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Chicago Railers Hockey #5
Keep Me Close (Model Cover): An Enemies-to-Lovers, Fake Dating, Off-Limits Hockey Romance
Keep Me Close is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity pro hockey romance featuring a protective hero, a secret crush that refuses to stay hidden, and the kind of slow-burn tension neither of them can ignore.
424 pages, Paperback
Published August 27, 2026
About the author
Jennifer Sucevic
66 books2,465 followersJennifer is the USA Today Bestselling Author of King of Campus. She currently resides in Michigan with her husband, kids, a dog named Rocky, and a kitten named Lily. After pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology also from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, she spent five years working as a high school counselor before moving out of state with her family. She enjoys reading, writing, and traveling. Please contact Jennifer at jmolitor6@hotmail.com. Connect with Jennifer on facebook- https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.suc... or check her out on Wattpad- https://www.wattpad.com/user/jsucevic. Jennifer can also be found on Tumblr at jsucevic (inspiration board).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
August 21, 2026
Crack. This series is seriously crack. Once I get one of these books in my hands I can’t put it down. And just as expected, I got Keep Me Close in my hands and there was no way I was going to let go unless you grabbed it from my cold dead hands. That is how obsessed I am with the Chicago Railers series. It has me in a complete chokehold.
If you love a hockey romance with a walking talking green flag golden retriever who is down bad for their FMC, then this entire series needs to be on your TBR. And Keep Me Close, has everything that I love about this series and so much more.
I absolutely loved Knox and Cheyenne's story. Their banter was so much fun! Cheyenne had such a fun personality and always had a witty comeback to Knox. And Knox, he was such a green flag. He's been obsessed with his off limits brother's sister in law but the moment she shows up to his doorstep needing protection and help, he was the only one for the job. And like he's down bad. He has been for years and when he got his opportunity to turn something fake into something real, it was a real memorable time 👀 IYKYK
I will say this, if you have the opportunity to and are an audiobook girlie, definitely do the audio for this book. It is performed in duet narration by THE CJ Bloom and Alex Knox. CJ Bloom was THE perfect Cheyenne. I find CJ does a fabulous narration for a character who has a fun and spunky personality. Her narration really translates well with the banter. And Alex? That man 🫠🫠🫠 enough said. The two together were top tier!
*I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Jennifer Sucevic and VPR for allowing me to listen to the ALC for Keep Me Close in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
If you love a hockey romance with a walking talking green flag golden retriever who is down bad for their FMC, then this entire series needs to be on your TBR. And Keep Me Close, has everything that I love about this series and so much more.
I absolutely loved Knox and Cheyenne's story. Their banter was so much fun! Cheyenne had such a fun personality and always had a witty comeback to Knox. And Knox, he was such a green flag. He's been obsessed with his off limits brother's sister in law but the moment she shows up to his doorstep needing protection and help, he was the only one for the job. And like he's down bad. He has been for years and when he got his opportunity to turn something fake into something real, it was a real memorable time 👀 IYKYK
I will say this, if you have the opportunity to and are an audiobook girlie, definitely do the audio for this book. It is performed in duet narration by THE CJ Bloom and Alex Knox. CJ Bloom was THE perfect Cheyenne. I find CJ does a fabulous narration for a character who has a fun and spunky personality. Her narration really translates well with the banter. And Alex? That man 🫠🫠🫠 enough said. The two together were top tier!
*I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Jennifer Sucevic and VPR for allowing me to listen to the ALC for Keep Me Close in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
August 29, 2026
Cheyenne Benson caught Knox McNichols’ attention the first time she showed up at his family’s home. A confirmed bachelor, he’s spent the last six years wondering why he can’t let go of the fantasy of making her his.
When her ex refuses to take the hint, Chey turns to Knox, thinking she’ll be safe halfway across the country. Despite his initial hesitation, Knox can’t resist the opportunity to protect her.
Yearning and angst galore! It’s clear Knox has been head over heels for Chey for years, but as a notorious playboy, he has no idea what to do with those feelings. Once she steps into his world, though, it becomes pretty obvious she’s exactly where she belongs - by his side, in his bed, and making a life of her own.
Not every book needs to ruin my morals. Every once in a while, I need something fluffy, swoony, and steamy without being outright spicy. This was the perfect palate cleanser - a little break from the dark, dirty, and depraved before I inevitably dive right back in.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult, Sports
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
Length: 📚📚📚
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 😩😊🫠🥰😍
Darkness: 🩶
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Fake Relationship, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Heroine in Danger
💫 Microtropes: He Falls First, Jersey Moment
🔆 Character: Athlete, Celebrity (Reality TV Star)
💋 Kinks: Finger Licking Good
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
🚩 Red Flags: Jealous/Possessive/Obsessive, Tracking/Spying (Consensual)
⛔️ Safety Squad: OM Drama (Crazy Ex), Stalking (Not by MMC)
📍 Setting: Chicago, Illinois 🇺🇸
📣 Type: Keep Me Close is part of the Chicago Railers Hockey series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
When her ex refuses to take the hint, Chey turns to Knox, thinking she’ll be safe halfway across the country. Despite his initial hesitation, Knox can’t resist the opportunity to protect her.
Yearning and angst galore! It’s clear Knox has been head over heels for Chey for years, but as a notorious playboy, he has no idea what to do with those feelings. Once she steps into his world, though, it becomes pretty obvious she’s exactly where she belongs - by his side, in his bed, and making a life of her own.
Not every book needs to ruin my morals. Every once in a while, I need something fluffy, swoony, and steamy without being outright spicy. This was the perfect palate cleanser - a little break from the dark, dirty, and depraved before I inevitably dive right back in.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult, Sports
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
Length: 📚📚📚
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 😩😊🫠🥰😍
Darkness: 🩶
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Fake Relationship, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Heroine in Danger
💫 Microtropes: He Falls First, Jersey Moment
🔆 Character: Athlete, Celebrity (Reality TV Star)
💋 Kinks: Finger Licking Good
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
🚩 Red Flags: Jealous/Possessive/Obsessive, Tracking/Spying (Consensual)
⛔️ Safety Squad: OM Drama (Crazy Ex), Stalking (Not by MMC)
📍 Setting: Chicago, Illinois 🇺🇸
📣 Type: Keep Me Close is part of the Chicago Railers Hockey series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
August 28, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 28, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’ve really been enjoying the Chicago Railers series by Jennifer Sucevic, so I was excited to get Cheyenne and Knox’s story in Keep Me Close. We’ve gotten to know Knox a little throughout the previous books, and I was curious to see how his relationship with Cheyenne would develop, especially with the fake-dating setup and the history between them.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
💋 Fake Dating
⚔️ Hate to Love
📺 Reality Star Heroine
😏 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Obsessed & Protective Hero
🚨 Heroine in Danger
🔒 Forced Proximity
🚫 Off Limits
🤫 Secret Pining
💘 He Falls First & Harder
Microtropes
📋 He Has Rules for Fake Dating
🥊 He Gets Into a Fight on the Ice When Another Player Runs His Mouth
🙅♂️ He Holds Back on Having Sex
👕 He Gives Her His Jersey to Wear to His Game
📍 He Tracks Her Location
🌟 He Believes in Her When She Doesn't Believe in Herself
One of my favorite things about Chey and Knox was how naturally their fake relationship turned into something real. Their chemistry was there from the beginning, but I especially liked watching them slowly get to know each other and realize that the other person wasn't quite who they'd initially assumed. Their connection never needed a dramatic third-act breakup to keep things interesting, and I appreciated that. Instead, the relationship developed naturally as they spent more time together, and I really enjoyed seeing those feelings become impossible for either of them to ignore.
Knox was such a sweetheart underneath his reformed-playboy reputation. 🥹 He was protective of Chey from the beginning, but what I loved most was how supportive he was. He genuinely believed in her and encouraged her to go after what she wanted, especially when she struggled to believe in herself. He didn't try to make her choices for her; he simply gave her the confidence to make them herself.
And I really loved Cheyenne's personal journey. I really enjoyed seeing her gain confidence throughout the book and start taking control of her own life. She had spent so much time doubting herself and allowing other people to influence her choices, so watching her become more secure in what she wanted was probably my favorite part of her character arc. Her growth felt especially satisfying because it wasn't just about her relationship with Knox, it was about figuring out who she wanted to be for herself.
One quote in particular really summed up that part of Chey's journey for me: “Getting the part isn’t the point. Going after it is. Doing something because you care about it, and taking the chance to make your dream a reality… that’s what matters.”
I also loved getting more of the Railers throughout the book. This group continues to be one of my favorite parts of the series. 🏒❤️ There's something so fun about seeing these characters continue to show up for each other, and by book five, getting to catch up with the couples from the previous books feels like spending time with old friends. The found-family aspect adds so much warmth to the series and makes each book feel connected beyond just the romance.
There were a few things I would have liked to see developed a little more, though.
The suspense involving Chey's ex was something I enjoyed, but I kept wishing the situation had been taken a little more seriously earlier on. The police weren't involved until the very end, when Chey finally got a restraining order, and while I was glad she took that step, I couldn't help thinking that it was something that should have happened sooner. I would have liked more tension surrounding that storyline and for the stakes to feel a little higher before everything was resolved.
I also wish we'd gotten more of Chey and Knox's history. Since secret pining is such a big part of their dynamic, I would have loved a prologue or some flashbacks showing when they first met and giving us more insight into how those feelings developed. We were told about that history, but actually seeing some of those moments would have made the years of hidden feelings feel even more convincing for me.
Another thing I was left wanting was more closure around Chey's family. Her relationship with her mom was clearly complicated, especially because her mother wants her to continue with the reality show while Chey dreams of being on Broadway. I really wanted to know whether they eventually manage to mend their relationship and whether her mom comes to understand and support what Chey actually wants for herself.
Overall, Keep Me Close was another enjoyable addition to the Chicago Railers series. I loved seeing Chey find her confidence, and Knox was such an easy hero to root for. Their relationship was sweet, sexy, and thankfully free of unnecessary drama, and I really enjoyed watching their fake relationship slowly become something genuine.
And now... Jax and Sloane!!! 👀 I've been waiting for these two since the very beginning, and now that their story is finally coming, I genuinely cannot wait. That little preview only made me MORE curious, and I am so ready for their book!
I’ve really been enjoying the Chicago Railers series by Jennifer Sucevic, so I was excited to get Cheyenne and Knox’s story in Keep Me Close. We’ve gotten to know Knox a little throughout the previous books, and I was curious to see how his relationship with Cheyenne would develop, especially with the fake-dating setup and the history between them.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
💋 Fake Dating
⚔️ Hate to Love
📺 Reality Star Heroine
😏 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Obsessed & Protective Hero
🚨 Heroine in Danger
🔒 Forced Proximity
🚫 Off Limits
🤫 Secret Pining
💘 He Falls First & Harder
Microtropes
📋 He Has Rules for Fake Dating
🥊 He Gets Into a Fight on the Ice When Another Player Runs His Mouth
🙅♂️ He Holds Back on Having Sex
👕 He Gives Her His Jersey to Wear to His Game
📍 He Tracks Her Location
🌟 He Believes in Her When She Doesn't Believe in Herself
One of my favorite things about Chey and Knox was how naturally their fake relationship turned into something real. Their chemistry was there from the beginning, but I especially liked watching them slowly get to know each other and realize that the other person wasn't quite who they'd initially assumed. Their connection never needed a dramatic third-act breakup to keep things interesting, and I appreciated that. Instead, the relationship developed naturally as they spent more time together, and I really enjoyed seeing those feelings become impossible for either of them to ignore.
Knox was such a sweetheart underneath his reformed-playboy reputation. 🥹 He was protective of Chey from the beginning, but what I loved most was how supportive he was. He genuinely believed in her and encouraged her to go after what she wanted, especially when she struggled to believe in herself. He didn't try to make her choices for her; he simply gave her the confidence to make them herself.
And I really loved Cheyenne's personal journey. I really enjoyed seeing her gain confidence throughout the book and start taking control of her own life. She had spent so much time doubting herself and allowing other people to influence her choices, so watching her become more secure in what she wanted was probably my favorite part of her character arc. Her growth felt especially satisfying because it wasn't just about her relationship with Knox, it was about figuring out who she wanted to be for herself.
One quote in particular really summed up that part of Chey's journey for me: “Getting the part isn’t the point. Going after it is. Doing something because you care about it, and taking the chance to make your dream a reality… that’s what matters.”
I also loved getting more of the Railers throughout the book. This group continues to be one of my favorite parts of the series. 🏒❤️ There's something so fun about seeing these characters continue to show up for each other, and by book five, getting to catch up with the couples from the previous books feels like spending time with old friends. The found-family aspect adds so much warmth to the series and makes each book feel connected beyond just the romance.
There were a few things I would have liked to see developed a little more, though.
The suspense involving Chey's ex was something I enjoyed, but I kept wishing the situation had been taken a little more seriously earlier on. The police weren't involved until the very end, when Chey finally got a restraining order, and while I was glad she took that step, I couldn't help thinking that it was something that should have happened sooner. I would have liked more tension surrounding that storyline and for the stakes to feel a little higher before everything was resolved.
I also wish we'd gotten more of Chey and Knox's history. Since secret pining is such a big part of their dynamic, I would have loved a prologue or some flashbacks showing when they first met and giving us more insight into how those feelings developed. We were told about that history, but actually seeing some of those moments would have made the years of hidden feelings feel even more convincing for me.
Another thing I was left wanting was more closure around Chey's family. Her relationship with her mom was clearly complicated, especially because her mother wants her to continue with the reality show while Chey dreams of being on Broadway. I really wanted to know whether they eventually manage to mend their relationship and whether her mom comes to understand and support what Chey actually wants for herself.
Overall, Keep Me Close was another enjoyable addition to the Chicago Railers series. I loved seeing Chey find her confidence, and Knox was such an easy hero to root for. Their relationship was sweet, sexy, and thankfully free of unnecessary drama, and I really enjoyed watching their fake relationship slowly become something genuine.
And now... Jax and Sloane!!! 👀 I've been waiting for these two since the very beginning, and now that their story is finally coming, I genuinely cannot wait. That little preview only made me MORE curious, and I am so ready for their book!
August 29, 2026
Knox and Cheyenne were two of the most perfectly compatible people who just created such an amazing couple. there was so much chemistry from the years of knowing one another through their siblings marriage, but also that little bit of gosh this person drives me insane. I loved that it ended up being it’s always been you. I loved these two. they were truly so sweet, their relationship never made the other question where they stood. I literally could feel their want and need for another another since chey showed up looking for a place to start over. the tension. the pining. it was all just perfect.
this audio was phenomenal, and CJ + Alex really brought Chey + Knox to life. I always feel more in tune with the story when the narrators give us emotional through their voice, and these two nailed that!
These Chicago Railers keep me on my toes, every single time. i’m not prepared to say goodbye after Give me tonight! Thank you Jennifer + Valentine PR for the alc + arc of keep me close!
this audio was phenomenal, and CJ + Alex really brought Chey + Knox to life. I always feel more in tune with the story when the narrators give us emotional through their voice, and these two nailed that!
These Chicago Railers keep me on my toes, every single time. i’m not prepared to say goodbye after Give me tonight! Thank you Jennifer + Valentine PR for the alc + arc of keep me close!
August 28, 2026
“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘺. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘴.”
4/⭐️
2/🌶️
Audiobook Review 🎧
Duet narration by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox
Knox and Cheyenne 🥹 omg I wasn’t prepared for this one to hit me so hard in the feels!! Knox was ALL in and I loved watching Cheyenne feel safe and loved by him! One of my favorite parts of a fake dating is when that moment hits of ‘this was never fake’ cause SWOON!!! And the mouth on Knox?! 🫠🫠
I absolutely love this friend group and seeing them all together! 👏🏼 this series is SO GOOD and if you’re a fan of OBSESSED men, then you need this one!!! These men are so down bad and it has me feral over them!
And another absolutely banger of an audio!! 👏🏼 CJ and Alex absolutely nailed this one! The banter, the emotions, all of it!! I had the best time doing an immersive read with this one and can’t recommend it enough!
🩵 what to expect -
Fake Dating
Hate To Love
Reality Star Herione
Obsessed & Protective Hero
Heroine in Danger
Forced Proximity
Off Limits
Secret Pining
He Falls First and Harder
4/⭐️
2/🌶️
Audiobook Review 🎧
Duet narration by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox
Knox and Cheyenne 🥹 omg I wasn’t prepared for this one to hit me so hard in the feels!! Knox was ALL in and I loved watching Cheyenne feel safe and loved by him! One of my favorite parts of a fake dating is when that moment hits of ‘this was never fake’ cause SWOON!!! And the mouth on Knox?! 🫠🫠
I absolutely love this friend group and seeing them all together! 👏🏼 this series is SO GOOD and if you’re a fan of OBSESSED men, then you need this one!!! These men are so down bad and it has me feral over them!
And another absolutely banger of an audio!! 👏🏼 CJ and Alex absolutely nailed this one! The banter, the emotions, all of it!! I had the best time doing an immersive read with this one and can’t recommend it enough!
🩵 what to expect -
Fake Dating
Hate To Love
Reality Star Herione
Obsessed & Protective Hero
Heroine in Danger
Forced Proximity
Off Limits
Secret Pining
He Falls First and Harder
Review of advance copy
Keep Me Close by Jennifer Sucevic
An overly persistent ex, an escape from her hometown, and a reality TV series have Cheyenne running straight into Knox’s arms for help.
Years of built-up tension and undeniable chemistry have them both questioning everything they thought they knew—and everything they could have together.
I LOVE when a fake-dating scenario turns spicy and, before you know it, very, very real.
This was the perfect mix of swoon, tension and chemistry.
An overly persistent ex, an escape from her hometown, and a reality TV series have Cheyenne running straight into Knox’s arms for help.
Years of built-up tension and undeniable chemistry have them both questioning everything they thought they knew—and everything they could have together.
I LOVE when a fake-dating scenario turns spicy and, before you know it, very, very real.
This was the perfect mix of swoon, tension and chemistry.
August 27, 2026
💕 FAKE DATING + HOCKEY HERO + HE FALLS FIRST = MY WEAKNESS 💕🏒
Keep Me Close by Jennifer Sucevic
Performed in duet by CJ Bloom & Alex Knox
Audiobook Review 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you love enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, off-limits tension, protective hockey heroes, and a man who falls first and falls HARD, then Keep Me Close needs a spot on your TBR immediately.
Knox and his love interest start out constantly at odds, but beneath all the bickering and chemistry is a hero who has been quietly gone for her all along.
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
The fake relationship quickly becomes something much deeper, and I was completely invested in every sweet, swoony, and emotional moment. The story features an NHL playboy hero, fake dating, family connections that keep them in each other’s orbit, and absolutely no third-act breakup.
The way Knox went from pretending to be her boyfriend to acting like she hung the moon had me absolutely hooked. 😍🏒
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕃𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟..🎧🎙️
The audiobook narration by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox brought these characters to life beautifully. Their performances captured the tension, humor, vulnerability, and growing romance perfectly. Every interaction crackled with chemistry, making it impossible to stop listening.
This audiobook was the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and swoon-worthiness.
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
Jennifer Sucevic delivered another addictive hockey romance filled with heart, humor, and all the protective hero vibes I adore. Knox McNichols is definitely book boyfriend material, and watching these two finally give in to their feelings was everything I wanted.
𝔾𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕄𝕖♡❀
🏒 Hockey Romance
💘 Enemies to Lovers
🎭 Fake Dating
🔥 He Falls First
🖤 Protective Hero
🚫 Off-Limits Romance
✨ Slow Burn Chemistry
💕 No Third-Act Breakup
A swoony, feel-good romance that left me smiling like a loon long after the final chapter.
𝙰 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 Valentine_pr 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚓𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚋𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠, 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜.
𝚄𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎💕𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
〰️🦋𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾𝒶ℛℯ𝒶𝒹𝓈🦋〰️
Always searching for my next unforgettable audiobook.” 🎧📚
Keep Me Close by Jennifer Sucevic
Performed in duet by CJ Bloom & Alex Knox
Audiobook Review 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you love enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, off-limits tension, protective hockey heroes, and a man who falls first and falls HARD, then Keep Me Close needs a spot on your TBR immediately.
Knox and his love interest start out constantly at odds, but beneath all the bickering and chemistry is a hero who has been quietly gone for her all along.
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
The fake relationship quickly becomes something much deeper, and I was completely invested in every sweet, swoony, and emotional moment. The story features an NHL playboy hero, fake dating, family connections that keep them in each other’s orbit, and absolutely no third-act breakup.
The way Knox went from pretending to be her boyfriend to acting like she hung the moon had me absolutely hooked. 😍🏒
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕃𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟..🎧🎙️
The audiobook narration by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox brought these characters to life beautifully. Their performances captured the tension, humor, vulnerability, and growing romance perfectly. Every interaction crackled with chemistry, making it impossible to stop listening.
This audiobook was the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and swoon-worthiness.
🩵❀🩶❀🤍❀🩵
Jennifer Sucevic delivered another addictive hockey romance filled with heart, humor, and all the protective hero vibes I adore. Knox McNichols is definitely book boyfriend material, and watching these two finally give in to their feelings was everything I wanted.
𝔾𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕄𝕖♡❀
🏒 Hockey Romance
💘 Enemies to Lovers
🎭 Fake Dating
🔥 He Falls First
🖤 Protective Hero
🚫 Off-Limits Romance
✨ Slow Burn Chemistry
💕 No Third-Act Breakup
A swoony, feel-good romance that left me smiling like a loon long after the final chapter.
𝙰 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 Valentine_pr 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚓𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚋𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠, 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜.
𝚄𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎💕𝙾𝚗𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚝 𝚊 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎
〰️🦋𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾𝒶ℛℯ𝒶𝒹𝓈🦋〰️
Always searching for my next unforgettable audiobook.” 🎧📚
August 28, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
A reality star running from a life she no longer wants and a psycho, stalker ex that won't leave her alone. Who better to help her than her sister's bother in law that just so happens to be a hot hockey player?! Fake dating sounds like a good idea but Knox has been into Cheyenne for years so maybe this relationship isn't so fake after all, even if she is off limits to him. He may never let women get close, but letting Cheyenne in was inevitable when she fits so seamlessly into his life.
All of my favorite tropes in one place - fake dating, mutual secret pining, protective MMC, AND he falls first😍 Say less because this one had everything I wanted and more. Pulling me in from the very first page, I couldn't put this one down!
🌶️🌶️
A reality star running from a life she no longer wants and a psycho, stalker ex that won't leave her alone. Who better to help her than her sister's bother in law that just so happens to be a hot hockey player?! Fake dating sounds like a good idea but Knox has been into Cheyenne for years so maybe this relationship isn't so fake after all, even if she is off limits to him. He may never let women get close, but letting Cheyenne in was inevitable when she fits so seamlessly into his life.
All of my favorite tropes in one place - fake dating, mutual secret pining, protective MMC, AND he falls first😍 Say less because this one had everything I wanted and more. Pulling me in from the very first page, I couldn't put this one down!
August 28, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Keep Me Close is the 5th book in the Chicago Railers Hockey series. I have been hooked to this series since I finally read Jennifer Sucevik for the first time last year. This one was a delight with the perfect golden retriever hero.
Knox has been pining after Cheyenne for a while since their siblings got married, but she never seemed interested which made her even more intriguing. Cheyenne shows up to his place with a fake dating proposition to get rid of her stalker ex-boyfriend. Knox doesn't want to do it at first because he knows he would just get hurt, but he cannot handle the idea of her fake dating anyone else. He moves her into his place once he realizes how dangerous her stalker is. Now, they are in a forced proximity and the attraction is too herd to fight.
Cheyenne has been forced into a reality show for her family for years, but she wants so much more. She wants to try auditioning for Broadway and Knox completely supports her and builds up her self-esteem through that process. It was great to see her finally stand up to her mother.
I loved these two together. The banter, longing, and support they provide each other was beautiful.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
🎤Duet narration by Alex Knox & CJ Bloom
This has duet narration by Alex Knox and CJ Bloom. Alex Knox was super swoony as Knox and he also brought the heat with the dirty talk. CJ Bloom is always fantastic. This was a great listen and I highly recommend the audio.
Thank you to Must Love Audio for providing the ALC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Keep Me Close is the 5th book in the Chicago Railers Hockey series. I have been hooked to this series since I finally read Jennifer Sucevik for the first time last year. This one was a delight with the perfect golden retriever hero.
Knox has been pining after Cheyenne for a while since their siblings got married, but she never seemed interested which made her even more intriguing. Cheyenne shows up to his place with a fake dating proposition to get rid of her stalker ex-boyfriend. Knox doesn't want to do it at first because he knows he would just get hurt, but he cannot handle the idea of her fake dating anyone else. He moves her into his place once he realizes how dangerous her stalker is. Now, they are in a forced proximity and the attraction is too herd to fight.
Cheyenne has been forced into a reality show for her family for years, but she wants so much more. She wants to try auditioning for Broadway and Knox completely supports her and builds up her self-esteem through that process. It was great to see her finally stand up to her mother.
I loved these two together. The banter, longing, and support they provide each other was beautiful.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
🎤Duet narration by Alex Knox & CJ Bloom
This has duet narration by Alex Knox and CJ Bloom. Alex Knox was super swoony as Knox and he also brought the heat with the dirty talk. CJ Bloom is always fantastic. This was a great listen and I highly recommend the audio.
Thank you to Must Love Audio for providing the ALC.
August 24, 2026
I devoured this book in less than twenty four hours because it is just SO DAMN GOOD. I love a hockey romance where everyone thinks he’s a playboy but he’s actually not and has been pining over one girl for years (I know it’s cliche but freaking sue me it’s amazing), and Knox is devotion at it’s finest. This book had me in my feelings because the way they support each other and of how healthy their relationship is. I love a fake dating but gosh Knox was down bad from the start and tried so hard to hide it, it’s adorable. And the way they both let each other see very vulnerable parts of themselves was so beautiful and damn healthy. Like can I emphasise how amazingly healthy their relationship is because they communicate and have this easy banter even after they’re officially together. But the thing that got me the most was who Knox believed in Chey when almost no one else did and even though he calls her “Hollywood” jokingly as a nickname he sees her as so much more than that. This guy literally orbits Chey and she deserved that and more. I just can’t get over how amazing this book is and how all those little details add up to something huge and meaningful. I give this a 4.5/5
August 30, 2026
This series is getting better as it goes along. Cheyenne comes to Knox for help with her ex who is proving to be a real problem. Knox agrees to the proposed fake relationship but on his terms. There is so much delicious tension between these two as from the dual POV we get to know that they are both struggling to keep feelings under wraps and their hands off each other. The PDA that they indulge in for show is more real than either of them will admit.
“Chicago was supposed to be temporary. A place to disappear and lie low while I figured out whether a different future might exist for me, even if it never felt entirely realistic.
And this relationship with Knox McNichols was supposed to be fake,
A temporary solution to solve a problem.”
“…standing here now, surrounded by something that feels far too close to belonging, I can’t help but wonder…
What if it became the place I stayed?”
I loved that Knox is low level obsessed with Chey and very protective moving her into his home almost immediately and getting into brawls on the ice when the opposition chirps about her; and I loved that he sees her and not the reality star and is so supportive and encouraging of her dreams.
The journey of their relationship from enemies to lovers made for great reading. We also get plenty of drama surrounding the ex, as well as lots of Railers and their women, who are all so warm and welcoming towards Cheyenne.
I enjoyed this a lot! Chapter 41 made me smile so hard 😊
I’m very into the Evelyne and Hugh saga and as a bonus we get some choice insight into their past… we need more of this!!
“Chicago was supposed to be temporary. A place to disappear and lie low while I figured out whether a different future might exist for me, even if it never felt entirely realistic.
And this relationship with Knox McNichols was supposed to be fake,
A temporary solution to solve a problem.”
“…standing here now, surrounded by something that feels far too close to belonging, I can’t help but wonder…
What if it became the place I stayed?”
I loved that Knox is low level obsessed with Chey and very protective moving her into his home almost immediately and getting into brawls on the ice when the opposition chirps about her; and I loved that he sees her and not the reality star and is so supportive and encouraging of her dreams.
The journey of their relationship from enemies to lovers made for great reading. We also get plenty of drama surrounding the ex, as well as lots of Railers and their women, who are all so warm and welcoming towards Cheyenne.
I enjoyed this a lot! Chapter 41 made me smile so hard 😊
I’m very into the Evelyne and Hugh saga and as a bonus we get some choice insight into their past… we need more of this!!
August 20, 2026
✨ALC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review✨
Keep Me Close is a sweet fake relationship, forbidden romance type story between a reality star and her sister’s brother in law who’s always been secretly in love with her 🥰 When Cheyenne has an obsessed ex-boyfriend who doesn’t believe their relationship is over, she decides a fake relationship with her sister’s brother in law hockey player Knox will do the trick. Knowing it will probably be a bad idea since he’s had feeling for Cheyenne for years, Knox decides to help her out anyway to protect her from her stalker ex. But of course fake feelings become real and that’s when the story always gets good 🔥
Unlike the other books in this series, this one seemed short to me for some reason. Though the relationship was fake, they became real super quick! I did love the supportive relationship they had though, and Knox was the protective alpha boyfriend everyone loves to read about 🥰 And I always love the cameos from past characters in the series showing up for their fellow team mates ❤️
The audiobook was duet narrated by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox who were both amazing at nailing their characters personalities! This book was a little predictable compared to the other books in this series, but it was still a fun listen! I give it 3.5 stars and recommend checking it out ❤️
Keep Me Close is a sweet fake relationship, forbidden romance type story between a reality star and her sister’s brother in law who’s always been secretly in love with her 🥰 When Cheyenne has an obsessed ex-boyfriend who doesn’t believe their relationship is over, she decides a fake relationship with her sister’s brother in law hockey player Knox will do the trick. Knowing it will probably be a bad idea since he’s had feeling for Cheyenne for years, Knox decides to help her out anyway to protect her from her stalker ex. But of course fake feelings become real and that’s when the story always gets good 🔥
Unlike the other books in this series, this one seemed short to me for some reason. Though the relationship was fake, they became real super quick! I did love the supportive relationship they had though, and Knox was the protective alpha boyfriend everyone loves to read about 🥰 And I always love the cameos from past characters in the series showing up for their fellow team mates ❤️
The audiobook was duet narrated by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox who were both amazing at nailing their characters personalities! This book was a little predictable compared to the other books in this series, but it was still a fun listen! I give it 3.5 stars and recommend checking it out ❤️
August 30, 2026
arc review | 5⭐️ 2-3🌶️
🎧 duet narration: cj bloom & alex knox
🏒 hockey romance
🎬 fake dating
🏒 heroine in danger
🎬 forced proximity
🏒 off limits
🎬 secret pining
🏒 protective mmc
jennifer has done it again and given us another down bad hockey player who is obsessed and possessive of his girl and I AM HER FOR IT!!!
i absolutely loved knox & cheyenne’s story with the off limits fake dating, the secret pining he’s had for her for years, the little suspense thrown in their because of her ex, and the way knox was able to support her dreams when she didn’t think it could happen…SO STINKIN GOOD!!!!
i am truly obsessed with this series and all of the characters from it and i CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series 😍
also read this one as an immersive read and the narrators absolutely killed it with these characters and their story, 10/10 recommendation!!!
𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘳
🎧 duet narration: cj bloom & alex knox
🏒 hockey romance
🎬 fake dating
🏒 heroine in danger
🎬 forced proximity
🏒 off limits
🎬 secret pining
🏒 protective mmc
jennifer has done it again and given us another down bad hockey player who is obsessed and possessive of his girl and I AM HER FOR IT!!!
i absolutely loved knox & cheyenne’s story with the off limits fake dating, the secret pining he’s had for her for years, the little suspense thrown in their because of her ex, and the way knox was able to support her dreams when she didn’t think it could happen…SO STINKIN GOOD!!!!
i am truly obsessed with this series and all of the characters from it and i CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series 😍
also read this one as an immersive read and the narrators absolutely killed it with these characters and their story, 10/10 recommendation!!!
𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘳
August 27, 2026
I loved this book. Knox and Cheyenne were so good together. I loved how protective he was of her. Dakota was definitely unhinged and violent. I loved the chemistry between them and how he secretly wanted her the whole time he'd known her. The piano scene was cute, I loved what she thought about him playing. I liked that she saw a different side to him and realized there was more to him than she thought. I loved how he supported her and cheered her on.
A few of my favorite quotes:
✨“𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝘂𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴."
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩?”
“𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝙢𝙮 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗻𝗼𝘄.”
✨“𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲. 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆. 𝗠𝗲.”
✨“𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗰. 𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗜 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵. 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲.”
✨“𝗚𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁. 𝗚𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀. 𝗗𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆… 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀.”
A few of my favorite quotes:
✨“𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝘂𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴."
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩?”
“𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝙢𝙮 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗻𝗼𝘄.”
✨“𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲. 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆. 𝗠𝗲.”
✨“𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗰. 𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗜 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵. 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲.”
✨“𝗚𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁. 𝗚𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀. 𝗗𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆… 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀.”
August 17, 2026
5⭐️
I’ve been waiting for this book since the moment I finished Kai and Laiken’s book, and I loved it! I loved every second of this book and I already want to read it again, oh god, Knox is one of the most perfect men I’ve ever read 😩❤️ he was yearning for Cheyenne for years, YEARS!!! And when she asked for his help, I mean yeah he hesitated, but then when she told him she would ask someone else to be her fake boyfriend, he knew that was his chance to gain her heart, even when he didn’t wanted to acknowledge that 🙊 and the second he made his mind, there was nothing in his way to make her happy and to love her and most important to keep her safe🙊
Because yeah, there was an ex involved and oh god, that was so unhinged 👀 and I was glad that Knox was there to keep her safe 🙈
And Cheyenne, my girl I loved her, I hurt for her every time she remembered her childhood and how much it means to her to have true friends and true love and support, it was so beautiful to read her making friends with all the girls and to realized how worthy she is, how lovable and talented and amazing, and how brave! I mean, she wanted to be exposed 24/7 and she found her true passion and fought for that, and Knox was right there to love her and support her every step of the way ❤️
Now, as all the girls, I’m invested in Hugh and Evelyn’s banter; and I NEED THEIR BOOK!!! I need it pretty please 😩🛐 and with all the things I learned about them in those little glimpses now I’m more intrigued and I need answers!! 😩❤️
And also, I can’t wait to read Sloane and Jax’s book🙂↕️✨ I also need that book pretty please ❤️
I’ve been waiting for this book since the moment I finished Kai and Laiken’s book, and I loved it! I loved every second of this book and I already want to read it again, oh god, Knox is one of the most perfect men I’ve ever read 😩❤️ he was yearning for Cheyenne for years, YEARS!!! And when she asked for his help, I mean yeah he hesitated, but then when she told him she would ask someone else to be her fake boyfriend, he knew that was his chance to gain her heart, even when he didn’t wanted to acknowledge that 🙊 and the second he made his mind, there was nothing in his way to make her happy and to love her and most important to keep her safe🙊
Because yeah, there was an ex involved and oh god, that was so unhinged 👀 and I was glad that Knox was there to keep her safe 🙈
And Cheyenne, my girl I loved her, I hurt for her every time she remembered her childhood and how much it means to her to have true friends and true love and support, it was so beautiful to read her making friends with all the girls and to realized how worthy she is, how lovable and talented and amazing, and how brave! I mean, she wanted to be exposed 24/7 and she found her true passion and fought for that, and Knox was right there to love her and support her every step of the way ❤️
Now, as all the girls, I’m invested in Hugh and Evelyn’s banter; and I NEED THEIR BOOK!!! I need it pretty please 😩🛐 and with all the things I learned about them in those little glimpses now I’m more intrigued and I need answers!! 😩❤️
And also, I can’t wait to read Sloane and Jax’s book🙂↕️✨ I also need that book pretty please ❤️
August 30, 2026
I ate up this romance. I don’t know what Jennifer Sucevic puts in her hockey romances, but they are wildly delicious every time. Fast-paced & romantic with snappy banter & chemistry for days, I loved Knox & Cheyenne.
Knox was so much more sensitive than I was expecting & his piano playing pushed him right over the edge. He was protective & completely down bad, but there was an element of vulnerability in Knox’s character that made him irresistible. Don’t even get me started on the piano scene. Sheesh.
Cheyenne was direct but also wounded & I loved how Knox both comforted & reassured her. Her sta1k3r ex-boyfriend added the perfect amount of danger & intensity to Knox & Cheyenne’s relationship. The running scene & the car scene were perfect for completely different reasons but I loved the openness she showed, along with the different sides to her personality. I wasn’t sure I could relate to a reality star heroine but I absolutely did.
And the narration? Good grief. Both narrators were amazing & Alex Knox is now one of my new favorite male voices. They were each other’s perfect vocal fouls & there was never a moment when I was pulled out of the story.
If you love fake dating, men who pine & will protect with their lives, & heroines who don’t back down, you will love this hockey romance. 5 stars. 3 peppers.
Knox was so much more sensitive than I was expecting & his piano playing pushed him right over the edge. He was protective & completely down bad, but there was an element of vulnerability in Knox’s character that made him irresistible. Don’t even get me started on the piano scene. Sheesh.
Cheyenne was direct but also wounded & I loved how Knox both comforted & reassured her. Her sta1k3r ex-boyfriend added the perfect amount of danger & intensity to Knox & Cheyenne’s relationship. The running scene & the car scene were perfect for completely different reasons but I loved the openness she showed, along with the different sides to her personality. I wasn’t sure I could relate to a reality star heroine but I absolutely did.
And the narration? Good grief. Both narrators were amazing & Alex Knox is now one of my new favorite male voices. They were each other’s perfect vocal fouls & there was never a moment when I was pulled out of the story.
If you love fake dating, men who pine & will protect with their lives, & heroines who don’t back down, you will love this hockey romance. 5 stars. 3 peppers.
August 29, 2026
Knox McNichols, sir… I have questions. 😂
I loved the enemies-to-lovers tension between Knox and Chey! The fake dating setup, all the unresolved chemistry, and Knox’s whole “I’ve secretly been obsessed with you forever” vibe had me eating this book UP.
Knox is cocky, possessive, protective, and completely gone for Chey—and watching that playboy façade crack was EVERYTHING.
The banter was fun, the spice was hot, and the chemistry was undeniable. Add in hockey, forced proximity, and a man who will absolutely go feral when it comes to his woman? Yep. I’m sold.
Definitely a fun addition to the Chicago Railers series!
I loved the enemies-to-lovers tension between Knox and Chey! The fake dating setup, all the unresolved chemistry, and Knox’s whole “I’ve secretly been obsessed with you forever” vibe had me eating this book UP.
Knox is cocky, possessive, protective, and completely gone for Chey—and watching that playboy façade crack was EVERYTHING.
The banter was fun, the spice was hot, and the chemistry was undeniable. Add in hockey, forced proximity, and a man who will absolutely go feral when it comes to his woman? Yep. I’m sold.
Definitely a fun addition to the Chicago Railers series!
August 28, 2026
This was so freaking good! This series just keeps getting better and better! Thank you to @valentine_pr_ for the eARC. I love this freaking series! Chicago Railers - it's hockey but there is so much more that goes on with these men! Enter Knock and Cheyenne - fake dating, a stalker, forced proximity, and so many stolen glances and hot looks that I was begging them to just kiss already! That bathtub scene! Phew! And I just love how Knox lets himself fall and falls first and hard. I love a piano scene and add in her wearing his jersey - ok - yes Please! I'm dying for more Hugh and Evelyn - gah! such teasing in each of these books. Can't wait for the next installment.
August 27, 2026
This was another hockey one that grabbed my attention rather quickly. It was a very fast paced fake to insta relationship really early on. There wasn't as much yearning before they found themselves fully invested in each other and I felt like I would have liked a little more holding back before jumping all in. The narrators really did an awesome job on the audio for this one and I loved the opportunity to listen for another ALC from Jennifer Sucevic.
August 27, 2026
Another book from this series that I was hooked from the first page. This series is so addicting. I have read everyone book in one sitting.
I love getting Cheyenne and Knox’s story. Cheyenne leaving her life behind in L.A and her unhinged boyfriend. To her ending up at Knox’s door with a proposition of Fake Dating.
I loved everything about this story.
Thank you Valentine PR and Jennifer for the advance copy
I love getting Cheyenne and Knox’s story. Cheyenne leaving her life behind in L.A and her unhinged boyfriend. To her ending up at Knox’s door with a proposition of Fake Dating.
I loved everything about this story.
Thank you Valentine PR and Jennifer for the advance copy
August 27, 2026
I loved every minute of the fake to real love journey between Knox and Cheyenne. Knox has always had a thing for her and when she flees to him for safety he sets out to give her so much more. Their chemistry and banter were perfection. Watching Cheyenne bloom and grow into herself because of Knox’s care made the story even better. As always, this author gave me a wonderful story to fix my romance needs! I received a complimentary review copy, my opinions are my own and given voluntarily. Can’t wait for more in this series!
August 28, 2026
4.5 "Are you finally done pretending?" stars ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC received from Jennifer Sucevic in exchange for honest review.
⚡BLURB⚡
Knox McNichols and I have one thing in common—we can't stand each other.
He's the NHL playboy who enjoys getting under my skin, and thanks to the marriage between our siblings, avoiding him isn't an option.
When my ex refuses to take no for an answer, I show up at Knox's penthouse with a desperate proposal—pretend to be my boyfriend.
The plan is simple: convince my ex I've moved on.
Except Knox has a few rules...
Rule #1: No flirting with anyone but him.
Rule #2: If my ex contacts me, I tell him immediately.
Rule #3: My location stays on at all times.
His rules should send me running.
Instead, they make me wonder if the man I've spent years fighting with is hiding something entirely different beneath his easy smiles and reputation as hockey's favorite playboy.
The more time we spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the sparks between us—or Knox’s determination to protect me at all costs.
When pretending starts to feel a little too real, I realize there might be something far more dangerous than my ex refusing to let me go.
It's discovering that the man I've spent years fighting with just might be the one I can't live without.
⚡REVIEW⚡
Jennifer Sucevic has not put a foot wrong so far with her Chicago Railers series, so I was super hyped for Keep Me Close. Ho boy. She shoots, she scores (again!).
Jennifer has been firmly in her Golden Retriever era with this series, and whilst Knox has a slightly darker coat, the essence is still there. When Cheyenne Benson, his brother's S-I-L, turns up at his penthouse requesting a fake dating arrangement, his mind explodes a bit. Because he's been crushing on her forever, despite how much they bait each other up. He genuinely doesn't understand why she's chosen him for this fake relationship, but he throws himself in with gusto, even without knowing the full gory details about her ex. The rules he throws in... Super possessive. So much so, you wonder whether he is going to be too strong a character in his idolisation of his woman. But Jennifer knew exactly what she was doing, and once things are acknowledged as real, he is all about empowering Cheyenne and freeing her from the trappings of her life until the point she fled to him. His self control is incredibly impressive, particularly because he gauges what she needs from him at all times, disregarding what he might want. Her safety and wellbeing is paramount, at all times. It is not lightly that I say, Knox McNichols has eclipsed Steele as my favourite Chicago Railer (ahem!).
Cheyenne Benson has very much escaped a cage when she arrives at Knox's penthouse. Having lived almost her entire life in front of the cameras on a reality show, she has fled, knowing that the messy breakup will be made part of the show, and that her ex's behaviour is terrifying her - any show exposure would give him too much access to her. So she's turned to the man who she trades sharp barbs with, but has secretly found interesting in all the time they've known each other. Knowing her only other option is to go back to LA, she agrees to Knox's possessive terms, never dreaming that things could develop between them. As her ex's behaviour becomes more deranged, it is Knox who steps in and not only protects her from that, but also sees that she needs to breathe away from the reality show staged lifestyle. As he shows her a life away from cameras and directors ruling her every movement, Cheyenne begins to flourish. Her friendship with the other Railers WAGS is genuine and something she has never had before. He may call her Hollywood, but inside, Cheyenne craves normality, makeup-free runs, run of the mill date days and a life that is truly her own.
The romance between these two characters was so beautifully curated. What began with a desperate plea sees Knox getting to the heart of Cheyenne's real desires from life, and she fulfils his need for genuine connection and partnership. They go through the trauma of a spurned ex together, before discovering that what was meant to be fake was actually the start of something perfect. This was not the spiciest of the series, but I loved that it was genuine and unapologetically authentic when it came to their connection. It is my favourite romance of the series so far too.
Of course, the Evelyn and Hugh subplot was woven throughout this novel as it was with the others, and there is a moment that will absolutely take your breath away. My lips are sealed but tears tracked down my face! I am itching to see what comes next! And I'd love to know if we're going to get a full novel devoted to those two. The epilogues also gave us some insight into the next couple to get the Chicago Railers treatment - Jax and Sloane. I'm already utterly invested. I think they have the potential to have the most devastating story so far (even more so than Kia and Laiken!).
Keep Me Close is undoubtedly my favourite Jennifer Sucevic novel, ever. It feels like there is such a deep understanding of each other by the lead characters, and they know exactly what the other needs from them at all times, which means they bring out the very best in each other. I'm a sucker for a fake dating trope, and this one was close to perfection in its execution. I adored the characters, I adored the romance, the spice was so beautiful in it's authenticity, and as always, the supporting cast were *chef's kiss*. It was an absolute joy reading this novel - Jennifer is at her very best, and I truly struggle to see how she can top this. But I wait in utter anticipation to see her try!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
⚡BLURB⚡
Knox McNichols and I have one thing in common—we can't stand each other.
He's the NHL playboy who enjoys getting under my skin, and thanks to the marriage between our siblings, avoiding him isn't an option.
When my ex refuses to take no for an answer, I show up at Knox's penthouse with a desperate proposal—pretend to be my boyfriend.
The plan is simple: convince my ex I've moved on.
Except Knox has a few rules...
Rule #1: No flirting with anyone but him.
Rule #2: If my ex contacts me, I tell him immediately.
Rule #3: My location stays on at all times.
His rules should send me running.
Instead, they make me wonder if the man I've spent years fighting with is hiding something entirely different beneath his easy smiles and reputation as hockey's favorite playboy.
The more time we spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the sparks between us—or Knox’s determination to protect me at all costs.
When pretending starts to feel a little too real, I realize there might be something far more dangerous than my ex refusing to let me go.
It's discovering that the man I've spent years fighting with just might be the one I can't live without.
⚡REVIEW⚡
Jennifer Sucevic has not put a foot wrong so far with her Chicago Railers series, so I was super hyped for Keep Me Close. Ho boy. She shoots, she scores (again!).
Jennifer has been firmly in her Golden Retriever era with this series, and whilst Knox has a slightly darker coat, the essence is still there. When Cheyenne Benson, his brother's S-I-L, turns up at his penthouse requesting a fake dating arrangement, his mind explodes a bit. Because he's been crushing on her forever, despite how much they bait each other up. He genuinely doesn't understand why she's chosen him for this fake relationship, but he throws himself in with gusto, even without knowing the full gory details about her ex. The rules he throws in... Super possessive. So much so, you wonder whether he is going to be too strong a character in his idolisation of his woman. But Jennifer knew exactly what she was doing, and once things are acknowledged as real, he is all about empowering Cheyenne and freeing her from the trappings of her life until the point she fled to him. His self control is incredibly impressive, particularly because he gauges what she needs from him at all times, disregarding what he might want. Her safety and wellbeing is paramount, at all times. It is not lightly that I say, Knox McNichols has eclipsed Steele as my favourite Chicago Railer (ahem!).
Cheyenne Benson has very much escaped a cage when she arrives at Knox's penthouse. Having lived almost her entire life in front of the cameras on a reality show, she has fled, knowing that the messy breakup will be made part of the show, and that her ex's behaviour is terrifying her - any show exposure would give him too much access to her. So she's turned to the man who she trades sharp barbs with, but has secretly found interesting in all the time they've known each other. Knowing her only other option is to go back to LA, she agrees to Knox's possessive terms, never dreaming that things could develop between them. As her ex's behaviour becomes more deranged, it is Knox who steps in and not only protects her from that, but also sees that she needs to breathe away from the reality show staged lifestyle. As he shows her a life away from cameras and directors ruling her every movement, Cheyenne begins to flourish. Her friendship with the other Railers WAGS is genuine and something she has never had before. He may call her Hollywood, but inside, Cheyenne craves normality, makeup-free runs, run of the mill date days and a life that is truly her own.
The romance between these two characters was so beautifully curated. What began with a desperate plea sees Knox getting to the heart of Cheyenne's real desires from life, and she fulfils his need for genuine connection and partnership. They go through the trauma of a spurned ex together, before discovering that what was meant to be fake was actually the start of something perfect. This was not the spiciest of the series, but I loved that it was genuine and unapologetically authentic when it came to their connection. It is my favourite romance of the series so far too.
Of course, the Evelyn and Hugh subplot was woven throughout this novel as it was with the others, and there is a moment that will absolutely take your breath away. My lips are sealed but tears tracked down my face! I am itching to see what comes next! And I'd love to know if we're going to get a full novel devoted to those two. The epilogues also gave us some insight into the next couple to get the Chicago Railers treatment - Jax and Sloane. I'm already utterly invested. I think they have the potential to have the most devastating story so far (even more so than Kia and Laiken!).
Keep Me Close is undoubtedly my favourite Jennifer Sucevic novel, ever. It feels like there is such a deep understanding of each other by the lead characters, and they know exactly what the other needs from them at all times, which means they bring out the very best in each other. I'm a sucker for a fake dating trope, and this one was close to perfection in its execution. I adored the characters, I adored the romance, the spice was so beautiful in it's authenticity, and as always, the supporting cast were *chef's kiss*. It was an absolute joy reading this novel - Jennifer is at her very best, and I truly struggle to see how she can top this. But I wait in utter anticipation to see her try!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Keep Me Close is my first from Jennifer Sucevic and it will definitely NOT be my last! I'm not sure how I missed reading this talented wordsmith's work, but this book had me turning the pages as fast as I could to find out how Chicago hockey star Knox McNichols and the woman he has pined for, reality star Cheyenne Benson, would finally get together. Oh my goodness, these two! Chemistry for days and their fake boyfriend/girlfriend scenario in order to convince Chey's crazy ex to back off, only led to increased want and I was there for every spark-inducing moment.
Knox and Chey have always been in each other's lives since his brother and her sister were married with kids. But I found it very sweet that both acted uninterested whenever they were in the same proximity, yet were wildly attracted to the other nonetheless. When Knox agrees to help Chey out, I knew it was only a matter of time, especially when they agree to live under the same roof, that their mutual desire would eventually win out and lines would be spectacularly crossed and real love would eventually win out. It's always fun to be proven right but damn, the slow-burn journey these two embark upon had me sweating and squirming as they took their time to finally reveal their true feelings to one another.
Sucevic does a fabulous job in how much Knox respected Chey and only wanted what was best for her psyche, her career and her future. He is so supportive of her ongoing need to rid herself of her family's reality show and make a life for herself, no matter what that might look like. Her knight in hockey skates is a dream and I just adored him and how much he cared for his Chey. Despite him coming from hockey royalty, he's grounded and caring for those in his life, both on and off the rink.
Although it takes Chey a bit longer to come out of her shell, so to speak, and finally grab onto what she wants next in her life, I felt as if her own personal journey was paced perfectly, in line with what was happening with Knox. I loved for her that Knox's tight circle of friends and family take her in easily, making her one of the crew almost immediately upon meeting. Her life as a reality star had been taxing and I could tell it had run its course. As did Knox and his patience in allowing Chey to find the strength to confront her momager and the life she wanted to leave behind in California only endeared himself to her and to this smitten reader that much more.
Chey's ex takes one too many opportunities to confront her and the way Knox protects what he hopes is his forever made me swoon. He's never over the top with his actions, but puts his size, his deep voice and his fists into use when necessary. A gentle giant you don't not want to mess with.
I think what I loved most was that both Chey and Knox saw in the other what they perhaps both had simply taken for granted. That being a good person may just be something as natural as breathing but for each of them, when it came to each other's needs and wants, they had their own kind of rhythm that was uniquely theirs. I mean, talk about meant to be: these two are the very definition.
There is plenty of steam that is both beautiful and naughty af. Let's just say a piano bench is the scene of both comfort and desire and each scene involving this usually mundane piece of furniture is made into something that will forever mean so much more to our couple.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the side relationship that has the women of this book all excited and interested and had me quite curious as well. Sucevic gives us a taste of what Hugh and Evelyn have gone through and as someone who has not read the prior books in this series, trust me when I say that I am all kinds of curious if this plays out in each of the storylines. With the few late chapters in their points of view has me wanting a full book of their past and current tortured feelings. These two owners of the Chicago Railers add just the right touch of additional angst in an otherwise excellent book.
Ok, since I'm firmly a fan of this wonderful book that features two extremely likable and endearing characters, I will for sure go back and start at the beginning since meeting all of the other Railers family members have me intrigued as to their own love stories. Jennifer Sucevic writes from the heart, gives her characters real emotion and gives her readers all the feels and so much more. I don't know about you, but you can't get much better than that, especially from this rabid reader who took a chance on a new-to-me author, hopeful it would be a great experience. Giving Keep Me Close a huge 5 stars proves I made the right decision.
Knox and Chey have always been in each other's lives since his brother and her sister were married with kids. But I found it very sweet that both acted uninterested whenever they were in the same proximity, yet were wildly attracted to the other nonetheless. When Knox agrees to help Chey out, I knew it was only a matter of time, especially when they agree to live under the same roof, that their mutual desire would eventually win out and lines would be spectacularly crossed and real love would eventually win out. It's always fun to be proven right but damn, the slow-burn journey these two embark upon had me sweating and squirming as they took their time to finally reveal their true feelings to one another.
Sucevic does a fabulous job in how much Knox respected Chey and only wanted what was best for her psyche, her career and her future. He is so supportive of her ongoing need to rid herself of her family's reality show and make a life for herself, no matter what that might look like. Her knight in hockey skates is a dream and I just adored him and how much he cared for his Chey. Despite him coming from hockey royalty, he's grounded and caring for those in his life, both on and off the rink.
Although it takes Chey a bit longer to come out of her shell, so to speak, and finally grab onto what she wants next in her life, I felt as if her own personal journey was paced perfectly, in line with what was happening with Knox. I loved for her that Knox's tight circle of friends and family take her in easily, making her one of the crew almost immediately upon meeting. Her life as a reality star had been taxing and I could tell it had run its course. As did Knox and his patience in allowing Chey to find the strength to confront her momager and the life she wanted to leave behind in California only endeared himself to her and to this smitten reader that much more.
Chey's ex takes one too many opportunities to confront her and the way Knox protects what he hopes is his forever made me swoon. He's never over the top with his actions, but puts his size, his deep voice and his fists into use when necessary. A gentle giant you don't not want to mess with.
I think what I loved most was that both Chey and Knox saw in the other what they perhaps both had simply taken for granted. That being a good person may just be something as natural as breathing but for each of them, when it came to each other's needs and wants, they had their own kind of rhythm that was uniquely theirs. I mean, talk about meant to be: these two are the very definition.
There is plenty of steam that is both beautiful and naughty af. Let's just say a piano bench is the scene of both comfort and desire and each scene involving this usually mundane piece of furniture is made into something that will forever mean so much more to our couple.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the side relationship that has the women of this book all excited and interested and had me quite curious as well. Sucevic gives us a taste of what Hugh and Evelyn have gone through and as someone who has not read the prior books in this series, trust me when I say that I am all kinds of curious if this plays out in each of the storylines. With the few late chapters in their points of view has me wanting a full book of their past and current tortured feelings. These two owners of the Chicago Railers add just the right touch of additional angst in an otherwise excellent book.
Ok, since I'm firmly a fan of this wonderful book that features two extremely likable and endearing characters, I will for sure go back and start at the beginning since meeting all of the other Railers family members have me intrigued as to their own love stories. Jennifer Sucevic writes from the heart, gives her characters real emotion and gives her readers all the feels and so much more. I don't know about you, but you can't get much better than that, especially from this rabid reader who took a chance on a new-to-me author, hopeful it would be a great experience. Giving Keep Me Close a huge 5 stars proves I made the right decision.
August 19, 2026
🏒💙 Enemies to lovers, fake dating, secret pining, and a hockey hero who has been down bad for years. 💙🏒
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (2/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Series: Chicago Railers Hockey, Book 5 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
After Promise Me This, I was excited to jump back into the Chicago Railers world, and Keep Me Close was such a fun change of pace.
Jennifer Sucevic once again delivers an addictive hockey romance, but this one leans much more into banter, chemistry, fake dating, and swoony romance than the emotional heaviness of the previous book.
And honestly? I had a great time with it.
The pacing worked really well for me. The story moves along quickly without feeling like it is rushing through the romance, and there was always enough happening to keep me invested. I especially enjoyed how naturally the tension between Knox and Chey developed. Their chemistry, teasing, and general inability to leave each other alone made their relationship incredibly entertaining to follow.
Knox was probably my favorite part of this book.
Give me a hero who looks like a cocky hockey playboy on the outside but is actually completely gone for his woman, and I am sold. The secret pining, protective behavior, and the fact that he clearly falls harder than he ever intended made him ridiculously easy to love.
The fake-dating trope was also done really well here. It gives them plenty of forced proximity and opportunities for the chemistry to build without the romance feeling artificially dragged out. There is a lovely balance between the playful moments and the more emotional ones, and I really liked seeing Knox's softer side come through underneath all that confidence.
Compared to Promise Me This, this one definitely feels lighter and more playful. The spice level is also fairly low, but the chemistry is still strong enough that I never felt like the romance was missing anything.
One thing I particularly love about this series is that the previous couples continue to feel like part of the bigger Chicago Railers universe. Evelyn and Hugh's storyline continues to develop in the background, and there is one particular moment involving them that absolutely destroyed me.
I am saying nothing more.
And then those epilogues gave us a little taste of Jax and Sloane, and I am already invested. I have a feeling their story could be one of the most emotionally brutal ones in the series so far, and naturally, I am already impatient for it.
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox, and they were fantastic together.
CJ Bloom captured Chey's personality really well, especially her frustration, vulnerability, and the gradual shift in her feelings toward Knox.
Alex Knox was absolutely perfect for Knox. He brought the cocky, teasing hockey-player energy, but also managed to switch effortlessly into the protective and more emotional side of his character.
Their performances added a lot to the banter and chemistry, and the duet format worked beautifully for this story.
What I Loved
✔️ Fun enemies-to-lovers dynamic
✔️ Fake dating
✔️ Secret pining
✔️ Hero falls first and harder
✔️ Completely obsessed/protective MMC
✔️ Great banter
✔️ Strong chemistry
✔️ Easy, addictive pacing
✔️ Continued storylines from previous books
✔️ No unnecessary third-act breakup
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Hockey Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Fake Dating
✔️ Secret Pining
✔️ Off-Limits Romance
✔️ Protective & Possessive Hero
✔️ Playboy Hero
✔️ He Falls First & Harder
✔️ Secretly Obsessed Hero
✔️ Forced Proximity
✔️ Persistent Ex
✔️ Reality Star FMC
✔️ Dual POV – 1st Person
Final Thoughts
Keep Me Close was a really enjoyable addition to the Chicago Railers series. It is fun, swoony, romantic, and easy to devour, with just the right amount of angst and plenty of chemistry between the main characters.
It doesn't have quite the same emotional depth as Promise Me This, but it doesn't need to. This one is all about the banter, tension, secret pining, fake dating, and watching a supposedly carefree hockey playboy turn completely obsessed with one woman.
The only thing I am taking away from this book is that I now need Evelyn and Hugh's story and after those glimpses of Jax and Sloane, apparently I need that one too.
Jennifer Sucevic, please stop giving me new couples to obsess over. I have a TBR to maintain.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (2/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Series: Chicago Railers Hockey, Book 5 (interconnected standalone)
HEA: Yes
After Promise Me This, I was excited to jump back into the Chicago Railers world, and Keep Me Close was such a fun change of pace.
Jennifer Sucevic once again delivers an addictive hockey romance, but this one leans much more into banter, chemistry, fake dating, and swoony romance than the emotional heaviness of the previous book.
And honestly? I had a great time with it.
The pacing worked really well for me. The story moves along quickly without feeling like it is rushing through the romance, and there was always enough happening to keep me invested. I especially enjoyed how naturally the tension between Knox and Chey developed. Their chemistry, teasing, and general inability to leave each other alone made their relationship incredibly entertaining to follow.
Knox was probably my favorite part of this book.
Give me a hero who looks like a cocky hockey playboy on the outside but is actually completely gone for his woman, and I am sold. The secret pining, protective behavior, and the fact that he clearly falls harder than he ever intended made him ridiculously easy to love.
The fake-dating trope was also done really well here. It gives them plenty of forced proximity and opportunities for the chemistry to build without the romance feeling artificially dragged out. There is a lovely balance between the playful moments and the more emotional ones, and I really liked seeing Knox's softer side come through underneath all that confidence.
Compared to Promise Me This, this one definitely feels lighter and more playful. The spice level is also fairly low, but the chemistry is still strong enough that I never felt like the romance was missing anything.
One thing I particularly love about this series is that the previous couples continue to feel like part of the bigger Chicago Railers universe. Evelyn and Hugh's storyline continues to develop in the background, and there is one particular moment involving them that absolutely destroyed me.
I am saying nothing more.
And then those epilogues gave us a little taste of Jax and Sloane, and I am already invested. I have a feeling their story could be one of the most emotionally brutal ones in the series so far, and naturally, I am already impatient for it.
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by CJ Bloom and Alex Knox, and they were fantastic together.
CJ Bloom captured Chey's personality really well, especially her frustration, vulnerability, and the gradual shift in her feelings toward Knox.
Alex Knox was absolutely perfect for Knox. He brought the cocky, teasing hockey-player energy, but also managed to switch effortlessly into the protective and more emotional side of his character.
Their performances added a lot to the banter and chemistry, and the duet format worked beautifully for this story.
What I Loved
✔️ Fun enemies-to-lovers dynamic
✔️ Fake dating
✔️ Secret pining
✔️ Hero falls first and harder
✔️ Completely obsessed/protective MMC
✔️ Great banter
✔️ Strong chemistry
✔️ Easy, addictive pacing
✔️ Continued storylines from previous books
✔️ No unnecessary third-act breakup
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Hockey Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Fake Dating
✔️ Secret Pining
✔️ Off-Limits Romance
✔️ Protective & Possessive Hero
✔️ Playboy Hero
✔️ He Falls First & Harder
✔️ Secretly Obsessed Hero
✔️ Forced Proximity
✔️ Persistent Ex
✔️ Reality Star FMC
✔️ Dual POV – 1st Person
Final Thoughts
Keep Me Close was a really enjoyable addition to the Chicago Railers series. It is fun, swoony, romantic, and easy to devour, with just the right amount of angst and plenty of chemistry between the main characters.
It doesn't have quite the same emotional depth as Promise Me This, but it doesn't need to. This one is all about the banter, tension, secret pining, fake dating, and watching a supposedly carefree hockey playboy turn completely obsessed with one woman.
The only thing I am taking away from this book is that I now need Evelyn and Hugh's story and after those glimpses of Jax and Sloane, apparently I need that one too.
Jennifer Sucevic, please stop giving me new couples to obsess over. I have a TBR to maintain.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Cheyenne & Knox are 💗💚🦄🥰😍🔥
Tout d’abord merci à Valentine PR pour l’envoi de ce service presse que j’ai reçu pour mon plus grand plaisir.
Si vous lisez mes chroniques, vous connaissez mon amour inconditionnel pour les romances sportives et surtout quand ça tourne autour du hockey.
Jennifer Sucevic est une autrice qui sait écrire des histoires autour du sport et je suis fan de sa plume depuis le début. Elle sort un livre et il finit d’office dans ma bibliothèque, elle fait partie de mes autrices chouchous et je ne suis jamais déçue en la lisant. Ceci étant dit, cette review ne sera donc pas du tout objective, et en plus chaque tome de cette série est un coup de cœur ❤️ et avec ce tome 5, elle a encore surpassé les autres héros. Chaque tome est meilleur que le précédent et même si on se dit que ce n’est pas possible et bien je vous assure que oui !
C’est donc le tome 5 de la série Chicago Railers Hockey, on va suivre Cheyenne & Knox. Tous les deux ont une histoire commune. En effet, la soeur de Cheyenne est mariée avec le grand frère de Knox. Et c’est un insta love, c’est à dire que Knox au premier regard est tombé amoureux d’elle mais comme elle lui était interdite, il s’est toujours mis des barrières à tel point que toute sa famille à lui et même Cheyenne, ont toujours pensé qu’il la détestait.
Il a donc toujours refoulé ses sentiments mais depuis quelques temps, malgré son succès dans l’équipe des Railers et à voir que ses coéquipiers et amis sont quasi tous casés et ont trouvé leur moitié, il commence à lui aussi vouloir se poser.
Cheyenne est une enfant star depuis toujours et a un show de télé-réalité sur sa vie mais elle s’essouffle et a l’impression de ne plus être maîtresse de sa propre vie, la faute a sa mère aussi, qui est sa manager mais qui ne voit que le fric et pas les intérêts de sa fille.
Son ex commence à être un peu trop lourd et pesant, elle part de Los Angeles et se rend à Chicago pour demander de l’aide afin que son ex comprenne que c’est fini. Elle pense alors à Knox qui est la seule personne auquel son ex ne penserait pas et qui pourrait devenir son faux petit ami pour un temps.
Elle se présente alors chez lui et malgré ses réticences, il finit par accepter. Sauf que son ex tourne au sociopathe car il est obsédé par Cheyenne et en devient dangereux. Knox devient alors hyper protecteur et l’invite à rester chez elle.
Il faut dire que tous les 2 ensemble font des étincelles et la tension entre eux est crépitante de fou.
Leur colocation en proximité forcée va augmenter les sentiments entre eux. Chacun va vraiment apprendre à connaître l’autre notamment Cheyenne qui a beaucoup de préjugés sur Knox qui s’avèrent totalement faux.
Dans cette série tous les hommes sont des green flags, des hommes capables mais Knox a vraiment surpassé tous ses amis. Il est obsessed, protecteur, romantique, adorable, attentionné, il sait même jouer du piano, bref un parfait bookboyfriend.
Quant à Cheyenne, en venant à Chicago, elle va apprendre la vraie valeur de l’amitié avec les filles (les héroïnes des précédents tomes) et comment être intégrée dans un groupe sans aucun jugement. Elle qui a toujours vécu dans le monde faux du showbiz, ça va radicalement la changer et lui ouvrir les yeux. Elle va aussi apprendre à devenir elle-même et se battre pour ses choix.
J’ai adoré leur alchimie et leurs connexions, c’est vraiment un couple qui est apparu comme une évidence dès le départ, il leur aura juste fallu quelques années pour s’en rendre compte. Mais comme on dit mieux vaut tard que jamais.
Je le dis à chaque nouveau tome, mais ce tome est mon préféré et pourtant chaque tome est un coup de cœur à sa façon.
Le found family est toujours autant présent des 2 côtés et les interactions entre tous sont toujours aussi drôles. C’est un plaisir de retrouver tous les personnages des livres précédents. Les filles sont adorables mais aussi très protectrices avec Cheyenne dans ce tome.
La plume addictive de l’autrice joue beaucoup. C’est une histoire qui se lit vite très vite, tellement elle est bien, tellement on se régale. Je ne peux que vous recommander de la découvrir ainsi que toute la série. Je n’ai qu’une hâte c’est de découvrir le prochain tome.
Tout d’abord merci à Valentine PR pour l’envoi de ce service presse que j’ai reçu pour mon plus grand plaisir.
Si vous lisez mes chroniques, vous connaissez mon amour inconditionnel pour les romances sportives et surtout quand ça tourne autour du hockey.
Jennifer Sucevic est une autrice qui sait écrire des histoires autour du sport et je suis fan de sa plume depuis le début. Elle sort un livre et il finit d’office dans ma bibliothèque, elle fait partie de mes autrices chouchous et je ne suis jamais déçue en la lisant. Ceci étant dit, cette review ne sera donc pas du tout objective, et en plus chaque tome de cette série est un coup de cœur ❤️ et avec ce tome 5, elle a encore surpassé les autres héros. Chaque tome est meilleur que le précédent et même si on se dit que ce n’est pas possible et bien je vous assure que oui !
C’est donc le tome 5 de la série Chicago Railers Hockey, on va suivre Cheyenne & Knox. Tous les deux ont une histoire commune. En effet, la soeur de Cheyenne est mariée avec le grand frère de Knox. Et c’est un insta love, c’est à dire que Knox au premier regard est tombé amoureux d’elle mais comme elle lui était interdite, il s’est toujours mis des barrières à tel point que toute sa famille à lui et même Cheyenne, ont toujours pensé qu’il la détestait.
Il a donc toujours refoulé ses sentiments mais depuis quelques temps, malgré son succès dans l’équipe des Railers et à voir que ses coéquipiers et amis sont quasi tous casés et ont trouvé leur moitié, il commence à lui aussi vouloir se poser.
Cheyenne est une enfant star depuis toujours et a un show de télé-réalité sur sa vie mais elle s’essouffle et a l’impression de ne plus être maîtresse de sa propre vie, la faute a sa mère aussi, qui est sa manager mais qui ne voit que le fric et pas les intérêts de sa fille.
Son ex commence à être un peu trop lourd et pesant, elle part de Los Angeles et se rend à Chicago pour demander de l’aide afin que son ex comprenne que c’est fini. Elle pense alors à Knox qui est la seule personne auquel son ex ne penserait pas et qui pourrait devenir son faux petit ami pour un temps.
Elle se présente alors chez lui et malgré ses réticences, il finit par accepter. Sauf que son ex tourne au sociopathe car il est obsédé par Cheyenne et en devient dangereux. Knox devient alors hyper protecteur et l’invite à rester chez elle.
Il faut dire que tous les 2 ensemble font des étincelles et la tension entre eux est crépitante de fou.
Leur colocation en proximité forcée va augmenter les sentiments entre eux. Chacun va vraiment apprendre à connaître l’autre notamment Cheyenne qui a beaucoup de préjugés sur Knox qui s’avèrent totalement faux.
Dans cette série tous les hommes sont des green flags, des hommes capables mais Knox a vraiment surpassé tous ses amis. Il est obsessed, protecteur, romantique, adorable, attentionné, il sait même jouer du piano, bref un parfait bookboyfriend.
Quant à Cheyenne, en venant à Chicago, elle va apprendre la vraie valeur de l’amitié avec les filles (les héroïnes des précédents tomes) et comment être intégrée dans un groupe sans aucun jugement. Elle qui a toujours vécu dans le monde faux du showbiz, ça va radicalement la changer et lui ouvrir les yeux. Elle va aussi apprendre à devenir elle-même et se battre pour ses choix.
J’ai adoré leur alchimie et leurs connexions, c’est vraiment un couple qui est apparu comme une évidence dès le départ, il leur aura juste fallu quelques années pour s’en rendre compte. Mais comme on dit mieux vaut tard que jamais.
Je le dis à chaque nouveau tome, mais ce tome est mon préféré et pourtant chaque tome est un coup de cœur à sa façon.
Le found family est toujours autant présent des 2 côtés et les interactions entre tous sont toujours aussi drôles. C’est un plaisir de retrouver tous les personnages des livres précédents. Les filles sont adorables mais aussi très protectrices avec Cheyenne dans ce tome.
La plume addictive de l’autrice joue beaucoup. C’est une histoire qui se lit vite très vite, tellement elle est bien, tellement on se régale. Je ne peux que vous recommander de la découvrir ainsi que toute la série. Je n’ai qu’une hâte c’est de découvrir le prochain tome.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🏒 Hockey Romance
🔥 Enemies to Lovers
💞 Fake Dating
🤫 Secret Pining
🚫 Off Limits Romance
👫 Sibling’s In-Law
🛡️ Protective Hero
😏 Playboy Hero
💘 He Falls First
🥹 He’s Been Pining
⚡ Forced Proximity
💔 Persistent Ex
🔥 Boy Obsessed Hero
🌶️ Spicy Romance
✨ No Third Act Breakup
❤️ Happily Ever After
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Narrators: CJ Bloom | Alex Knox
Keep Me Close is a fun, swoony, spicy, and addictive enemies to lovers hockey romance packed with fake dating, years of unresolved tension, secret pining, and a hero who turns out to be far more obsessed with his girl than anyone realises. As the fifth book in Jennifer Sucevic’s Chicago Railers series, Knox and Chey deliver all the banter, chemistry, protectiveness, and emotion I love in this series.
Knox McNichols has built himself a reputation as the NHL playboy who never takes anything too seriously. He also happens to be the one man who knows exactly how to get under Chey’s skin. Thanks to their siblings being married, they have spent years circling each other, trading jabs, and pretending the sparks flying between them are nothing more than irritation.
When Chey’s ex refuses to accept that their relationship is over, Knox becomes the last person she expects to turn to for help. Her solution is simple. Knox will pretend to be her boyfriend long enough to convince her ex that she has moved on. Except Knox takes his new role very seriously, complete with rules about flirting, keeping her location on, and telling him immediately if her ex contacts her.
I loved watching their relationship shift once the fake dating began. All those years of teasing and arguing suddenly take on a completely different meaning, especially when it becomes obvious that Knox’s feelings are anything but fake. Beneath the easy smiles and playboy reputation is an incredibly protective, caring, and completely gone man who has been hiding just how much Chey means to him.
The chemistry between these two was fantastic. Their banter made the enemies to lovers element so much fun, but it was Knox’s secret pining and the way his protective side came roaring out that really won me over. There is something so satisfying about watching a supposed playboy become completely focused on one woman, and Knox definitely delivers that boy obsessed energy.
There is also enough tension surrounding Chey’s ex to add another layer to the story without taking away from the romance. I especially loved that we get to enjoy Knox and Chey actually figuring out their relationship rather than having everything destroyed by unnecessary drama near the end.
CJ Bloom and Alex Knox were fantastic together and brought so much personality to the audiobook. CJ captured Chey’s frustration, vulnerability, and growing feelings beautifully, while Alex was perfect as Knox, especially when his teasing confidence gave way to that protective, possessive side. Their performances made the banter, chemistry, and emotional moments even better.
Keep Me Close was another entertaining addition to the Chicago Railers series. If you love hockey romance, fake dating, enemies to lovers, secret pining, protective heroes, and discovering that the man you thought couldn’t stand you has actually wanted you all along, Knox and Chey’s story is definitely one to pick up.
🔥 Enemies to Lovers
💞 Fake Dating
🤫 Secret Pining
🚫 Off Limits Romance
👫 Sibling’s In-Law
🛡️ Protective Hero
😏 Playboy Hero
💘 He Falls First
🥹 He’s Been Pining
⚡ Forced Proximity
💔 Persistent Ex
🔥 Boy Obsessed Hero
🌶️ Spicy Romance
✨ No Third Act Breakup
❤️ Happily Ever After
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Narrators: CJ Bloom | Alex Knox
Keep Me Close is a fun, swoony, spicy, and addictive enemies to lovers hockey romance packed with fake dating, years of unresolved tension, secret pining, and a hero who turns out to be far more obsessed with his girl than anyone realises. As the fifth book in Jennifer Sucevic’s Chicago Railers series, Knox and Chey deliver all the banter, chemistry, protectiveness, and emotion I love in this series.
Knox McNichols has built himself a reputation as the NHL playboy who never takes anything too seriously. He also happens to be the one man who knows exactly how to get under Chey’s skin. Thanks to their siblings being married, they have spent years circling each other, trading jabs, and pretending the sparks flying between them are nothing more than irritation.
When Chey’s ex refuses to accept that their relationship is over, Knox becomes the last person she expects to turn to for help. Her solution is simple. Knox will pretend to be her boyfriend long enough to convince her ex that she has moved on. Except Knox takes his new role very seriously, complete with rules about flirting, keeping her location on, and telling him immediately if her ex contacts her.
I loved watching their relationship shift once the fake dating began. All those years of teasing and arguing suddenly take on a completely different meaning, especially when it becomes obvious that Knox’s feelings are anything but fake. Beneath the easy smiles and playboy reputation is an incredibly protective, caring, and completely gone man who has been hiding just how much Chey means to him.
The chemistry between these two was fantastic. Their banter made the enemies to lovers element so much fun, but it was Knox’s secret pining and the way his protective side came roaring out that really won me over. There is something so satisfying about watching a supposed playboy become completely focused on one woman, and Knox definitely delivers that boy obsessed energy.
There is also enough tension surrounding Chey’s ex to add another layer to the story without taking away from the romance. I especially loved that we get to enjoy Knox and Chey actually figuring out their relationship rather than having everything destroyed by unnecessary drama near the end.
CJ Bloom and Alex Knox were fantastic together and brought so much personality to the audiobook. CJ captured Chey’s frustration, vulnerability, and growing feelings beautifully, while Alex was perfect as Knox, especially when his teasing confidence gave way to that protective, possessive side. Their performances made the banter, chemistry, and emotional moments even better.
Keep Me Close was another entertaining addition to the Chicago Railers series. If you love hockey romance, fake dating, enemies to lovers, secret pining, protective heroes, and discovering that the man you thought couldn’t stand you has actually wanted you all along, Knox and Chey’s story is definitely one to pick up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
📕 Book 60 of 2026 📚
🏒 MMC: Knox McNichols
🎥 FMC: Cheyenne Benson
🌶️ Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️ Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I opened Keep Me Close today thinking I was going to read for a little while and then get on with everything else I had to do. That plan lasted about five minutes. 😂 I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting because I genuinely did not want to put it down.
At this point, the Chicago Railers series has me completely invested, and Knox and Cheyenne’s story was exactly the kind of romance I was hoping for.
These two already had years of history between them. They knew exactly how to annoy each other, push each other’s buttons, and keep the banter going. But once Cheyenne shows up at Knox’s place needing help, everything between them starts to shift.
Cheyenne is dealing with so much when she comes to him. Her life has been lived in front of cameras for years, and now she is trying to get away from an ex who refuses to let go. She needs space, safety, and somewhere she can finally breathe. Knox ends up being that person for her.
And I really loved him for that.
Knox definitely has that confident hockey player reputation, but there was so much more to him once we got to see how he was with Cheyenne. He paid attention to her. He listened. He wanted to protect her, but he never made her feel like she couldn’t make her own decisions. I loved seeing that softer side of him come out.
It also becomes very clear that his feelings for Cheyenne did not suddenly appear because of their fake dating situation. They had been there for a while. A LONG while. 😂 Watching those feelings finally come out was probably one of my favorite parts of the book.
Cheyenne’s growth was another thing I really enjoyed. She had spent so much of her life doing what other people expected from her, so seeing her start to figure out what she wanted for herself made her story feel like more than just the romance. I especially loved seeing her experience normal little things away from the reality TV world and build real friendships with the other women.
And of course, the romance was SO GOOD.
The fake dating setup was fun, the tension between them had already been building for years, and once they stopped fighting what was happening between them, I was completely sold. Their relationship felt natural because they already knew each other so well, even if most of that relationship had previously consisted of teasing and driving each other crazy.
There were also several moments with the rest of the Chicago Railers characters that had me emotional. I am not saying anything because I do not want to spoil it, but Jennifer definitely left me wondering where a few of these storylines are going next.
This one had hockey, fake dating, years of hidden feelings, plenty of banter, some emotional moments, and a couple I really believed belonged together.
The fact that I read all of Keep Me Close in one day probably says more than anything else I could write here. I was completely caught up in Knox and Cheyenne’s story from beginning to end.
Now I am ready for the next Chicago Railers book because apparently I have no patience when it comes to this series. 😂🏒💕
Keep Me Close releases August 27th!
🏒 MMC: Knox McNichols
🎥 FMC: Cheyenne Benson
🌶️ Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️ Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I opened Keep Me Close today thinking I was going to read for a little while and then get on with everything else I had to do. That plan lasted about five minutes. 😂 I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting because I genuinely did not want to put it down.
At this point, the Chicago Railers series has me completely invested, and Knox and Cheyenne’s story was exactly the kind of romance I was hoping for.
These two already had years of history between them. They knew exactly how to annoy each other, push each other’s buttons, and keep the banter going. But once Cheyenne shows up at Knox’s place needing help, everything between them starts to shift.
Cheyenne is dealing with so much when she comes to him. Her life has been lived in front of cameras for years, and now she is trying to get away from an ex who refuses to let go. She needs space, safety, and somewhere she can finally breathe. Knox ends up being that person for her.
And I really loved him for that.
Knox definitely has that confident hockey player reputation, but there was so much more to him once we got to see how he was with Cheyenne. He paid attention to her. He listened. He wanted to protect her, but he never made her feel like she couldn’t make her own decisions. I loved seeing that softer side of him come out.
It also becomes very clear that his feelings for Cheyenne did not suddenly appear because of their fake dating situation. They had been there for a while. A LONG while. 😂 Watching those feelings finally come out was probably one of my favorite parts of the book.
Cheyenne’s growth was another thing I really enjoyed. She had spent so much of her life doing what other people expected from her, so seeing her start to figure out what she wanted for herself made her story feel like more than just the romance. I especially loved seeing her experience normal little things away from the reality TV world and build real friendships with the other women.
And of course, the romance was SO GOOD.
The fake dating setup was fun, the tension between them had already been building for years, and once they stopped fighting what was happening between them, I was completely sold. Their relationship felt natural because they already knew each other so well, even if most of that relationship had previously consisted of teasing and driving each other crazy.
There were also several moments with the rest of the Chicago Railers characters that had me emotional. I am not saying anything because I do not want to spoil it, but Jennifer definitely left me wondering where a few of these storylines are going next.
This one had hockey, fake dating, years of hidden feelings, plenty of banter, some emotional moments, and a couple I really believed belonged together.
The fact that I read all of Keep Me Close in one day probably says more than anything else I could write here. I was completely caught up in Knox and Cheyenne’s story from beginning to end.
Now I am ready for the next Chicago Railers book because apparently I have no patience when it comes to this series. 😂🏒💕
Keep Me Close releases August 27th!
August 27, 2026
There’s something about a man who doesn’t need to make a big production out of taking care of the people he loves, and Knox McNichols might be one of my favorite examples of it.
Knox is controlled intensity personified. He notices everything, quietly handles things without expecting recognition, and just because he doesn’t outwardly react doesn’t mean he isn’t feeling everything beneath the surface. And when it comes to Cheyenne, all that carefully maintained control is hanging on by a thread.
These two have spent years trading barbs and pretending they aren’t wildly attracted to each other. So when Cheyenne shows up at Knox’s penthouse asking him to fake date her in an attempt to get her increasingly frightening ex to back off, Knox agrees, with some VERY possessive rules.
But what I loved most about Knox was that his protectiveness never became another form of control.
Cheyenne has spent almost her entire life in front of cameras, with her family’s reality show dictating so much of who she is and how she lives. She’s finally reached a point where she desperately needs to figure out what she wants, and Knox gives her the space and support to do exactly that.
He sees her completely. Not Cheyenne the reality star. Not the polished version everyone expects. Just her.
His self-control throughout the story impressed me so much because he’s constantly gauging what Cheyenne needs from him, even when it goes against what he might want. Her safety and wellbeing are always his priority, but he also understands that protecting her doesn’t mean making her decisions for her. He wants to empower her to take control of her own life.
I also loved watching Cheyenne slowly come into her own. Her growth felt natural and perfectly paced as she began separating herself from the life that had been created for her and discovering what genuine friendships, privacy, and normalcy could look like. And seeing the Railers crew immediately embrace her rather than Cheyenne Benson, reality star, made my found-family-loving heart ridiculously happy.
Then there’s the romance itself. Years of antagonizing each other. Secret mutual attraction. Fake dating. Forced proximity. Knox slowly losing that legendary self-control. And a certain piano bench that will never be just a piano bench again.
But underneath all the chemistry was this genuine understanding between them that made their relationship work so well for me. They pay attention to each other. They know when to push, when to back off, and when the other simply needs someone beside them.
And I HAVE to mention Hugh and Evelyn. That ongoing storyline continues to have me completely invested, and there is a moment in this book that had tears running down my face. I need their entire story. Immediately.
Keep Me Close might just be my favorite Jennifer Sucevic book yet. Knox and Cheyenne brought out the very best in each other, and I loved that a romance featuring such a protective, possessive hero ultimately became a story about giving the woman he loves the freedom to choose her own life.
Knox doesn’t just want to keep Cheyenne close. He gives her the freedom to decide that close to him is exactly where she wants to be.
Knox is controlled intensity personified. He notices everything, quietly handles things without expecting recognition, and just because he doesn’t outwardly react doesn’t mean he isn’t feeling everything beneath the surface. And when it comes to Cheyenne, all that carefully maintained control is hanging on by a thread.
These two have spent years trading barbs and pretending they aren’t wildly attracted to each other. So when Cheyenne shows up at Knox’s penthouse asking him to fake date her in an attempt to get her increasingly frightening ex to back off, Knox agrees, with some VERY possessive rules.
But what I loved most about Knox was that his protectiveness never became another form of control.
Cheyenne has spent almost her entire life in front of cameras, with her family’s reality show dictating so much of who she is and how she lives. She’s finally reached a point where she desperately needs to figure out what she wants, and Knox gives her the space and support to do exactly that.
He sees her completely. Not Cheyenne the reality star. Not the polished version everyone expects. Just her.
His self-control throughout the story impressed me so much because he’s constantly gauging what Cheyenne needs from him, even when it goes against what he might want. Her safety and wellbeing are always his priority, but he also understands that protecting her doesn’t mean making her decisions for her. He wants to empower her to take control of her own life.
I also loved watching Cheyenne slowly come into her own. Her growth felt natural and perfectly paced as she began separating herself from the life that had been created for her and discovering what genuine friendships, privacy, and normalcy could look like. And seeing the Railers crew immediately embrace her rather than Cheyenne Benson, reality star, made my found-family-loving heart ridiculously happy.
Then there’s the romance itself. Years of antagonizing each other. Secret mutual attraction. Fake dating. Forced proximity. Knox slowly losing that legendary self-control. And a certain piano bench that will never be just a piano bench again.
But underneath all the chemistry was this genuine understanding between them that made their relationship work so well for me. They pay attention to each other. They know when to push, when to back off, and when the other simply needs someone beside them.
And I HAVE to mention Hugh and Evelyn. That ongoing storyline continues to have me completely invested, and there is a moment in this book that had tears running down my face. I need their entire story. Immediately.
Keep Me Close might just be my favorite Jennifer Sucevic book yet. Knox and Cheyenne brought out the very best in each other, and I loved that a romance featuring such a protective, possessive hero ultimately became a story about giving the woman he loves the freedom to choose her own life.
Knox doesn’t just want to keep Cheyenne close. He gives her the freedom to decide that close to him is exactly where she wants to be.
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