What do you think?
Rate this book
The Way Back To You
A second chance hockey romance about first love, heartbreak, and the family they never got to be.
Kendall chose survival over love.
Three years ago, she walked away from Kai—the only man she’s ever loved—keeping a life-changing secret that shattered their future. Now she’s a single mom, determined to protect her son at all costs…even if it means never telling Kai the truth.
Kai has spent the last three years outrunning heartbreak. A driven, type-A professional hockey player, his life looks perfect from the outside—but he’s never recovered from losing Kendall. And deep down, he knows he never will.
When Kendall suddenly reappears, the past he tried to bury comes rushing back. But this time, she’s not alone.
As buried truths come to light, Kai and Kendall are forced to face the love they lost, the pain they never healed from, and the family they might still have a chance to become.
In the end, some loves don’t fade…they wait.
A deeply emotional second chance romance
Secret child, First love / lost love, Single mom heroine, Professional hockey romance, Found family, emotional healing
Kendall chose survival over love.
Three years ago, she walked away from Kai—the only man she’s ever loved—keeping a life-changing secret that shattered their future. Now she’s a single mom, determined to protect her son at all costs…even if it means never telling Kai the truth.
Kai has spent the last three years outrunning heartbreak. A driven, type-A professional hockey player, his life looks perfect from the outside—but he’s never recovered from losing Kendall. And deep down, he knows he never will.
When Kendall suddenly reappears, the past he tried to bury comes rushing back. But this time, she’s not alone.
As buried truths come to light, Kai and Kendall are forced to face the love they lost, the pain they never healed from, and the family they might still have a chance to become.
In the end, some loves don’t fade…they wait.
A deeply emotional second chance romance
Secret child, First love / lost love, Single mom heroine, Professional hockey romance, Found family, emotional healing
453 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2026
About the author
Hayden Fox
1 book35 followersHayden Fox is an author, educator, and mother that writes stories with heat and heart that break you apart... then stitch you back together again.
The Way Back To You is her debut novel. it is a second chance hockey romance about first love, heartbreak, and family.
Hayden is excited to bring Kai & Kendall's love story to readers across the world
The Way Back To You is her debut novel. it is a second chance hockey romance about first love, heartbreak, and family.
Hayden is excited to bring Kai & Kendall's love story to readers across the world
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
June 17, 2026
The Way Back to You is true to it's name, this is a beautifully raw, deeply emotional, and vulnerable story that will completely hit you right in the heart with all the feels. Seriously, though, I lost track of how many times I annotated, “Well, damn…” in this book! 💜 This romance follows the complex, layered history between professional hockey player, Kai, and his childhood best friend turned stranger, Kendall. With a dual POV, this story alternates between past and present timelines.
What I loved most about this release is the incredible representation. It features a interracial love story with two BIPOC leads, which feels so rare to see in new releases, and I want to celebrate it. Fox’s writing style is fluid and addictive, pulling you into a story that handles incredibly tough topics with so much care. The mental health representation here is so raw and honest. Kai’s struggles with anxiety and his on-page panic attacks were written so authentically that I found myself thinking, “Wow, is he me?” I also deeply appreciated the focus on healing, specifically how the story advocates for therapy and couples counseling to work through generational trauma and their shared past.
Beyond the heavy themes, there is a cozy sense of found family. The scenes featuring Kendall’s son, Akio, were some of my favorites, they were written with such sweetness and added a light, heartwarming layer to an otherwise intense story. I loved Stella, too! 🐾 I also have to give a shout-out to the character growth. Seeing the characters reach a level of emotional maturity where they could be the bigger person and offer forgiveness (even to certain characters, that I felt were pretty mean to them) was really moving.
I have to be completely real, the final quarter of this book is an absolute emotional rollercoaster that left my jaw on the floor. It tackles an intense amount of pain and a high level of drama that I wasn’t expecting. The themes were heavy, and I was completely shocked. I felt so bad for the characters, especially Kai. However, the happily ever after is so fiercely earned, and by the end, I really wished for nothing but the utmost peace and happiness for this family.
If you love an intense romance with incredible emotional depth and a story that will take your heart on a journey, you definitely need to check this indie release out!
Thank you to author Hayden Fox and Fox Cabin Publishing for an advanced reader copy of this book for review consideration. I am choosing to write this review voluntarily, and these are my honest opinions.
Perfect if you love:
💜 Childhood friends to lovers with a past
✨️ "It's always been you"
💜 Hurt/Comfort
✨️ BIPOC Representation - FMC and MMC
💜 Adoption Representation
✨️ Interracial Romance
🩷 Heartfelt Angst
✨️ Found Family (Akio and Stella are the cutest!)
💛 Deep psychological trauma and healing
🩷 Mental Health Representation - Anxiety, post-partum depression, PTSD, and mental health therapy advocacy
What I loved most about this release is the incredible representation. It features a interracial love story with two BIPOC leads, which feels so rare to see in new releases, and I want to celebrate it. Fox’s writing style is fluid and addictive, pulling you into a story that handles incredibly tough topics with so much care. The mental health representation here is so raw and honest. Kai’s struggles with anxiety and his on-page panic attacks were written so authentically that I found myself thinking, “Wow, is he me?” I also deeply appreciated the focus on healing, specifically how the story advocates for therapy and couples counseling to work through generational trauma and their shared past.
Beyond the heavy themes, there is a cozy sense of found family. The scenes featuring Kendall’s son, Akio, were some of my favorites, they were written with such sweetness and added a light, heartwarming layer to an otherwise intense story. I loved Stella, too! 🐾 I also have to give a shout-out to the character growth. Seeing the characters reach a level of emotional maturity where they could be the bigger person and offer forgiveness (even to certain characters, that I felt were pretty mean to them) was really moving.
I have to be completely real, the final quarter of this book is an absolute emotional rollercoaster that left my jaw on the floor. It tackles an intense amount of pain and a high level of drama that I wasn’t expecting. The themes were heavy, and I was completely shocked. I felt so bad for the characters, especially Kai. However, the happily ever after is so fiercely earned, and by the end, I really wished for nothing but the utmost peace and happiness for this family.
If you love an intense romance with incredible emotional depth and a story that will take your heart on a journey, you definitely need to check this indie release out!
Thank you to author Hayden Fox and Fox Cabin Publishing for an advanced reader copy of this book for review consideration. I am choosing to write this review voluntarily, and these are my honest opinions.
Perfect if you love:
💜 Childhood friends to lovers with a past
✨️ "It's always been you"
💜 Hurt/Comfort
✨️ BIPOC Representation - FMC and MMC
💜 Adoption Representation
✨️ Interracial Romance
🩷 Heartfelt Angst
✨️ Found Family (Akio and Stella are the cutest!)
💛 Deep psychological trauma and healing
🩷 Mental Health Representation - Anxiety, post-partum depression, PTSD, and mental health therapy advocacy
May 13, 2026
Packed full of raw emotions. I was torn between finishing and savoring this one. The Relationship between kai and kendall is beautiful and real. Kai is the sweetest and most caring man I have ever read about. The way he goes above and beyond. New book boyfriend unlocked. ✔️
Kendall, I relate with so much. She has such a resilient heart.
She never gave up and always tried her hardest. I just adore her and Akio.
The heavy topics were done beautifully.
The dual time line? Absolutely one of my favorite parts. Getting to really know Kai and Kendall in their younger years. Growing, learning and evolving together. Simply perfect.
I was so emotionally throughout, whether it be sadness, extreme heart break or just pure happiness. I love when a book can make me FEEL. And Hayden definitely made me feel all the FEELS. 😭❤️
When I say this was one of my favorite reads from this year, I wholeheartedly mean it. These two will live in my heart forever and always.
A huge thanks to Hayden Fox for the chance to read and review early. These are all of my honest thoughts and opinions.
I will forever recommend this one.
Releases on June 16th but you can preorder now!
Favorite quotes 💜
“Is this what being a parent feels like? A love so full you feel like you can’t breathe? Watching your heart walk around outside your body in the form of a miniature version of yourself?”
“Kai is the sun. He always has been. He might be torrential downpours and turbulent storm clouds to everyone else. But to me he felt like sunshine. A warm golden light poured through an open window.”
“ I need to feel her body detonate with pleasure because of how much she wants this and how undeniably perfect we are together.”
Kendall, I relate with so much. She has such a resilient heart.
She never gave up and always tried her hardest. I just adore her and Akio.
The heavy topics were done beautifully.
The dual time line? Absolutely one of my favorite parts. Getting to really know Kai and Kendall in their younger years. Growing, learning and evolving together. Simply perfect.
I was so emotionally throughout, whether it be sadness, extreme heart break or just pure happiness. I love when a book can make me FEEL. And Hayden definitely made me feel all the FEELS. 😭❤️
When I say this was one of my favorite reads from this year, I wholeheartedly mean it. These two will live in my heart forever and always.
A huge thanks to Hayden Fox for the chance to read and review early. These are all of my honest thoughts and opinions.
I will forever recommend this one.
Releases on June 16th but you can preorder now!
Favorite quotes 💜
“Is this what being a parent feels like? A love so full you feel like you can’t breathe? Watching your heart walk around outside your body in the form of a miniature version of yourself?”
“Kai is the sun. He always has been. He might be torrential downpours and turbulent storm clouds to everyone else. But to me he felt like sunshine. A warm golden light poured through an open window.”
“ I need to feel her body detonate with pleasure because of how much she wants this and how undeniably perfect we are together.”
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
ARC review -⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book completely consumed me emotionally 😭🤍
What starts as a second chance romance between childhood best friends slowly unfolds into something so much deeper about love, guilt, healing, family, and learning how to stay when things become painful and complicated.
Kai and Kendall have known each other since they were children. They grew up side by side, became best friends, fell in love, lost each other, and somehow found their way back together years later carrying unresolved pain, unspoken fears, and far too much history between them.
One of my favorite things about this story was the dual timeline. The transitions between past and present felt seamless, and every flashback added another emotional layer to their relationship. Watching their friendship slowly evolve into love while seeing them struggle to rebuild trust in the present made every moment hit so much harder.
And honestly… this book shattered me emotionally.
Kendall’s character broke my heart. Her insecurities run so deep, and so much of her life is shaped by guilt, fear, and the belief that she is somehow “too much” for the people she loves. Watching her carry that emotional weight while still loving so fiercely was devastating.
But what made this story feel so special is that it never forced either character into the role of “the bad one.” They were both hurt. Both flawed. Both trying. The story gives them space to be messy, traumatized, vulnerable, and deeply human.
And Kai Matsumoto 😭🤍
He completely stole my heart.
The way he loves Kendall is patient, protective, unwavering, and all-consuming, but what impacted me most was seeing the cracks in him too. Seeing the caretaker slowly unravel under the pressure of everything he carries made their relationship feel incredibly balanced and real.
Their emotional growth throughout the story felt so genuine. Nothing was magically fixed overnight. They had to confront years of pain, misunderstandings, family wounds, abandonment, and fear, and that made every step toward healing feel earned.
And Akio 😭🤍
He brought so much warmth and tenderness to the story. The little family they slowly build together became the emotional heart of the book for me.
What surprised me most was how much depth this romance had beyond the relationship itself. The story explores family expectations, identity, emotional manipulation, mental health, grief, and the terrifying vulnerability that comes with loving someone enough to let them truly see you.
There were multiple moments where this book had me genuinely stressed, heartbroken, and emotionally overwhelmed… only to turn around and heal me again a few chapters later 😭
At its core, this story is about two people learning that love isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying. About choosing each other even through grief, fear, uncertainty, and all the messy parts of being human.
Kai and Kendall will stay with me for a very long time 🤍
This book completely consumed me emotionally 😭🤍
What starts as a second chance romance between childhood best friends slowly unfolds into something so much deeper about love, guilt, healing, family, and learning how to stay when things become painful and complicated.
Kai and Kendall have known each other since they were children. They grew up side by side, became best friends, fell in love, lost each other, and somehow found their way back together years later carrying unresolved pain, unspoken fears, and far too much history between them.
One of my favorite things about this story was the dual timeline. The transitions between past and present felt seamless, and every flashback added another emotional layer to their relationship. Watching their friendship slowly evolve into love while seeing them struggle to rebuild trust in the present made every moment hit so much harder.
And honestly… this book shattered me emotionally.
Kendall’s character broke my heart. Her insecurities run so deep, and so much of her life is shaped by guilt, fear, and the belief that she is somehow “too much” for the people she loves. Watching her carry that emotional weight while still loving so fiercely was devastating.
But what made this story feel so special is that it never forced either character into the role of “the bad one.” They were both hurt. Both flawed. Both trying. The story gives them space to be messy, traumatized, vulnerable, and deeply human.
And Kai Matsumoto 😭🤍
He completely stole my heart.
The way he loves Kendall is patient, protective, unwavering, and all-consuming, but what impacted me most was seeing the cracks in him too. Seeing the caretaker slowly unravel under the pressure of everything he carries made their relationship feel incredibly balanced and real.
Their emotional growth throughout the story felt so genuine. Nothing was magically fixed overnight. They had to confront years of pain, misunderstandings, family wounds, abandonment, and fear, and that made every step toward healing feel earned.
And Akio 😭🤍
He brought so much warmth and tenderness to the story. The little family they slowly build together became the emotional heart of the book for me.
What surprised me most was how much depth this romance had beyond the relationship itself. The story explores family expectations, identity, emotional manipulation, mental health, grief, and the terrifying vulnerability that comes with loving someone enough to let them truly see you.
There were multiple moments where this book had me genuinely stressed, heartbroken, and emotionally overwhelmed… only to turn around and heal me again a few chapters later 😭
At its core, this story is about two people learning that love isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying. About choosing each other even through grief, fear, uncertainty, and all the messy parts of being human.
Kai and Kendall will stay with me for a very long time 🤍
May 7, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author.
This book was so incredibly well written and the characters had so much depth. I went through a range of emotions while reading and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. I truly felt like I knew these people and I was heavily invested in their story. Both Kai and Kendall face mental health concerns and it was nice to see it so well represented.
Kai is such a kind hearted man and I was really rooting for him throughout the story. He has his share of setbacks and then some, but he finally finds the love and happiness he deserves. Kendall is an incredibly strong woman who made some tough decisions when she was younger and faced with life changing challenges. She’s a natural caretaker who tries to accommodate others above herself. I loved watching her finally find her much deserved happy ending!
Their story concludes flawlessly. I feel everything was addressed and didn’t leave me hanging at the end. If you enjoy reading books that keep you hooked until the last page, this is a must read!
This book was so incredibly well written and the characters had so much depth. I went through a range of emotions while reading and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. I truly felt like I knew these people and I was heavily invested in their story. Both Kai and Kendall face mental health concerns and it was nice to see it so well represented.
Kai is such a kind hearted man and I was really rooting for him throughout the story. He has his share of setbacks and then some, but he finally finds the love and happiness he deserves. Kendall is an incredibly strong woman who made some tough decisions when she was younger and faced with life changing challenges. She’s a natural caretaker who tries to accommodate others above herself. I loved watching her finally find her much deserved happy ending!
Their story concludes flawlessly. I feel everything was addressed and didn’t leave me hanging at the end. If you enjoy reading books that keep you hooked until the last page, this is a must read!
July 29, 2026
Thank you Hayden Fox, for the advanced reader copy of your debut novel The Way Back to You.
My first thoughts as I read this were that Kendall is hilarious and sassy and I love her so much. Kai is great too, don’t get me wrong, but Kendall, that’s my girl.
“What is it with these hockey guys? Is unlimited sex appeal a prerequisite to playing in the NHL?”
This one had so much emotional depth to it. I’ve been fully in my hockey era, and this had hockey, yes, but it also had a beautiful love story, finding their way back to eachother, forgiveness, some family drama, danger, green flags galore, devastation, rebuilding, and some spiiice 🥰
Some FAV quotes:
“Kai, my oldest friend, the love of my life. The father of my child and keeper of my heart. The only man that could worship my soul.”
“When I met him, it was as if my heart seemed to whisper, ah there you are, I’ve been looking for you,”
My first thoughts as I read this were that Kendall is hilarious and sassy and I love her so much. Kai is great too, don’t get me wrong, but Kendall, that’s my girl.
“What is it with these hockey guys? Is unlimited sex appeal a prerequisite to playing in the NHL?”
This one had so much emotional depth to it. I’ve been fully in my hockey era, and this had hockey, yes, but it also had a beautiful love story, finding their way back to eachother, forgiveness, some family drama, danger, green flags galore, devastation, rebuilding, and some spiiice 🥰
Some FAV quotes:
“Kai, my oldest friend, the love of my life. The father of my child and keeper of my heart. The only man that could worship my soul.”
“When I met him, it was as if my heart seemed to whisper, ah there you are, I’ve been looking for you,”
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this incredible debut novel from Hayden Fox! This is a slow burn, second chance romance, best friends turned lovers…. they are torn apart by a life-changing secret, and find their way back to each other, putting in the hard work to heal, forgive, and create a new future.
I loved Kendall and Kai so much. They are good people who struggled, hurt and lost one another, and still remained deeply committed to each other through fear, pain, and growth (once back in each others lives). They aren’t perfect and they both go through the range of emotions - Their relationship felt very human and very real.
The mental health representation (both PPD and general grief) especially hit home for me. As a mom who has struggled with PPD/PPA myself, some of Kendall’s thoughts and experiences landed hard. I appreciated so deeply the honest portrayal of postpartum depression, healing, and the grace she learned to extend toward her past hurting self. It felt compassionate, nuanced, and incredibly important.
I also loved seeing therapy and counselling represented in such a healthy way. Therapy can be so beneficial for people to build healthier communication, understanding, and emotional skills. Marriage and long-term relationships inevitably involve moments where we hurt or disappoint one another — we’re all human. I appreciated that the book allowed space for growth - both as individuals and as a couple - instead of perfection.
I loved the parents we got to see in Kendall and Kai to Akio. Watching Kai step into fatherhood and seeing how deeply they both loved and cared for their son was genuinely beautiful.
This was a solidly good read. I really enjoyed it, and the author should be incredibly proud of this story. The writing itself was wonderful — it pulls you into the story and makes you feel alongside the characters. ❤️
Congrats to @authorhaydenfox on your debut novel! I know so many more people will fall in love with Kendall and Kai! 🥰❤️
I loved Kendall and Kai so much. They are good people who struggled, hurt and lost one another, and still remained deeply committed to each other through fear, pain, and growth (once back in each others lives). They aren’t perfect and they both go through the range of emotions - Their relationship felt very human and very real.
The mental health representation (both PPD and general grief) especially hit home for me. As a mom who has struggled with PPD/PPA myself, some of Kendall’s thoughts and experiences landed hard. I appreciated so deeply the honest portrayal of postpartum depression, healing, and the grace she learned to extend toward her past hurting self. It felt compassionate, nuanced, and incredibly important.
I also loved seeing therapy and counselling represented in such a healthy way. Therapy can be so beneficial for people to build healthier communication, understanding, and emotional skills. Marriage and long-term relationships inevitably involve moments where we hurt or disappoint one another — we’re all human. I appreciated that the book allowed space for growth - both as individuals and as a couple - instead of perfection.
I loved the parents we got to see in Kendall and Kai to Akio. Watching Kai step into fatherhood and seeing how deeply they both loved and cared for their son was genuinely beautiful.
This was a solidly good read. I really enjoyed it, and the author should be incredibly proud of this story. The writing itself was wonderful — it pulls you into the story and makes you feel alongside the characters. ❤️
Congrats to @authorhaydenfox on your debut novel! I know so many more people will fall in love with Kendall and Kai! 🥰❤️
May 21, 2026
Thanks to the author for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is an indie author's debut novel and I think that makes it all the more impressive as I never would've guessed. I think it could've used a bit more editing as the pace lagged a bit during the middle and there was some redundancy but, overall, this was really good. I think the author is very talented and she wrote a really beautiful, emotional story. This is a first love/second chance romance between Kendall and Kai. Kai is a professional hockey player and Kendall is a single mom who dreams of going to law school. They were childhood sweethearts until she suddenly ghosts him until showing up at his hockey game three years later with a BIG secret. A huge part of the plot is both of them learning to forgive each other and themselves and learn how to co-parent while building a stronger relationship. This book is very emotional and will work for readers who want a very slow burn, emotionally devastating romance. I applaud the author's use of mental health representation (without stigma), her positive LGBTQ+ representation, and her portrayal of a mixed race couple.
Kendall and Kai get their HEA but they definitely don't take the shortest or most straight-forward route to get there (and the reader gets to come along for the ride).
I have a feeling we may be getting more books in this series. I would love to read about Emma and Jax!
This is an indie author's debut novel and I think that makes it all the more impressive as I never would've guessed. I think it could've used a bit more editing as the pace lagged a bit during the middle and there was some redundancy but, overall, this was really good. I think the author is very talented and she wrote a really beautiful, emotional story. This is a first love/second chance romance between Kendall and Kai. Kai is a professional hockey player and Kendall is a single mom who dreams of going to law school. They were childhood sweethearts until she suddenly ghosts him until showing up at his hockey game three years later with a BIG secret. A huge part of the plot is both of them learning to forgive each other and themselves and learn how to co-parent while building a stronger relationship. This book is very emotional and will work for readers who want a very slow burn, emotionally devastating romance. I applaud the author's use of mental health representation (without stigma), her positive LGBTQ+ representation, and her portrayal of a mixed race couple.
Kendall and Kai get their HEA but they definitely don't take the shortest or most straight-forward route to get there (and the reader gets to come along for the ride).
I have a feeling we may be getting more books in this series. I would love to read about Emma and Jax!
July 6, 2026
This book was just absolutely gorgeous!
I must admit that I don’t normally get on with second chance romance books, as I often find the reasons for the breakup in the first place to be absolutely ridiculous. But this one hit me in all the feels for 500 bloody pages!
The relationship between Kendall and Kai is superbly written. You can’t help but route for them! Plus it was hot as hell ;-)
Definitely recommend this one if you want to giggle, and ugly cry for pages and pages!
Thanks so much to Hayden for letting me read this advanced copy ❤️ Due out on 16th June! Go preorder it!!
I must admit that I don’t normally get on with second chance romance books, as I often find the reasons for the breakup in the first place to be absolutely ridiculous. But this one hit me in all the feels for 500 bloody pages!
The relationship between Kendall and Kai is superbly written. You can’t help but route for them! Plus it was hot as hell ;-)
Definitely recommend this one if you want to giggle, and ugly cry for pages and pages!
Thanks so much to Hayden for letting me read this advanced copy ❤️ Due out on 16th June! Go preorder it!!
May 28, 2026
“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚.“
The Way Back to You by Hayden Fox
3.5☆
Ya’ll know me and how much miscommunication tropes get me fired up. I was literally yelling “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” every five freaking chapters.
BUT…although this second chance romance was messy, emotional, and frustrating…it was also healing and painfully human in a way that felt VERY real. Kai and Kendall aren’t perfect people. They’re carrying years of heartbreak, guilt, unresolved trauma, and the kind of first love that never really leaves your bloodstream no matter how hard you try to move on.
And listen… I’m gonna be honest. Kendall and I were NOT friends in the beginning. The lack of communication had me wanting to shake her a little, and there were moments where the guilt she carried started bleeding into guilt-tripping Kai about still having his future ahead of him while she felt stuck in hers. It frustrated me because you could see how much damage silence and assumptions caused for both of them.
“𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙆𝙖𝙞. 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙…”
BUT. That’s also what made this story hit so HARD.
Because underneath all the mistakes, there’s this incredibly beautiful reminder that everyone is carrying hurt. Everyone is battling something quietly. Healing isn’t linear and people don’t always handle pain well. The grace and forgiveness in this story felt so powerful because it wasn’t about excusing bad choices, it was about learning to face them honestly.
“𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚. 𝙒𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.”
And that’s where this book really shines: truth in love. Holding people accountable to the standard they’re capable of while still loving them enough to believe they can grow. Therapy, counseling, friendship, forgiveness, personal growth… it all felt thoughtful and grounded instead of magically fixed overnight.
The dual timeline made everything hurt SO much better too. Watching glimpses of their first love while seeing the wreckage and tenderness of the present day added such a bittersweet ache to their story.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣. 𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥, 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙒𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣…”
And I’m just gonna say that Kai—sweet, patient, hurting Kai. That man deserved to be held gently and fed cinnamon rolls for the rest of his life.
“𝙄 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬, 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧. 𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨.”
Overall this book had me frustrated, emotional, hopeful, and weirdly comforted all at once. A messy but beautiful reminder that sometimes love isn’t about finding perfect people. It’s about finding the beauty in the broken pieces and putting them back in the perfect places…together.
*Thank you to Hayden Fox for this arc opportunity.
The Way Back to You by Hayden Fox
3.5☆
Ya’ll know me and how much miscommunication tropes get me fired up. I was literally yelling “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” every five freaking chapters.
BUT…although this second chance romance was messy, emotional, and frustrating…it was also healing and painfully human in a way that felt VERY real. Kai and Kendall aren’t perfect people. They’re carrying years of heartbreak, guilt, unresolved trauma, and the kind of first love that never really leaves your bloodstream no matter how hard you try to move on.
And listen… I’m gonna be honest. Kendall and I were NOT friends in the beginning. The lack of communication had me wanting to shake her a little, and there were moments where the guilt she carried started bleeding into guilt-tripping Kai about still having his future ahead of him while she felt stuck in hers. It frustrated me because you could see how much damage silence and assumptions caused for both of them.
“𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙆𝙖𝙞. 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙…”
BUT. That’s also what made this story hit so HARD.
Because underneath all the mistakes, there’s this incredibly beautiful reminder that everyone is carrying hurt. Everyone is battling something quietly. Healing isn’t linear and people don’t always handle pain well. The grace and forgiveness in this story felt so powerful because it wasn’t about excusing bad choices, it was about learning to face them honestly.
“𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚. 𝙒𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.”
And that’s where this book really shines: truth in love. Holding people accountable to the standard they’re capable of while still loving them enough to believe they can grow. Therapy, counseling, friendship, forgiveness, personal growth… it all felt thoughtful and grounded instead of magically fixed overnight.
The dual timeline made everything hurt SO much better too. Watching glimpses of their first love while seeing the wreckage and tenderness of the present day added such a bittersweet ache to their story.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣. 𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥, 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙒𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣…”
And I’m just gonna say that Kai—sweet, patient, hurting Kai. That man deserved to be held gently and fed cinnamon rolls for the rest of his life.
“𝙄 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬, 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧. 𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨.”
Overall this book had me frustrated, emotional, hopeful, and weirdly comforted all at once. A messy but beautiful reminder that sometimes love isn’t about finding perfect people. It’s about finding the beauty in the broken pieces and putting them back in the perfect places…together.
*Thank you to Hayden Fox for this arc opportunity.
May 14, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy provided by the Author.
The Way Back to You is a second chance hockey contemporary romance. It follows Kendall and Kai’s relationship and incorporates flashback scenes from when they were younger. Kendall and Kai were childhood best friends turned high school sweethearts. Kai eventually gets drafted to the NHL and Kendall finds out she’s pregnant. Kendall ends up leaving Kai to secretly raise Akio, their son, so that she doesn’t ruin Kai’s career and future. There are so many twists and turns throughout their story that what they need to overcome seems unbearable at times.
This is Hayden Fox’s debut novel and she tackles so many sensitive and/or darker topics tastefully! The characters experience a lot of emotional turmoil as they navigate trying to make their relationship work again when trust had been broken. I also loved that the ending didn’t feel rushed. In some contemporary romance books I find that right after the main characters solve their big problem it cuts to their happily ever after. Hayden did a phenomenal job of giving closure and a well deserved happily ever after for Kai and Kendall!
Thank you to Hayden Fox for picking me to be a street team member and a part of the ARC team. The ARC was gifted in exchange for an honest review. I really savored this book and took my time with it so that I could stay with Kai and Kendall just a tiny bit longer! Keep this book on your radar! The Way Back To You releases June 16, 2026!
The Way Back to You is a second chance hockey contemporary romance. It follows Kendall and Kai’s relationship and incorporates flashback scenes from when they were younger. Kendall and Kai were childhood best friends turned high school sweethearts. Kai eventually gets drafted to the NHL and Kendall finds out she’s pregnant. Kendall ends up leaving Kai to secretly raise Akio, their son, so that she doesn’t ruin Kai’s career and future. There are so many twists and turns throughout their story that what they need to overcome seems unbearable at times.
This is Hayden Fox’s debut novel and she tackles so many sensitive and/or darker topics tastefully! The characters experience a lot of emotional turmoil as they navigate trying to make their relationship work again when trust had been broken. I also loved that the ending didn’t feel rushed. In some contemporary romance books I find that right after the main characters solve their big problem it cuts to their happily ever after. Hayden did a phenomenal job of giving closure and a well deserved happily ever after for Kai and Kendall!
Thank you to Hayden Fox for picking me to be a street team member and a part of the ARC team. The ARC was gifted in exchange for an honest review. I really savored this book and took my time with it so that I could stay with Kai and Kendall just a tiny bit longer! Keep this book on your radar! The Way Back To You releases June 16, 2026!
May 29, 2026
4.5 stars
For this to be Hayden Fox’s debut she has a long career ahead of her in the writing industry!
In this we have Kai and Kendall who have know each other since they were younger and they part ways. Once they reconnect that’s when our story takes off.
What I love the most about this book was how Hayden Fox handled certain topics with love and care. This author has a true voice in the romance space and it was a beautiful read.
I also loved how Kai is a book boyfriend, point blank period! Kendall, she went through it but I’m so happy that she got the ending she truly deserved.
Thank you to Hayden Fox for this ARC!
For this to be Hayden Fox’s debut she has a long career ahead of her in the writing industry!
In this we have Kai and Kendall who have know each other since they were younger and they part ways. Once they reconnect that’s when our story takes off.
What I love the most about this book was how Hayden Fox handled certain topics with love and care. This author has a true voice in the romance space and it was a beautiful read.
I also loved how Kai is a book boyfriend, point blank period! Kendall, she went through it but I’m so happy that she got the ending she truly deserved.
Thank you to Hayden Fox for this ARC!
June 23, 2026
Before I start, I want to mention that I read this as an ARC and intentionally waited until after the book was published to post my review out of respect for the author and the ARC process.
There will likely be spoilers ahead, so proceed with caution.
First, let's start with the positives. The writing itself was fantastic. The storytelling was easy to follow, and I genuinely enjoy this author's writing style. They have a way of pulling you into the story and keeping you engaged, which is ultimately why I finished the book despite my frustrations.
Unfortunately, I struggled a lot with Kendall's character.
I understand that she had confidence issues and emotional baggage, but her decision to keep the child from Kai became more frustrating than understandable. I kept waiting for the story to make that choice feel clearer, but it never did.
What frustrated me even more was that her family seemed fully capable of recognizing it was a bad decision, yet no one was willing to have that difficult conversation with her. Instead, everyone went along with it because that was what Kendall wanted. Even though there was still no rhyme or reason. Like she willingly chose to be a single mother and struggle despite Kai being clear on being willing to be with her. Especially as a woman of color. Like, not even considering the realm of possibility. Then, when she decides to magically “pop up” in his life, she just shows up at a game, then still tries to run from him.
Then there's Kai.
Kai spent the entire book giving green flags, and yet it felt like every possible bad thing could happen to him. I understand that characters need conflict and that not every story is sunshine and rainbows, but the amount of suffering piled onto him started to feel excessive.
His friendship with Aiden, lord help me. The issues with him cost him his hockey career, despite his only trying to help. I did not understand why the suffering kept piling on. Also, don’t get me started on the “apology” from Aiden after Kai had lost his entire career due to him! Like that was a slap in the face to me.
By the end of the book, the message was “I’m not rich anymore, not like I used to be. But it doesn’t matter. We’re rich in love. Smiles. Happiness. Peace. And a million small moments we wish we could freeze forever.” While I understand what the story was trying to say, it didn't fully work for me. It felt like Kai lost nearly everything, only for the ending to suggest that the loss was meant to be softened by love and family.
For me, that wasn't entirely satisfying.
My biggest issue is that I never understood why all of these hardships had to happen to reach the same ending. It seemed like the story inflicted suffering simply for its own sake rather than because it was necessary for the characters' growth or the plot.
The spice was well-written, the writing itself was strong, and there were obvious moments I enjoyed. However, I spent most of the book frustrated, frustrated with Kendall because I couldn't understand her choices, and frustrated for Kai because every positive step forward seemed to bring another setback.
Overall, this was a solid read from a talented author, but the character decisions and overwhelming amount of conflict kept me from fully enjoying it, and the ending's takeaway didn't fully land for me.
There will likely be spoilers ahead, so proceed with caution.
First, let's start with the positives. The writing itself was fantastic. The storytelling was easy to follow, and I genuinely enjoy this author's writing style. They have a way of pulling you into the story and keeping you engaged, which is ultimately why I finished the book despite my frustrations.
Unfortunately, I struggled a lot with Kendall's character.
I understand that she had confidence issues and emotional baggage, but her decision to keep the child from Kai became more frustrating than understandable. I kept waiting for the story to make that choice feel clearer, but it never did.
What frustrated me even more was that her family seemed fully capable of recognizing it was a bad decision, yet no one was willing to have that difficult conversation with her. Instead, everyone went along with it because that was what Kendall wanted. Even though there was still no rhyme or reason. Like she willingly chose to be a single mother and struggle despite Kai being clear on being willing to be with her. Especially as a woman of color. Like, not even considering the realm of possibility. Then, when she decides to magically “pop up” in his life, she just shows up at a game, then still tries to run from him.
Then there's Kai.
Kai spent the entire book giving green flags, and yet it felt like every possible bad thing could happen to him. I understand that characters need conflict and that not every story is sunshine and rainbows, but the amount of suffering piled onto him started to feel excessive.
His friendship with Aiden, lord help me. The issues with him cost him his hockey career, despite his only trying to help. I did not understand why the suffering kept piling on. Also, don’t get me started on the “apology” from Aiden after Kai had lost his entire career due to him! Like that was a slap in the face to me.
By the end of the book, the message was “I’m not rich anymore, not like I used to be. But it doesn’t matter. We’re rich in love. Smiles. Happiness. Peace. And a million small moments we wish we could freeze forever.” While I understand what the story was trying to say, it didn't fully work for me. It felt like Kai lost nearly everything, only for the ending to suggest that the loss was meant to be softened by love and family.
For me, that wasn't entirely satisfying.
My biggest issue is that I never understood why all of these hardships had to happen to reach the same ending. It seemed like the story inflicted suffering simply for its own sake rather than because it was necessary for the characters' growth or the plot.
The spice was well-written, the writing itself was strong, and there were obvious moments I enjoyed. However, I spent most of the book frustrated, frustrated with Kendall because I couldn't understand her choices, and frustrated for Kai because every positive step forward seemed to bring another setback.
Overall, this was a solid read from a talented author, but the character decisions and overwhelming amount of conflict kept me from fully enjoying it, and the ending's takeaway didn't fully land for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phew that was a long one.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book and minor spoilers ahead.
This book was a little too long for me. It's about 400 pages and 98 chapters. I don't have an issue with longer books as long as what's happening moves the plot forward. Unfortunately, I thought at least 50 pages seemed like filler that could have been cut out to move onto more important events that happened later in the book.
Already the end of chapter 5 (~page 24), Kai and Kendall have reconnected and Kai knows Akio is his son. Because the author revealed, in my opinion, the main secret so early on, a lot of the book felt like filler of Kai and Kendall's relationship. The author goes back in forth between the past and the present when describing their relationship, which got a bit confusing at times. Thankfully, she does put the dates, so we know ~2020 is the "present". I would just get frustrated of so much back and forth and sometimes the past would be out of order. For example, chapter a would be the present, chapter b 2016, chapter c present, chapter d 2011, chapter e present, chapter f 2017. Some of the major things that should have been highlighted earlier weren't. I wished the author had cut some of Kai and Kendall's relationship and brought up more important things earlier like Kai's dad attempting to bribe her. I also felt like Kai's kidnapping seemed random and at that point in the story, I was just tired of reading.
The author covers a lot of heavy topics (postpartum depression, alcoholism, gambling/addiction, LBGTQ+, anxiety/panic attacks, abusive relationships, interracial relationships, kidnapping, etc.). I don't mind heavy topics, but this was just an overwhelming amount. There's the expression of going a mile wide, but an inch deep, which is what she did. I wished she had just picked a few to really focus on instead. The topic of an interracial couple, where both main characters are BIPOC was what attracted me to the story, especially being mixed myself. I knew Kai was Asian, but his specific ethnicity (Hawaiian and Japanese) isn't revealed until ~page 297. I would have liked for that to have been highlighted earlier. But the author did do a good job with the examples of prejudice interracial couples face (i.e. the lady in the grocery store where Akio was adopted from and the bartender questioning why Kendall wasn't with a Black guy).
Overall, great topics and themes, but the execution fell a bit flat. I think the book could have worked better as a duet. The first book would have been Kai finding out about Akoi and Kai and Kendall navigating that secret. It could have ended on the cliff hanger of Kai getting kidnapped. Book 2 would have been Kai's kidnapping, his PTSD from it, and what their future looked like (so basically expand the last 100 pages into a book)
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book and minor spoilers ahead.
This book was a little too long for me. It's about 400 pages and 98 chapters. I don't have an issue with longer books as long as what's happening moves the plot forward. Unfortunately, I thought at least 50 pages seemed like filler that could have been cut out to move onto more important events that happened later in the book.
Already the end of chapter 5 (~page 24), Kai and Kendall have reconnected and Kai knows Akio is his son. Because the author revealed, in my opinion, the main secret so early on, a lot of the book felt like filler of Kai and Kendall's relationship. The author goes back in forth between the past and the present when describing their relationship, which got a bit confusing at times. Thankfully, she does put the dates, so we know ~2020 is the "present". I would just get frustrated of so much back and forth and sometimes the past would be out of order. For example, chapter a would be the present, chapter b 2016, chapter c present, chapter d 2011, chapter e present, chapter f 2017. Some of the major things that should have been highlighted earlier weren't. I wished the author had cut some of Kai and Kendall's relationship and brought up more important things earlier like Kai's dad attempting to bribe her. I also felt like Kai's kidnapping seemed random and at that point in the story, I was just tired of reading.
The author covers a lot of heavy topics (postpartum depression, alcoholism, gambling/addiction, LBGTQ+, anxiety/panic attacks, abusive relationships, interracial relationships, kidnapping, etc.). I don't mind heavy topics, but this was just an overwhelming amount. There's the expression of going a mile wide, but an inch deep, which is what she did. I wished she had just picked a few to really focus on instead. The topic of an interracial couple, where both main characters are BIPOC was what attracted me to the story, especially being mixed myself. I knew Kai was Asian, but his specific ethnicity (Hawaiian and Japanese) isn't revealed until ~page 297. I would have liked for that to have been highlighted earlier. But the author did do a good job with the examples of prejudice interracial couples face (i.e. the lady in the grocery store where Akio was adopted from and the bartender questioning why Kendall wasn't with a Black guy).
Overall, great topics and themes, but the execution fell a bit flat. I think the book could have worked better as a duet. The first book would have been Kai finding out about Akoi and Kai and Kendall navigating that secret. It could have ended on the cliff hanger of Kai getting kidnapped. Book 2 would have been Kai's kidnapping, his PTSD from it, and what their future looked like (so basically expand the last 100 pages into a book)
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Way Back To You was the most beautiful and emotional roller coaster I've ever ridden. I couldn't read fast enough, yet I didn't want it to end 🥹 One of my favourite reads in a long time, this book deserves more then 5 stars!
Every single page of this incredible story was laced with emotion! Kendall and Kai are truly soul mates who are childhood best friends, high school sweethearts and college lovers. Both each others biggest cheerleaders while Kai prepares to be drafted into the NHL and Kendall is ready to pursue her dreams and become a lawyer... until life rips them apart in the most gut wrenching way 💔 This story is of them finding their way back to each other ... through the trauma, pain and unfairness that life has thrown their way.
Kendall and Kai are perfect for each other in every single way. They are indeed 2 hearts melted into one. They complete each other, heal each other, and love each other in the way we all crave to be loved.
There are heavy themes in this book that were handled with such tenderness and care. The interracial relationship, secret child, mental health and trauma representation were all so beautifully touched upon - again bringing the emotion to the reader in a way that you can feel the characters and also relate to their struggles, hardships, joy and ultimately celebrations and wins.
The story is written with a dual time line which I absolutely loved! Going back and forth, weaving the pieces together so flawlessly and keeping me glued to the pages. I'm not one for spoilers, but there was also a jaw dropping twist that I never saw coming that sent me spiraling and kept me up past my bedtime to see how that situation unfolded. 😅
I also loved the supporting characters throughout the story and how they are all rooting for these two and see the love between them - even when they can't themselves 🥹
This is hands down one of the most incredible books I've ever read and 2 nights after finishing the book as I write this review, I cannot stop thinking about them and their son; where there are now. The story ended so beautifully and I was bawling my eyes out trying to see the kindle as I read the last few pages.
My mind is still blown that this is Hayden Fox's debut novel ... what an incredible talent she is! I hope to see more books from her in the future and will be the first in line at the bookshop come the day they release.
I'm so grateful to Hayden for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Every single page of this incredible story was laced with emotion! Kendall and Kai are truly soul mates who are childhood best friends, high school sweethearts and college lovers. Both each others biggest cheerleaders while Kai prepares to be drafted into the NHL and Kendall is ready to pursue her dreams and become a lawyer... until life rips them apart in the most gut wrenching way 💔 This story is of them finding their way back to each other ... through the trauma, pain and unfairness that life has thrown their way.
Kendall and Kai are perfect for each other in every single way. They are indeed 2 hearts melted into one. They complete each other, heal each other, and love each other in the way we all crave to be loved.
There are heavy themes in this book that were handled with such tenderness and care. The interracial relationship, secret child, mental health and trauma representation were all so beautifully touched upon - again bringing the emotion to the reader in a way that you can feel the characters and also relate to their struggles, hardships, joy and ultimately celebrations and wins.
The story is written with a dual time line which I absolutely loved! Going back and forth, weaving the pieces together so flawlessly and keeping me glued to the pages. I'm not one for spoilers, but there was also a jaw dropping twist that I never saw coming that sent me spiraling and kept me up past my bedtime to see how that situation unfolded. 😅
I also loved the supporting characters throughout the story and how they are all rooting for these two and see the love between them - even when they can't themselves 🥹
This is hands down one of the most incredible books I've ever read and 2 nights after finishing the book as I write this review, I cannot stop thinking about them and their son; where there are now. The story ended so beautifully and I was bawling my eyes out trying to see the kindle as I read the last few pages.
My mind is still blown that this is Hayden Fox's debut novel ... what an incredible talent she is! I hope to see more books from her in the future and will be the first in line at the bookshop come the day they release.
I'm so grateful to Hayden for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book is one of healing; where two people, who mean everything to each other, made mistakes and hurt each other, but still found their way back to each other. Despite all the hurt and healing involved in this book, it was actually such a therapeutic read. It showed the beauty of two people trying their best to work through their problems because they love each other.
We follow Kendall and Kai, two childhood best friends turned lover, turned strangers, then back to lovers. Kendall left Kai unexpectedly three years ago and suddenly returns with a child. Kai, is a star hockey player who has risen in fame in the past three years, but he never got over Kendall.
I absolutely loved Kai’s character. He’s literally the sweetest person alive, like where can I find a man like him? Whoever says chivalry is dead has never met Kai because he’s the ideal partner in every single aspect. He will drown you in love, remember every little thing you mentioned, and knows exactly what you need in that moment to relax.
This book is about the heartbreak and hurt two people put each other through and learning to come back from it, learning to accept and love each other again. The characters were so beautifully written; they both own up to their past mistakes, is wiling to put in the work to patch up their relationship, and are so open and honest with each other. THIS is what healing should be.
I also really enjoyed how the chapters jump between the present and the past. It’s so hard for authors to get it right because it can become so confusing, but the way Hayden does it, it flows so well from chapter to chapter. This goes us opportunities to see how what happened in the past directly affects whatever is currently happening in the book.
Finally, let’s talk about the romance in this book; this is a contemporary romance after all! You can literally feel the passion between these two just spilling off the pages. The yearning is soooo intense and omg the slow burn. It works so well because Kai and Kendall are trying to work out the emotional aspects of their relationship before diving into the physical aspect (well… sort of, they tried 😂). And when they finally decide it’s finally time to rekindle their spark, the sparks literally light up the sky like fireworks. The payoff is SO good because of all the yearning between these two.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a contemporary romance that focuses on healing heartbreak and two people who love each other to no end, I’d definitely give this one a go!
This book is one of healing; where two people, who mean everything to each other, made mistakes and hurt each other, but still found their way back to each other. Despite all the hurt and healing involved in this book, it was actually such a therapeutic read. It showed the beauty of two people trying their best to work through their problems because they love each other.
We follow Kendall and Kai, two childhood best friends turned lover, turned strangers, then back to lovers. Kendall left Kai unexpectedly three years ago and suddenly returns with a child. Kai, is a star hockey player who has risen in fame in the past three years, but he never got over Kendall.
I absolutely loved Kai’s character. He’s literally the sweetest person alive, like where can I find a man like him? Whoever says chivalry is dead has never met Kai because he’s the ideal partner in every single aspect. He will drown you in love, remember every little thing you mentioned, and knows exactly what you need in that moment to relax.
This book is about the heartbreak and hurt two people put each other through and learning to come back from it, learning to accept and love each other again. The characters were so beautifully written; they both own up to their past mistakes, is wiling to put in the work to patch up their relationship, and are so open and honest with each other. THIS is what healing should be.
I also really enjoyed how the chapters jump between the present and the past. It’s so hard for authors to get it right because it can become so confusing, but the way Hayden does it, it flows so well from chapter to chapter. This goes us opportunities to see how what happened in the past directly affects whatever is currently happening in the book.
Finally, let’s talk about the romance in this book; this is a contemporary romance after all! You can literally feel the passion between these two just spilling off the pages. The yearning is soooo intense and omg the slow burn. It works so well because Kai and Kendall are trying to work out the emotional aspects of their relationship before diving into the physical aspect (well… sort of, they tried 😂). And when they finally decide it’s finally time to rekindle their spark, the sparks literally light up the sky like fireworks. The payoff is SO good because of all the yearning between these two.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a contemporary romance that focuses on healing heartbreak and two people who love each other to no end, I’d definitely give this one a go!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Get ready, because this second-chance, secret baby, hockey (+ tiny bit mafia?) romance will take you on a RIDE.
The first 60% of the book sees childhood best friends to lovers Kai (NHL star player) and Kendall (mom, aspiring lawyer) reuniting and working through the series of events that led them to fall apart after college. Through flashbacks, we see them fall in love, and in the present timeline, their irresistible chemistry brings them back together, along with their toddler son, who Kai has just discovered exists. We see their love rekindle in some explosive ways while they struggle to work out the details and reconcile their decisions and growth in their years apart.
You better buckle up for the last 40% of the book - the plot is plotting, as events both within and outside of their control occur and outside forces make the characters to confront their growth and make some changes to their visions of the future and how they want to move forward, together. The 3rd-act-semi-breakup section is tough to read (emotionally!), but I loved the addition of a 3rd POV in their other childhood friend, Jenna, who pops in to move things along (I loved seeing her come back after she plays a big role in the prologue!). There's a bit of timeline slippage in parts, but the supporting characters are really fun (and you want to follow along with their stories too - I want Emma and Jax's story and HEA!)
A really exciting debut with complex characters (the second half adds a lot of complexity the the mmc's character arc) that you'll have fun debating with a buddy read (which for me, is the mark of a good book - you have to discuss it with someone!). It's messy in the best way (the way that life can be!), and it'll make a great book club pick.
TW: Hayden handles microaggressions and other topics thoughtfully (PPD, adoption), but check your trigger warnings and take care. In regards to issues of race - especially in interracial relationships, Kendall (the fmc) gets to say out loud what a lot of people WISH they could say, and I appreciated her taking the time - this fmc is Not. The. One. to play with.
*opinions are my own, and I am grateful to the author and Fox Cabin Publishing for an eARC of this book.
The first 60% of the book sees childhood best friends to lovers Kai (NHL star player) and Kendall (mom, aspiring lawyer) reuniting and working through the series of events that led them to fall apart after college. Through flashbacks, we see them fall in love, and in the present timeline, their irresistible chemistry brings them back together, along with their toddler son, who Kai has just discovered exists. We see their love rekindle in some explosive ways while they struggle to work out the details and reconcile their decisions and growth in their years apart.
You better buckle up for the last 40% of the book - the plot is plotting, as events both within and outside of their control occur and outside forces make the characters to confront their growth and make some changes to their visions of the future and how they want to move forward, together. The 3rd-act-semi-breakup section is tough to read (emotionally!), but I loved the addition of a 3rd POV in their other childhood friend, Jenna, who pops in to move things along (I loved seeing her come back after she plays a big role in the prologue!). There's a bit of timeline slippage in parts, but the supporting characters are really fun (and you want to follow along with their stories too - I want Emma and Jax's story and HEA!)
A really exciting debut with complex characters (the second half adds a lot of complexity the the mmc's character arc) that you'll have fun debating with a buddy read (which for me, is the mark of a good book - you have to discuss it with someone!). It's messy in the best way (the way that life can be!), and it'll make a great book club pick.
TW: Hayden handles microaggressions and other topics thoughtfully (PPD, adoption), but check your trigger warnings and take care. In regards to issues of race - especially in interracial relationships, Kendall (the fmc) gets to say out loud what a lot of people WISH they could say, and I appreciated her taking the time - this fmc is Not. The. One. to play with.
*opinions are my own, and I am grateful to the author and Fox Cabin Publishing for an eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Way Back to You by Hayden Fox - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s been SUCH an honor to be part of @haydenfox’s street team and to get to read this absolute masterpiece of a book! I’ll never be able to say enough wonderful things about TWBTY but, well… this will be my attempt to do just that.
The Way Back to You follows Kai (a star NHL player) and Kendall (a single mom & aspiring lawyer), former childhood sweethearts whose reconnection as adults— and the revelation that Kendall’s son Akio is also Kai’s— leads to a slow rekindling of their romance, forcing the two to confront their individual unresolved pain, fears, and history.
Through dual timelines, we watch as Kai and Kendall fall in love in flashbacks and see their irresistible chemistry draw them together again in the present, working to reconcile each other’s decisions in their years apart.
Not only is this a deliciously soft, slow, beautiful second chance romance, it’s also a story that touches on deeper topics such as racism, microaggressions, adoption, postpartum depression, and more in such a tender, thoughtful way— kudos to Hayden for handling these topics alongside the softer moments with such grace!
I will say, things took a SHARP turn at about 75% of the way through the story, but I’m not complaining! The plot is plotting, as they say, and while certain parts were a tough read (that 3rd act semi-breakup, OOF), it was lovely to see a third POV brought in in the form of Jenna (their other childhood friend) to move things along for these two crazy kids.
All in all this is a dazzling debut, with complex characters (the second half adds a lot of complexity to the Kai’s character arc) that you'll enjoy debating with a buddy read (the street team certainly had lots of fun yelling about it 🤭). It's messy and sweet and real and human, and it'll make a great book club pick! Definitely a read I’ll be coming back to again and again and again! I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to get to join the street team and be part of promoting this fantastic story! As far as what the future holds for Hayden Fox… perhaps a sequel with Emma and Jax is in the cards…? 👀
All the hugs to my fellow Foxes, and of course @HaydenFox for this absolute masterpiece 🥹💜🦊
It’s been SUCH an honor to be part of @haydenfox’s street team and to get to read this absolute masterpiece of a book! I’ll never be able to say enough wonderful things about TWBTY but, well… this will be my attempt to do just that.
The Way Back to You follows Kai (a star NHL player) and Kendall (a single mom & aspiring lawyer), former childhood sweethearts whose reconnection as adults— and the revelation that Kendall’s son Akio is also Kai’s— leads to a slow rekindling of their romance, forcing the two to confront their individual unresolved pain, fears, and history.
Through dual timelines, we watch as Kai and Kendall fall in love in flashbacks and see their irresistible chemistry draw them together again in the present, working to reconcile each other’s decisions in their years apart.
Not only is this a deliciously soft, slow, beautiful second chance romance, it’s also a story that touches on deeper topics such as racism, microaggressions, adoption, postpartum depression, and more in such a tender, thoughtful way— kudos to Hayden for handling these topics alongside the softer moments with such grace!
I will say, things took a SHARP turn at about 75% of the way through the story, but I’m not complaining! The plot is plotting, as they say, and while certain parts were a tough read (that 3rd act semi-breakup, OOF), it was lovely to see a third POV brought in in the form of Jenna (their other childhood friend) to move things along for these two crazy kids.
All in all this is a dazzling debut, with complex characters (the second half adds a lot of complexity to the Kai’s character arc) that you'll enjoy debating with a buddy read (the street team certainly had lots of fun yelling about it 🤭). It's messy and sweet and real and human, and it'll make a great book club pick! Definitely a read I’ll be coming back to again and again and again! I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to get to join the street team and be part of promoting this fantastic story! As far as what the future holds for Hayden Fox… perhaps a sequel with Emma and Jax is in the cards…? 👀
All the hugs to my fellow Foxes, and of course @HaydenFox for this absolute masterpiece 🥹💜🦊
Review of advance copy received from Author
BEST READ OF 2026 💜
I was unbelievably grateful to be offered the chance to receive an ARC copy of this Authors debut novel “The Way Back To You” my first ARC, might I add 😇
This story is an emotional and heartfelt romance following Kendall and Kai as they navigate love, healing, and the complicated pull of the past. When old feelings and unresolved wounds resurface, they must decide whether they can overcome what once tore them apart and find their way back to each other. Filled with heartfelt moments, compelling relationships, and plenty of emotion, this is an Ice Hockey romantic novel about second chances and discovering where you truly belong.
Having read a preview of the initial 4 chapters back in February, I was immediately addicted to these relatable characters and couldn’t wait to follow the rest of their journey.
This was one of those books that completely took me on an emotional journey. One moment I was smiling at the beautiful interactions between main characters Kendall and Kai which at times reminded me of the relationship between Bella Swan & Edward Cullen from the Twilight Saga, and the next I found myself reaching for the tissues. Hayden did a wonderful job of balancing heartfelt emotion with romance, creating characters that feel genuine and easy to connect with.
I also found the level of spice👀 to be absolutely perfect. It added to the story and the connection between the characters without ever overshadowing the emotional depth of their journey.
What stood out most to me, however, was the way the book handled some really sensitive topics.. These subjects were approached with thoughtfulness, care, and respect, adding important representation to the story while never feeling exploitative or preachy. Hayden tackled these themes with remarkable sensitivity, making them an integral part of the characters’ experiences and growth.
Any way - don’t mind me going on & on, I really could talk about this book for HOURS! Go and find out for yourself.. 📚
Thank you to the Author for this absolutely incredible opportunity!
I was unbelievably grateful to be offered the chance to receive an ARC copy of this Authors debut novel “The Way Back To You” my first ARC, might I add 😇
This story is an emotional and heartfelt romance following Kendall and Kai as they navigate love, healing, and the complicated pull of the past. When old feelings and unresolved wounds resurface, they must decide whether they can overcome what once tore them apart and find their way back to each other. Filled with heartfelt moments, compelling relationships, and plenty of emotion, this is an Ice Hockey romantic novel about second chances and discovering where you truly belong.
Having read a preview of the initial 4 chapters back in February, I was immediately addicted to these relatable characters and couldn’t wait to follow the rest of their journey.
This was one of those books that completely took me on an emotional journey. One moment I was smiling at the beautiful interactions between main characters Kendall and Kai which at times reminded me of the relationship between Bella Swan & Edward Cullen from the Twilight Saga, and the next I found myself reaching for the tissues. Hayden did a wonderful job of balancing heartfelt emotion with romance, creating characters that feel genuine and easy to connect with.
I also found the level of spice👀 to be absolutely perfect. It added to the story and the connection between the characters without ever overshadowing the emotional depth of their journey.
What stood out most to me, however, was the way the book handled some really sensitive topics.. These subjects were approached with thoughtfulness, care, and respect, adding important representation to the story while never feeling exploitative or preachy. Hayden tackled these themes with remarkable sensitivity, making them an integral part of the characters’ experiences and growth.
Any way - don’t mind me going on & on, I really could talk about this book for HOURS! Go and find out for yourself.. 📚
Thank you to the Author for this absolutely incredible opportunity!
June 10, 2026
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest, voluntary review
Kendall and Kai, childhood best friends, turned bf/gf, turned strangers, who find their way back to each other as adults... but Kendall kept a very big secret. Professional hockey player Kai spent the years they were apart chasing his dreams and finding comfort in meaningless encounters all the while trying to get over the one that got away. Kendall spent that time growing and raising the perfect combination of their love, staying away in a misguided attempt to do what she thought was right. When they find their way back to each other emotions are high and feelings are bruised, but that spark, that genuine connection between them never truly died.
Watching this pair struggle through the intense repercussions of Kendall's choice to run was both heart rending and gently beautiful. Life is messy. People make the wrong choices and end up in a place they never wanted to be, separated from the people they thought they could never and would never have to live without. The writing of this struggle felt so real and raw. I wanted to shake Kendall but also hug her. These characters are flawed but also so pure that I really only wanted them to figure out their trauma and find a way back to each other.
The representation of mental health within both characters lives was honest and thoughtful. The author didn't dwell on those aspects, but made them feel true to struggles everyone goes through in their lives. The scene where Kendall spoke about her postpartum depression was really beautiful, even though it was hard to see her suffering unfold, it was hopeful to also see how she made it through.
I think Kai is going to be one of my top book boyfriends. Hot hockey player, check. Kind and thoughtful man, check. Hardworking and willing to work on his flaws and shortcomings, check and check. He came across as gorgeous inside and out and Kendall is one lucky lady.
I loved Hayden's writing and storytelling and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Kendall and Kai, childhood best friends, turned bf/gf, turned strangers, who find their way back to each other as adults... but Kendall kept a very big secret. Professional hockey player Kai spent the years they were apart chasing his dreams and finding comfort in meaningless encounters all the while trying to get over the one that got away. Kendall spent that time growing and raising the perfect combination of their love, staying away in a misguided attempt to do what she thought was right. When they find their way back to each other emotions are high and feelings are bruised, but that spark, that genuine connection between them never truly died.
Watching this pair struggle through the intense repercussions of Kendall's choice to run was both heart rending and gently beautiful. Life is messy. People make the wrong choices and end up in a place they never wanted to be, separated from the people they thought they could never and would never have to live without. The writing of this struggle felt so real and raw. I wanted to shake Kendall but also hug her. These characters are flawed but also so pure that I really only wanted them to figure out their trauma and find a way back to each other.
The representation of mental health within both characters lives was honest and thoughtful. The author didn't dwell on those aspects, but made them feel true to struggles everyone goes through in their lives. The scene where Kendall spoke about her postpartum depression was really beautiful, even though it was hard to see her suffering unfold, it was hopeful to also see how she made it through.
I think Kai is going to be one of my top book boyfriends. Hot hockey player, check. Kind and thoughtful man, check. Hardworking and willing to work on his flaws and shortcomings, check and check. He came across as gorgeous inside and out and Kendall is one lucky lady.
I loved Hayden's writing and storytelling and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
June 12, 2026
“Would this always be our fate? Living in a convoluted mixture of the past and present, doomed to bring up old wounds that would always somehow feel fresh?”
Whew! 😅 This was an emotional heartbreaking story about how lies and good intentions change the course of a relationship forever. A journey of healing and second chances.
This story was so real and very raw. Told with dual POV and flashbacks throughout the story, the relationship between Kai and Kendall is revealed. We experience the good, the bad, the ugly, hope, despair, and joy. Talk about a roller coaster ride of emotions! Hayden did an incredible job evoking all the FEELS.
Personally, I admire how the mental health rep was written with such finesse and sensitivity. Kendall’s postpartum depression gave me flashbacks of my own personal experience and made me appreciate the authenticity. The mental health struggles Kai deals with is so heart wrenching. They encounter so many obstacles and issues but they refuse to give up on each other. Their tenacity to keep fighting for their love was so beautiful.
Kendall James is fierce, resilient, and such a good mama to Akio. I admire her heart, strength, and kindness. Kai Matsumoto is officially my newest book boyfriend. The things this man said had me swooning. 🫠 He is hands down the sweetest, sexiest MMC and I’m smitten. I thought I wanted morally grey fictional men…Nope. Change my mind. I am switching teams for Daddy Kai. 😍
Thank you Hayden Fox and Fox Cabin Publishing for this arc. It’s a blast being on your street team with The Foxes. This is my honest review.
My kindle is riddled with highlights. It’s quite embarrassing. There are so many good quotes, especially from Kai. Here are some of my favorites:
“I can’t live without you, Ken. I don’t want to. Okay? I can’t. There is no me without you.”
“You know how many times I’ve dreamed of your beautiful face? Your delicious mouth? You are every fucking fantasy that I will ever want, that I’ll ever need. And you’re better than a fantasy because you’re real.”
“I’m not going to stop. Not until you have my last name. Not until I get to wake up every day next to you. Not until I know you both are mine to keep and you are exactly where you belong.”
“I will always love you. I have always loved you.”
Whew! 😅 This was an emotional heartbreaking story about how lies and good intentions change the course of a relationship forever. A journey of healing and second chances.
This story was so real and very raw. Told with dual POV and flashbacks throughout the story, the relationship between Kai and Kendall is revealed. We experience the good, the bad, the ugly, hope, despair, and joy. Talk about a roller coaster ride of emotions! Hayden did an incredible job evoking all the FEELS.
Personally, I admire how the mental health rep was written with such finesse and sensitivity. Kendall’s postpartum depression gave me flashbacks of my own personal experience and made me appreciate the authenticity. The mental health struggles Kai deals with is so heart wrenching. They encounter so many obstacles and issues but they refuse to give up on each other. Their tenacity to keep fighting for their love was so beautiful.
Kendall James is fierce, resilient, and such a good mama to Akio. I admire her heart, strength, and kindness. Kai Matsumoto is officially my newest book boyfriend. The things this man said had me swooning. 🫠 He is hands down the sweetest, sexiest MMC and I’m smitten. I thought I wanted morally grey fictional men…Nope. Change my mind. I am switching teams for Daddy Kai. 😍
Thank you Hayden Fox and Fox Cabin Publishing for this arc. It’s a blast being on your street team with The Foxes. This is my honest review.
My kindle is riddled with highlights. It’s quite embarrassing. There are so many good quotes, especially from Kai. Here are some of my favorites:
“I can’t live without you, Ken. I don’t want to. Okay? I can’t. There is no me without you.”
“You know how many times I’ve dreamed of your beautiful face? Your delicious mouth? You are every fucking fantasy that I will ever want, that I’ll ever need. And you’re better than a fantasy because you’re real.”
“I’m not going to stop. Not until you have my last name. Not until I get to wake up every day next to you. Not until I know you both are mine to keep and you are exactly where you belong.”
“I will always love you. I have always loved you.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Home, you feel like home to me, Ken. You are home to me."
4.5⭐️
It's hard to believe this was Hayden's debut novel because it was so beautifully written and packed with emotion. What an emotional journey this story turned out to be.
This book follows Kai and Kendall as they try to find their way back to each other despite the pain, mistakes, and difficult circumstances that have shaped their lives. While love is a powerful force, it can't thrive without trust, and much of this story revolves around them learning to trust one another again while overcoming their own insecurities and fears.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was how naturally Kai became part of both Kendall and Aiko's lives. His presence never felt forced or motivated by a sense of obligation since he is Aiko's father; instead, it reinforced the feeling that he was always meant to be a part of the family. His connection with both Kendall and their child felt genuine from the very beginning, making their relationship even more meaningful.
The story is definitely character-driven, but a few well-placed plot twists added complexity to the journey and made the eventual payoff all the more rewarding. I also appreciated the realistic portrayal of single motherhood and the emphasis on how honesty, communication, and mutual support are essential foundations for a healthy relationship.
The character development was one of the strongest aspects of the book. Watching Kai and Kendall grow individually made their growth as a couple feel authentic and deeply satisfying.
I loved the side characters as well, especially Jenna and Kendall's moms, who brought so much warmth to the story. And Aiko was absolutely adorable. As a mom myself, I would have loved even more scenes between Aiko and Kai because their bond was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Overall, this was an emotional, heartfelt romance with strong character growth, relatable themes, and a deeply rewarding love story.
Thank you to the author for the advanced e-copy.
4.5⭐️
It's hard to believe this was Hayden's debut novel because it was so beautifully written and packed with emotion. What an emotional journey this story turned out to be.
This book follows Kai and Kendall as they try to find their way back to each other despite the pain, mistakes, and difficult circumstances that have shaped their lives. While love is a powerful force, it can't thrive without trust, and much of this story revolves around them learning to trust one another again while overcoming their own insecurities and fears.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was how naturally Kai became part of both Kendall and Aiko's lives. His presence never felt forced or motivated by a sense of obligation since he is Aiko's father; instead, it reinforced the feeling that he was always meant to be a part of the family. His connection with both Kendall and their child felt genuine from the very beginning, making their relationship even more meaningful.
The story is definitely character-driven, but a few well-placed plot twists added complexity to the journey and made the eventual payoff all the more rewarding. I also appreciated the realistic portrayal of single motherhood and the emphasis on how honesty, communication, and mutual support are essential foundations for a healthy relationship.
The character development was one of the strongest aspects of the book. Watching Kai and Kendall grow individually made their growth as a couple feel authentic and deeply satisfying.
I loved the side characters as well, especially Jenna and Kendall's moms, who brought so much warmth to the story. And Aiko was absolutely adorable. As a mom myself, I would have loved even more scenes between Aiko and Kai because their bond was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Overall, this was an emotional, heartfelt romance with strong character growth, relatable themes, and a deeply rewarding love story.
Thank you to the author for the advanced e-copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book, Kendall's character was so relatable for me, because I also suffered with PPD with my last pregnancy/daughter. It was a rough time, and I realized pretty early on something wasn't right with me.
Please give this a read, you most definitely won't regret it! Thank you for the opportunity to read the way back to you early!
This was a heartfelt second chance hockey romance about first love, heartbreak, and the family they never got to be. The dreams they never got to chase.
Kendall chose survival over love.
Three years ago, she walked away from Kai, the only man she’s ever loved and shattered both their futures in the process. Now she’s a single mom, doing everything she can to protect the life she built, even if it means carrying the weight of the past alone.
Kai has spent the last three years trying to outrun the kind of pain that changes you. The kind of heartache that haunts you. A type A, professional hockey player with a need for control and a life that looks perfect from the outside. He’s done everything he can to move on…except actually heal.
But when Kendall walks back into his life, buried truths begin to surface and both of them are forced to confront the love they lost, the wounds that never healed, and the life that might have been theirs all along.
A story about healing, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who feels like home.
Tropes:
-Interracial couple
-secret baby
-second chance romance
-sports romance
-slow burn
-friends to lovers
-highschool sweethearts/first loves
-emotional scars
-mental health representation
-hockey romance
other:
-dual POV
-alternates between past and present
-spice and swoonworthy moments
-complicated family dynamics
Taglines/Descriptions:
-Not your average hockey romance
-Second chances never looked so good
Please give this a read, you most definitely won't regret it! Thank you for the opportunity to read the way back to you early!
This was a heartfelt second chance hockey romance about first love, heartbreak, and the family they never got to be. The dreams they never got to chase.
Kendall chose survival over love.
Three years ago, she walked away from Kai, the only man she’s ever loved and shattered both their futures in the process. Now she’s a single mom, doing everything she can to protect the life she built, even if it means carrying the weight of the past alone.
Kai has spent the last three years trying to outrun the kind of pain that changes you. The kind of heartache that haunts you. A type A, professional hockey player with a need for control and a life that looks perfect from the outside. He’s done everything he can to move on…except actually heal.
But when Kendall walks back into his life, buried truths begin to surface and both of them are forced to confront the love they lost, the wounds that never healed, and the life that might have been theirs all along.
A story about healing, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who feels like home.
Tropes:
-Interracial couple
-secret baby
-second chance romance
-sports romance
-slow burn
-friends to lovers
-highschool sweethearts/first loves
-emotional scars
-mental health representation
-hockey romance
other:
-dual POV
-alternates between past and present
-spice and swoonworthy moments
-complicated family dynamics
Taglines/Descriptions:
-Not your average hockey romance
-Second chances never looked so good
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a book I had really high hopes for. It started out by grabbing my attention immediately. We meet Ken and her 2.5-year-old son. Being a single parent is not easy, and the daily challenges that come with that came across very well. We also meet Kai, who finds out that she kept his son from him, and when he confronts her about it, they both have to face their past and find a way to move forward.
The dual POV (at the end we get a brief 3rd one) and the switching between past and present helped to highlight the connection between the two of them. They started out as childhood friends and evolved into something more during their teenage years. If you want to see a couple in love that feels believable and has you rooting for them to find their way back to each other, this is the one. I believed every bit of their love story and understood why the connection is still there when they meet again after a few years of no contact.
Ken never learned to love herself, and being Black came with a unique set of challenges while growing up. Kai never considered the colour of her skin to be relevant. Both of them had to face the reality of their relationship over the years, and this was portrayed very well.
Their attempt to find their way back to each other came with a lot of unique hurdles to overcome. They cannot ignore what happened, but they also want to move on. I was rooting for them.
If the story had stayed focused on that and on them building a future together, I would have enjoyed this book so much more. The last third just didn’t resonate with me. The consequences of one person’s actions didn’t fit with everything that came before. I did not understand why this was added as a story arc. I wanted the focus to be on Ken and Kai to overcome the trauma of the past together and come out on top, and this deviation tainted the journey for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The dual POV (at the end we get a brief 3rd one) and the switching between past and present helped to highlight the connection between the two of them. They started out as childhood friends and evolved into something more during their teenage years. If you want to see a couple in love that feels believable and has you rooting for them to find their way back to each other, this is the one. I believed every bit of their love story and understood why the connection is still there when they meet again after a few years of no contact.
Ken never learned to love herself, and being Black came with a unique set of challenges while growing up. Kai never considered the colour of her skin to be relevant. Both of them had to face the reality of their relationship over the years, and this was portrayed very well.
Their attempt to find their way back to each other came with a lot of unique hurdles to overcome. They cannot ignore what happened, but they also want to move on. I was rooting for them.
If the story had stayed focused on that and on them building a future together, I would have enjoyed this book so much more. The last third just didn’t resonate with me. The consequences of one person’s actions didn’t fit with everything that came before. I did not understand why this was added as a story arc. I wanted the focus to be on Ken and Kai to overcome the trauma of the past together and come out on top, and this deviation tainted the journey for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Published by Fox Cabin Publishing
Available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited on June 16th
Pre-Order Open NOW (do it)
Paperback Pre-Order Info Coming Soon!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hayden Fox’s debut novel, The Way Back to You, is filled with heartache, mental health journeys, therapy and healing, secrets, history, hockey, friendships, and most importantly... love.
It’s also got two of the hottest main characters I’ve ever read, some excellent spice, and the most adorable toddler! Hayden has written two beautiful complex characters that are going to stick with readers. And some really special moments that readers will connect with emotionally.
This is a perfectly imperfect look at second chance romance from the inside out. This wasn’t an easy reunion- it was flawed and filled with hurt and pain. There were brutal moments, tender moments, and unanswered questions that kept me hooked throughout. Despite the big circumstances the main characters faced, this felt like an honest and realistic look at how relationships truly can rebuild after breaking. I absolutely loved the mental health representation in this book.
Kendall and Kai’s relationship feels fated- you’ll feel it in your bones while reading. Hayden Fox captures their emotion and passion in such a raw, authentic way and I’m so thrilled for her as she becomes a published author with this story.
Additional Note:
I was honored and thrilled to be one of the first readers of Hayden Fox’s debut novel, The Way Back to You. Hayden and I connected a few months ago via Insta message and I would NEVER have thought then that [fast forward] to LESS THAN a month before her book releases... I’d be helping her with said release! She has been an absolute treasure to work with and is an amazing human!
Available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited on June 16th
Pre-Order Open NOW (do it)
Paperback Pre-Order Info Coming Soon!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hayden Fox’s debut novel, The Way Back to You, is filled with heartache, mental health journeys, therapy and healing, secrets, history, hockey, friendships, and most importantly... love.
It’s also got two of the hottest main characters I’ve ever read, some excellent spice, and the most adorable toddler! Hayden has written two beautiful complex characters that are going to stick with readers. And some really special moments that readers will connect with emotionally.
This is a perfectly imperfect look at second chance romance from the inside out. This wasn’t an easy reunion- it was flawed and filled with hurt and pain. There were brutal moments, tender moments, and unanswered questions that kept me hooked throughout. Despite the big circumstances the main characters faced, this felt like an honest and realistic look at how relationships truly can rebuild after breaking. I absolutely loved the mental health representation in this book.
Kendall and Kai’s relationship feels fated- you’ll feel it in your bones while reading. Hayden Fox captures their emotion and passion in such a raw, authentic way and I’m so thrilled for her as she becomes a published author with this story.
Additional Note:
I was honored and thrilled to be one of the first readers of Hayden Fox’s debut novel, The Way Back to You. Hayden and I connected a few months ago via Insta message and I would NEVER have thought then that [fast forward] to LESS THAN a month before her book releases... I’d be helping her with said release! She has been an absolute treasure to work with and is an amazing human!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Let me tell you something!! As a reader who usually runs the other way from any pregnancy/baby tropes, this one DELIVERED (and if you know me, you know that’s saying a lot). With that being said, let’s get into my reactions while reading this ARC.
First of all, I have not been this obsessed with both an FMC and MMC at the same time as I am with Kai and Kendall. Their relationship is far from perfect, but it’s written and delivered in such a way that you feel everything for these two fictional characters. The mental health representation in this book is incredible—to the point where it had me sitting there reflecting on my own experiences and realizing that my struggles aren’t faults; they’re part of what makes me human and resilient. I love seeing characters open up about their fears and insecurities, and watching them heal and grow through their trauma.
The story gently walks you through Kendall and Kai’s journey… and then suddenly throws you for an absolute loop. A full bamboozle. It got to the point where I was sending scream voice notes to my besties with zero context, and honestly? Worth it.
Hayden Fox absolutely nailed the discussion of heavier topics like anxiety, panic disorder, postpartum depression, and motherhood. The writing is so engaging that you can easily lose yourself for hours—I’m talking “how did I just read 500 pages in a day?” energy.
If this sounds like your kind of read, I highly recommend picking it up when it releases on June 16, 2026. Add it to your TBR now. But be warned—this one will have you deep in your feelings, because it gets real. Like REAL REAL.
Let me tell you something!! As a reader who usually runs the other way from any pregnancy/baby tropes, this one DELIVERED (and if you know me, you know that’s saying a lot). With that being said, let’s get into my reactions while reading this ARC.
First of all, I have not been this obsessed with both an FMC and MMC at the same time as I am with Kai and Kendall. Their relationship is far from perfect, but it’s written and delivered in such a way that you feel everything for these two fictional characters. The mental health representation in this book is incredible—to the point where it had me sitting there reflecting on my own experiences and realizing that my struggles aren’t faults; they’re part of what makes me human and resilient. I love seeing characters open up about their fears and insecurities, and watching them heal and grow through their trauma.
The story gently walks you through Kendall and Kai’s journey… and then suddenly throws you for an absolute loop. A full bamboozle. It got to the point where I was sending scream voice notes to my besties with zero context, and honestly? Worth it.
Hayden Fox absolutely nailed the discussion of heavier topics like anxiety, panic disorder, postpartum depression, and motherhood. The writing is so engaging that you can easily lose yourself for hours—I’m talking “how did I just read 500 pages in a day?” energy.
If this sounds like your kind of read, I highly recommend picking it up when it releases on June 16, 2026. Add it to your TBR now. But be warned—this one will have you deep in your feelings, because it gets real. Like REAL REAL.
Review of advance copy
If you need that reminder that you can mess up and still find your way back to your love, as long as you’re willing to work and fight for it, this one is for you!
There was healing that comes from friendships and people in the same leg of life as you, healing of past trauma, the highs and lows of getting to the end goal. It felt like I was a friend watching everything play out from the outside, wanting the shake them and yell to get it together, but also understanding that the path of healing isn’t a straight path and I loved that.
Being apart of that journey and at some points feeling very seen was something I really enjoyed. Oh and the RISK??? Each character that took that leap and had to learn how to deal with the aftermath of the situation, whether it was good or bad, taking them each on their own journey?? Yes, please!!
Two quotes that I just loved so much that will hopefully entice you to read!
“The confidence to stand up to ignorant, small- minded people, people who believe they are entitled to information because of their privilege and whiteness. It is incredibly insensitive and rude to make assumptions just because you can’t see the physical similarities between us and more importantly, it’s absolutely none of your f***ing business.” - Kendall
When I tell you I was hooting and giving her mental high fives while reading that!
“You know there were times that it felt like Kendall was the only person that was there for me, supported me. Loved me despite feeling very f***ing unloveable by you,” - Kai
This second chance slow burn was one that I really liked!!
There was healing that comes from friendships and people in the same leg of life as you, healing of past trauma, the highs and lows of getting to the end goal. It felt like I was a friend watching everything play out from the outside, wanting the shake them and yell to get it together, but also understanding that the path of healing isn’t a straight path and I loved that.
Being apart of that journey and at some points feeling very seen was something I really enjoyed. Oh and the RISK??? Each character that took that leap and had to learn how to deal with the aftermath of the situation, whether it was good or bad, taking them each on their own journey?? Yes, please!!
Two quotes that I just loved so much that will hopefully entice you to read!
“The confidence to stand up to ignorant, small- minded people, people who believe they are entitled to information because of their privilege and whiteness. It is incredibly insensitive and rude to make assumptions just because you can’t see the physical similarities between us and more importantly, it’s absolutely none of your f***ing business.” - Kendall
When I tell you I was hooting and giving her mental high fives while reading that!
“You know there were times that it felt like Kendall was the only person that was there for me, supported me. Loved me despite feeling very f***ing unloveable by you,” - Kai
This second chance slow burn was one that I really liked!!
June 16, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
This is not your average hockey romance. It’s a beautiful story about the ties that bind us, the wounds that break us, and the kind of love that helps us heal.
This book is packed with emotions and heart. While hockey is part of the story, the real focus is on healing, regret, family dynamics, mental health, heartbreak, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the people who matter most. Hayden Fox handles these themes with so much care and authenticity that every emotion feels raw and real.
Kai and Kendall completely stole my heart. Kai is one of the sweetest and most caring heroes I’ve read.. patient, supportive, and willing to fight for the people he loves. Kendall is strong, resilient, and wonderfully sassy, but beneath her strength is a woman carrying years of pain and difficult choices. I loved both of them individually, but I loved them even more together.
What stood out most was their relationship arc. This isn’t a romance built on grand gestures alone; it’s about two people learning to communicate, heal, and choose each other every day. Their growth felt mature and realistic, and I appreciated how they worked through their struggles together rather than against each other.
Hayden Fox beautifully captures the complexity of love, family, and second chances. The emotional moments hit hard, the healing felt earned, and the journey was both heartbreaking and hopeful. I laughed, I hurt for these characters, and I rooted for them from beginning to end.
If you’re looking for a romance with depth, emotion, and characters you’ll genuinely care about, The Way Back to You is a must-read.
This is not your average hockey romance. It’s a beautiful story about the ties that bind us, the wounds that break us, and the kind of love that helps us heal.
This book is packed with emotions and heart. While hockey is part of the story, the real focus is on healing, regret, family dynamics, mental health, heartbreak, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the people who matter most. Hayden Fox handles these themes with so much care and authenticity that every emotion feels raw and real.
Kai and Kendall completely stole my heart. Kai is one of the sweetest and most caring heroes I’ve read.. patient, supportive, and willing to fight for the people he loves. Kendall is strong, resilient, and wonderfully sassy, but beneath her strength is a woman carrying years of pain and difficult choices. I loved both of them individually, but I loved them even more together.
What stood out most was their relationship arc. This isn’t a romance built on grand gestures alone; it’s about two people learning to communicate, heal, and choose each other every day. Their growth felt mature and realistic, and I appreciated how they worked through their struggles together rather than against each other.
Hayden Fox beautifully captures the complexity of love, family, and second chances. The emotional moments hit hard, the healing felt earned, and the journey was both heartbreaking and hopeful. I laughed, I hurt for these characters, and I rooted for them from beginning to end.
If you’re looking for a romance with depth, emotion, and characters you’ll genuinely care about, The Way Back to You is a must-read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Way Back to You was emotional, tender, and heartbreakingly honest. This story explored grief, healing, forgiveness, and the kind of love that never truly leaves you, even after years apart.
Kendall and Kai felt incredibly real to me. Their relationship carried so much history, pain, longing, and unresolved emotion that every interaction between them felt meaningful. The dual timeline worked beautifully and added so much depth to their story, allowing the past and present to mirror each other in such a powerful way.
What stood out most was how human these characters were. They were flawed, messy, and trying to heal from wounds that shaped who they became. The mental health representation and complicated family dynamics made the story feel grounded and authentic while still delivering all the emotional tension and swoon you want from a second chance romance.
Kai especially had my heart. Beneath the polished exterior was someone carrying so much hurt, and watching both characters slowly confront the past and learn how to heal felt incredibly rewarding.
It’s also hard to believe this is Hayden Fox’s debut novel because the emotional depth and character work were so strong. Supporting Black authors matters, and Hayden absolutely delivered a romance that was both deeply emotional and unforgettable.
If you love second chance romances, hockey romance, secret baby tropes, slow burns, and stories about finding your way back to the person who still feels like home, I highly recommend this one.
Kendall and Kai felt incredibly real to me. Their relationship carried so much history, pain, longing, and unresolved emotion that every interaction between them felt meaningful. The dual timeline worked beautifully and added so much depth to their story, allowing the past and present to mirror each other in such a powerful way.
What stood out most was how human these characters were. They were flawed, messy, and trying to heal from wounds that shaped who they became. The mental health representation and complicated family dynamics made the story feel grounded and authentic while still delivering all the emotional tension and swoon you want from a second chance romance.
Kai especially had my heart. Beneath the polished exterior was someone carrying so much hurt, and watching both characters slowly confront the past and learn how to heal felt incredibly rewarding.
It’s also hard to believe this is Hayden Fox’s debut novel because the emotional depth and character work were so strong. Supporting Black authors matters, and Hayden absolutely delivered a romance that was both deeply emotional and unforgettable.
If you love second chance romances, hockey romance, secret baby tropes, slow burns, and stories about finding your way back to the person who still feels like home, I highly recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨Arc Review✨
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2🌶️🌶️
The Way Back to You had me feeling all sorts of feelings🥹from giddy, to devastated, to frustrated - I went through a roller coaster of emotions. This beautiful romance gives second chances a whole new meaning, the writing is so real and raw that you feel everything the MC’s are going through.
First off, I absolutely adore Kai and Kendall!! From page one I knew they’d end up with a piece of my heart, and I was right. Their relationship is heartbreakingly beautiful, it is far from perfect but what relationship is? Despite their issues they work through it and come out stronger than ever.
Kai🥰my MAN! He was everything I didn’t know I needed. He had a sweet and nurturing side to him, but also had a protective side that had me swooning. I loved how he’d give Kendall words of affirmation and show her how much she meant to him. Do I think he forgave Kendall too easy? Personally, yes. But I think the love he had for her just made it impossible for him to hold any grudges.
Kendall is such a strong woman! She made the impossible decision to walk away from the love of her life for reasons we later on find out, and put herself through college all while raising a baby. The dedication she has to raising Akio is commendable and she did it with such grace. Did her character frustrate me at times? Yes it did, but ultimately it was her insecurities and the fact that she was living in fear that kept her from being openly honest with Kai.
I loooved the dual timelines🤌🏻it gives you a more in depth look at how Kai and Kendall’s relationship transpired from when they were young and how they found their way back to each other. Each past POV chapter had its purpose and it ultimately ties in with the present chapters so well.
Thank you so much to the author for the eArc in exchange for my honest review!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2🌶️🌶️
The Way Back to You had me feeling all sorts of feelings🥹from giddy, to devastated, to frustrated - I went through a roller coaster of emotions. This beautiful romance gives second chances a whole new meaning, the writing is so real and raw that you feel everything the MC’s are going through.
First off, I absolutely adore Kai and Kendall!! From page one I knew they’d end up with a piece of my heart, and I was right. Their relationship is heartbreakingly beautiful, it is far from perfect but what relationship is? Despite their issues they work through it and come out stronger than ever.
Kai🥰my MAN! He was everything I didn’t know I needed. He had a sweet and nurturing side to him, but also had a protective side that had me swooning. I loved how he’d give Kendall words of affirmation and show her how much she meant to him. Do I think he forgave Kendall too easy? Personally, yes. But I think the love he had for her just made it impossible for him to hold any grudges.
Kendall is such a strong woman! She made the impossible decision to walk away from the love of her life for reasons we later on find out, and put herself through college all while raising a baby. The dedication she has to raising Akio is commendable and she did it with such grace. Did her character frustrate me at times? Yes it did, but ultimately it was her insecurities and the fact that she was living in fear that kept her from being openly honest with Kai.
I loooved the dual timelines🤌🏻it gives you a more in depth look at how Kai and Kendall’s relationship transpired from when they were young and how they found their way back to each other. Each past POV chapter had its purpose and it ultimately ties in with the present chapters so well.
Thank you so much to the author for the eArc in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review - ❣️❣️❣️❣️.5 hearts for me
Kendall and Kai completely wrecked me 🥹🖤 This story was so emotional in such a real, human way. They loved each other deeply, lost each other painfully, and still somehow carried that love through all the hurt, distance, and healing. I loved that they weren’t written as perfect people, they were messy, emotional, damaged in their own ways, and that made their connection feel even more believable. Their relationship really felt like first love that never fully left, no matter how much time passed.
What stood out to me most was the mental health representation. The way therapy and counseling were included felt thoughtful and healthy, not forced, and I really appreciated that. It gave the story so much more depth because this wasn’t just about getting back together, it was about growing individually too, learning how to heal, and making space for love in a healthier way. That part honestly made the book feel even more meaningful to me 🤍
And can I just say, the writing was so easy to fall into? It had that emotional pull that makes you want to keep reading even when your heart is already hurting. The whole thing just flowed beautifully and made every scene feel even more intimate and heartfelt.
Tropes: second chance romance, secret child, first love/lost love, single mom heroine, professional hockey romance, found family, emotional healing 🏒💔
Overall, this was such a heartfelt and satisfying read, and I’d definitely recommend it if you love romances that are emotional, tender, and full of growth.
Kendall and Kai completely wrecked me 🥹🖤 This story was so emotional in such a real, human way. They loved each other deeply, lost each other painfully, and still somehow carried that love through all the hurt, distance, and healing. I loved that they weren’t written as perfect people, they were messy, emotional, damaged in their own ways, and that made their connection feel even more believable. Their relationship really felt like first love that never fully left, no matter how much time passed.
What stood out to me most was the mental health representation. The way therapy and counseling were included felt thoughtful and healthy, not forced, and I really appreciated that. It gave the story so much more depth because this wasn’t just about getting back together, it was about growing individually too, learning how to heal, and making space for love in a healthier way. That part honestly made the book feel even more meaningful to me 🤍
And can I just say, the writing was so easy to fall into? It had that emotional pull that makes you want to keep reading even when your heart is already hurting. The whole thing just flowed beautifully and made every scene feel even more intimate and heartfelt.
Tropes: second chance romance, secret child, first love/lost love, single mom heroine, professional hockey romance, found family, emotional healing 🏒💔
Overall, this was such a heartfelt and satisfying read, and I’d definitely recommend it if you love romances that are emotional, tender, and full of growth.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews