Centered on You

Maine Meteors Hockey #1

by Bea Hart

For two former college sweethearts, a chance encounter has them questioning everything they thought was true about their lives. When things come crashing down, and they come together, will a very persistent star hockey player be able to win back the love of his life?

Evvy

Geology has always been my passion, and after years of hard work and dedication, I finally landed my dream job at a state park in Maine. Things are going well until I hear a familiar voice say a nickname that I haven’t heard in over thirteen years. Leave it to Zack to show up when I least expect it. When things at work get complicated, he’s there for me. I’ve agreed to be friends, but the more time we spend together, I feel the walls I’ve built around my heart threatening to tumble down. The attraction is undeniable, but should we let the sparks fly? I’m afraid of history repeating itself, but new information has changed everything I thought was true about my life. I’m starting to see things differently and wondering if I can love again.


Zack

Playing professional hockey for my home team has been a lifelong dream. After spending the last thirteen years in Canada, my wish to play for the Maine Meteors has finally come true. Despite my success, one thing has always been missing, and she comes crashing back into my life when I least expect it. Life did always have a way of bringing Evvy and me together. Now she says she wants to be friends, but Evvy has never been just a friend. She’s my entire world. Our chemistry and banter are undeniable, but I’m determined to prove our feelings are real. Earning her trust isn’t going to be easy, but this is our second chance and I’m not going to waste it.

Genres: Hockey, Second Chance, Romance, Hockey Romance, Stem, Sports Romance

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 15, 2026

About the author

Bea Hart is an author of spicy romances. You can always expect witty banter, spice, lots of love, and a little humor. She's a lover of cold brew coffee, nature, and road trips. When not writing, or dreaming up new stories, she enjoys spending time with her husband, rescue dogs, and elderly cat.

Bea's next book, Centered on You will be released in September 2026. If you love a pro hockey romance with strong found family vibes, this is for you! Stay tuned for exciting updates.

Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5🌟 | 3🌶️

Second-chance hockey romances are such an easy sell for me, and I had a good time watching Zack and Evvy find their way back to each other after years apart.

Their chemistry was sweet, the banter was fun, and Zack being completely gone for Evvy was honestly adorable. I especially liked the little ways he showed her she still mattered, while the hockey team brought plenty of personality with their teasing and found-family dynamic.

I also connected with Evvy, especially the way her anxiety was handled and how it shaped some of her choices. I liked that she had her own career and life outside the romance, too. I just wish we’d gotten a little more of their college years and the lives they built apart, because that could have added more depth to their reunion. Their feelings worked for me, but the transition back into a relationship felt a little quick considering how long they’d been separated.

The second half felt a bit more repetitive for me, especially once they were together, and some of the spicy scenes started to blend together. I also found myself wishing for a little more character development beyond the romance, particularly because the side characters were so entertaining and had so much personality. Even with that, there was plenty to enjoy here, from Zack’s devotion and Evvy’s growth to the team’s chaotic banter and found-family energy.

It was a sweet, spicy, easygoing second chance, and I’m definitely interested in spending more time with this group.

~~~~

A sincere thank you to Bea Hart and Luna Literary for the ARC! 🥰📚

I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨

[Laurence · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and to Luna Literary for a copy of this book.

2.5 ⭐️ - I’m usually a fan of a hockey and second chance romance but this read felt a little bit rushed and cliché at times. You’re telling me that these two have never dated anyone in the 15 years that they were apart and also that they can fall back in love this quickly? I also don’t know about you, but from my early twenties to my late twenties, I am not at all the same person that I was, even less at 35. This is still a cute second chance at a big great love but I wished we got more from their back story and how they got there in the first place. Zack is full of sweet attentions for his girl and he is whipped that’s for sure !!! I’m also glad the bully hockey player got what he deserved, because we certainly know that rarely happens in real life 😤 This was also veryyyy spicy, so fair warnings to people who prefer a lil less spice. Hopefully we get to learn more about the rest of the players as their story and this world progresses because I feel like we barely scratched the surface!

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Luna Literary for providing me the opportunity to read this early as an arc.

While I overall enjoyed this book, I did find it a little shallow and tell-don't-show. The first half was kind of better than the second half, if only because once the couple did get together, the second half actually became very repetitive. So much so that I actually started skimming. I also thought the friend group and their communication style was a little chaotic and confusing, especially between West and Marsh. They just felt like the same character, just at different ages.

There were quite a few sex scenes (4+) but they were all, generally, the same.

[Savannah Kempton · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review-

Thank you so much Bea Hart for letting me read this as an ARC! I truly enjoyed getting to read this sweet but spicy contemporary romance.

I’m a sucker for hockey romances and thought this was written so well! I loved that Evy struggled with anxiety and how it even talked about things that triggered her. As someone who battles similar things it felt relatable as she had her panic/anxiety attacks.

Now I loved operation get Evy back that Zack’s and his teammates did. They truly loved each other even though it was someone else’s fault that caused them to break from each other. They rekindle their love for one another even though it was scary for both or unsure tic they truly wanted it.

I definitely recommend this book if you need a romance, quick, and funny, read. Especially with it being a sports romance :)

4.5 ⭐️

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Review of Advance Copy:

This book was plain toast - it’s not bad enough to not eat, but there’s also nothing that makes it stand out. If you like your sports romances with almost no actual sports involved, mid level spicy (nothing kinky or exotic here), and a cast of side characters that are more compelling than the main characters, this is the book for you. The antagonists were more suggestions than actual characters. I’m probably being too harsh for what’s basically a standard hetero sports romance. I ended up skimming the last quarter of the book.

I also kept reading “Evvy” and “Envy” which didn’t help. A Marsh / Bax enemies to lovers story would be far more interesting for me.

[Brittany Steminist Booknerd]

STEM FMC: geologist
DNF at 17%
This is supposed to be a second chance romance, but there’s no yearning or pining. It’s just him trying to bully her into seeing him while she’s at work, and she just gives in so easily even though she’s told him repeatedly to leave her alone and to not call her by the nickname he used to call her by when they were together. It doesn’t feel like he respects her very much. And he’s trying to mark his territory with her boss and creating weird issues while she’s at work. I’m out.

[Jenna Lundberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

🏒 Thirteen Years Later, His Heart Still Chose Her 🏒
⭐ 4 Stars | 🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers

Second-chance hockey romances are such an easy sell for me, and Centered On You gave me a sweet, spicy reunion between two people who never completely stopped belonging to each other. ❤️🏒

Zack and Evvy were college sweethearts who thought they were end game until circumstances pulled them apart. Thirteen years later, Zack has finally achieved his dream of playing professional hockey for his home team, the Maine Meteors, while Evvy has built a life she loves working as a geologist at a state park in Maine. Neither expects their worlds to collide again, but the second Zack sees Evvy, it becomes VERY clear that thirteen years haven't changed how he feels about her.

Zack was honestly adorable. 🥹 This man is completely gone for Evvy and makes absolutely no attempt to hide it. While Evvy is understandably cautious about opening her heart to him again, Zack sees their reunion as the second chance he never thought he'd get. He isn't about to waste it.

And can we talk about the candy corn?! 🎃🍬 The fact that he remembers her favorite candy after all those years and starts bringing it to her while trying to win her back was such a simple little gesture, but those were the moments that made Zack's feelings feel so genuine. He remembers her. He pays attention. And he wants Evvy to know that she still matters to him.

I really connected with Evvy too, especially when it came to her anxiety. She's built a career and a life that belong completely to her, so I understood why she wasn't ready to immediately throw herself back into a relationship that once left her heartbroken. I also appreciated seeing her have interests, ambitions, and friendships outside of Zack. And as a Halloween girl, she gets bonus points for that alone. 🎃😂

Their chemistry and banter were fun, and once circumstances put them in even closer proximity, those old feelings didn't stand much of a chance. I liked watching them finally uncover what really happened thirteen years ago and realize that the story they'd each been carrying wasn't necessarily the whole truth.

I do wish we'd gotten more of their original relationship and the thirteen years they spent apart. A few flashbacks to their college days or more insight into the people they'd become separately would have added another emotional layer to their reunion for me. Considering how much time had passed, their transition back into a relationship also felt a little quick.

The second half became somewhat repetitive for me once they were together, particularly with some of the spicy scenes, and I found myself wanting a little more character development outside of their romance. But there was still so much I enjoyed, especially Zack's absolute devotion to Evvy and watching her learn to trust what they could have this time around.

And the Maine Meteors? 😂🏒 I already want more of these guys.

The team banter, group chats, teasing, friendships, and general chaos brought such a fun found-family element to the story. They have so much personality, and I can already see myself becoming attached to this entire group as the series continues.

Centered On You was a sweet, spicy, easygoing second-chance romance about realizing that sometimes the person who once felt like home can still be home thirteen years later. Zack may have spent years without Evvy, but once life put her back in front of him, there was absolutely no way he was letting his Halloween Girl disappear again. ❤️🎃🏒

Thank you to Bea Hart and Luna Literary for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Aniek · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet story this is!

Zack and Evvy were in love thirteen years ago but got separated. Now Zach, an ice hockey player, has been traded from Vancouver to an NHL team in Maine. It just so turns out that Evvy, a geologist, works for the local national park and they run into each other again when Zack’s team volunteers at the park during the off-season. Evvy is hesitant and even unwilling to have anything to do with Zack at first, but Zack has no doubts and does everything he can to get Evvy back.

This is truly a standalone book, and I had no trouble getting into the story. I liked that the reader discovers certain things at the same time as the main characters – it won’t surprise anyone that they eventually dig into what caused them to break up all those years ago. Given that this is a second chance romance the book can allow Zack and Evvy to make some assumptions about each other, which saves a lot of backstory while at the same time allowing the reader to find out about the last thirteen years more naturally when they start to catch up with each other. There’s also some good yearning as particularly Zach really wants to pick up where they left off.

Zach is a golden retriever style MC with a dirty mouth between the sheets. He’s clearly head over heels for Evvy and pulls out all the stops to get her back and once he has her, romance her. Evvy is the more uncertain, reticent of the two. I initially felt that she caved to Zach’s advances quite quickly, but later changed my mind, given the nature of their earlier breakup when it gets revealed. I love that she surprises Zach on one of his road trips, as it showed how much she likes him too.

Many of the side characters were amusing and entertaining, especially the hockey team chats. I really liked how Bax/West/rookie’s– the uber golden-retriever of the team, (more than Zack!) and I already look forward to reading his book one day if Bea Hart decides to write it. I also appreciated the banter between all the characters more generally, and the ‘found family’ aspect of Evvy meeting Josie and bringing her college friend in to make a small group of female friends.

Zack’s mum seemed very exuberant when she met Evvy again, and at times I had trouble remembering that these MCs are both 35, as they behaved/seemed to have been written a bit younger. I wouldn’t have minded more detail about what Zach and Evvy got up to in the thirteen years they were apart, and more character building/descriptions of their lives outside of their relationship. I also found the reasons for them losing contact all those years ago a little weak – apart from Zach’s attempts, neither really did much to try to find the other again. Evvy’s reaction to the incident that forces her to move out of the park also seemed a bit laconic to me. I still really liked the book though, and Evvy's specialty sounds super interesting.

All in all, this was an entertaining, sweet and easy-to-read book with some good, hot, spicy scenes. I really like the characters and will certainly read future books in this series.

Thank you to Bea Hart and Luna Literary Management for the ARC!

[Jaycee Chournos · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW ✨

Zack & Evvy

🤍Second Chance
🤍Hockey Player x Geologist
🤍Forced Proximity
🤍Found Family
🤍Small Town
🤍”Its Always Been You”

This was a really cute story that I enjoyed, although I felt like there was just a little something missing. The banter between teammates and even with Zack & Evvy was really funny and cute. I wish it would have had flashbacks more of when they were in college. It talked about how they met but I think it would have put more depth into the story had we been able to go back to that vantage point and read about them meeting at them time. I would have loved to read a little bit more about their relationship then to have a little more background about it.

Zack and Evvy have know each other since college. They dated and thought they were end game when they were split up when Zack got called up to the NHL while Evvy was out of town. She wasn't notified right away due to the lack of having a phone and other factors getting in the way so all this time she thought he left her because he didn't want her. Now thirteen years later they are both unexpectedly back in Maine. Determined to find out what happened between the two of them, Zack ends up volunteering as much as he possibly can at the State Park where Evvy works as a Geologist.
Zack and Evvy end up living together after something happened with her current living situation. That forced proximity allowed them to get to know who they are now and also discuss the past and what happened.

All in all, this was a cute story that I wish had a little more depth into the characters. I feel like it briefly talked about their home lives growing up but lacked information so we couldn't get a full grasp on why the characters were the way they are. I loved that Zack learned from past mistakes and wasn't willing to lose Evvy a second time. He was really sweet with her. I loved his morning ritual for her and how that daily reminder made her feel important despite her insecurities. The side characters were really funny. I enjoyed their banter and how close they are as a whole.

Thank you Bea Hart and Luna Literary for bringing me on as part of the ARC team. I love experiencing new authors and I am grateful to be apart of this one.

[Shayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all I want to thank Luna Literary and Bea Hart for the ARC of Centered on You :) Sweet story :)

Zach and Evvy were college sweethearts but ended up going their separate ways. Zack is a hockey player who gets traded from Vancouver to Maine. Evvy, is a geologist who works for the local national park. Fast forward 13 years later, these two run into each other again at the park because Zack's team volunteers there during the off-season. Evvy is hesitant at first to wanting to have anything to do with Zack but he has no doubts he can get her back and he's willing to do anything to do so

Zack is a golden retriever type MMC until it comes to the bedroom because he's got a mouth on him. You can tell he's clearly still in love with her and pulls out all the stops to win her back, which he succeeds in doing so. Evvy, on the other hand is a bit more uncertain but for good reason(s). Once the reason why they breakup in the first place gets revealed you can 1000% see a shift in Evvy because she ends up surprising Zack on one of his road trips to prove how much she liked/loved him and wanted him just as much as he wanted her

I freaking loved the side characters! This found family through the hockey team is awesome! I love the banter, and how everyone has their "roles" within the group. If Bea Hart decides to make this a series, I look forward to reading everyone's stories because they'd all be great :)

These two are in their mid 30's which you don't see very often but I enjoyed that aspect of their story because of the maturity and them knowing what they want. Zack is a romantic man at heart, doing every little thing to prove and show Evvy how much he cares about her and how much he always will. Their nicknames for each other are so freaking sweet and I love their quiet moments they shared

All in all, I thought this book was awesome! It was entertaining, sweet, romantic, spicy, emotional, heartfelt, and complex, which all add up to a wonderful story :)

I hope this turns into a series because I'd read all of these books! Thank you again to Luna Literary and Bea Hart for the ARC of Centered on You :)

[Melanie Gates · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a serious sucker for second-chance romance and Centered On You was an amazing story.

There's something about a second chance romance where one person has never gotten over the other and the pining is just *chef's kiss*

Centered On You gave me all the feel-good second-chance vibes. Zack and Evvy were college sweethearts who haven't seen each other in 13 years. 13! When they unexpectedly find themselves back in each other's lives, there is a LOT of history and time sitting between them.

Zack is absolutely gone for Evvy. Hello, sir, you waited 13 years and you STILL want to prove to her that she's your person? Cue up the golden retriever vibes because this man is an absolute gonner. You can't help but to root for him. I loved that he didn't give up just because Evvy was understandably hesitant to let him back in her life.

Evvy, a total contrast to Zack, has built herself a life and career that she's passionate about and has spent the last 13 years moving forward. Letting Zack back in means confronting a lot of things she thought she had already put behind her and I was intrigued to watch her walls come down slowly but surely.

The chemistry and banter between these two were definitely a highlight, but I also enjoyed the people around them. I think what makes me really enjoy these second-chance romances is because the banter and playfulness between the characters is strong because they know each other so well. The hockey team really brought some extra fun into this story and didn't distract from the main story. The found-family feeling that developed as Evvy became a part of Zack's world again was so sweet to read through.

Sometimes it takes time, many years, yearning and a man who is determined to get his girl that is always so satisfying.

Thank you Bea and Luna Literary for this ARC opportunity.

TL:DR
⭐️ 4/5
🏒 Hockey romance
🔁 Second chance romance
🫶 It's always been you
💬 Amazing banter
🫂 Found family
❤️‍🔥 Slow burn
🏠 Small town
❤️‍🩹 Emotional healing
🧠 Mental health rep
🎓 College sweethearts
🌶️ 3/5

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC Review**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ on the spice scale

I absolutely adored *Centered on You*! A second-chance romance AND a hockey story? Yeah, this was already checking boxes for me. 😂

Evvy really spoke to me on so many levels. She’s an anxious introvert, but most importantly, she is a **Halloween Girl**—which is also what Zack calls her throughout the story. 🎃🖤 Needless to say, I was attached to her pretty quickly.

Zack and Evvy met in college and dated, but something happened that led to an unresolved breakup, and they haven’t seen each other in 13 years. Now Zack has been traded to his home state of Maine and, by sheer luck, runs into Evvy, who is working as a park ranger at a local state park. Zack is absolutely not about to let this second chance pass him by, but Evvy isn’t so sure she can risk having her heart broken again.

I really enjoyed the entire cast of characters and how quickly Zack and Evvy were pulled back into each other’s lives. I became especially attached to Evvy and loved watching her work through everything she was carrying. I was also VERY happy that we didn’t get some wild third-act plot twist or unnecessary drama. These two had already been through enough and deserved their happiness.

And the spice? Definitely on point. 🌶️ Zack brought out a much wilder side of Evvy, and there were definitely moments where I found myself blushing. 😂

Overall, this was such an enjoyable second-chance romance, and I’m definitely recommending it. I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series!

[Hard_Yo · Rating 5 out of 5]

**This review contains spoilers!**

Bea Hart delivers a sweet and easy-going story with Evelyn and Zack as the main characters, who reunite after many years, knowing that they never really stopped loving each other. From the beginning of the book, it is clear that a miscommunication led to the end of their relationship 13 years ago, and that neither of them is aware of what actually happened. They only realize the truth later, when they are forced to spend some time together.

The only part I didn’t quite understand was when she comes to New York and they finally decide to be together in every sense of the word. On one page, he tells her that he wants to worship her and that he isn’t going to sleep with her right then, which gave me the impression that they weren’t going to have sex that night. But on the very next page, the exact same scene is described from his POV, and it ends with them having sex! That part was a little confusing to me, but maybe I misunderstood something. 😀

To sum it up, this book has some tropes I really enjoy, especially the second-chance romance. On the other hand, it lacked a little depth for my personal taste, but that’s mainly because I tend to prefer mental health romances (and, of course, sports romances).

In any case, this was a sweet and easy read. A special plus for me was the found family trope, which is absolutely emphasized throughout the book—and rightfully so!

**4.5 ⭐️ from me!**

Thank you for the ARC opportunity.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Find me a man that brings me candy corn every day, knowing it was your favorite candy, and continues doing that when trying to win you back after a 13‑year separation.

Zack is the guy you dream about. Loves to love out loud, remembers everything that happened between you two before, is also a great teammate and all‑around great guy. It surprised me at first, once Zack and Evvy first saw each other again, that she just didn’t run right into his arms and never let go.

Evvy has finally found the place she wants to call home and is so excited to be in Maine, so when Zack shows back up in her life, it throws her a little. She’s settled, she’s building a career, and she’s trying to protect that and not throw it away again for Zack and hockey. I’m not sure I would have hesitated as much as she did, but I understood why it was written that way.

On top of this, this book had fun hockey guy energy, great team chemistry, and the kind of found‑family moments that make me wish I had a group of friends to hang out like them. The guys and their chats were hilarious, they were also supportive, and even though they were loud and crazy, I didn’t feel like it took any of the story away from Zack and Evvy. I’m already looking forward to seeing more of the team in the next one.

I hadn’t read Bea Hart before, but she has won me over with the spice, the hockey guys, and a great romance all in one.

Thanks Luna Literary and Bea for the ARC.

[Ozzie Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoy this second-chance romance!

Evvy and Zack were college sweethearts who find their way back to each other 13 years later, and watching them navigate old feelings, new truths, and everything that happened between them had me completely invested.

Evvy stole my heart. I loved seeing her work through everything she thought she knew about her past while trying to figure out what she actually wants for her future.

And Zack… This man was determined to prove that Evvy was still his person. His persistence, their chemistry, and the way he continued showing up for her made it impossible not to root for them.

My favorite part was when everything came crashing down and Zack came to Evvy’s rescue. The way he showed up for her in that moment was absolutely beautiful and made my heart melt. (NOT TRYING TO GIVE A SPOILER)

I also loved the mystery surrounding what happened thirteen years ago. Finding out that there was someone close to them involved had me completely hooked. I was NOT expecting that!

This book gave me everything I want from a second-chance hockey romance: chemistry, emotional angst, protective moments, secrets, old feelings, and two people getting the opportunity to finally choose each other.

Evvy and Zack’s story reminded me that sometimes love doesn’t disappear just because life gets in the way. Sometimes it just waits for the right moment to find its way back home.

[Lindsey Foltyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I love a hockey romance, I really do. My shelves are full of 'em. So it was a no-brainer to pick this one up.

I'll be perfectly honest: there's not really anything wrong with it. The DNF is because again, I'm exceptionally picky, and this one had some things I just do not like.

* First, who doesn't love an athlete/golden retriever? But at the same time, who immediately stops liking them when all they do is whine and act like they are 16 and not a grown man? (Me, it's me.)
* I also really enjoy forced proximity as a trope, but not when it's because the MMC won't leave her alone (in a non-stalker way). He's literally just being a nuisance under the guise of volunteering.
* I'm not sure I believe a full-grown man and his adult male friends would still use terms like Operation Get Evvy to Talk to Me. But maybe I don't have male friends who have any fun, lol.
* This is a product of being from a small-market city who only has one pro team: I'm not actually sure the entire state of Maine has enough of a market to have a professional NHL team. Maybe I just don't know Maine, but that's the vibe I get.

Other readers will very much enjoy this story. It's a hockey romance, the players are all exceptionally attractive, and the FMC is perfectly fine. It just wasn't a story for me.

[My Used Library · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

Bea Hart has a new series called Maine Meteors Hockey, and the first book, Centered on You, is finally here! I absolutely loved this book and gave it 4.25 stars.

This is a pro hockey romance that follows Zach and Evvy. While the team is volunteering at a state park, Zach runs into his old college love, Evvy. Things ended pretty badly between them, so Evvy is a little hesitant to let him back into her life. But with a little persistence from Zach, things start to change. When Evvy suddenly finds herself without a place to live, Zach is there to offer her a helping hand. And we all know what a little forced proximity can do, especially when there are still feelings involved!

There were so many things I loved about this book, but the Maine Meteors teammates were definitely high on the list. Nate, Zach’s best friend and the team’s goalie, gives off those boy-next-door vibes, while Marsh is your typical hockey playboy. I loved the dynamic between all the guys and how they are constantly ribbing each other. Their neighborhood is made up entirely of hockey players, which I absolutely loved. You know you’re close when you can work together AND live next door to each other!

My favorite scene in the book was the birthday haunted trail. I was laughing so hard because it brought me right back to when I was younger and would go to haunted trails. There’s always the brave one who insists on going first, while the scaredy-cats hang toward the back screaming at everything. 😂 It was such a relatable and fun scene, and I absolutely loved it!

Honestly, I would definitely add this one to your reading list. You’re going to get so invested in Zach and Evvy’s relationship that the time and pages will just fly by!

✨ Second chance romance
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Hockey romance
✨ Always been you
✨ No third-act breakup

Thank you to Bea Hart and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read an ARC. I cannot wait to get my hands on Marsh’s story next!

[✨Zoraida✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
Book: Centered On You
Author: Bea Hart
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is my first book from Bea Hart and I can say that I found a new favorite author. I enjoyed this book from page one.

Centered On You is book one of the Maine Meteors Hockey series, and it follows the story of Evvy and Zack.

Evvy and Zack were college sweethearts thirteen years ago. Then Zack left for the NHL earlier than expected, and Evvy thought that he didn't want anything to do with him. For thirteen years, they both have been wondering what-ifs, but when destiny brings them together, it's not a coincidence. Zack tries to talk to her, but she wants nothing to do with him, until there are conversations here and there.

But when Evvy needs a place to stay due to her cabin being destroyed by a tree, Zack offers her his home. There was so much tension between these two, and their chemistry was off the charts. And when they discover the real reason why they were separated, they make it their mission to start over and get the happy ending that they have always deserved,

If you enjoy a small town, hockey romance, second chance, forced proximity, and spicy slow burn, this book is for you!

Thank you, Bea Hart and Luna Literary, for this amazing ARC.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really comforting and sweet second-chance sports romance. The story picks up thirteen years after college sweethearts Evvy and Zack split up, when Zack finally gets traded back to his home team, the Maine Meteors. He runs right into Evvy at her dream job as a state park geologist in Maine, and the old connection between them instantly sparks back to life. Evvy tries to protect her heart by offering a strict friendship agreement, but Zack is a incredibly persistent hero who is fully determined to win back the love of his life.

The history and lingering feelings between the characters make the slow-burn dynamic work beautifully. Zack is completely devoted to her from day one, and watching him support Evvy when things at her park job get complicated makes him incredibly easy to root for. The banter feels entirely natural, and the cozy Maine backdrop adds a nice, calming layer to the plot. It moves along at a steady clip, balancing the hockey elements with an honest look at earning back trust after a long time apart. If you want a sweet, low-drama sports romance with a dedicated hero who falls first, this is a great pick.

Thank you, Luna Literary Management for the gifted e-ARC!

[Lidia · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

ARC Review 💙

This was such a cute second-chance romance. I’m so glad I got the chance to read this one because it was exactly the kind of feel-good romance I needed.

Zach is a certified golden retriever and a GIVER. I loved the yearning and how much he wanted Evvy. He was such a feel-good MMC, and his acts of service? Obsessed!!

I also really loved the found family in this book. Everyone was so welcoming, and I especially loved Josie and the friendship she built with Evvy. I really liked Josie and Bailey of course. But I don’t know why but Josie was so inviting and welcoming and I loved that!

This book just made me happy while reading it. You get the hockey, the yearning, the second chance, the found family, and the romance without all the unnecessary stress lol.

If you want a second-chance romance that will make you feel good and you’re looking for something without a stressful second-act breakup, definitely add this one to your TBR.

Honestly, such a good Sunday couch potato book. Just curl up and enjoy the romance.

Thank you to Bea Hart for the ARC! 💙

5 stars from me!

[Yvonne W · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy small town, second chance romance. Zack is a professional hockey player who recently got traded back to play for his home team, the Maine Meteors. At a PR event at the Maine national park, he encounters his ex-girlfriend, Evvy, a geologist who is working there. They haven't seen each other in 13 years after their breakup. Once they see each other, the feelings start rushing back. Turns out neither of them has forgotten about the other. Zack spends all his efforts and free time trying to win Evvy back. When he is back in hockey season, he still finds ways to make sure Evvy knows he cares about her and is thinking about her. So many swoon-worthy moments and grand gestures! I love the lengths Zack will go in order to win back his girl. There was no doubt in my mind how much he loved Evvy. They have such a lovable friend group too! I am excited to find out there will be more books in this series and can't wait for Marsh's book! He's so mysterious and doesn't do love or date?! And I want to find out what happens with Bailey! I am so happy she is moving to Maine! Thank you so much to Luna Literary for the advance copy and for introducing me to Bea Hart's book! I loved this swoony romance that is perfect for fall and the Halloween season! Can't wait to read more in this series!

[De Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book to read. I adore a sports romance. And second chance romance is hit or miss for me. But add in some serious yearning and I’m definitely more intrigued. However, I am beyond glad I picked this book up. I may be a convert to the second chance romance family if they all hit like this. Zack and Evvy were amazing. Absolutely incredible. They may not have seen each other in thirteen years but tell that to the inferno blazing between them. Their connection never died and their chemistry didn’t even dim. Zack is and always has been completely gone for Evvy. He remembered everything about her, and not once did he ever expect anything. He worked for it and was determined to earn his second chance. And it made him so much more swoon worthy. Not that he needed help in that department. Honestly getting to watch these two reconnect and build up that bond had me completely melting. They are so perfect for each other and I couldn’t help but cheer for them. And that ending reflected how much they were meant to be together. It was everything they deserved.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evvy y Zack fueron novios en la universidad hasta que se separaron en las peores circunstancias y terminaron tomando caminos completamente distintos. Ella dejó atrás el hockey y todo lo que pudiera recordarle a él, mientras Zack convirtió su pasión por el deporte en una exitosa carrera profesional.

Ahora, trece años después, el destino vuelve a ponerlos frente a frente cuando Zack llega a Maine y descubre que Evvy está allí. Ella no quiere tener nada que ver con él, pero él no está dispuesto a dejar que la mujer que nunca pudo dejar de amar, desaparezca de su vida por segunda vez. Eve tendrá que decidir si está dispuesta a escuchar la versión de Zack sobre lo ocurrido aquella vez.


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Tenía curiosidad cual sería la razón de la ruptura porque en la sinopsis deja claro que cada uno piensa que el otro fue quien lo hizo. Para no dar spoilers solo diré que tuvieron muy mala suerte porque se juntaron varios acontecimientos que terminaron separándolos.


Gracias Luna Literary por el ARC.

[Jada S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evvy and Zack were college sweethearts who haven’t seen each other in 13 years. When a chance encounter reunites them, they’ll realize that time and distance didn’t erase the love they have for each other but will old insecurities and a 13-year old secret keep them from their happily ever after?

I love a good second chance love story and Zack and Evvy deserve all the love in the world. The way Zack still remembers all of Evvy’s favorite things and shows her he still cares from the moment they meet again is swoon worthy. Plus who doesn’t love a group of meddling friends who mean well and show their love through sarcasm and banter. The men of the Maine Meteors are funny, charming and handsome and they certainly know it. The connection and chemistry between Zack and Evvy was palpable and had me blushing. Centered on You is a great read and perfect for fans of second chance love, hockey romances, two people destined to be together, and a group of friends to make you laugh along the way.

[Becca Angevine · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2

I love a second chance love story. Zack and Evvy were college sweethearts who have been apart for 13 years. Now Zack is back in the same town and even the 13 years without seeing or speaking to each other didn’t dim the love.

Zack is a walking green flag. Always knowing what he has to do to get Evvy to trust him again and to give him a chance. The loved that he called him his Halloween girl and of course the giving of the candy corn!

I loved the character that Evvy was. Having her have such a passion in her work and with what she does. Also enjoyed that she a geologist.

I’m always a fan of the found family in a series. Even though this is only the first book I can already tell that it is going to continue as more books get added. I’m also excited to see who gets their own book. This will definitely it be my last book from this author!

Thank you for the ARC! 🤍

[Tasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Centered on You by Bea Hart is a sweet and emotional hockey romance with great chemistry, lovable characters, and plenty of swoony moments. I really enjoyed the balance between the hockey storyline and the developing relationship. The romance felt genuine, with enough emotional depth to make me invested in the characters and their journey. Bea Hart did a great job creating characters who felt relatable and easy to root for. I especially loved the mix of playful moments, emotional vulnerability, and romantic tension throughout the story. The pacing kept me engaged, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how everything would unfold. Overall, Centered on You was a fun, heartwarming read and a great addition to the Maine Meteors Hockey series!

I received an ARC copy from Luna Literacy. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel

[Sarah Hartung · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐ **Cute, spicy, and sweet, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me**

Centered on You was a cute read with some really lovely moments, even though it didn't fully win me over. I adored that the heroine is a park ranger and a total Halloween girly, and that alone had me excited going in. Her on-page anxiety felt so relatable and real, and I really appreciated how it was written. The candy corn was one of my favorite little details, a small daily reminder of being remembered that made my heart happy.

I usually love a good hockey romance, and this one is definitely spicy! But for a second chance romance, I just didn't feel that strong pull between the two of them. The story felt a bit repetitive at times, and I caught myself skimming instead of getting fully invested in their journey. Overall it's a cute, easy read with a heroine I loved. It just wasn't a standout for me.

Thank you to Luna and the author for the ARC!

[SleeplessBookExplorer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this second-chance romance! ❤️

There was something so special about watching Zack and Evvy find their way back to each other after thirteen years apart. Knowing that they had both been hurting after their breakup made their journey even more meaningful. I loved seeing them reconnect, work through the past, and discover that their feelings for each other were still there.

I also really enjoyed the friendships in this book. Zack's friendship with the guys was so much fun, and I loved watching Evvy build her own friendships with them, too. The group chat was definitely one of my favorite parts! 😂 I love when a romance has a great friend group that adds humor, support, and personality to the story.

Between the second-chance romance, the friendships, and the emotional moments, this was such an enjoyable read. I loved seeing Zack and Evvy find their way back to each other, and I finished this book with a happy heart. ❤️

[Bonnie James · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this sweet and spicy second chance hockey romance.

Evvy and Zack were college sweethearts before life pulled them apart, but when they cross paths again, those old feelings come rushing straight back. Add in forced proximity, a small town setting, dual POV and plenty of yearning, and I was hooked.

Zack is an absolute cinnamon roll who knows exactly what he wants and refuses to give up on Evvy. Honestly, we love a persistent green flag man! Evvy’s anxiety felt real and gave her character so much depth.

The found family vibes with the Maine Meteors were everything, the spice was spicing, and the whole “it has always been you” energy had me in my feelings. A heartfelt and satisfying read for anyone who loves hockey romance, second chances and a man who is completely gone for his girl.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, the yearning that was in this one. Zach and Evvy have waited 13 long years without knowing what really happened in the past. I absolutely love both of them, Evvy and her Halloween loving self and Zach with his obsessive behavior to try and get her back. I absolutely loved the chemistry between these two characters it was obvious from the beginning that they were meant to be despite needing to get over their pain from the past. I absolutely loved the team that Zach plays for they are such a great family and welcome even with open arms as soon as they first met her and it was great to see. Zach is the walking green flag that all women want to see, and I loved how Evvy’s anxiety was handled and how accepting Zach was of it. 10/10 great story and I can’t wait to see what Bea Hart writes next.