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Touchdowns & Tinsel
I spent years of my childhood dreaming of the day I’d call Atlas Grant my own.
He was my older brother’s best friend, my protector, my friend, and the guy I had loved for as long as I could remember.
I bided my time, waiting until I was old enough to make my move.
But the moment I finally worked up the courage to tell him how I felt, he shattered my heart without a second thought.
Since then, I’ve done everything I could to avoid him.
Too bad that’s no longer an option… Because now I’m on a plane to Las Vegas for a combined bachelor and bachelorette weekend. Which means spending the next few days with Atlas is unavoidable.
If I can’t escape him, I’ll settle for making the football superstar regret ever rejecting me.
But you know what they say about Vegas…
What happens there stays there.
Well, unfortunately for us, some things can’t be buried under those neon lights.
He was my older brother’s best friend, my protector, my friend, and the guy I had loved for as long as I could remember.
I bided my time, waiting until I was old enough to make my move.
But the moment I finally worked up the courage to tell him how I felt, he shattered my heart without a second thought.
Since then, I’ve done everything I could to avoid him.
Too bad that’s no longer an option… Because now I’m on a plane to Las Vegas for a combined bachelor and bachelorette weekend. Which means spending the next few days with Atlas is unavoidable.
If I can’t escape him, I’ll settle for making the football superstar regret ever rejecting me.
But you know what they say about Vegas…
What happens there stays there.
Well, unfortunately for us, some things can’t be buried under those neon lights.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2026
About the author
L.A. Shaw
24 books384 followersA New Yorker and a Southern Belle.
Two Book Obsessed Babes that became lifelong best friends over their love for a good romance novel.
When they're not writing, they're devouring a good book, or spending time with their family and friends.
Total opposites in some ways and exactly the same in others, making them a dynamic author duo.
Two Book Obsessed Babes that became lifelong best friends over their love for a good romance novel.
When they're not writing, they're devouring a good book, or spending time with their family and friends.
Total opposites in some ways and exactly the same in others, making them a dynamic author duo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
October 22, 2026
4.25🌟 | 3🌶️
The road from heartbreak to happily ever after gets a little wild when Vegas is involved.
Henley and Atlas had me smiling with their bickering, playful banter, and all that tension between them. You could feel the history they shared, and I was rooting for them to finally get their timing right.
Henley was such a fun lead, and I could understand why she was hesitant to trust Atlas again after he broke her heart. Meanwhile, this man was determined to make things right, and watching him go all in for her was so satisfying! His efforts to show Henley how much she meant to him had me swooning, and their chemistry made it easy to root for them.
Between the accidental Vegas wedding, football, holiday vibes, and plenty of steamy moments, this was such an enjoyable read. I especially liked seeing Atlas prove that he wanted more than a second chance fling, while Henley slowly let herself believe in them again.
A sweet, flirty romance with a hero who knows exactly who he wants and isn’t about to let her go this time!
~~~~
A sincere thank you to L.A. Shaw and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
The road from heartbreak to happily ever after gets a little wild when Vegas is involved.
Henley and Atlas had me smiling with their bickering, playful banter, and all that tension between them. You could feel the history they shared, and I was rooting for them to finally get their timing right.
Henley was such a fun lead, and I could understand why she was hesitant to trust Atlas again after he broke her heart. Meanwhile, this man was determined to make things right, and watching him go all in for her was so satisfying! His efforts to show Henley how much she meant to him had me swooning, and their chemistry made it easy to root for them.
Between the accidental Vegas wedding, football, holiday vibes, and plenty of steamy moments, this was such an enjoyable read. I especially liked seeing Atlas prove that he wanted more than a second chance fling, while Henley slowly let herself believe in them again.
A sweet, flirty romance with a hero who knows exactly who he wants and isn’t about to let her go this time!
~~~~
A sincere thank you to L.A. Shaw and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whatever happens in Vegas does not always stay in Vegas. I love a good oops; we got drunk and married in Vegas. Add a brother’s best friend to the mix, and you’ve got one fantastic book. I wish there were more like it!
Henley is determined to stay away from Atlas, but wants him to regret his words from years ago. Atlas knows he needs to stay away but can’t take his eyes off of her.
Henley and Atlas are definitely one of my favorite couples. The Bangor is top-notch, and Atlas is swoon-worthy. Henley is a hot ticket. Absolutely love her.
I will add that this is my first time reading a book by this author, and I feel privileged to have been part of this fun, beautiful journey.
October 22, 2026
Beta reader/arc review
"LIttle Wife" is my new favorite nickname. I absolutely loved Atlas & Henley. This was so fun and sweet. It had everything and all these tropes combined,
Pro Football
Brothers Best Friend
Accidental Marriage
Childhood Crush
LA Shaw's writing hooks me all the way through
The tension the chemistry it was all there
Henley has so much sass when it comes to Atlas. He was her crush from a young age and when she finally gets the courage to admit her feelings he turns her down. Over the years her crush may fade but when they are back in the same place at the same time Atlas tries his hardest to not make the same mistake twice and prove to Henley he had his reasons
Between the banter, the flirting, & the texts it was all so good.
The friendship between Henley and Lily is so genuine I love a great bestie
Atlas is ALL SWOON, he falls so damn hard for Henley not waitimg to miss his second chance.
"You must have been looking in my direction a lot then, because I couldn't take my eyes off you,"
Squealing because Atlas is so sweet "you don't get it, Hen." " They may be pretty, but they pale in comparison to you."
Highly recommend can't wait for more from this series
"LIttle Wife" is my new favorite nickname. I absolutely loved Atlas & Henley. This was so fun and sweet. It had everything and all these tropes combined,
Pro Football
Brothers Best Friend
Accidental Marriage
Childhood Crush
LA Shaw's writing hooks me all the way through
The tension the chemistry it was all there
Henley has so much sass when it comes to Atlas. He was her crush from a young age and when she finally gets the courage to admit her feelings he turns her down. Over the years her crush may fade but when they are back in the same place at the same time Atlas tries his hardest to not make the same mistake twice and prove to Henley he had his reasons
Between the banter, the flirting, & the texts it was all so good.
The friendship between Henley and Lily is so genuine I love a great bestie
Atlas is ALL SWOON, he falls so damn hard for Henley not waitimg to miss his second chance.
"You must have been looking in my direction a lot then, because I couldn't take my eyes off you,"
Squealing because Atlas is so sweet "you don't get it, Hen." " They may be pretty, but they pale in comparison to you."
Highly recommend can't wait for more from this series
October 23, 2026
This was such a fun holiday romance! I loved the combination of Christmas magic and football, and it made this such an easy, enjoyable read for me.
I really connected with the characters and loved watching their relationship unfold. Their chemistry and banter had me smiling, and I especially enjoyed seeing their feelings develop while they tried to navigate everything life was throwing at them. There were moments that made me want to shake them, moments that made me smile, and plenty that had me completely invested in their story.
The Christmas atmosphere was another favorite for me. Add in the football element, romance, and characters I actually cared about, and this was exactly the kind of festive read I was in the mood for.
If you’re looking for a cozy Christmas romance with football, chemistry, banter, and characters who will pull you into their story, definitely add Touchdowns and Tinsels to your holiday TBR!
I really connected with the characters and loved watching their relationship unfold. Their chemistry and banter had me smiling, and I especially enjoyed seeing their feelings develop while they tried to navigate everything life was throwing at them. There were moments that made me want to shake them, moments that made me smile, and plenty that had me completely invested in their story.
The Christmas atmosphere was another favorite for me. Add in the football element, romance, and characters I actually cared about, and this was exactly the kind of festive read I was in the mood for.
If you’re looking for a cozy Christmas romance with football, chemistry, banter, and characters who will pull you into their story, definitely add Touchdowns and Tinsels to your holiday TBR!
September 14, 2026
Beta RTC
October 23, 2026
5⭐️ 3🌶
This was so fun. Absolutely loved the sass and the heart. And the spice was perfect. The banter, flirting, bickering, and teasing between Atlas and Henley absolutely me kiicking my feet and laughing. Atlas was a gem, he is so attentive, determined and sentimental while still being perfectly dirty. Henley stole my heart, she just felt like a real person and waching her realize all the little things Atlas was doing helped her open her heart. I loved waching them fall in love. Their chemistry was fire. I adored the holiday settings, they written so well I felt like I was there. I loved them and this second chance accidental marriage.
Love the connection to Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay. They are both stand-alones but are intertwined perfectly.
Thank you to L.A. Shaw for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
This was so fun. Absolutely loved the sass and the heart. And the spice was perfect. The banter, flirting, bickering, and teasing between Atlas and Henley absolutely me kiicking my feet and laughing. Atlas was a gem, he is so attentive, determined and sentimental while still being perfectly dirty. Henley stole my heart, she just felt like a real person and waching her realize all the little things Atlas was doing helped her open her heart. I loved waching them fall in love. Their chemistry was fire. I adored the holiday settings, they written so well I felt like I was there. I loved them and this second chance accidental marriage.
Love the connection to Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay. They are both stand-alones but are intertwined perfectly.
Thank you to L.A. Shaw for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A new-to-me author, and I loved this story! When I signed up to read Katherine Jay’s Blinding Lights, I had the opportunity to receive the ARC for Touchdowns and Tinsel too, and I am SO glad I did! I loved how these two books weave the characters together, and getting to experience both stories made it even better! A brother’s best friend, childhood crush, accidental Vegas wedding, and a man who goes from breaking her heart to being completely OBSESSED with her?! LOVE!!
Henley! I absolutely LOVED her! She’s funny, sassy, has such a big heart, and deserves ALL the love! She’s loved Atlas for as long as she can remember, but after he broke her heart years ago, she’s ready to show him exactly what he’s been missing!
Atlas! This sexy football star had me SWOONING! The way this man fell for Henley and was determined to make her his FOREVER?! I just can't! He knew what he wanted, and he was NOT about to let his second chance with her slip away. And the way he showed up for Henley and made sure she knew just how much she meant to him?!
Vegas, a friends’ wedding, drinking, and gambling! One wild night later, these two wake up MARRIED! I loved watching them grow together and seeing Atlas slowly break down Henley’s walls, helping her heal from the hurt of her father walking away years ago. The way he showed her she was worthy of a love that stays?!
This was such a fun, sweet, swoony romance, and I loved every minute of it! If you love a man who falls hard, knows exactly who he wants, and will do whatever it takes to make her his forever, you need this one on your TBR!
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏈 Pro football romance
🏈 Brother’s best friend
🏈 Accidental marriage
🏈 Her childhood crush but now he’s obsessed
🌻Thank you to L.A. Shaw for sending me my arc!
Henley! I absolutely LOVED her! She’s funny, sassy, has such a big heart, and deserves ALL the love! She’s loved Atlas for as long as she can remember, but after he broke her heart years ago, she’s ready to show him exactly what he’s been missing!
Atlas! This sexy football star had me SWOONING! The way this man fell for Henley and was determined to make her his FOREVER?! I just can't! He knew what he wanted, and he was NOT about to let his second chance with her slip away. And the way he showed up for Henley and made sure she knew just how much she meant to him?!
Vegas, a friends’ wedding, drinking, and gambling! One wild night later, these two wake up MARRIED! I loved watching them grow together and seeing Atlas slowly break down Henley’s walls, helping her heal from the hurt of her father walking away years ago. The way he showed her she was worthy of a love that stays?!
This was such a fun, sweet, swoony romance, and I loved every minute of it! If you love a man who falls hard, knows exactly who he wants, and will do whatever it takes to make her his forever, you need this one on your TBR!
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏈 Pro football romance
🏈 Brother’s best friend
🏈 Accidental marriage
🏈 Her childhood crush but now he’s obsessed
🌻Thank you to L.A. Shaw for sending me my arc!
Review of advance copy
Atlas and Henley have known each other since their childhoods with Atlas being her brother’s best friend. A childhood crush isn’t reciprocated years later when she confesses her feeling at a college visit.
When they reconnect in Vegas at a bachelor/bachelorette party, Atlas has one goal - make her understand what really happened when he said no. Henley is resistant but after blackjack and booze, they wake up the next day with some extra jewelry on their hands.
Atlas is a sweetheart. He truly cares for her and wants to show her how he’s regretted turning her down years ago. His actions speak louder than words throughout the book.
Henley is headstrong and fierce. She speaks freely and has no fear of reaction from others. I love how she didn’t back down from how he hurt her in the past, but allowed him to prove himself now.
Their friend group added a fun element to the story as well. I loved how they all interacted together even if they didn’t run in the same circles. Their moms were a highlight in the meddling ways of pushing what they’ve seen since they were younger.
Thanks to Author Agency for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When they reconnect in Vegas at a bachelor/bachelorette party, Atlas has one goal - make her understand what really happened when he said no. Henley is resistant but after blackjack and booze, they wake up the next day with some extra jewelry on their hands.
Atlas is a sweetheart. He truly cares for her and wants to show her how he’s regretted turning her down years ago. His actions speak louder than words throughout the book.
Henley is headstrong and fierce. She speaks freely and has no fear of reaction from others. I love how she didn’t back down from how he hurt her in the past, but allowed him to prove himself now.
Their friend group added a fun element to the story as well. I loved how they all interacted together even if they didn’t run in the same circles. Their moms were a highlight in the meddling ways of pushing what they’ve seen since they were younger.
Thanks to Author Agency for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 23, 2026
Touchdowns and Tinsel is a second chance romance that steals your heart with such ease. Henley had crushed on Atlas since she was a young girl until the moment she turned 18 and took a chance to declare her feelings and was rejected. For years she has stayed away from Atlas until they are thrown together for a mutual friends wedding in Vegas. When Vegas brings them together in a permanent way, Atlas must try to show Henley why they should give a chance before ending things. The connection and chemistry between these two is off the charts, however it is Henley's heart that holds her back, afraid of being let down and having her heart broken. There is plenty of heat and steam between these two but it is the softer moments between them that will have you falling in love alongside them. There are misunderstandings and a little drama to hold your attention, along with some witty banter to make you smile. Such a beautiful love story that has the perfect ending.
October 24, 2026
When Henley was 18 she declared her feeling for Atlas, her brother’s best friend, and was hurt when he didn’t feel the same. Since then, she kept her distance however that is about to be put to the test when they both will be in Vegas to celebrate their friends upcoming nuptials.
Seeing Henley again intensifies the feelings that Atlas has had for Henley. When their fun night together results in an impromptu marriage he isn’t disappointed and now he needs to show her that this wasn’t a mistake, but they are meant to be together.
Henley is feisty, fiery and not about to just forgive and forget the past, but Atlas is determined in his pursuit to show her that she can count on him to be there for her both when it comes to the little things he does for her but the romance as well.
Seeing Henley again intensifies the feelings that Atlas has had for Henley. When their fun night together results in an impromptu marriage he isn’t disappointed and now he needs to show her that this wasn’t a mistake, but they are meant to be together.
Henley is feisty, fiery and not about to just forgive and forget the past, but Atlas is determined in his pursuit to show her that she can count on him to be there for her both when it comes to the little things he does for her but the romance as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Touchdowns & Tinsel is a brother's best friend, football romance.
Atlas burned his bridges when it came to Henley and she is going to take this weekend to show him what he has been missing. I enjoyed seeing these two bicker together. It made for some intense moments where you knew when they came together, the sparks were going to fly everywhere. Henley doesn't want to get hurt again from a rejection to Atlas and you can feel this in a lot of her thoughts and interactions. However, Atlas isn't going to let the best thing to enter his life, slip through his fingers again. I loved these two together and was rooting for them from the start.
Atlas burned his bridges when it came to Henley and she is going to take this weekend to show him what he has been missing. I enjoyed seeing these two bicker together. It made for some intense moments where you knew when they came together, the sparks were going to fly everywhere. Henley doesn't want to get hurt again from a rejection to Atlas and you can feel this in a lot of her thoughts and interactions. However, Atlas isn't going to let the best thing to enter his life, slip through his fingers again. I loved these two together and was rooting for them from the start.
October 22, 2026
Atlas & Henley
Henley had a crush on Atlas. Atlas might not have been as clueless as Henley thought. A weekend in Vegas is going to change everything. I really loved this story a lot. It was an easy read. I flew through it. I also loved how sentimental Atlas was.. his ties to his family were so sweet. Atlas loves his wife and Henley loves her husband. Atlas is easy going and Henley has a bit of panic in her but overall these two are meant to be. Not to mention this found family just made me feel like I was one of the crew (hanging on the wall, watching love unfold). Overall, an easy sweet read.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
Henley had a crush on Atlas. Atlas might not have been as clueless as Henley thought. A weekend in Vegas is going to change everything. I really loved this story a lot. It was an easy read. I flew through it. I also loved how sentimental Atlas was.. his ties to his family were so sweet. Atlas loves his wife and Henley loves her husband. Atlas is easy going and Henley has a bit of panic in her but overall these two are meant to be. Not to mention this found family just made me feel like I was one of the crew (hanging on the wall, watching love unfold). Overall, an easy sweet read.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
October 22, 2026
This was such a fun, easy read. I loved both of our main characters, Atlas and Henley. Brother’s best friend trope never gets old. LA Shaw books never fail to hook me immediately and the entire way through the book. I was feeling all the feels with this one. The way Atlas fell soo HARD was incredibly swoony. Everything about Atlas as a matter of fact. 😂 I really enjoyed this book from start to finish and absolutely recommend it.
Thank you LA Shaw for my earc!
Thank you LA Shaw for my earc!
November 3, 2026
For the past six to seven months I have had a love hate relationship with reading. Reading has always brought me joy, I was so excited when Touchdowns & Tinsel hit my kindle. It took me a little longer than I would have liked to finish this gem but life has kept me busy! If you are looking for a light Christmas read let me introduce you to Atlas and Henley. I hope you love them just as much as I did.
L.A. Shaw never disappoints, they are two of my go to authors and I’ll recommend their book with every new release. If you are looking for your next childhood crush, accidental marriage, pro football romance make sure you pick up Touchdowns & Tinsel. You’ll be a Phantoms fan in no time!
Atlas and Henley are darling. Atlas knows what he wants and is patient with Henley, while she learns to trust her heart. They are one of the sweetest couples I have read in a long time. Touchdowns & Tinsel was a good palette cleanser. It had a coherent cohesive storyline with a little Christmas cheer to brighten your day.
L.A. Shaw never disappoints, they are two of my go to authors and I’ll recommend their book with every new release. If you are looking for your next childhood crush, accidental marriage, pro football romance make sure you pick up Touchdowns & Tinsel. You’ll be a Phantoms fan in no time!
Atlas and Henley are darling. Atlas knows what he wants and is patient with Henley, while she learns to trust her heart. They are one of the sweetest couples I have read in a long time. Touchdowns & Tinsel was a good palette cleanser. It had a coherent cohesive storyline with a little Christmas cheer to brighten your day.
November 1, 2026
This is such a fun, quick read. The banter is perfect, the spice is HOT. The holiday background is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Absolutely loved
October 24, 2026
TOUCHDOWNS & TINSEL — L.A. SHAW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️
“LITTLE WIFE.” 😍
Atlas, sir, you had me at the nickname!
A brother’s best friend, second-chance romance wrapped in Christmas magic and football? I’M SOLD. 🎄🏈
Henley’s sass, Atlas’s determination to make up for his past rejection, and the banter, flirting, and texts between them? ABSOLUTE PERFECTION.
The chemistry was chemistry-ing, Atlas was ALL SWOON, and I was kicking my feet watching this man fall HARD for the girl he refused to lose twice.
Five stars for the festive romance and a permanent reservation for Atlas in my book boyfriend collection. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️
“LITTLE WIFE.” 😍
Atlas, sir, you had me at the nickname!
A brother’s best friend, second-chance romance wrapped in Christmas magic and football? I’M SOLD. 🎄🏈
Henley’s sass, Atlas’s determination to make up for his past rejection, and the banter, flirting, and texts between them? ABSOLUTE PERFECTION.
The chemistry was chemistry-ing, Atlas was ALL SWOON, and I was kicking my feet watching this man fall HARD for the girl he refused to lose twice.
Five stars for the festive romance and a permanent reservation for Atlas in my book boyfriend collection. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rcvd an ARC from the author and the author agency.
We meet Henley and her bff Lily off to a friend's engagement party. She is going to show a certain someone what he's missing. Henley hasn't really spoken or seen Atlas in the latest few years since he rejected her and now it's payback time. We meet Atlas, nfl star who lost touch with his bff Beckett over the past few years and hopes to repair their friendship, plus Beckett is Henleys older nlfer brother. Playing blackjack and drinking a lot leads to Henley and Atlas waking up hungover and rings on their fingers. But not just any rings...Atlas' grandparents rings that he wears all the time. Henley is freaking out...she cant remember the night before except for cards and booze. She also can't help looking at how sexy Atlas is. Atlas is having all the feels and wants to stay married. He tells Henley they need to lay low before doing an annulment. Keeping this under wraps is harder than it looks. Atlas will stop at nothing to keep Henley. Will their crazy vegas wedding keep or will forces be at play and they fall part? Such a cute story.
We meet Henley and her bff Lily off to a friend's engagement party. She is going to show a certain someone what he's missing. Henley hasn't really spoken or seen Atlas in the latest few years since he rejected her and now it's payback time. We meet Atlas, nfl star who lost touch with his bff Beckett over the past few years and hopes to repair their friendship, plus Beckett is Henleys older nlfer brother. Playing blackjack and drinking a lot leads to Henley and Atlas waking up hungover and rings on their fingers. But not just any rings...Atlas' grandparents rings that he wears all the time. Henley is freaking out...she cant remember the night before except for cards and booze. She also can't help looking at how sexy Atlas is. Atlas is having all the feels and wants to stay married. He tells Henley they need to lay low before doing an annulment. Keeping this under wraps is harder than it looks. Atlas will stop at nothing to keep Henley. Will their crazy vegas wedding keep or will forces be at play and they fall part? Such a cute story.
October 14, 2026
Touchdowns and Tinsel by LA Shaw Beta Review 🤎
Lauren and I were lucky enough to beta read this one and we fell in love from the get go!
Give me an accidental marriage in Vegas any day and I will eat it right up. This book was right up my alley and I couldn’t get enough.
Atlas and Henley are so fun and their story was such a great time. This book is the perfect start to a great series to come. You can already tell that the found family is going to be top tier.
LA Shaw brought the banter and spice like they always do.
This one kept me wanting more. I am absolutely in love with Atlas. New book boyfriend unlocked. He is hot, possessive and so down bad for Henley. And Henley, I love her sassy attitude, she is truly such a vibe.
Such a great read and start to this NFL series!
What to expect:
Brother’s best friend
They grew up together
Professional football player
Bookstore owner
Her childhood crush
Now he’s the one obsessed
Accidental marriage
#lashaw #touchdownsandtinsel #footballromance #holidayromance #brothersbestfriend
Lauren and I were lucky enough to beta read this one and we fell in love from the get go!
Give me an accidental marriage in Vegas any day and I will eat it right up. This book was right up my alley and I couldn’t get enough.
Atlas and Henley are so fun and their story was such a great time. This book is the perfect start to a great series to come. You can already tell that the found family is going to be top tier.
LA Shaw brought the banter and spice like they always do.
This one kept me wanting more. I am absolutely in love with Atlas. New book boyfriend unlocked. He is hot, possessive and so down bad for Henley. And Henley, I love her sassy attitude, she is truly such a vibe.
Such a great read and start to this NFL series!
What to expect:
Brother’s best friend
They grew up together
Professional football player
Bookstore owner
Her childhood crush
Now he’s the one obsessed
Accidental marriage
#lashaw #touchdownsandtinsel #footballromance #holidayromance #brothersbestfriend
October 26, 2026
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶️ ARC Review ✨ 📖 TOUCHDOWNS & TINSEL 📖 by LA Shaw ✨ Another banger from one of my faves! Atlas & Henley—THESE TWO ARE SO FUCKING CUTE!
Henley Myers has avoided pro football player Atlas Grant ever since she told him how she felt about him at 18 and he rejected her. But when they end up at a friend’s joint bachelor/bachelorette party in Vegas, not everything stays in Vegas. Oops. 🙊 Atlas is known as the charming, life-of-the-party, playboy but he wants a second chance with Henley, and sets out to prove it. He isn’t worried about their accidental marriage—he’ll just wait for Henley to catch up. He thinks she’s adorable, loves her smart mouth, wants to give her everything, and convince her that he’s worth it. 🥹 She’s the woman of his dreams. When he calls her ‘little wife’ and puts her in his phone as ‘wifey’? Gah. 🫠 He calls her ‘baby’ and my heart melted. He runs her a bath, he’s a protector, he admires her. He’s all in but she holds back because she believes men always leave, like her dad, and Atlas is so patient with her.
You can’t help but fall in love with Atlas—he’s close with his parents and loves his mom/wants what his parents have. Atlas worships Henley (in ALL of the ways), and there may be some creative use of🎄tinsel and bows. 🤭 They also give new meaning to ‘ringing in the new year’. Slutty gold chain (but make it one with his grandparents’ wedding rings on it). ✔️ He cooks for her. ✔️ He likes to eat. ✔️ He remembers (and buys) all of her favorite things. ✔️ And the card he writes her—My heart couldn’t take it. 🥹I truly connected with the characters, and loved watching the relationship unfold. There is great chemistry, awesome banter, festive holiday vibes, and wonderful found family. We also get flirting, texts, a sassy FMC, and a swoony, possessive, thoughtful MMC. The ending—perfection. The epilogue—chef’s kiss. 🤌🏻 I also read the ARC of Blinding Lights, the connected book by Katherine Jay where we first meet Atlas and Henley. I love how the two books weave together both stories. 👏🏻
❤️ ‘Ma Cherie’
❤️ She decorates his apartment for Christmas and it makes him so happy!
❤️ Eyes 👀 on me
❤️ He talks her through it
Favorite quotes:
"Will you save me a dance?" he asks.
I lean in closer, letting my lips brush ever so slightly against the shell of his ear. “Not sure
you could handle just one dance."
"Bet," he yells out after me, and I raise my middle finger teasingly behind me.
"Why are you not freaking the fuck out right now?"
"It's kind of hard to when you're standing here, yelling at me, all naked and looking sexy as sin. Pretty damn proud to call you my wife," he confesses, and I can practically feel the way his stare devours me. No! Do not get distracted.
"Hey, it'll all be okay, Bug."
Before I can digest him using my childhood nickname, a name I haven't heard in years, I feel his lips brush lightly over mine. My body instantly melts at the feel of them.
"Take a deep breath. I know you've been busy hating me these past several years, but try to remember the guy you've known all your life. The one you can trust.”
“Okay."
I lean into her ear. "In the meantime, don't do anything I wouldn't do, little wife."
"I'm really proud of you, Bug. You've created something awesome here in our hometown. I knew you'd always do something super cool and completely you."
"You did?"
“You were always a go-getter, even when you were a little pipsqueak. I admired that about you."
“Thank you, Atlas, you have no idea how much that means to me."
"I'm serious. We may have been drunk when we said those vows, but I still said them, which means I take them seriously. While we're married, you won't hear or see me with another woman."
"Henley," I growl.
"What?"
"Have you been walking around all day without underwear on?"
“Nope. Something told me I wouldn't need them, so I left them in my bathroom."
Oh, fuck.
"I never told anyone, but after one night of you babbling on and on about it, I bought and read the whole series."
"You did?"
"Yup, so that I'd have some knowledge of the world you loved so much.”
“Why didn't you ever tell me?"
"No need. I loved listening to your animated retellings of your favorite book moments."
And even more grateful that after that week-end, the woman who sets my soul on fire fell in love with me somewhere between the touchdowns and tinsel.
“I'm so hopelessly in love with you, Atlas Grant."
"You," he pauses and points to me, and then taps his chest repeatedly like he can't believe what I'm saying, "love me?"
I can't help but giggle because he's so fucking adorable. “I love you so much. I can't lose you again."
What to expect:
*Football romance
*Brother’s best friend
*Accidental marriage
*Her childhood crush
*Possessive/obsessed MMC
*Banter
*Praise
*Jersey moment
*Meddling mothers
*Found family
*Festive holiday vibes
Content warning: parental abandonment
Thank you to LA Shaw and The Author Agency for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Henley Myers has avoided pro football player Atlas Grant ever since she told him how she felt about him at 18 and he rejected her. But when they end up at a friend’s joint bachelor/bachelorette party in Vegas, not everything stays in Vegas. Oops. 🙊 Atlas is known as the charming, life-of-the-party, playboy but he wants a second chance with Henley, and sets out to prove it. He isn’t worried about their accidental marriage—he’ll just wait for Henley to catch up. He thinks she’s adorable, loves her smart mouth, wants to give her everything, and convince her that he’s worth it. 🥹 She’s the woman of his dreams. When he calls her ‘little wife’ and puts her in his phone as ‘wifey’? Gah. 🫠 He calls her ‘baby’ and my heart melted. He runs her a bath, he’s a protector, he admires her. He’s all in but she holds back because she believes men always leave, like her dad, and Atlas is so patient with her.
You can’t help but fall in love with Atlas—he’s close with his parents and loves his mom/wants what his parents have. Atlas worships Henley (in ALL of the ways), and there may be some creative use of🎄tinsel and bows. 🤭 They also give new meaning to ‘ringing in the new year’. Slutty gold chain (but make it one with his grandparents’ wedding rings on it). ✔️ He cooks for her. ✔️ He likes to eat. ✔️ He remembers (and buys) all of her favorite things. ✔️ And the card he writes her—My heart couldn’t take it. 🥹I truly connected with the characters, and loved watching the relationship unfold. There is great chemistry, awesome banter, festive holiday vibes, and wonderful found family. We also get flirting, texts, a sassy FMC, and a swoony, possessive, thoughtful MMC. The ending—perfection. The epilogue—chef’s kiss. 🤌🏻 I also read the ARC of Blinding Lights, the connected book by Katherine Jay where we first meet Atlas and Henley. I love how the two books weave together both stories. 👏🏻
❤️ ‘Ma Cherie’
❤️ She decorates his apartment for Christmas and it makes him so happy!
❤️ Eyes 👀 on me
❤️ He talks her through it
Favorite quotes:
"Will you save me a dance?" he asks.
I lean in closer, letting my lips brush ever so slightly against the shell of his ear. “Not sure
you could handle just one dance."
"Bet," he yells out after me, and I raise my middle finger teasingly behind me.
"Why are you not freaking the fuck out right now?"
"It's kind of hard to when you're standing here, yelling at me, all naked and looking sexy as sin. Pretty damn proud to call you my wife," he confesses, and I can practically feel the way his stare devours me. No! Do not get distracted.
"Hey, it'll all be okay, Bug."
Before I can digest him using my childhood nickname, a name I haven't heard in years, I feel his lips brush lightly over mine. My body instantly melts at the feel of them.
"Take a deep breath. I know you've been busy hating me these past several years, but try to remember the guy you've known all your life. The one you can trust.”
“Okay."
I lean into her ear. "In the meantime, don't do anything I wouldn't do, little wife."
"I'm really proud of you, Bug. You've created something awesome here in our hometown. I knew you'd always do something super cool and completely you."
"You did?"
“You were always a go-getter, even when you were a little pipsqueak. I admired that about you."
“Thank you, Atlas, you have no idea how much that means to me."
"I'm serious. We may have been drunk when we said those vows, but I still said them, which means I take them seriously. While we're married, you won't hear or see me with another woman."
"Henley," I growl.
"What?"
"Have you been walking around all day without underwear on?"
“Nope. Something told me I wouldn't need them, so I left them in my bathroom."
Oh, fuck.
"I never told anyone, but after one night of you babbling on and on about it, I bought and read the whole series."
"You did?"
"Yup, so that I'd have some knowledge of the world you loved so much.”
“Why didn't you ever tell me?"
"No need. I loved listening to your animated retellings of your favorite book moments."
And even more grateful that after that week-end, the woman who sets my soul on fire fell in love with me somewhere between the touchdowns and tinsel.
“I'm so hopelessly in love with you, Atlas Grant."
"You," he pauses and points to me, and then taps his chest repeatedly like he can't believe what I'm saying, "love me?"
I can't help but giggle because he's so fucking adorable. “I love you so much. I can't lose you again."
What to expect:
*Football romance
*Brother’s best friend
*Accidental marriage
*Her childhood crush
*Possessive/obsessed MMC
*Banter
*Praise
*Jersey moment
*Meddling mothers
*Found family
*Festive holiday vibes
Content warning: parental abandonment
Thank you to LA Shaw and The Author Agency for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2026
💍 What Happens in Vegas… Might Just Be Forever! 🏈❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 Chili Peppers
An accidental Vegas wedding with your childhood crush who also happens to be your brother's best friend?! SIGN ME UP! 💍🏈❤️ Touchdown & Tinsel by L.A. Shaw was such a fun, flirty, and surprisingly heartfelt romance, and I absolutely loved Atlas and Henley together!
Henley Myers has loved Atlas Grant for as long as she can remember. He was her older brother's best friend, her protector, and the boy she imagined spending forever with. Unfortunately, when she finally found the courage to tell him how she felt, he broke her heart. Years later, she's still determined to keep her distance, but a joint bachelor and bachelorette weekend in Las Vegas makes avoiding him pretty much impossible.
And Henley has every intention of showing Atlas exactly what he's been missing! 😂
I absolutely adored Henley! She's feisty, independent, a little stubborn, and has no problem speaking her mind. I especially loved her friendship with Lily and the fact that they own a bookstore together. 📚💕 But beneath all that sass is a woman who's afraid of having her heart broken again. Between Atlas's rejection and the hurt she carries from her father's abandonment, trusting someone to stay isn't easy for her.
Then there's Atlas Grant. OH, THIS MAN! 🥹❤️
He's a charming, confident professional football player who knows exactly what he wants, and this time, he's determined not to let Henley slip away. When one wild night of drinking and blackjack ends with wedding rings on their fingers, Atlas is surprisingly comfortable with their new marital status.
Henley, on the other hand? NOT SO MUCH! 😂
Their banter was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. The bickering, flirting, teasing texts, and all that unresolved tension had me smiling constantly. And Atlas calling her his "little wife"? I was done for!
But what really made me fall for Atlas was how thoughtful he was. This man remembers Henley's favorite things, cooks for her, supports her dreams, and genuinely pays attention to what makes her happy. The fact that he once read an entire book series just because she loved talking about it?! As a book lover, THAT got me! 🥹📚
I also loved the sentimental side of Atlas, especially his connection to his family and the significance of his grandparents' wedding rings. He might be charming and playful, but when it comes to Henley, his feelings are anything but casual.
And the chemistry between these two? WHEW! 🔥 Their attraction was undeniable, but I loved that their relationship was about more than physical chemistry. Atlas had to show Henley that he wasn't the same man who had hurt her years ago, and that she could trust him with her heart.
Watching Henley slowly let herself believe in their future was so rewarding. I appreciated that Atlas didn't expect her to forget the past simply because he was ready to move forward. He showed her through his actions that he wanted something real and lasting.
The holiday atmosphere was another wonderful bonus! Between the Christmas decorations, meddling mothers, supportive friendships, and all those sweet family moments, this story had such a warm, festive feel. I especially loved the connections to Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay and getting to experience another side of this wonderful group of characters.
And the ending and epilogue? SO GOOD! ❤️
Five stars! ⭐️ Touchdown & Tinsel gave me everything I wanted in a brother's-best-friend romance: a sassy heroine, a completely smitten football player, fantastic banter, plenty of spice, and a second chance that felt genuinely earned.
Atlas and Henley were such a fun couple, but it was watching him prove that he was ready to stay, and watching her finally believe him, that made their story so special.
If you love accidental marriages, childhood crushes, protective heroes, holiday romance, and a man who's absolutely obsessed with his wife, you need this one on your TBR! 🎄💍❤️
Thank you to L.A. Shaw and The Author Agency for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 Chili Peppers
An accidental Vegas wedding with your childhood crush who also happens to be your brother's best friend?! SIGN ME UP! 💍🏈❤️ Touchdown & Tinsel by L.A. Shaw was such a fun, flirty, and surprisingly heartfelt romance, and I absolutely loved Atlas and Henley together!
Henley Myers has loved Atlas Grant for as long as she can remember. He was her older brother's best friend, her protector, and the boy she imagined spending forever with. Unfortunately, when she finally found the courage to tell him how she felt, he broke her heart. Years later, she's still determined to keep her distance, but a joint bachelor and bachelorette weekend in Las Vegas makes avoiding him pretty much impossible.
And Henley has every intention of showing Atlas exactly what he's been missing! 😂
I absolutely adored Henley! She's feisty, independent, a little stubborn, and has no problem speaking her mind. I especially loved her friendship with Lily and the fact that they own a bookstore together. 📚💕 But beneath all that sass is a woman who's afraid of having her heart broken again. Between Atlas's rejection and the hurt she carries from her father's abandonment, trusting someone to stay isn't easy for her.
Then there's Atlas Grant. OH, THIS MAN! 🥹❤️
He's a charming, confident professional football player who knows exactly what he wants, and this time, he's determined not to let Henley slip away. When one wild night of drinking and blackjack ends with wedding rings on their fingers, Atlas is surprisingly comfortable with their new marital status.
Henley, on the other hand? NOT SO MUCH! 😂
Their banter was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. The bickering, flirting, teasing texts, and all that unresolved tension had me smiling constantly. And Atlas calling her his "little wife"? I was done for!
But what really made me fall for Atlas was how thoughtful he was. This man remembers Henley's favorite things, cooks for her, supports her dreams, and genuinely pays attention to what makes her happy. The fact that he once read an entire book series just because she loved talking about it?! As a book lover, THAT got me! 🥹📚
I also loved the sentimental side of Atlas, especially his connection to his family and the significance of his grandparents' wedding rings. He might be charming and playful, but when it comes to Henley, his feelings are anything but casual.
And the chemistry between these two? WHEW! 🔥 Their attraction was undeniable, but I loved that their relationship was about more than physical chemistry. Atlas had to show Henley that he wasn't the same man who had hurt her years ago, and that she could trust him with her heart.
Watching Henley slowly let herself believe in their future was so rewarding. I appreciated that Atlas didn't expect her to forget the past simply because he was ready to move forward. He showed her through his actions that he wanted something real and lasting.
The holiday atmosphere was another wonderful bonus! Between the Christmas decorations, meddling mothers, supportive friendships, and all those sweet family moments, this story had such a warm, festive feel. I especially loved the connections to Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay and getting to experience another side of this wonderful group of characters.
And the ending and epilogue? SO GOOD! ❤️
Five stars! ⭐️ Touchdown & Tinsel gave me everything I wanted in a brother's-best-friend romance: a sassy heroine, a completely smitten football player, fantastic banter, plenty of spice, and a second chance that felt genuinely earned.
Atlas and Henley were such a fun couple, but it was watching him prove that he was ready to stay, and watching her finally believe him, that made their story so special.
If you love accidental marriages, childhood crushes, protective heroes, holiday romance, and a man who's absolutely obsessed with his wife, you need this one on your TBR! 🎄💍❤️
Thank you to L.A. Shaw and The Author Agency for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 25, 2026
Touchdowns & Tinsel by L.A. Shaw
4.5 stars | 2 spice
Tropes:
• Brother’s best friend • Childhood crush
• Accidental marriage • Drunken Vegas wedding
• Football romance
• Obsessed/down-bad MMC
• Sassy FMC
• Holiday romance
Thank you so much to L.A. Shaw for the ARC! I am so incredibly blessed and thankful to receive this ARC. As always, these are my honest thoughts and genuine opinions.
This is the first book in L.A. Shaw’s brand-new sports romance series, New Orleans Phantoms, and I am already looking forward to seeing where this interconnected series goes. It was quick, fun, full of great banter, plenty of chemistry, some steam, and ends with the best HEA and set up for whats next for this series!
The accidental drunken Vegas wedding was the perfect dose of chaos, and I loved every single second of the book before, during and after the wedding.
This was such a fun, easy, feel-good romance from beginning to end. L.A. Shaw hooked me immediately, and I was completely invested in Atlas and Henley’s story the entire way through. There was great banter, amazing chemistry, plenty of steam, all the feels, and of course, the best HEA!
Henley absolutely stole my heart. She was funny, sassy, independent, and had just the right amount of attitude. She definitely wasn’t going to make things easy for Atlas, especially after all the unresolved feelings and heartbreak between them. I loved watching her slowly let those walls come down and finally give their relationship a real chance.
And then there’s ATLAS GRANT. That man. A football superstar, her brother’s best friend, and the childhood crush she’s spent years trying to forget. Watching all those buried feelings come rushing back when they were thrown together in Vegas was EVERYTHING. The tension between these two had me eating up every page, but Atlas being completely and utterly DOWN BAD for Henley was easily one of my favorite parts.
Atlas, you absolute dream of a man. I will be thinking about you for a LONG time.
Touchdowns & Tinsel was such an addictive, swoony, spicy read!! I was smiling, swooning, and practically screaming at these two to just give in already!! The brother’s best friend trope, childhood crush, second chances, forced proximity, and a little Vegas chaos?! YES PLEASE!!
I couldn’t get enough of Henley and Atlas, and I honestly didn’t want their story to end!! Another five-star read that had me completely obsessed!!
4.5 stars | 2 spice
Tropes:
• Brother’s best friend • Childhood crush
• Accidental marriage • Drunken Vegas wedding
• Football romance
• Obsessed/down-bad MMC
• Sassy FMC
• Holiday romance
Thank you so much to L.A. Shaw for the ARC! I am so incredibly blessed and thankful to receive this ARC. As always, these are my honest thoughts and genuine opinions.
This is the first book in L.A. Shaw’s brand-new sports romance series, New Orleans Phantoms, and I am already looking forward to seeing where this interconnected series goes. It was quick, fun, full of great banter, plenty of chemistry, some steam, and ends with the best HEA and set up for whats next for this series!
The accidental drunken Vegas wedding was the perfect dose of chaos, and I loved every single second of the book before, during and after the wedding.
This was such a fun, easy, feel-good romance from beginning to end. L.A. Shaw hooked me immediately, and I was completely invested in Atlas and Henley’s story the entire way through. There was great banter, amazing chemistry, plenty of steam, all the feels, and of course, the best HEA!
Henley absolutely stole my heart. She was funny, sassy, independent, and had just the right amount of attitude. She definitely wasn’t going to make things easy for Atlas, especially after all the unresolved feelings and heartbreak between them. I loved watching her slowly let those walls come down and finally give their relationship a real chance.
And then there’s ATLAS GRANT. That man. A football superstar, her brother’s best friend, and the childhood crush she’s spent years trying to forget. Watching all those buried feelings come rushing back when they were thrown together in Vegas was EVERYTHING. The tension between these two had me eating up every page, but Atlas being completely and utterly DOWN BAD for Henley was easily one of my favorite parts.
Atlas, you absolute dream of a man. I will be thinking about you for a LONG time.
Touchdowns & Tinsel was such an addictive, swoony, spicy read!! I was smiling, swooning, and practically screaming at these two to just give in already!! The brother’s best friend trope, childhood crush, second chances, forced proximity, and a little Vegas chaos?! YES PLEASE!!
I couldn’t get enough of Henley and Atlas, and I honestly didn’t want their story to end!! Another five-star read that had me completely obsessed!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Pro Football Romance
Brother’s Best Friend
Accidental Marriage
Her Childhood Crush
He’s now Obsessed
Wild Weekend in Vegas
Bookstore owner
Wide Receiver MMC
This was such a fun, sweet & spicy, quick read! Henley and Atlas are prefect for each other! Henley grew up spending time with Atlas as her older brothers best friend but as the years past she developed a huge crush on him. In college she finally confessed her feelings only to have Atlas not return them (not knowing he was doing so due to not wanting to hurt her brother)
Years later she’s on her revenge tour of making him “read em and weep” when they all find themselves in Vegas for a mutual friend’s wedding. Atlas has regretted pushing her away for years and now that he’s seen her again he can’t look away. Despite Henley trying to keep up her walls she easily remembers how easy it is with him. A wild fun night with black jack and drinks flowing ends up with them waking up to learn they are now Mr. & Mrs. Grant. Not wanting to bring unwanted attention to Henley they agree to keep it a secret so it doesn’t leak to the press. Atlas sees his opportunity to truly show her how they belong together and begs her to give them a real chance.
While juggling his pro career he continues to show up and show her how much she means to him. This man was down bad and I loved it! Their chemistry is undeniably hot! The spice was perfect!! I loved how sassy and funny Henley is and Atlas eats it up too! They bring out the best in each other! Henley is absolutely my kinda girl lover of romance books and football!
I also enjoyed the little nod to his grandparents at the end with the sentimental and full circle moment. I can’t wait to read about Lily (her best friend) and Beckett her older brother!!
This was sweet and fun romance about second chances between two childhood friends who were meant to be!
Thank you so much to L.A. Shaw for the advanced copy!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Pro Football Romance
Brother’s Best Friend
Accidental Marriage
Her Childhood Crush
He’s now Obsessed
Wild Weekend in Vegas
Bookstore owner
Wide Receiver MMC
This was such a fun, sweet & spicy, quick read! Henley and Atlas are prefect for each other! Henley grew up spending time with Atlas as her older brothers best friend but as the years past she developed a huge crush on him. In college she finally confessed her feelings only to have Atlas not return them (not knowing he was doing so due to not wanting to hurt her brother)
Years later she’s on her revenge tour of making him “read em and weep” when they all find themselves in Vegas for a mutual friend’s wedding. Atlas has regretted pushing her away for years and now that he’s seen her again he can’t look away. Despite Henley trying to keep up her walls she easily remembers how easy it is with him. A wild fun night with black jack and drinks flowing ends up with them waking up to learn they are now Mr. & Mrs. Grant. Not wanting to bring unwanted attention to Henley they agree to keep it a secret so it doesn’t leak to the press. Atlas sees his opportunity to truly show her how they belong together and begs her to give them a real chance.
While juggling his pro career he continues to show up and show her how much she means to him. This man was down bad and I loved it! Their chemistry is undeniably hot! The spice was perfect!! I loved how sassy and funny Henley is and Atlas eats it up too! They bring out the best in each other! Henley is absolutely my kinda girl lover of romance books and football!
I also enjoyed the little nod to his grandparents at the end with the sentimental and full circle moment. I can’t wait to read about Lily (her best friend) and Beckett her older brother!!
This was sweet and fun romance about second chances between two childhood friends who were meant to be!
Thank you so much to L.A. Shaw for the advanced copy!
October 24, 2026
He was her brother’s best friend and her very first crush, but just when Henley finally found the courage to confess her feelings, Atlas Grant rejected her, leaving her heartbroken. After years of avoiding him, fate brings them back together in Las Vegas for a joint stag and hen weekend, and Henley has one thing on her mind: revenge. But Sin City has other plans for the pair, and when alcohol, unresolved feelings and unfinished business collide, things have a habit of getting a little out of hand. In this case, that means an unexpected trip down the aisle, followed by a whole lot of regret the morning after!
Touchdowns & Tinsel was my first read from this author, and I really enjoyed it. I loved the way she brought her characters to life, especially her hero. Atlas was such a sweetheart, determined to win Henley back, prove just how much he regretted his past actions and show her that he was worthy of a second chance. He knew he had hurt her and was more than willing to put in the work to make things right. Of course, Henley wasn’t about to make it easy for him, and honestly, who doesn’t love a man who knows how to grovel! The banter between these two was delicious, their chemistry was sizzling, and their dynamic had me smiling throughout. I loved watching Atlas try to break down Henley’s walls and seeing their relationship develop as they navigated their complicated history. The secondary characters were another highlight, particularly their families, who added an extra layer of warmth and charm to the story.
Overall, this was a strong introduction to a new author. If you enjoy sweet and spicy romances with a brother’s-best-friend connection, second chances and an accidental marriage thrown into the mix, Touchdowns & Tinsel is worth checking out. Sometimes you just want a fun, character-driven romance with good banter, plenty of chemistry and a hero who’s willing to work hard for his happy ending, and this one delivered.
Touchdowns & Tinsel was my first read from this author, and I really enjoyed it. I loved the way she brought her characters to life, especially her hero. Atlas was such a sweetheart, determined to win Henley back, prove just how much he regretted his past actions and show her that he was worthy of a second chance. He knew he had hurt her and was more than willing to put in the work to make things right. Of course, Henley wasn’t about to make it easy for him, and honestly, who doesn’t love a man who knows how to grovel! The banter between these two was delicious, their chemistry was sizzling, and their dynamic had me smiling throughout. I loved watching Atlas try to break down Henley’s walls and seeing their relationship develop as they navigated their complicated history. The secondary characters were another highlight, particularly their families, who added an extra layer of warmth and charm to the story.
Overall, this was a strong introduction to a new author. If you enjoy sweet and spicy romances with a brother’s-best-friend connection, second chances and an accidental marriage thrown into the mix, Touchdowns & Tinsel is worth checking out. Sometimes you just want a fun, character-driven romance with good banter, plenty of chemistry and a hero who’s willing to work hard for his happy ending, and this one delivered.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read'em and Weep! Touchdowns & Tinsel is a Brother's Best Friend, Football romance that includes a few important holidays that sets the mood in Vegas with Halloween and ends with Valentine's Day in New Orleans, Baby! This is the first book in a brand new sports romance series, the New Orleans Phantoms, by L.A. Shaw, that will be a quick, fun book with great banter, some steam, ends with a HEA, plus an epilogue. Is it me, or does our MMC resemble Shemar Moore? Cue The Swoon! Looking forward to more in this interconnectable series by some favored authors.
I would like to sincerely Thank L.A. Shaw for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.
Henley Myers was rejected by her brother's best friend, Atlas Grant, at 18 and ever since she's gone out of her way to avoid him. What makes it easy, is her brother and Atlas are Professional Football Players that play for different teams and have seemed to have drifted apart.
Atlas always knew that Henley crushed on him and rejecting her 9 years ago over his friendship with her brother was one of the hardest things he's ever done. He's now a wide receiver for the New Orleans Phantoms and Atlas gets to see her all grown up at a mutual friends combined Bachelor & Bachelorette's party in Vegas.
Henley knows she will be seeing Atlas and she's planned her wardrobe accordingly, "Read'em and Weep is her game plan but, she never expected to wake up next to him and with matching wedding rings after a fun night of high roller gambling.
Atlas has become obsessed with the sassy, smartass and doesn't want to let her go. He asks for more time to be with her and hopes that he can convince her to give forever a go with no take backs.
I would like to sincerely Thank L.A. Shaw for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.
Henley Myers was rejected by her brother's best friend, Atlas Grant, at 18 and ever since she's gone out of her way to avoid him. What makes it easy, is her brother and Atlas are Professional Football Players that play for different teams and have seemed to have drifted apart.
Atlas always knew that Henley crushed on him and rejecting her 9 years ago over his friendship with her brother was one of the hardest things he's ever done. He's now a wide receiver for the New Orleans Phantoms and Atlas gets to see her all grown up at a mutual friends combined Bachelor & Bachelorette's party in Vegas.
Henley knows she will be seeing Atlas and she's planned her wardrobe accordingly, "Read'em and Weep is her game plan but, she never expected to wake up next to him and with matching wedding rings after a fun night of high roller gambling.
Atlas has become obsessed with the sassy, smartass and doesn't want to let her go. He asks for more time to be with her and hopes that he can convince her to give forever a go with no take backs.
November 2, 2026
Okay, but WHY ARE MEN LIKE ATLAS ONLY FOUND IN BOOKS?! Because I am OBSESSED. 😭❤️
We have childhood crushes, brother’s best friend, a second-chance romance, and an ACCIDENTAL VEGAS WEDDING?! I was hooked from the very beginning!
Henley was such a fun FMC! She’s witty, strong, full of personality, and has the biggest heart. Watching her navigate her feelings for the one man who once broke her heart had me rooting for her SO hard. She deserves a love that never makes her question her worth, and seeing her finally get that? EVERYTHING.
And ATLAS. Oh, this man. 🥵 A football star who goes from being her heartbreak to becoming the man determined to give her the world? SIGN ME UP. I loved how intentional he was with Henley. He didn't just tell her how he felt, he showed her over and over again. The devotion, the protectiveness, the way he fell SO hard for her... I was GONE. This man knew what he wanted, and he was ready to prove it.
The Vegas shenanigans that landed them married had me smiling, and I absolutely loved watching their relationship develop from there. Beneath all the fun, flirting, and swoony moments, there was also so much heart. Seeing Atlas help Henley work through her past and remind her that she deserves someone who chooses her and stays was incredibly sweet.
Honestly, this book was such a feel-good romance! I was giggling, swooning, smiling like an idiot, and completely invested in these two. Atlas is the definition of a man who falls HARD, and I will never get tired of that.
If you love childhood crushes, brother's best friend, accidental marriage, a down-bad MMC, and a whole lot of second-chance swoon, RUN AND ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR!
ATLAS, THE MAN YOU ARE. 😭❤️
We have childhood crushes, brother’s best friend, a second-chance romance, and an ACCIDENTAL VEGAS WEDDING?! I was hooked from the very beginning!
Henley was such a fun FMC! She’s witty, strong, full of personality, and has the biggest heart. Watching her navigate her feelings for the one man who once broke her heart had me rooting for her SO hard. She deserves a love that never makes her question her worth, and seeing her finally get that? EVERYTHING.
And ATLAS. Oh, this man. 🥵 A football star who goes from being her heartbreak to becoming the man determined to give her the world? SIGN ME UP. I loved how intentional he was with Henley. He didn't just tell her how he felt, he showed her over and over again. The devotion, the protectiveness, the way he fell SO hard for her... I was GONE. This man knew what he wanted, and he was ready to prove it.
The Vegas shenanigans that landed them married had me smiling, and I absolutely loved watching their relationship develop from there. Beneath all the fun, flirting, and swoony moments, there was also so much heart. Seeing Atlas help Henley work through her past and remind her that she deserves someone who chooses her and stays was incredibly sweet.
Honestly, this book was such a feel-good romance! I was giggling, swooning, smiling like an idiot, and completely invested in these two. Atlas is the definition of a man who falls HARD, and I will never get tired of that.
If you love childhood crushes, brother's best friend, accidental marriage, a down-bad MMC, and a whole lot of second-chance swoon, RUN AND ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR!
ATLAS, THE MAN YOU ARE. 😭❤️
October 13, 2026
🏈Pro Football Romance
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
🏈Accidental Marriage
✨Her Childhood Crush
🏈But now he’s obsessed
✨ Green Flag MMC
This book gave me ALL the feels! I was giddy, smiling so hard the entire time I was reading. This is what holiday romance dreams are made of!
The fact that Atlas was Henley’s childhood crush was already enough to have me invested, but finding out just how DOWN BAD this man was for her?! I WAS GONE. Atlas had me swooning from start to finish, and I genuinely don’t have enough words to explain how much I adore him. The way he went out of his way to win Henley over, the effort he put into showing her how much she meant to him, and the way he was absolutely obsessed with her?! THAT’S MY MAN. The green flags were FLAGGING, and I ate up every single second of it!
And can we talk about a Vegas wedding?! What started as a chaotic, accidental marriage turned into something that had me SWOONING. There’s just something about a man getting a second chance to make the girl he wants fall in love with him, and Atlas absolutely understood the assignment. The way he showed up for Henley and made it clear that he wanted HER? My heart couldn’t take it.
This story had me kicking my feet, giggling, and falling head over heels for these characters. If you love a childhood crush turned obsessed MMC, brother’s best friend romance, and a little accidental-marriage chaos wrapped up in holiday magic, ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR TBR IMMEDIATELY!
Atlas, you absolute dream of a man. I will be thinking about you for a LONG time
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
🏈Accidental Marriage
✨Her Childhood Crush
🏈But now he’s obsessed
✨ Green Flag MMC
This book gave me ALL the feels! I was giddy, smiling so hard the entire time I was reading. This is what holiday romance dreams are made of!
The fact that Atlas was Henley’s childhood crush was already enough to have me invested, but finding out just how DOWN BAD this man was for her?! I WAS GONE. Atlas had me swooning from start to finish, and I genuinely don’t have enough words to explain how much I adore him. The way he went out of his way to win Henley over, the effort he put into showing her how much she meant to him, and the way he was absolutely obsessed with her?! THAT’S MY MAN. The green flags were FLAGGING, and I ate up every single second of it!
And can we talk about a Vegas wedding?! What started as a chaotic, accidental marriage turned into something that had me SWOONING. There’s just something about a man getting a second chance to make the girl he wants fall in love with him, and Atlas absolutely understood the assignment. The way he showed up for Henley and made it clear that he wanted HER? My heart couldn’t take it.
This story had me kicking my feet, giggling, and falling head over heels for these characters. If you love a childhood crush turned obsessed MMC, brother’s best friend romance, and a little accidental-marriage chaos wrapped up in holiday magic, ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR TBR IMMEDIATELY!
Atlas, you absolute dream of a man. I will be thinking about you for a LONG time
November 9, 2026
What a cute Vegas wedding romance! Not only does it make finally getting your brother’s best friend wildly adorable and sexy, it uses tinsel to steamy perfection, has meddling and far too wise but extra cute moms, and the way Atlas makes a point of using the words my wife as frequently as possible will have your heart tumbling and your temperature rising.
I absolutely loved this and could not put it down! It’s fun right from the start, I am all about the tables are turned feel to it, with Henley wanting Atlas to rue the day he turned her down when she was eighteen and totally succeeding just by hitting Vegas and being her sexy vivacious little self. I found it even hotter and way more sweet when you find out that yes she succeeded in Vegas but Atlas has been regretting it every day since she left, sidenote this is why brother’s are dumb, and for him waking up married feels like the best thing he’s every done, and the way he does everything he can to keep their marriage under wraps to protect her from the media and to give her time is dreamy. There’s romance, Henley and Atlas’s moms have you cackling with how sneaky they think they are, shocker they’re totally not, with all their little remarks about marriage and babies and how great Henley is and what a wonderful dad Atlas would be, these two have cornered the market on sexy banter and singeing chemistry, and Atlas is remarkably good at saying the most heart stopping things to Henley at exactly the right time. This is just enjoyable from start to finish and all around absolutely wonderful.
I absolutely loved this and could not put it down! It’s fun right from the start, I am all about the tables are turned feel to it, with Henley wanting Atlas to rue the day he turned her down when she was eighteen and totally succeeding just by hitting Vegas and being her sexy vivacious little self. I found it even hotter and way more sweet when you find out that yes she succeeded in Vegas but Atlas has been regretting it every day since she left, sidenote this is why brother’s are dumb, and for him waking up married feels like the best thing he’s every done, and the way he does everything he can to keep their marriage under wraps to protect her from the media and to give her time is dreamy. There’s romance, Henley and Atlas’s moms have you cackling with how sneaky they think they are, shocker they’re totally not, with all their little remarks about marriage and babies and how great Henley is and what a wonderful dad Atlas would be, these two have cornered the market on sexy banter and singeing chemistry, and Atlas is remarkably good at saying the most heart stopping things to Henley at exactly the right time. This is just enjoyable from start to finish and all around absolutely wonderful.
October 22, 2026
🏈🎄❤️
OMG!! Henley and Atlas!! 😍🥹❤️ I seriously couldn’t get enough of these two!! The chemistry, the tension, the heartbreak, the banter, EVERYTHING!! I was absolutely hooked!!
Henley has loved Atlas for practically her entire life, and the fact that he was her older brother’s best friend and the one person she always thought would protect her heart, only for him to be the one to break it?! UGH!! 💔😭 My heart absolutely hurt for her!!
And ATLAS GRANT!! 🥵🔥 That man!! A football superstar, her brother’s best friend, and the guy she’s spent years trying to forget!! I loved watching all those buried feelings come rushing back when they were forced together in Vegas!! The tension between them was EVERYTHING!! 😍
And can we talk about Henley?! I absolutely loved her!! She wasn’t about to make things easy for the man who broke her heart, and I was SO here for it!! 😂❤️ The push and pull, the unresolved feelings, and that undeniable attraction had me absolutely eating up every single page!!
The brother’s best friend trope, childhood crush, second chances, forced proximity, and a little Vegas chaos?! YES PLEASE!! 🙌🔥
Touchdowns & Tinsel was such an addictive, swoony, spicy read!! I was smiling, swooning, and practically screaming at these two to just give in already!! 😂🥰
I couldn’t get enough of Henley and Atlas, and I honestly didn’t want their story to end!! Another five-star read that had me completely obsessed!! ❤️🏈🎄
OMG!! Henley and Atlas!! 😍🥹❤️ I seriously couldn’t get enough of these two!! The chemistry, the tension, the heartbreak, the banter, EVERYTHING!! I was absolutely hooked!!
Henley has loved Atlas for practically her entire life, and the fact that he was her older brother’s best friend and the one person she always thought would protect her heart, only for him to be the one to break it?! UGH!! 💔😭 My heart absolutely hurt for her!!
And ATLAS GRANT!! 🥵🔥 That man!! A football superstar, her brother’s best friend, and the guy she’s spent years trying to forget!! I loved watching all those buried feelings come rushing back when they were forced together in Vegas!! The tension between them was EVERYTHING!! 😍
And can we talk about Henley?! I absolutely loved her!! She wasn’t about to make things easy for the man who broke her heart, and I was SO here for it!! 😂❤️ The push and pull, the unresolved feelings, and that undeniable attraction had me absolutely eating up every single page!!
The brother’s best friend trope, childhood crush, second chances, forced proximity, and a little Vegas chaos?! YES PLEASE!! 🙌🔥
Touchdowns & Tinsel was such an addictive, swoony, spicy read!! I was smiling, swooning, and practically screaming at these two to just give in already!! 😂🥰
I couldn’t get enough of Henley and Atlas, and I honestly didn’t want their story to end!! Another five-star read that had me completely obsessed!! ❤️🏈🎄
October 26, 2026
This was my first book by this author and I devoured it in one sitting. I enjoyed the characters and the story so much. Henley and Atlas were great characters and you could not help but root for them to finally get it together. Henley and Atlas have known each other for a long time. They all went to school together and Henley had a crush on Atlas growing up. The one time she finally told her truth he shut her down. She did not get over that or her love for him. They are thrown back into each others orbit through a wedding and all the events leading up to the wedding. You know that old saying what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas well it did not really stay in Vegas. They came out of it married. Now they have to navigate what that means for them. They decide to stay married to not bring attention to it but ultimately they find that they don't know if they can seperate. This is such a sweet little story of finding love and figuring out if it is worth keeping. Let's be honest love is always worth keeping. I loved that the parents of both parties knew the secret all along but let them finally tell them in their own time. I loved that Henley knew what she wanted all along and she finally got what she wanted even though they had to work at it. This book was so much fun to read and the best part is her brother also gets a book based in this timeline written by a different author. So if you also want to get the brothers story I would recommend reading that book as well.
October 31, 2026
Atlas and Henley have known each other since they were kids & Henley had the biggest crush on Atlas growing up. When she was old enough, she took a shot and expressed how she felt but he shut her down. Since then, she’s tried to avoid seeing him. But when two of their friends are getting married and the bachelor/bachelorette party is in Vegas, there’s no where to hide. One thing leads to another and these two end up getting married in Vegas. To avoid any more media attention, they decide to wait to sign the annulment papers. But in the meantime, Atlas is going to use this time to show Henley is in it for the long haul.
Theres so much history between these two! & with not seeing each other for so many years, that chemistry reignites right when they see each other again!
Atlas was trying not to go against Henley’s brother by saying no, but has always regretted that decision. With her father leaving when she was younger, she has trouble trusting people and believing in love. Atlas had his work cut out for him, but he was willing to put in the work to prove to Henley he wants her.
Henley sure tried to make her believe her feelings weren’t that strong for Atlas, but they just became too hard to ignore!
The book, Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay, which is about Henley’s brother Beckett and her best friend Lily, was released at the same time! Love how the storylines in these books overlap with each other! My review for Blinding Lights will be posted by the end of the week!
Thank you L.A. Shaw for providing me with an eARC for this book!
Theres so much history between these two! & with not seeing each other for so many years, that chemistry reignites right when they see each other again!
Atlas was trying not to go against Henley’s brother by saying no, but has always regretted that decision. With her father leaving when she was younger, she has trouble trusting people and believing in love. Atlas had his work cut out for him, but he was willing to put in the work to prove to Henley he wants her.
Henley sure tried to make her believe her feelings weren’t that strong for Atlas, but they just became too hard to ignore!
The book, Blinding Lights by Katherine Jay, which is about Henley’s brother Beckett and her best friend Lily, was released at the same time! Love how the storylines in these books overlap with each other! My review for Blinding Lights will be posted by the end of the week!
Thank you L.A. Shaw for providing me with an eARC for this book!
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