What do you think?
The Cocky Kingmans #8
The Lion in the Library
She’s spent her whole career being looked at. He’s spent his whole career being watched. Neither of them had ever truly been seen—until a lost stuffed lion brought them together in a Los Angeles library.
I came to Los Angeles to finish my book and consider a career-changing offer to join their football, umm….I mean soccer team. I am not looking for a woman. Especially not one with two kids, two ex-husbands, and a dialect coach who keeps telling her to sound less like herself.
Then she walks into the library like a golden age movie star, carrying two children and somehow still looking like she owns the place. She doesn’t recognize me. I don’t recognize her. For the first time in fifteen years, I’m just a man. Not The Lion. Not the famous footballer. Just Leo.
Turns out she’s only the most famous telenovela star in all of Mexico.
And I’m only the most famous soccer player in the world.
And we’re both starting over in L.A.
But when the paparazzi come knocking and jealous exes start making trouble, I realize that for the first time in my career, I’m genuinely terrified of losing. Not a match. Not a trophy. Just one woman who licks her ice cream cone like it’s the role of a lifetime and still doesn’t even know my jersey number.
I’m completely done for.
Before Tempest gets her story in The Jackass in Class, meet the grandparents who showed her that real love means being seen for exactly who you are—in this swoony, sexy prequel to the Cocky Kingmans series, featuring a confident plus-size heroine who knows her worth, a hero who can’t believe his luck, and a telenovela love story you’ll wish you could watch on the big screen.
I came to Los Angeles to finish my book and consider a career-changing offer to join their football, umm….I mean soccer team. I am not looking for a woman. Especially not one with two kids, two ex-husbands, and a dialect coach who keeps telling her to sound less like herself.
Then she walks into the library like a golden age movie star, carrying two children and somehow still looking like she owns the place. She doesn’t recognize me. I don’t recognize her. For the first time in fifteen years, I’m just a man. Not The Lion. Not the famous footballer. Just Leo.
Turns out she’s only the most famous telenovela star in all of Mexico.
And I’m only the most famous soccer player in the world.
And we’re both starting over in L.A.
But when the paparazzi come knocking and jealous exes start making trouble, I realize that for the first time in my career, I’m genuinely terrified of losing. Not a match. Not a trophy. Just one woman who licks her ice cream cone like it’s the role of a lifetime and still doesn’t even know my jersey number.
I’m completely done for.
Before Tempest gets her story in The Jackass in Class, meet the grandparents who showed her that real love means being seen for exactly who you are—in this swoony, sexy prequel to the Cocky Kingmans series, featuring a confident plus-size heroine who knows her worth, a hero who can’t believe his luck, and a telenovela love story you’ll wish you could watch on the big screen.
138 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2026
About the author
Amy Award
15 books3,221 followersAmy Award is a curvy girl who has a thing for football players, fuzzy-butt pets, and spicy romance novels. She believes that all bodies are beautiful and deserve their own love stories with Happy Ever Afters. Find her at AuthorAmyAward.com
Amy also writes curvy girl paranormal romances with dragons, wolves, demons, and vampires, as Aidy Award. If that’s your jam, check those books out at AidyAward.com
Amy also writes curvy girl paranormal romances with dragons, wolves, demons, and vampires, as Aidy Award. If that’s your jam, check those books out at AidyAward.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
September 1, 2026
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Starting Over
Ahhh! They use payphones! 😆 I really don't miss those things. 😂 The kids are cute, as is the budding relationship. I like where this goes.
Despite their fame, this is a quiet novella that is easy to enjoy in seemingly no time. Due to the lack of computers and cellphones, I think this steps back to the 1980s. I'm not mathing beyond that tonight.
Estrella Flores has been dealt quite the hand when it comes to love and poor decisions. I like that she doesn't just take the garbage they step in. Even more, I love that she puts her kids first and isn't afraid to try something new and scary.
Leo “The Lion” Ramírez is so easy to like. He's straightforward, charming in a tender way, and immediately taken with Estrella and her kids. I love his desire to protect and care for them.
I expected heat, but other than a few kisses and passionate caresses, it isn't in the cards. The story stands on its own merits, but that doesn't mean I'm not a little disappointed.
In the epilogue, we meet Tempest. I believe she's the focus of book 5 in this series. It's a sweet interaction, making me appreciate this couple even more.
I listened to the audio book. The narrators are Oscar Reyes and Vanessa Vasquez. They are fabulous with great accents. 🎧💚🎧
Story: 3.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 2.0x
H = 32; h = 28
TROPES & TRIGGERS:
⚽️ Football / soccer romance
⏳️ Stepping back in time, set in 1980s
🔘 Fade to black
💕 Second chance, new love
🎬 Actress x Football midfielder
💃 Dancing for connection, love
🇲🇽 Latinx MCs
👩❤️💋👨 Single Mom
Starting Over
Ahhh! They use payphones! 😆 I really don't miss those things. 😂 The kids are cute, as is the budding relationship. I like where this goes.
Despite their fame, this is a quiet novella that is easy to enjoy in seemingly no time. Due to the lack of computers and cellphones, I think this steps back to the 1980s. I'm not mathing beyond that tonight.
Estrella Flores has been dealt quite the hand when it comes to love and poor decisions. I like that she doesn't just take the garbage they step in. Even more, I love that she puts her kids first and isn't afraid to try something new and scary.
Leo “The Lion” Ramírez is so easy to like. He's straightforward, charming in a tender way, and immediately taken with Estrella and her kids. I love his desire to protect and care for them.
Estrella. The beautiful star. Even her name was captivating.
-- Leo Ramírez
I expected heat, but other than a few kisses and passionate caresses, it isn't in the cards. The story stands on its own merits, but that doesn't mean I'm not a little disappointed.
In the epilogue, we meet Tempest. I believe she's the focus of book 5 in this series. It's a sweet interaction, making me appreciate this couple even more.
I listened to the audio book. The narrators are Oscar Reyes and Vanessa Vasquez. They are fabulous with great accents. 🎧💚🎧
Story: 3.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 2.0x
H = 32; h = 28
TROPES & TRIGGERS:
⚽️ Football / soccer romance
⏳️ Stepping back in time, set in 1980s
🔘 Fade to black
💕 Second chance, new love
🎬 Actress x Football midfielder
💃 Dancing for connection, love
🇲🇽 Latinx MCs
👩❤️💋👨 Single Mom
Read
August 26, 2026I had to dnf the book at 40% because ill be honest i don't think a white author should have written 2 Latinx leads. Thats my personal opinion.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, sexy time, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-
Slowinsta
Fat shamming
Hea
Epilogue
No ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, sexy time, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-
Slowinsta
Fat shamming
Hea
Epilogue
August 27, 2026
4🌟 | 1🌶️
This was such a sweet, easy-to-read romance!
I loved Estrella and Leo’s adorable library meet-cute, their natural chemistry, and especially how effortlessly Leo became part of her family. The kids added so much charm, too.
I also really enjoyed the deeper themes around identity, immigration, and feeling pressured to change parts of yourself to fit in. Seeing Estrella and Leo support each other while building a little family of their own made their relationship feel especially meaningful.
I just wish I’d had more time with them because I was so invested by the end. Still, this was a warm, uplifting romance with lovable characters, plenty of green flags, and a lovely message about staying true to yourself.
This was a short, sweet read and left me wanting more in the best way.
~~~~
A huge thank you to Amy Award and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This was such a sweet, easy-to-read romance!
I loved Estrella and Leo’s adorable library meet-cute, their natural chemistry, and especially how effortlessly Leo became part of her family. The kids added so much charm, too.
I also really enjoyed the deeper themes around identity, immigration, and feeling pressured to change parts of yourself to fit in. Seeing Estrella and Leo support each other while building a little family of their own made their relationship feel especially meaningful.
I just wish I’d had more time with them because I was so invested by the end. Still, this was a warm, uplifting romance with lovable characters, plenty of green flags, and a lovely message about staying true to yourself.
This was a short, sweet read and left me wanting more in the best way.
~~~~
A huge thank you to Amy Award and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
August 22, 2026
This is a quick, fast-paced, and heartwarming novella! What I love about this series in general is how body-positive it is, focusing on people actively choosing each other and making it work. Having already read Jackass in the Class, this novella was a fantastic extra look, that added so much to Tempest and her family. The library meet-cute was adorable, and on a lighter note, I loved the contingency towel and Leo! Beyond the sweetness, I really appreciated the deeper message about immigration—the struggle of feeling forced to tone down authentic parts of yourself to assimilate and facing negative perceptions. Watching Leo and Estrella build their own support network together made their relationship, more.
August 29, 2026
I really need white authors to pay more attention. There are ways of writing about non white characters without trying to write a culture and lived experience that do not belong to you! No amount of "my friend is latine" will excuse this. No - just no!! No one is saying you cant write about non white characters, we are asking you to stop writing about lived experiences and cultures that DO NOT BELONG TO YOU! Period. And to be clear I'm ONLY referring to Latine in this instance. I will not speak on behalf of other communities, because that is NOT my place. - see how that works?!?!.. Super easy.
*MASSIVE f***ing sigh*
And to the readers that are over here saying things like "there was nothing wrong with this per say, I just couldn't connect with the characters" - I highly highly request that you do some soul searching as to why. I don't say that in a negative way. I genuinely ask that you sit with that question and think. Not because of this book, but because it comes up over and over and over anytime black and brown characters are involved. I'm not here to argue with anyone and this is not an invitation to either . Frankly I'm tired.
*MASSIVE f***ing sigh*
And to the readers that are over here saying things like "there was nothing wrong with this per say, I just couldn't connect with the characters" - I highly highly request that you do some soul searching as to why. I don't say that in a negative way. I genuinely ask that you sit with that question and think. Not because of this book, but because it comes up over and over and over anytime black and brown characters are involved. I'm not here to argue with anyone and this is not an invitation to either . Frankly I'm tired.
August 31, 2026
This was a really fun and sweet novella. I loved both of the main characters. The way they met and connected so unexpectedly. This was a really fun read. Too bad it wasn’t a bit longer, I wouldn’t have minded. It was also a fun ALC to listen to. The narration really brought this life and made these characters jump right off the page.
August 21, 2026
Who doesn’t want to meet their soulmate in the library? This was a sweet and heartwarming romance novella. I love the authors use of language and range. This world is effortlessly beautiful in its richness making the movie in my mind crystal clear. There is such depth of character and connection between Stella and Leo. A joy to listen to with such talented voice actors. It’s uplifting and delivers a big dose of feel good endorphins!
“Some things feel inevitable, like they were always meant to be.”
What to expect:
💕 Single Mother
⚽️ Football Player
🎬 Telenovela Star
📚 Series Prequel (can be read as a standalone)
🦁 Found Family
🫑 No spice
🎙️Dual Narration | 3hrs 30
🗓️ Release : August 25 2026
📖 Thank you to Amy Award, NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for the ALC. My thoughts are my own.
“Some things feel inevitable, like they were always meant to be.”
What to expect:
💕 Single Mother
⚽️ Football Player
🎬 Telenovela Star
📚 Series Prequel (can be read as a standalone)
🦁 Found Family
🫑 No spice
🎙️Dual Narration | 3hrs 30
🗓️ Release : August 25 2026
📖 Thank you to Amy Award, NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for the ALC. My thoughts are my own.
September 1, 2026
The Lion In The Library is only the second book I have listened to by Amy Award,and I enjoyed it.
These stories are low on Spice so be aware of that if you only listen to steamy romance.
This is a quick fast paced book between a single Mum and a Football/Soccer player.
Estrella and Leo meet eachother in the library and there is instant chemistry and what ensues after is a really sweet romance between them.
I fell in love with Leo he is just wonderul the way he cared for Estrella and her children,he fits into their lives seamlessly.
He knows what he wants and he goes for it in a gentle way.
Narration by Oscar Reyes and Vanessa Vasquez are Fabulous reading this story they portrayed these characters wonderfully and I thoroughly enjoyed their performances.
This is an endearing story that will capture both your imagination and heart.
Lovely listen.- Cat W.
These stories are low on Spice so be aware of that if you only listen to steamy romance.
This is a quick fast paced book between a single Mum and a Football/Soccer player.
Estrella and Leo meet eachother in the library and there is instant chemistry and what ensues after is a really sweet romance between them.
I fell in love with Leo he is just wonderul the way he cared for Estrella and her children,he fits into their lives seamlessly.
He knows what he wants and he goes for it in a gentle way.
Narration by Oscar Reyes and Vanessa Vasquez are Fabulous reading this story they portrayed these characters wonderfully and I thoroughly enjoyed their performances.
This is an endearing story that will capture both your imagination and heart.
Lovely listen.- Cat W.
August 27, 2026
3.5 rounded up. Cute. Pretty typical Amy Award. It was great to see the story of Abeula and Abeulo although the timeline was a bit wonky I couldn’t tell if 2 days had passed or 2 weeks or 2 months and given the repetition of things in the story it seemed longer than it needed to be. Loved seeing Tempest and the rest of the family at the end too.
August 27, 2026
⭐ 3.5/5
Quotes:
• "But I had learned the hard way that fairy tales were just that—tales. Real life was messier, less predictable, and far less kind to women who dared to hope for happily ever after."
• "As I walked to my car, I felt lighter than I had in years, as if some burden I hadn’t even been aware of carrying had been lifted from my shoulders. In Estrella and her children, I had found something I didn’t know I was looking for—a sense of belonging, of rightness, that had been missing from my carefully constructed life."
• "I knew what I was walking into when I fell in love with you.” She went very still. “With you,” I said, “and with Luz and Pedro and your impossible agent and your very firm opinions about La Lotería strategy and your mother, who is clearly right about everything. I knew what it was. I chose it anyway. I am still choosing it.” I paused. “Did I not mention that I love you?"
• "We had both been looking, I thought. We had simply found each other before we’d finished. I let myself out quietly, and went to be an actress in Hollywood, and left Leo Ramírez in my kitchen, writing something true."
Quotes:
• "But I had learned the hard way that fairy tales were just that—tales. Real life was messier, less predictable, and far less kind to women who dared to hope for happily ever after."
• "As I walked to my car, I felt lighter than I had in years, as if some burden I hadn’t even been aware of carrying had been lifted from my shoulders. In Estrella and her children, I had found something I didn’t know I was looking for—a sense of belonging, of rightness, that had been missing from my carefully constructed life."
• "I knew what I was walking into when I fell in love with you.” She went very still. “With you,” I said, “and with Luz and Pedro and your impossible agent and your very firm opinions about La Lotería strategy and your mother, who is clearly right about everything. I knew what it was. I chose it anyway. I am still choosing it.” I paused. “Did I not mention that I love you?"
• "We had both been looking, I thought. We had simply found each other before we’d finished. I let myself out quietly, and went to be an actress in Hollywood, and left Leo Ramírez in my kitchen, writing something true."
August 21, 2026
I wanted more! I didn't realize it was a novella and I was so invested in these characters. I loved their flirting, the sweet way in which Leo embracing being a trusted and loving adult for Estrelle's children and the stand by me vibes that both main characters demonstrated for each other. I was so sad when it was over. Also the narrators, Oscar Reyes & Vanessa Vasquez, were just incredible. I was captivated by their performance and felt myself swept away by their storytelling ability.
Thank you Dreamscape for the gifted audiobook!
Thank you Dreamscape for the gifted audiobook!
August 26, 2026
This story is about the grandparents of Tempest. They were a big part of her story and it was nice reading how they met. How their love story came about.
Neither Estrella or Leo were looking for anything. Estrella was just trying to figure out life as a single mom of 2 and having an acting career in a new country. Leo was just trying to figure out who he was when he wasn’t the big Football(Soccer) star.
Their love grew quickly. They got each other. They both knew what it was like to be in the spotlight and also trying to figure out how to be a person when you’re not in the spotlight.
I love how Leo accepts that Estrella had a bus and crazy life. That she has 2 small children that come first. He knows that and still embraces it. Still shows up and is there for her.
Neither Estrella or Leo were looking for anything. Estrella was just trying to figure out life as a single mom of 2 and having an acting career in a new country. Leo was just trying to figure out who he was when he wasn’t the big Football(Soccer) star.
Their love grew quickly. They got each other. They both knew what it was like to be in the spotlight and also trying to figure out how to be a person when you’re not in the spotlight.
I love how Leo accepts that Estrella had a bus and crazy life. That she has 2 small children that come first. He knows that and still embraces it. Still shows up and is there for her.
September 2, 2026
I read both the audiobook version and the ebook- and I have to say- I loved the voice actors that Amy Award chose - they sound so authentically real - like how the characters may actually sound - and I loved learning more about Tempest’s grandparents… and the love story that grew between Estella- and leo when Estrella first met him at the library …like it was meant to be …
As with any of the other books in this series this one did not disappoint
As with any of the other books in this series this one did not disappoint
August 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this short story. It was so cute and love that we got to see the impact Temptess's grandparents had on her.😭 I lowkey wish we got more of these two.
October 3, 2026
3,5 stars
August 29, 2026
This is a heart warming easy to read novella that delves further into the much loved Cocky Kingman series. Estrella is starting a new life with her two kids when she stumbles into Leo at the library (everyone’s dream meet-cute ensues).
Amy Award expertly creates chemistry between the protagonists, creating an effortless family dynamic as Leo begins to become a permanent fixture in the lives of her children.
Not a 5 star due to the repetitive writing patterns used i.e someone did something ‘with the’ of something. I swear if I have to read another sentence like this 😂
Amy Award expertly creates chemistry between the protagonists, creating an effortless family dynamic as Leo begins to become a permanent fixture in the lives of her children.
Not a 5 star due to the repetitive writing patterns used i.e someone did something ‘with the’ of something. I swear if I have to read another sentence like this 😂
August 25, 2026
I listened to the audiobook and loved every second of it! Leo made me cry a few times, especially when he interacted with the kids. The best Kingman-adjacent story in the Kingman universe!
July 15, 2026
Get to know the love story between Tempest’s grandparents in this lovely prequel to The Jackass in Class. The love story of a telenovela star with two small children and a famous footballer meeting in a library was adorable. The characters felt honest and well adjusted despite their fame. I was rooting for this couple the whole time and it was great to see their life so many years into the future.
Single Mom finds new love
So many green flags
Low angst
Thank you Amy Award and Dreamscape Media for providing this ALC. Comments and opinions above are my own.
#TheLionInTheLibrary #NetGalley
Single Mom finds new love
So many green flags
Low angst
Thank you Amy Award and Dreamscape Media for providing this ALC. Comments and opinions above are my own.
#TheLionInTheLibrary #NetGalley
August 20, 2026
Super cute novella! Always love Amy Award and her writing!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A meet-cute at a library (and a short story)? Say less! This one had me hooked from the very beginning, and I'm so glad I picked up this sweet novella! Honestly, I initially grabbed The Lion in the Library by Amy Award because I fell in love with the cover art and saw the two credited narrators. I’ve listened to tons of romance books narrated by Vanessa Vasquez and adore her style, and please don't get me started with Oscar Reyes as Danny Garcia for Please Don't Go by E. Salvador. He's one of my all-time favorites. 😍❤️ Getting both of them together in one book? An absolute dream pairing, and they did not disappoint!
This story was such a charming, heartwarming romance. I loved every second of it, starting right from their adorable library meet-cute. The FMC is an actress, balancing working in Hollywood and being a single mom, and the MMC is an iconic football player. As the FMC is working with a dialect coach, the story dives into some surprisingly deep themes about identity and authenticity. I loved how the author explored what it means to stay true to who you are and your culture, rather than changing yourself to be more palatable or to conform to the standards of Hollywood casting.
Both characters are creatives at heart, and I loved how that connected them. With our MMC being a talented athlete, the book also beautifully tackles the "what's next" phase of life. It digs into what happens when you've devoted your entire life to a sport, achieved milestones, and suddenly wonder about finding a new path. I loved as he navigated that transition and the theme of finding love in unexpected places. I love other books with this type of theme too, when an accomplished athlete is trying to figure out their next steps in life, like Kai in Caught Up by Liz Tomforde, Zaid in Crash Into You by Simone Soltani, and Alejandra in Above Water by Elena Locatelli.
As for the audiobook itself? Flawless. I loved it! Vanessa and Oscar did an amazing job capturing the characters' emotional highs and lows. I love when narrators subtly shift their voices for supporting characters (like Vanessa's tone for the FMC's mom, or Oscar's distinct female dialogue) because it keeps the performance from feeling flat or robotic. It was so dynamic! Even sped up to 1.75x, their pacing, intonations, and emotions came through perfectly clear. While I would have loved a duet-style narration for their back-and-forth dialogue, their alternating dual POV chapters still completely swept me away.
Honestly, my only complaint is that I wanted more. I could have easily read a full-length novel in this world because the characters and their love story were just that good.
And the epilogue? Cue the happy warm fuzzies. It was literally so heartwarming. Sometimes novella epilogues just jump a few months or a year ahead, but Amy Award took it even further in a really creative way that perfectly tied together her themes of legacy, love, and loyalty.
If you are looking for a short, cozy romance with a massive amount of heart, bookish themes, and a beautiful message about representation and staying true to yourself, please put this on your TBR immediately. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Perfect if you love:
❤️ BIPOC Lead Characters (FMC and MMC)
📚 Library meet-cute (swoon!)
❤️ Single mom FMC
⚽️ Football athlete MMC
✨️ Celebrity athlete/actress romance
🥰 Found family
❤️ Themes of Identity & Cultural authenticity
💛 Finding your next chapter in life
🎧 Dual POV & Dual Narration
Sports Romance Books like:
⚾️ Caught Up by Liz Tomforde
🏁 Crash Into You by Simone Soltani
🌊 Above Water by Elena Locatelli
Thank you to the author, Amy Award, and Dreamscape Media for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook via NetGalley for review consideration. I am writing this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
This story was such a charming, heartwarming romance. I loved every second of it, starting right from their adorable library meet-cute. The FMC is an actress, balancing working in Hollywood and being a single mom, and the MMC is an iconic football player. As the FMC is working with a dialect coach, the story dives into some surprisingly deep themes about identity and authenticity. I loved how the author explored what it means to stay true to who you are and your culture, rather than changing yourself to be more palatable or to conform to the standards of Hollywood casting.
Both characters are creatives at heart, and I loved how that connected them. With our MMC being a talented athlete, the book also beautifully tackles the "what's next" phase of life. It digs into what happens when you've devoted your entire life to a sport, achieved milestones, and suddenly wonder about finding a new path. I loved as he navigated that transition and the theme of finding love in unexpected places. I love other books with this type of theme too, when an accomplished athlete is trying to figure out their next steps in life, like Kai in Caught Up by Liz Tomforde, Zaid in Crash Into You by Simone Soltani, and Alejandra in Above Water by Elena Locatelli.
As for the audiobook itself? Flawless. I loved it! Vanessa and Oscar did an amazing job capturing the characters' emotional highs and lows. I love when narrators subtly shift their voices for supporting characters (like Vanessa's tone for the FMC's mom, or Oscar's distinct female dialogue) because it keeps the performance from feeling flat or robotic. It was so dynamic! Even sped up to 1.75x, their pacing, intonations, and emotions came through perfectly clear. While I would have loved a duet-style narration for their back-and-forth dialogue, their alternating dual POV chapters still completely swept me away.
Honestly, my only complaint is that I wanted more. I could have easily read a full-length novel in this world because the characters and their love story were just that good.
And the epilogue? Cue the happy warm fuzzies. It was literally so heartwarming. Sometimes novella epilogues just jump a few months or a year ahead, but Amy Award took it even further in a really creative way that perfectly tied together her themes of legacy, love, and loyalty.
If you are looking for a short, cozy romance with a massive amount of heart, bookish themes, and a beautiful message about representation and staying true to yourself, please put this on your TBR immediately. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Perfect if you love:
❤️ BIPOC Lead Characters (FMC and MMC)
📚 Library meet-cute (swoon!)
❤️ Single mom FMC
⚽️ Football athlete MMC
✨️ Celebrity athlete/actress romance
🥰 Found family
❤️ Themes of Identity & Cultural authenticity
💛 Finding your next chapter in life
🎧 Dual POV & Dual Narration
Sports Romance Books like:
⚾️ Caught Up by Liz Tomforde
🏁 Crash Into You by Simone Soltani
🌊 Above Water by Elena Locatelli
Thank you to the author, Amy Award, and Dreamscape Media for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook via NetGalley for review consideration. I am writing this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Lion In The Library by Amy award, I listen to the audiobook with some of the best narration from the suite dolsit tones of Vanessa Vazquez, two Oscar Reyes who’s sultry tones will have you swunning. So what is more perfect to read when you have such talented narrators is to have them perform a suite and clean romance perfect for stories about finding the one who really really sees you. Estrayia just made a big move to LA from Mexico where she was a famous actress and here she’s just trying to make herself known while doing that she’s also trying to give her children a new stability and routine by going to the library while she does her language classes and this is where they meet Leo. He’s a gorgeous man from Spain but what Estrayia and her kids doesn’t know is he’s one of the most famous soccer players in the world initially they both just believe they ran into some hot people but when Leo sees the little girl Lucy left her lion behind he takes it with them so he could give it back to her and secretly hoping he’ll get to speak to the mom just one more time. Thanks to the interference of six-year-old Lucy and four year-old Pedro the couple will see each other again and it soon turns into something even the public knows about. This is when despite not contacting her or their children since moving to America Estraya‘s two ex-husbands what she’s doing letting their kids be with strangers one threatens to take custody of the little boy he doesn’t even know in the other just came thinking he was going to intimidate his ex-wife not knowing there’s a new sheriff in town and that sheriffs name is Leo or according to the children he loves “our Leo!“ everything about being with Leo is different from him stepping in to help with children without being ex and despite they’re not his to when he’s not training or being Leo he’s at home with his ready-made family and she can tell he couldn’t be happier to be there. Reading the list of this authors pass books made me lol because you wouldn’t think with that list of titles such a perfect sweet romance flourish but as my Uncle Ace used to say every hoe really wants to be a housewife and secretly every housewife wants to be a hoe. no let me just say that isn’t based on any fact or scientific study just something a southern man raised on Paps Blue Ribbon used to always say and I thought of it while reading her other titles. in any event this is a five star read those absolutely no flaws in this book there’s not a sex scene but with hot narration like we have in this book who needs sex scenes this was just a sultry but respectful good time. I love the kids personalities I loved the end of the book when you get to see them 30 years later this is just an absolute home run I love it she should do couples for many different countries or some sort of series because I would definitely be reading that not so much other titles such as “wieners wieners everywhere“ although I’m sure there’s readers for that as well this world is a big place. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I knew my time with the Cocky Kingmans series was probably coming to an end after Book 6, which is why I passed on Book 7. However, when this novella popped up on NetGalley for review (thanks to Dreamscape), my curiosity got the better of me. I wanted to see how Amy Award would pivot now that she’d run out of Kingman brothers while still maintaining the heart of the series.
On the positive side, this story didn’t feel nearly as repetitive as some of the other books, which was ultimately why I chose not to continue with the main series. It stands on its own and is quite different from the previous installments.
Unfortunately, this is also where my issues began.
Award appears to be making a deliberate effort to incorporate more diversity, but in doing so, the focus seems to shift away from the central love story that has traditionally been the strength of her books. The romance feels secondary rather than driving the narrative.
The audiobook production further highlighted this problem. While I appreciated that Mexican American narrators were cast, it often sounded as though they were performing accents that weren’t natural to their everyday speech. This was especially noticeable with Vanessa Vasquez, whose accent felt inconsistent throughout the recording. Oscar Reyes was somewhat more consistent, but at times his delivery bordered on caricature.
As someone who is not Latina, I’m not going to comment on the authenticity of the cultural representation itself. What I can say is that for stories centered on Latinx experiences, I would rather seek out works written by Latinx authors. Diversity within a fictional world is important, but it felt unusual to see a white author suddenly centering stories around identities she has not previously explored in her work. Between Clover in Book 7 and this novella, it comes across as though diversity is being added for its own sake rather than growing organically from the story, and that approach rarely produces strong results.
As for the story itself, it simply fell flat for me. I understand that a novella won’t have the same depth as a full-length novel, but where Honkers for the Holidays succeeded in feeling complete and emotionally satisfying despite its shorter length, this novella did the opposite. The chemistry between the characters never fully developed, and I never felt invested in their romance. Instead, it read more like a collection of scenes or outtakes from a larger work that had been stitched together.
In the end, this experience confirmed that it’s time for me to move on from the series. I’ll keep the fond memories of the earlier books and leave it there rather than letting curiosity pull me back again.
On the positive side, this story didn’t feel nearly as repetitive as some of the other books, which was ultimately why I chose not to continue with the main series. It stands on its own and is quite different from the previous installments.
Unfortunately, this is also where my issues began.
Award appears to be making a deliberate effort to incorporate more diversity, but in doing so, the focus seems to shift away from the central love story that has traditionally been the strength of her books. The romance feels secondary rather than driving the narrative.
The audiobook production further highlighted this problem. While I appreciated that Mexican American narrators were cast, it often sounded as though they were performing accents that weren’t natural to their everyday speech. This was especially noticeable with Vanessa Vasquez, whose accent felt inconsistent throughout the recording. Oscar Reyes was somewhat more consistent, but at times his delivery bordered on caricature.
As someone who is not Latina, I’m not going to comment on the authenticity of the cultural representation itself. What I can say is that for stories centered on Latinx experiences, I would rather seek out works written by Latinx authors. Diversity within a fictional world is important, but it felt unusual to see a white author suddenly centering stories around identities she has not previously explored in her work. Between Clover in Book 7 and this novella, it comes across as though diversity is being added for its own sake rather than growing organically from the story, and that approach rarely produces strong results.
As for the story itself, it simply fell flat for me. I understand that a novella won’t have the same depth as a full-length novel, but where Honkers for the Holidays succeeded in feeling complete and emotionally satisfying despite its shorter length, this novella did the opposite. The chemistry between the characters never fully developed, and I never felt invested in their romance. Instead, it read more like a collection of scenes or outtakes from a larger work that had been stitched together.
In the end, this experience confirmed that it’s time for me to move on from the series. I’ll keep the fond memories of the earlier books and leave it there rather than letting curiosity pull me back again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Audiobook Review 🎧:
So I listened to the audiobook version of this book. The narration was honestly chef’s kiss 🤌🏼 Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were absolutely perfect for these characters. Since the characters themselves are Hispanic, having narrators who could bring that cultural authenticity through their accents made such a difference. Their accents really helped portray the story the way I feel it was meant to be experienced, and it made the characters feel that much more real. Their narration was just so good!
Now, funny enough, I usually listen to audiobooks anywhere from 1.25x to 2x speed. But this one? Nope. I had to keep it at normal speed because between the accents and the faster pacing, I sometimes struggled to comprehend what they were saying when I sped it up. But honestly…that’s a good problem to have, not a bad one! The fact that I wanted to slow down and actually take in every word because the narration was so well done says a lot. Vanessa and Oscar absolutely nailed their performances.
As for the story itself, I thought it was good. My biggest issue was that it was SO short. It felt more like a novella. And because there was so little page time, I felt like a lot of details were either skipped over or glossed over that I think were pretty important to the storyline. I wanted more! And then we get to that ending… THIRTY YEARS LATER?! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with such a massive time jump. We went from them getting engaged to suddenly being 30 years into the future, and I was sitting there like…wait, WHAT?! There was so much life in between that I wanted to see!
Overall, though, I really enjoyed the audiobook experience. Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were phenomenal, and their performances genuinely elevated the story for me. I just wish the story itself had been longer so we could have gotten more of the details and moments that felt like they were missing.
Definitely worth listening to for the narration alone!
So for me, the ratings are a little split:
🎧 Narration: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📖 Story: 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free ALC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So I listened to the audiobook version of this book. The narration was honestly chef’s kiss 🤌🏼 Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were absolutely perfect for these characters. Since the characters themselves are Hispanic, having narrators who could bring that cultural authenticity through their accents made such a difference. Their accents really helped portray the story the way I feel it was meant to be experienced, and it made the characters feel that much more real. Their narration was just so good!
Now, funny enough, I usually listen to audiobooks anywhere from 1.25x to 2x speed. But this one? Nope. I had to keep it at normal speed because between the accents and the faster pacing, I sometimes struggled to comprehend what they were saying when I sped it up. But honestly…that’s a good problem to have, not a bad one! The fact that I wanted to slow down and actually take in every word because the narration was so well done says a lot. Vanessa and Oscar absolutely nailed their performances.
As for the story itself, I thought it was good. My biggest issue was that it was SO short. It felt more like a novella. And because there was so little page time, I felt like a lot of details were either skipped over or glossed over that I think were pretty important to the storyline. I wanted more! And then we get to that ending… THIRTY YEARS LATER?! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with such a massive time jump. We went from them getting engaged to suddenly being 30 years into the future, and I was sitting there like…wait, WHAT?! There was so much life in between that I wanted to see!
Overall, though, I really enjoyed the audiobook experience. Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were phenomenal, and their performances genuinely elevated the story for me. I just wish the story itself had been longer so we could have gotten more of the details and moments that felt like they were missing.
Definitely worth listening to for the narration alone!
So for me, the ratings are a little split:
🎧 Narration: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📖 Story: 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free ALC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2026
I genuinely loved this book. It took me a minute to understand the timeline because I was so confused when they said they used another coin when making calls 😂 I was thinking to myself “why is she using a pay phone shouldn’t she have a phone” yeah I figured out this was set in the past before cellphones were a thing. I’m just so used to books using today’s technology but I eventually got there.
As a Hispanic myself I don’t understand the comments about “white authors writing about a different culture”. The push for more inclusivity in everything nowadays is loud. So I don’t understand why this is an issue.
Showing that making the transition from Mexican television (where she is loved and known in Mexico) to coming to Hollywood where people really don’t care who she was. The pressure to change who you are or how you speak to conform into the “Hollywood standard”. Trying to change something that makes you who you are to fit into a mold.
Will this author know what that is like as a person of color? No she wouldn’t but she’s shining a light on what a person of color experiences. It’s rare to see a Mexican/Latino/ Hispanic people represented so thank you. I listen to enjoy a book I’m not here to criticize every little thing. And I enjoyed their love story.
We got to see a single mom who has had life kick her down in the love department and she’s trying to restart her life after betrayal. We see a Soccer star fall in love with not just her but her kids. A man that shows up and wants to walk beside her in life not come to her rescue. This made my heart feel good. It wasn’t about spice, we didn’t even have any open door spice and even when they did take that step it was only mentioned once in the book.
Time frames of the story confused me. I couldn’t tell how long things progressed. If it was the next day, next week or next month.
The narrators did an amazing job! I normally listen to books at 2x or faster depending on the narrator but with this one I actually didn’t. They kept me interested in the book and were awesome.
I did get this as an ALC I signed up for but my opinion is 100% my own but I am thankful I was given the opportunity.
As a Hispanic myself I don’t understand the comments about “white authors writing about a different culture”. The push for more inclusivity in everything nowadays is loud. So I don’t understand why this is an issue.
Showing that making the transition from Mexican television (where she is loved and known in Mexico) to coming to Hollywood where people really don’t care who she was. The pressure to change who you are or how you speak to conform into the “Hollywood standard”. Trying to change something that makes you who you are to fit into a mold.
Will this author know what that is like as a person of color? No she wouldn’t but she’s shining a light on what a person of color experiences. It’s rare to see a Mexican/Latino/ Hispanic people represented so thank you. I listen to enjoy a book I’m not here to criticize every little thing. And I enjoyed their love story.
We got to see a single mom who has had life kick her down in the love department and she’s trying to restart her life after betrayal. We see a Soccer star fall in love with not just her but her kids. A man that shows up and wants to walk beside her in life not come to her rescue. This made my heart feel good. It wasn’t about spice, we didn’t even have any open door spice and even when they did take that step it was only mentioned once in the book.
Time frames of the story confused me. I couldn’t tell how long things progressed. If it was the next day, next week or next month.
The narrators did an amazing job! I normally listen to books at 2x or faster depending on the narrator but with this one I actually didn’t. They kept me interested in the book and were awesome.
I did get this as an ALC I signed up for but my opinion is 100% my own but I am thankful I was given the opportunity.
September 15, 2026
This is An ARC which I don't how to explain if I love this or just like this cuz it kinda mixed for me🤧😶🌫️
Plot:
Two divorced + Single mom for two children + famous actress who changed countries for the children and her new beginnings and got small role in Hollywood movie/series...So when she went to library for her kids and also for her english improvements she met a handsome man with glasses and notebook in hand asked if this seat taken near hers.... This man is a famous soccer player have nickname "The Lion" but she doesn't know him at all...When her daughter lost her one of the bestest toy "stuffed lion" she sad but got back the other day by this "lion" man.... Then they started to talk but this friendly talks ends in happily ever after or her another biggest mistake on her marriage life???
Review:
Well It's kinda fast paced when I meant fast paced it doesn't mean the story is so lovely dovey and gripping etc it just fastly done like saw each other then talks then came home with her for dinner and talks with the children like the three were known eachother since childhood then I don't know when they started to dating in between these but it's already 6 months and he said "I love you" like I even don't read anything about I like you or I wanna pursue you.. no it's just already dating then proposed...When I'm processing these suddenly it's his retirement of his soccer life decided to stay with her then she got the role-that i don't have any issues with- then suddenly live in together then it's after one year....Like I'm in the position where I thought -wait didn't i just started this book like an HOUR ago and what do you mean it's after one year and he got the RING for her to propose???Then BOOM epilogue after 30 years with their granddaughters and her daughter & Son were became successful in life as they wished...
Then THE END.....
I knew it's just 139 pages but still I didn't saw any yearning or banter just pure love story but gone like a running race robot so yeah....
Maybe ⭐⭐⭐✨3.25/5
Spice - Zero👌🏻
Thank you @valentine_pr_ for this ARC opportunity 💕✨
Plot:
Two divorced + Single mom for two children + famous actress who changed countries for the children and her new beginnings and got small role in Hollywood movie/series...So when she went to library for her kids and also for her english improvements she met a handsome man with glasses and notebook in hand asked if this seat taken near hers.... This man is a famous soccer player have nickname "The Lion" but she doesn't know him at all...When her daughter lost her one of the bestest toy "stuffed lion" she sad but got back the other day by this "lion" man.... Then they started to talk but this friendly talks ends in happily ever after or her another biggest mistake on her marriage life???
Review:
Well It's kinda fast paced when I meant fast paced it doesn't mean the story is so lovely dovey and gripping etc it just fastly done like saw each other then talks then came home with her for dinner and talks with the children like the three were known eachother since childhood then I don't know when they started to dating in between these but it's already 6 months and he said "I love you" like I even don't read anything about I like you or I wanna pursue you.. no it's just already dating then proposed...When I'm processing these suddenly it's his retirement of his soccer life decided to stay with her then she got the role-that i don't have any issues with- then suddenly live in together then it's after one year....Like I'm in the position where I thought -wait didn't i just started this book like an HOUR ago and what do you mean it's after one year and he got the RING for her to propose???Then BOOM epilogue after 30 years with their granddaughters and her daughter & Son were became successful in life as they wished...
Then THE END.....
I knew it's just 139 pages but still I didn't saw any yearning or banter just pure love story but gone like a running race robot so yeah....
Maybe ⭐⭐⭐✨3.25/5
Spice - Zero👌🏻
Thank you @valentine_pr_ for this ARC opportunity 💕✨
Review of advance copy
💃🏻"You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. Not because you conform to some narrow idea of what beautiful means. Because when you laugh, your whole body commits to it. Because your eyes flash when you're angry. Because you carry yourself like a queen even when life has treated you like anything but." I paused. "Because you are real, and you're here, and you're you."🕺🏻
"I can’t see anything I don’t like about you." — Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 🤍
I absolutely love Estrella 🥹❤️ She is honestly one of the most wonderful, interesting, and unique FMCs I’ve ever encountered. She is simply amazing... strong, confident, talented, proud, and always carrying herself with so much class and grace 👑✨
And she’s not only an incredible woman, but also an amazing mother 🫶🏻 She is protective, supportive, and always encourages her children to be strong and confident. And her kids? I absolutely adore them! 🥰 They’re just as strong, confident, and wonderful as their mom 💛
And then there’s Leo 😍 I love that, despite being confident, he is never cocky. Quite the opposite... he’s humble, knows his worth, knows what he wants, and works hard to achieve it. I love his protectiveness, patience, and devotion, but what I love most is how supportive and encouraging he is 🫠☺️ He isn’t afraid to be honest about his feelings, and he constantly reminds Estrella just how beautiful and incredible she is 🥹
I absolutely loved this book! 💕 The 138 pages flew by so quickly that I barely realized I had reached the end 🫣 And even though it’s a short book, it never feels rushed. The story flows so naturally from chapter to chapter that you really feel like you get to know Estrella and Leo, understand their personalities, and feel their connection ⭐🦁
This was such an enjoyable and heartwarming read, and I honestly didn’t want it to end! 🥹❤️
I highly recommend this one, especially if you love:
🏠 single mom
⚽ soccer romance
📺 telenovela star FMC
💃🏻plus size FMC
✍🏻 writer MMC
📖 The Lion in the Library by Amy Award (ARC) ✨📚💛
"I can’t see anything I don’t like about you." — Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 🤍
I absolutely love Estrella 🥹❤️ She is honestly one of the most wonderful, interesting, and unique FMCs I’ve ever encountered. She is simply amazing... strong, confident, talented, proud, and always carrying herself with so much class and grace 👑✨
And she’s not only an incredible woman, but also an amazing mother 🫶🏻 She is protective, supportive, and always encourages her children to be strong and confident. And her kids? I absolutely adore them! 🥰 They’re just as strong, confident, and wonderful as their mom 💛
And then there’s Leo 😍 I love that, despite being confident, he is never cocky. Quite the opposite... he’s humble, knows his worth, knows what he wants, and works hard to achieve it. I love his protectiveness, patience, and devotion, but what I love most is how supportive and encouraging he is 🫠☺️ He isn’t afraid to be honest about his feelings, and he constantly reminds Estrella just how beautiful and incredible she is 🥹
I absolutely loved this book! 💕 The 138 pages flew by so quickly that I barely realized I had reached the end 🫣 And even though it’s a short book, it never feels rushed. The story flows so naturally from chapter to chapter that you really feel like you get to know Estrella and Leo, understand their personalities, and feel their connection ⭐🦁
This was such an enjoyable and heartwarming read, and I honestly didn’t want it to end! 🥹❤️
I highly recommend this one, especially if you love:
🏠 single mom
⚽ soccer romance
📺 telenovela star FMC
💃🏻plus size FMC
✍🏻 writer MMC
📖 The Lion in the Library by Amy Award (ARC) ✨📚💛
August 26, 2026
Okay, I wasn't expecting this one to be quite so sweet.
The Lion in the Library by Amy Award is one of those quick romances that just makes you smile.
Estrella and Leo meet in the library and there is an immediate spark between them. For Leo, it was pretty much love at first sight, and I have to admit... I thought that was adorable.
But what really got me was Leo.
This man is a famous footballer who is aggressive as hell on the field, yet when it comes to Estrella and her children, we get to see a completely different side of him.
Her children were never an obstacle for him to overcome.
He loved them because they were part of her.
And watching this big, tough footballer be loving, patient, caring and persistent with Estrella and her children was one of the most heartwarming parts of the story.
Leo doesn't just decide he wants Estrella. He keeps showing her that he's there, that he cares and that he's not going anywhere.
And honestly?
That was really sweet.
This is a fade-to-black romance, so if you're looking for a story where the emotional connection matters more than the spice, this one definitely fits that mood.
And sometimes I just want SWEET.
No emotional gymnastics. No complicated drama. Just two people finding each other and making me sit there with a stupid little smile on my face.
And the audiobook?
Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were phenomenal. Their voices were perfect for this installment and they brought Estrella and Leo to life in a way that made this sweet little story even more enjoyable to listen to.
I also loved that this is the prequel to the Cocky Kingmans series. Getting to experience Estrella and Leo's story before the rest of the series made this such a fun introduction to the world.
This was a quick listen and worth every minute.
The Lion in the Library gave me a sweet romance, a hero with a seriously soft heart and a story that left me smiling when it was over.
Sometimes the best romances are the ones that simply make you happy.
Read it. Listen to it. Come scream with me afterward. 💜
— Naughty Book Nook
The Lion in the Library by Amy Award is one of those quick romances that just makes you smile.
Estrella and Leo meet in the library and there is an immediate spark between them. For Leo, it was pretty much love at first sight, and I have to admit... I thought that was adorable.
But what really got me was Leo.
This man is a famous footballer who is aggressive as hell on the field, yet when it comes to Estrella and her children, we get to see a completely different side of him.
Her children were never an obstacle for him to overcome.
He loved them because they were part of her.
And watching this big, tough footballer be loving, patient, caring and persistent with Estrella and her children was one of the most heartwarming parts of the story.
Leo doesn't just decide he wants Estrella. He keeps showing her that he's there, that he cares and that he's not going anywhere.
And honestly?
That was really sweet.
This is a fade-to-black romance, so if you're looking for a story where the emotional connection matters more than the spice, this one definitely fits that mood.
And sometimes I just want SWEET.
No emotional gymnastics. No complicated drama. Just two people finding each other and making me sit there with a stupid little smile on my face.
And the audiobook?
Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes were phenomenal. Their voices were perfect for this installment and they brought Estrella and Leo to life in a way that made this sweet little story even more enjoyable to listen to.
I also loved that this is the prequel to the Cocky Kingmans series. Getting to experience Estrella and Leo's story before the rest of the series made this such a fun introduction to the world.
This was a quick listen and worth every minute.
The Lion in the Library gave me a sweet romance, a hero with a seriously soft heart and a story that left me smiling when it was over.
Sometimes the best romances are the ones that simply make you happy.
Read it. Listen to it. Come scream with me afterward. 💜
— Naughty Book Nook
August 26, 2026
Libraries, lions, and stars, oh my!
💖📚 Story: 5 ⭐️s
🎧🎤 Narration: 5 ⭐️s
I absolutely adored this Cocky Kingmans prequel novella. Amy Award’s TLitL is the story of Tempest’s Abuela Estrella and Abuelo Leo and it is everything that is sweet and lovely. The starlet single mom and the soccer star would-be author, are both figuring out their next chapters, and that leads, quite appropriately, to a perfect library meet-cute. Along the way there is a stuffed lion with an impeccable sense of fashion, lots of toy cars, and man gone from the jump for the FMC’s heart and curves. And it it absolute joy.
Estrella has captivated since she came on scene in Tempest’s book, where her love story with Leo was this rarified relationship to be aspired to. It’s wonderful that Award brought that love story to life with this addition. It feels like such a gift to the fans of the series! Estrella is fierce and loving. Leo is somewhat more reserved, but he feels deeply, contains multitudes, and falls hard - the best kind of MMC! His interactions with the kids and his utter support and devotion to them, as well as to Estrella, are completely irresistible.
The audiobook is fabulous! Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes both give excellent performances. I truly enjoyed how they both embodied Award’s characters. Vasquez was a great match for Estrella’s spirit and strength. She played the determined actress, the loving mom, and woman on the verge of a new romance with ease. There is a steadying tranquility alongside the sexiness of Leo that Reyes deftly captured. Both performances together make this a listen worthy of all the stars!
I’m grateful to Amy Away, Valentine PR, and NetGalley for the chance to listen to this audiobook. I also read the book via KU. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
💖📚 Story: 5 ⭐️s
🎧🎤 Narration: 5 ⭐️s
I absolutely adored this Cocky Kingmans prequel novella. Amy Award’s TLitL is the story of Tempest’s Abuela Estrella and Abuelo Leo and it is everything that is sweet and lovely. The starlet single mom and the soccer star would-be author, are both figuring out their next chapters, and that leads, quite appropriately, to a perfect library meet-cute. Along the way there is a stuffed lion with an impeccable sense of fashion, lots of toy cars, and man gone from the jump for the FMC’s heart and curves. And it it absolute joy.
Estrella has captivated since she came on scene in Tempest’s book, where her love story with Leo was this rarified relationship to be aspired to. It’s wonderful that Award brought that love story to life with this addition. It feels like such a gift to the fans of the series! Estrella is fierce and loving. Leo is somewhat more reserved, but he feels deeply, contains multitudes, and falls hard - the best kind of MMC! His interactions with the kids and his utter support and devotion to them, as well as to Estrella, are completely irresistible.
The audiobook is fabulous! Vanessa Vasquez and Oscar Reyes both give excellent performances. I truly enjoyed how they both embodied Award’s characters. Vasquez was a great match for Estrella’s spirit and strength. She played the determined actress, the loving mom, and woman on the verge of a new romance with ease. There is a steadying tranquility alongside the sexiness of Leo that Reyes deftly captured. Both performances together make this a listen worthy of all the stars!
I’m grateful to Amy Away, Valentine PR, and NetGalley for the chance to listen to this audiobook. I also read the book via KU. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
August 27, 2026
Review of Advance Listener copy received from the author and VPR
The Lion in the Library by Amy Award
Book 8 in the Cocky Kingman series
Narrators
Vanessa Vasquez
Oscar Reyes
Tropes
Athlete/Actress
He falls first
Guarded hearts
Divorced Single mom
Library meet cute
Plus size heroine
This was such an authentic narration. You can feel the struggles, exhaustion, joy and feeling of love that come out so beautifully. This is such a great listen that needs to be experienced. Once you start you will not believe that it is over so quickly. It makes you feel warm and cozy.
Stella is rushing to get her children to story time at the library when the story starts out. Stella is a single mom to two children, Luce a six year old little girl and Pedro, a four year old boy. Once she gets the set up on the rug she collapses in a chair at a nearby table. She is exhausted from the day. She is a telenovela actress that has moved to Los Angeles to try and get away from parts of her past and become a star like she was in Mexico. She has been through two divorces and has a mistrust in men because of this.
Leo is a famous football (soccer) star that plays in Madrid but is living in Los Angeles trying to write his book about being a football star. He is in the library when he sees Stella and decides to have a conversation with. There is just something that captivates him about her. After Stella and her children are gone he spot the little stuffed lion that had belonged to Luce. He picks it up and puts it in his bag hoping to see her again for her and to return the little stuffed lion. As they navigate a new and beautiful friendship they will have to deal with press, ex husband’s, doubts in their on minds. But what is on the other side may be something worth all the problems that they face as long as it is together.
The Lion in the Library by Amy Award
Book 8 in the Cocky Kingman series
Narrators
Vanessa Vasquez
Oscar Reyes
Tropes
Athlete/Actress
He falls first
Guarded hearts
Divorced Single mom
Library meet cute
Plus size heroine
This was such an authentic narration. You can feel the struggles, exhaustion, joy and feeling of love that come out so beautifully. This is such a great listen that needs to be experienced. Once you start you will not believe that it is over so quickly. It makes you feel warm and cozy.
Stella is rushing to get her children to story time at the library when the story starts out. Stella is a single mom to two children, Luce a six year old little girl and Pedro, a four year old boy. Once she gets the set up on the rug she collapses in a chair at a nearby table. She is exhausted from the day. She is a telenovela actress that has moved to Los Angeles to try and get away from parts of her past and become a star like she was in Mexico. She has been through two divorces and has a mistrust in men because of this.
Leo is a famous football (soccer) star that plays in Madrid but is living in Los Angeles trying to write his book about being a football star. He is in the library when he sees Stella and decides to have a conversation with. There is just something that captivates him about her. After Stella and her children are gone he spot the little stuffed lion that had belonged to Luce. He picks it up and puts it in his bag hoping to see her again for her and to return the little stuffed lion. As they navigate a new and beautiful friendship they will have to deal with press, ex husband’s, doubts in their on minds. But what is on the other side may be something worth all the problems that they face as long as it is together.
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