That Rush

by Alexis Winter, Kimberly Stripling (Editor), Lindee Robinson (Photographer)

I came back to Virginia Dale with a six-year-old daughter, a broken past, and one build a life stable enough that nothing could knock us down again.
Then Paige Whitaker walked into my life with that witty sarcasm, dangerous legs, and absolutely NO interest in being claimed by a Slade.

She’s the town’s snarky librarian with an opinion about my family about as big as she is.
A woman with her nose always stuffed in a book.
A woman who likes her quiet life exactly the way it is.

And for some damn reason, that only makes me want her more.

Paige doesn’t need rescuing. Doesn’t need fixing.
Doesn’t need a man complicating her perfectly peaceful Sundays.

Too bad I can’t stop wanting to be that complication.

Every time she turns me down, I get more determined.
Every time she smiles, I forget why taking things slow is supposed to be smart.
And every time I catch a glimpse of the filthy books she reads, I start wondering what it would take to get her to act out one of those scenes.

I should be focused on rebuilding. On doing things right this time.
Instead, I’m thinking about Paige in ways that are anything but careful.

But Paige doesn’t want forever. She wants independence. Space.
The freedom to go with the flow and see where life takes her.

And I’m the kind of man who wants roots. Stability. A home my daughter can count on.

But the rush I feel when Paige looks at me like I’m the risk she wants to take?
That’s the kind of feeling a man either fights for… or spends the rest of his life regretting.

433 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 11, 2026

About the author

Alexis Winter is a contemporary romance author who loves to share her steamy stories with the world. She specializes in sexy billionaires, cocky alphas, brooding bad boys and the women they love. 

If you love to curl up with a good romance book you will certainly enjoy her work. Whether it's a story about an innocent young woman learning about the world or a sassy and fierce heroine who knows what she wants you're sure to enjoy the happily ever afters she provides.
 
When Alexis isn't writing away furiously, you can find her exploring the Rocky Mountains, traveling, enjoying a glass of wine or petting a cat.
 
You can find her books on Amazon.

Reviews

[TrishAM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another charming romance in the lives of the wealthy, brewery owning, Slade family.
Aiden Slade was divorced from his wife, Krista, he had moved from Virginia Dale to Texas to take care of the Slade family interest there. Aiden was now back home and things had started to improve between Aiden and Krista, he was now getting more visits with the six year old daughter that he adored. It was whilst Krista was driving Josie for one of these visits, that the car that she was driving was involved in a collision, Josie survived, Krista didn't. Aiden was left with full care of a very bright, chatty verging on precocious, but very cute, Josie.
Women were the last thing on Aiden's mind but that soon changed when he met children's librarian, Paige Whittaker, he was smitten, and after all he had the famous Slade charm, a charm that unfortunately, Paige didn't succumb to.
Paige was a loner, a loaner who loved books, who loved children and a loaner who would protect her Fridays at her cabin where she would indulge herself with a glass of wine, a hammock and an (often filthy) book.........blisssss. Paige didn't need a man but she was attracted to the Slade triplet, even though she knew that he was one of the ruggedly handsome, wealthy Slade siblings.
Aiden was trying so hard, and he did have an adorable daughter, but Paige valued her privacy, would she ever agree to share any of it with Aiden and Josie ? it was tempting, but was it tempting enough.
This is a lovely romantic story, the tit for tat banter between Paige and Aiden is brilliantly funny but it does lose it's appeal somewhat after so long. Aiden is so likeable, he tries so hard with Paige, he tries to listen to her wishes, sometimes he gets it wrong but he is quick to apologise, Paige, on the other hand, I didn't like so much, she wanted her Fridays and she wanted Aiden, she seemed to take a lot more than she gave, but that is only my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aiden is one of the Slade brothers. He works hard on the ranch, which is pretty much his life. Up until now, he has seen his daughter when it works in their schedule but after the death of her mother, he is now a full-time father and learning what all that involves. He cares for her and gives her the time she needs to adjust. Josie is a typical young girl with lots of energy and enthusiasm for life. I felt she quickly got over the death of her mother and her life being relocated to living with her dad. Aiden's parents were very supportive and helpful.
Paige is the town librarian. She reminds me of an only child. She is set in her ways and not willing to give up what she wants. Her Friday nights with a book, a glass of wine and her hammock are what she lives for.
There is a whole lot of banter going on in this book that felt overdone at times. That's where the Paige possibly being an only child came out with me. She has to chose to do something and refuses to be pushed even if it didn't seem Aiden was pushing her. She was reluctant to meet him half way. I understand wanting her own way but as a middle child I totally understand compromising and not getting what you want 100% of the time. With the way she is in bed, I think she could be a closet dominatrix.
They make the relationship work and Josie is happy in the end.

[Rena Spensley · Rating 5 out of 5]

💕 Single dad/widower
👧 Sweet daughter Josie
📚 Librarian heroine
🤠 Cowboy romance
🔥 Slow burn
❤️ Second chance at love
💔 Emotional healing

This was a heartwarming romance filled with tenderness, family, chemistry, and plenty of feels. Aiden, Paige, and Josie completely stole my heart!

Aiden and Paige reminded me why I love romance novels so much. Sometimes the best love stories aren’t about finding love for the first time, they’re about finding the courage to believe you deserve it again.

f you like your cowboys rugged, protective, emotionally damaged, secretly soft, and ridiculously HOT, put this book on your TBR immediately. 🤠🥵🔥

5 stars because apparently 10 stars wasn’t an option. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Now excuse me while I go stare into space and suffer through my Aiden Slade book hangover. 😭🤠❤️🔥

This was exactly the kind of romance that reminds you why you love romance books in the first place. A beautiful story about grief, healing, family, and finding love when you least expect it.

And Paige reading romance books for “research”? Ma’am. 😂📚🔥 I support the research.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carmela Dimattia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so very excited for this book and being back with the Slade family and I was not disappointed. I absolutely adored Aiden, Paige and Josie (Aiden’s very intelligent six year old daughter). While the attraction between Aiden and Paige scorching hot it is the story of loss and finding yourself again that will truly be what draws you in. My heart broke for little Josie especially as her and Aiden deal with their loss but the Slade family will never let one of their own struggle. Paige instantly formed a bond with Josie and it was so beautiful to read their journey in this relationship just as much as Paige and Aiden’s. Although Aiden tried to give Paige her space and respect her boundaries he pushed her to the point of despair but once they both truly understood each other the only way was up for them. This is a truly awesome series and I have enjoyed each and every book and I hope to be able to read more of this family in future books.

I received an arc copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is yet another fantastic installment in the series, and it completely drew me in from the very first page. The characters are witty, funny, and so full of life—you can’t help but root for them throughout the story. The plot is beautifully developed, perfectly balancing heartwarming moments with engaging twists, keeping me hooked until the end.

One of the highlights of this book is the delightful little girl who completely steals the show. She’s endearing and charming, and I found myself smiling in every scene she appeared in. The journey to the happy ending felt earned and satisfying, leaving me with that warm, content feeling that only the best romances can provide.

If you’re a fan of heartfelt romance with humor, great pacing, and memorable characters, That Rush is a must-read. Alexis Winter has done it again!

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real Love is Patience, Trust and Understanding -
This is an unforgettable novel about dealing with loss and the terrifying act of finding the right balance between loving someone and the fear of losing another person, whilst simultaneously ensuring your child isn’t suffering. This a scorching standalone, second-chance at love romance story took me on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster and is guaranteed to leave feeling good, as there is no cheating, no cliffhangers and more importantly an ultra-hot happily ever after is guaranteed. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the books in The Slade Brothers Second Generation series.

I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Darlene Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 7 of the Slade Brother's, Second, Generation and an ARC provided to me by the author.
We meet Aiden, one of 3 triplets, who returns to his hometown and family ranch with his six year old daughter in tow.
Alexi Winter has created the perfect pairing with Aiden and Paige, the town librarian.
We see magic happen between these two, he is smitten, she needs no one and likes her life just the way it is.
The quiet librarian, as we come to learn, has a wild side to her.
A lot of patience and energy in many forms are discovered in their wants and needs.
Permissions are learned in the asking and the volley of dialogue is welcomed and entertaining.
That Rush is the feeling one gets that make your pulse stutters in a good way.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aiden Slater has recently lost his ex wife and now has full custody of his daughter Josie.

Paige is the local librarian and Aiden has an attraction to her, Paige is very principled, where Aiden wants to take control, plan their future, all Paige can look at is the here and now.

Their conflict with dealing with this difference ends in a separation, the storyline goes through their journey and is enjoyable.

Paige’s character made me frustrated in parts of this book as I want her to give Aiden a break as she was being unreasonable or taking comments too far, this took over the storyline for me so wasn’t a 5* rating.

[Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aiden is one of the triplets that falls in love last. He already failed once. Now he is a widower with a 6-year-old daughter. He likes to plan, solve problems, and take charge. Paige is the librarian. She has children’s books down and reads romance. She wants love but fears to lose her independence. They have chemistry and love each other. But sometimes love is not enough. Even with his supportive family around, they almost lose each other. They have to communicate and work things out together. Paige is a lucky woman. Aiden listens and does everything she wants for her. Hard to find a man better than that.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic book about coming back to town and finding the woman you know you want.

Paige is a librarian, strong and independent and does not want Aiden or his daughter ruining her peace.

I enjoyed Paige but also liked her finding that peace as well with Aiden. He was bull headed and wanted what he wanted which i found a little off putting at first but he Redeemed himself significantly.

So well done a great character play and a plot that kept me entertained.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bookworm.8540 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition to an already awesome series! The Slade's have always been my favorite from Alexis, both first and second generation. All the Slade men are pretty awesome characters. The family can be over the top sometimes, but thats what makes them Slades. Love Aiden's character and that he moved back home. The beginning is a little sad for him and his daughter. I have love/hate feelings for Paige. I love a strong independent woman and wanting time to yourself, but her character definitely takes the whole my choice a little to far sometimes.

[Belinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this delightful book by Alexis. We are back in the Slade family world again with Aiden’s story. Aiden is a single dad dealing with his new normal when he spots Paige, the town librarian. Paige is not swayed by The Slade name and likes her peace and quiet, so Aiden has his work cut out as he falls first. I enjoyed their dynamic and add in a cute little girl and you have a good story. I received this book as an arc for my honest opinion,

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great fun book to read! Aiden’s ex wife dies in a car accident so he now has his daughter Josie living with him. Josie loves to read so they go to the library very often. The librarian Paige is a single woman who loves reading books and helping with the children’s activities in the library. Aiden falls hard for Paige and they have lots of fun together. Great book! I really enjoyed the chemistry between Aiden and Paige.

[Lyne Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it !

Wonderful writing, as usual :)
Made me smile and swoon often; with great chemistry, lots of good conversations and sizzling chemistry between the leading characters.

Had a bit of a hard time connecting with Josie, but it didn't last long
Always fun to visit with the Slade family !

Recommended book and series.
I received a copy of this book and leaving an honest and voluntary review.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unsure whether its a relationship or not. Its what he wants. She wants one day at a time or one week at a time. Can they agree on what they are. Pressure just pushes her away. She will make her own decisions on her own timeline. Learning to manage that could become the problem.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aiden and Paige definitely took the very long road to get where they were meant to be, but every inch of that road was a journey in itself. They both needed growth individually and together as a couple, and in the end they both did it beautifully.

Second generation series aren’t usually my cup of tea, but these second generation Slades are definitely worth the read.

[Alison Ramsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aiden is a widowed single dad to six year old Josie and Paige is the local children's librarian. Paige is quite stubborn and independent. Aiden is used to being in charge and whilst he learned to ask rather than assume, I felt Paige was at times too self indulgent and negative. This is an enjoyable, fun, flirty romance but unfortunately my least favourite of the series.

[Liz Sadowsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aiden and Paige’s story is quite the read. Talk about sass between these two, it’s off the charts. Then you add in an adorable six year, Aiden’s daughter Josie it just can’t get any better. This book keeps you reading Just to find out what they are going to say and do next. Wonderful characters and read!

[Afolasade · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rush is the latest addition to The Slade Brothers Second Generation series. This is a wonderful book. Its about Aiden a widower with a six years old daughter who decides to move back home after losing his ex wife and Paige, the sassy librarian. This is a great fun read and I enjoyed it. Great characters, beautiful story line and a page turner. I received an ARC for my honest voluntary review

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review for a honest review in my own words on a book I read . This story was very cute ,I liked the characters and chemistry . I understand why Paige didn't want to lose herself in the relationship but I also felt she expected alot from Aiden .