the same way during the story. (Nothing sexual, don't worry. But it would not have surprised me.) Just 🤮. He's also criminally oblivious to how his lackadaisical attitude impacts Andrew, over and over, like he literally does not give a crap that he triggers his brother's anxiety. It was upsetting. I found him far more self-centered than even Nicholas.
Andrew's other brothers were also pretty selfish and oblivious/entitled when it came to him, and even though I loved Jason and Emerson's book best of all, I did not like Jason much here. None of the family looked good in this book. Even the parents seemed neglectful and not attuned to Andrew, especially when he was younger and they dumped responsibility on him and never got that his brain worked a bit different from their other kids. The entire family looked pretty bad in this book.
But, I maintain, Andrew is a delight and carried the book and gave me so many great feels, I truly enjoyed him as a character! Seriously, he was so strong that I could not rate less than 4 stars.
HEA. Fake dating (that didn't really seem needed, but... 🤷♀️) Totally safe for me, absolutely no OP action or drama (but nice MINE sensibility!). Way too much repetition to the point of silly about alllll the hooking up Nicholas has done. 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄 But Andrew shines, and eventually they are great together. Recommended.
May 17, 2026
4.5 stars
First of all, this book is getting extra karma points simply because it got me out of a frustrating dnf cycle. I also fully acknowledge that I am biased because of my personal connections to MC Andrew. But even without those I'd still recommend it to anyone looking for a fairly low angst opposites attract romance.
Lucky Hart is not a perfect writer and I struggle a bit with the amount of repetition in her books. But I have never read another author who so honestly captures the way it feels to experience the world as an autistic person. When I read Make the Play (second book in this series) it was almost painful to read Emerson's POV. I already live that in my own day to day, so to come home to relax and read and be confronted with those feelings again through someone else's eyes? It was validating and cathartic in a way, but also a little emotionally draining. I felt that again here with Andrew, with the additional connection of being on the ace spectrum.
Of course autistic people don't all have the exact same traits but I share an eerie number of them with both Emerson and Andrew and it felt sort of wild seeing it all spelled out where just anyone could read about it. I was diagnosed late as an adult (though I had quietly assumed for a long time) so my initial instinct when reading this was still "oh no, we don't let people see that shit!" Sigh. Masking is so ingrained I was anxious when a fictional character started to slip. I'm glad that my grey sexuality presents differently than Andrew's asexuality, because if I had seen my exact challenges laid out I would've thought Lucky Hart was living in my walls. But I do understand the anxiety of being the "atypical" partner when you've only been with allosexuals.
I don't need to wax poetic about Andrew but he does need to be protected at all costs and he is indeed out of everyone's league. I loved him and I needed so badly for him to get his HEA. He absolutely deserved to be taken care of and treated like the princess he is.
Nicki was an asshole, but I love assholes who are assholes to everyone but their LI. There were way too many references to his fuckboy past but he did deliver big time on the MINE energy so, while I hated the constant reminders of his past, it was made very clear that no one compared to Andrew for him in anyway.
As happy as I was with the characters there were still some things that irked me. Some of the things that made it easy for Nicki to be so accommodating to Andrew were simply due to his wealth. Yes, my guilty pleasure side loved seeing Andrew pampered but I do wonder if Nicki weren't so fucking rich (which in turn made so many things easy), if he could have put in as much effort. I want to say yes but it still stuck out to me. Charlie as an entire person just bugs the shit out of me. I really disliked him in his own book and, while he luckily wasn't super present in this one, he still managed to do a thing or two that just pissed me off. Eden's a fucking delight though so there was a trade off I guess.
The whole fake relationship thing was ridiculous but I appreciate that it would've been hard to get these two anywhere near each other without it. I liked how their relationship progressed, though Nicholas's switch happened somewhat abruptly to me. His possessiveness was pretty OTT but I ate that shit up anyway. I really enjoyed seeing them figure out their way into a relationship. And I love MCs who seem to fill a deep-seated need for the other, and that was definitely the case here on both sides.
I know that people (myself included) questioned how it could work between a former playboy and someone on the ace spectrum so spoilers for anyone who needs the specifics: Andrew is not sex repulsed but he hardly ever experiences sexual desire or gets hard. He finds Nicholas appealing to look at and likes touching him (intimately but not sexually), but he is not interested in pleasuring Nicholas - he doesn't want to jerk him off or blow him or fuck him. He is sometimes interested in being the one pleasured and there is one scene of Nicholas giving Andrew head and rimming him (which he liked). But when they progress to fingering and Nicholas starts to fuck him, Andrew realizes he doesn't like it and they stop. Andrew decides that he doesn't ever want to be penetrated in any way again. Andrew likes the idea of being close to Nicholas though and being the object of his desire so Nicki straddles Andrew's face and jerks himself off that way. There's also a shower scene (maybe two?) of the same thing where Nicki jerks off and comes on Andrew while Andrew touches him (not sexually). There is a lot of non sexual intimacy - plenty of cuddling and making out and touching hair and bare skin without it leading to anything.
I'm sure people question the longevity of this setup - can someone who has had as much regular sex as Nicki truly be satisfied with never again having penetrative sex and probably only very sporadically getting to perform sex acts on Andrew? Not that anybody asked me but I do think that, even removing the option of an open relationship for those of us with monogamous brains, it's possible. I'll be honest and say I'm not sure how it would work if Andrew was repulsed, but he isn't. He likes being present with Nicholas and touching him, looking at him, and I think that makes a huge difference. If they were to throw in some sex toys, I think they'd be golden. Also, pro tip - Lucky Hart has a bonus scene that you can get for signing up for her mailing list and in it there is another sex scene that gives a glimpse into some of what they do.
I admit their relationship is probably more of an idealistic/optimistic romantic fantasy than anything close to reality, but I read as an escape and I love the idea that someone like Andrew, someone like me, can find that person that they can safely be wholly themselves with, someone who doesn't want them to hide or tone themselves down or make themselves smaller or uncomfortable just to be accepted. Whether Nicholas Whitmore is real or not we deserve him.
So yes, some of the love I have for this book is probably just me feeling grateful to be seen, and some of it is a wish for people like me to find their own Nicki - but there was also great hurt/comfort caretaking scenes, possessiveness, dates that aren't dates, body worship, and plenty of other cute little romance nuggets for everyone.
Pet name: Princess (1,000x yes)
*I highlighted a truly unhinged amount of this, but to be fair half of them were just painfully accurate descriptions of feelings I share with Andrew.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None. Neither MC is interested in or with anyone else for the entirety of the book, but there were more references to Nicki's former fuckboy lifestyle than I would have liked. No details/specifics really but it got mentioned during times when I didn't want it.
First of all, this book is getting extra karma points simply because it got me out of a frustrating dnf cycle. I also fully acknowledge that I am biased because of my personal connections to MC Andrew. But even without those I'd still recommend it to anyone looking for a fairly low angst opposites attract romance.
Lucky Hart is not a perfect writer and I struggle a bit with the amount of repetition in her books. But I have never read another author who so honestly captures the way it feels to experience the world as an autistic person. When I read Make the Play (second book in this series) it was almost painful to read Emerson's POV. I already live that in my own day to day, so to come home to relax and read and be confronted with those feelings again through someone else's eyes? It was validating and cathartic in a way, but also a little emotionally draining. I felt that again here with Andrew, with the additional connection of being on the ace spectrum.
Of course autistic people don't all have the exact same traits but I share an eerie number of them with both Emerson and Andrew and it felt sort of wild seeing it all spelled out where just anyone could read about it. I was diagnosed late as an adult (though I had quietly assumed for a long time) so my initial instinct when reading this was still "oh no, we don't let people see that shit!" Sigh. Masking is so ingrained I was anxious when a fictional character started to slip. I'm glad that my grey sexuality presents differently than Andrew's asexuality, because if I had seen my exact challenges laid out I would've thought Lucky Hart was living in my walls. But I do understand the anxiety of being the "atypical" partner when you've only been with allosexuals.
I don't need to wax poetic about Andrew but he does need to be protected at all costs and he is indeed out of everyone's league. I loved him and I needed so badly for him to get his HEA. He absolutely deserved to be taken care of and treated like the princess he is.
Nicki was an asshole, but I love assholes who are assholes to everyone but their LI. There were way too many references to his fuckboy past but he did deliver big time on the MINE energy so, while I hated the constant reminders of his past, it was made very clear that no one compared to Andrew for him in anyway.
As happy as I was with the characters there were still some things that irked me. Some of the things that made it easy for Nicki to be so accommodating to Andrew were simply due to his wealth. Yes, my guilty pleasure side loved seeing Andrew pampered but I do wonder if Nicki weren't so fucking rich (which in turn made so many things easy), if he could have put in as much effort. I want to say yes but it still stuck out to me. Charlie as an entire person just bugs the shit out of me. I really disliked him in his own book and, while he luckily wasn't super present in this one, he still managed to do a thing or two that just pissed me off. Eden's a fucking delight though so there was a trade off I guess.
The whole fake relationship thing was ridiculous but I appreciate that it would've been hard to get these two anywhere near each other without it. I liked how their relationship progressed, though Nicholas's switch happened somewhat abruptly to me. His possessiveness was pretty OTT but I ate that shit up anyway. I really enjoyed seeing them figure out their way into a relationship. And I love MCs who seem to fill a deep-seated need for the other, and that was definitely the case here on both sides.
I know that people (myself included) questioned how it could work between a former playboy and someone on the ace spectrum so spoilers for anyone who needs the specifics: Andrew is not sex repulsed but he hardly ever experiences sexual desire or gets hard. He finds Nicholas appealing to look at and likes touching him (intimately but not sexually), but he is not interested in pleasuring Nicholas - he doesn't want to jerk him off or blow him or fuck him. He is sometimes interested in being the one pleasured and there is one scene of Nicholas giving Andrew head and rimming him (which he liked). But when they progress to fingering and Nicholas starts to fuck him, Andrew realizes he doesn't like it and they stop. Andrew decides that he doesn't ever want to be penetrated in any way again. Andrew likes the idea of being close to Nicholas though and being the object of his desire so Nicki straddles Andrew's face and jerks himself off that way. There's also a shower scene (maybe two?) of the same thing where Nicki jerks off and comes on Andrew while Andrew touches him (not sexually). There is a lot of non sexual intimacy - plenty of cuddling and making out and touching hair and bare skin without it leading to anything.
I'm sure people question the longevity of this setup - can someone who has had as much regular sex as Nicki truly be satisfied with never again having penetrative sex and probably only very sporadically getting to perform sex acts on Andrew? Not that anybody asked me but I do think that, even removing the option of an open relationship for those of us with monogamous brains, it's possible. I'll be honest and say I'm not sure how it would work if Andrew was repulsed, but he isn't. He likes being present with Nicholas and touching him, looking at him, and I think that makes a huge difference. If they were to throw in some sex toys, I think they'd be golden. Also, pro tip - Lucky Hart has a bonus scene that you can get for signing up for her mailing list and in it there is another sex scene that gives a glimpse into some of what they do.
I admit their relationship is probably more of an idealistic/optimistic romantic fantasy than anything close to reality, but I read as an escape and I love the idea that someone like Andrew, someone like me, can find that person that they can safely be wholly themselves with, someone who doesn't want them to hide or tone themselves down or make themselves smaller or uncomfortable just to be accepted. Whether Nicholas Whitmore is real or not we deserve him.
So yes, some of the love I have for this book is probably just me feeling grateful to be seen, and some of it is a wish for people like me to find their own Nicki - but there was also great hurt/comfort caretaking scenes, possessiveness, dates that aren't dates, body worship, and plenty of other cute little romance nuggets for everyone.
Pet name: Princess (1,000x yes)
*I highlighted a truly unhinged amount of this, but to be fair half of them were just painfully accurate descriptions of feelings I share with Andrew.
Before tonight, Andrew didn’t think anything could be worse than being set up on a blind date, but he was wrong. Being set up for a fake blind date is worse because everyone in this room knows what Andrew has long worried—that no one really wants to date him. Not only is Andrew someone’s last resort, he’s the last fake resort. It shouldn’t hurt as much as it does, but Andrew is tired of cleaning up everyone else’s messes; he’s so tired of being the last choice over and over and over.
“You’re not wasting your life because you’re playing hockey. You’re wasting your life treating people and money the same—as something disposable.” Nicholas picks a piece of lint off his pants. “What’s your point?” “That you don’t care about anyone but yourself, Nicholas. That’s no way to live.” “Why should I care about other people?” Nicholas scoffs. “I literally don’t know how to explain to you that you should care about people.” “Then why are we talking about this?” Nicholas presses. “Because while you care about no one, Andrew cares about everyone.
“I didn’t know who else to call.” “Me. You call me,” Nicholas says with force in his voice. “You’re in trouble, you call me, you got it?”
“Eyes on me, princess.”
“The real me is messy,” Andrew says, sounding unexpectedly broken. “I’m not perfect, I don’t have it all together. I’m so tired of pretending.” “Then don’t pretend with me.” Unable to resist a second longer, Nicki pulls Andrew into his arms, everything slotting into place when Andrew moves willingly into his arms. Nicki’s always loved his body, loved the attention his looks got him, the power his size afforded him on the ice, but being able to hold Andrew is the best thing his body has ever done for him. “I want you. Perfectly imperfect and mine.”
The contrast of their joined hands is stark. Andrew’s hands are smaller, more delicate, infinitely more fucking precious. For once in his life, Nicholas doesn’t want to rage, doesn’t want to break something, he wants to protect something.
“Fuck everyone else.” “See,” Andrew says, pitifully grasping at Nicholas’s shirt. “That’s what I’m talking about. I can’t say that.” “Then don’t,” Nicholas tells him, pulling Andrew closer. His body sways, like maybe the only thing holding him upright is Nicholas. “Let me be the asshole. I’m good at it. You care about the world, and I’ll care about you.”
“Don’t call me Andrew,” he demands, aware he’s whining but too miserable to care or censor himself. “No?” “No,” Andrew affirms, [.....] “Just princess?” “Mhmm,” Andrew confirms. Andrew has responsibilities. Andrew is controlled. Andrew has to mask. He doesn’t want any of that, and he doesn’t care if it’s pathetic or selfish or wrong. He doesn’t want to be anything but Nicki’s princess right now.
“Mine,” Nicki growls into his mouth. “Yours,” Andrew confirms.
“You’re mine too, Nicki.” “Yeah, princess.” Nicki kisses him again, a barely there press of lips that’s achingly gentle. “Yours.”
He can’t imagine what good thing he must’ve done in a past life to be worthy of being Andrew’s safe space.
Under Nicki’s gaze, he feels perfect. Not all the things the world told him or the things he told himself. Not broken. Not weird. Not difficult. Not hard to love. Just Andrew. Nicki’s Andrew. Nicki’s princess.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None. Neither MC is interested in or with anyone else for the entirety of the book, but there were more references to Nicki's former fuckboy lifestyle than I would have liked. No details/specifics really but it got mentioned during times when I didn't want it.
May 15, 2026
More like 3.75 but gladly rounded up.
Overall, I enjoyed this. Lucky Hart's books are truly feel-good reads, full of fun characters, fun banter, and found family (on top of real one).
I loved how Andrew and Nicholas were complete opposites and went from "I'd never be with someone like you" to "You're mine". Even though the relationship didn’t entirely convince me, I loved that Andrew finally found his person—he deserved it and everything Nicholas had to offer. Nicholas really was that large, tattooed guard dog Eden described, and I loved how he thought the world of Andrew and was totally whipped for him. Banter was fun, they had many sweet moments and the way Nicholas called Andrew “princess” 🫅🏼 (I’m always a sucker for this) and generally treated him? Loved it.
But, I do have some thoughts (surprise, surprise) 🥸
Firstly, fake dating is always a bit of a tricky trope because there’s usually no logical reason for it—and that’s pretty much the case here, too. But it was a good foundation for the story of Andrew and Nicholas.
Second, yeah, the book is mostly about Andrew and Nicholas, but a really big part of Andrew and his story was his role and the relationship with his family, especially his brothers. I would have liked this book to focus more on that and for them to have really addressed how Andrew has always felt and how/why he has struggled -they only talked about it briefly in a couple of sentences. And once again, I was left wanting more moments between Andrew and Charlie—here, the brothers felt more like really distant supporting characters.
Third, the writing was a bit repetitive at times; certain words, phrases, etc., were repeated too many times. The internal monologues were also a bit tedious in some places.
And fourth—and this isn't so much about the quality of the book—but I'm not entirely convinced by Andrew and Nicki's relationship. Call me cynical, but it was just too good to be true. It was mentioned several times that Nicholas has always been quite sexual (seeking casual hook ups or one night stands), he was constantly turned on by Andrew’s presence, and he was eager and clearly wanted to have sex. The way he was described made it hard to believe he was willing to give up sex entirely. But the fact that he was so understanding and ready to let that part go was, of course, wonderful for Andrew. But maybe Nicholas could have been described being more towards ace, too?
💜🧃
When Nicholas doesn’t immediately follow, he takes a step towards the exit.
”Come.”
”I’m not a dog.”
“Be a good boy and come.”
”Fuck you, princess.”
”You wish,” Andrew grins, turning and walking to the door.
Nicholas is not going to follow.
Nicholas is not a good boy.
”Nicki.”
”Coming,” Nicholas grunts. Fuck.
”I sure as shit don’t deserve you, but let me try. Let me learn to be the kind of man who deserves you.”
”You say that like I’m out of your league.”
“You are out of everyone’s fucking league.”
”That’s right. You’re mine, and I take care of what’s mine. Your only job tonight is to look at me. Focus on me. Moan for me.”
”Bossy.”
“You want to be in charge?”
”No, thank you.”
“What a polite princess. Now lay that gorgeous head of yours down on the pillow and open your legs.”
“Nicki.”
“Yes, princess?”
”I’m ready to feel good.”
Overall, I enjoyed this. Lucky Hart's books are truly feel-good reads, full of fun characters, fun banter, and found family (on top of real one).
I loved how Andrew and Nicholas were complete opposites and went from "I'd never be with someone like you" to "You're mine". Even though the relationship didn’t entirely convince me, I loved that Andrew finally found his person—he deserved it and everything Nicholas had to offer. Nicholas really was that large, tattooed guard dog Eden described, and I loved how he thought the world of Andrew and was totally whipped for him. Banter was fun, they had many sweet moments and the way Nicholas called Andrew “princess” 🫅🏼 (I’m always a sucker for this) and generally treated him? Loved it.
But, I do have some thoughts (surprise, surprise) 🥸
Firstly, fake dating is always a bit of a tricky trope because there’s usually no logical reason for it—and that’s pretty much the case here, too. But it was a good foundation for the story of Andrew and Nicholas.
Second, yeah, the book is mostly about Andrew and Nicholas, but a really big part of Andrew and his story was his role and the relationship with his family, especially his brothers. I would have liked this book to focus more on that and for them to have really addressed how Andrew has always felt and how/why he has struggled -they only talked about it briefly in a couple of sentences. And once again, I was left wanting more moments between Andrew and Charlie—here, the brothers felt more like really distant supporting characters.
Third, the writing was a bit repetitive at times; certain words, phrases, etc., were repeated too many times. The internal monologues were also a bit tedious in some places.
And fourth—and this isn't so much about the quality of the book—but I'm not entirely convinced by Andrew and Nicki's relationship. Call me cynical, but it was just too good to be true. It was mentioned several times that Nicholas has always been quite sexual (seeking casual hook ups or one night stands), he was constantly turned on by Andrew’s presence, and he was eager and clearly wanted to have sex. The way he was described made it hard to believe he was willing to give up sex entirely. But the fact that he was so understanding and ready to let that part go was, of course, wonderful for Andrew. But maybe Nicholas could have been described being more towards ace, too?
💜🧃
When Nicholas doesn’t immediately follow, he takes a step towards the exit.
”Come.”
”I’m not a dog.”
“Be a good boy and come.”
”Fuck you, princess.”
”You wish,” Andrew grins, turning and walking to the door.
Nicholas is not going to follow.
Nicholas is not a good boy.
”Nicki.”
”Coming,” Nicholas grunts. Fuck.
”I sure as shit don’t deserve you, but let me try. Let me learn to be the kind of man who deserves you.”
”You say that like I’m out of your league.”
“You are out of everyone’s fucking league.”
”That’s right. You’re mine, and I take care of what’s mine. Your only job tonight is to look at me. Focus on me. Moan for me.”
”Bossy.”
“You want to be in charge?”
”No, thank you.”
“What a polite princess. Now lay that gorgeous head of yours down on the pillow and open your legs.”
“Nicki.”
“Yes, princess?”
”I’m ready to feel good.”
May 26, 2026
8/10 Мій милий милий Ендрю🥰 Читати всім старшим сестрам🙂 нижче напишу заради чого. Проте маю попередити вас про раптових побічних російських персонажів🫠 якщо вас теж тригерить таке
Взагалі ще бали я зняла через те, що в останній частині книги мені чомусь не вірилось в цю казку і це відношення. Я наче виринула і не змогла пірнути знов ніяк…
Так от заради чого «In fact, the idea of finally letting someone in to see every shadowed, tired part of Andrew feels like being allowed to breathe after a lifetime ofholding his breath.»
Взагалі ще бали я зняла через те, що в останній частині книги мені чомусь не вірилось в цю казку і це відношення. Я наче виринула і не змогла пірнути знов ніяк…
Так от заради чого «In fact, the idea of finally letting someone in to see every shadowed, tired part of Andrew feels like being allowed to breathe after a lifetime ofholding his breath.»
May 24, 2026
I lovedddd this book! I enjoyed the ace representation in this book as someone who is on the ace spectrum myself. Seeing Andrew being so unapologetically himself, it just really made me feel validated 😭 he’s sooo oldest sibling-people pleaser suffering in silence making sure everyone else is taken care of while neglecting his own emotional needs. I can relate to him so much (I definitely cried a few times reading his inner thoughts that I’ve also had).
Nicki was perfect for Andrew & so protective of him. He was a lil bit of an asshole in the beginning but grew so much over the course of the book. I loved their non-sexual intimacy-the forehead kisses, cuddles & just everything about them. Nicki never pushed Andrew for anything and always always respected his boundaries and listened to him especially in the bedroom. Their banter and teasing made me laugh a lot throughout the book. I love how Nicki loves Andrew, loud & proud, and how he saw straight through Andrew’s mask from the start when his own family never even noticed. I also loved how Andrew stood up for him after meeting Nicki’s shitty parents. I loved how Andrew’s parents treated him better than his own parents after meeting him once 🥹
I also liked seeing that Andrew got closer friends with Eden as well, I feel like they both really needed each other. I loved that all the siblings partners (& Addy and Ella) were close with everyone too, I love a lil found family. But also, why was Charlie annoying as hell in this book too? Like I’m sorry, but the whole pretending to be Andrew trying to trick Nicki & stealing the fucking ring from Nicki? Be so for real.
Some things to expect:
🌟fake dating (even tho it was fake for like 2 seconds🤪)
💜ace representation (done well might I add)
🌟autistic MC
💜slow burn
🌟no 3rd act breakup (thank u)
💜eldest brother problems
Fav parts:
It’s so exhausting caring what everyone thinks. It’s exhausting being what everyone needs. It takes so much energy being everything to everyone all the fucking time.
“You listen to me, Andrew King.” Nicki grabs his jaw, not hard but gentle, his face tipped enough to look directly into Nicki’s eyes. “Nothing about you is a disappointment.” One sentence, a million insecurities soothed. Andrew’s biggest fear in life has always been disappointing people. His parents. His brothers. His friends. Romantic partners. His boss. Everyone. Trying to be perfect all the damn time left Andrew exhausted and on high alert constantly.
You’re it for me, too. I love you, Nicki. It should terrify me. It’s unexpected and unplanned and impulsive, but you’re the best thing to ever happen to me, and I’m not going to question it. I’m going to hold onto it, hold onto you. Because you’re worth everything, Nicki. You make me so happy.”
Nicki was perfect for Andrew & so protective of him. He was a lil bit of an asshole in the beginning but grew so much over the course of the book. I loved their non-sexual intimacy-the forehead kisses, cuddles & just everything about them. Nicki never pushed Andrew for anything and always always respected his boundaries and listened to him especially in the bedroom. Their banter and teasing made me laugh a lot throughout the book. I love how Nicki loves Andrew, loud & proud, and how he saw straight through Andrew’s mask from the start when his own family never even noticed. I also loved how Andrew stood up for him after meeting Nicki’s shitty parents. I loved how Andrew’s parents treated him better than his own parents after meeting him once 🥹
I also liked seeing that Andrew got closer friends with Eden as well, I feel like they both really needed each other. I loved that all the siblings partners (& Addy and Ella) were close with everyone too, I love a lil found family. But also, why was Charlie annoying as hell in this book too? Like I’m sorry, but the whole pretending to be Andrew trying to trick Nicki & stealing the fucking ring from Nicki? Be so for real.
Some things to expect:
🌟fake dating (even tho it was fake for like 2 seconds🤪)
💜ace representation (done well might I add)
🌟autistic MC
💜slow burn
🌟no 3rd act breakup (thank u)
💜eldest brother problems
Fav parts:
It’s so exhausting caring what everyone thinks. It’s exhausting being what everyone needs. It takes so much energy being everything to everyone all the fucking time.
“You listen to me, Andrew King.” Nicki grabs his jaw, not hard but gentle, his face tipped enough to look directly into Nicki’s eyes. “Nothing about you is a disappointment.” One sentence, a million insecurities soothed. Andrew’s biggest fear in life has always been disappointing people. His parents. His brothers. His friends. Romantic partners. His boss. Everyone. Trying to be perfect all the damn time left Andrew exhausted and on high alert constantly.
You’re it for me, too. I love you, Nicki. It should terrify me. It’s unexpected and unplanned and impulsive, but you’re the best thing to ever happen to me, and I’m not going to question it. I’m going to hold onto it, hold onto you. Because you’re worth everything, Nicki. You make me so happy.”
May 24, 2026
4.5 stars
Beautiful story. I read this all with a smile on my face. It was just a touch unbelievable. This was WORLDS better than Charlie’s book imo. On par with the first two.
Beautiful story. I read this all with a smile on my face. It was just a touch unbelievable. This was WORLDS better than Charlie’s book imo. On par with the first two.
May 8, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book!!
Where to begin? We’ve got a fake dating to lovers story, where one of the MCs is a hockey player (but it’s not really a hockey romance, as the sport takes a bit of a backseat—it enables some really great moments between Nicki and Andrew, but the sport itself isn’t what’s important in this book, and you can absolutely read it without knowing anything about the sport), the other is an accountant for the franchise, but they’ve never met before the start of this story. Fake dating turns to forced proximity for safety reasons and then feelings occur and we get a beautiful love story!!
I loved loved LOVED the possessiveness, “mine”, “princess”, the stimming with the hair and the tattoos… all of it. The characters were so good for each other, and I adored how safe Nicki made Andrew feel almost from the start, and how he was able to see through Andrew’s masking and “I’m fine” when he clearly wasn’t and get him to open up about things. Their communication about Andrew being ace and what that means for him when it comes to relationships and intimacy were excellent and I hope every ace person on the planet (who wants a relationship) finds someone who treats them as respectfully as Nicki treated Andrew, making him feel desired but not pressured or lacking in any way for wanting what he wanted and not wanting other things.
This is the fourth (and I think final?) book in a series of stand-alones. I have not read the other books, and I didn’t feel like that impacted my enjoyment in any way, but I did get curious about Andrew’s brothers and their partners, so I’d definitely be interested in reading their books sometime later!
The story feels kind of slow-burn, because it’s 470 pages long and the animosity doesn’t turn into real feelings/declarations for a whiiiile—but the timespan in the book is only a few weeks, and the characters do talk about whether some things are “too soon” because of that, sooo… make of that what you will! 😊
The story is told in third person, with both Andrew’s and Nicki’s perspectives, which is indicated at the start of each chapter.
The epilogue was absolutely beautiful, and I loved how Andrew’s family is so involved. I adored his parents as well, and almost teared up alongside Nicki when they proved to be the complete opposites of Nicki’s own parents, immediately welcoming him into the family 🥰
IN SUMMARY:
💜 Grumpy, selfish hockey player / people pleaser accountant
💜 Fake dating
💜 Possessive MC
💜 Hurt/comfort - both ways
💜 Non-sexual intimacy
💜 Ace rep
💜 Autism rep
💜 Overprotective family vs absentee parents
💜 HEA
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Where to begin? We’ve got a fake dating to lovers story, where one of the MCs is a hockey player (but it’s not really a hockey romance, as the sport takes a bit of a backseat—it enables some really great moments between Nicki and Andrew, but the sport itself isn’t what’s important in this book, and you can absolutely read it without knowing anything about the sport), the other is an accountant for the franchise, but they’ve never met before the start of this story. Fake dating turns to forced proximity for safety reasons and then feelings occur and we get a beautiful love story!!
I loved loved LOVED the possessiveness, “mine”, “princess”, the stimming with the hair and the tattoos… all of it. The characters were so good for each other, and I adored how safe Nicki made Andrew feel almost from the start, and how he was able to see through Andrew’s masking and “I’m fine” when he clearly wasn’t and get him to open up about things. Their communication about Andrew being ace and what that means for him when it comes to relationships and intimacy were excellent and I hope every ace person on the planet (who wants a relationship) finds someone who treats them as respectfully as Nicki treated Andrew, making him feel desired but not pressured or lacking in any way for wanting what he wanted and not wanting other things.
This is the fourth (and I think final?) book in a series of stand-alones. I have not read the other books, and I didn’t feel like that impacted my enjoyment in any way, but I did get curious about Andrew’s brothers and their partners, so I’d definitely be interested in reading their books sometime later!
The story feels kind of slow-burn, because it’s 470 pages long and the animosity doesn’t turn into real feelings/declarations for a whiiiile—but the timespan in the book is only a few weeks, and the characters do talk about whether some things are “too soon” because of that, sooo… make of that what you will! 😊
The story is told in third person, with both Andrew’s and Nicki’s perspectives, which is indicated at the start of each chapter.
The epilogue was absolutely beautiful, and I loved how Andrew’s family is so involved. I adored his parents as well, and almost teared up alongside Nicki when they proved to be the complete opposites of Nicki’s own parents, immediately welcoming him into the family 🥰
IN SUMMARY:
💜 Grumpy, selfish hockey player / people pleaser accountant
💜 Fake dating
💜 Possessive MC
💜 Hurt/comfort - both ways
💜 Non-sexual intimacy
💜 Ace rep
💜 Autism rep
💜 Overprotective family vs absentee parents
💜 HEA
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 16, 2026
I was so excited for Andrew's story. Neurodiverse characters are some of my favorite MCs and I loved the snippets we got of him in the other books.
The first half of this book was great. I probably highlighted 90% of it. The banter. The way Andrew finally found someone he could be his true self with and feel safe, protected and wanted. It also worked out for Nicki, as he finally had someone who would give him his full attention. He had never had that before.
They were great together. They both felt un-date-able for different reasons and finally found "their person". They filled something in each other that no one else could.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book fell apart for me. Once they got together, it left the realm of being sweet and entered in to sappy territory. All these two could think about was each other. The only focus on the 'Brute' and his 'Princess' got a bit repetitive. Their relationship had already progressed and it didn't really go anywhere else.
I love character-based stories, but this is one instance where I think having a bit more hockey or some other storyline may have helped. This book was too long for the focus to be just them with little-to-no angst. I heavily skimmed the last 25% of the book. Had it been edited down, I think it would have worked better.
I loved them as a couple though and I'm glad that Lucky explores different relationship dynamics. The caretaking and consent in this book were top notch.
Also, here's to: Home Clothes, Khakis & Polos & Custom Jerseys
Nicknames / Endearments: Nicki, Princess, Brute
The first half of this book was great. I probably highlighted 90% of it. The banter. The way Andrew finally found someone he could be his true self with and feel safe, protected and wanted. It also worked out for Nicki, as he finally had someone who would give him his full attention. He had never had that before.
They were great together. They both felt un-date-able for different reasons and finally found "their person". They filled something in each other that no one else could.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book fell apart for me. Once they got together, it left the realm of being sweet and entered in to sappy territory. All these two could think about was each other. The only focus on the 'Brute' and his 'Princess' got a bit repetitive. Their relationship had already progressed and it didn't really go anywhere else.
I love character-based stories, but this is one instance where I think having a bit more hockey or some other storyline may have helped. This book was too long for the focus to be just them with little-to-no angst. I heavily skimmed the last 25% of the book. Had it been edited down, I think it would have worked better.
I loved them as a couple though and I'm glad that Lucky explores different relationship dynamics. The caretaking and consent in this book were top notch.
Also, here's to: Home Clothes, Khakis & Polos & Custom Jerseys
Nicknames / Endearments: Nicki, Princess, Brute
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lucky Hart has done it again! Andew and Nicki have stolen my heart. I see so much of myself in Andrew as a self-diagnosed Autistic early 30's adult. I've been rooting for Andrew since the beginning and I'm so glad he got his happy ever after with Nicki. Nicki is an acquired taste, but it's not all his fault. Give him a chance and you'll see he's not as bad as he makes himself seem.
I already need a reread of this series - thankfully the audiobooks are coming out this year!
I cannot stop thinking about their story and I have so many feelings. I'm so thankful to have their story, but I'm also sad to be leaving the King brothers as this is the last of their books. I cannot wait to see what Lucky graces us with next!
I already need a reread of this series - thankfully the audiobooks are coming out this year!
I cannot stop thinking about their story and I have so many feelings. I'm so thankful to have their story, but I'm also sad to be leaving the King brothers as this is the last of their books. I cannot wait to see what Lucky graces us with next!
May 27, 2026
There were things I didn’t like (it was repetitive and some of Nikki’s dialogue bordered on childish) but the things I did like..I liked a lot. So overall it was cute.
June 9, 2026
“Loving Nicki is quiet, and for a man like Andrew whose brain never stops, it’s a welcome relief to find solace in another person. Nicki loves all of Andrew and that is steadying—his love there even when Andrew can’t touch it or see it. A place to return to. A safe haven. Home.”
Seal The Deal is easily my favourite book of 2026 and, possibly, all time.
I know, I know, big praise; but honestly, I’ve never felt so seen and validated by more than one character in a book at the same time as feeling seen and understood by the author. In this borderline-essay review I will… just kidding.
No I’m not. Strap in.
This review is going to be quite personal because the book feels personal to me, and I believe that to grasp the nuance of the story is to understand a little bit of yourself.
Lucky Hart hasn’t just given me characters that I see myself in, they’ve reignited a spark of hope for my own life that was all but snuffed out. And I know, its fiction, but Andrew and Nicky’s journey to complete emotional understating healed something in my lonely, Autistic little heart - that little part of me that always thought my Autism and OCD would be the reason I missed out on a relationship that understands me on the deepest level.
I said it about Make The Play and I’ll say it again: I’ve never felt so seen by a character, a story, an author. Lucky has given me a comfort novel and a comfort character that I know I’ll come back to time and time again when I’m sad or lonely or just need to be reminded that I’m not too much. In fact, I’ve read it twice already and when I was reading I highlighted at least 99% of the book and 10 pins was not enough.
Seal The Deal is, for me, a love letter to neurodivergence. I think a lot of this book is centred around how often people find neurodivergence “too much” or find us “too picky” and “too difficult” when, in fact, all we’re asking is to be listened to and have our basic needs met. Andrew is so used to putting other people in his life first, that his own needs and differences are constantly overlooked. He hides himself from everyone, including his own family, because he wants to be see as capable rather than “too much.” And that broke my heart. He and I are so similar and it was really, really hard to see my own behaviours printed in black and white. But it was also really freeing to see Nicky take the time to understand what Andrew needs, and just as importantly, what he wants. Because neurodivergent characters and people don’t exist in a needs-only bubble, we also have wants just like everyone else – and to have those wants accommodated and celebrated by Nicky was wonderful And what I really loved about Nicky was that he never felt like he was going out of his way or putting in extra effort to make Andrew feel safe and loved, he was just so attuned to Andrew that he knew what he needed and asked when he didn’t so he could provide accordingly. He made it seem so simple, so easy to love someone whose brain works a little differently to his own, and I adored that.
I see the phrase “to be loved is to be seen” splashed around a lot, but it wasn’t until I read this book that I realised just how true it is. The love, understanding, and raw emotional honesty between Andrew and Nicky exists because Andrew doesn’t hide or shrink himself and his Autistic traits or his minor OCD compulsions when he’s with Nicky, and Nicky doesn’t dismiss or minimise any of Andrew’s needs. They might have started out as a fake couple, but as Nicky makes himself vulnerable to Andrew, when vulnerability is the one thing ghat really terrifies him, and Andrew takes his brash, deflective personality in stride and loves him for it even when it’s too much for other people to handle, they both realise how easily they fit together. Fake dating soon becomes friends, becomes lovers. And the progression felt so natural and authentic.
So I guess they’re right – to be loved really is to be seen.
I have seen little bits of myself in each character in Lucky’s books, but Andrew’s defeated longing for someone to accept and love him romantically, just as he is, completely flayed me open. It made me feel exposed, but so damn seen.
“I am a blob, Nicki. I am a comfortable blob. I took a thirty minute shower hot enough to strip away the entire long ass day, and then I put on my home clothes, which means I am only fifty percent human.” I had to sit with that quote for a little while because it is literally how I think of myself. I know its just a lighthearted comment, but blob feels like a pretty good descriptor some days.
I resonated with Andrew’s life experiences so firmly it was almost scary. I thought Emerson (Make The Play) and I had everything in common, but there’s so much of Andrew I could relate to. It reminded me that neurodivergence, and specifically Autism in this case, is multifaceted, and we don’t fit into a box. We have so many different experiences it’s impossible to pidgeon-hole us into one label.
But at the same time Andrew is not defined by his Autism. As someone with diagnosed Autism, I am so aware of how that diagnosis changes your life irrevocably and can make you feel almost confined at times. So I respect Andrew’s choice not to get a diagnosis when it’s clear enough to Andrew and clear to the reader that he has ASD. He has made the choice not to be diagnosed and I think that’s a really important part of who he is. He chooses to be defined by his own choices and live his life on his own terms – and the strength that takes is enormous. Which also makes it easy to understand why Andrew is always so exhausted. Masking, taking care of the people in your life, and just trying to survive each day is goddamn exhausting both mentally and physically, and poor Andrew never gets a break. He’s always “on”, always two steps ahead just to keep his head above water, so when he meets Nicky and suddenly starts getting both his needs and wants met by the prickly black cat of a man, he doesn’t know how to handle it. Reading between the lines it seemed like Andrew only ever got to rest properly when he was poorly and he ends up getting sick not long into is fake relationship with Nicky. And while most readers probably saw that as a good way for Nicky to be able to caretake and dote on him, I saw that as Autistic burnout meets “letting go” - which might not be correct, but it looked a lot to me like he suddenly felt so safe, so taken care of, that his body thought “awesome, time for a rest. Let someone else take the reins” and so his body rested in the only way it knows how. All that is to say that Nicky’s steady presence and unwavering care (evident even when he tries to pretend he’s indifferent because he sucks at masking his feelings around Andrew) meant that after thirty-odd years, Andrew could finally let himself relax. And if you’re neurodivergent, or love someone who is, you’ll know how rare it is to find someone who you can 100% be yourself with and let go around without fear of judgement or shame.
And speaking of judgement and shame, the way Asexuality is handled in this story without an ounce of judgement or shaming from Nicky is really beautiful. Andrew is quite hard on himself when it comes to asserting what he likes and dislikes sexually, and it was lovely to watch him breathe and just enjoy each moment with Nicky without the pressure of sexual expectations, because Nicky truly doesn’t have any expectations in the bedroom. He’s happy to be with Andrew in literally any capacity or sexual scenario and I adored that. Nicky is described as having been a self-centred playboy (I’m embellishing) prior to meeting Andrew, so it was almost unnerving to see him settle down in a relationship that was so opposite to his past sexual escapades. As beautiful as it was so see someone understand Andrew’s ASD and Asexuality, it also scared me because it’s so very rare to see a character do a complete 180 and settle in a relationship with a completely different sexual dynamic to what he’s used to. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and for him to change his mind, and then I remembered that this is Nicky and Andrew we’re talking about here. They met as a blind set-up and jumped straight into fake-dating before they even got to know each other. Nothing about them is conventional or as I’ve come to expect from real life. And Lucky Hart would never, ever do us dirty like that. This story is about Queer joy in whatever form it takes, and I could breathe a little easier knowing that Andrew and Nicky could finally be their authentic selves around each other.
Honestly, I could wax poetic about Seal The Deal, Andrew, and Nicky all day long if you let me, but a borderline essay-length review will have to do for now. And I don’t think Hart will ever read this, but if they do, thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating characters that give me hope and stories that remind me that nothing is meaningless – everything will happen when it’s supposed to.
Seal The Deal was a five star read for me and I genuinely look forward to reading and crying over more of Lucky Hart’s work. If you want to scream about this book with me, please know my messages and Insta DM’s are always open!!
Seal The Deal is easily my favourite book of 2026 and, possibly, all time.
I know, I know, big praise; but honestly, I’ve never felt so seen and validated by more than one character in a book at the same time as feeling seen and understood by the author. In this borderline-essay review I will… just kidding.
No I’m not. Strap in.
This review is going to be quite personal because the book feels personal to me, and I believe that to grasp the nuance of the story is to understand a little bit of yourself.
Lucky Hart hasn’t just given me characters that I see myself in, they’ve reignited a spark of hope for my own life that was all but snuffed out. And I know, its fiction, but Andrew and Nicky’s journey to complete emotional understating healed something in my lonely, Autistic little heart - that little part of me that always thought my Autism and OCD would be the reason I missed out on a relationship that understands me on the deepest level.
I said it about Make The Play and I’ll say it again: I’ve never felt so seen by a character, a story, an author. Lucky has given me a comfort novel and a comfort character that I know I’ll come back to time and time again when I’m sad or lonely or just need to be reminded that I’m not too much. In fact, I’ve read it twice already and when I was reading I highlighted at least 99% of the book and 10 pins was not enough.
Seal The Deal is, for me, a love letter to neurodivergence. I think a lot of this book is centred around how often people find neurodivergence “too much” or find us “too picky” and “too difficult” when, in fact, all we’re asking is to be listened to and have our basic needs met. Andrew is so used to putting other people in his life first, that his own needs and differences are constantly overlooked. He hides himself from everyone, including his own family, because he wants to be see as capable rather than “too much.” And that broke my heart. He and I are so similar and it was really, really hard to see my own behaviours printed in black and white. But it was also really freeing to see Nicky take the time to understand what Andrew needs, and just as importantly, what he wants. Because neurodivergent characters and people don’t exist in a needs-only bubble, we also have wants just like everyone else – and to have those wants accommodated and celebrated by Nicky was wonderful And what I really loved about Nicky was that he never felt like he was going out of his way or putting in extra effort to make Andrew feel safe and loved, he was just so attuned to Andrew that he knew what he needed and asked when he didn’t so he could provide accordingly. He made it seem so simple, so easy to love someone whose brain works a little differently to his own, and I adored that.
I see the phrase “to be loved is to be seen” splashed around a lot, but it wasn’t until I read this book that I realised just how true it is. The love, understanding, and raw emotional honesty between Andrew and Nicky exists because Andrew doesn’t hide or shrink himself and his Autistic traits or his minor OCD compulsions when he’s with Nicky, and Nicky doesn’t dismiss or minimise any of Andrew’s needs. They might have started out as a fake couple, but as Nicky makes himself vulnerable to Andrew, when vulnerability is the one thing ghat really terrifies him, and Andrew takes his brash, deflective personality in stride and loves him for it even when it’s too much for other people to handle, they both realise how easily they fit together. Fake dating soon becomes friends, becomes lovers. And the progression felt so natural and authentic.
So I guess they’re right – to be loved really is to be seen.
I have seen little bits of myself in each character in Lucky’s books, but Andrew’s defeated longing for someone to accept and love him romantically, just as he is, completely flayed me open. It made me feel exposed, but so damn seen.
“I am a blob, Nicki. I am a comfortable blob. I took a thirty minute shower hot enough to strip away the entire long ass day, and then I put on my home clothes, which means I am only fifty percent human.” I had to sit with that quote for a little while because it is literally how I think of myself. I know its just a lighthearted comment, but blob feels like a pretty good descriptor some days.
I resonated with Andrew’s life experiences so firmly it was almost scary. I thought Emerson (Make The Play) and I had everything in common, but there’s so much of Andrew I could relate to. It reminded me that neurodivergence, and specifically Autism in this case, is multifaceted, and we don’t fit into a box. We have so many different experiences it’s impossible to pidgeon-hole us into one label.
But at the same time Andrew is not defined by his Autism. As someone with diagnosed Autism, I am so aware of how that diagnosis changes your life irrevocably and can make you feel almost confined at times. So I respect Andrew’s choice not to get a diagnosis when it’s clear enough to Andrew and clear to the reader that he has ASD. He has made the choice not to be diagnosed and I think that’s a really important part of who he is. He chooses to be defined by his own choices and live his life on his own terms – and the strength that takes is enormous. Which also makes it easy to understand why Andrew is always so exhausted. Masking, taking care of the people in your life, and just trying to survive each day is goddamn exhausting both mentally and physically, and poor Andrew never gets a break. He’s always “on”, always two steps ahead just to keep his head above water, so when he meets Nicky and suddenly starts getting both his needs and wants met by the prickly black cat of a man, he doesn’t know how to handle it. Reading between the lines it seemed like Andrew only ever got to rest properly when he was poorly and he ends up getting sick not long into is fake relationship with Nicky. And while most readers probably saw that as a good way for Nicky to be able to caretake and dote on him, I saw that as Autistic burnout meets “letting go” - which might not be correct, but it looked a lot to me like he suddenly felt so safe, so taken care of, that his body thought “awesome, time for a rest. Let someone else take the reins” and so his body rested in the only way it knows how. All that is to say that Nicky’s steady presence and unwavering care (evident even when he tries to pretend he’s indifferent because he sucks at masking his feelings around Andrew) meant that after thirty-odd years, Andrew could finally let himself relax. And if you’re neurodivergent, or love someone who is, you’ll know how rare it is to find someone who you can 100% be yourself with and let go around without fear of judgement or shame.
And speaking of judgement and shame, the way Asexuality is handled in this story without an ounce of judgement or shaming from Nicky is really beautiful. Andrew is quite hard on himself when it comes to asserting what he likes and dislikes sexually, and it was lovely to watch him breathe and just enjoy each moment with Nicky without the pressure of sexual expectations, because Nicky truly doesn’t have any expectations in the bedroom. He’s happy to be with Andrew in literally any capacity or sexual scenario and I adored that. Nicky is described as having been a self-centred playboy (I’m embellishing) prior to meeting Andrew, so it was almost unnerving to see him settle down in a relationship that was so opposite to his past sexual escapades. As beautiful as it was so see someone understand Andrew’s ASD and Asexuality, it also scared me because it’s so very rare to see a character do a complete 180 and settle in a relationship with a completely different sexual dynamic to what he’s used to. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and for him to change his mind, and then I remembered that this is Nicky and Andrew we’re talking about here. They met as a blind set-up and jumped straight into fake-dating before they even got to know each other. Nothing about them is conventional or as I’ve come to expect from real life. And Lucky Hart would never, ever do us dirty like that. This story is about Queer joy in whatever form it takes, and I could breathe a little easier knowing that Andrew and Nicky could finally be their authentic selves around each other.
Honestly, I could wax poetic about Seal The Deal, Andrew, and Nicky all day long if you let me, but a borderline essay-length review will have to do for now. And I don’t think Hart will ever read this, but if they do, thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating characters that give me hope and stories that remind me that nothing is meaningless – everything will happen when it’s supposed to.
Seal The Deal was a five star read for me and I genuinely look forward to reading and crying over more of Lucky Hart’s work. If you want to scream about this book with me, please know my messages and Insta DM’s are always open!!
June 24, 2026
I'll admit, I went in a bit worried how much I'd like Andrew and Nicki, given that I adore how absolutely sweet and perfect Emmy and Jason were in "Make the Play". After having read "Cross the Line" and skimming "Break the Rule", I knew that Lucky is amazing at making each story feel very different when compared to each other, but the reality of the situation is that I'm not a superfan of each flavor of story. I knew that this one would feel unique, with much more snark and jabby banter because of the main couple.
I needn't have worried.
The queer and neurodivergent joy I loved from Emmy and Jason's story was fully present and front & center. Even though Andrew and Nicki start with impossibly high emotional walls, the honesty of their communication meant everything. The buildup of established trust and personal attention they give each other (particularly Nicki giving to Andrew) was an absolute feast for my heart. Despite the frankly insane amount of swearing, the toe-to-toe "fuck you's" very quickly lost their heat and gave way to laying out feelings that both of them understood perfectly.
Seeing Andrew let himself be "selfish" and relax while Nicki spoiled him...and the both of them creating a home for each other...the tender vibes of this story match how much I loved "Make the Play". This book gave me all of the fuzzy feelings I had hoped for. I could go on and on about how awesome this book is, but I wouldn't want to take away from how emotionally satisfying this is by merely summarizing stuff poorly.
What I'd have appreciated was more of a contrite reckoning for the rest of the King brothers (Not the boyfriends. Eden, Emmy, and Theo were perfect.) and maybe their parents. Charlie is an obnoxious manchild, and I don't think anything really changed there, Alec still makes big scenes that everyone just kind of excuses and cooks, and Jason is largely absent. I had hoped for a turning point in the King family's unity. I wanted a knock-out-drag-out confrontation early enough in the story that they had time to start showing Andrew attention and appreciation. Everything turned out nicely for everyone separately, but as the supposed ending of a truly memorable series...I just wanted a bit more.
All things considered, I really enjoyed the end of this series. This one was a very solid 9/10 stars, rounded up because the King boyfriends are amazing and I love them dearly.
I needn't have worried.
The queer and neurodivergent joy I loved from Emmy and Jason's story was fully present and front & center. Even though Andrew and Nicki start with impossibly high emotional walls, the honesty of their communication meant everything. The buildup of established trust and personal attention they give each other (particularly Nicki giving to Andrew) was an absolute feast for my heart. Despite the frankly insane amount of swearing, the toe-to-toe "fuck you's" very quickly lost their heat and gave way to laying out feelings that both of them understood perfectly.
Seeing Andrew let himself be "selfish" and relax while Nicki spoiled him...and the both of them creating a home for each other...the tender vibes of this story match how much I loved "Make the Play". This book gave me all of the fuzzy feelings I had hoped for. I could go on and on about how awesome this book is, but I wouldn't want to take away from how emotionally satisfying this is by merely summarizing stuff poorly.
What I'd have appreciated was more of a contrite reckoning for the rest of the King brothers (Not the boyfriends. Eden, Emmy, and Theo were perfect.) and maybe their parents. Charlie is an obnoxious manchild, and I don't think anything really changed there, Alec still makes big scenes that everyone just kind of excuses and cooks, and Jason is largely absent. I had hoped for a turning point in the King family's unity. I wanted a knock-out-drag-out confrontation early enough in the story that they had time to start showing Andrew attention and appreciation. Everything turned out nicely for everyone separately, but as the supposed ending of a truly memorable series...I just wanted a bit more.
All things considered, I really enjoyed the end of this series. This one was a very solid 9/10 stars, rounded up because the King boyfriends are amazing and I love them dearly.
May 28, 2026
I thought Make the Play was the best book in this series, but that’s just because I hadn’t read this one yet!! So far, Seal the Deal is one of my favorite books this year and will definitely be hard to beat.
Move over Emerson, Andrew is my new favorite character!! His autism and asexuality were so relatable and written so well. His character was amazing, even when he had me sobbing! The way he is always so strong for everybody else, but neglects himself so others don’t worry absolutely broke my heart. I feel like I understand Andrew on a deeper level, which makes me love him even more.
Nicholas was also a great character and perfect for Andrew. Even though he was this brute and possessive man, his quiet, tender love for Andrew was beautiful. He really saw through Andrew’s masking and became this great support for him.
I really enjoy the way Lucky Hart writes neurodivergent characters. The stimming, the confusion, the anxiety, the overthinking, the exhaustion… it’s just all so realistic and perfectly executed.
And the same can be said for the portrayal of asexuality. It’s such a spectrum but I found it incredibly relatable to my own experience. Andrew’s relationship with sex is confusing for him and finding somebody who makes him feel safe enough to explore his feelings and likes/dislikes was fantastic to see. I liked how he and Nicholas communicated and figured out what works for both of their needs. Sexual desires shift and change and don’t always look the same for everybody. I’m ace and sex positive, but I personally don’t like to be touched, so navigating that with a potential partner is difficult, especially because I don’t know if it’s a generalized thing or if it’ll change with the right person. I can only hope that I find my own Nicholas one day. Somebody who loves me as I am and doesn’t judge me for the things I want or don’t want. Somebody who understands me and makes me feel safe enough and comfortable enough to explore and figure out my own relationship with sex.
The non-sexual aspects of this story were also incredibly written. The family dynamics, the friends, the ‘fake’ dating, all the soft touches… all perfect!
Move over Emerson, Andrew is my new favorite character!! His autism and asexuality were so relatable and written so well. His character was amazing, even when he had me sobbing! The way he is always so strong for everybody else, but neglects himself so others don’t worry absolutely broke my heart. I feel like I understand Andrew on a deeper level, which makes me love him even more.
Nicholas was also a great character and perfect for Andrew. Even though he was this brute and possessive man, his quiet, tender love for Andrew was beautiful. He really saw through Andrew’s masking and became this great support for him.
I really enjoy the way Lucky Hart writes neurodivergent characters. The stimming, the confusion, the anxiety, the overthinking, the exhaustion… it’s just all so realistic and perfectly executed.
And the same can be said for the portrayal of asexuality. It’s such a spectrum but I found it incredibly relatable to my own experience. Andrew’s relationship with sex is confusing for him and finding somebody who makes him feel safe enough to explore his feelings and likes/dislikes was fantastic to see. I liked how he and Nicholas communicated and figured out what works for both of their needs. Sexual desires shift and change and don’t always look the same for everybody. I’m ace and sex positive, but I personally don’t like to be touched, so navigating that with a potential partner is difficult, especially because I don’t know if it’s a generalized thing or if it’ll change with the right person. I can only hope that I find my own Nicholas one day. Somebody who loves me as I am and doesn’t judge me for the things I want or don’t want. Somebody who understands me and makes me feel safe enough and comfortable enough to explore and figure out my own relationship with sex.
The non-sexual aspects of this story were also incredibly written. The family dynamics, the friends, the ‘fake’ dating, all the soft touches… all perfect!
May 13, 2026
Andrew and Nikki were adoringly perfect for each other, and so delightfully sweet to each other. Love the ace & autism rep, and how Nikki is so understanding and adaptable.
The fake dating to lovers was a beautiful transition, and they both didn't see it coming for different reasons.
I just wanted to hug Andrew, he has masked himself from even his family trying to maintain perfection and responsibility, but Nikki helps break through all those walls and give him the love and adoration he has always needed.
The nicknames were cute, and I loved the rage room date and private hockey game suite, and the way Nikki centers his whole life around pleasing and taking care of Andrew was charming.
The King family are all crazy and chaotic in the best way, but also fiercely loyal and protective.
The fake dating to lovers was a beautiful transition, and they both didn't see it coming for different reasons.
I just wanted to hug Andrew, he has masked himself from even his family trying to maintain perfection and responsibility, but Nikki helps break through all those walls and give him the love and adoration he has always needed.
The nicknames were cute, and I loved the rage room date and private hockey game suite, and the way Nikki centers his whole life around pleasing and taking care of Andrew was charming.
The King family are all crazy and chaotic in the best way, but also fiercely loyal and protective.
May 14, 2026
This book was absolutely everything i could possibly want. Andrew deserved every single good thing in this world & nicholas was just utterly perfection for Andrew. I have never felt as seen reading this book and seeing how Nicholas fiercely loved Andrew and everything he has to offer. The fact that Nicholas had seen every little tell that Andrew was overstimulated, anxious, or upset and just fixed it without asking what was wrong. The JERSEY, the stimming on the tattoos, and undercut. Just cannot put my feelings into words on how much this book is perfect to me. Definitely will be a comfort read for me in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2026
Absolutely all of the stars!!!!!!
I adore Andrew, he really was so sweet and selfless - maybe to a fault. He masked his autism so much, it was exhausting.
He didn’t need to mask around Nicholas, who was always blunt and honest about what he was thinking. With their fake dating, there was no expectations so Andrew didn’t NEED Nicholas to like him.
Nicholas is a grumpy asshole hockey player who doesn’t care about anyone but himself - until Andrew. He needed to just be that protector and person Andrew could count on. I liked how Andrew’s asexuality was presented and taken care of in the relationship. Nicki was Andrew’s safe space to just BE. Ask for what he wanted and to be cared for.
I adore this family and this series so so much 💖
I adore Andrew, he really was so sweet and selfless - maybe to a fault. He masked his autism so much, it was exhausting.
He didn’t need to mask around Nicholas, who was always blunt and honest about what he was thinking. With their fake dating, there was no expectations so Andrew didn’t NEED Nicholas to like him.
Nicholas is a grumpy asshole hockey player who doesn’t care about anyone but himself - until Andrew. He needed to just be that protector and person Andrew could count on. I liked how Andrew’s asexuality was presented and taken care of in the relationship. Nicki was Andrew’s safe space to just BE. Ask for what he wanted and to be cared for.
I adore this family and this series so so much 💖
April 15, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Legit tears were shed 🥹 Nicki was a prickly bastard but I ended up loving him so much. And my sweet baby Andrew deserves the world 🫶🏻
Legit tears were shed 🥹 Nicki was a prickly bastard but I ended up loving him so much. And my sweet baby Andrew deserves the world 🫶🏻
May 30, 2026
3.75⭐️
It was a good book overall, but some details aren't to my liking so I can't rate it 4 stars or above.
As an asexual person myself, I was so excited and curious to read a book about a MC that also an asexual. Andrew and I don't have the same kind of asexuality (I'm at the bottom of the spectrum with the sex-repulse folks aha), so it was fun and very informative to read about someone else asexuality. (It's a spectrum after all, us ace people have very different way to feel/live our asexuality.) And I have to say, this is a very good book about asexuality. I really love how it's written in the story and how we see it "affecting" Andrew's life.
But talking about the story itself, I feel it lacks a bit of plot, for me at least. There is lot of character development (tho, more on Andrew's side and a bit less on Nicki's), but not a lot of plot. Which is not a bad thing, not at all, because character development is very important in a story, but I think I personally prefer my books with more plot. Even if they are a romance book. For example, the entire reason the fake dating situation is happening is because Nicki needs a (fake) boyfriend to bring to his father's birthday party except this event only happens at 80% of the book. That's very late in the plot in my opinion. Also, another critic I have is the lack of situation where the fake dating needs to happen, to be perform in front of others people. I absolutely adore the fake dating trope (you have no idea the amount of fake dating fanfics I read), but in this book, there is not a lot of time where Andrew and Nicki are acting as fake boyfriends. I think it happens twice? Maybe thrice?
Another thing I'm a bit disappointed about is Nicki's personality. I loved him at the start because I don't mind a**hole characters in my books, but as soon as he started having feelings for Andrew he also started behaving like a caveman (Andrew's word, not mine). The amount of times he growled and said "mine" was too much for me. In big old 2026, I don't want that in the stories I read. It makes me roll my eyes and be annoyed so fast. I know some people like that, so that's just personal preferences.
But overall, it was a cute story and I like how well Andrew and Nicki understand each others.
It was a good book overall, but some details aren't to my liking so I can't rate it 4 stars or above.
As an asexual person myself, I was so excited and curious to read a book about a MC that also an asexual. Andrew and I don't have the same kind of asexuality (I'm at the bottom of the spectrum with the sex-repulse folks aha), so it was fun and very informative to read about someone else asexuality. (It's a spectrum after all, us ace people have very different way to feel/live our asexuality.) And I have to say, this is a very good book about asexuality. I really love how it's written in the story and how we see it "affecting" Andrew's life.
But talking about the story itself, I feel it lacks a bit of plot, for me at least. There is lot of character development (tho, more on Andrew's side and a bit less on Nicki's), but not a lot of plot. Which is not a bad thing, not at all, because character development is very important in a story, but I think I personally prefer my books with more plot. Even if they are a romance book. For example, the entire reason the fake dating situation is happening is because Nicki needs a (fake) boyfriend to bring to his father's birthday party except this event only happens at 80% of the book. That's very late in the plot in my opinion. Also, another critic I have is the lack of situation where the fake dating needs to happen, to be perform in front of others people. I absolutely adore the fake dating trope (you have no idea the amount of fake dating fanfics I read), but in this book, there is not a lot of time where Andrew and Nicki are acting as fake boyfriends. I think it happens twice? Maybe thrice?
Another thing I'm a bit disappointed about is Nicki's personality. I loved him at the start because I don't mind a**hole characters in my books, but as soon as he started having feelings for Andrew he also started behaving like a caveman (Andrew's word, not mine). The amount of times he growled and said "mine" was too much for me. In big old 2026, I don't want that in the stories I read. It makes me roll my eyes and be annoyed so fast. I know some people like that, so that's just personal preferences.
But overall, it was a cute story and I like how well Andrew and Nicki understand each others.
May 6, 2026
King Bro's: 4 | Ashlei: 0
Not a single one of these books has left me with dry eyes. I knew it was coming; I was emotional over it before the arc even landed - and when I got to the dedication , that sealed it for me. (See what I did there).
Let's talk about Andrew...I totally get why the author calls him the love of her life because now he's mine too. He's selfless to a fault - the master of masking and suffering in silence because he thinks it makes him easier to love. It takes Nicholas, in all his pain in the ass glory, to recognize Andrew's pain and show him that he is worthy of being seen for exactly who he is.
Nicholas is...going to piss you off but believe when when I tell he is an angel from above sent directly to Andrew for the sole purpose of making his princess feel as safe and loved as humanly possible. Maybe even inhumanly possible. Their meet-cute is not so cute and when he opened his mouth, I'm pretty sure I said "this mf" out loud to absolutely no one. And then right after said "well damn" because it's so clear early on that his salty exterior is a defense mechanism.
As my good friend Hazel Grace would say...they fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly and then all at once. It was supposed to be fake...they didn't see each other coming. They are a most unexpected pairing that couldn't have fit together more perfectly. The way they see each other and become that safe space they both desperately needed makes my heart feel like it's bursting.
The non-sexual intimacy is something I was looking forward to the most in this book and when I tell you I *ache* over everything that develops between Nicki and Andrew. It is beautiful and everything Andrew never knew he could have - while also being everything Nicki didn't even know he wanted.
On a personal note, just call me Andrew the way I've never felt so seen and represented in a book. Submitting name change paperwork next week.
𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵
• fake dating • hurt/comfort • ace rep • autism rep • possessive mc • non-sexual intimacy •
Not a single one of these books has left me with dry eyes. I knew it was coming; I was emotional over it before the arc even landed - and when I got to the dedication , that sealed it for me. (See what I did there).
Let's talk about Andrew...I totally get why the author calls him the love of her life because now he's mine too. He's selfless to a fault - the master of masking and suffering in silence because he thinks it makes him easier to love. It takes Nicholas, in all his pain in the ass glory, to recognize Andrew's pain and show him that he is worthy of being seen for exactly who he is.
Nicholas is...going to piss you off but believe when when I tell he is an angel from above sent directly to Andrew for the sole purpose of making his princess feel as safe and loved as humanly possible. Maybe even inhumanly possible. Their meet-cute is not so cute and when he opened his mouth, I'm pretty sure I said "this mf" out loud to absolutely no one. And then right after said "well damn" because it's so clear early on that his salty exterior is a defense mechanism.
As my good friend Hazel Grace would say...they fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly and then all at once. It was supposed to be fake...they didn't see each other coming. They are a most unexpected pairing that couldn't have fit together more perfectly. The way they see each other and become that safe space they both desperately needed makes my heart feel like it's bursting.
The non-sexual intimacy is something I was looking forward to the most in this book and when I tell you I *ache* over everything that develops between Nicki and Andrew. It is beautiful and everything Andrew never knew he could have - while also being everything Nicki didn't even know he wanted.
On a personal note, just call me Andrew the way I've never felt so seen and represented in a book. Submitting name change paperwork next week.
𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵
• fake dating • hurt/comfort • ace rep • autism rep • possessive mc • non-sexual intimacy •
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seal the Deal is now one of my comfort reads. I loved everything about Andrew and Nicki and their story. The asexual and autism representation done in this book was fantastic. There is an asexual character that does not really care for sex and that doesn’t change once finding the one, he stays asexual throughout. (Not hating on demisexual representations by saying this, just that asexual representations like this seem to be less common.) The autism was also very well done with a high masking individual and the struggles that come with masking most of your life and hiding your more noticeable autistic traits.
Andrew and Nicki have a disastrous first meeting and end up in a fake dating situation. I didn’t like Nicki at first because of how much of an asshole he is at the beginning but, he really grew on me as a character as I continued to read. Andrew on the other hand was a long time favorite from the other books and I ended up relating to him so much throughout the book. Just something about a character who seems to have it all together and that everyone depends on falling apart really gets me.
I loved their dynamic and how they grew as a couple. The romance was strong in my opinion as we aren’t relying on sex to convey intimacy and attraction, though there is some spice.
My only thing is that I hope we get a bonus scenes or a collection of shorts or something that include as we didn’t get to see how those played out. It didn’t take away my enjoyment or feel like the book was unfinished I’m just not done being in this universe and want more 😭.
**I recieved an ARC copy from the author, but the review is my own personal thoughts and opinions.
Andrew and Nicki have a disastrous first meeting and end up in a fake dating situation. I didn’t like Nicki at first because of how much of an asshole he is at the beginning but, he really grew on me as a character as I continued to read. Andrew on the other hand was a long time favorite from the other books and I ended up relating to him so much throughout the book. Just something about a character who seems to have it all together and that everyone depends on falling apart really gets me.
I loved their dynamic and how they grew as a couple. The romance was strong in my opinion as we aren’t relying on sex to convey intimacy and attraction, though there is some spice.
My only thing is that I hope we get a bonus scenes or a collection of shorts or something that include as we didn’t get to see how those played out. It didn’t take away my enjoyment or feel like the book was unfinished I’m just not done being in this universe and want more 😭.
**I recieved an ARC copy from the author, but the review is my own personal thoughts and opinions.
May 14, 2026
Oh wow, I absolutely adored this one! I thought Jason and Emmy would forever be my faves, but Nickie and his princess...*happy sigh*
I have to admit that I don't always find stories with ace MC's very satisfying, and I think maybe because some authors write their sexuality as very one dimensional? But this one... ugh, it just made me so happy to read. Happy for ANDREW, who needed to know how ok it was for him to be real, and for Nicholas, too, who got what he didn't just not know he needed. But didn't even know was possible. Their love is so... soothing, and like I've said with the prior to books I read in this series, this one just left my heart HAPPY. I do agree with the author that it can be read as a standalone - any of the King brothers' books could probably be enjoyed that way - but for Andrew in particular I'm glad I had more context from the earlier books irt the way he takes care of his brothers and his close relationship with Charlie. 🥰 In fact, I'm sorely tempted to go back and reread the earlier books now... 🫠
I have to admit that I don't always find stories with ace MC's very satisfying, and I think maybe because some authors write their sexuality as very one dimensional? But this one... ugh, it just made me so happy to read. Happy for ANDREW, who needed to know how ok it was for him to be real, and for Nicholas, too, who got what he didn't just not know he needed. But didn't even know was possible. Their love is so... soothing, and like I've said with the prior to books I read in this series, this one just left my heart HAPPY. I do agree with the author that it can be read as a standalone - any of the King brothers' books could probably be enjoyed that way - but for Andrew in particular I'm glad I had more context from the earlier books irt the way he takes care of his brothers and his close relationship with Charlie. 🥰 In fact, I'm sorely tempted to go back and reread the earlier books now... 🫠
May 14, 2026
First of all: Read this series and start with book one! I have rated all of the books 5 stars and it might be my favorite finished series.
I’ve been timing this so it will be my 400th MM romance.
Review: I don’t know what it is about Lucky’s writing, but it’s like she knows exactly how to into my brain cells… ugh, I am do much like Andrew it’s ridiculous. I loved the ace rep! I loved Nicholas as a character as well. So wonderful and beautiful and a great end to the series!
The plot was a little ridiculous, but I didn’t care because it still felt unique and it gave a reason for these guys to be together. I loved how the romance played out.
I can’t wait to read more of Lucky’s books in the future!
Enjoyment (5) 5
Feelings (1) .5
Plot (1) .75
Setting (1) 1
Respectability/writing (1) 1
Characters (1) 1
Total rating: 9.25
I’ve been timing this so it will be my 400th MM romance.
Review: I don’t know what it is about Lucky’s writing, but it’s like she knows exactly how to into my brain cells… ugh, I am do much like Andrew it’s ridiculous. I loved the ace rep! I loved Nicholas as a character as well. So wonderful and beautiful and a great end to the series!
The plot was a little ridiculous, but I didn’t care because it still felt unique and it gave a reason for these guys to be together. I loved how the romance played out.
I can’t wait to read more of Lucky’s books in the future!
Enjoyment (5) 5
Feelings (1) .5
Plot (1) .75
Setting (1) 1
Respectability/writing (1) 1
Characters (1) 1
Total rating: 9.25
May 25, 2026
i’ve been putting this one off b/c i’ve loved lucky and this series since i read cross the line.
i honestly just knew nicki & andrew would be my favorites. in a lot of ways, i am so much like andrew and a lot of his inner turmoil matches mine. eldest child, always responsible for others, trying to make yourself seem like less of a burden…
lucky’s message at the start was so right - i did NOT like nicki in the beginning. 💀 a grumpy, cantankerous asshole who was not very kind in the start turns into a “i only like you, fuck everybody else” asshole.
i can’t speak much to the ace rep as i personally do not identify but as someone who 100% has her moments of not wanting an ounce of intimacy, it was a breath of fresh air to see it represented so well.
i’ve grown a little emotionally attached to these King boys :(
i honestly just knew nicki & andrew would be my favorites. in a lot of ways, i am so much like andrew and a lot of his inner turmoil matches mine. eldest child, always responsible for others, trying to make yourself seem like less of a burden…
lucky’s message at the start was so right - i did NOT like nicki in the beginning. 💀 a grumpy, cantankerous asshole who was not very kind in the start turns into a “i only like you, fuck everybody else” asshole.
i can’t speak much to the ace rep as i personally do not identify but as someone who 100% has her moments of not wanting an ounce of intimacy, it was a breath of fresh air to see it represented so well.
i’ve grown a little emotionally attached to these King boys :(
May 15, 2026
I struggled with this one! I have been looking forward to Andrew's story in this series, but unfortunately it did not live up to my expectations.
Andrew is a great character and you really feel for him as he overlooks his own needs to make those he loves happy. Hart does a good job of depicting Andrew's mind and struggles. Nicholas is harder to understand. His transition from tolerating Andrew for the fake relationship to actively wanting to be with him and fighting for their real relationship wasn't very convincing to me, as it seemed to happen so suddenly pretty early on in the story. Thus, the story was sweet but felt like wish fulfillment rather than the development of a true relationship.
The fake relationship plotline also didn't make a lot of sense to me- it's set up at the beginning as the reason to bring Andrew and Nicholas together, but it's never clear exactly why Nicholas needs to bring a plus one to his father's party (as his parents really didn't seem to care about this element) and the parameters of the fake relationship are never fully defined, even though Andrew creates a contract. Other plot elements soon replace the premise for the fake relationship, so I quickly forgot about the reasoning behind it.
Finally, I was annoyed by a couple of instances of sloppy editing. A Bugatti car is repeatedly described as a BUGGATI (even when it's spelled correctly at the end of the novel, the odd capitalization remains), and there's a moment at the end where the wrong main character's name is used.
Andrew is a great character and you really feel for him as he overlooks his own needs to make those he loves happy. Hart does a good job of depicting Andrew's mind and struggles. Nicholas is harder to understand. His transition from tolerating Andrew for the fake relationship to actively wanting to be with him and fighting for their real relationship wasn't very convincing to me, as it seemed to happen so suddenly pretty early on in the story. Thus, the story was sweet but felt like wish fulfillment rather than the development of a true relationship.
The fake relationship plotline also didn't make a lot of sense to me- it's set up at the beginning as the reason to bring Andrew and Nicholas together, but it's never clear exactly why Nicholas needs to bring a plus one to his father's party (as his parents really didn't seem to care about this element) and the parameters of the fake relationship are never fully defined, even though Andrew creates a contract. Other plot elements soon replace the premise for the fake relationship, so I quickly forgot about the reasoning behind it.
Finally, I was annoyed by a couple of instances of sloppy editing. A Bugatti car is repeatedly described as a BUGGATI (even when it's spelled correctly at the end of the novel, the odd capitalization remains), and there's a moment at the end where the wrong main character's name is used.
May 18, 2026
Persisting with this one because I love Andrew, he's my favorite of the King brothers. Another self-published book in desperate need of a human copy editor. "Undulated rage" is kind of a wonderful phrase but I'm 99.9% sure the author means "undiluted." Autocorrect and spellcheck have a lot to answer for. Oh, and the ableism that's embedded in society isn't internalized ableism, it's just ableism. Internalized ableism is what a person with a disability may feel toward themselves. Thank you for coming to my English usage TED talk.
All the annoying errors notwithstanding, I think this is my favorite of the three King books I've read. Andrew was already my favorite King brother and I loved getting to see inside his head. I loved how Nicki was able to help him be himself without masking, let go of worrying about being liked or being helpful. I also really liked Nicki, and how he responds to getting to know Andrew. Everyone in the book says Nicki is an asshole, but I liked him a lot better than the insufferable Charlie. I guess I saw him the way Andrew sees him. The fake boyfriend trope is ridiculous as always but there's a good story underneath.
All the annoying errors notwithstanding, I think this is my favorite of the three King books I've read. Andrew was already my favorite King brother and I loved getting to see inside his head. I loved how Nicki was able to help him be himself without masking, let go of worrying about being liked or being helpful. I also really liked Nicki, and how he responds to getting to know Andrew. Everyone in the book says Nicki is an asshole, but I liked him a lot better than the insufferable Charlie. I guess I saw him the way Andrew sees him. The fake boyfriend trope is ridiculous as always but there's a good story underneath.
May 14, 2026
4.25⭐️
absolutely adored these two! nicholas was very rude at first but it was clearly a persona and i enjoyed watching andrew knock through those walls. i also loved seeing andrew’s journey of being able to let someone take care of him. it was very sweet how nicholas got him to be the princess he is deep down and i loved how accepting nicki was of andrew and all the things that make him him. i wish we got a bit more of nicki and the king family bc i think that’s such an important thing and i just wanted to see more! sad the series is over bc these books are true comfort reads and give me hope in humanity lol.
absolutely adored these two! nicholas was very rude at first but it was clearly a persona and i enjoyed watching andrew knock through those walls. i also loved seeing andrew’s journey of being able to let someone take care of him. it was very sweet how nicholas got him to be the princess he is deep down and i loved how accepting nicki was of andrew and all the things that make him him. i wish we got a bit more of nicki and the king family bc i think that’s such an important thing and i just wanted to see more! sad the series is over bc these books are true comfort reads and give me hope in humanity lol.
May 18, 2026
I could write sonnets about how much I loved this book but I’ll keep it brief. This book is a shining example of good romance and good writing. My first 5 star read of the year and will be the reason I love reading again. This story is beautiful and the characters are so well written and I could just go on and on. Lucky, thank you for the King boys and their stories but especially Andrew and Nicki. They are forever in my heart and one of my top OTPs. I want to erase my memory and read this book over and over again.
May 13, 2026
I loved every book in this series but hands down this is my favourite. Today is release day and I read the whole thing, nonstop.
What can I say? Andrew is precious, Nicki treats him right, and I loved every moment.
I actually don't know what to do with myself now that this is over, and there's no better sign of a great book than that.
What can I say? Andrew is precious, Nicki treats him right, and I loved every moment.
I actually don't know what to do with myself now that this is over, and there's no better sign of a great book than that.
May 14, 2026
absolutely amazing!
One of my favourite!! I was so looking forward to Andrew’s story and it did not disappoint. Andrew and Nicolas are so perfectly imperfect and so wonderful together. Amazing story!
One of my favourite!! I was so looking forward to Andrew’s story and it did not disappoint. Andrew and Nicolas are so perfectly imperfect and so wonderful together. Amazing story!
May 14, 2026
Omg, it’s perfect! Even though I don’t like the fake dating trope, i loved it ❤️ Andrew and Nicki are so cute together 🥹🫶🏼
Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews