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The Blue Ox Boys #2
Don't Cross the Blue Line
He’s the hockey player she can’t stop writing about. She’s the author he’s been anonymously writing to. When a blizzard traps them in a mall with thieves, the truth comes out—and so do the feelings.
Everly Hart lives a double life. By day, she’s E.J. Hartley, bestselling thriller writer. By night, she’s Sutton Blake, author of sweet hockey romances. Her latest project? A book about Beckett ‘Blue Line’ Benson—the disgraced Blue Ox center she can’t stop thinking about. He’s her ultimate book boyfriend.
Beckett’s secret: for six months, he’s been pouring his heart into anonymous fan mail to Sutton Blake, the only person who makes him feel seen beyond his stats.
Then a blizzard traps them in an abandoned mall—with thieves. Suddenly they’re living their own romantic suspense novel, and he’s the hero. She’ll have to figure out how to rewrite the plot without giving away her secret. But when you’re trapped with the man you’ve been writing about—and he’s been writing to you—some secrets refuse to stay hidden.
Can two people who’ve been writing each other’s stories survive the plot twist neither of them saw coming?
A hilarious, heart-pounding hockey rom-com about book boyfriends coming to life, secret identities, and falling in love while dodging thieves.
Everly Hart lives a double life. By day, she’s E.J. Hartley, bestselling thriller writer. By night, she’s Sutton Blake, author of sweet hockey romances. Her latest project? A book about Beckett ‘Blue Line’ Benson—the disgraced Blue Ox center she can’t stop thinking about. He’s her ultimate book boyfriend.
Beckett’s secret: for six months, he’s been pouring his heart into anonymous fan mail to Sutton Blake, the only person who makes him feel seen beyond his stats.
Then a blizzard traps them in an abandoned mall—with thieves. Suddenly they’re living their own romantic suspense novel, and he’s the hero. She’ll have to figure out how to rewrite the plot without giving away her secret. But when you’re trapped with the man you’ve been writing about—and he’s been writing to you—some secrets refuse to stay hidden.
Can two people who’ve been writing each other’s stories survive the plot twist neither of them saw coming?
A hilarious, heart-pounding hockey rom-com about book boyfriends coming to life, secret identities, and falling in love while dodging thieves.
290 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Susan May Warren
228 books3,868 followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Like the blue lines on a hockey rink, Blue Ox’s defenseman, Beckett Benson, also has a boundary line. He’s been forced to erect it because he needs a reminder not to let people take up residence in his heart. In his view, letting people in is “just giving them a head start on leaving.” As you get to know #49, the pride of Minnesota hockey, you’ll discover that he’s running from the past. He’s also tired of performing and of wearing ‘costumes’. The author highlights vulnerability here, not something you expect from a hockey player … and I loved it!
I loved reading about people who were brave enough to love and who discovered that they’re worthy of the thing that they’re afraid to want and ask for. The focus on rest was what kept me reading; I needed the reminder that resting isn’t quitting and it certainly isn’t weakness. The biggest impact for me was reading that “resting is trusting that you don’t have to be enough because God is.”
If you prefer action over characters, there’s plenty of tension and race-against-the-clock escapes. If you need ‘bookish’ threads throughout, there’s an author featured and interaction with the author’s fans. I feel fortunate to have found this writing duo that ensures their readers get BOTH authentic characters and adventure.
If you love a clean hockey romance, second chance themes, he falls first and secret identity tropes, and REAL heroes, check out this series. There’s still time to read book one before this one publishes!
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I loved reading about people who were brave enough to love and who discovered that they’re worthy of the thing that they’re afraid to want and ask for. The focus on rest was what kept me reading; I needed the reminder that resting isn’t quitting and it certainly isn’t weakness. The biggest impact for me was reading that “resting is trusting that you don’t have to be enough because God is.”
If you prefer action over characters, there’s plenty of tension and race-against-the-clock escapes. If you need ‘bookish’ threads throughout, there’s an author featured and interaction with the author’s fans. I feel fortunate to have found this writing duo that ensures their readers get BOTH authentic characters and adventure.
If you love a clean hockey romance, second chance themes, he falls first and secret identity tropes, and REAL heroes, check out this series. There’s still time to read book one before this one publishes!
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 3, 2026
I enjoyed this no spice Christian contemporary romance. It felt very different from the first book in this series, but was also full of some great lessons about belonging, not needing to earn God‘s love, and being who He made you to be.
Our FMC Everly is an author. An author with more than one hidden identity. At times we get to see pieces of her writing and sometimes feel like both MCs are talking directly to us as readers. Beckett, our MMC and a player on Everly‘s dad‘s hockey team, has spent his entire life trying to be good enough, and to prove that he deserves the breaks he’s been given. Currently under investigation because of false allegations, his life is stressful.
This contemporary romance blends the contemporary with the addition of suspenseful elements. With the forced proximity of enemies – courtesy of regretted teenage outbursts – these two are thrown together, first in an elevator, and then in a mall with thugs closing in. I enjoyed the sweet moments and the reminder of where our worth is found. I liked seeing past characters from Warren’s series. I look forward to reading more. The romance in this book is just kisses, intimacy level 1.5.
TW: Mentions of Steroids and Gambling, Injuries and Threats
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Our FMC Everly is an author. An author with more than one hidden identity. At times we get to see pieces of her writing and sometimes feel like both MCs are talking directly to us as readers. Beckett, our MMC and a player on Everly‘s dad‘s hockey team, has spent his entire life trying to be good enough, and to prove that he deserves the breaks he’s been given. Currently under investigation because of false allegations, his life is stressful.
This contemporary romance blends the contemporary with the addition of suspenseful elements. With the forced proximity of enemies – courtesy of regretted teenage outbursts – these two are thrown together, first in an elevator, and then in a mall with thugs closing in. I enjoyed the sweet moments and the reminder of where our worth is found. I liked seeing past characters from Warren’s series. I look forward to reading more. The romance in this book is just kisses, intimacy level 1.5.
TW: Mentions of Steroids and Gambling, Injuries and Threats
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 2, 2026
What a fun and suspenseful read! It had a good amount of humor and more suspense than I was expecting. There was also a sweet and swoony romance, a lot of depth, and a wonderful message of faith too. I absolutely adored this book!
I really liked both Everly and Beckett. She’s an author with two pen names. And the inspiration for her upcoming hockey romance is Blue Ox defenseman Beckett Benson. Beckett was super likable and endearing. He’s a reader who’s been sending secret fan mail to one of Everly’s pen names. Neither one knows the real identity of the other. Not yet, at least. The two have a past. A not-so-great one. But I loved seeing them reconnect and was rooting so hard for them.
I loved this book so much and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, lightly suspenseful read with a lot of heart and a strong message of faith. I can’t wait for book three.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I really liked both Everly and Beckett. She’s an author with two pen names. And the inspiration for her upcoming hockey romance is Blue Ox defenseman Beckett Benson. Beckett was super likable and endearing. He’s a reader who’s been sending secret fan mail to one of Everly’s pen names. Neither one knows the real identity of the other. Not yet, at least. The two have a past. A not-so-great one. But I loved seeing them reconnect and was rooting so hard for them.
I loved this book so much and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, lightly suspenseful read with a lot of heart and a strong message of faith. I can’t wait for book three.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
July 1, 2026
Holy slap shot Batman… I loved this book so much. 😂❤️
A hockey player, a romance author, secret identities, forced proximity, and a blizzard trapping them together with thieves? This story had such a fun mix of swoony romance, suspense, humor, and heart.
Beckett Benson was so much more than the tough hockey player image. Behind the stats and the reputation was someone who was tired of performing, tired of proving himself, and afraid to let anyone truly see him. I loved watching him learn that vulnerability isn’t weakness and that he doesn’t have to earn love by being perfect.
Everly was such an interesting character too. Living behind different versions of herself, she had to learn that being known and loved for who she truly is is far better than hiding behind what others expect from her. Watching these two discover they were both worthy of love was such a beautiful part of the story.
The hockey romance and bookish elements were so fun (because a romance author falling for the man she wrote about? YES PLEASE), but what impacted me most was the message about rest, identity, and trusting God. The reminder that “resting is trusting that you don’t have to be enough because God is” was such a powerful thread throughout the story.
The suspense added an unexpected layer that kept me turning pages, and I loved how the action balanced with the deeper emotional journey. This wasn’t just a hockey romance—it was a story about belonging, healing, and realizing you don’t have to become someone else to be loved.
A swoony, faith-filled hockey romance with heart, humor, and a reminder that the greatest love stories begin when we stop hiding.
A hockey player, a romance author, secret identities, forced proximity, and a blizzard trapping them together with thieves? This story had such a fun mix of swoony romance, suspense, humor, and heart.
Beckett Benson was so much more than the tough hockey player image. Behind the stats and the reputation was someone who was tired of performing, tired of proving himself, and afraid to let anyone truly see him. I loved watching him learn that vulnerability isn’t weakness and that he doesn’t have to earn love by being perfect.
Everly was such an interesting character too. Living behind different versions of herself, she had to learn that being known and loved for who she truly is is far better than hiding behind what others expect from her. Watching these two discover they were both worthy of love was such a beautiful part of the story.
The hockey romance and bookish elements were so fun (because a romance author falling for the man she wrote about? YES PLEASE), but what impacted me most was the message about rest, identity, and trusting God. The reminder that “resting is trusting that you don’t have to be enough because God is” was such a powerful thread throughout the story.
The suspense added an unexpected layer that kept me turning pages, and I loved how the action balanced with the deeper emotional journey. This wasn’t just a hockey romance—it was a story about belonging, healing, and realizing you don’t have to become someone else to be loved.
A swoony, faith-filled hockey romance with heart, humor, and a reminder that the greatest love stories begin when we stop hiding.
July 3, 2026
Lots of fun and super cute. The middle dragged a teeny bit, but then things picked back up. I enjoyed this a lot.
July 6, 2026
Don't Cross the Blue Line is vintage Susan May Warren, coupled with the new edge of her daughter Sarah and the new edge of a hockey romance series. Two books in, and I want as many of these as the duo can come up with. And considering these books are significantly shorter and lighter than I usually read, that's saying something.
As a writer, I of course identified heavily with Everly. I know the terror of the blank page intimately, and I also know the thrill of writing so long, so hard, that I lose track of time. Moreover, I identified with her because I don't have two pen names, a wig, or personas created by publishing companies and agents. But I have masked for different reasons. I have hidden parts of myself. The way Everly felt when ice was sprayed in her face, is how I have often felt and why I hid. So watching Everly find a safe place for her true self, a place for love--with Beckett, with God, and in her life--kept me so engaged I was loath to come up for air.
Beckett Benson is, of course, a more than worthy hero for Everly and for me. Like Everly, I didn't have the best first impression of him--he comes across like a "typical hockey player," for his own self-preservation and yes, so he can be seen. But as with Everly, that desire to be seen drives him, and I understand exactly where it comes from. Plus, yes, Beckett does eventually become swoony--attentive, protective, and completely masculine. Yet unlike a lot of other heroes, even in Christian and Christian-adjacent romances, Beckett isn't "too good to be true." He's human, he's sometimes dense and unfeeling, and he owns that. He learns from it, and he does so organically, not because of some contrived revelation. I rooted for him, not to win hockey matches but to win Everly's heart--and in so doing, taking a journey that would guide Beckett's heart home.
The plot itself surprised me at every turn and kept me racing through the pages. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say, I was expecting a hockey romance, which I got. But then the book swung solidly into suspense territory, and I was completely on board. That suspense, interspersed with quiet, tender moments like talking about life over day-old pastries, made for a perfectly balanced plot.
I also loved the spiritual and emotional threads interspersed in that plot. They're mostly subtle, but Don't Cross the Blue Line is one of those rare novels where subtlety shines *because* it stays mostly in the background. And when the emotional threads become a bit more overt, such as during the scene when Coach Hart confronts Beckett about his treatment of Everly--well, those pop and sparkle in ways I never expected. Plus, the emotional and spiritual concept of being truly seen--as I said, I identify heavily with it because that's a journey I'm taking right now. But even if I hadn't been on a similar journey, that thread hit all my most tender places. It hurt at times, but the pain was almost gentle, as if Someone were saying to me, "Don't be afraid of this. Sit with it. Let yourself be seen, even when it costs you something."
Overall then, Don't Cross the Blue Line is a fairly little book that packs a huge punch. I could fit in a thimble what I know about hockey, but I'd call it a brilliant slap shot. I'm already looking forward to the third book in this series and hope Susie May and Sarah can give readers many more romances like this one.
As a writer, I of course identified heavily with Everly. I know the terror of the blank page intimately, and I also know the thrill of writing so long, so hard, that I lose track of time. Moreover, I identified with her because I don't have two pen names, a wig, or personas created by publishing companies and agents. But I have masked for different reasons. I have hidden parts of myself. The way Everly felt when ice was sprayed in her face, is how I have often felt and why I hid. So watching Everly find a safe place for her true self, a place for love--with Beckett, with God, and in her life--kept me so engaged I was loath to come up for air.
Beckett Benson is, of course, a more than worthy hero for Everly and for me. Like Everly, I didn't have the best first impression of him--he comes across like a "typical hockey player," for his own self-preservation and yes, so he can be seen. But as with Everly, that desire to be seen drives him, and I understand exactly where it comes from. Plus, yes, Beckett does eventually become swoony--attentive, protective, and completely masculine. Yet unlike a lot of other heroes, even in Christian and Christian-adjacent romances, Beckett isn't "too good to be true." He's human, he's sometimes dense and unfeeling, and he owns that. He learns from it, and he does so organically, not because of some contrived revelation. I rooted for him, not to win hockey matches but to win Everly's heart--and in so doing, taking a journey that would guide Beckett's heart home.
The plot itself surprised me at every turn and kept me racing through the pages. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say, I was expecting a hockey romance, which I got. But then the book swung solidly into suspense territory, and I was completely on board. That suspense, interspersed with quiet, tender moments like talking about life over day-old pastries, made for a perfectly balanced plot.
I also loved the spiritual and emotional threads interspersed in that plot. They're mostly subtle, but Don't Cross the Blue Line is one of those rare novels where subtlety shines *because* it stays mostly in the background. And when the emotional threads become a bit more overt, such as during the scene when Coach Hart confronts Beckett about his treatment of Everly--well, those pop and sparkle in ways I never expected. Plus, the emotional and spiritual concept of being truly seen--as I said, I identify heavily with it because that's a journey I'm taking right now. But even if I hadn't been on a similar journey, that thread hit all my most tender places. It hurt at times, but the pain was almost gentle, as if Someone were saying to me, "Don't be afraid of this. Sit with it. Let yourself be seen, even when it costs you something."
Overall then, Don't Cross the Blue Line is a fairly little book that packs a huge punch. I could fit in a thimble what I know about hockey, but I'd call it a brilliant slap shot. I'm already looking forward to the third book in this series and hope Susie May and Sarah can give readers many more romances like this one.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"Holy slap shot Batman" - is one of my favorite quotes. You will have to read this perfect book to understand. I do not even know where to begin as I ponder what to write in this review. I have so many thoughts that I could write a book myself. There were so many great lessons about life outlined in this story about two people who were battling their own inner enemies of self-worth, even though they were both highly successful in their careers.
NHL player Beckett Benson and author Everly Hart (or E. J. Hartley as she is known on the front cover of her books) have a difficult past with one another. Both are hiding secrets from everyone, secrets that are explosive. I believe in divine providence; that God places people in places together for a reason, which is exactly what happens in a blackened elevator.
This was a romance with a wonderful side of suspense as Beckett and Everly get trapped in a mall with a band of thieves in the middle of the night. I was not expecting this brilliant plot twist, and it added so much to an already incredible story.
One of my favorite parts is when Everly has the light bulb moment about "languages we speak". This did not apply to literal language, but love language. It was an inspiring moment for me because sometimes people think they are so much different, when in fact their language is just not the same. However, the end result is the same if you just examine the reasons behind their language.
Vulnerability was also a key component to this story, and something every person struggles with. These authors penned a story that showed vulnerability is not a liability but an asset.
Finally, one of my favorite hymns, "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross", was the final portion of this story that laid my soul bare with the last verse - "Love so amazing, so divine demands my soul, my life, my all." Sweeter words have never been spoken or written. We can do nothing to earn God's love, and we are all worthy to be loved.
This is a Christian hockey romance, but it is packed with so much more than hockey and romance. Prepared to be wowed. This book has been on my mind for days, after finishing it. That is a sign of very good book.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
NHL player Beckett Benson and author Everly Hart (or E. J. Hartley as she is known on the front cover of her books) have a difficult past with one another. Both are hiding secrets from everyone, secrets that are explosive. I believe in divine providence; that God places people in places together for a reason, which is exactly what happens in a blackened elevator.
This was a romance with a wonderful side of suspense as Beckett and Everly get trapped in a mall with a band of thieves in the middle of the night. I was not expecting this brilliant plot twist, and it added so much to an already incredible story.
One of my favorite parts is when Everly has the light bulb moment about "languages we speak". This did not apply to literal language, but love language. It was an inspiring moment for me because sometimes people think they are so much different, when in fact their language is just not the same. However, the end result is the same if you just examine the reasons behind their language.
Vulnerability was also a key component to this story, and something every person struggles with. These authors penned a story that showed vulnerability is not a liability but an asset.
Finally, one of my favorite hymns, "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross", was the final portion of this story that laid my soul bare with the last verse - "Love so amazing, so divine demands my soul, my life, my all." Sweeter words have never been spoken or written. We can do nothing to earn God's love, and we are all worthy to be loved.
This is a Christian hockey romance, but it is packed with so much more than hockey and romance. Prepared to be wowed. This book has been on my mind for days, after finishing it. That is a sign of very good book.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 30, 2026
If you love clean hockey romance with a side of suspense, you have found your next story. Don’t Cross the Blue Line is book two in the Blue Ox Boys series by Susan May Warren and Sarah May Warren. This book can be read as a standalone. This book has a lot of internal dialogue for the Main characters, and it's almost like the characters are talking to the reader, which brought a different dynamic to this story; it was unique.
The FMC, Everly, is an author. She writes under two different pen names-one for her thrillers and one for her hockey romance. Throughout the story, we get to read clips of her story, which adds a fun dynamic. Everly has a lot of issues she is dealing with. The divorce of her parents as a teen and the struggle between jockeying for attention between her father and Bensen. So, when Everly and Bensen have a meet-cute in an elevator during a storm and end up stuck in there, secrets get released. Bensen does not know that he is talking to Everly, but rather the author’s assistant, but Everly figures out who it is at the end.
The MMC Bensen is trying to find himself and overcome doping allegations. He has had a hard time with things- the death of his father at a young age, trying to live up to the hockey legacy expectations, and more. Bensen has some secrets, and one of them is his love for hockey romance, and Everly, or Sutton Blake as she goes by, is his favorite author.
But that is not where this story ends. We find out the root of the doping allegations. And when another snowstorm hits Minnesota, and Everly and Bensen get locked in a mall together, they find themselves running from some bad characters.
Each layer of this story brought me something different that I was not expecting. I enjoyed this story a lot.
This enemies-to-lovers romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Susan and Sarah did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
The FMC, Everly, is an author. She writes under two different pen names-one for her thrillers and one for her hockey romance. Throughout the story, we get to read clips of her story, which adds a fun dynamic. Everly has a lot of issues she is dealing with. The divorce of her parents as a teen and the struggle between jockeying for attention between her father and Bensen. So, when Everly and Bensen have a meet-cute in an elevator during a storm and end up stuck in there, secrets get released. Bensen does not know that he is talking to Everly, but rather the author’s assistant, but Everly figures out who it is at the end.
The MMC Bensen is trying to find himself and overcome doping allegations. He has had a hard time with things- the death of his father at a young age, trying to live up to the hockey legacy expectations, and more. Bensen has some secrets, and one of them is his love for hockey romance, and Everly, or Sutton Blake as she goes by, is his favorite author.
But that is not where this story ends. We find out the root of the doping allegations. And when another snowstorm hits Minnesota, and Everly and Bensen get locked in a mall together, they find themselves running from some bad characters.
Each layer of this story brought me something different that I was not expecting. I enjoyed this story a lot.
This enemies-to-lovers romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Susan and Sarah did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 28, 2026
If you love clean hockey romance with a side of suspense, you have found your next story. Don’t Cross the Blue Line is book two in the Blue Ox Boys series by Susan May Warren and Sarah May Warren. This book can be read as a standalone. This book has a lot of internal dialogue for the Main characters, and it's almost like the characters are talking to the reader, which brought a different dynamic to this story; it was unique.
The FMC, Everly, is an author. She writes under two different pen names-one for her thrillers and one for her hockey romance. Throughout the story, we get to read clips of her story, which adds a fun dynamic. Everly has a lot of issues she is dealing with. The divorce of her parents as a teen and the struggle between jockeying for attention between her father and Bensen. So, when Everly and Bensen have a meet-cute in an elevator during a storm and end up stuck in there, secrets get released. Bensen does not know that he is talking to Everly, but rather the author’s assistant, but Everly figures out who it is at the end.
The MMC Bensen is trying to find himself and overcome doping allegations. He has had a hard time with things- the death of his father at a young age, trying to live up to the hockey legacy expectations, and more. Bensen has some secrets, and one of them is his love for hockey romance, and Everly, or Sutton Blake as she goes by, is his favorite author.
But that is not where this story ends. We find out the root of the doping allegations. And when another snowstorm hits Minnesota, and Everly and Bensen get locked in a mall together, they find themselves running from some bad characters.
Each layer of this story brought me something different that I was not expecting. I enjoyed this story a lot.
This enemies-to-lovers romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Susan and Sarah did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
The FMC, Everly, is an author. She writes under two different pen names-one for her thrillers and one for her hockey romance. Throughout the story, we get to read clips of her story, which adds a fun dynamic. Everly has a lot of issues she is dealing with. The divorce of her parents as a teen and the struggle between jockeying for attention between her father and Bensen. So, when Everly and Bensen have a meet-cute in an elevator during a storm and end up stuck in there, secrets get released. Bensen does not know that he is talking to Everly, but rather the author’s assistant, but Everly figures out who it is at the end.
The MMC Bensen is trying to find himself and overcome doping allegations. He has had a hard time with things- the death of his father at a young age, trying to live up to the hockey legacy expectations, and more. Bensen has some secrets, and one of them is his love for hockey romance, and Everly, or Sutton Blake as she goes by, is his favorite author.
But that is not where this story ends. We find out the root of the doping allegations. And when another snowstorm hits Minnesota, and Everly and Bensen get locked in a mall together, they find themselves running from some bad characters.
Each layer of this story brought me something different that I was not expecting. I enjoyed this story a lot.
This enemies-to-lovers romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Susan and Sarah did a great job intertwining faith elements throughout the story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a great new book in the Blue Ox Boys Series! It’s a Rom-Com with heart and drama and ruthless villains who test the survival skills of the main characters. Everly Hart is the coach’s daughter and a published author with a lot of pseudonyms. Using her fake names, she writes thrillers and romance, but prefers to remain unknown since she is writing about hockey from the point of view of some of the players on her dad’s team. Separated from her dad by a heartbreaking divorce, Everly has emotional issues with attachment and that makes the book so poignant at times. Beckett Benson, the boy who broke her heart is now a man, and hasn’t learned when not to say stupid and hurtful things. In the plot line of the absorbing story, Beck learns who he really is and who he could be. Everly learns how much her father really has loved her in spite of their distance from each other. And most importantly, Everly learns that it’s okay for people to get to know the real her. The chase scenes in the closed mall are riveting as the ingenuity of Beck and Everly are both tested as they strive to survive the night. There are so many fun escapades as they elude the killers while also getting to know one another on a personal level. I am not a fan of any sport, but after reading the two books in this series, I think I might even enjoy a hockey game as I sat and pondered which player would be best matched with which fan. Great rom-com with a fast pace and a story with a foundation of faith even as the author’s wit and masterful imagination took over and kept me totally entertained.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 4, 2026
"”But I failed you," he says, voice stripped to the studs. "Not by choosing hockey. By not learning your language…””
Don’t Cross the Blue Line by Susan and Sarah May Warren is finally here and it was worth the wait. This is the second book in The Blue Ox Boys series and I think it’s my favorite one so far.
Everly Hart is juggling a few different hats. First and foremost she’s is the Blue Ox Assistant Coach’s daughter. Second she an author and is writing under two different names. Three she receives inspiration for her sweet hockey romances from the man she hates, Beckett Benson. The man who Everly hates because of how he treated her growing up. With a deadline looming and her dad wanting her to attend hockey functions with, something is going to give.
Beckett Benson has one goal this hockey season, to clear his name for the scandal he was framed for. He doesn’t have time for Everly Hart. He doesn’t have time to looking into a team player who just might be the one who framed him. But getting stuck in the elevator with a stranger after a charity gala could change his mind. Now he is thinking he needs to be a better person to Everly. With her brushing off his attempts at being friends multiple times, Beckett isn’t willing to give up. What could go wrong?
These authors hit it out of the park with the enemies to lovers trope. I could not down the book because I had to know what was gonna happen next. There’s so many good things that happened in this book. I think my favorite part was reading about Everly and Beckett’s relationship and seeing what happened when they gave each other chance.
I can’t wait see who else gets a story in this series.
These thoughts and opinions are my own.
Don’t Cross the Blue Line by Susan and Sarah May Warren is finally here and it was worth the wait. This is the second book in The Blue Ox Boys series and I think it’s my favorite one so far.
Everly Hart is juggling a few different hats. First and foremost she’s is the Blue Ox Assistant Coach’s daughter. Second she an author and is writing under two different names. Three she receives inspiration for her sweet hockey romances from the man she hates, Beckett Benson. The man who Everly hates because of how he treated her growing up. With a deadline looming and her dad wanting her to attend hockey functions with, something is going to give.
Beckett Benson has one goal this hockey season, to clear his name for the scandal he was framed for. He doesn’t have time for Everly Hart. He doesn’t have time to looking into a team player who just might be the one who framed him. But getting stuck in the elevator with a stranger after a charity gala could change his mind. Now he is thinking he needs to be a better person to Everly. With her brushing off his attempts at being friends multiple times, Beckett isn’t willing to give up. What could go wrong?
These authors hit it out of the park with the enemies to lovers trope. I could not down the book because I had to know what was gonna happen next. There’s so many good things that happened in this book. I think my favorite part was reading about Everly and Beckett’s relationship and seeing what happened when they gave each other chance.
I can’t wait see who else gets a story in this series.
These thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Why isn’t there a way to add more stars for my review. I literally say it every time and I will say it til I have no more breath in my lungs. SUSAN MAY WARREN is legit the best author, but listen to this, add in Sarah her daughter and you have PERFECTION. 👌🏼 I didn’t think anything could top The Not So Neutral Zone but I do believe we have a winner for Don’t Cross the Blue Line. I know you can’t see me but I’m doing a happy dance. Okay, okay back down to calm.
We have an author not one pen name but 2 - EJ Hartley & Sutton Blake. Two very different genres: Sweet Hockey Romance & Thriller. She writes about hockey players one in particular, Beckett “Blue Line” Benson. He’s the main character in her hockey romance. Beckett has been secretly writing fan mail to Sutton Blake for 6 months. Little do they know the identity of each. This has one a little more suspense which of course is my thing. They get trapped in a mall together with some thieves/bad guys. It’s like they are living in their own little suspense romance life. These two have hated each other for the last 17 years but when it comes down to it they’ve totally misunderstood each other. Can love bloom when they come together to stay in a race for their very lives?
I couldn’t get enough of these two and I didn’t want the book to end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
We have an author not one pen name but 2 - EJ Hartley & Sutton Blake. Two very different genres: Sweet Hockey Romance & Thriller. She writes about hockey players one in particular, Beckett “Blue Line” Benson. He’s the main character in her hockey romance. Beckett has been secretly writing fan mail to Sutton Blake for 6 months. Little do they know the identity of each. This has one a little more suspense which of course is my thing. They get trapped in a mall together with some thieves/bad guys. It’s like they are living in their own little suspense romance life. These two have hated each other for the last 17 years but when it comes down to it they’ve totally misunderstood each other. Can love bloom when they come together to stay in a race for their very lives?
I couldn’t get enough of these two and I didn’t want the book to end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Don’t Cross the Blue Line
By Susan & Sarah May Warren
Book 2 in the Blue Ox Boys series
Rating: 5/5
Wow. I wish I could rate this story 10 out of 5! LOL. After reading the first book in the series and thoroughly enjoying it, I was excited to read an ARC of this next installment but I was not ready. This story is just so much more nuanced and complex. But how can a rom-com do this you say? They add in some suspense and action and a whole dollop of vulnerability and insecurities and you have me crying and laughing and sitting on the edge of my seat (metaphorically) trying to stay calm while I read (or have Siri read to me so I can try to multitask). This is a fabulous story about second chances (maybe 4th and 5th?), pen pals, and trusting God in the midst of crazy circumstances. I was definitely not prepared for this story and I am so looking forward to what comes next from this mother-daughter writing team. The quality of the story and writing is just so good. This needs to be a movie.
Highly recommend this unexpected but brilliant story that will make you sigh, laugh and cry and not want the story to end!
My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
By Susan & Sarah May Warren
Book 2 in the Blue Ox Boys series
Rating: 5/5
Wow. I wish I could rate this story 10 out of 5! LOL. After reading the first book in the series and thoroughly enjoying it, I was excited to read an ARC of this next installment but I was not ready. This story is just so much more nuanced and complex. But how can a rom-com do this you say? They add in some suspense and action and a whole dollop of vulnerability and insecurities and you have me crying and laughing and sitting on the edge of my seat (metaphorically) trying to stay calm while I read (or have Siri read to me so I can try to multitask). This is a fabulous story about second chances (maybe 4th and 5th?), pen pals, and trusting God in the midst of crazy circumstances. I was definitely not prepared for this story and I am so looking forward to what comes next from this mother-daughter writing team. The quality of the story and writing is just so good. This needs to be a movie.
Highly recommend this unexpected but brilliant story that will make you sigh, laugh and cry and not want the story to end!
My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Don't Cross the Blue Line is literary PERFECTION! The blend of murderous bad guys, misunderstood hunky hero, and brilliant author hiding behind her pen name is seriously fun - but when you throw in childhood hurt longing for acceptance, the oh-so-deep life lessons, and sizzling romance - it takes a great book to a whole 'nother level.
So obviously, I loved this latest hockey romantic suspense, and since the romantic factor is really high here, that's saying something - because while I enjoy that, I prefer the high-stakes chases. Don't Cross the Blue Line just has both in the perfect combo, though.
I can tell that I'm going to be recommending this book often - and I already have - because it's just that good. But it's the lessons that are going to stick with me the most, I think - that sometimes love speaks different languages, and we have to learn how to understand the one that's being spoken to us - that I'm going to be pondering for a long time.
So whether you like sports, or fun mysteries, romance, or whodunnits, Don't Cross the Blue Line needs to be on your TBR list NOW.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
So obviously, I loved this latest hockey romantic suspense, and since the romantic factor is really high here, that's saying something - because while I enjoy that, I prefer the high-stakes chases. Don't Cross the Blue Line just has both in the perfect combo, though.
I can tell that I'm going to be recommending this book often - and I already have - because it's just that good. But it's the lessons that are going to stick with me the most, I think - that sometimes love speaks different languages, and we have to learn how to understand the one that's being spoken to us - that I'm going to be pondering for a long time.
So whether you like sports, or fun mysteries, romance, or whodunnits, Don't Cross the Blue Line needs to be on your TBR list NOW.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 7, 2026
Loved the second entry in the Blue Ox Boys stories! Everly is an author hiding her real identity; Beckett is a hockey star afraid of letting his true self show because he has to be the best at everything. These two have a bit of a rivalry from the past that has shaped who they are as adults, but, when they are thrown together in a closed mall during a blizzard, they soon realize that not only do they have more in common then either realized. They also have some big feelings to deal with together!
You don't have to be a hockey fan to love this story, but it adds to the excitement. There is a little bit of everything in this book - hockey, romance, thrills! More than fighting bad guys, Beckett and Everly need to fight for each other against the prejudices each one holds.
*Author with a secret identity FMC (and coach's daughter with father-daughter relationship problems)
*Super star hockey player MMC with some self-esteem issues
*Bad guys chasing them in a mall after hours
*Secret pen pal letters!
*Clean, closed door (kissing only, no swearing)
*Christian values - themes of God's love and identity in Christ
You don't have to be a hockey fan to love this story, but it adds to the excitement. There is a little bit of everything in this book - hockey, romance, thrills! More than fighting bad guys, Beckett and Everly need to fight for each other against the prejudices each one holds.
*Author with a secret identity FMC (and coach's daughter with father-daughter relationship problems)
*Super star hockey player MMC with some self-esteem issues
*Bad guys chasing them in a mall after hours
*Secret pen pal letters!
*Clean, closed door (kissing only, no swearing)
*Christian values - themes of God's love and identity in Christ
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Don’t Cross the Blue Line by Sarah and Susan May Warren is a romance lover’s story. Both heroines have issues with each other and other items in their lives. In order to allow love to come into their hearts, they have to learn how to heal from those past hurts. Warren does a wonderful job at internal monologue that both characters possess. Readers will truly feel how they feel about each other. As for the setting, being a HUGE hockey fan, I love the idea and concept of hockey players off the ice. It is nice when I spend so much time with their games that I can see another side of the characters. As for the romance, it fits nicely into the romance genre. Plenty of emotions and questions pinging around on the pages. Overall, Don’t Cross the Blue Line by Sarah and Susan May Warren fits nicely into the hockey romance category. Readers who enjoy that genre should pick up this story.
I received a complimentary copy of Don't Cross the Blue Line by Sarah and Susan May Warren from Sunrise Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Don't Cross the Blue Line by Sarah and Susan May Warren from Sunrise Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rating 4.25
I loved how the authors wrote this story, it felt like the main characters had a conversation with the readers and that we could see some internal thoughts and feelings which we do not always are able to see.
Everly and Beckett clearly had a lot of chemistry, but also a lot of past history between them which caused a wall and wrong assumptions.
This story flowed easily. The danger the characters were in during their shut in in the mall showed how well they could work together finding their way out of the situation. Like most of us, they could only see the future when they realised what from their past was holding them back. Expectation we sometimes put on our shoulders weighing us down, past hurt which makes us place barriers around our hearts.
I don’t know much about hockey, but the writing made me feel like I was there on the ice with the players.
This was fun but also with a dash of suspense.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I loved how the authors wrote this story, it felt like the main characters had a conversation with the readers and that we could see some internal thoughts and feelings which we do not always are able to see.
Everly and Beckett clearly had a lot of chemistry, but also a lot of past history between them which caused a wall and wrong assumptions.
This story flowed easily. The danger the characters were in during their shut in in the mall showed how well they could work together finding their way out of the situation. Like most of us, they could only see the future when they realised what from their past was holding them back. Expectation we sometimes put on our shoulders weighing us down, past hurt which makes us place barriers around our hearts.
I don’t know much about hockey, but the writing made me feel like I was there on the ice with the players.
This was fun but also with a dash of suspense.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
July 10, 2026
Book two in The Blue Ox Boys series is full of fun adventures.
Stranded in a closed mall with the one person who has caused you more pain and hurt than you can think of, being chased by very mean guys, and dealing with a snowstorm at the same time. Individually, each of these things can cause issues, but put them all together and they are overwhelming.
However, with the two authors of this book, there is guaranteed to be plenty of fun and humor, as well as tender moments.
The author duo of Susan and Sarah May Warren is so amazing. I truly enjoy all that these two write. They are each wonderful authors and very well respected in the writing world, but put them together, and it’s dynamite!
This series has me wanting to get out on an ice rink and do a little skating. I’ve loved learning all about the hockey world, but this book also threw in some survival tricks. However, I’m hoping never to be trapped in a closed mall during a snowstorm with people chasing me!
These two authors have honestly made my day, and I look forward to the next books in this series.
Stranded in a closed mall with the one person who has caused you more pain and hurt than you can think of, being chased by very mean guys, and dealing with a snowstorm at the same time. Individually, each of these things can cause issues, but put them all together and they are overwhelming.
However, with the two authors of this book, there is guaranteed to be plenty of fun and humor, as well as tender moments.
The author duo of Susan and Sarah May Warren is so amazing. I truly enjoy all that these two write. They are each wonderful authors and very well respected in the writing world, but put them together, and it’s dynamite!
This series has me wanting to get out on an ice rink and do a little skating. I’ve loved learning all about the hockey world, but this book also threw in some survival tricks. However, I’m hoping never to be trapped in a closed mall during a snowstorm with people chasing me!
These two authors have honestly made my day, and I look forward to the next books in this series.
June 6, 2026
This book was so good in ways I did not expect! Don’t Cross the Blue Line is another 5 star read from this super- talented mother-daughter duo.
This book has everything. It’s a delightful rom-com with suspense, bad guys, and enough life lessons to evoke some tears.
Everly Hart is the daughter of the Blue Ox’s coach and Susie author E.J Hartley. Everly also secretly writes romance novels as Sutton Blake. Teammate Beckett Benson is her inspiration for her latest romance.
Beckett “Blue Line” Benson is a player for The Blue Ox. When Beckett faces unfounded accusations he is in the middle of a PR nightmare.
Everly and Beckett find themselves locked in a closed mall, hiding from some very scary men. Their survival includes tense moments, heart to heart talks, and antics reminiscent of Home Alone.
I absolutely loved this book. It was sometimes fun and light hearted, sometimes suspenseful, and sometimes tear invoking. This forced proximity romance deals with issues of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the importance of understanding a situation instead of jumping to conclusions.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.
This book has everything. It’s a delightful rom-com with suspense, bad guys, and enough life lessons to evoke some tears.
Everly Hart is the daughter of the Blue Ox’s coach and Susie author E.J Hartley. Everly also secretly writes romance novels as Sutton Blake. Teammate Beckett Benson is her inspiration for her latest romance.
Beckett “Blue Line” Benson is a player for The Blue Ox. When Beckett faces unfounded accusations he is in the middle of a PR nightmare.
Everly and Beckett find themselves locked in a closed mall, hiding from some very scary men. Their survival includes tense moments, heart to heart talks, and antics reminiscent of Home Alone.
I absolutely loved this book. It was sometimes fun and light hearted, sometimes suspenseful, and sometimes tear invoking. This forced proximity romance deals with issues of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the importance of understanding a situation instead of jumping to conclusions.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.
June 15, 2026
What a ride!
I absolutely loved the first book in this series, couldn’t wait for the second, and it did not disappoint!
Everly and Beckett weren’t just enemies, they despised each other from childhood. What will it take for them to fall in love? A lot! Including but not limited to getting stuck in an elevator during a blackout, more than one mistaken identity, secret pen pals, several novels, plus getting locked in a mall overnight during a blizzard with no less than 4 men who are trying to end them. And if that’s not enough excitement, toss in a media frenzy, a doping scandal, and a multitude of misunderstandings.
Susan May Warren is always a must-read, but add in her daughter Sarah May? A brilliant duo! I had to stop and re-read lines so many times because the writing is so clever, so hilarious, so beautiful, so inspiring.
Now anticipating book 3!
I absolutely loved the first book in this series, couldn’t wait for the second, and it did not disappoint!
Everly and Beckett weren’t just enemies, they despised each other from childhood. What will it take for them to fall in love? A lot! Including but not limited to getting stuck in an elevator during a blackout, more than one mistaken identity, secret pen pals, several novels, plus getting locked in a mall overnight during a blizzard with no less than 4 men who are trying to end them. And if that’s not enough excitement, toss in a media frenzy, a doping scandal, and a multitude of misunderstandings.
Susan May Warren is always a must-read, but add in her daughter Sarah May? A brilliant duo! I had to stop and re-read lines so many times because the writing is so clever, so hilarious, so beautiful, so inspiring.
Now anticipating book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wonderful addition to the series, captivating and unputdownable! I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend Don't Cross the Blue Line by Sarah and Susan May Warren!
Everly Hart and Beckett ‘Blue Line’ Benson star in this wonderful edition of The Blue Ox Boys series where secrets, past wounds, and danger abound.
Both Everly & Beckett have issues they need to deal with, including ones with each other from a lifetime ago. (I loved the elevator scene during a Gala). Then they get trapped in a closed down mall during a snowstorm with some very bad guys who are out to make an example of his teammate. "Suddenly they’re living their own romantic suspense novel".
Romantic comedy, with suspense and depth. You will love it!
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Everly Hart and Beckett ‘Blue Line’ Benson star in this wonderful edition of The Blue Ox Boys series where secrets, past wounds, and danger abound.
Both Everly & Beckett have issues they need to deal with, including ones with each other from a lifetime ago. (I loved the elevator scene during a Gala). Then they get trapped in a closed down mall during a snowstorm with some very bad guys who are out to make an example of his teammate. "Suddenly they’re living their own romantic suspense novel".
Romantic comedy, with suspense and depth. You will love it!
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Two hurting people. They have been hurting for years. A night stuck in a dark elevator that breaks down starts a change they couldn't see coming. I enjoyed this book and how both the male and female characters had to work through years of pain to figure out who they are. And some of that pain was caused directly from one character to the other. Circumstances find them trapped, again, and they must choose between the burt between them or getting out. Working together could bring healing or more hurt. The choice is theirs. But it's not easy to simply let go of 15 years of hurt.
I enjoyed this book, the arc of healing and knowing you're seen for who you are, not for what you do that builds throughout the story.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All thoughts are my own.
I enjoyed this book, the arc of healing and knowing you're seen for who you are, not for what you do that builds throughout the story.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All thoughts are my own.
June 30, 2026
This was such a fun read! With plenty of romance and suspense, I was captivated from start to finish. I loved the story of Everly and Beckett, and these characters brought to life vulnerability, second chances, and courage to face painful pasts. I particularly enjoyed the action-filled adventure that brings the hero and heroine together. This story contained a mixture of raw moments, humor, tension, and romance guaranteed to appeal to a wide range of readers.
I highly recommend this author duo. The writing is clean, imaginative, and delightful. I cannot wait to see what they come up with next!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I highly recommend this author duo. The writing is clean, imaginative, and delightful. I cannot wait to see what they come up with next!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 6, 2026
Laughter and Tears Wrapped in a Meaningful Story
Maybe because Everly is an author. Or maybe because she felt distant from her dad. Or maybe because I loved her voice from the start. But whatever it was, I connected to this heroine. I couldn’t stop cheering at all the forced proximity.
I did not expect the suspense angle of the book, but it fits perfectly with Everly’s superpowers. After the first few chapter, the book refused to let me put it down.
The spiritual journeys and especially Beckett’s realization about his father had me in tears. Some fiction is truer than reality, and that’s how this story felt to me.
If you love hockey, this book is a must read. I don’t know much about hockey, and it reeled me in and kept me plugged in to the very last sentence.
Maybe because Everly is an author. Or maybe because she felt distant from her dad. Or maybe because I loved her voice from the start. But whatever it was, I connected to this heroine. I couldn’t stop cheering at all the forced proximity.
I did not expect the suspense angle of the book, but it fits perfectly with Everly’s superpowers. After the first few chapter, the book refused to let me put it down.
The spiritual journeys and especially Beckett’s realization about his father had me in tears. Some fiction is truer than reality, and that’s how this story felt to me.
If you love hockey, this book is a must read. I don’t know much about hockey, and it reeled me in and kept me plugged in to the very last sentence.
July 9, 2026
It's more of a 4 1/2 stars. i really liked the characters, romance/suspense writer discovers her hockey player nemesis writes her letters under her pen name when they are trapped in an elevator together.
Everly and Beckett have a lot of past history between them concerning her dad and his job as hockey coach that puts a wall between them. I liked the chemistry between the two characters and the banter. My favorite part was the suspense that was thrown into the middle of the story that involved another hockey player, Cole, but Everly and Beckett were pulled into it. They both had to learn to trust that God was in control and to not let their pasts define them. I don't really know hockey but love watching the game so this was fun to read about when the players were on the ice.
Everly and Beckett have a lot of past history between them concerning her dad and his job as hockey coach that puts a wall between them. I liked the chemistry between the two characters and the banter. My favorite part was the suspense that was thrown into the middle of the story that involved another hockey player, Cole, but Everly and Beckett were pulled into it. They both had to learn to trust that God was in control and to not let their pasts define them. I don't really know hockey but love watching the game so this was fun to read about when the players were on the ice.
July 11, 2026
Hockey for the win!
I met Susan many years ago, at a writer’s conference. I am ashamed to say that I never read her books until a few weeks ago. This Blue Ox series appeared in my Amazon list, and I read the first one! Then the second. I’m hooked!
I love the collaboration with her daughter! I’ve been reading hockey books for the past couple of years, and even though I have never been to an actual game, I love hockey! These books are solidly in my reading “line up.” (See what I did there?)
This book, as with the first in this Blue Ox Boys was a great read. I love the story lines, the fast paced movement of the writing, and of course the romance!
I look forward to reading all of the Warren books now! Not just the hockey series!
I met Susan many years ago, at a writer’s conference. I am ashamed to say that I never read her books until a few weeks ago. This Blue Ox series appeared in my Amazon list, and I read the first one! Then the second. I’m hooked!
I love the collaboration with her daughter! I’ve been reading hockey books for the past couple of years, and even though I have never been to an actual game, I love hockey! These books are solidly in my reading “line up.” (See what I did there?)
This book, as with the first in this Blue Ox Boys was a great read. I love the story lines, the fast paced movement of the writing, and of course the romance!
I look forward to reading all of the Warren books now! Not just the hockey series!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
They did it again!
I loved these characters. I loved how real they felt. I loved the emotions each character evoked in me as a reader, but also to the other characters on the page. While Everly and Beckett do have some baggage that made me tear up, this book also had me giggling and my heart racing from them running and outwitting bad guys! It was cool to see Everly's writer knowledge help her and Beckett as they navigated being locked in a mall overnight. There were some nostalgic vibes for me for sure thinking about wandering around a mall.
Read this for:
Die Hard x Rom-com
Hidden identity 🖊
She winks first
Hockey ⛸️
Subtle faith elements
Protective hero 🏒
The Zamboni!
Anonymous letters ✉️
I already want to reread this. I read most of this in my hotel room or poolside while on vacation, but I finished it up on the plane ride home and I legit had to hold back the tears in my middle seat between two strangers because of how emotional this one got. It was so beautiful.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing and the authors! All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved these characters. I loved how real they felt. I loved the emotions each character evoked in me as a reader, but also to the other characters on the page. While Everly and Beckett do have some baggage that made me tear up, this book also had me giggling and my heart racing from them running and outwitting bad guys! It was cool to see Everly's writer knowledge help her and Beckett as they navigated being locked in a mall overnight. There were some nostalgic vibes for me for sure thinking about wandering around a mall.
Read this for:
Die Hard x Rom-com
Hidden identity 🖊
She winks first
Hockey ⛸️
Subtle faith elements
Protective hero 🏒
The Zamboni!
Anonymous letters ✉️
I already want to reread this. I read most of this in my hotel room or poolside while on vacation, but I finished it up on the plane ride home and I legit had to hold back the tears in my middle seat between two strangers because of how emotional this one got. It was so beautiful.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing and the authors! All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Where do I start? Don't Cross the Blue Line has it all—secret dual identities, anonymous pen pals, close proximity, being trapped in a mall with bad guys during a blizzard, a writer, a hockey player, family dynamics, and past hurts. The characters were relatable and realistic, with lessons to learn such as learning what it means to really rest on the Lord. What a wonderful story of healing, worth, and God's love.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 6, 2026
The amount of times I legitimately laughed out loud while reading this book. Not the forced, polite chuckle kind of laugh, but the real deal, shoulders shaking with the possibility of a snort (or two) slipping out kind of laugh. This book was everything I wanted it to be. My first instinct when I turned the last page was to begin again. Susan and Sarah had me cracking up and tearing up (sometimes in the same paragraph!) and rooting for these characters until the very last sentence. Everything a hockey rom com story should be!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love these characters. Beckett and Everly have been at odds with each other for years.
Everly hides behind a few different pen names because she is afraid of truly being seen. Beckett is carrying the weight of so many expectations it's amazing he is still standing.
When they are trapped in a mall after hours and trying to survive being caught in the middle of some shady business dealings, secrets may come out.
I loved this book.
Everly hides behind a few different pen names because she is afraid of truly being seen. Beckett is carrying the weight of so many expectations it's amazing he is still standing.
When they are trapped in a mall after hours and trying to survive being caught in the middle of some shady business dealings, secrets may come out.
I loved this book.
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