What do you think?
Lone Star Rebels #2
Hard Pass
Falling for the one woman who has the power to end my football career was never part of the plan . . .
This was supposed to be Cole Valor’s record-breaking season.
Instead, the star quarterback can’t seem to find his game. Missed throws. Bad reads. And someone is making a fortune betting against him.
When suspicious betting patterns surrounding his performance raise red flags, the NFL assigns its top integrity investigator to determine if its golden boy is the victim . . . or the mastermind.
Dublin Locke has built her career on facts, not feelings. She’s determined to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even if it points back to the man whose kiss she’s never forgotten.
The deeper Dublin digs, the more the evidence points to Cole. Yet he insists on helping her uncover the truth. Is he proving his innocence . . . or trying to throw her off his trail?
Working side by side as the investigation tightens its grip, the line between professional and personal begins to blur—and every stolen kiss pushes them further over a line neither of them can afford to cross.
Because every instinct tells Dublin to keep her distance.
But the more she falls for him, the harder it becomes to know which to believe—the facts . . . or her heart.
sports romance, enemies to lovers, workplace, close proximity, scandal, strong heroine
This was supposed to be Cole Valor’s record-breaking season.
Instead, the star quarterback can’t seem to find his game. Missed throws. Bad reads. And someone is making a fortune betting against him.
When suspicious betting patterns surrounding his performance raise red flags, the NFL assigns its top integrity investigator to determine if its golden boy is the victim . . . or the mastermind.
Dublin Locke has built her career on facts, not feelings. She’s determined to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even if it points back to the man whose kiss she’s never forgotten.
The deeper Dublin digs, the more the evidence points to Cole. Yet he insists on helping her uncover the truth. Is he proving his innocence . . . or trying to throw her off his trail?
Working side by side as the investigation tightens its grip, the line between professional and personal begins to blur—and every stolen kiss pushes them further over a line neither of them can afford to cross.
Because every instinct tells Dublin to keep her distance.
But the more she falls for him, the harder it becomes to know which to believe—the facts . . . or her heart.
sports romance, enemies to lovers, workplace, close proximity, scandal, strong heroine
388 pages, Paperback
Published July 30, 2026
About the author
K. Bromberg
111 books19.6k followersNew York Times Bestselling author K. Bromberg writes contemporary romance novels that make you work to get your happily ever after. She likes to write strong heroines and damaged heroes, who we love to hate but can’t help but love.
Since publishing her first book on a whim in 2013, Kristy has sold over two million copies of her books across twenty different countries and has landed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists over thirty times.
A mom of three, Kristy finds the only thing harder than finishing the book she’s writing is navigating parenthood during the teenage years (send more wine!). She loves dogs, sports, a good book, and is an expert procrastinator. She lives in Southern California with her family.
Social Media Links:
https://facebook.com/AuthorKBromberg
http://pinterest.com/KBrombergWrites/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kbromberg13/
twitter: @KBrombergDriven
www.KBromberg.com
Completed Titles:
Series:
The Driven Series
Driven
Fueled
Crashed
Raced
Aced
The Player Duet
The Player
The Catch
Standalones
UnRaveled
Slow Burn
Sweet Ache
Hard Beat
Down Shift
Sweet Cheeks
Sweet Rivalry (novella)
Faking It
Then You Happened
Flirting with 40
Sweet Regret
Everyday Heroes Series
Cuffed
Combust
Cockpit
Control (novella)
Wicked Ways Duet
Resist
Reveal
The Play Hard Series
Hard to Handle
Hard to Hold
Hard to Score
Hard to Lose
Hard to Love
S.I.N. Series
Last Resort
On One Condition
Final Proposal
The Redemption Series
Until You
Full Throttle Series
Off the Grid
On The Edge
Over The Limit
Out of Control
Tangled Hearts Trilogy
Twisted Knight
Threaded Lies
Twined Fates
Since publishing her first book on a whim in 2013, Kristy has sold over two million copies of her books across twenty different countries and has landed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists over thirty times.
A mom of three, Kristy finds the only thing harder than finishing the book she’s writing is navigating parenthood during the teenage years (send more wine!). She loves dogs, sports, a good book, and is an expert procrastinator. She lives in Southern California with her family.
Social Media Links:
https://facebook.com/AuthorKBromberg
http://pinterest.com/KBrombergWrites/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kbromberg13/
twitter: @KBrombergDriven
www.KBromberg.com
Completed Titles:
Series:
The Driven Series
Driven
Fueled
Crashed
Raced
Aced
The Player Duet
The Player
The Catch
Standalones
UnRaveled
Slow Burn
Sweet Ache
Hard Beat
Down Shift
Sweet Cheeks
Sweet Rivalry (novella)
Faking It
Then You Happened
Flirting with 40
Sweet Regret
Everyday Heroes Series
Cuffed
Combust
Cockpit
Control (novella)
Wicked Ways Duet
Resist
Reveal
The Play Hard Series
Hard to Handle
Hard to Hold
Hard to Score
Hard to Lose
Hard to Love
S.I.N. Series
Last Resort
On One Condition
Final Proposal
The Redemption Series
Until You
Full Throttle Series
Off the Grid
On The Edge
Over The Limit
Out of Control
Tangled Hearts Trilogy
Twisted Knight
Threaded Lies
Twined Fates
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
August 16, 2026
*Enemies to lovers
*Sports
*Forced proximity
*Workplace
*He falls first
*Emotional
Dublin takes a case investigating a player, Cole, for illegal betting but there's unfinished history between them that makes things complicated. Until everything blows up and they become the center of the cyclone. The pressure is high while navigating feelings that make both scared.
Dublin is a strong woman living with all her rules in order to maintain control but willing to stand for Cole when she shouldn't because it would cost her everything.
Cole is a strong man, scarred from his toxic childhood that bothers him until now but when it comes to Dublin he's willing to overcome everything in order to ne with her and make everything right for Dublin.
I loved their relationship. I loved how we read the transformation from both being emotionally unavailable to destroy everything for each other. It was quite frustrating in the beginning, seriously if I had them in front of me I would shake them to make them see clearly. But the banter and the tension is there to make you flash.
This isn't your typical sports story but rather a story with an emotional depth that will make you sniff a little or make your eyes glassy in some points. But the outcome is satisfying and will leave you with a pleasure in your heart.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
*Sports
*Forced proximity
*Workplace
*He falls first
*Emotional
Dublin takes a case investigating a player, Cole, for illegal betting but there's unfinished history between them that makes things complicated. Until everything blows up and they become the center of the cyclone. The pressure is high while navigating feelings that make both scared.
Dublin is a strong woman living with all her rules in order to maintain control but willing to stand for Cole when she shouldn't because it would cost her everything.
Cole is a strong man, scarred from his toxic childhood that bothers him until now but when it comes to Dublin he's willing to overcome everything in order to ne with her and make everything right for Dublin.
I loved their relationship. I loved how we read the transformation from both being emotionally unavailable to destroy everything for each other. It was quite frustrating in the beginning, seriously if I had them in front of me I would shake them to make them see clearly. But the banter and the tension is there to make you flash.
This isn't your typical sports story but rather a story with an emotional depth that will make you sniff a little or make your eyes glassy in some points. But the outcome is satisfying and will leave you with a pleasure in your heart.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
August 29, 2026
This was way too long especially for the lack of plot development. Why do romance authors write their very young characters as if they’re at least 10 years older? Why not just write an older character? This is plagued with far too much internal dialogue and therapy speak. It was redundant and often times dull. There’s nothing inherently wrong with the book. It’s just boring and nothing different. Chances are you’ve read this story so many times already.
August 25, 2026
4🌟 | 3🌶️
A complicated history, undeniable chemistry, and a football investigation made this such a fun read.
I loved the second-chance feel between Dublin and Cole, especially the tension of having her investigate him while neither can quite ignore their history. Their chemistry and banter made it so easy to keep reading.
I really connected with both characters and loved seeing them slowly let their walls down. Cole’s past added depth to his character, while Dublin’s need for control and growing vulnerability made her feel relatable. Their relationship felt strongest in the quieter moments, where they were simply there for each other.
The investigation added an interesting layer and kept the story moving alongside the romance. I would have loved a little more focus on Dublin’s individual journey, but I still really enjoyed watching these two find their way through everything together.
A satisfying, emotional read with plenty of chemistry.
~~~~
A huge thank you to K. Bromberg and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
A complicated history, undeniable chemistry, and a football investigation made this such a fun read.
I loved the second-chance feel between Dublin and Cole, especially the tension of having her investigate him while neither can quite ignore their history. Their chemistry and banter made it so easy to keep reading.
I really connected with both characters and loved seeing them slowly let their walls down. Cole’s past added depth to his character, while Dublin’s need for control and growing vulnerability made her feel relatable. Their relationship felt strongest in the quieter moments, where they were simply there for each other.
The investigation added an interesting layer and kept the story moving alongside the romance. I would have loved a little more focus on Dublin’s individual journey, but I still really enjoyed watching these two find their way through everything together.
A satisfying, emotional read with plenty of chemistry.
~~~~
A huge thank you to K. Bromberg and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
August 29, 2026
4.25 stars.
I am just *loving* K. Bromberg's Lone Star Rebels series. "Hard Pass" is an enemies-to-lovers workplace secret and forbidden romance and is another winner for me! The thing I like best about this book is that the romance between Cole (MMC) and Dublin (FMC) feels earned and natural. It is also quite an emotional story full of heavier plot points that mix in well with the ongoing investigation and mystery of whether or not Cole, the quarterback of the Lone Star Rebels, cheated during his games for betting purposes. Dublin is the one investigating whether or not he did and is aces at her job. Their complicated history with one another adds a layer of tension and pining that feels absent from other stories like this. Seriously, the tension is off the charts! The two of them met five years ago on vacation in Cabo and had a one-night stand. Dublin has since called him "the best kiss ever," so Cole has *that* going for him. Both of them have their own baggage and issues they need to work on, and they seek solace within one another to get to resolutions they desire so they can make a successful pairing, never outright help. Cole is struggling with "the yips" on the field. Little things make him hesitate, making him second-guess himself. Cole's father plays a big role in the football player he is today, but not for the reasons you'd expect. He has endured abuse after abuse at the hands of his dad, creating a massive amount of pressure on him to perform and immense trauma that has stuck with him for years. Dublin has worked her butt off to get to where she is in her career, but now that she has started a secret relationship with Cole, it could all be for naught if they get caught. I loved the vulnerability they both display with one another as their relationship progresses. There are a lot of things K. Bromberg does differently in this book that make it a wholly bingeable and worthwhile read. I love how unique it is at times. I loved the chemistry between the leads, and I really liked the resolutions that happen at the end. This book is also expertly narrated by Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis. I loved the way they played off of one another to bring these characters to life. They each leaned into the frustrations and yearnings and intricacies to give two spectacular audio performances. Great freaking book!
Thank you to K. Bromberg and VPR Audio for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I am just *loving* K. Bromberg's Lone Star Rebels series. "Hard Pass" is an enemies-to-lovers workplace secret and forbidden romance and is another winner for me! The thing I like best about this book is that the romance between Cole (MMC) and Dublin (FMC) feels earned and natural. It is also quite an emotional story full of heavier plot points that mix in well with the ongoing investigation and mystery of whether or not Cole, the quarterback of the Lone Star Rebels, cheated during his games for betting purposes. Dublin is the one investigating whether or not he did and is aces at her job. Their complicated history with one another adds a layer of tension and pining that feels absent from other stories like this. Seriously, the tension is off the charts! The two of them met five years ago on vacation in Cabo and had a one-night stand. Dublin has since called him "the best kiss ever," so Cole has *that* going for him. Both of them have their own baggage and issues they need to work on, and they seek solace within one another to get to resolutions they desire so they can make a successful pairing, never outright help. Cole is struggling with "the yips" on the field. Little things make him hesitate, making him second-guess himself. Cole's father plays a big role in the football player he is today, but not for the reasons you'd expect. He has endured abuse after abuse at the hands of his dad, creating a massive amount of pressure on him to perform and immense trauma that has stuck with him for years. Dublin has worked her butt off to get to where she is in her career, but now that she has started a secret relationship with Cole, it could all be for naught if they get caught. I loved the vulnerability they both display with one another as their relationship progresses. There are a lot of things K. Bromberg does differently in this book that make it a wholly bingeable and worthwhile read. I love how unique it is at times. I loved the chemistry between the leads, and I really liked the resolutions that happen at the end. This book is also expertly narrated by Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis. I loved the way they played off of one another to bring these characters to life. They each leaned into the frustrations and yearnings and intricacies to give two spectacular audio performances. Great freaking book!
Thank you to K. Bromberg and VPR Audio for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
August 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐ | 5 🎧 | 3 🌶️
K. Bromberg is so underrated when it comes to sports romance and I just don't get it. If you are big fan of sports romance, would highly recommend checking her books out. Hard Pass is the second book in the Lone Star Rebels series and we are introduced to the MMC, Cole, in The Backup Plan. Ngl, I wasn't the biggest fan of him in that book but I *loved* him in this one. Dare I say, even more than Lucas.
A theme both books share is that the 2 MCs shouldn't be together. I really loved our FMC, Dublin, and her character really resonated with me. With Dublin being an integrity investigator assigned to a case centered on Cole and suspicious NFL betting activity - them being together would basically be career suicide for Dublin. Did I love the forbidden aspect and tension between the two of them? Absolutely. Especially when there was some clearly unfinished business from them almost hooking up years before. If you are familiar with KB's books, there are some similarities between Cole and Hunter from Hard to Handle who is prob my favorite KB MMC so that says a lot.
The audiobook is duet narrated by Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis. I don't believe I've listened to either of them before they did such a great job and the production was really well done.
Thank you so much to K. Bromberg and ValentinePR for a copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
K. Bromberg is so underrated when it comes to sports romance and I just don't get it. If you are big fan of sports romance, would highly recommend checking her books out. Hard Pass is the second book in the Lone Star Rebels series and we are introduced to the MMC, Cole, in The Backup Plan. Ngl, I wasn't the biggest fan of him in that book but I *loved* him in this one. Dare I say, even more than Lucas.
A theme both books share is that the 2 MCs shouldn't be together. I really loved our FMC, Dublin, and her character really resonated with me. With Dublin being an integrity investigator assigned to a case centered on Cole and suspicious NFL betting activity - them being together would basically be career suicide for Dublin. Did I love the forbidden aspect and tension between the two of them? Absolutely. Especially when there was some clearly unfinished business from them almost hooking up years before. If you are familiar with KB's books, there are some similarities between Cole and Hunter from Hard to Handle who is prob my favorite KB MMC so that says a lot.
The audiobook is duet narrated by Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis. I don't believe I've listened to either of them before they did such a great job and the production was really well done.
Thank you so much to K. Bromberg and ValentinePR for a copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2026
ALC
3.5 ⭐
I did enjoy this.. it was cute how they were both struggling with things personally. Yet they were both the person who helped each other regardless of their own troubles. It was sweet. I liked the sports aspect of it, it was subtle but well included. I wouldn’t say it was “enemies” to lovers.. it wasn’t long enough or enough tension for that (for me) but it was a nice easy read. Pretty standard predictable epilogue for a romance, but that’s expected 😂 the narrators were good!
3.5 ⭐
I did enjoy this.. it was cute how they were both struggling with things personally. Yet they were both the person who helped each other regardless of their own troubles. It was sweet. I liked the sports aspect of it, it was subtle but well included. I wouldn’t say it was “enemies” to lovers.. it wasn’t long enough or enough tension for that (for me) but it was a nice easy read. Pretty standard predictable epilogue for a romance, but that’s expected 😂 the narrators were good!
August 13, 2026
Thank you to Valentine PR for the opportunity to read and review. Talk about a sports romance where the sport is actually relevant to the plot! I don’t pick up a lot of football romances but this book makes me want to change that. Cole and Dublin were such good characters and I loved the vulnerability of their romance. The beginning was a bit slow but once you really get into the meat of the story its hard to put down. Two stubborn MCs can make a romance hard to read, but these characters push past that to make an epic romance.
August 27, 2026
I am loving the Lone Star Rebels series by K. Bromberg! She does a great job of truly involving sports in the storyline in a way that ties it well into the romance and other plot points.
Cole Valor is the quarterback for the Lone Star Rebels, but he has been experiencing a tremor in his hand when under significant stress, and it's clearly affecting his game. He's trying to get this under control all while enduring verbal abuse from his father and keeping what he is experiencing close to his chest. Because sharing what's going on with him? That's opens him up for too much vulnerability.
Enter Dublin Locke - she is an investigator for an organization that looks into gambling scandals involving privy to intelligence that can influence patterns on sports bets. She's been called into investigate Cole, given that someone is placing bets on his losing games, and winning consistently. She needs to figure out if he is giving someone insider information, or if something else is going on, and she takes her job seriously. The only problem? She approached Cole in a bar 5 years ago while in Cabo - she's hoping he's forgotten about it so she can do her job as best she can.
The only problem - he hasn't. Their chemistry is palpable and the more Dublin investigates Cole's case, the more her feelings are muddled. Is she able to carry on her investigation unbiased? Can she trust her gut instincts?
This is a sweet, sports, instant attraction yet slow-to-cross-the-line romance. Dublin has her act together, and is a strong, confident, successful woman, much different from Cole's previous love interests. Together they truly form a team - not only on the investigation to clear Cole's name, but also in helping Cole navigate the mental health issues he is experiencing that are appearing to impact his throwing game. I love that they find safety in each other, when they're so used to holding onto everything on their own.
I had the privilege of listening to this book, and the narration by Mariana Olmeda & Christian Alexis was wonderful to bring the characters to life! New narrating book boyfriend unlocked! I highly recommend this book as a listen, and I would totally re-read this as a physical read. I love the depth to the story, so much more than simply a sports romance.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the ALC in exchange for my honest review!
BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:
1) How are Cole and Dublin alike and how are they different? How does this affect their relationship?
2) Discuss the growth of both Cole and Dublin over the course of the book. How do not only each other, but others in the book contribute to this growth?
3) Cole has a complex relationship with his father. How has it affected him both in his career and as a man?
4) Discuss the dynamic between Cole & Tristan. If you were in Cole's situation, what would you do moving forward?
5) Dublin struggles to verbalize how she knows she is truly in love, but then it hits her during a discussion with Willa. Did this resonate with you? How would you define love?
Cole Valor is the quarterback for the Lone Star Rebels, but he has been experiencing a tremor in his hand when under significant stress, and it's clearly affecting his game. He's trying to get this under control all while enduring verbal abuse from his father and keeping what he is experiencing close to his chest. Because sharing what's going on with him? That's opens him up for too much vulnerability.
Enter Dublin Locke - she is an investigator for an organization that looks into gambling scandals involving privy to intelligence that can influence patterns on sports bets. She's been called into investigate Cole, given that someone is placing bets on his losing games, and winning consistently. She needs to figure out if he is giving someone insider information, or if something else is going on, and she takes her job seriously. The only problem? She approached Cole in a bar 5 years ago while in Cabo - she's hoping he's forgotten about it so she can do her job as best she can.
The only problem - he hasn't. Their chemistry is palpable and the more Dublin investigates Cole's case, the more her feelings are muddled. Is she able to carry on her investigation unbiased? Can she trust her gut instincts?
This is a sweet, sports, instant attraction yet slow-to-cross-the-line romance. Dublin has her act together, and is a strong, confident, successful woman, much different from Cole's previous love interests. Together they truly form a team - not only on the investigation to clear Cole's name, but also in helping Cole navigate the mental health issues he is experiencing that are appearing to impact his throwing game. I love that they find safety in each other, when they're so used to holding onto everything on their own.
I had the privilege of listening to this book, and the narration by Mariana Olmeda & Christian Alexis was wonderful to bring the characters to life! New narrating book boyfriend unlocked! I highly recommend this book as a listen, and I would totally re-read this as a physical read. I love the depth to the story, so much more than simply a sports romance.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the ALC in exchange for my honest review!
BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS:
1) How are Cole and Dublin alike and how are they different? How does this affect their relationship?
2) Discuss the growth of both Cole and Dublin over the course of the book. How do not only each other, but others in the book contribute to this growth?
3) Cole has a complex relationship with his father. How has it affected him both in his career and as a man?
4) Discuss the dynamic between Cole & Tristan. If you were in Cole's situation, what would you do moving forward?
5) Dublin struggles to verbalize how she knows she is truly in love, but then it hits her during a discussion with Willa. Did this resonate with you? How would you define love?
August 20, 2026
#Review: *Hard Pass* - K. Bromberg - ARC
4.8/5✨
3/5🌶️
Dublin was that kind of woman who didn't have the most confidence in herself and when one of her friends enticed her into being more bold, she ended up charming a handsome guy in the place were they were partying. But they didn't share anything about themselves, not even their names. The surprise was that they saw each other again five years later after that night, but this time Dublin was in the position of trying to solve a problem Cole had and which interfered with his football game. The tension and attraction was still there, but were they willing to risk it all just to be together?
I was truly capivated by this book even from the start, loving to see that these characters had their own flaws which they were trying to confront. Dublin and Cole had that instant connection, being drawn to each other even from their first interaction. That tension was still very much present even after those five years have past and that forbidden element has made this story so, so easy to be devoured!! I liked that touch of self doubt and how the mental health played a huge role into this story, Cole having some issues which truly needed to be resolved. I liked his vulnerability and how he tried so hard to keep things together on the outside when everything was crumbling down inside him. Dublin was a fresh breath of air for him and it was emotional to see how she offered her support, to help Cole overcoming his anxieties.
Thank youu so much Valentine Pr and K. Bromberg for offering me this stunning e-ARC, which I truly devoured!💗 So, so good!!
✨Tropes
▫️Enemies To Lovers
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Workplace Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Football Player
▫️Close Proximity
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Second Chance
▫️Mental Health Rep
▫️Opposites Attract
4.8/5✨
3/5🌶️
Dublin was that kind of woman who didn't have the most confidence in herself and when one of her friends enticed her into being more bold, she ended up charming a handsome guy in the place were they were partying. But they didn't share anything about themselves, not even their names. The surprise was that they saw each other again five years later after that night, but this time Dublin was in the position of trying to solve a problem Cole had and which interfered with his football game. The tension and attraction was still there, but were they willing to risk it all just to be together?
I was truly capivated by this book even from the start, loving to see that these characters had their own flaws which they were trying to confront. Dublin and Cole had that instant connection, being drawn to each other even from their first interaction. That tension was still very much present even after those five years have past and that forbidden element has made this story so, so easy to be devoured!! I liked that touch of self doubt and how the mental health played a huge role into this story, Cole having some issues which truly needed to be resolved. I liked his vulnerability and how he tried so hard to keep things together on the outside when everything was crumbling down inside him. Dublin was a fresh breath of air for him and it was emotional to see how she offered her support, to help Cole overcoming his anxieties.
Thank youu so much Valentine Pr and K. Bromberg for offering me this stunning e-ARC, which I truly devoured!💗 So, so good!!
✨Tropes
▫️Enemies To Lovers
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Workplace Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Football Player
▫️Close Proximity
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Second Chance
▫️Mental Health Rep
▫️Opposites Attract
August 6, 2026
Cole Valor is usually a great football player until some mistakes have the league sending in an integrity investigator to see what’s going on with him and if he is leaking info to betting sites. That’s how Dublin Locke meets Cole...well, again. They had one night with no names exchanged preciously. Obviously, he is not happy to have her there scrutinizing his every move but maybe if they work together they can find the true reasons on what’s going on and who is truly at fault. Maybe even relive that one nameless night they had together. This is a sports romance with a side of mystery. It’s goes into today’s issues with the ever growing good and bad side sports betting. Told in first person and dual POV.
August 27, 2026
Cole is having a rough season, and to make matters worse, someone is placing bets against him, leaving the league questioning whether he could somehow be involved. Enter Dublin, who is tasked with investigating him. What starts as a complicated situation quickly turns into undeniable chemistry between these two, chemistry they both try to deny at first, but eventually can’t resist.
I was so happy to see Cole finally have someone in his corner, even if it didn’t seem that way at first. He desperately needed someone to believe in his innocence and fight for him, especially since he didn’t have much of a personal support system. I loved watching Dublin become that person for him, even while she was the one investigating him.
Their relationship definitely wasn’t easy, and with their working relationship, they were supposed to be completely off limits. But Cole was determined to make things work. I especially loved seeing him stand up for Dublin and defend her when her integrity was called into question. These two were absolutely made for each other.
Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis were both new narrators to me, and they did a fabulous job bringing Dublin and Cole to life. You could feel every ounce of tension and chemistry between them, which made their relationship feel real.
This was such a sweet and emotional story with plenty of chemistry, and it’s definitely a must listen.
Thank you, K. Bromberg and Valentine PR for the ALC.
I was so happy to see Cole finally have someone in his corner, even if it didn’t seem that way at first. He desperately needed someone to believe in his innocence and fight for him, especially since he didn’t have much of a personal support system. I loved watching Dublin become that person for him, even while she was the one investigating him.
Their relationship definitely wasn’t easy, and with their working relationship, they were supposed to be completely off limits. But Cole was determined to make things work. I especially loved seeing him stand up for Dublin and defend her when her integrity was called into question. These two were absolutely made for each other.
Mariana Olmeda and Christian Alexis were both new narrators to me, and they did a fabulous job bringing Dublin and Cole to life. You could feel every ounce of tension and chemistry between them, which made their relationship feel real.
This was such a sweet and emotional story with plenty of chemistry, and it’s definitely a must listen.
Thank you, K. Bromberg and Valentine PR for the ALC.
September 24, 2026
Dublin, Locke, and Cole have CHEMISTRY! 🔥
This is book 2 in the Lone Star Rebels series, and honestly, I think I loved this one even more than book 1!
I don’t know what Bromberg puts in her books, but she knows how to pull you into the story and make you feel everything. The romance, the tension, and especially the emotional depth of these characters had me completely hooked.
Dublin works so hard to unravel the mystery of Cole, and when he finally opened up, my heart BROKE for him. 😭 I felt all those emotions right along with him.
This book was so much more than I expected, and I loved every minute of it. The chemistry was 🔥 and the emotional moments really got me.
I cannot wait to continue with the Lone Star Rebels series! If you love football romance with plenty of emotion, tension, and chemistry, definitely add this series to your TBR! 🏈📚💕
This is book 2 in the Lone Star Rebels series, and honestly, I think I loved this one even more than book 1!
I don’t know what Bromberg puts in her books, but she knows how to pull you into the story and make you feel everything. The romance, the tension, and especially the emotional depth of these characters had me completely hooked.
Dublin works so hard to unravel the mystery of Cole, and when he finally opened up, my heart BROKE for him. 😭 I felt all those emotions right along with him.
This book was so much more than I expected, and I loved every minute of it. The chemistry was 🔥 and the emotional moments really got me.
I cannot wait to continue with the Lone Star Rebels series! If you love football romance with plenty of emotion, tension, and chemistry, definitely add this series to your TBR! 🏈📚💕
September 27, 2026
“Sometimes love doesn’t arrive logically. Sometimes it’s messy and terrifying and walks straight through fire for you anyway.”
Thoroughly enjoyed this sports romance, with its interesting MCs, sort-of second chance romance, tension, angst, raw emotional upheaval and mature approach to exploring the depth of relationships.
“Don’t look at me like that. I’m not one more thing you have to fix.”
“You’re not a thing I have to fix.”
“Then what am I?”
“Mine.”
Yes, there were many basic errors (where was the proofreader?) and the story could have benefited from a little more editing. I also felt the MCs were depicted as a bit older than the ages cited, but it wasn’t problematic.
And I found it interesting learning about a side of sport that I’d never considered before.
Overall, this took me on an emotional journey and a rewarding one.
Looking forward to book three in this series, especially as my prediction of the protagonist has been confirmed. Yay!
*Note: I was thankful to have received an eARC of this book, but fell behind and only got around to reading it post-release; this review is of the published version.
Thoroughly enjoyed this sports romance, with its interesting MCs, sort-of second chance romance, tension, angst, raw emotional upheaval and mature approach to exploring the depth of relationships.
“Don’t look at me like that. I’m not one more thing you have to fix.”
“You’re not a thing I have to fix.”
“Then what am I?”
“Mine.”
Yes, there were many basic errors (where was the proofreader?) and the story could have benefited from a little more editing. I also felt the MCs were depicted as a bit older than the ages cited, but it wasn’t problematic.
And I found it interesting learning about a side of sport that I’d never considered before.
Overall, this took me on an emotional journey and a rewarding one.
Looking forward to book three in this series, especially as my prediction of the protagonist has been confirmed. Yay!
*Note: I was thankful to have received an eARC of this book, but fell behind and only got around to reading it post-release; this review is of the published version.
August 19, 2026
Hard Pass, book two in the alone Star Rebels series has the perfect amount of tension and romance!
Dublin Locke works for a company that tracks suspicious behavior of athletes in the betting world. Cole Valor is the quarterback for the league’s new expansion team, Lone Star Rebels. They are definitely on opposite sides of the investigation, but are they? They have a past when they met for a one night stand five years earlier. Now, they both want to find out who is setting Cole up to take the fall for suspicious moves on the field that are turning into profitable bets. Can she be impartial after they both develop feelings and can he clear his name? I love the premise of this story and found it very addictive trying to figure out who the culprit was.
Dublin Locke works for a company that tracks suspicious behavior of athletes in the betting world. Cole Valor is the quarterback for the league’s new expansion team, Lone Star Rebels. They are definitely on opposite sides of the investigation, but are they? They have a past when they met for a one night stand five years earlier. Now, they both want to find out who is setting Cole up to take the fall for suspicious moves on the field that are turning into profitable bets. Can she be impartial after they both develop feelings and can he clear his name? I love the premise of this story and found it very addictive trying to figure out who the culprit was.
August 22, 2026
This book broke my heart. I hated his dad so much. Part of me was expecting the ending but I did not want to be right. I was so happy she finally had someone to stand up for her.
August 14, 2026
Reviewed For Saucy Review
On Kinky Korner
What a fantastic read. This book kept me completely engrossed till the very end. I kept thinking everyone was involved and I really didn't see who it was until the very end. The whole plot, characters and out come was brilliant.
I loved Cole and Dublin together, both in the investigation and out of it. Their passion for their jobs and each other in the end was great to read. This is a beautiful romance with just enough spice, fun and the investigation made it have a touch of suspense.
I couldn’t recommend this book enough, its a great edition to this series.
On Kinky Korner
What a fantastic read. This book kept me completely engrossed till the very end. I kept thinking everyone was involved and I really didn't see who it was until the very end. The whole plot, characters and out come was brilliant.
I loved Cole and Dublin together, both in the investigation and out of it. Their passion for their jobs and each other in the end was great to read. This is a beautiful romance with just enough spice, fun and the investigation made it have a touch of suspense.
I couldn’t recommend this book enough, its a great edition to this series.
August 31, 2026
This was just okay. Basically it was boring. Way too much inner dialogue. Very repetitive and not a whole lot happens. I didn't really feel the connection between them and then it was all I Love Yous over and over. And honestly what the hell did she think was gonna happen to her career when she jumped into bed with him the first chance she got.
August 9, 2026
K. Bromberg does it again! Hard Pass had me hooked from the beginning. Give me a cocky NFL quarterback, a strong woman who isn’t afraid to challenge him, some tension, and a relationship they definitely shouldn’t be having, and I’m IN.
I loved Cole and Dublin together. Their chemistry was so good, but what really got me was Cole. There is so much more going on underneath his confident exterior, and as Dublin slowly starts seeing the real him, I fell for him right along with her.
I also loved the mystery surrounding the investigation. With Cole’s career on the line and the evidence stacking up against him, it added just enough drama and suspense to keep me guessing while still giving me all the romance I wanted.
The tension, stolen moments, emotions, and chemistry were everything. Cole Valor definitely earned himself a spot on my favorite K. Bromberg men list.
I loved Cole and Dublin together. Their chemistry was so good, but what really got me was Cole. There is so much more going on underneath his confident exterior, and as Dublin slowly starts seeing the real him, I fell for him right along with her.
I also loved the mystery surrounding the investigation. With Cole’s career on the line and the evidence stacking up against him, it added just enough drama and suspense to keep me guessing while still giving me all the romance I wanted.
The tension, stolen moments, emotions, and chemistry were everything. Cole Valor definitely earned himself a spot on my favorite K. Bromberg men list.
August 26, 2026
🏈 Hard Pass 🏈
(( Spoiler- Free ARC/ ALC Review ))
Title- Hard Pass
Author- K. Bromberg
Genre- Contemporary Sports Romance
Series- Lone Star Rebels Book 2
Trope City-
🏈 Workplace Romance
🏈 Forced Proximity
🏈 Football Romance
🏈 Enemies to Lovers
🏈 Second Chance
I’m not super well versed on football rules and regulations. Having said that, there’s something I love about a football romance! Admitting my lack of knowledge should key you in on the fact that I had no clue there were integrity investigators. Dublin (FMC) is an integrity investigator working for a contracted company who obviously is contracted by the NFL. Cole Valor (MMC) is a quarterback experiencing an incredible season. Its no revealed secret that Cole and Dublin were an almost one night stand. They were a steamy, drunken kiss that nearly went further. Years later, Cole’s incredible season takes an insanely sharp turn. Sharp enough to draw attention from the league. The league sends an integrity investigator to open an investigation in to the cause of this wild change in play and consistency. Behind the scenes, Cole has been in therapy for some yips that present in his hand during stressors and play. The investigator is none other than the hot makeout session, Dublin. She is the picture of professionalism, which does read as rigid and convinced of Cole’s guilt without investigation. After interviews, observations and everything in between, it becomes clear that Cole plays with integrity and the thrown games and betting were not happening by his hand. If he’s not involved, who is? Cole and Dublin end up teaming up to investigate. Their partnership becomes more. But, what does that mean for Dublin’s career? Can either of the MCs get their HEA and clear their names?
Thank you so much Valentine PR and K. Bromberg for sharing this ALC/ ARC with me! 🏈🫶🏻
(( Spoiler- Free ARC/ ALC Review ))
Title- Hard Pass
Author- K. Bromberg
Genre- Contemporary Sports Romance
Series- Lone Star Rebels Book 2
Trope City-
🏈 Workplace Romance
🏈 Forced Proximity
🏈 Football Romance
🏈 Enemies to Lovers
🏈 Second Chance
I’m not super well versed on football rules and regulations. Having said that, there’s something I love about a football romance! Admitting my lack of knowledge should key you in on the fact that I had no clue there were integrity investigators. Dublin (FMC) is an integrity investigator working for a contracted company who obviously is contracted by the NFL. Cole Valor (MMC) is a quarterback experiencing an incredible season. Its no revealed secret that Cole and Dublin were an almost one night stand. They were a steamy, drunken kiss that nearly went further. Years later, Cole’s incredible season takes an insanely sharp turn. Sharp enough to draw attention from the league. The league sends an integrity investigator to open an investigation in to the cause of this wild change in play and consistency. Behind the scenes, Cole has been in therapy for some yips that present in his hand during stressors and play. The investigator is none other than the hot makeout session, Dublin. She is the picture of professionalism, which does read as rigid and convinced of Cole’s guilt without investigation. After interviews, observations and everything in between, it becomes clear that Cole plays with integrity and the thrown games and betting were not happening by his hand. If he’s not involved, who is? Cole and Dublin end up teaming up to investigate. Their partnership becomes more. But, what does that mean for Dublin’s career? Can either of the MCs get their HEA and clear their names?
Thank you so much Valentine PR and K. Bromberg for sharing this ALC/ ARC with me! 🏈🫶🏻
August 17, 2026
K. Bromberg absolutely delivered with Hard Pass! I loved the investigative side of this story, especially watching our female main character dig into the life of a star quarterback to determine whether he was involved in illegal gambling. What starts as an investigation quickly becomes so much more when these two realize they have far more in common than they ever expected.
Between the meetings, the investigation, and all the undeniable chemistry, I loved watching their relationship unfold. They’re both chasing their dreams and trying to figure out what they really want out of life, but somehow, they find comfort in each other and in the simple things, like just spending time together. Those quieter moments ended up being some of my favorites because they made their connection feel so genuine.
And of course, K. Bromberg brings the chemistry, the tension, and the HEAT! She has such a way of bringing every part of the story to life and making it impossible not to get completely invested in the characters.
Even though this book is almost 500 pages, it absolutely did not feel like it. I was captivated from the very beginning and never felt like the story dragged. Between the suspense, romance, emotional depth, and spice, I flew through this one!
Another fantastic read from K. Bromberg, and definitely one I’d recommend to anyone who loves sports romance with a little mystery, plenty of tension, and a whole lot of chemistry!
Between the meetings, the investigation, and all the undeniable chemistry, I loved watching their relationship unfold. They’re both chasing their dreams and trying to figure out what they really want out of life, but somehow, they find comfort in each other and in the simple things, like just spending time together. Those quieter moments ended up being some of my favorites because they made their connection feel so genuine.
And of course, K. Bromberg brings the chemistry, the tension, and the HEAT! She has such a way of bringing every part of the story to life and making it impossible not to get completely invested in the characters.
Even though this book is almost 500 pages, it absolutely did not feel like it. I was captivated from the very beginning and never felt like the story dragged. Between the suspense, romance, emotional depth, and spice, I flew through this one!
Another fantastic read from K. Bromberg, and definitely one I’d recommend to anyone who loves sports romance with a little mystery, plenty of tension, and a whole lot of chemistry!
August 20, 2026
I need to start this review by stating that even though this book is the second of a series it can absolutely be read as a standalone.
Next up, I would 100% recommend reading the first book, The Backup Plan, before this one. You do meet Cole (our MMC) first in this book and you kinda, sorta, detest the guy! He comes across as a moron kind of athlete and human being.
HOWEVER. This book, Hard Pass, DESTROYS any illusions and feelings you had for Cole.
He’s damaged, he’s flawed, he’s human. He’s utterly perfect. I adore him.
I also adore Dublin. She’s hard on herself and is a workaholic but when she meets Cole again (yes, there’s a history there!) her life turns on its head but it’s all for a good reason.
I loved this instalment in the Lone Star Rebels series and believe it’s one of K Bromberg’s best stories. No one writes a damaged sports hero than she does! Excited for what comes next - Camden’s story!!!
Next up, I would 100% recommend reading the first book, The Backup Plan, before this one. You do meet Cole (our MMC) first in this book and you kinda, sorta, detest the guy! He comes across as a moron kind of athlete and human being.
HOWEVER. This book, Hard Pass, DESTROYS any illusions and feelings you had for Cole.
He’s damaged, he’s flawed, he’s human. He’s utterly perfect. I adore him.
I also adore Dublin. She’s hard on herself and is a workaholic but when she meets Cole again (yes, there’s a history there!) her life turns on its head but it’s all for a good reason.
I loved this instalment in the Lone Star Rebels series and believe it’s one of K Bromberg’s best stories. No one writes a damaged sports hero than she does! Excited for what comes next - Camden’s story!!!
August 11, 2026
So this is my first book by K. Bromberg, and honestly… I forgot how much I LOVE sports romance! 🏈😍
Cole and Dublin… OMG, I loved these two! Their chemistry, the tension, the whole situation between them... There literally wasn’t a single page where I felt like nothing was happening.
This book had everything. Emotions, trauma, secrets and so much bonding between the characters. I really loved watching Cole and Dublin get closer while trying to figure out what the hell was actually going on.
And I really loved Bromberg’s writing style! It was so easy to get into this story and just keep reading.
Cole and Dublin… OMG, I loved these two! Their chemistry, the tension, the whole situation between them... There literally wasn’t a single page where I felt like nothing was happening.
This book had everything. Emotions, trauma, secrets and so much bonding between the characters. I really loved watching Cole and Dublin get closer while trying to figure out what the hell was actually going on.
And I really loved Bromberg’s writing style! It was so easy to get into this story and just keep reading.
August 20, 2026
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Cole and Dublin’s story.
Cole is the star quarterback, who is supposed to have a record-breaking season, but he is struggling to find his game, and when suspicious betting patterns raise flags, Dublin is assigned to investigate if he is a victim, or the mastermind.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with tension, secret identities. Intrigue, romance, trust, revelations, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Cole is the star quarterback, who is supposed to have a record-breaking season, but he is struggling to find his game, and when suspicious betting patterns raise flags, Dublin is assigned to investigate if he is a victim, or the mastermind.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with tension, secret identities. Intrigue, romance, trust, revelations, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 26, 2026
Hard Pass
Wow! How hard can playing football for the NFL be? Well you have a dad who does nothing but criticize your every move, and is nagging you at every turn. Then suddenly you have someone investigating to see if you r fixing plays, betting, gambling against winning? Now, how do these things happen, and how can someone prove it's not them. This story is so intense, drama filled and Action based. Amazing story. Loved it.
Wow! How hard can playing football for the NFL be? Well you have a dad who does nothing but criticize your every move, and is nagging you at every turn. Then suddenly you have someone investigating to see if you r fixing plays, betting, gambling against winning? Now, how do these things happen, and how can someone prove it's not them. This story is so intense, drama filled and Action based. Amazing story. Loved it.
August 7, 2026
Ahh! This was amazing! Looking for errors and mistakes is her jam! But what was suppose to be a one night stand and not seeing each other for 5 years changes everything but nothing all at the same time. The was beyond amazing!!! Growing from the past and looking forward to the future. Ah so good and I can’t wait for more from this series!!!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2026
It was my first K. Bromberg novel and I enjoyed it. A one night stand that after many years comes biting in the back because you meet in a complete different environment. Cole is the golden boy quarterback and Dublin is the typical ice queen.
It’s one of my favorite tropes because I love to see the ice slowly melting.
It’s one of my favorite tropes because I love to see the ice slowly melting.
August 25, 2026
Loved it from start all the tropes and all the vibes were a chefs kiss.
August 24, 2026
Investigating the tell!
Wow! The intensity in this book was such a roller coaster and brought all the feels. You root for the truth as much as you root for Cole and Dublin to find their HEA! Kristy never disappoints when she writes and this book has all of her usual style, from the hard emotional parts to the sizzling chemistry of the main characters. You also get characters from previous books popping in to remind you they're still out there! Can't wait for the next book
Wow! The intensity in this book was such a roller coaster and brought all the feels. You root for the truth as much as you root for Cole and Dublin to find their HEA! Kristy never disappoints when she writes and this book has all of her usual style, from the hard emotional parts to the sizzling chemistry of the main characters. You also get characters from previous books popping in to remind you they're still out there! Can't wait for the next book
August 31, 2026
This story definitely didn't go the way I thought it would. However I knew they'd give in and there would be huge consequences. Them remembering each other years later after only meeting/making out once says so much to me. I loved that he was finally opening up and standing up to his dad. She fit in so well with his friends and they were all there for him. Him trying to figure out who was betraying him was smart but also so sad. It wasn't who I thought it would be. It was narrated by new to me narrators and it took me a minute to get used to their voices but they did a great job! This is book 2 in the Lone star rebels series but they can be read as standalones.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2026
*I received this book from the author and VPR as an ARC.* Hard Pass will be available on 8/20!!
Dublin’s job is to catch the betting fraud and Cole’s job as QB1 is to ensure his throws are caught. Cole and Dublin met a few years ago, but they’re willing to ignore that as Dublin is asked to investigate suspicious betting patterns. As they spend more time within close proximity, neither of them is able to ignore their chemistry. When both of their careers are on the line, they have to decide how to face all the noise together.
Professional sports and betting are such relevant topics in today’s world and I really appreciated the storyline of this book. I’m giving this book 3 stars because I found it a bit predictable. I still really enjoyed the story and the spicy scenes :)
Tropes:
Forced proximity (at a workplace)
Forbidden/secret romance
Dublin’s job is to catch the betting fraud and Cole’s job as QB1 is to ensure his throws are caught. Cole and Dublin met a few years ago, but they’re willing to ignore that as Dublin is asked to investigate suspicious betting patterns. As they spend more time within close proximity, neither of them is able to ignore their chemistry. When both of their careers are on the line, they have to decide how to face all the noise together.
Professional sports and betting are such relevant topics in today’s world and I really appreciated the storyline of this book. I’m giving this book 3 stars because I found it a bit predictable. I still really enjoyed the story and the spicy scenes :)
Tropes:
Forced proximity (at a workplace)
Forbidden/secret romance
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