Face Off with Fate: A Single Dad, Grumpy Sunshine, Hockey Romance

A Scoring Chance #2

by Marie Maravilla, Lenora Vex (Narrator), Liam Cortwright (Narrator)

An Instant USA Today Best Seller!

A Grumpy/Brat, Single Dad, Age Gap, Hockey Romance

Graciella’s life is falling apart… again.

Broke, unemployed, and desperate, she does what any independent woman would do—finesses her way into a job. Unfortunately, it comes with the nearly impossible task of fixing the reputation of NHL coach Josh Monroe, who’s been an ill-tempered problem for the league since a devastating injury ended his playing career. Not even a Stanley Cup win could fix his image, but somehow she’s supposed to in a mere three months.

With both of their futures at stake, Gracie comes up with a bold PR plan to win people a fake relationship…just not with her.

Which suits the relationship-averse Graciella just fine. The man barely tolerates her anyway. But spending time with the hot, grumpy single dad and his sweet daughter shows her a whole different side of the man the world loves to hate. Monroe’s gruff complaints soften, and the hard shell guarding her heart cracks with each passing day.

Graciella’s “brilliant” plan lands her in a face off with fate. Falling for Monroe could cost them their careers—but what if it gives them everything they've been missing?

What to

*Grumpy/Brat (he's grumpy, she's a brat to him)

*He Doesn't Want To Like Her

*Single Dad Romance

*Bit of an Age Gap (33-26)

*So Much Banter

*Mexicana FMCs

Genres: Sports Romance, Hockey, Sports, Hockey Romance, Forced Proximity, Romance, Grumpy Sunshine

Audible Audio

Published August 18, 2026

About the author

They say to write these things in 3rd person, but it feels weird. So, I'm not. Clearly. I'm a baby author who deiced it was finally time to purge the stories living in my head. I currently live in Tennessee with my two babies and husband. My life is a wonderful cycle of working, writing, mom-ing, and consuming questionable amounts of caffeine.

Reviews

[megan ◡̈ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS SOOOO MUCH, i very quickly fell in love with marie’s writing last year while listening to high sticking the heart and have been gnawing at the gates of my enclosure for graciella and monroe’s story since the day i finished and they were everything i hoped they would be and more!!

marie’s writing style can only be described as magnetic, she draws you in immediately and hooks you so good you wont want to put the book down. i can guarantee you will never be bored while reading one of her books, the charisma, wit, emotional maturity (!!!) and chemistry of the characters is unmatched. you will definitely feel a rollercoaster of emotions through out (marie is very good at rage baiting me with a certain someones dad LOL).

something thats going to hit for me every time is a single dad romance where the child quite literally steals the show every time they are on page. goldie was so freaking adorable its not even funny, i absolutely loved her personality and how monroe let her be herself and never dulled her sparkle and the way when gracie entered the picture she immediately met goldie where she was and joined in on the fun. my heart melted constantly over these three 😭

a little detail of this book that i absolutely loved was the chapter titles (i live for chaotic chapter titles sorry not sorry) marie breaking the fourth wall with a little snippet of what was to come in the chapter was just the chaotic cherry on top of the story i needed. my personal favorite: “My two little broken babies filling each other’s emotional holes. (and eventually other holes…)” 💀

anywho, if you have yet to read this series wyd!!! i cannot recommend them enough if you love hockey romances, bad ass latina women in sports and their partners who worship the ground they walk on and having fun then these books are FOR YOUUU 🙂‍↕️

[Mairi Swan · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Age gap
*Sports
*Banter
*Humor
*Grumpy/sunshine
*Fake (kind of)
*Single dad

Heroine, Graciella has gotten in some trouble and for her to untangle from it she works with hero, Monroe, who is a single dad grumpy coach and needs to fix his image. But the plan doesn't go according to plan...
I really liked Graciella and how strong she was. She didn't let anyone step on her as she was so confident and sure of herself and I loved it.
I liked Monroe and how, despite of his grumpiness and unwillingness, he was always there for Graciella. Also Goldie! The sweetest kid ever! (Me just melting)
I loved the banter and the tension between them. It was constantly there and kept me on my toes the whole time reading it. And when they finally give in...OMG!
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.

[Lynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m only 58% into the first book and I KNEW it was going to be about them. And sorry not sorry, but the speed at which I opened Goodreads to search for their book? Unmatched.

I’m already counting down the days! It’s on my calendar—I’m not forgetting this one. Can we just fast-forward to June 2026 already?

The way I’m eating up High Sticking the Heart, I know I’m going to devour Gracie’s story next.

What can I say? Marie’s just that good—whether it’s dark mafia romance or sports romance, she delivers every time. I’ve been a fan since the Toxic Paradise series, and honestly, she deserves so much more recognition. She deserves the spotlight just like all those big-name authors.

[Larareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to House of Hearts for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This took me so freaking long to finish, with school and everything, even though it was one of my favorite books I read this month.
It was my first Marie Maravilla books and I'm honestly mad at myself for not discovering her books earlier.
Such a fun, fast-paced read, the writing is amazing and the characters feel so real. The banter and tension is wild! I love a forbidden romance and this was done extremely well!

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟, 3🌶️

If you want a story that delivers on every level, look no further.

I am completely obsessed with this story and the electric chemistry between Graciella and Monroe.

Watching Graciella, a sharp-witted and confident force of nature, collide with the grumpy and guarded coach was an absolute highlight. Their banter is elite and kept me grinning through every scene, creating a tension that felt both playful and deeply magnetic.

The emotional heart of the book is what truly took me by surprise. Beneath his quiet, cynical exterior, Monroe is a devoted single dad, and watching him with his daughter, Goldie, was enough to make my heart melt. Graciella bringing her chaotic warmth into their lives felt so natural and grounding. Seeing these two broken, guarded people slowly decide to trust each other was a beautiful and incredibly satisfying journey to witness.

Everything about this read felt fresh and sincere, from the hilarious chapter titles to the way the story balanced humor with genuine vulnerability. It avoids all the predictable traps of the genre, offering something that feels deeply human, romantic, and perfectly paced. This is the kind of story that leaves you feeling full, happy, and desperate for more, and I have officially found a new favourite to recommend to everyone.

Truly a perfect read that left me feeling completely satisfied.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts Lit for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[Darlene I read WAY to many books · Rating 4 out of 5]

We met these two in the last book and i am telling you I ATE IT UP!!! I Love Graciella she is down in the dumps for losing her job and I hated how she lost it. But moving and sorta putting herself in Monroe bussiness was funny. Girl gotta get a job she's making sure its good.. even if I don't think she was paid lol. So the plan to clean up Monroe image simple and easy fake date someone. And honest that was my biggest worry. But it wasn't bad since both parties didn’t even like eachother that way.
But that was happening in public but in private I loved Monroe doing Graciella laundry, fixing things around her place letting her watch his kid. Was just amazing. The chemistry and banter between the 2 was off the charts.
Goldie and Graciella bonding was so cute I need more family moments 💗
Dont worry we have some drama and moments that break your heart.
We saw more side characters and maybe the next couple 😏

Saftey- the fake dating isn't bad no feelings at all no kisses nothing.

Low angst, no ow/om drama, no cheating, slight secondary character, Drama, sexy times, no virgins

Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶


Slowburnish
Age gap
34MMC/26FMC
Praise kink
Masturbation
Single parent
Fake dating but not her
No condom
Minupulation of a parent
Death of a parent
Hea
Epilogue

[all.the.smut.things · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This was such a fun time. First off, Marie’s writing style just draws you in and keeps you hooked. I love that her books are fun and a little chaotic in the best ways (hello chapter titles) and just keep you turning the page to find out more about the characters and what’s next.

I also loved both Josh and Graciella. Please give me the slightly closed off, grumpy single dad EVRRY time. They are my kryptonite. And when he’s both dad and DADDY… yes. I need it. I will beg🧎‍♀️

And can I just say that Goldie, she has the best main character energy.

✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Single Dad
✨ Coach x Publicist
✨ Age Gap
✨ Grumpy x Brat
✨ He is downbad
✨ Only one Bed

I loved this one. A down bad man will get me every single time. And Joshua (not his name 🤣) was just so grumpy but also so wonderfully obsessed. It made reading his chapters an utter delight, especially his notes.

This one was just great, Graciella was hilarious and I loved her so much. I loved how she interacted with Goldie too and always made that child feel important. I also loved her from the moment she named and bedazzled a hockey stick. That was it I was in love.

Read this it’s fantastic!

[Karly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m absolutely loving this series! It’s cute and fun and the romance is amazing! The fmcs are strong and independent. The banter is flirty. It’s just a super bingeable read. This book was especially cute because of how closed off both mcs were to relationships. They built trust with each other and i loved reading it! I’m also a sucker for a grumpy sunshine dynamic where he slowly opens up to her. This is a sports romance series I’ll definitely be recommend to people!

[cátia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

graciella and monroe have my heart, tho i still love dalton and ariella a little bit more, i feel likei could relate to ariella more and dalton is definitely more of my type of guy but these two stole my heart, their banter was immaculate and funny, it was hot and also so emotional and beautiful, they made me laugh and cry and swoon and everything so i love them a lot i dooo!! i wanted to see more of hockey but oh well it's okay, loved to see monroe getting better at talking to cameras and dealing with the pubic and being more nice to people you know loved how graciella even tho she's a feisty one she does her job beautifully and helps him a lot even tho he didn't ask for her help , she did an amazing job and both found someone who could be there for them no matter what and hyping each other and help each other being the best version of themselves and i think that's soooo wholesome!! monroe's daughter was a cutieee needed even more scenes with her and graciella but the one we got were also pretty good and fun and cute soo im glad!! i liked the plot of him fake dating iztel, a friend of graciella who btw im sooooo excited for her book like she's definitely is going to be my fave like too of the top i can feel it, i already relate to her a lot already sooo even more for sure in her book but yeah they fake date and he talks and asks about graciella all the time they spend together so it was really sweet and both so down bad for each other and took them long enough but monroe being the one to tell her first he wants to be with her and no one else was epic and what a man love he and graciella with her past and he walls being always up doesn't really let herself be with him like that but i loved the scene she came to her senses and wanted to go back for him also having the best of the people with her also helped sooo it's epic and beautiful and i love them!! being book three please now!! also the other players specially jiminez need more scenes and he deserves a book to pls give that man a love interest

[Tracy Hanes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get the ALC from Must Love Audio for this one and it was exactly what I needed. This book had me hooked from the dedication! Lenora Vex and Liam Cortwright absolutely nailed the audio. It’s dual narration, and I loved every second of it. But honestly, Marie never misses.

Let’s start with Graciella, the FMC… she is a baddie with a bob and a big mouth. My personal fave. Then we have Josh, who is a crabby single-dad hockey coach… ANOTHER one of my faves.

These two are like oil and water. When Graciella takes on the job of being his publicist to improve his crabby attitude, she suggests that he get a fake girlfriend to help improve his image. The problem? Graciella has exactly one person in mind for the job… her friend (not her). So this is fake dating, but not between the FMC and MMC, which was such a fun twist.

As they get to know each other and feelings start to sneak in, that fake dating arrangement becomes a whole lot more complicated. And the banter, tension, and YEARNING?? Perfection. I could not stop listening to this audio.

If you want a palate cleanser with incredible banter and tons of yearning… this is it.

[Sandy (Sandy.Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
*rounded up

The banter in this book was absolutely everything. The tension between Graciella and Monroe was off the charts, and when they finally gave in to it, I was absolutely losing my mind.

I am such a sucker for a hot single dad, and Monroe completely stole my heart. Watching Graciella see the way he loved and cared for Goldie healed a little part of her heart. He also had this way of always showing up for her when she least expected it, proving time and time again that she never had to face things alone. And when it came time to fight for her, he was more than willing to chase Graciella to the ends of the earth to prove how much he loved her.

Add in a little forbidden romance while he’s supposed to be fake dating someone else, and I was completely hooked. I am obsessed with this friend group and cannot wait to dive into the next book!

[Lauren⚡️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

give me a grumpy single dad any day and i will fall in love with him! i don’t make the rules!!!!

this is the first book I have been able to finish this month without an audiobook. I ate this up start to finish, I was addicted to this story!!

the banter between monroe and graciella had me smiling and giggling at my phone the whole time and goldie was the cutest kid in the world omg

i’m actually obsessed with these characters and cannot wait for the next book!!!!!

[Lauren (lololovesthings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 stars.

I had a great time reading "Face Off with Fate" by Marie Maravilla. This was a quick and easy read, mostly because it was so fun and funny! I particularly loved the banter between the main characters, Graciella/Gracie (FMC) and Josh Monroe (MMC). Graciella is such a bratty, witty, sparky woman, and Josh is a deliciously grumpy down bad single dad to a wonderful daughter named Goldie. From the very first chapter with the hockey stick, I knew I was going to be hooked on them and their story. The chemistry between them was TEEMING throughout this entire book. Delicious and full of sparks!! Individually, they are excellently written characters. Gracie is chaotic, independent, and hard-working. She comes across as someone who is a total bad4ss on the outside (and she is!), but she's also housing a gooey soft center that she doesn't let just anyone see.... and Josh SEES it. He sees all of her and loves her for who she is. He yearns for her despite being a huge, massive, guarded grump. He wants to prove he's worthy of her, that she's all he wants just as she is, and my god, does it WORK!!!! The way Gracie and Goldie interact had my heart soaring, too. This book is full of heart, wit, and will likely make your heart melt. It's also got some uber mouthwatering spice as well, so stay tuned for that!

Thank you to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts Lit. for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

[han ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"you gonna beg for it, joshua?"
"until my very last breath, trouble."

OBSESSED. everyone was so hot, oh my god.

graciella was my favourite character. period. i saw so much of myself in her, too. she’s loyal and loves hard (especially goldie) and her attitude is everything. she’s a very “i’ll do it myself” kind of woman, except when it comes to her “fix it list”, because obviously those are jobs for men (derogatory, btw), and yes, she’s stubborn, but she’s so passionate and driven and GOOD at what she does. god, i love her so much.

monroe was hot (hello, "daddy" crop top) and his mouth was insane-- #needthat. i was head over heels for how he didn’t give up on gracie when she felt like running. i was fully rooting for him and hoping he wouldn’t let me down (he did not).

goldie was an adorable little angel, who also could be a comedian. her dialogue had me laughing so hard and i couldn’t get over it. kids are ridiculous most times, but they are also hilarious.

will be rereading soon!

thank you so much to the author and house of hearts for the e-arc! 💗

𑣲 age gap
𑣲 single dad
𑣲 grumpy x brat
𑣲 sports romance
𑣲 fake dating...but not her

[Han · Rating 4 out of 5]

33 H 26h
Single dad
Been a while since he’s been with anyone
Very experienced h 😀
H wasn’t in a relationship with daughters mom and she is not in the picture
No OPD
They had met before I think twice in passing in the last book. I don’t think he was with anyone since meeting but I’m pretty sure she was still having ONS but you don’t see them in this book so she might not have been from when this book started. She had a dating site guy come over to fix her sink but H was there and kicked him out.

She set him up with her childhood friend for a fake PR relationship neither he or the friend like eachother other than platonically

[Ananya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wanted to come here again and say that how much i love this book! This whole series in fact. I am seeing everyone around listening to it's audiobook. And i suddenly miss this characters so much😭
I am never gonna shut up about them.😭
⁠i am definitely re-reading this series as soon as I get some time🥹🫶🏼


✯——————————————✯

To be honest i really don't know where to start and where to end.
I am just in love with every single, small and big aspect of this book. It's now official that i will read anything Marie will write. She is an excellent writer and exactly know how to write badass FMC and equally Down Bad(est) MMC. In awe of her writing style.
So i will do the thing i always to do when the book is above 5 stars for me- breakdown each and every point i loved about it-
~ COACH MONOROE(Daddy and daddy *wink*): Well, first of all somebody please send a Monroe in my RL😭 So fucking obsessed with this characters.Possessiveness of Monroe was on fire throughout the story. His protectiveness was completely acceptable and genuine given that he was a single Dad. Hands down to his character 🙂↕️He said BRING YOUR LAUNDRY...did you guys read it....BRING.YOUR.LAUNDRY....I'm sold. He is a truly a ladies man fr. I love that for him.
~ That particular use of word 'home' instead of 'house' was the most imp highlight. So freaking sexy and HOTT. Giving all the tingles-

"to fuck her on every surface of my home."

What can i say🥲 I am addicted.
~ I love the transition from 'Come Home With Me' to 'Come Home with Us'...Ugh daddy coach has my heart trapped in this book. Actually so obsessed.
~ Goldie is the sweetest kid ever written. I also appreciate the fact that there was no too much parenting advice and scenes. Everything was as much as needed and just perfect.
~ And that was some of the hottest stuff a Stanley Cup would ever witness in the history of ice hockey. SO HOTT
~ The banter was so sexy. Like hell the simple task of locking a door felt utterly hot to me.
~ And i am telling you the cute diary entry illustrations and note app entries were the cutest fucking thing I have ever read in the book. Gives a very nice touch to the story.
~ Also I'm so impressed with the author for fitting all the social issues somehow in the story perfectly like the women sports struggle, rookie selection all much needed discussion and awareness.
~ I loved Monroe's relationship with his mom , it was so full of respect. That was really very cool.
~ The found family element in the story has me melted to the floor...so sweet!
~ That last statement of convo between Ari and Monroe had me laughing through my tears. This family of San Jose is everything to me!

“What is it with you two and threatening to jump on airplanes to leave the men who love you?” Ariella let out a snort. “Listen,” she said. “It makes for a great story to tell.”

Anddd....idk why but seeing monroe and Graciella i remember that couple from The Holiday movie

Marie you truly outdid yourself in this book. Seriously fallen in love with your writing, your plot, your books. Auto- buy author for me now!
And i think its obviously that i am beyond excited for Itze's story!!!

What to expect-
~ Fake dating (but not with her)
~ Single Dad
~ Slight Slow Burn
~ Bratty Mouth x Dirty Mouth
~ All the sexy banter
~ "Beg" (both of them)
~ He fixes things for her
~ Protective and Possessive MMC
~ Strong and badass FMC

[Lesley Nuezca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Marie Maravilla for the gifted copy 💚

Y’all, I thought I loved High Sticking the Heart but I loooooved Face Off With Fate! If you know me, you know I love my grumpy x sunshine.

This is my second book of Marie’s and I’ve quickly become obsessed with her writing. Her writing quickly draws you in and you can’t help but become obsessed with her characters. I’ve been curious about Graciella & Josh and their banter since the first book. I loved wayyy too much and it exceeded my expectations. One thing you can count on… Marie will always write a strong, independent Latina baddie FMC. For that, I will automatically read anything she write!

[✨Rachael, Island Bookworm ✨]

Note to self

Gracie and her womanwhoring in book 1 is grating on my nerves.............

Then this is how we start this book

I slipped between the brick pillars, wary of every darkened corner—which was basically all of them. Every other entry light bulb was burnt out or flickering, turning the entire apartment complex into a horror film’s wet dream.
I don’t remember it being this creepy last time I was here…
Then again, I didn’t exactly make a habit of memorizing the living situations of the men I hooked up with. Repeat visits weren’t really my thing.





“Viper, I told you my cousin was taking a shower, and you’d have to wait.”
My eyes shot to Gracie so quickly I thought they might literally fly out of my head. Viper? I mouthed to her, but all she gave me was a shrug. I cleared my throat. Maybe my next question would knock some sense into her. “You let a man named after a snake into our home?”
Her lips thinned, and I knew right away that it was the wrong thing to say. Gracie didn’t take criticism of her romantic interests in her life well. To a degree, I understood it. In our family, the women were always under heavy scrutiny from our fathers and brothers; hell, any male in our life seemed to get a say on what we should or shouldn’t do.
It was one of the few aspects of my culture I resented—the machismo.
I suspected her choice of men was a rebellion in the same way that my lack of a choice in men was. Both were a pushback on the cultural normative we’d been raised with, and normally I didn’t give a shit who she chose to be with.
But none of the others had barged in on me when I was naked.
“My house, Ariella,” she bit back with enough venom that she should have had the name Viper.
I lowered my eyes in a show of apology. “You’re right, I’m sorry.” My gaze snagged on the guy still casually standing in the bathroom. “But I’m sure you can see how I’d be a little bit creeped out that there’s a grown-ass man in the bathroom with me while I’m naked.”“He was supposed to wait until you were done,” she said, frowning.
“Hadda piss, baby.”
God, gag me.
There was no way this guy held doors open for Gracie. He probably made her pay for his meal.
I wanted to vomit at the thought of him peeing while I was less than two feet away. Ew. And he wore her robe while doing that, too.


Swapping spit with a man while your cousin lay only feet away was wild behavior. But also very on-brand for Gracie.
My noise-canceling headphones were fighting for their lives, trying to keep out the sound of them going at it. Tingles ran up my left arm, which had gone numb about five minutes earlier. To make matters worse, I desperately needed to pee, but I was too afraid of what I might see if I crawled out from the sheet I’d hidden under.
What a way to spend a Sunday night.
Honestly, this situation was one wrong move away from someone committing a crime—either indecent exposure or attempted murder, depending on who broke first.
“I do look good in orange,” I mumbled to myself, turning up the volume on my phone.
I couldn’t really blame Gracie. I was the one crashing on her couch, not the other way around. And she’d held off on bringing anyone around all weekend.
Until tonight, that was.

Me:
I’m actually being held hostage on the couch by my cousin and a random man making out…
Dalton:
Wait, what?
Dalton:
I’m aware being a hostage usually means you are unwilling, but my brain can’t manage to figure out how you got into this situation. Can’t you like…move rooms?
A picture of how his brows were probably furrowed in confusion popped into my mind, causing me to grin like an idiot.
Me:
Studio apartment. Nowhere to go unless I hide in the bathroom, but I already experienced another of her hook-ups walking in on me while I was in the shower.

Before I could answer, we were interrupted by some very vocal sounds emanating from my door.
I groaned. “Ugh. You have to be kidding me.”
“Wow, they’re really going at it.” He scrubbed at the back of his neck, the tips of his ears turning pink when a particularly loud moan filtered through the apartment door.
There was no stopping my giggle. “She’s faking it.”

“I will, as soon as you get into your apartment and lock the door. Are you comfortable with that guy, or should I tell him to get lost?” he asked.
“Oh, I’m going to chill out here until they’re done in there.” I hiked my thumb over my shoulder. “Don’t feel like watching a bad porno, you know?” Hopefully my phone had enough battery to last however much longer they’d be at it. I’d send her a text to wrap it up.
Dalton, however, didn’t move to leave. “What do you mean you’re staying out here? Don’t you have your own room in there?”
“Studio, remember?”
I was back to being caged, but the heat in his eyes was different this time—protective. “Ariella, what’s that supposed to mean? Where do you sleep?”
Shit. I knew he wasn’t going to like my answer.
“On my cousin’s couch,” I said sheepishly.




This is so disgusting and irritating.... How do you let your cousin move in with you in a studio apartment and be doing shit like this? Why can't you go back to the deadbeats apartment if you're such a horny monster? If you know you planned to live like this why allow her to live with you at all? So inconsiderate 😒 just trash pussy ewwww


Gracie needs a year before she gets with Monroe.... With repeated std tests in between 🙄. Whyyyyyyyyy would you shove her very recent past in my face so much ughhhhhhhhhh. I hate womanwhoring just as much as I hate manwhoring 🙄there are some things not even a condom can save you from man wtffffff

[princessa (searching for a 5 star) · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the only reason I didn’t finish the book immediately is because I wanted to savor it..

This author has again found a way to make me love yet another sports novel. I had the expectation that I’d enjoy this author’s writing as I had previously but I was also enjoying how each chapter was presented. The detailed images, notes, text messages and chapter subtitles added a unique layer to the overarching story between Graciella and Monroe. Monroe and Graciella’s “diary/note” entries also help unveil the personality of the characters that makes the storytelling even more interesting.

The premise is your typical grumpy x sunshine trope except Graciella has some sass to her character that makes her the perfect match for Monroe. She is similar to the previous FMC where she does not allow people to walk over her. I admire characters such as Graciella that couldn’t be a doormat even if they tried. I also appreciate that the author incorporates diversity and culture into her FMCs.

Graciella’s chemistry with Monroe is explosive from the moment they meet in the previous book. I have a special affinity for single father tropes and Monroe did not disappoint with the level of care and affection he shows his daughter. Monroe is unironically funny and also interesting to read as we start to unreel the layers behind his grumpy temperament. Before he realizes it, he slowly starts falling for Graciella. The moments where he noticed the little things about her such as whenever she changed her nail color were cute to read. Once he falls for Graciella, we are rewarded with more of the most fluffy and romantic scenes in a story. Monroe tried to buy a MOON for Graciella — what a guy.

I loved the incorporation of modern elements in the author’s method of storytelling. The text message chapters are my absolute favorite and so were the connection between chapter titles. Using the chapter titles to speak to the reader was a great touch that I hadn’t experienced before.

Monroe and Graciella are my favorites and I’ll miss them.

[Melanie (mells_view) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s okay, baby. I’m learning I like trouble.”

4.5*

Graciella and Monroe truly stole my heart. Reading about them as cousin/friend and coach to the lead characters in High Sticking the Heart had me excited to see if they would get a story of their own, but actually reading them together was perfection. I love that Graciella is the push Monroe needs in life. He’s great dad, a great coach, a great son, but he’s closed off in so many ways. Graciella is that beam of light in his life that just changes so many things. That said, Josh is perfect for her because he fills a cup for her that she’s had to fill on her own. This one is fun for sure, but it does get deeply emotional at times but these two love and support each other through their tougher and insecure moments.

I love this story because while their relationship shouldn’t be easy, it somehow still is. There are things in their way, but the chemistry and just the way they like—love each other is so perfect and just sweet to watch. The back and forth banter from the start and just the tension that blooms between them constantly is, tense but fun to read.

If you’re looking for single dad, hidden relationship, hockey coach and his new pr manager, then you should absolutely pick this one up.

AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been in the worst reading slump and this book just got me out of it!!! Trust me this one is definitely a must read 🙂‍↕️ I’m obsessed with Graciella and Monroe. After losing her job Graciella ends up becoming Monroe’s new PR agent. Since the league thinks he needs to be more likable she decides he needs a fake girlfriend. I loved the twist of him not faking dating her because it made the slow burn even better. Every single time he had to go through with these dates only to be wishing it was her instead 😭 Ughhhh my heart couldn’t take it! The banter, the tension, the yearning everything was just perfection! Plus him being the most amazing dad was just the cherry on top. I also loved the relationship Graciella and Goldie developed. These two were the same person and I loved how they had Monroe wrapped around their fingers. In the end when everyone got their hea my heart was so happy! Now I can’t wait to see what Marie has in store for Itzel 🤭

Thank you so much to the author for this arc.

[°✧ sultana ✧° · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first book by Marie M. and it was so fun! I absolutely love it when the fmc gets along so well with the single dad’s kid, and their relationship is so adorable. You really get to see how a person fits into your life by seeing how they interact with your loved ones. How they handle parenthood, the easy moments and the not so easy ones.

Josh at the beginning of the book was so over Grace until he realized that he didn’t actually hate her, he hated that he didn’t. Also the mixed-media of seeing their notes and journal entries made this HILARIOUS and we get to see the inner workings of their brains. Super down-bad mmc and a badass fmc always make a great couple. So excited to see what’s in store for the next installment.

[Nia Antonopoulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved loved loved!!! Just what I needed to get me out of my reading slump!! Can’t wait for book three!

[Emily 📚🧚‍♂️ · Rating 1 out of 5]

After giving the first book in the series 5 stars I couldn’t wait to start this one. Unfortunately I did not like the MMC at all.
Should’ve DNF tbh

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light 3. Was a super quick and light read which is exactly what I was looking for. Just didn’t fully connect with the characters. I also felt like even though it was said you didn’t have to read the first book, you kinda did to get a lot of the extra context.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

A grumpy NHL coach. A chaotic PR girl who refuses to leave him alone. A single dad who is secretly the biggest softie. AND he slowly becomes completely down bad for her???

Yeahhhh, I was seated. 😮‍💨

Graciella and Monroe were SO much fun. Their banter was probably my favorite thing about this entire book because these two genuinely could not stop annoying each other. Gracie knew exactly how to push Monroe’s buttons, Monroe acted like she was the biggest inconvenience in his life, and meanwhile the chemistry between them was basically screaming HELLO??? JUST KISS ALREADY.

What I Loved
🌟 Graciella was chaotic, loud, stubborn, and completely unapologetic. I loved how she basically inserted herself into Monroe’s life and decided she was fixing his reputation whether he liked it or not. 😂
🌟 Monroe was PEAK grumpy single dad energy. He barely wants to speak to anyone, but then quietly starts doing things for Gracie and taking care of her??? Sir.
🌟 The banter!!! Gracie calling him Joshua just because she knows it annoys him made me laugh every single time.
🌟 I loved the fake dating twist because HE’S FAKE DATING HER BEST FRIEND. Not Gracie. Which obviously makes the fact that he’s actually falling for Gracie approximately 100x messier.
🌟 Goldie absolutely stole my heart. 🥹 I loved how naturally Gracie bonded with her and how you slowly start seeing Gracie, Monroe, and Goldie become this little family without them even realizing it.
🌟 The diary entries and Monroe’s “Down Bad Daddy” notes were SO funny. Honestly, one of my favorite little details in the book.
🌟 The slow burn was SLOW BURNING, but when they finally stopped pretending they didn’t want each other??? HELLO. 🔥

Favorite Moments
🌟 Monroe discovering Gracie has random Tinder men come over to fix things around her apartment and basically going, absolutely fucking not, I’ll do it. The jealousy??? Delicious.
🌟 Gracie and Goldie together. Literally all of it. 🥹
🌟 Monroe slowly becoming less terrible with the media because Gracie refuses to give up on him.
🌟 ONE BED. Enough said.
🌟 Monroe being completely exasperated by Gracie while also clearly loving every second of her chaos.
🌟 Gracie being willing to take the fall when everything blows up because she wants to protect Monroe and Goldie.
🌟 Monroe making it VERY clear that he doesn’t want some temporary thing with Gracie. He wants HER.
🌟 And the stars??? Stopppp. 🥹🌙

Why It’s Not 5 Stars
I had such a fun time with this, but I wasn’t quite at the screaming-crying-five-stars level.

I LOVE Graciella’s personality, but every once in a while her chaos crossed into being a little too much for me. There were a few moments where I was like, girl… you are 26. Please. 😭

I also think some parts of Gracie and Monroe’s relationship could’ve used a little more time to breathe. They’re both supposed to be incredibly guarded, so there were a few emotional shifts that happened faster than I expected and didn’t hit quite as hard as they could have.

And GIVE ME MORE HOCKEY. 🏒😭 I know we’re dealing with the offseason, but this man is an NHL coach! I wanted more of that world.

Still, none of those things stopped me from loving these two together.

Because underneath all the flirting and banter, their relationship was actually really sweet. Gracie spends so much of her life believing she has to handle everything herself, while Monroe has basically built his entire world around protecting Goldie and keeping everyone else out.

And then somehow they become the people who show each other that maybe they don’t have to do everything alone.

THAT got me. 🥹

Final Thoughts
This was funny, messy, flirty, spicy, and ridiculously easy to fly through.

Graciella and Monroe had me laughing one minute and kicking my feet the next. I loved watching this permanently grumpy man slowly realize that not only is Gracie NOT leaving his life, but he doesn’t actually want her to.

And the fact that she falls for Goldie right along with him??? BYE. 😭

Was it perfect? No. Did I still have an absolute blast reading it? YES.

Grumpy x brat.
Single dad.
Age gap.
Slow burn.
One bed.
Fake dating…but NOT HER.
Jealousy.
Acts of service.
And one extremely down-bad hockey coach.

I mean… what else was I supposed to do besides eat it up? 😮‍💨💚

[ReadingTilTheBreakOfDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I AM OBSESSED. OBSESSED, I tell ya! Face Off With Fate was just so dang good! Monroe and Graciella are everything! The opposites attract tension and banter followed by the slow burn forbidden chemistry kept me on the edge of my seat with total anticipation. And those chapter titles?! Perfection! I'm Dead!

Graciella is a feisty and sassy Latina woman who gets herself in a bit of trouble and goes to drastic measures to pull herself out. And when the win she needs happens to be in the form of good PR for the grumpy single dad and hockey coach, Josh Monroe, she doesn't know how she's going to pull it off without messing something up.

Monroe has just won a championship with his new hockey team. But that's still not good enough for them. They want a guy that can actually talk to the press rather than grunt and offer one word replies. When Graciella inserts herself into Monroe's situation, they soon find themselves working together to polish up Monroe so he doesn't lose everything he's worked for. That's when Graciella comes up with an outrageous plan.

OMG! I absolutely loved this book. I just ate it up! If you know me, I'm an absolute sucker for a single dad romance and Josh Monroe ticked all my boxes and then some. He may not be a man of many words, but he loves his daughter fiercely and he is respected by his team. I loved the way Marie Maravilla wrote him to be strong and possessive in a very quiet, yet demanding way. He matched up to Graciella and her very strong personality. Yes, I love a single dad, but I love a woman that can bring a man to his knees and take hold of any situation.

"Would you look at that? My favorite sight....a man on his knees."

I wanna be Graciella when I grow up! I loved watching her push Josh's buttons but also slowly start to realize that there was much more at play between the two of them. You could feel their chemistry build while they didn't act on it, creating this insane tension that you could cut with a knife. It was insanely hot and had me excited, smiling and kicking my feet just waiting for them to give in. Although they weren't admitting to their feelings to each other, we got to see it in fun little additions to the story. The Chisme Entries from her and the Confessions of a Down-Bad Daddy from Monroe. They gave us the insight into their thoughts that they weren't ready to give up and I LOVED it!

Marie Maravilla knows how to write down bad men that are protective while matching them with strong women that come to play. With the addition of the supporting characters including his daughter Goldie, I couldn't help but be enamored with the whole story. From the banter, tension, and electric chemistry between Graciella and Monroe, to the connection that Graciella formed with Goldie that was so natural and beautiful, you can't help but fall for and love these characters and this world.

If you like:
Hockey Romance
Single Dad
Fake Dating (but not her)
Only One Bed
Badass Latina FMC
Grumpy and Possessive Hero
Slow Burn with all the tension
Banter for days
Emotional and traumatic pasts (both of them)
....then don't miss Marie Maravilla's second book in the A Scoring Chance series. It's not to be missed!!

[Darkest Bellé · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️


Face Off with Fate completely swept me away. It had me laughing, swooning, tearing up, and grinning like an idiot all in the span of a few chapters.

Marie M. somehow balances heart, humor, and undeniable chemistry so effortlessly that I never wanted this story to end.

Josh Monroe is officially joining my list of favorite book boyfriends. Give me a grumpy single dad who quietly shows his love through actions instead of words, and I'm sold every single time. The way he loves his daughter, protects the people he cares about, and slowly lets his walls crumble for Graciella? Absolute perfection. He isn't flashy—he simply shows up, over and over again, proving that love is found in the little things just as much as the grand gestures.

And Graciella? I adored her. She's ambitious, fiercely independent, chaotic in the best way, and so incredibly easy to root for. She refuses to settle for less than she deserves, and watching Josh realize he'd happily do anything for her was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. Their dynamic is playful, frustrating, tender, and completely addictive.

The banter deserves its own round of applause. Every conversation felt natural, witty, and full of tension. The fake dating, workplace complications, and slow unraveling of their feelings kept me hooked from beginning to end. Every stolen glance, every sarcastic remark, every moment where they almost admitted what they felt... it was everything I wanted.

Can we also talk about Goldie? She absolutely stole every scene she was in. She brought so much warmth and joy to the story, and watching the little family they were slowly building had my heart melting.

What I appreciated most was how emotionally grounded this romance felt. Both Josh and Graciella carried their own fears and insecurities, and their relationship wasn't about magically fixing each other—it was about choosing one another, communicating, and growing together. That made every emotional moment hit even harder.

And those romantic declarations? My heart didn't stand a chance. Marie M. knows exactly how to write love confessions that leave you staring at the page for a minute before continuing.

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next book because after those hints at what's coming next, I'm already emotionally invested. If the rest of this series delivers the same level of humor, heart, and romance, consider me completely obsessed.

Thank you Marie & Team for the arc opportunity!!

[LeaReads 🐚🫧 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars baby

Oh how I loved this book. The moment Graciella Xochitil Barrera showed up and insulted Josh aka Joshua Monroe in the first book.. I know I would've loved them down.

My Graciella, my independent, chaotic, funny girl who wanted to be successful and good at her job. She finally found someone willing to fight for her and make her dreams come true. The way she had him on a leash and hanging onto her every word !! Oh I loved that. She used to go on dating apps and get guys to do stuff around her house. And then enters Mr Josh Monroe

Oh my single daddy, who is a grump ... I loved you so much. Josh, you were whipped from the beginning! The way Josh loved and protected Goldie, he was such a good dad. The moment he found out about Gracie's list, he wanted to make sure and be the man that she needs. The way he always showed up for her, be it doing her laundry or fixing her sink.. he was the best. He even put his career on the line for her just to prove she was worth it and that he would always chase after her. He got a star for all of them .. I'm cryinggg I love him
“Graciella Xochitl Barrera. I don’t know if you’re watching. But if you are, I need you to hear this. You are the person I trust, the person who has had my back.” I stared straight down the lens. “The person I love. I told you I’d chase you. I meant it.”

The fake dating, but not to her... the forbidden romance!! AHHHH! The banter in this book was sooo DELICIOUS. The sexual tension .. oh honey, I was sweatingggg in AC ! "Tell me you're my good girl.. I'm your good girl !! AHHHHH... The way I was kicking my feet and giggling at them. Oh, they are clients. I loved the Confessions of a Downbad Daddy and the CHISME ENTRY... it was sooo funny seeing the comparisons between them.

I can't wait for Itzel and José storyline... Itzel has a crush on Miguel, but he doesn't see her that way, and then we have José, the older brother, whom she despises. Oh the teaaaaa!

Favorite Quotes
~Graciella Xochitil Barrera. You are the person I trust, the person who has had my back. The person I love. I told you I'd chase you; I meant it."
~ I am a better man with you by my side, Trouble. My daughter may be the sun. But you are my moon. And I don't want to live my life without you both in it "
~“Grip the counter, Trouble; show me how well you follow directions”
~“Look at me. I would have chosen you.” He said it with a ferocity that sent a shiver through me. “Every single time, I’ll choose you, Graciella. But you have to let me.”

Thanks to Marie Maravilla and House of Hearts for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[drea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to House of Hearts Lit for the arc!

Ahhh this series is quickly becoming one of my new favorite sports romance series AND Marie M. has definitely cemented herself a favorite author of mine. There is so much heart and humor in her books, as well as characters who feel so real. Face Off with Fate had all the banter, emotions, and steam!!! 10/10

It did not take long for me to immediately fall in love with Graciella. She was so quick with her wit and I loved how strong willed she was. I also admired the fuck out of her work ethic and how fierce she was in all aspects of her life. She’s someone I wish I could be best friends with lol. I loved the way she constantly poked fun at Monroe and how loyal she was to both him and Goldie. Her relationship with Goldie was absolutely precious and made me so emotional towards the end.

One thing about me is that I love a grump, but even more so when he’s a grumpy single dad, so needless to say, I LOVED Monroe. He was such a good dad and so devoted to caring for Graciella, too. I loved how he didn’t shy away from giving her the same energy she gave him lmao their back and forth bantering was so funny. It made me so emotional to see the way everyone showed up for him in a way he didn’t have on the past.

Graciella and Monroe were hot together and omg, so here for their chemistry. They were such an easy couple to root for and I had the best time reading about them.

I also LOVED the way the Mexican culture was woven into the book. From the way Graciella talked, to the phrases she used, to experiences that are so common in our culture, to the food and more - it was really awesome seeing my own experience reflected back so intimately like that.

I thoroughly enjoyed this and I cannot wait for more!!