What a sweet little peek into Shea and Elli’s life. 4 & Counting feels like a warm hug from characters you already love. In this short (about 29 pages) novella, Toni Aleo gives us more of Shea and Elli Adler, the couple we first met in Taking Shots, as they prepare for the birth of their twin boys, Evan and Owen. There’s joy, anticipation, and the kind of worry that only real life can bring: Shea is thrilled but nervous, and Elli, while excited, is facing some challenges with her “Assassin starters,” Erik and Phillip. The tone is intimate and reflective, and even though it’s a novella, it doesn’t feel shallow. We see a fully formed couple, not just caricatures.
What resonated most with me was how Aleo captures the everyday beauty of family life. This isn’t about high-octane romance or dramatic showdowns; it’s about commitment, partnership, and looking forward to a future that isn’t just about hockey (though the Assassins world remains in the backdrop). The writing feels unhurried, warm, and personal, as though Shea is telling us his dreams and fears over coffee at home. Readers who have followed Shea and Elli through the first few books will likely adore this little addition, because it gives that gentle, satisfying sense of growth and togetherness. If you love a sweet, character-driven moment that bridges the gap before the next big story, this is a lovely interlude. 4 stars for its warmth, emotional truth, and the quietly powerful way it deepens a beloved couple’s journey.