Reckless Secrets

The Hartmann Brothers #1

by Julia Connors

In this vibrant, heart-racing romance from USA Today bestselling author Julia Connors, two strangers spend a weekend away from their real lives and give in to meet-cute temptation…but will their chemistry survive the reality check coming their way?

Between the scandal of a public breakup and his responsibilities as CEO of his family’s pro hockey team, Tucker Hartmann’s life is a mess. A weekend away at a remote ski chalet will help him reset his priorities.

But when a double-booking traps him with a beautiful stranger during a snowstorm, Tucker decides this is the kind of mess he doesn’t mind.

Paige Manning is a successful business consultant by day, and a bestselling romantasy author by night. When her latest cliffhanger backs her into writer’s block, she hopes a long weekend alone will get the words flowing again.

What she doesn’t expect is an unbearably handsome housemate who proves to be an invaluable muse.

They’re both hiding behind fake names and false pretenses, but the connection forged that weekend is genuine.

When they return to Boston and discover their real lives have them at odds, Paige and Tucker will have to decide if their connection is stronger than the secrets keeping them apart.

Genres: Romance, Forced Proximity, Billionaire Romance

375 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication January 12, 2027

About the author

Julia Connors is a USA Today bestselling author who grew up in warm and sunny California. At seventeen, she traded her flip-flops for snow boots, and moved to Boston.

She’s been enjoying everything that New England has to offer ever since, and now that she’s acclimated to the snowy winters and finally found all the places to get good sushi and tacos, she has zero regrets.

You can usually find her in front of her computer, but when she stops writing she’s most likely to be found outdoors, preferably with a pair of skis or snowshoes strapped to her feet in winter, or on a paddleboard in the summer.

Reviews

[lucialeelibros]

i know this is gonna be good

[Jessie The Great · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

He's not your average billionaire guys... he has a soul. Crazy amirite? Maybe, but you know how Julia writes her guys. Even when we think they could be bad, they end up being teddy bears - that doesn't stop here with Tucker. Meanwhile, we have another lady loosely linked to all previous storylines - she's Lauren's sister, Morgan is her cousin, Sierra is her assistant - but she's as BA as the rest of them. My biggest complaint with Julia's FMCs is how she somehow makes them so rigid in their plans to succeed that they end up causing the third act break up. I hate that they're usually the catalyst for the break. Unfortunately, Paige doesn't break the mold. I will say I did like her more than many of her predecessors. She was mostly reasonable. She made decisions, but immediately was like: "wow I was harsh there" - and made amends when she needed to.

There's this whole theme of martyrdom in this book. Both Paige and Tucker play the martyr in their lives - in their relationship - at times. Paige thinking she owes her family for her uncontrollable heart issues that happened when she was young and Tucker fell on the sword with the arranged marriage and leaving the company. Honestly, though, I was on his side. His family be scheming. While they didn't make him do those things, they did imply it needed to be done and made it seem he was the best fit. He had middle child syndrome there.

He was so swoony though and never did one bad thing to Paige. Arguments could be made toward the end, but any enterprising woman would be doing anything to get him to slip and make it so they didn't have to worry about their worries anymore. At least I would. I guess that's why I don't get a billionaire. There were a couple of red herrings in this book that made me think there was gonna be some unmentioned tropes, but they didn't come to fruition. IDK how I feel about it. Either it was meant to make us think that or they were just missed in editing. Either way, I was engaged the entire book. I really did like both Paige and Tucker. I wish she would have quit her day job earlier, but that was the fight right? IDK what her book really is about, but I'd like to read it... so ehem Julia Connors if you feel like making a pitstop in romantasy, I have a feeling your fans would follow... Definitely a good contribution to Julia's world and if you enjoy her other books, you'll like this one too.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I received an ARC through Montlake via Netgalley for this book. My opinions are my own.

[Lauren Surber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for this ARC copy of Reckless Secrets.

I happened upon Julia Connors’ Boston Rebels series last year and have been hooked on her books ever since. I’ve been impatiently waiting for this new series, The Hartmann Brothers, since the former series wrapped, and I loved getting to finally dive into it. I also loved that so many familiar characters had plenty of page time in this one. It honestly felt like visiting with old friends.

Tucker and Paige have an interesting start to their relationship that I won’t spoil here! I loved watching their story play out. Paige’s hidden identity was such an interesting addition to the story, and I really enjoyed that extra layer. It also made me wonder if we’ll ever see a different genre from Julia Connors!

I can’t wait to see what connections the rest of the Hartmann brothers find in their books!

This was an advance copy I feel lucky to have read. The bad news is, if you’re reading this review, you have a little while to wait for this one. The good news is that if you haven’t read the two previous series connected to Reckless Secrets, you have time—and you absolutely should! So many characters from both series appear in this book that having their backstories will add a depth to this story that you’ll be glad you have.

[Tessa K · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You’re a priority, not an interruption, Paige.” 🥹

Tucker was such a sweetheart! A little cocky, but luckily not in an irritating way. I really liked him, and Paige was such a strong, independent FMC. I especially loved seeing her work on her writing throughout the story.

It took me a little while to keep track of all the characters in the beginning because there were so many of them, but once I got everyone straight, I was hooked.

The chemistry was definitely there, the spice was good, and overall this was such a fun and enjoyable read. I had a really good time with this one!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[lena ☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Paige and Tucker find themselves snowed in together at a remote ski chalet, both looking for an escape from their complicated lives. Hiding behind fake names, the successful business consultant and the hockey team CEO discover undeniable chemistry, with Tucker becoming the perfect muse for Paige’s writing. But when they return to Boston and their real identities come to light, their connection is put to the test.

I loved how their connection developed when it was just the two of them. It was so fun watching their walls coming down, and them getting comfortable with each other before heading back home.

The chemistry between the two MCs was CRAZY. I was so insanely hooked! I loved all the yearning and groveling, and it was so heartwarming to see how Tucker knows what Paige needs and does what he can (pretty much anything) to give it to her.

This was an amazing start to the series and I can’t wait to see what comes next by Julia.

thank you to net galley, the montlake and Julia Connors for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Tamara Chubb · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

ARC review
So nice to be back in the Boston Rebels universe and see it from a new point of view.
Not sure how I feel about the MMC as was a bit full on and not sure about his backstory but did like his personality. The fact the the FMC is also linked to previous charcters is good as we get to see some of our favourites again.
Excited to see the other Haartman brothers to see if my suspicion is right.

[Brianne C · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Reckless Secrets" by Julia Connors kicks off the Hartmann Brothers series with an addictive, banter-filled romance that proves why the "he-falls-first" trope remains undefeated. The story us wrapped around a billionaire, Tucker Hartmann and secret romance novelist Paige Manning, the novel blends genuine emotional maturity with high-stakes tension with a bit of unnecessary plot filler that comes off too much at times. "Reckless Secrets " releases January 12, 2027.

❄️​ Plot Highlights
➡️​Forced Proximity & Hidden Identities: The story thrusts Paige and Tucker together under close quarters, sparked by layered secrets(and steamy attraction). Paige is fiercely protective of her identity as a pen-named romance author, while Tucker contends with his public billionaire persona and together they create a weekend neither will forget.
➡️​A Meta Story-Within-a-Story: Paige's secret writing career provides a fun parallel narrative, leaving readers just as desperate to find out how her own manuscript ends as they are to see her romance with Tucker unfold.
➡️​Public Fallout & High Stakes: The central conflict escalates when a leaked video, Tucker’s turbulent public reputation, and the inevitable reveal of Paige’s true identity collide, pushing their budding dynamic to its limits and even in part three where it explodes to a final ending that is wholesome.

❄️​ Key Notes & Tropes
➡️​He Falls First & Hard: Tucker completely redefines the "entitled billionaire" archetype. From the start, he is a protective dream book boyfriend who listens attentively, learns exactly what Paige needs, and has unwavering faith that she is his end game.
➡️​Grounded, Grown-Up FMC: Paige is an adult heroine with lived experience, real confidence, and zero desire to play childish games. The narrative gives her space to lead the story rather than just react to her love interest.
➡️​Connection Beyond the Spice: Instead of letting emotional progression halt the second physical tension breaks, their dynamic deepens through constant communication and shared vulnerability.

➡️​Shared Universe Cameos: Fans of Connors' Boston Rebels and earlier books will spot familiar faces throughout, setting up tantalizing future storylines for brothers Tristan and Preston.

​While the final chaos surrounding the video leak and identity reveal moves quickly, the swoon-worthy devotion between Paige and Tucker makes this an unputdownable 4.5-star romance for this reader.

[Elia Winters · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

I loved Tucker and Paige’s relationship so much. There is something so special about two people who meet when they’re both trying to escape their real lives and end up finding comfort in each other instead. The way they slowly let their guards down and become comfortable just being themselves with each other was one of my favorite parts of this story. Sometimes it’s the little moments, the conversations, and the way someone makes you feel seen without even trying that make a romance so special, and I loved seeing that between them.

Tucker Hartmann has A LOT going on. Between a very public breakup, the PR mess surrounding his personal life, and his responsibilities as CEO of his family’s professional hockey team, his family sends him to a remote ski chalet hoping to get him away from the chaos for a little while, but he definitely doesn’t expect to find a beautiful stranger when he wakes up the next morning. When a double booking and a snowstorm leave them stuck together, Tucker decides that spending the weekend with Paige might not be such a bad thing after all. He takes it upon himself to make sure she’s taken care of, fed, and getting a little break from whatever has her glued to her computer. And honestly, watching him find every excuse to spend time with her was SO GOOD. He might have gone to the chalet to escape his problems, but he ends up finding someone he doesn’t want to escape from.

Paige Manning is a successful business consultant by day and a bestselling romantasy author by night, and I absolutely loved this about her. She is a boss babe and will not let anyone slow her down! She has so much going on behind the scenes, and with her latest book leaving readers on a cliffhanger, she desperately needs to overcome her writer’s block and get those words flowing again. A weekend away seems like the perfect solution until she finds herself sharing a cabin with an incredibly handsome stranger who turns out to be a pretty great distraction and a myse of sorts. Paige is someone who has a plan for her future and responsibilities she can’t simply walk away from, even when writing is what she truly wants to do. I loved seeing her navigate those feelings while also allowing herself to enjoy something unexpected with Tucker. And the fact that they’re BOTH hiding their identities from each other makes everything that much more entertaining!

What I especially loved was how their connection developed despite the secrets and false pretenses. They may have started their weekend not fully revealing their identities, but the feelings that developed between them were very real. There was something so sweet about the way they found comfort in each other and got to experience a little bubble away from the expectations of their everyday lives. Of course, that bubble couldn’t last forever, and returning to Boston meant facing the realities they had been avoiding. Finding out that their real lives could put them at odds made things so much more complicated, and I was definitely curious to see how they would navigate everything. It was a fun and heartwarming journey to see how they found their way back to each other even with all of the obstacles in their way.

This was such a fun start to the Hartmann Brothers series, and Tucker and Paige completely won me over. I loved the forced proximity, the snowy setting, the secret identities, and the way these two found something genuine in a situation neither of them expected. I’m so excited to continue the series and get to know more of the Hartmann brothers as well as go back and read more of Julia Connors books!

[Shelby · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I loved Tucker and Paige’s soft feelings. The way they truly just became comfortable in each other and in the silence is such an unbelievably underrated feeling of love. To be seen and all of those moments of just silence was so great and Julia really captured that essence.

Tucker needed to get away and to get away he needed to go to a remote place in a cabin away from life and away from doing anything more stupid than the PR nightmare he started within his family. He didn’t think going to this cabin he would find someone there to get snowed in with, but there are worst ways to spend a weekend than with a beautiful woman who holds herself up in the bedroom typing away. Since they find themselves not being able to leave the cabin, Tucker puts it up upon himself to make sure the mysterious woman is fed and properly entertained, and hopefully willing to meet in the hot tub on New Year’s Eve to give her herself a break. Did he think the mysterious woman that he met in the cabin typing away on her computer would also be a part of the families possible heist to take over another company and her being on the other companies payroll? No, but he finds himself absolutely intrigued by Paige and her secret identity. Tucker can’t help but find himself wrapped up in Paige’s orbit also trying to figure out how he got himself involved in the hockey team and trying to get the CEO title back from him his brother without messing it all up in the process.

Paige has a secret, and her secret is she is a phenomenal romance writer. Not that a single person in her immediate orbit would know that about her. She ultimately wants to write full-time, however, that is not the reality of life at this moment. She wants to make sure her previous debt, her parents previous debt, and her future are set before she decides to give up the job that she’s really good at for the job that she actually wants to do. Paige find herself, weeks behind in a deadline, needing to do it within a weekend so she needs to get away from the hustle and bustle. That’s where she finds herself with the intriguing Tucker. Paige didn’t think Tucker would find out her secret, but he does. However, she finds him to be her biggest supporter, just when she needs someone in her corner. Paige knows they both need to figure out what they ultimately want in their future but they also need to figure out if they see each other in the future together.

This was my first book of Julia’s and it got me so excited to read more by her. Tucker and Paige have my heart and I hope to se empire of them in the future as I read more from Julia.

[alexia’s romance library · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

This is an arc review ✨ thank you so much to Julia Connors, the team and Montlake for the gifted copy of the ebook!

When I first heard about the existence of Tucker through his younger brother Luke’s book (Goal line) I was very curious about the Hartmann brothers and if we’d get to know more about them through the Boston Rebels series. Imagine my delight and surprise when the author announced this new series! I love a billionaire romance where the MMC falls fast and hard, there is just something superior about a man who is obsessed with his woman and treats her right. Tucker is no exception to that formula and I love it!

While I haven’t read Paige’s sister Lauren’s book yet, I was able to read this as a standalone without needed context from previous books which is always a positive when starting a new series with characters that are interwoven from other series by the same author.

Paige is a powerhouse of a female main character and I adore her! She is driven, creative, doesn’t allow men with big egos to even TRY to undermine her and she’s very easy to like, even when she’s her own worst enemy. Tucker is also driven in his own way but their social and economic backgrounds have differences you can’t ignore and yet they don’t overcome the other. There are an amazing balance for the other and being an eldest daughter, I love that Paige might carry the weight of the world on her shoulders but Tucker is more than willing to lift it from her and carry it all for her.

Tucker is a charming hero who might be in the middle of some drama but his laidback personality makes the heavy burdens of anything outside of Paige seem like they’ll be alright. His flirty nature and willingness to be there for her are also traits I adored. It lightens their dynamic and created a balance to their personalities that I felt were very important to the overall relationship.

Reckless Secrets is a book that’s easy to love. Once I started, it took effort to put it down and I finished it as quickly as I could! It also laid out some interesting Easter eggs for the other Hartmann Brothers and I’m very curious to get to their own HEA as well. This is such a found family heavy-book that’s a joy to be back in this fictional Boston with characters I’ve loved and new characters that I’m falling hard for too.

Thank you so much for the arc, I can’t wait to see what else is waiting for these billionaires in the future!

[Harshey Girish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Julia, for the eARC!

I’ve been on the edge of my seat ever since I found out we were getting a spin-off featuring Luke’s three brothers. As soon as I saw the tropes, found out who the FMC was, and learned that she was an eldest daughter, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. And let me just say… it did not disappoint. I was hooked from the dedication because now I’m manifesting this kind of love for myself. 😂 Taking applications for a Tucker Hartmann in the streets of Boston.

This book really is a love letter to all the eldest daughters who take on the world, carry everyone else’s responsibilities, and sometimes just want a shoulder to lean on.

Tucker was down bad from the very beginning. Between the scandal surrounding his very public breakup and the responsibilities that come with being the CEO of his family’s professional hockey team, his life is a mess. A weekend away at a remote ski chalet seems like exactly what he needs to reset and figure out his priorities.

Enter Paige, a consultant who is secretly a bestselling author, trying to balance everything in her life while also dealing with writer’s block. I absolutely loved their banter and, honestly, the way Tucker showed up for her every single time. 🥹

“You’re a priority, not an interruption, Paige.”

UM. EXCUSE ME. 🫠

Watching Paige grow throughout the story and slowly learn to let Tucker in completely melted my heart. I loved seeing her realize that she doesn’t always have to carry everything on her own. There are a few twists and turns toward the end that I definitely didn’t see coming. I had convinced myself something else was going to happen, so I was pleasantly surprised by how things played out. I don’t want to say too much and spoil anything because I really think everyone should experience this story for themselves!

It was also so much fun getting little snippets of some of my favorite characters from Julia’s previous books. 🥹 I already can’t wait to see what’s in store for the other Hartmann brothers! And, of course, I’ve already started coming up with my predictions for who the FMCs might be in the rest of the series. 👀 Now I just have to wait and see if my hunches are right!

Tucker Hartmann, you have officially ruined the dating pool for everyone. 😂💕

[Michelle Fry · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment Paige held a knife to Tucker during their very first meeting, I was HOOKED!

Tucker Hartmann and Paige Manning’s story was filled with unexpected connections, hilarious moments, undeniable chemistry, heartbreak, and a love that neither of them saw coming.

Tucker escaping to a ski cabin after accidentally posting a video involving his ex, while Paige was desperately trying to overcome her writer’s block and meet her overdue deadline, was the perfect setup.

And the fact that they gave each other fake names? I LOVED IT!

Watching their connection grow through their shared love of books, discussing Paige’s plot hole, and Tucker unknowingly becoming the inspiration for her writing made their time together even more special.

And when they discovered each other’s true identities?!

THE SHOCK!

But what really stole my heart was Tucker.

That man fell HARD and FAST for Paige, and I loved every second of it.

Watching Paige struggle to write again after leaving New Hampshire, when the words had come so naturally while they were together, showed just how deeply their connection affected her.

And Tucker’s conversations with Emma? The way he genuinely cared about helping her find a way back to playing hockey, and actually made it happen, showed another beautiful side of his character.

Then came the heartbreak.

Watching everything unravel, knowing how much they meant to each other, and seeing how desperately Tucker wanted to make things right absolutely broke my heart.

But that ending?!

The thought, the effort, and the incredible surprise Tucker planned for Paige made everything worth it. These two deserved their happily ever after, and I couldn’t have imagined a more beautiful way for their story to come together.

Reckless Secrets reminded me that sometimes the most unexpected connections become the ones that change everything.

And Tucker Hartmann?

That man was absolutely, undeniably, and completely gone for Paige Manning.

And I loved every minute of it. 💙

[Bookgeekinscrubs · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Julia Connors is one of my new authors from last year. I like her Boston Rebel series, but Goal Line wasn't my jam, so I was a bit cautious about starting this one especially since it focuses on Luke's brother, a.k.a. the Hartmann brothers.

Yay to Julia cos I liked this one! Paige/Isla was realistic, as another eldest daughter, I approve! Tucker, not so much... at first. However, props to Tucker: such a good book boyfriend, never giving up on wearing Paige down and determined to win her cos he saw the goal post!

Paige is your blueprint eldest daughter with baggage, ambitious, full of self-doubt, and kick-ass! I mean, Paige is such a strong and standout character. Her secret identity as a romantasy author was cool, but her professional life is full of jackasses — yet she still overcomes them. While Tucker is the middle child, annoying at first but charming at his finest. I needed more time to like Tucker. But having Tucker as muse well done by Paige & all the shenanigans, bless you woman! Tucker is annoyingly adorable, and I ♥️ that he's such a good lover 🥵for Paige. But that "eyes on me" moment from Paige? 👏 and, That was refreshing & HOLY SMOKES💨

I feel Tucker needed to be more than a Hartmann & wished it was showcased more, he did but I still felt lacking.
The final part of the book's conflict was cliché and not my fave. I think I've kind of read it before (well, most romance books are like that), but I was hoping for something a bit different, cos Paige deserves more than some typical Hartmann way of mending things.

However, I'm hoping for some enemies-to-lovers thing with Preston & Veronica, and intrigue with Tristan's story. Please read this if you love romance-author romance, cos this is good & mature couple, cos Julia Connors does this damn well. Thanks for the ARC, NetGalley!

[Jen Lindsey · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

Oh sweet Tucker, a CEO billionaire that is head over heels down bad for Paige, the BA author and business consultant. Their meet-cute in the double booked house rental was so fun! Tucker is a muse for Paige's next book, but she has no idea the lengths he will go to, to be everything she and the female lead in her book needs! Tucker is a PR nightmare in the moment and Paige can't risk getting caught up in that with her secret author identity. Their weekend in the rental house was life changing, however, back in the real world having a relationship seems impossible. They have so many obstacles to overcome to have a public relationship, but throughout it all, Tucker is determined to show Paige his love and how dedicated he is to support Paige and their future.

I can empathize with Paige's professional hesitancy to have a relationship with Tucker because of his family name and reputation, however, I wish it didn't take her quite as long to see how good life could be by allowing herself to have the very best. Tucker also had a lot of growth as both characters were both labeled martyrs by their family and friends. Did they need to be? Probably not, but they needed each other to realize they didn't need to sacrifice so much in life. It was great getting to get page time with so many of our favorites from the author's previous series. The found family this author creates is amazing!

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc of Reckless Secrets in exchange for an honest review. There are so many plot twists and different scenarios at play, but it keeps you engaged and yearning for the romance to hold true and work through till the end! I loved the author aspect and how Tucker literally couldn't go a few hours without contact of some sort. This is a fantastic start to the new series by this author.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.

One thing I will say for those Hartmann men is that they don’t give their hearts away easily, but when they fall, they fall hard.

Double booked cabin is always a good idea!

I have read a couple of Julia Connors's books before, and I liked them. However, I think that this book is most enjoyable for those who have read all her books, because:

So many characters. This is the first book of the series, but I felt like I should’ve known all these people and their relations. They are people from other series and don’t get me wrong, I love cameos but this was just quite confusing. First it was confusing, then it got actually also a bit irritating.

I liked the main characters dynamic when they were together, the tension was good! The story proceeded well, the pacing was ok too. It was mostly easy to read and writing was good. The ending was cute!

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Pov: dual, 1st person
Heat: open doors
Pacing: instalust
Communication: miscommunication
Third act: break up
Ending: HEA

Main characters:
* Cinnamon roll hero
* Millionaire

What?
* Dirty talk
* Forced proximity
* Grand gestures
* He falls first
* One bed
* One night stand turned more
* Second chance
* Sports romance: hockey
* Vacation fling
* Weddings

Where?
* Traveling together

Drama?
* Family drama
* Secret identity

Other vibes:
* Book about books
* The one that got away

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new Julia Connors series has entered the villa.

💙 Forced Proximity
💙 Secret Identities
💙 Secret Relationship
💙 Business Rivals
💙 Billionaire Romance

Reckless Secrets is the first book in Julia Connors’ brand new series, The Hartman Brothers. We were introduced to these brothers in book 4 of the Boston Rebels series featuring the youngest brother, Luke eartman. We were teased with their brotherly dynamic through how they handle business matters surrounding Hartman Enterprises, and the Hartman name in general. But what Goal Line didn’t tell us was just how hot these brothers are.

After a whoops-a-doodle switcheroo that led to a double booking tucked away into the mountains Paige and Tucker are forced to spend the New Years weekend in a one bedroom rental. Tucker was relegated to the cabin after scandal emerged around his ex-fiancé and her connections to the Hartman’s. Paige is there to buckle down and write the book that was promised to her editor months ago.

These two have the most delicious chemistry and as the reader, you’re cheering for them from the sidelines the whole time… even when it seems like it may not be possible for them to be together. I literally could not put this book down. I found myself picking it up between meetings, and any downtime I could find, and of course I stayed up too late to finish it. All of it was totally worth it. I love the characters that Julia Connors writes, they are flawed and completely human. I can’t wait for the world to fall in love with the Hartman brothers like I have.

[Ninna Braga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of Reckless Secrets.

I have to honestly say, I didn’t know how I would feel about this one, having lived so long in the Boston Rebels’ universe and also, not having read a billionaire romance in forever. But, as it always happens with Julia’s books, I was absolutely not disappointed, I was so happy to have given this one a chance (by now, I should know if it’s written by this author I will love it, not one of her books has ever let me down).

I loved getting to know Paige and seeing her go through all this emotions and feelings of having to always put on the I’m-a-strong-woman-and-I-can-do-it-all-on-my-own suit, the one that makes you just push through over and over again because others rely on you. Her growth throughout the story is remarkable and the way she slowly lets Tucker in and allows herself to be cherished is just so beautifully written. She deserved this man’s relentless love, someone who would walk with her through all the hardships and just be willing to take the burden however he could so she could just breathe a little easier.

I loved this romance. It was pure and real and just perfection.

Also, Tucker and his “future wife” moments!!! Omg this man!

Can’t wait to see what’s in store for the other Heartman brothers! In the meantime just let me go back and re read Reckless Secrets a couple hundred more times because it was THAT good!

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy books by Julia Connors, and this one was no exception. It kept my attention from the first chapter. It had banter, steam, heartfelt conversations, and a little bit of mystery. I like the author’s books for two main reasons. First, I find her characters relatable. Second, she includes characters from her other stories. I love getting those glimpses into their lives after their own books end.

I loved Paige and Tucker. You couldn’t help but root for them. Paige was leery of getting into a relationship and put up walls. Her reason was heartbreaking, but valid. Tucker was extremely patient and kept chipping away at those walls. He was persistent without pushing her, which I loved.

Characters from other stories appeared and fit seamlessly into the story. The found family these characters have is everything. The group of women who are friends are a bunch of bad-asses!

For me, there were two loose ends that never got tied up. The first was not knowing who posted the video or how it got posted. Who knows? Maybe we’ll find out in future books! The other thing that was unclear to me was how the Hartmanns earned their reputation. I’m not gonna lie. I get excited about new releases from favorite authors and tend to read fast, so I might have missed the story behind their reputation.

[Rissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed. In Love. Wishing I was in the hot tub!!

5 Star BOOK REVIEW

First of all, with the fmc in this book being a secret author you know my interest was peaked the second I heard that. It feeds my inner reading dragon to read romances about women who read and write books and that is their whole personality, because same.

But....I had my reservations. The whole "two people accidentally booked the same place" trope is really hit or miss for me. More miss than hit if I'm being honest. But I love Julia's other books and have always adored the way she pulls couples together while letting them push for more at the same time. So I decided to give it a shot and I am so glad I did.

Forced Proximity
Secret Identity (x2)
Snowed-in
"One Night"
Winter Romance
MMC deals with love after heartbreak

This book gave and gave and the banter (like all of Julia's romances) was top tier.

So if you want a book that is going to pull out your inner playful side with a game of truth or dare, or stir up those feelings and make you so hot it could melt the snow in winter this is the book for you.

Thank you to Julia Connors and Netgalley for giving me an ARC of this book to read for my honest thoughts and opinions in a review.

[Sarah Gormong · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered Julia Connors Boston Rebels series about two years ago and I was hooked! The found family that she has created feels just like the friends you have in your own life.

This is the first book in the new Hartmann Brothers series.
You will also reconnect with many of your favorite characters from the Frozen Hearts and Boston Rebels books.
You don’t have to read these books before you start Reckless Secrets, but you will want to dive right in when you are done with this book!

Tucker Hartmann meets Paige Manning when they are snowed in following an accidental double booking at a remote cabin over the New Years holiday.
They both went away looking for a fresh perspective on their life and careers.
What she finds is a muse that cures her writers block, while he finds a woman he can see as his future.

Lots of your favorite tropes, including:
#hiddenidentity
#hefallsfirst
#actsofservice
#cinnamonrollMMC
#badassFMC
#foundfamily
#HEA

You will want to read this during the cold January days. While it takes place around the sport of hockey, neither of the main characters are hockey players.

Thank you to the author and Net Galley for the ARC

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Isla Page is on deadline to deliver the next book in her best selling romantasy series —- only to be struggling through a horrible case of writer’s block.
What she really needs is to escape for a couple days to write.
The past year of Tucker Hartmann’s life has been filled with many disappointments —- his engagement ending over his cheating fiancee, and his family forcing him to take a step back in the family business because of the media pressure. When another social media blunder occurs in the press, he’s advised to escape and lay low.
The issue? Isla and Tucker both show up at the same remote snow cabin.

***Dual POV
***Forced proximity
***Hidden identity

I really liked this one! This was my first novel by the author and I enjoyed her writing style. The chemistry between our FMC and MMC was electric, and our Tucker turned into a great book boyfriend. Isla was a strong FMC that I was rooting for to get her happy ending.

I’ll be looking forward to reading the next book in this series!

Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel ; all opinions expressed are my own.

[Kay Smithers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy heck, where do I even begin?! 😭❤️

First, I’d like to say that I’ve been reading Julia for a little over two years ago, and it’s safe to say that I am OBSESSED! I knew when she introduced Tucker that he was going to be something special, but I never imagined he’d be THIS good!

Tucker is patient, fiercely protective of the people he loves, and the kind of man who will sacrifice so much to make sure everyone around him is happy. But what about him? Who makes sure he gets his happy ending? 🥹 The answer is Paige, and watching these two fall in love was everything!

The way they met had me laughing OUT LOUD, and I absolutely loved watching Paige slowly let her guard down and open herself up to Tucker. She had so many walls built around her heart, and seeing him patiently break through them and show her that she could trust him was truly beautiful. ❤️

I absolutely adore these two, and Tucker has officially stolen my heart! Julia, you did it AGAIN! I’m beyond excited to see which Hartmann brother is next because if Tucker’s book is any indication of what’s to come, I AM NOT READY! 🥹❤️

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

I'm rating this book a 4.49 out of 5 stars only because a few plot holes have me rounding down to 4 stars rather than up to 5, but overall it's a really great, make-you-believe-in-love-again book

My favorite thing about Reckless Secrets is the relationship between Paige and Tucker. How Tucker knows what Paige needs and does what he can to give it to her, but Paige also recognizes it for what it is without taking it for granted (too much). And I love how focused he is on getting to know her. I feel like with a lot of books I’ve read lately, once the tension snaps, all that’s left is the MC’s lusting after each other with no real relationship progression, whereas here, he literally just wants to talk to her and to get her to open up to him.

How the video was posted, Tucker's reputation, and the fallout of the secret identity reveal I think, could've been made a little bit clearer but did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.

Can't wait for Preston and Tristan's books!

[Entisar Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the chemistry between Tucker and Paige here, it felt genuine from the start. What stood out most was how focused Tucker was on actually getting to know Paige rather than just leaning into physical attraction once the tension broke, which felt like a nice change from a lot of romance I've read lately. The secret identity trope, Paige hiding her author persona, worked well and gave their weekend together some real stakes once they returned to real life. A few plot points around the reveal and fallout felt a little unclear, but it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment. It took me a bit to fully get into the story, but once I hit around the 30 to 40 percent mark I flew through it. Knowing the Hartmann family from Connors's previous series would probably enrich this even more, but it works well as a starting point too. Excited for the next brothers' books.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Sherri Babb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reckless Secrets is the kind of romance that hooks you immediately and keeps you invested the whole way through. The forced‑proximity setup at the snowed‑in chalet is charming, and the chemistry between Tucker and Paige feels genuine from the first moment. I especially loved how their connection deepened beyond the initial spark—Tucker actually wants to know her, not just lean into the tension, which made their relationship feel refreshingly real. The secret‑identity twist adds great stakes once they’re back in Boston, and the emotional beats land without ever feeling overdone. The pacing is smooth, the writing engaging, and the whole story delivers that perfect mix of charm, tension, and heart. Overall, this was an incredibly entertaining read, and I enjoyed it all the way through. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Becca Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ate this book up! The kind of story that has you needing just one more chapter, when it’s already way past your bedtime, and only able to hold one eye open! My favorite read this year. This story had it all; romance, forced proximity, hidden identities, insta-love, delicious spice, angst, emotion, banter, etc.

Tucker, who’s a billionaire businessman, has found his life to currently be a mess. Paige is a badass business woman, and a bestselling author, hidden behind a pen name.

They both need to get away from reality. Little do they know, it won’t be alone time but rather snowed in as strangers together for the weekend.

When it’s time to leave, real life kicks in and they have to face a lot of obstacles that try to tear them apart. Fate has a different plan though. This story was overall just a feel good HEA romance that I adored!

You can tell there’s connections previously laid out in other books but it was easy to read as a standalone and grasp the connections.

[Mariella Lambrou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!

As I read the Boston Rebels series, I always thought the MMCs just kept getting better. It felt like Julia just kept leveling up the men she wrote. I did not predict that the leveling up would continue with the Hartmann brothers!

We met Paige ages ago - she's Lauren's sister and Morgan's cousin. As an FMC she is incredibly interesting and like AJ she is very strong and independent but also has some secrets! We've also met Tucker- Luke's brother before. Billionaire and now CEO of the Rebels - but he's been through the ringer! When they both end up snowed in together - without knowing their real identities things heat up.

Then real life comes crashing down. What Tucker did not count on was falling in love. Just like Paige did not count on a billionaire being a man who is willing to put in the work to win his girl and support her in every way.

10 out of 10! I LOVED it! Bring on the other Hartmann brothers!

[Veda Love · Rating 2 out of 5]

i thought this was a standalone book cuz it said 1 in the series, but its an interconnected series where everyone knew each other like its a circle and i dont know any of them

i liked the double booking concept and them bonding over books .paige doesnt trust tucker at all idc if its good reasons or not but its frustating as hell for me cuz its just back and forth of him begging her and her giving in , same thing rinse and repeat, it was too insta love for me and that is coming from someone who loves insta loves, coming to tucker i get it his fiancee was shit and was drunk when he uploaded the video but did have to be named revenge porn just to be quickly forgotten about? cuz hes such a nice person,

the ending at book signing was cute tho

[Kerry Glynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley,Montlake Publishing and Julia Connors for the eARC of this book.

Julia Connors is one of my favorite authors and this book was on point!!! I loved Tucker and Paige’s chemistry from the very start! I think this series is going to be amazing and book one was great. The Hartmann brothers are already peaking my interest and I’m already invested in Tristan and Preston’s books! Paige being an author who is trying to keep her real name secret was a great troupe to write about and I loved how the story unfolded. All the fiends and family from Julia’s first two series are so part of this world that it made me smile as I was reading. I can’t wait to see where this series goes!

[skyeslibrary]

“I love being obsessed with you.”

What’s not to love about a secret romance author and a billionaire hockey CEO having a hidden relationship that turns into genuine feelings?! As always, Julia Connors writes endearing characters that bring readers along for their fun!
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this and that:
♡ dual pov
♡ he’s a billionaire hockey ceo
♡ he’s her muse
♡ one bed
♡ open door spice
♡ secret relationship
♡ she’s a romance author but nobody knows
♡ snowed in together
♡ strangers-to-lovers
♡ truth or dare

triggers:
☞ infidelity (not between MCs)
☞ private content leaked online
☞ workplace misogyny
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thank you to Julia Connors for the gifted review copy!
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♡ find me on Instagram!