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The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride: A luxurious friends to lovers, retired hockey player, billionaire sports romance from VH Nicolson for 2026
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26- GenresFriends To LoversSports
492 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC received from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for honest review.
⚡REVIEW⚡
VH Nicolson has quickly become a must-read for me, so I knew I was going to enjoy this book. But I wasn't prepared for just how potent this book would be in its emotional heartstring tugging. It was utterly magnificent. And I am forever going to be searching for my Leon Hill. All men are ruined for me from this point. Unless you're Leon, you're out. BGT "no" buzzer sound. Denied.
This story sees a couple who have forever denied themselves happiness with each other out of loyalty to her brother, who happens to be Leon's hockey teammate. After a couple of close shaves, after many years they've settled into a friendship that each believes is all the other wants. After a series of flashbacks, Leon is on his way - very late - to be an usher at Erika's wedding, when he spots her fleeing the church. She gets into his car, and he takes her back to hers. Whilst she's talking to her Mum, her brother and his wife are talking to Leon - and both are planting the seed that they should go on what would have been Erika's honeymoon together. As Ash gives his blessing, things heat up.
Leon Hill. Holy moly. This man is perfection. From fleeting kisses being stymied by unwavering loyalty to a man who thought he was protecting his sister, he has been unable to live without Erika in his life. Believing she didn't see him the same way, he's become the single most adorable best friend that woman could have. He is so in key with her that he knows instinctively what she needs and when. To everyone around them, it is obvious that she is the one for him. So when he finally gets the blessing to make his move, it is shy, gentle, endearing - and then the passion from this man takes over. He takes all that knowledge of her and injects lust, and the love he had to hold back on, and becomes probably the most romantic MMC I've ever read. Nothing is too much for her. And he's pierced. Three times. Ahem. Even after the third act plot twist (more to come on that!), he remains beautiful at heart, never shy when it comes to saying things with heart and feeling. Ten out of ten.
Erika flees her wedding knowing that her ex was actually a freeloading git who she never loved, and it's Leon she runs to, still unaware that her feelings for him never truly went away, nor that he feels the same for her as she does him. She's an ER Doctor, and despite the pressures of her job, she always has time for her loved ones - especially Leon. When they realise that their feelings are mutual, he wants to take it slow, but she is the one who sets that notion on fire, desperate to grab the life they've missed out on. Her bedroom history is far less chequered than Leon's, who had puck bunnies in his past, and their compatibility blows her mind. That third act twist is particularly devastating for her, and her strength is tested beyond anything I can imagine. But she stands strong, determined to see things right.
Now about that plot twist. The twist that absolutely destroyed me. VH Nicolson broke me today. I sobbed. She is a despicable genius, because from that point there was zero chance of me putting this book down. I absolutely had to get through it, to see the devastation fixed and the HEA. It was totally worth it because the resolution was glorious and led to a finale that had tears in my eyes again (happy ones this time!). It may have been hormones, but I have never been as moved by a romance plot as I was this one.
I wish I could give this book infinite stars. I would, in a heartbeat. I simply cannot overstate how much I loved it. I laughed, I cried, my heart was in my mouth, I fanned myself, I kicked my feet with joy. The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride is going to be living rent free in my mind for some time. Sheer brilliance from VH Nicolson!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
⚡REVIEW⚡
VH Nicolson has quickly become a must-read for me, so I knew I was going to enjoy this book. But I wasn't prepared for just how potent this book would be in its emotional heartstring tugging. It was utterly magnificent. And I am forever going to be searching for my Leon Hill. All men are ruined for me from this point. Unless you're Leon, you're out. BGT "no" buzzer sound. Denied.
This story sees a couple who have forever denied themselves happiness with each other out of loyalty to her brother, who happens to be Leon's hockey teammate. After a couple of close shaves, after many years they've settled into a friendship that each believes is all the other wants. After a series of flashbacks, Leon is on his way - very late - to be an usher at Erika's wedding, when he spots her fleeing the church. She gets into his car, and he takes her back to hers. Whilst she's talking to her Mum, her brother and his wife are talking to Leon - and both are planting the seed that they should go on what would have been Erika's honeymoon together. As Ash gives his blessing, things heat up.
Leon Hill. Holy moly. This man is perfection. From fleeting kisses being stymied by unwavering loyalty to a man who thought he was protecting his sister, he has been unable to live without Erika in his life. Believing she didn't see him the same way, he's become the single most adorable best friend that woman could have. He is so in key with her that he knows instinctively what she needs and when. To everyone around them, it is obvious that she is the one for him. So when he finally gets the blessing to make his move, it is shy, gentle, endearing - and then the passion from this man takes over. He takes all that knowledge of her and injects lust, and the love he had to hold back on, and becomes probably the most romantic MMC I've ever read. Nothing is too much for her. And he's pierced. Three times. Ahem. Even after the third act plot twist (more to come on that!), he remains beautiful at heart, never shy when it comes to saying things with heart and feeling. Ten out of ten.
Erika flees her wedding knowing that her ex was actually a freeloading git who she never loved, and it's Leon she runs to, still unaware that her feelings for him never truly went away, nor that he feels the same for her as she does him. She's an ER Doctor, and despite the pressures of her job, she always has time for her loved ones - especially Leon. When they realise that their feelings are mutual, he wants to take it slow, but she is the one who sets that notion on fire, desperate to grab the life they've missed out on. Her bedroom history is far less chequered than Leon's, who had puck bunnies in his past, and their compatibility blows her mind. That third act twist is particularly devastating for her, and her strength is tested beyond anything I can imagine. But she stands strong, determined to see things right.
Now about that plot twist. The twist that absolutely destroyed me. VH Nicolson broke me today. I sobbed. She is a despicable genius, because from that point there was zero chance of me putting this book down. I absolutely had to get through it, to see the devastation fixed and the HEA. It was totally worth it because the resolution was glorious and led to a finale that had tears in my eyes again (happy ones this time!). It may have been hormones, but I have never been as moved by a romance plot as I was this one.
I wish I could give this book infinite stars. I would, in a heartbeat. I simply cannot overstate how much I loved it. I laughed, I cried, my heart was in my mouth, I fanned myself, I kicked my feet with joy. The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride is going to be living rent free in my mind for some time. Sheer brilliance from VH Nicolson!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this book as ARC from NetGalley. I loved this story of the best friends little sister forbidden romance. The MMC still flirts and lets the FMC know through some of his flirting what he feels for her and she just laughs it off even though she feels the same way towards him. Fast forward to her getting engaged to a wanna be rockstar and the MMC still doesn't let her know his true feelings for loyalty to the FMCs brother. The MMC gets to the chapel and lo and behold the FMC is running towards him in her wedding gown. They both take off to his mansion and she is grateful he was there to rescue her from committing the biggest mistake of her life. While in his mansion her family comes over to check up on her and it turns out that her brother talks to the MMC and finally gives his blessing so the MMC can pursue the FMC after all these years. Since the FMC still has the honeymoon paid for she invites the MMC to accompanying her to the honeymoon. Before they leave they start dropping hints of what they truly feel for each other. Before they leave to the first part of the honeymoon which is Las Vegas they are already all over each other and have decided to give their love a real chance. While in Vegas after a wild night they end up married. The MMC wakes up to a ring on his finger and looks over the FMC who also has an identical wedding band. He starts to freak out because this was moving their relationship 100% faster than the slow they intended. Once in Bora Bora they are decide that they are in it for the long haul and the MMC shows the FMC the yacht he had build for her. The MMC suffers an accident on board the yacht and the FMC gets him flown back home where the drs are working on him and he is asleep for 4 weeks only to wake up and remember everyone but his wife. The love of his life. The FMC is heartbroken and she believes that she wasn't meant to be happy and that this is her payback for leaving her groom at the alter. She wasn't meant to have a happy ending with the MMC. They slowly start talking and she starts sharing information of their short life together and one day at the skating rink all his memories come back. He enlists the help of his sister in law to surprise the FMC. I enjoyed this book and was sadden when the MMC lost his memory but at the same time I loved how the FMC carried herself and she gave him the space he needed without overwhelming him but still being that for him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
VH Nicolson’s The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride started my Wednesday morning on the patio with coffee while I watered the yards before the heat kicked in. Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the gifted eARC. Tell me I’m not the only one who sees “runaway bride + brother’s best friend + twenty years of feelings” and immediately thinks, well, this should get messy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Erika has loved Leon forever. Leon has loved Erika forever. And somehow these two grown adults have managed to spend twenty years circling each other because Leon is her brother’s best friend and she was firmly placed in the DO NOT TOUCH category.
Naturally, Erika eventually decides to marry someone else.
Except she doesn’t.
She runs out on her wedding, still wearing the dress, and climbs into Leon’s car. Honestly, I was already having fun at that point. Leon being the getaway driver for the woman he’s secretly loved for years? Come on.
What I really liked was that Leon and Erika have history. This isn’t two people meeting and suddenly deciding they’re soulmates three chapters later. They know each other. They tease each other. They’ve hurt over each other. And once all those feelings finally come spilling out, things get spicy pretty quickly.
Then comes Vegas, Bora Bora, a little billionaire-level spoiling, meddling family, and one very unexpected turn that had me thinking, VH Nicolson, was that REALLY necessary?
I’ll admit the amnesia storyline wasn’t my favorite part. After waiting so long for Leon and Erika to finally choose each other, I wanted to leave them happily in Bora Bora and tell everyone else to go away. 😂 But watching Erika love Leon without pushing him—and seeing their connection find its way back—got me.
I also loved that these aren’t twenty-somethings trying to figure themselves out. They’ve lived a little, made mistakes, and wasted entirely too many years pretending they weren’t completely gone for each other.
Sweet, spicy, a little ridiculous in the best romance-book way, and a fun start to the Elite Eagles Legacy series.
Now I need to know: how many years of secretly loving each other is TOO many before somebody needs to just say something? 😂
#TheBillionaireAndTheRunawayBride #VHNicolson #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #HockeyRomance #FriendsToLovers #BrothersBestFriend #RunawayBride
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Erika has loved Leon forever. Leon has loved Erika forever. And somehow these two grown adults have managed to spend twenty years circling each other because Leon is her brother’s best friend and she was firmly placed in the DO NOT TOUCH category.
Naturally, Erika eventually decides to marry someone else.
Except she doesn’t.
She runs out on her wedding, still wearing the dress, and climbs into Leon’s car. Honestly, I was already having fun at that point. Leon being the getaway driver for the woman he’s secretly loved for years? Come on.
What I really liked was that Leon and Erika have history. This isn’t two people meeting and suddenly deciding they’re soulmates three chapters later. They know each other. They tease each other. They’ve hurt over each other. And once all those feelings finally come spilling out, things get spicy pretty quickly.
Then comes Vegas, Bora Bora, a little billionaire-level spoiling, meddling family, and one very unexpected turn that had me thinking, VH Nicolson, was that REALLY necessary?
I’ll admit the amnesia storyline wasn’t my favorite part. After waiting so long for Leon and Erika to finally choose each other, I wanted to leave them happily in Bora Bora and tell everyone else to go away. 😂 But watching Erika love Leon without pushing him—and seeing their connection find its way back—got me.
I also loved that these aren’t twenty-somethings trying to figure themselves out. They’ve lived a little, made mistakes, and wasted entirely too many years pretending they weren’t completely gone for each other.
Sweet, spicy, a little ridiculous in the best romance-book way, and a fun start to the Elite Eagles Legacy series.
Now I need to know: how many years of secretly loving each other is TOO many before somebody needs to just say something? 😂
#TheBillionaireAndTheRunawayBride #VHNicolson #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #HockeyRomance #FriendsToLovers #BrothersBestFriend #RunawayBride
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Erika fell in love with her brother’s best friend when she was 18 years old, and aside from a few kisses where he told her they could never be, she resigned herself to the fact that her love would always be unrequited, and settled for a close friendship instead. As she’s preparing to walk down to the aisle to another man, she realizes she doesn’t love him, and runs out of the church, only to find the man of her dreams idling at the curb. Within the first few days of recovering at his place, both their families have convinced them to go on her honeymoon together to get away, oh, and also to finally confess their love to each other after almost 2 decades.
Leon has been in love with Erika for longer than he can remember, but out of loyalty to her brother, his best friend and former teammate, he has always stayed away. Showing up for her in ways that he thought no one ever noticed, he told himself being her best friend was better than nothing, but on the day of her wedding, the very thought of her marrying someone else made him sick. When she couldn’t go through with it, he decided it was finally time to tell her how he felt, which led to some of his best memories, until a head injury stole them all.
I received an early copy of this book from @NetGalley and @Boldwoodeverafter and really enjoyed it. As much as some of the flashbacks broke my heart because it was clear how much Erika loved Leon, I also loved seeing all the little ways he’s shown up for her over the years. While clearly neither of them was really good at hiding their feelings, given that her brother was the only one who hadn’t noticed, when they were finally able to be honest with each other, their love was the sweetest. Although their trip turned into chaos in both the best and worst ways, I loved that Erika and Leon remained themselves, with their relationship not changing after becoming a couple (aside from adding a whole lotta spice). When everything happened with Leon’s injury, my heart broke for both of them, but I couldn’t help but believe that they would find a way through.
Leon has been in love with Erika for longer than he can remember, but out of loyalty to her brother, his best friend and former teammate, he has always stayed away. Showing up for her in ways that he thought no one ever noticed, he told himself being her best friend was better than nothing, but on the day of her wedding, the very thought of her marrying someone else made him sick. When she couldn’t go through with it, he decided it was finally time to tell her how he felt, which led to some of his best memories, until a head injury stole them all.
I received an early copy of this book from @NetGalley and @Boldwoodeverafter and really enjoyed it. As much as some of the flashbacks broke my heart because it was clear how much Erika loved Leon, I also loved seeing all the little ways he’s shown up for her over the years. While clearly neither of them was really good at hiding their feelings, given that her brother was the only one who hadn’t noticed, when they were finally able to be honest with each other, their love was the sweetest. Although their trip turned into chaos in both the best and worst ways, I loved that Erika and Leon remained themselves, with their relationship not changing after becoming a couple (aside from adding a whole lotta spice). When everything happened with Leon’s injury, my heart broke for both of them, but I couldn’t help but believe that they would find a way through.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The whole “my brother forbade us from dating” thing is really bothersome. These are grown adults. This isn’t 1900. Her brother doesn’t get a vote, and the fact that both of them apparently let one arbitrary comment dictate their lives for fifteen years is batshit crazy.
The way they talk to each other is also really childish. It lacks the maturity I’d expect from a woman in her late 30s and a man who’s even older than she is.
Erika is a smart, successful ER doctor who was going to marry this loser musician who doesn’t contribute anything to her life. She can’t count on him, she makes herself smaller around him, and he doesn’t seem to give her much of anything. Why was she going to marry him? She’s a doctor. She can get anybody she wants.
It comes across patriarchy-coded, which is disappointing because the last book I read by this author was much more female-empowered. Here, the brother’s opinion has way too much power, changing both of their lives for 15 years. Denying them love together. Just stupid. Leon obeys the directive and Erika just lines for a man she gave up hoping he would pursue her.
The relationship was years of yearning and two people refusing to act like adults and say what they want. Attraction and longing aren’t the same thing as actually building a relationship.
And then to make it even more egregious, around 20% in the book The brother is like oh well you guys should probably be together you know. You should go on the honeymoon together. What the actual f. How are Erica and Leon not absolutely furious with her family for coming in right after she jilted someone and telling her to go on a honeymoon with Leon because the brother just found out that they like each other? It doesn't make any sense.
And apparently once they finally do get together, Leon gets amnesia. I don't have the constitution to stick around for that heart crushing, tragic situation. After fifteen years of wanting and longing and not having each other, finally getting them together just to erase the progress with amnesia sounds exhausting.
The way they talk to each other is also really childish. It lacks the maturity I’d expect from a woman in her late 30s and a man who’s even older than she is.
Erika is a smart, successful ER doctor who was going to marry this loser musician who doesn’t contribute anything to her life. She can’t count on him, she makes herself smaller around him, and he doesn’t seem to give her much of anything. Why was she going to marry him? She’s a doctor. She can get anybody she wants.
It comes across patriarchy-coded, which is disappointing because the last book I read by this author was much more female-empowered. Here, the brother’s opinion has way too much power, changing both of their lives for 15 years. Denying them love together. Just stupid. Leon obeys the directive and Erika just lines for a man she gave up hoping he would pursue her.
The relationship was years of yearning and two people refusing to act like adults and say what they want. Attraction and longing aren’t the same thing as actually building a relationship.
And then to make it even more egregious, around 20% in the book The brother is like oh well you guys should probably be together you know. You should go on the honeymoon together. What the actual f. How are Erica and Leon not absolutely furious with her family for coming in right after she jilted someone and telling her to go on a honeymoon with Leon because the brother just found out that they like each other? It doesn't make any sense.
And apparently once they finally do get together, Leon gets amnesia. I don't have the constitution to stick around for that heart crushing, tragic situation. After fifteen years of wanting and longing and not having each other, finally getting them together just to erase the progress with amnesia sounds exhausting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride Series: Elite Eagles Legacy, Book 1
Author: VH Nicolson
Main Characters: Leon and Erika P. 492
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book Release Date: 09/01/2026
Tropes: Romance, Hockey, Brother’s Best Friend, Always Been You, Friends to Lovers, Billionaire
Rating: 4.25 ⭐️
As a teenager, Erika always dreamt about being with Leon. Her older brother Ash and Leon were friends and pro hockey players. Growing up, Erika and Leon laughed, spent time together, flirted, and even had a kiss or two, but nothing ever came of it. Ash made it known that his sister was off-limits. And year after year, Erika had to read and watch Leon with other girls and her heart would break each time. She had to move on.
Leon had a secret. A secret he kept for many, many years. He was in love with Erika. As much as he wanted to be with her, he knew he couldn’t. So he had to let her go. Years later, Leon and Erika were still great friends but he hoped and wished that today wasn’t happening. Erika was getting married. He was crushed. But he would be a crappy friend if he didn’t support her. He sat in his car, praying for one last miracle, when he saw a woman in a puffy dress running towards him. She gets in and tells him to drive. Erika.
Such a sweet story. From the beginning, you can feel the chemistry between Leon and Erika. Knowing how both of them feel, it’s so sad and frustrating, they are so close but so far away. Your heart hurts for them. And as great as it is that Leon is there for Erika at the church, their journey to a happily ever after isn’t going to be that simple. Such a range of emotions throughout this story. Whether big or small, both Leon and Erika show they will do anything for the one they love. So sweet. So beautiful!
Thank you to #BoldwoodBooks for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
Author: VH Nicolson
Main Characters: Leon and Erika P. 492
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book Release Date: 09/01/2026
Tropes: Romance, Hockey, Brother’s Best Friend, Always Been You, Friends to Lovers, Billionaire
Rating: 4.25 ⭐️
As a teenager, Erika always dreamt about being with Leon. Her older brother Ash and Leon were friends and pro hockey players. Growing up, Erika and Leon laughed, spent time together, flirted, and even had a kiss or two, but nothing ever came of it. Ash made it known that his sister was off-limits. And year after year, Erika had to read and watch Leon with other girls and her heart would break each time. She had to move on.
Leon had a secret. A secret he kept for many, many years. He was in love with Erika. As much as he wanted to be with her, he knew he couldn’t. So he had to let her go. Years later, Leon and Erika were still great friends but he hoped and wished that today wasn’t happening. Erika was getting married. He was crushed. But he would be a crappy friend if he didn’t support her. He sat in his car, praying for one last miracle, when he saw a woman in a puffy dress running towards him. She gets in and tells him to drive. Erika.
Such a sweet story. From the beginning, you can feel the chemistry between Leon and Erika. Knowing how both of them feel, it’s so sad and frustrating, they are so close but so far away. Your heart hurts for them. And as great as it is that Leon is there for Erika at the church, their journey to a happily ever after isn’t going to be that simple. Such a range of emotions throughout this story. Whether big or small, both Leon and Erika show they will do anything for the one they love. So sweet. So beautiful!
Thank you to #BoldwoodBooks for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I can't believe I'm saying this, but this was my first hockey romance, and now I completely understand why readers love the genre.
The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride is the perfect blend of friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance, and emotional second chances. Leon and Erika have undeniable chemistry from the very beginning, and the years of history between them make every interaction feel authentic. Watching Leon struggle with loving his best friend's sister while trying to do the right thing had me completely invested.
The pacing kept me turning pages, and I loved how the story balanced swoony romance with heartfelt emotional moments. Leon is the kind of book boyfriend that's impossible not to root for, and Erika's journey from runaway bride to finding the life she truly wants was both satisfying and empowering.
Even if you've never picked up a hockey romance before, don't let that stop you. The hockey world adds depth to the story without overwhelming it, making it an excellent entry point for readers new to the genre. The billionaire, friends-to-lovers, and forced proximity elements all come together beautifully, and the emotional payoff is absolutely worth it.
This is a fantastic start to the Elite Eagles Legacy series, and I'll definitely be back for the next book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
The Billionaire and the Runaway Bride is the perfect blend of friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance, and emotional second chances. Leon and Erika have undeniable chemistry from the very beginning, and the years of history between them make every interaction feel authentic. Watching Leon struggle with loving his best friend's sister while trying to do the right thing had me completely invested.
The pacing kept me turning pages, and I loved how the story balanced swoony romance with heartfelt emotional moments. Leon is the kind of book boyfriend that's impossible not to root for, and Erika's journey from runaway bride to finding the life she truly wants was both satisfying and empowering.
Even if you've never picked up a hockey romance before, don't let that stop you. The hockey world adds depth to the story without overwhelming it, making it an excellent entry point for readers new to the genre. The billionaire, friends-to-lovers, and forced proximity elements all come together beautifully, and the emotional payoff is absolutely worth it.
This is a fantastic start to the Elite Eagles Legacy series, and I'll definitely be back for the next book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
💙 Blurb-
I’m Leon Hill, ex-hockey player, sports agent, and in so much trouble! I have been in love with my best friend’s little sister for as long as I can remember. But she’s off limits. Forbidden. And now she’s getting married. Until she’s not.
Erika Johansson becomes a runaway bride, ending up in my arms. I should turn her away. Tell her no, but the idea of having her is all too tempting. Instead, we do something crazy and I finally get the woman I’ve craved all these years. But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that our timing is never right. And a bang on the head, where I forget everything, is just another reminder of that.
Right now, my heart is as battered as the puck in the closing minutes of the Stanley Cup, and I’m starting to wonder if maybe this love story was just never meant to be.
❤️ Review -
I really enjoyed this billionaire romance novel. It's the first book that I have read by the author and I will definitely be reading more by them. I loved Leon and Erika's chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. The story was cute and easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. I loved the author's writing style and the pacing was just right. I highly recommend it.
💖 Thank you to Boldwood Books, the author VH Nicolson and Netgalley for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m Leon Hill, ex-hockey player, sports agent, and in so much trouble! I have been in love with my best friend’s little sister for as long as I can remember. But she’s off limits. Forbidden. And now she’s getting married. Until she’s not.
Erika Johansson becomes a runaway bride, ending up in my arms. I should turn her away. Tell her no, but the idea of having her is all too tempting. Instead, we do something crazy and I finally get the woman I’ve craved all these years. But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that our timing is never right. And a bang on the head, where I forget everything, is just another reminder of that.
Right now, my heart is as battered as the puck in the closing minutes of the Stanley Cup, and I’m starting to wonder if maybe this love story was just never meant to be.
❤️ Review -
I really enjoyed this billionaire romance novel. It's the first book that I have read by the author and I will definitely be reading more by them. I loved Leon and Erika's chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. The story was cute and easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. I loved the author's writing style and the pacing was just right. I highly recommend it.
💖 Thank you to Boldwood Books, the author VH Nicolson and Netgalley for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Erika and Leon 💕 This book had me from the first page. I loved the flashbacks as it really set their story. Their flirty banter was perfect, it’s very much they both want to be together but don’t admit it to each other.
Erika is a runaway bride and guess who is driving the getaway car.
I am not going to give anything away but they admit their feelings and end up going on Erika’s what would have been her honeymoon.
There is an incident that threatens their happy ever after and it literally tore me apart! After all this time, could something so cruel deny them being together.
Honestly, I loved every minute of the story, it was great other characters being there, after all Erika is Ash Johanasson’s sister and he is a protective big brother, but his wife Lily knows just how to work him 🤣
The epilogue was perfect 💕
If you haven’t read VH Nicolsons books then you really need! Autobuy author for me and her books never disappoint. Never ask me to pick a favourite as they are all brilliant in their own way.
A wonderful installment and looking forward to the new book.
Thanks ever so much for the opportunity to ARC read!
Erika is a runaway bride and guess who is driving the getaway car.
I am not going to give anything away but they admit their feelings and end up going on Erika’s what would have been her honeymoon.
There is an incident that threatens their happy ever after and it literally tore me apart! After all this time, could something so cruel deny them being together.
Honestly, I loved every minute of the story, it was great other characters being there, after all Erika is Ash Johanasson’s sister and he is a protective big brother, but his wife Lily knows just how to work him 🤣
The epilogue was perfect 💕
If you haven’t read VH Nicolsons books then you really need! Autobuy author for me and her books never disappoint. Never ask me to pick a favourite as they are all brilliant in their own way.
A wonderful installment and looking forward to the new book.
Thanks ever so much for the opportunity to ARC read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this friends to lovers story. Erika and Leon have been friends for 20 years. They both have been in love with each other FOREVER, but they never made the leap in respect to her brother and their friendship. Erika leaves her groom at the altar and Leon is her getaway car. Things are finally said and they are finally able to take the right steps forward. There's meddling family and friends, angst and puppies.
Here's some things I liked about the story:
1 they aren't college kids(she is in past chapters), but they are in their late 30s/ early 40s
2 friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes
3 Erika is fiercely independent and Leon loves that about her
4 her overprotective brother has a wife that calls him on his shit
Things I didn't like
1 exactly how is he a billionaire? Yes, he played hockey and is now an agent, but i feel like billionaire is a reach
2 the paparazzi situation seems a little far fetched, they aren't THAT famous
Here's some things I liked about the story:
1 they aren't college kids(she is in past chapters), but they are in their late 30s/ early 40s
2 friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes
3 Erika is fiercely independent and Leon loves that about her
4 her overprotective brother has a wife that calls him on his shit
Things I didn't like
1 exactly how is he a billionaire? Yes, he played hockey and is now an agent, but i feel like billionaire is a reach
2 the paparazzi situation seems a little far fetched, they aren't THAT famous
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Even with older characters this novel just didn't appeal to this Reader. Too many holes such as if you are spending more time with your infatuation rather than your purported best friend (her older brother) why would you be surprised by her engagement. Then there was the almost insta physical intimacy between the two with less than 1/4 way in.
Even found the observations of Leon spelled out at the onset of the book as more creepy, than endearing. Toss in silently appearing in her bedroom of her apartment at night (and she's sleeping) of which he was not an authorized or former occupant as somewhat nerve wracking. For this Readers, the characters need depth and the plot especially in the genre needs to go beyond the physical.
#TheBillionaireandtheRunawayBride #NetGalley
Thank you Boldwood Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Even found the observations of Leon spelled out at the onset of the book as more creepy, than endearing. Toss in silently appearing in her bedroom of her apartment at night (and she's sleeping) of which he was not an authorized or former occupant as somewhat nerve wracking. For this Readers, the characters need depth and the plot especially in the genre needs to go beyond the physical.
#TheBillionaireandtheRunawayBride #NetGalley
Thank you Boldwood Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was not expecting this little tearjerker! Leon is a retired NHL’er and best friends with Erika’s brother. Erika is a ER doctor and they both have been hiding decades long crushes on each other, omg the pining in this!! Holding loyalty and friendships close, neither cross that line despite the electric chemistry they spend years denying. How they finally admit their feelings is absolutely beautiful and you think, yup HEA well deserved after all those years, right? Plot twist (the tearjerker part!!) when Leon has a horrific accident and Erika’s world starts to crumble. I have total book hangover over this beautiful story and actually took me a day or so to write my review after absorbing all the feels!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is the re-published 'The Billionaire And The Bride', which I previously read around six months ago, so there were no surprises for me. That said, the story is well written, and I liked Erika and Leon's love story. Both Erika and Leon have featured in other books in VH Nicholson's 'hockey world', so this book builds upon their characters. I don't think that it is necessary to read the other books prior to this one to enjoy the story, but if you have, I think you have a better understanding of some of the other characters in the book.
This book covers some twenty years or so, with the author going between the present day and the past. I think this is an effective technique to cover quite a long span of time and is used well without disrupting the flow of the plot.
I'm really looking forward to reading Buster and Gemma's story, which is the next book in the series.
This book covers some twenty years or so, with the author going between the present day and the past. I think this is an effective technique to cover quite a long span of time and is used well without disrupting the flow of the plot.
I'm really looking forward to reading Buster and Gemma's story, which is the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and VH Nicholson for the eARC of this book.
This was a sweet, spicy book that had me hooked from page one. The chemistry, and overall friendship between Leon and Erika was chef’s kiss! I was SO HAPPY when they finally confessed to each other and then the SPARKS FLEW! This was romance to the 10th degree when Leon started spoiling and confessing to Erika starting the night before Las Vegas. The twist in the story from Bora Bora was emotional and I found myself tearing up when Leon finally woke up and that story twist was shared. I was pulling for them from page 1!
The epilogue and extended epilogue was the HEA they (and we) needed! Great book, loved how VH writes!
This was a sweet, spicy book that had me hooked from page one. The chemistry, and overall friendship between Leon and Erika was chef’s kiss! I was SO HAPPY when they finally confessed to each other and then the SPARKS FLEW! This was romance to the 10th degree when Leon started spoiling and confessing to Erika starting the night before Las Vegas. The twist in the story from Bora Bora was emotional and I found myself tearing up when Leon finally woke up and that story twist was shared. I was pulling for them from page 1!
The epilogue and extended epilogue was the HEA they (and we) needed! Great book, loved how VH writes!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This was such a will they/won’t they read. They’ve been friends for years; quietly loved each other for just as long. I loved that Erika wasn’t just waiting in the background; she had a demanding, rewarding job as an ER doctor, she had other friends, and a life. Their years as friends definitely showed- they had history, they knew each other, knew their families, their quirks. I didn’t like the amnesia part. It felt unnecessary. But I enjoyed watching them stand by each other, help each other work through the uncertainty. I would recommend this.
This was such a will they/won’t they read. They’ve been friends for years; quietly loved each other for just as long. I loved that Erika wasn’t just waiting in the background; she had a demanding, rewarding job as an ER doctor, she had other friends, and a life. Their years as friends definitely showed- they had history, they knew each other, knew their families, their quirks. I didn’t like the amnesia part. It felt unnecessary. But I enjoyed watching them stand by each other, help each other work through the uncertainty. I would recommend this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another fun book by VH.
Forbidden relationship , sister of team mate, out of bounds but a deep connection is there.
Rescuing Erika is she runs away from her wedding to a loser place holder as she finally realises she can't go through with the wedding. Turning up late as a guest Leon rescues Erika and takes her home.
Going on the honeymoon together as friends is approved by all family members but is this the start of a new relationship, more than friends.
Enjoy the steamy relationship as it changes from friends to lover's and more
Forbidden relationship , sister of team mate, out of bounds but a deep connection is there.
Rescuing Erika is she runs away from her wedding to a loser place holder as she finally realises she can't go through with the wedding. Turning up late as a guest Leon rescues Erika and takes her home.
Going on the honeymoon together as friends is approved by all family members but is this the start of a new relationship, more than friends.
Enjoy the steamy relationship as it changes from friends to lover's and more
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely adored Leon and Erika. 🥹❤️
Their love felt so warm and genuine, and I loved watching them find each other and choose each other. I was completely invested in them, which also meant I was a little heartbroken that they didn't get longer to love each other. I wanted MORE time with them!
This was exactly the kind of romance I needed — sweet, emotional, romantic and just a little bit heartbreaking.
Thank you, V.H. Nicholson, for letting me believe in love again. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Their love felt so warm and genuine, and I loved watching them find each other and choose each other. I was completely invested in them, which also meant I was a little heartbroken that they didn't get longer to love each other. I wanted MORE time with them!
This was exactly the kind of romance I needed — sweet, emotional, romantic and just a little bit heartbreaking.
Thank you, V.H. Nicholson, for letting me believe in love again. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
August 22, 2026
V H Nicolson has done it again and written an emotional rollercoaster of a story. Leon is a retired hockey player who is now a sports agent. He has been secretly in love with Erika the sister of his best friend. Unbeknownst to him she has been in love with him! They have been best friends forever and when she runs away from her own wedding it is Leon who she turns to. I thoroughly enjoyed Erika and Leon’s story and loved how their relationship developed. Along with the spicy moments there are also plenty of more serious ones. There were moments when I really felt for the characters and was cheering them on! This for me has a bit of everything from family, friends, trauma and plenty of romance! Very much looking forward to the next one in the series
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
VH Nicolson's books have become a must read - but this one seemed a bit cliched and done.
The story starts at Erika's wedding - as she's running away from the alter, right into the car of Leon - her best friend, that was late on purpose as to not have to usher at her wedding because he's been in love with her forever. Only nobody knows because her brother warned him off years ago. They go on her honeymoon, only start in Vegas and end up married.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
The story starts at Erika's wedding - as she's running away from the alter, right into the car of Leon - her best friend, that was late on purpose as to not have to usher at her wedding because he's been in love with her forever. Only nobody knows because her brother warned him off years ago. They go on her honeymoon, only start in Vegas and end up married.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
August 8, 2026
Thank you so much to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my eARC. I love me a VH Nicholson book yall 🥹. They always have the perfect level of spice, banter, heart felt connections, and HEA’s that you could want. I loved the friends to lovers that was built up between Leon and Erika and that they came together and overcame the struggles life threw at them. If you’re looking for a quick but great read this is definitely a great option for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Stop what you are doing! You have to read this book.
Leon is off to his best friend's wedding, reluctantly, because he has secretly been in love with her for the last 20 years. Erika is about to get married, but in her gut there is just something that doesn’t feel right.
I loved seeing Erika and Leon through the years in the flash backs and you can see the connection they have.
I absolutely loved every minute of their story and I could not put this down.
Leon is off to his best friend's wedding, reluctantly, because he has secretly been in love with her for the last 20 years. Erika is about to get married, but in her gut there is just something that doesn’t feel right.
I loved seeing Erika and Leon through the years in the flash backs and you can see the connection they have.
I absolutely loved every minute of their story and I could not put this down.
August 15, 2026
The amount of resistance and hesitation in this story was too much but they mended it at the end. It was fun and understandable given the circumstances and it happened right at the perfect time. I'm really happy with the flow of their relationship. I don't really like the amnesia part, but I love the final scene featuring their kids.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my. What a story. I loved it just as much as a re-read. My heart hurt for Erika. These two and their chemistry.... you could feel the air around them crackle. They are literal soulmates, I felt everything they felt and that is the magic of Vicki's words. Leon is simply amazing. Their love is unbreakable. Another great book by the lovely @vhnicolsonauthor
And that epilogue 😍 was perfect!
And that epilogue 😍 was perfect!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC gifted in exchange for honest review
I really wanted to like this but I couldn’t connect with the characters at all. The story felt disjointed, and honestly it felt like they shouldn’t be together at all.
I really wanted to like this but I couldn’t connect with the characters at all. The story felt disjointed, and honestly it felt like they shouldn’t be together at all.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh my goodness, what a beautiful read.
A warming touching love story, that i so was unabled to put down.
Just beautiful heartfelt superbly written.
Its a book you need to curl up and enjoy.
Absolutely fabulous all on its own.
A warming touching love story, that i so was unabled to put down.
Just beautiful heartfelt superbly written.
Its a book you need to curl up and enjoy.
Absolutely fabulous all on its own.
August 15, 2026
This was so good!! I really enjoyed the best friends to lovers and how their relationship evolved. Even with the hiccup in the middle. I really enjoyed this! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this story.
Ugh. the MCs were end goal, for real! I love how they were friends first, each secretly hiding how they felt.
But come on, Leon! Y'all were so old by the time you grew a pair!!!
Ugh. the MCs were end goal, for real! I love how they were friends first, each secretly hiding how they felt.
But come on, Leon! Y'all were so old by the time you grew a pair!!!
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