Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Are you ready for Kane Bellan’s story?

I have a problem.

Potential problem?

I’m not really sure. Here’s the deal.

There’s this girl—isn’t that how it always starts?—and her name is Mollie. I like her. I mean really like her. I hope that doesn’t make me seem less manly than my professional hockey player persona implies. But here’s the issue—she’s my best friend. The one person I can count on for everything, who’s been there with me for all the moments, big and small.

When Mollie shows up at my door, travel weary and scared following an incident with an ex, my instinct to protect her goes into overdrive. It’s then that I know she’s more than just my best friend and the skates are swept out from under me when I find out she feels the same way.

Our transition from friends to lovers to potentially something more is seamless, the Arizona Vengeance is back on the ice looking for a repeat championship, and my life has never been better. Just when I think I’ve got it all figured out, the realities of us both having careers which keep us on the road put our blossoming relationship on ice.

It feels like the game just went into overtime and I’m on the verge of either the biggest win or most disappointing loss of my life. And losing is never an option.

316 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 15, 2020

453 people are currently reading
1731 people want to read

About the author

Sawyer Bennett

165 books14.4k followers
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,018 (32%)
4 stars
1,290 (41%)
3 stars
702 (22%)
2 stars
102 (3%)
1 star
22 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,398 reviews1,506 followers
September 17, 2020
4.5 "Best Friends Forever" stars!
(ARC provided by author)

A37E9879_6FF4_4BAD_9F93_229C25A713EA

Kane Bellan is a professional hockey player who was traded a few months ago to the Arizona Vengeance. He now lives in Phoenix, but a lot of his time is spent on the road. He enjoys the single life and doesn't really do the whole commitment thing. The only girl he has room for in his heart is his best friend Mollie. She's the one person he can always count on and they've shared a strong bond since college. He would do anything for her, so when she shows up on his doorstep and he senses something is wrong, his protective instincts kick in. Soon he realizes there may be more between them than just friendship, and he's conflicted. When he learns she feels the same, things heat up between them.

B0A8EC61_50A5_4668_90E8_A68C927612CE

Mollie Callister is a travel blogger always in search of her next adventure She lives for the thrill and the open road never knowing what the next day will bring. She lives in the moment, but she's recently hit a low point in her life and needs her safe place, so she heads to her best friend Kane's house. He's been her rock for the past ten years, and she doesn't know what she'd do without him. He's everything good in her life, and she loves him deeply. When things begin to shift between them she's scared to ruin what they have, but his touch is thrilling and she craves more. For so long they've chosen to ignore what's been there all along. As they reach a new level of intimacy will their different lives destroy their growing relationship, or will they figure out how to have it all?

2C61381B_1EDA_444A_82F0_F283A86F1068

Kane by Sawyer Bennett is an Arizona Vengeance novel that will capture your heart as two best friends fall hopelessly in love. It's a friends to lovers standalone, hockey romance about trust, and beautiful connections. About building an unbreakable foundation of friendship that transforms into something lasting. This story has love, but it's also packed with red hot chemistry and is extremely sexy! I really love this series and all these delicious hockey players!!!

 photo 708800B6-901E-4A2B-8B1A-C8DCD774F259_zpsqkbfrd0n.jpg

***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2RCCNoU
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,287 followers
November 26, 2021
4 Finally Seeing Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free-Limited Time, ONLY 99 CENTS!!!
I have followed all of the series Sawyer Bennett has done with hockey teams. I have loved all of the books and there is a comfort in reading them. Oh, there will be chemistry, hot times, sexy hockey players, and most importantly, women who have strength, a sure mind, and the ability to live on their own. It is the coming together of these couples and how they recognize their feelings that capture our hearts.

Many of the past books had couples with serious issues to overcome. There were also books that had lighter stories but were just as engaging. I think Kane falls into this category.

Kane is a new member of the Arizona Vengeance.
He transferred from another team and is getting his "feet" so to speak. He is here in Arizona, waiting for the new season/training to start. Kane is friendly with the ladies...but more like he has his "Friends" that they have an unwritten understanding...fantastic sex when they see each other but not a "Relationship".

There is only one person he would say he has any type of relationship with and that is a Bestie Friendship with Molly.

Yes, Molly is a girl and he has known her since college.
No, there is nothing going on at all...
Well, they did have that thing oh, so long ago, but...

No, Molly has been this person who he has had all the respect in the world. She is a travel blogger and has lived all over the world, off the grid, practically. She has legends of Instagram followers and her blog is huge. Independence is her middle name and she does "difficulty" in her sleep.

No, these were Best Friends for the last 10 years. Always there for each other, no matter what. So when Molly arrives at Kane's door, two weeks before she said she was coming, his radar goes off, and knows something is up. Kane has that type of relationship with Molly where they both can look at each other and KNOW.

Know when they are hurting or confused or maybe, just maybe, finally figuring out the one person they have loved as a friend, is actually the one person they should love for the rest of their lives.

This was just the right read for these times. It read easy and light with all of the feels I wanted.
We also got glimpses of past hockey friends and couples so there was that bonus too.

We do have another Arizona Vengeance coming up with Steele.

Bishop (Arizona Vengeance, #1) by Sawyer Bennett Bishop (Arizona Vengeance,#1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Erik (Arizona Vengeance, #2) by Sawyer Bennett Erik (Arizona Vengeance,#2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Legend (Arizona Vengeance, #3) by Sawyer Bennett Legend (Arizona Vengeance,#3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dax (Arizona Vengeance, #4) by Sawyer Bennett Dax (Arizona Vengeance #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tacker (Arizona Vengeance, #5) by Sawyer Bennett Tacker (Arizona Vengeance, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dominik (Arizona Vengeance, #6) by Sawyer Bennett Dominik (Arizona Vengeance #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rafe (Arizona Vengeance #6.5) by Sawyer BennettRafe (Arizona Vengeance, #6.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Wylde (Arizona Vengeance, #7) by Sawyer Bennett Wylde (Arizona Vengeance #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kane (Arizona Vengeance, #8) by Sawyer Bennett Kane (Arizona Vengeance, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9) by Sawyer Bennett Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Jett (Arizona Vengeance, #10) by Sawyer Bennett Jett (Arizona Vengeance, #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
August 18, 2020
Only When I Read do I get such Eye Candy...Well, more like Figment of My Imagination Mind Candy!
X💋X💋X💋X💋

February 20, 2020
I have a Problem...
And Usually, I Would Go...
To My Best Friend for Advice...

Makes Sense, Right...
So Why Can't I Do...
What I have Always Done...

Well, That's Because...
I have finally Figured it Out...
I Really, Really Like My Bestie...
And She is the One...
I Want to be More than Friends...

She is the One Who Was Always There...
Good Times, Bad Times, Important Times...

Now I have to make the Leap...
And I have to Convince Her to Jump with Me...


Kane (Arizona Vengeance, #8)-September 15, 2020

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Profile Image for Dali.
2,087 reviews591 followers
August 30, 2020
Sawyer Bennett crafts a delightfully sexy and heartfelt romance that delves into the much debated question can a man and a woman truly be best friends?

Plot: Professional hockey player Kane Bellan has never twice about the fact that his best friend is a girl. Of course there are a lot of skeptics out there, but ever since he met Mollie in college 10 years ago their friendship has been rock solid. But when his travel blogger friend shows up on his doorstep fearful because of a problem with an ex-boyfriend, Kane doesn’t hesitate to offer his place, his shoulder and all the love and support she needs.

But as the two realize the two of them care for each other beyond friendship, can the find a balance between their developing romance and their careers that would keep them apart?

Hero: Kane is dreamy hero, super laid back, a great friend and teammate who has been cheering on Mollie ever since they met.

Heroine: Mollie has a heart of gold, but will her wanderlust overcome her love for Kane?

Sexiness: Kane and Mollie have known each other for so long that it’s only natural that they take the next step of their relationship with ease sharing an undeniable attraction born out of their deep connection. Naturally, there are some setbacks but their decade old relationship is built to last and it was fun to see it grow.

Feels: I love how Sawyer incorporates past Vengeance couples giving the fans of the series on update on their favorites and introduces new and interesting characters I can’t wait to get to know.

Kane is book #8 of the Arizona Vengeance series by Sawyer Bennett. Kane is a feel-good hockey romance. It’s told from both points of view with a happy ending.

Amazon Paperback -> https://amzn.to/2ES0x55

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *

Stalk me on FaceBookInstagramMore reviews
Profile Image for ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ .
2,334 reviews1,342 followers
August 21, 2020
description

description

KANE & MOLLIE!

Kane is pretty new in Arizona but he likes it there.

Then there's Mollie. She's been his best friend since college.

She's a travel blogger and currently living in his guest room with her dog Samson.

Something happened on her travels and she needs a place to relax for a bit.

They've only ever been friends ...

LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN...

description

Another adorable and funny and slightly heartbreaking story in this great hockey series.

I really enjoyed reading it.

I loved that we don't have this typical back and forth of dating and whatnot. They've known each other for ten years and bam they're in love. It was really cute. But also a bit too easy. Then we have that little bit of excitement with her ex and then a tiny bit of excitement at the very end. Which was cleared up way too easily and stupidly for my tastes. But I really enjoyed reading it and seeing all the other players and wives again.

Can we please get a Sawyer Bennett Hockey Netflix series??

Another tiny thing that bothered me - other than Sawyer's overuse of the word AS ... there was a 'prayer-circle' thing happening and I wanted to throw my kindle out the next window! That shouldn't have happened in a sports romance - that's for christian romances!

KANE was another cute little love story in this great hockey series! ☺ Run to your nearest amazon for your own KANE - this one is MINE!

description
💜 💜


Smokin Hot Book Blog Smokin Hot Book Blog Smokin Hot Book Blog Smokin Hot Book Blog Smokin Hot Book Blog
Profile Image for Sabrina.
4,307 reviews2,397 followers
September 15, 2020
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK



Kane is the eight book in Sawyer Bennett's Arizona Vengeance series but can be read as a standalone with no problem. The story follows Kane and Mollie, best friends in college that stayed close even after they were apart on their own travels. Kane with his hockey team and Mollie exploring the world for her travel blog. When Mollie comes back home and stays for Kane while she decides on her next move their friendship grows to more and it brought so many feels.

I loved the sweetness to this story and how easy it was for Mollie and Kane to trust each other and move from friendship to more. They didn't have a ton of drama between them which I actually appreciated and it made their connection really fun to read about. There was some angsty moments with Mollie having a stalker ex that added some intrigue to the story and I liked that.

Overall, this series has yet to disappoint me and this book just had me falling in love with it more. I can't wait to see where it will lead us next.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jeeves Reads Romance.
1,683 reviews802 followers
September 6, 2020
I've been loving this series as a whole, but this is the weak link for me. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine - when it's executed a certain way. Unfortunately, these two come together in a way that lacks any sort of tension; it's all too easy and makes for a storyline that feels like filler. Our couple goes from sleeping with other people to love in a matter of days, and that's endlessly frustrating for me. However, Bennett is a skilled writer, so I still loved the team moments and the hints to future books. It's not going to put me off of the series, but won't be one I'll revisit.

The story follows Kane, a pro hockey player whose life is sent off-balance when his longtime bestie, Mollie, comes to stay with him. Kane's been living the single life while Mollie's been off exploring the world, so it's been easy to keep things in the friend zone - until now. But with Mollie staying in Kane's home and flirting with his teammates, Kane soon realizes that he's having some decidedly un-friendly feelings. As the two navigate the changes to their relationship, they have to figure out how to make the leap from friends to lovers without ruining everything.

There's a lot that I liked about the book, from the depth of their feelings to the shared history between them. I don't necessarily want my friends to lovers romances to be complicated, but I also don't want a 5-minute conversation to change everything. The book literally opens with Kane sleeping with another woman and let's just say that Mollie was nowhere on his mind, so I have difficulty accepting such a sudden shift in their relationship. Honestly, this didn't feel like a "romance" to me because these two don't actually fall for each other in the book. It's still a good story with a suspenseful subplot and some teases to future books (I want Baden's story ASAP), but definitely lacked that spark for me. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review of this steamy sports romance.
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,564 followers
August 20, 2020
Ooooh, this was delicious!

Pure, low angst, high heat, blissfully romantic friends-to-lovers goodness!

I am a longtime fan of the Arizona Vengeance series (honestly, all of Sawyer Bennett’s hockey romances) and this was another stellar offering. I love how each one brings its own distinct flavor. Some are full of emotion, some are a little dark, and some – like this one – are just easy, sweet romance.

There was an element of suspense in this story. It didn’t hijack the romance storyline and it resolved pretty simply, but it made for some compelling reading and gave Mollie’s story some charged depth and complexity. I loved how easily the relationship transitioned from friends to lovers. I loved how Kane was so fiercely protective of Mollie, but also allowed her to make her own choices and be her own person. He understood that she wasn’t his to cage, and he struck the perfect balance in his love and care for her.

In all, this was a quick, sweet, sexy addition to this fantastic series. I loved the time I got with Kane and Mollie and – as always – cannot wait for the next one! ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
Profile Image for Auntee.
1,356 reviews1,472 followers
December 24, 2021
Good story, likable characters, plenty of chemistry, and just a little suspense followed by some angst. Long time besties Kane and Mollie take their 10 year platonic friendship to the next level when Mollie's life is threatened by a crazy ex. and she turns to Kane for help. Once the ex is dealt with, will Mollie return to her traveling lifestyle or will her love for Kane shift her priorities?

I liked it. Kane was swoon worthy and Mollie fit right in with his teammates and their wives. So why would Mollie even think about packing her bags? I wanted her to settle down and compromise with Kane over the direction of their future. Not to worry, after some open communication it all worked out in the end.

Now on to Jim's book. I want to see how he's going to win back his wife...
Love this series and the writing.
4 1/2 stars
Profile Image for Kim Whitehead.
2,828 reviews
August 20, 2020
Gahhh!! Kane and Mollie were explosive! Such a warm and loving story! Sawyer Bennett transports you to the world of Kane! Friendship turns to love and difficult decisions were made! A glimpse into future events, which has me ecstatic about what’s to come! Such an awesome book! As in the words of Kane, written by Sawyer, “ It was fucking stupendous and you know it!”
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,729 reviews529 followers
September 15, 2020
Kane is a relatively new member of the Arizona Vengeance but in his short time there he has gotten to know his teammates pretty well and is fearful that there is something in the water because they are all starting to drop....I mean settle down. I found this rather hysterical because some women think that when their friends start becoming pregnant so it was rather funny that he thought this when his friends started getting into serious relationships.

Mollie and Kane's story is a sweet and steamy romance that is low on angst, at just over 300 pages it can be read over the weekend and you'll be glad you dove in. Not only do we get this delicious friends-to-lovers but we get caught up on all the previous couples and we meet a new member of the team.

You can read my full review here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewKane

kane by sawyer bennett

Nadine's Obsessed with Books **I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Profile Image for book bruin.
1,532 reviews355 followers
September 17, 2020
Edited 9/17/20
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 4 stars
Story 4 stars

Revisiting this story via audiobook was really fun. Lessa Lamb is a new to me narrator and I thought she was really wonderful as Mollie. Her male and female voices were great and she had good range/variety as she voiced the different characters. I've listened to a few other titles by Jeremy York and he always gives a solid performance. I'm not sure he truly fit Kane's carefree personality, but it was still an enjoyable listen.

*****
Friends to lovers is my catnip and I couldn't wait for Kane and Mollie's story. I really enjoyed this mix of sports romance and a bit of romantic suspense. It was great to see the crossover between this series and the Jameson Force series. I loved how well Kane and Mollie knew and understood one another. They have been best friends for 10 years and it was such a natural progression for them into something more. The story was a bit predictable, but the low drama and high heat was just what my heart needed. I'm definitely intrigued by the rest of the Vengeance's second line now, especially Riggs and Jett, and am looking forward to Jim Steele's second chance romance next!

Kane is book 8 in the Arizona Vengeance series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone. Characters from the previous books do appear throughout though and the series runs on a continuous/concurrent timeline.

*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
September 14, 2020
Best friends to lovers…

Arizona Vengeance is back! Let the cheering begin! This family of players and their partners never fails to provide a ‘forget the world’ read and Kane and Mollie did just that…

This is one of my favourite tropes and their besties to lovers’ journey/ hockey romance had a bit of suspense thrown in as well. Kane was a pro hockey player but stayed grounded, in part, with Mollie’s help. They could talk about anything and weathered all the storms. They ‘got’ each other. So when Mollie crashed at his place, hurting and hiding, he of course stepped in.

These characters were so wonderfully normal! There was drama, of course, but this author knows how to write the unexpected in a way that feels natural. They talked, they shared, they dated. All the stuff lovers do and it was revealing, steamy and full of laughter and love. With danger stalking them, and family all over their new relationship (in a good way!) their courtship was anything but calm…

Another great read in the series! ~Diane, 4 stars
Profile Image for Kahea.
2,264 reviews123 followers
August 24, 2020
***5 Stars***

This baby made my bookishaf heart all kinds of happy!
The friends to lovers journey made my romance loving heart all kinds of happy, there was good does of drama that gave me some time with a few favs from another series AND I got to catch up with some favs and get to know some of the side characters better as well as meet a new one who may just rival my main man Tacker when we finally get to into his story.

I loved Kane and Mollie. Kane is simply a good man. He sweet, charming and protective. Mollie is sweet, sassy and determined and though she is a wanderer, she’s also quite logical in how she wanders. Their journey to their HEA was a lot of fun to experience. I loved their bantering and it was easy to see how close they were from the start. While the angst was low, because they already know each other down to their very core, they did have to work through learning to be a couple who’s careers weren’t your typical 9-5 ones. I liked how they dealt with it all, even the big blowout which was definitely one where they were both right and wrong all at the same time, and couldn’t be happier with where they were at in the end.

As I said at the start of this review, I loved hanging out and catching up with the Vengeance crew because the family dynamic between all of the characters is something I really enjoy. I love seeing how all of their relationships evolve, where it is romantically or platonically. While I’m totally making grabby hands at Steele’s book, I’m totally crossing my toes that Jett, Baden and Riggs all get their own books because I need to know more about all of them!

~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Profile Image for Irene.
1,909 reviews129 followers
September 16, 2020
4.5 stars

Kane by Sawyer Bennett, is a well written and entertaining friends to lovers romance and I really enjoyed it.

I enjoyed the storyline, it held my interest from start to end and I loved watching the relationship between Kane and Mollie unfold. They made me smile and swoon and I loved how they were able to make their careers work plus be in a loving relationship.

description

Overall, Kane is a great addition to the Arizona Vengeance series and I highly recommend it.

Now Live!
► Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MH8CuE
► Nook: http://bit.ly/2ZCsxQA
► Apple: https://apple.co/37oDCri
► Google: http://bit.ly/37owUBE
► Kobo: http://bit.ly/2F8AvYo
► Print: https://amzn.to/31nN3VW

🎧 Audible (narrated by Jeremy York and Lessa Lamb): https://adbl.co/2D5AnLQ

*An ARC was provided in exchange for my honest thoughts.*
Profile Image for Tpagirl Loves Romance.
1,672 reviews185 followers
September 16, 2020
Kane was the eighth book in the Arizona Vengeance series by Sawyer Bennett.

Kane Bellan was the second line center for the NHL expansion team, the Arizona Vengeance. We met him in the previous book as a new member of the team who played hard both on and off the ice. We also learned that he had a female best friend that despite the protests from his teammates, they both insisted they were just best friends forever and nothing romantic. Enter Mollie.

Mollie Callister was a free spirit who traveled the world with her dog Samson in her customized van and was paid to blog her travels. She had an adventurous spirit and had no desire to stay in one place for too long.

Kane was a friends to lovers theme. Kane and Mollie had been best friends since college. Although a common trope, it wasn’t common in that they didn’t secretly wish for more. It wasn’t the typical pining away secretly but didn’t want to mess with the friendship. They were friends period. And then all the sudden they seemed to notice each other and ran with it.

Although I liked both characters, I gravitated more towards Mollie’s free spirit. But they were both fun and I enjoyed their bantering. I didn’t; however, necessarily buy into their quick love. I felt the friendship and the sex attraction but not necessarily the deep rooted love. It felt a little instant to me. But with that said, it was still well written and a good addition to the series. I also enjoyed the suspenseful aspect to Mollie’s dilemma. No spoilers so no elaboration, but I enjoyed how Bennett incorporated it into the storyline.

All in all, it was a quick a fun read with insight and teasers into future books. Jim’s book is next up in Steele but I hope to see Riggs’ book soon too. And we can’t forget about Baden - hopefully he’ll surface again shortly as well! Onward and Upward!
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
September 15, 2020
When two people have been besties for years, how do they go from best friends to lovers? This is the reality for Kane and Mollie. As the story opens, Kane is actually at the end of a booty call with one of his friends-with-benefits when Mollie shows up. But his affection for Mollie is clear when he welcomes her with open arms with hardly a second thought to the other woman standing right there! I found their friendship to be pure and sweet and based on mutual affection and love.

I will admit though, while I felt the genuine caring and concern apparent between them, their first encounter as lovers seemed to come out of nowhere for me. While it didn’t exactly feel forced, it still came out of the blue for me. Perhaps that was due to the fact that all of the getting to know one another took place a decade ago, and we don’t yet know either of these people the way they know each other. It looks like insta-lust, even though we know it’s not. But once Kane and Mollie have declared themselves to be a couple, I found them endearing and adorable, especially the way the other members of the team and their girlfriends and wives rally around them. Kane is so caring and protective, especially in light of Mollie’s ex-boyfriend turned stalker, and Mollie is so fiercely independent that I couldn’t help but adore her.

Coupled with the introduction of new characters that I can’t wait to learn more about, and the set up for the next story, I really enjoyed Kane. It was a sweet and slightly suspenseful addition to the Arizona Vengence lineup.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Melissa  ❤️ bookaddict_fanatic .
1,130 reviews110 followers
September 15, 2020
Sawyer never disappoints when it comes to these Arizona Vengeance players!!! Each book in this series has been explosive with chemistry and this story was no exception. Kane and Mollie's story was a fun, sexy read with a side of suspense but captured your attention from beginning to end. If you love a great bestfriends to lovers read then you'll definitely want to grab this book! Plus it's always great to catch up with all your favorite Vengeance players and a side of your favorite Jameson Force Security team.
Profile Image for Jenn Amy.
910 reviews82 followers
September 14, 2020
4 stars!

Kane Bellan is the newest addition to the Arizona Vengeance Hockey team. He was traded to the team last season and was a part of getting the team to the Stanley Cup in the previous season. He is now a valued new player. He is settling into his new life in Arizona. He as been focused on his new team, and getting to know his teammates and building friendships with them. He has had very little time for relationships. He may hookup with the odd woman but doesn't get in the habit of forming an emotional connection or relationship with them.

Mollie Callister is a travel blogger. She is also Kane's best friend. They have been friends for over 10 years. She turns to Kane after a terrible run in with an ex-boyfriend as she feels safe and secure with Kane. They have a beautiful friendship. Both secretly had feelings for the other but would never admit or act on them except for once in college. Now that Mollie is staying at his place their attraction is getting harder to ignore.

This was a sweet, and sexy friends to lovers romance. It is low angst, lots of steam and a bit of suspense. I LOVE when Sawyer crosses this series with my other favourite series of hers, the Jameson Force Security Team. There were a few parts of this story that were problematic. They jumped quickly from friends to lovers and I felt the romance could have been slightly more developed. I will admit this wasn't my favourite of all the Vengeance men but I still enjoyed it and I am still in love with the series. I adore all that Sawyer Bennett writes. The way she weaves family and friendship into every story line is beautiful. There is always emotion and suspense and heart at the end and I am excited for Steele's story next.

*ARC received in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,851 reviews178 followers
August 29, 2020
Kane Bellan was a last minute trade last year, but ended up helping them win the Stanley Cup. He is now a valued member of the Arizona Vengeance and has made new friends on his team. He has not had time for real relationships due to hockey and just settles with inconsistent hookups.

When his best friend, Mollie Callister unexpectedly shows up on his doorstep needing a place to stay, he is excited, surprised, and concerned. And his concern only grows when he finds out why she is hiding out with him instead of being on the open road enjoying her life as a travel blogger.

They have been best friends for ten years and only one in college did they take it a step further. But now that they are sharing space and Kane is seeing others vying for her attention, unresolved feelings are starting to surface. When he comes up with an idea to take care of any needs she has, things move fast for these two. Their friendship gives them a great foundation and just makes all of the new discoveries even better. They have history, a strong bond, understanding, chemistry, and feelings. Things are looking good for them...

But she still has pressing issues to deal with. This part of the storyline brings in a suspense component and I enjoyed some crossover cameos. And the other complication is the way they have been living their lives and their careers could take them in opposite directions. They both travel but in completely different ways and schedules. I have to admit although for the most part I liked Mollie, she really frustrated me at times too. I loved Kane and I felt bad for him, but he was not always perfect either.

Were they better off as friends or will they be able to make a real relationship work? And if not will it end their decade long closeness?

This is a sweet and sexy, best-friends-to-lovers story with a suspense subcomponent. This brings back many of the Vengeance and their significant others and introduces some intriguing new characters as well. I am looking forward to more in this series. I am excited for Steele's book next since he was featured in this one and I love his storyline. But I am also very interested in Baden and Riggs. I hope they get their own books too.
description
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
Profile Image for Janey.
1,319 reviews
September 17, 2020
Kane Bellan is new to the Arizona Vengeance, having moved from the Carolina Cold Fury. He’s never been a great one for relationships, favouring a few benefit calls, but that suits him & his hectic hockey lifestyle.

Mollie Callister is a travel blogger who has enjoyed visiting the world with her converted van & trusted dog, Samson. Following an incident on route, she rushes back to her best friends door, seeking comfort.

Kane & Mollie have been firm friends since college & whilst both having deeper feelings for each other, they’ve put them aside allowing each other to pursue their dreams. What ensues is a battle..a battle of feelings that neither can no longer deny.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of the Vengeance stories, each having their merit & each differing levels of fraught or fun.

It was a joy to unfold their story in true Sawyer style.

Complimentary copy received with delight, which I was happy to give a review for
Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,030 reviews12 followers
August 21, 2020
ARC received from author for an honest review



Now that my beloved Canes are out of the Cup finals, I need to get my hockey fix through my books.


And Ms Bennett's hockey hotties are some of the best out there.

I love all a friends-to-lovers story, and when besties Kane and Mollie take that step it is all very cute, and maybe this is just my thing, but maybe things were just a little toooo easy? Gah, who know what I am thinking. I know they have known each other for a decade so that takes out all the getting to know you stage of dating, so who knows what I really wanted lol

We do have a couple of bits of drama throughout their tale, so it isn't all easy peasy for them. But they are so cute and lovely and adorable.

I adored getting more of the couples from the previous books in the series. The whole Vengeance crew are one big happy family, and I love the way they are there for each other.

Also, fingers crossed, we got a little bit of set up for Braden's story? Oh please, I need to know more there.

I love that there are always comings and goings to the team, so I want this series to go on forever and ever.

Please make this happen Ms Bennett!


Smokin Hot Book Blog Email
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,629 reviews27 followers
September 14, 2020
Mollie needs a place to land as she sorts out what her next steps are after her long term relationship imploded in a huge way. She knows she could go to her parents, but running to Kane feels safer. He has always been her best friend and right now she needs to hide somewhere not connected to family.

Kane is a newer member of the Arizona Vengeance but has settled into his place on the team. His life is hockey, with little time for relationships, which works for him. When Mollie shows up earlier than expected, he welcomes her with open arms. They don’t have secrets from each other, and she knows all about his extracurricular schedule. But the longer they spend in close quarters, the harder it is to ignore the growing attraction between them.

This was such a fun, easy friends to lovers story even with an element of suspense hanging in the background. Mollie has reason to question what she is going to do next, but I loved that she felt like Kane was her safe place from the beginning. Their friendship formed the basis for everything their relationship grew into throughout the book. I did find myself frustrated by their lack of communication at times, especially with as strongly as they both clung to their original friendship. But they each had their own reasons for reacting in the ways they did, and I loved what they were working for all along.

There are some really fun cameos as part of this story - I enjoyed the little crossover peak during 1 particularly pivotal scene. But there is also a lot from Kane’s teammates and their partners and I am already anticipating more from the Vengeance crew.

description
Follow Me: Blog: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
Profile Image for Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms.
2,802 reviews344 followers
September 15, 2020
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite sub-tropes in a romance, and I absolutely loved the story of Kane and Mollie. They had known each other for a very long time, and apart from one night where they crossed a line in college, they've been best friends. Telling each other about their SOs and sharing every important thing in their life.
Then, something happens to Mollie, and she shows up on Kane's doorstep. And they both feel a little bit different this time. Not only because they're both single, but because there are some very deep feelings between them.
I loved that Mollie usually traveled alone in a minivan as a travel blogger. She was an independent woman in so man ways, and she enjoyed being on her own with her dog. However, she could still see that there was something more she might want from life, and that she just might get that with Kane.
I loved everything about this novel! The chemistry between Kane and Mollie was sizzling. Of course, the hockey was top notch, and the friendships between the players, their significant others, and then Mollie was so heartfelt.
Definite rec from me!
Profile Image for Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers).
1,757 reviews143 followers
September 14, 2020
Kane is the eighth book in the Arizona Vengeance series by Sawyer Bennett. I'm loving this series and Kane is a perfect addition to it! This is the start of the second line players and I'm all swoony and giddy over Kane. This is a best friends to lovers series and it was sweet, sexy and meaningful. Kane and Mollie have been best friends for a long time. They share their lives, their hopes and dreams and they just get each other. When Mollie needs a place to stay for a while, she shows up on Kane's doorstep. He's elated to see her! It doesn't take long for them to cross over from friends to lovers and it was so fun to watch them fall. They were already mostly there, but one hot night together tipped them over the edge. Now they are a couple trying to navigate their new relationship. There's obstacles and things that need to be talked about before they can move forward, but they love each other enough to make it work! I loved that Kane was all in from the start. Never second guessing that he wanted her to be his. Period. Overall, I loved Kane and Mollie, seeing the guys again and meeting more of the team who we will get soon!
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
September 17, 2020
I liked this one, although I wasn't sure with how it started, Kane going from one woman's arms to another. It worked because it wasn't creepy and he didn't jump into bed with the second woman instantly. It also helped that they had a 10 year friendship to build on.

I liked that when Mollie need to feel safe she went to Kane and he gave her the room until she was ready to tell him what happened. That really seemed to flip a switch him Kane, one that really changed after Mollie went on a date with a teammate of Kane's. I have to say, by that time I was happy to see them cross the line and it was great how afterwards they talked about how their relationship changed and they kept talking about it. Kane helped Mollie find a way to be safe around town, heck he even helped her get free of her problem. So when they had the big fight at the end, I sort of found myself on Kane's side. I thought he had the better arguement and hated that Mollie didn't see it. Either way both of them came to their senses and worked things out to find their HEA.
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,632 reviews419 followers
September 8, 2020
Review by Trinette Dungee

The latest member of the Arizona Vengeance to fall claim to his heart is Kane Ballen. When Kane’s best friend Mollie shows up unexpectedly on his doorstep, he’s ecstatic. They’ve been best friends for years, since they met freshman year of college. Even after Kane was drafted into the NHL and Mollie’s career took off as a travel-blogger they remained close. They may not have physically seen each other much with their schedules, but their bond was never broken. They shared one intimate night years ago and determined they were better fit as friends rather than lovers. Or so they told one another. An attack on her life lands Mollie on Kane’s doorstep. Interest in Mollie from his teammates has Kane stepping up his game and claiming Mollie as his. The two agree to give a relationship a try.

There’s not too much to say about Kane and Mollie other than this was an enjoyable friends-to-lovers romance with limited angst as Kane and Mollie navigate their emotions and relationship. It’s rare but I didn’t immediately like Kane or Mollie. I didn’t connect with them as easily as did with other Vengeance characters With Kane and Mollie there was no “let’s get to know each other phase”, they jump right into a relationship and at the same time try to find the man who attacked Mollie. We get a glimpse into the life Jim Steele who is currently going through a divorce and we are introduced to Riggs Nadeau who is proving to be quite the mystery. So, with likeable characters, a little suspense and some intrigue we get a story that hits the ground running towards a happily ever after.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.