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Devington Devils Hockey Romance #1
The Devil You Know
An enemies to lovers college hockey romance
Noah Donahue
He’s the starting center for the Devington University Devils hockey team.
He’s also the center of the universe for almost every female student here.
I’d be happy if our orbits never intersected.
Unfortunately, he’s the best friend of my boyfriend.
The boyfriend who decided we needed to “take a break” this past summer before senior year.
But one thing I do have in common with Noah is that I play to win, and I’m not giving up just like that.
When Noah is the one to suggest a fake relationship to remind my ex what he’s missing, I’m game.
I have no idea what Noah’s aims are, but if it means returning to the status quo I once knew, I’ll do what I have to.
But you know what they say about making a deal with the devil…
Now, it’s not my soul I’m worried about losing, it’s everything I thought I ever wanted.
This is a New Adult College Romance in the Devington Devils Hockey Romance series. Although each is a stand-alone, they should be read in order for the best reading experience
Warning: Due to adult situations and language 18+ only.
Noah Donahue
He’s the starting center for the Devington University Devils hockey team.
He’s also the center of the universe for almost every female student here.
I’d be happy if our orbits never intersected.
Unfortunately, he’s the best friend of my boyfriend.
The boyfriend who decided we needed to “take a break” this past summer before senior year.
But one thing I do have in common with Noah is that I play to win, and I’m not giving up just like that.
When Noah is the one to suggest a fake relationship to remind my ex what he’s missing, I’m game.
I have no idea what Noah’s aims are, but if it means returning to the status quo I once knew, I’ll do what I have to.
But you know what they say about making a deal with the devil…
Now, it’s not my soul I’m worried about losing, it’s everything I thought I ever wanted.
This is a New Adult College Romance in the Devington Devils Hockey Romance series. Although each is a stand-alone, they should be read in order for the best reading experience
Warning: Due to adult situations and language 18+ only.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 10, 2021
15 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 9, 2021
3.90⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: New Adult Sports Romance (College)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 3.90/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy, Hockey Captain & Determine
Series: Book 1
Pages: 319
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I like this story. I found myself invested and curious to see how this triangle would play out. Noah is the captain for the hockey team at Devington University. Grace is with Matt, Noah’s best friend and teammate. Grace becomes devastated with Matt wanting a break from their relationship the last year of college. In comes Noah, to help Grace through this break.
So this started out enemies to lovers, though I can say the enemy aspect was one sided. This didn’t have a long life span, but enough to introduce us to the dynamics of these characters in the beginning of the story. Grace makes her dislike of Noah known and shows this in the opening scene, which I really like. It’s what pulled me into this story and sparked my curiosity. Fast forward to Noah playing the fake love interest to help Grace. Also, this did not have a long life span too, which I am not upset about because once Noah’s motives unfold, it changes everything for me. Fast forward again to Noah and Grace establishing their relationship, the rest of the book, their relationship gets stronger, and you are watching their growth. They did not have any major conflicts at all. The second half of the book is more revealing the drama and a lot of things that unfold regarding Grace’s and Matt’s relationship (Soap Opera). All I’m going to say is, 3 years, you would think you know someone.
Noah’s determination to have Grace was a turn on. He is blunt and sexy and I loved that about him throughout the book. I admit, I got a little excited watching his interactions with Matt. Jealousy is a dangerous drug. Grace, I think she switched really quick, going from I hate you to I want you. However, when someone shows you different, then what else is there to be said. The way she acted as though she couldn’t live without Matt in the beginning was cringing. So I am glad to see a different her with Noah.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I enjoyed their sexual chemistry. In the beginning, I thought Grace would be timid, but she surprised me. It was satisfactory for me.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
So I liked that the author gave us actual Hockey games and even practices. In doing so, we got to see some team members. Cole and Evans stood out to me and I believe they will have their own stories. We only got to see them on the ice or locker room, so didn’t get to see any drama with them that could have trickled into the next book.
OVERALL:
I don’t think it needed to be as long.It’s a simple, likable college story about a guy finally getting the girl he wants. I mean it only took him 3 years, but it was worth the wait.
TRIGGERS: none
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: New Adult Sports Romance (College)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 3.90/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy, Hockey Captain & Determine
Series: Book 1
Pages: 319
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I like this story. I found myself invested and curious to see how this triangle would play out. Noah is the captain for the hockey team at Devington University. Grace is with Matt, Noah’s best friend and teammate. Grace becomes devastated with Matt wanting a break from their relationship the last year of college. In comes Noah, to help Grace through this break.
So this started out enemies to lovers, though I can say the enemy aspect was one sided. This didn’t have a long life span, but enough to introduce us to the dynamics of these characters in the beginning of the story. Grace makes her dislike of Noah known and shows this in the opening scene, which I really like. It’s what pulled me into this story and sparked my curiosity. Fast forward to Noah playing the fake love interest to help Grace. Also, this did not have a long life span too, which I am not upset about because once Noah’s motives unfold, it changes everything for me. Fast forward again to Noah and Grace establishing their relationship, the rest of the book, their relationship gets stronger, and you are watching their growth. They did not have any major conflicts at all. The second half of the book is more revealing the drama and a lot of things that unfold regarding Grace’s and Matt’s relationship (Soap Opera). All I’m going to say is, 3 years, you would think you know someone.
Noah’s determination to have Grace was a turn on. He is blunt and sexy and I loved that about him throughout the book. I admit, I got a little excited watching his interactions with Matt. Jealousy is a dangerous drug. Grace, I think she switched really quick, going from I hate you to I want you. However, when someone shows you different, then what else is there to be said. The way she acted as though she couldn’t live without Matt in the beginning was cringing. So I am glad to see a different her with Noah.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I enjoyed their sexual chemistry. In the beginning, I thought Grace would be timid, but she surprised me. It was satisfactory for me.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
So I liked that the author gave us actual Hockey games and even practices. In doing so, we got to see some team members. Cole and Evans stood out to me and I believe they will have their own stories. We only got to see them on the ice or locker room, so didn’t get to see any drama with them that could have trickled into the next book.
OVERALL:
I don’t think it needed to be as long.It’s a simple, likable college story about a guy finally getting the girl he wants. I mean it only took him 3 years, but it was worth the wait.
TRIGGERS: none
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2022
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was cute but not quite as good as I had hoped. The start was fun and I was really liking it. I’ll admit I’m a sucker for the fake relationship theme! It’s just when the ex is made to be this horrible person and the h’s feelings towards the H made a complete 180 — that’s where I ran into some issues. It became mushy instalove at that point, and then add in fade to black scenes. It made it hard to connect with the characters and while I thought they were cute together, I didn’t have any emotional reaction to their connection to each other. The conflict was all about side characters, so that didn’t make their connection feel stronger either. It wasn’t horrible or anything…it just probably won’t be all that memorable in the long run.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grace and Noah’s story. Noah finds Grace in a compromising position when he enters his friend’s apartment their first night back on campus for their senior year. Grace is trying to end the “break” her boyfriend had imposed over the summer by surprising him with spicing things up, but she gets his annoyingly hot friend and teammate instead. When Grace isn’t feeling successful in winning back her boyfriend’s attentions, she reluctantly agrees to fake date Noah when he suggests it. Only Noah has been wanting Grace since freshman year, so his motives are a little different. There are some sweet moments, some secrets revealed, some drama…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grace and Noah’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel slow towards the end but I never skimmed.
Instalove: Kind of. It seemed to come out of nowhere! Or like they already had strong secret feelings when this started.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Noah. I liked him. I appreciated how he was honest and how he built the h up after she was broken down by her ex.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Grace. I liked her. I appreciated how she cared for the H and stood up for herself.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes and no. Most scenes after the initial are fade to black.
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: No, once they get together they stay together
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and bonus epilogue. I thought it gave pretty good closure and I would call it a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Overall Opinion: This was cute but not quite as good as I had hoped. The start was fun and I was really liking it. I’ll admit I’m a sucker for the fake relationship theme! It’s just when the ex is made to be this horrible person and the h’s feelings towards the H made a complete 180 — that’s where I ran into some issues. It became mushy instalove at that point, and then add in fade to black scenes. It made it hard to connect with the characters and while I thought they were cute together, I didn’t have any emotional reaction to their connection to each other. The conflict was all about side characters, so that didn’t make their connection feel stronger either. It wasn’t horrible or anything…it just probably won’t be all that memorable in the long run.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grace and Noah’s story. Noah finds Grace in a compromising position when he enters his friend’s apartment their first night back on campus for their senior year. Grace is trying to end the “break” her boyfriend had imposed over the summer by surprising him with spicing things up, but she gets his annoyingly hot friend and teammate instead. When Grace isn’t feeling successful in winning back her boyfriend’s attentions, she reluctantly agrees to fake date Noah when he suggests it. Only Noah has been wanting Grace since freshman year, so his motives are a little different. There are some sweet moments, some secrets revealed, some drama…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grace and Noah’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel slow towards the end but I never skimmed.
Instalove: Kind of. It seemed to come out of nowhere! Or like they already had strong secret feelings when this started.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Noah. I liked him. I appreciated how he was honest and how he built the h up after she was broken down by her ex.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Grace. I liked her. I appreciated how she cared for the H and stood up for herself.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes and no. Most scenes after the initial are fade to black.
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: No, once they get together they stay together
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and bonus epilogue. I thought it gave pretty good closure and I would call it a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
June 17, 2021
3.5 ⭐️
In my NA era.....everyone look away I’m just here for a good time
In my NA era.....everyone look away I’m just here for a good time
September 12, 2021
4 5 I really enjoyed this book! I would have loved a bit more banter between Grace and Noah, but their relationship was sweet. I absolutely adore Noah, he was such a good guy! I'm so glad that karma had its say, you rarely see that in life or in books. I'm a sucker for hockey romances and this was no exception. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I did receive this, free, but my opinions are my own, I truly enjoyed this book.
I did receive this, free, but my opinions are my own, I truly enjoyed this book.
December 6, 2024
Can I say how refreshing it is to have a book WITHOUT a predictable third act break-up based on miscommunication between adults? I enjoyed this book from the beginning, but there were a few little crumbs laying around that seemed like they were going to culminate in the stereotypical 3rd act break-up. Then half way through when the MC's finally got together, I was pleasantly surprised that the MMC *immediately* laid everything out for the FMC, anything that might be construed as shady later and clearly communicated the situation. I was also impressed with Grace's reaction to it, she responded like a mature, secure adult. This theme really carried through the whole book and instead of a third act break-up, we got external conflict that was actually interesting and enjoyable to read that also answered a lot of the questions posed throughout the book. The pacing was good, the writing was well done for the genre and the characters were convincingly developed. The sex and chemistry was great and this had a fully fleshed out epilogue that didn't just dump us off at the end and instead was a satisfying conclusion to the story. Will definitely read this author in the future.
June 13, 2021
Stunning debut!
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. I don't think I stopped swooning for a minute whilst reading this. It starts out rocky, but damn does the delectable Noah redeem himself. Book boyfriend goals I tell you. He captured my heart from his very first chapter, and I wanted to hug him, among other dirty things cause that boy has a cheeky dirty side and a heart of damn gold.
The pacing was good, until the end where I felt it got a little rushed to give them the final happy ever after. The bonus epilogues were really sweet though, and I love Noah and Grace so much. I'll definitely be reading the rest of this series and hope these two pop up throughout.
Daphne is one to watch with this series and her writing career.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book.
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. I don't think I stopped swooning for a minute whilst reading this. It starts out rocky, but damn does the delectable Noah redeem himself. Book boyfriend goals I tell you. He captured my heart from his very first chapter, and I wanted to hug him, among other dirty things cause that boy has a cheeky dirty side and a heart of damn gold.
The pacing was good, until the end where I felt it got a little rushed to give them the final happy ever after. The bonus epilogues were really sweet though, and I love Noah and Grace so much. I'll definitely be reading the rest of this series and hope these two pop up throughout.
Daphne is one to watch with this series and her writing career.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book.
January 29, 2022
Daphne Slade certainly knows how to make an impression and arrest a reader's interest with that scandalous opening scene! And what a segue into this somewhat enemies to lovers it proved to be. Phew!
For three years, Noah Donaghue has endured his sin bin sentence, served by the hand of none other than Grace Arlington, while forced to endure watching her fall deeper into the toxic games and deceptions of an opposing interest. But, when the rules change and Grace’s summer “break” with her long-term boyfriend, Matt, comes to a close, he finally sees an opportunity to win her heart, and the crowd goes wild!
An angel dressed in the devil’s garb, Noah, is an endearing love interest, and not at all who I was expecting to find between these pages. Despite the ‘lady's man’ label branded over him in those early scenes, it became clear quickly the only lady to hold his interest was our Grace. He was sweet and witty - with just the right amount of cocky that he didn’t annoy - while also having that charming confidence about him. He was honorable in his pursuit, and there was an honesty and sincerity to his affections that we saw lacked in Matt’s regard. It’s no wonder Noah had so many admirers following in his wake!
The insecurities that Grace harbored and the confidence we saw bloom in their presence as the story progressed were handled well and aided in making her someone many readers could relate to and draw their own confidence from. I also admired how she handled the blunt reality check served regarding her ambitions versus those her family had groomed her for. There was a real maturity to both hers and Noah’s character, and the consistency in their communication and the natural chemistry that simmered between them made for an enjoyable romance amidst the challenges of college life.
I did, however, harbor a bit of a love-hate relationship towards the pacing of this book, especially regarding the first half. After that tantalizing opener and the obvious dislike that Grace felt towards the man she believed Noah to be, I’d been expecting a little more of a slow burn as they unraveled this history between them, and Noah fake-dated his way into her heart. Instead, everything moved quickly, and I missed that internal struggle for Grace as she grappled with both sides of the story and how she felt about both men involved. I felt she was a little too trusting too soon, and that they were jumping into bed together quicker than I’d expected. BUT, while I didn’t love how quickly things progressed, I appreciate why Noah was quick to be honest about his intentions with Grace and why he favored open communication (it's about pucking time) - we love a man who’s unashamedly honest, and regarding Grace’s history, this was a good call for the story.
With its tasteful chemistry and a plot twist you won’t see coming, The Devil You Know is an enjoyable read and a great introduction to the Devington Devils series. I look forward to checking out Evan’s story next!
I received a review copy for free, thanks to booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For three years, Noah Donaghue has endured his sin bin sentence, served by the hand of none other than Grace Arlington, while forced to endure watching her fall deeper into the toxic games and deceptions of an opposing interest. But, when the rules change and Grace’s summer “break” with her long-term boyfriend, Matt, comes to a close, he finally sees an opportunity to win her heart, and the crowd goes wild!
An angel dressed in the devil’s garb, Noah, is an endearing love interest, and not at all who I was expecting to find between these pages. Despite the ‘lady's man’ label branded over him in those early scenes, it became clear quickly the only lady to hold his interest was our Grace. He was sweet and witty - with just the right amount of cocky that he didn’t annoy - while also having that charming confidence about him. He was honorable in his pursuit, and there was an honesty and sincerity to his affections that we saw lacked in Matt’s regard. It’s no wonder Noah had so many admirers following in his wake!
The insecurities that Grace harbored and the confidence we saw bloom in their presence as the story progressed were handled well and aided in making her someone many readers could relate to and draw their own confidence from. I also admired how she handled the blunt reality check served regarding her ambitions versus those her family had groomed her for. There was a real maturity to both hers and Noah’s character, and the consistency in their communication and the natural chemistry that simmered between them made for an enjoyable romance amidst the challenges of college life.
I did, however, harbor a bit of a love-hate relationship towards the pacing of this book, especially regarding the first half. After that tantalizing opener and the obvious dislike that Grace felt towards the man she believed Noah to be, I’d been expecting a little more of a slow burn as they unraveled this history between them, and Noah fake-dated his way into her heart. Instead, everything moved quickly, and I missed that internal struggle for Grace as she grappled with both sides of the story and how she felt about both men involved. I felt she was a little too trusting too soon, and that they were jumping into bed together quicker than I’d expected. BUT, while I didn’t love how quickly things progressed, I appreciate why Noah was quick to be honest about his intentions with Grace and why he favored open communication (it's about pucking time) - we love a man who’s unashamedly honest, and regarding Grace’s history, this was a good call for the story.
With its tasteful chemistry and a plot twist you won’t see coming, The Devil You Know is an enjoyable read and a great introduction to the Devington Devils series. I look forward to checking out Evan’s story next!
I received a review copy for free, thanks to booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 9, 2021
I would say this book is about a 3.5 for me, and that's not usually how I rate, but I feel this one calls for it.
I couldn't quite give it a four, for a couple of reasons.
The way Noah and Grace came together happened a little fast for me. I didn't expect Grace to believe what Noah said right away, I expected a bit more push and pull from how Slade set her up in the beginning chapters. There wasn't a lot of the "fake" dating before the real stuff began, which kind of coincides with my previous reason. I just felt that how they came together was a bit too fast paced. I was expecting more of a slow burn, but since they weren't true enemies-not at all on Noah's end-I can see why it didn't happen that way.
It just didn't hit my sweet spot when it comes to contemporary romances, in those instances.
However, there were many things that I adored about this book, hence the .5 increase versus a straight laced star. For one, I loved how much Noah cared and wanted Grace. From the beginning he was after her, and his intentions were honorable, which is part of the reason why I liked them as a couple. Despite how I wasn't a fan of how quickly they got together, I still enjoyed reading them as a couple.
They were sweet, honest, and had great communication, the latter being one of the most common things to break couples up in romance novels. I enjoyed that absent factor, mostly because it showed the maturity of the two characters.
The development of Grace was fast, but it worked for me. In this instance, the fast paced of it went hand in hand with how Matt made her feel. The reader can really see the number he did on her self esteem in those moments where Grace realized her insecurities really shouldn't have been insecurities at all.
And the twist at the end? That really brought up my rating as well. I really wasn't expecting it to turn out that way. For one, they DIDN'T break up, which almost ALWAYS happens. Another, I wasn't expecting the person that did all the shady things to have actually done it. I was expecting someone else, and even though there was some fuckery with that one, it wasn't the bulk of the issues.
Serious shocker, honestly. Like, I was completely surprised with how it panned out.
I liked that, though.
Overall, I enjoyed Noah and Grace as a couple. They had some extremely cute moments that made me smile and laugh, and I enjoyed reading their interactions with all the secondary characters, especially their parents. Noah's definitely hit the top spot for me on that one.
Even though the steam wasn't as intense as I was hoping for it to be, I still liked cruising through those scenes and the aftermath.
On a final note-since I know this is a long review-I plan to read the other books in the series, especially Cole's, let me tell you. I was hoping he would be second, but I knew it was Evan. Fingers crossed that he will be third, considering the bonus epilogue.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I couldn't quite give it a four, for a couple of reasons.
The way Noah and Grace came together happened a little fast for me. I didn't expect Grace to believe what Noah said right away, I expected a bit more push and pull from how Slade set her up in the beginning chapters. There wasn't a lot of the "fake" dating before the real stuff began, which kind of coincides with my previous reason. I just felt that how they came together was a bit too fast paced. I was expecting more of a slow burn, but since they weren't true enemies-not at all on Noah's end-I can see why it didn't happen that way.
It just didn't hit my sweet spot when it comes to contemporary romances, in those instances.
However, there were many things that I adored about this book, hence the .5 increase versus a straight laced star. For one, I loved how much Noah cared and wanted Grace. From the beginning he was after her, and his intentions were honorable, which is part of the reason why I liked them as a couple. Despite how I wasn't a fan of how quickly they got together, I still enjoyed reading them as a couple.
They were sweet, honest, and had great communication, the latter being one of the most common things to break couples up in romance novels. I enjoyed that absent factor, mostly because it showed the maturity of the two characters.
The development of Grace was fast, but it worked for me. In this instance, the fast paced of it went hand in hand with how Matt made her feel. The reader can really see the number he did on her self esteem in those moments where Grace realized her insecurities really shouldn't have been insecurities at all.
And the twist at the end? That really brought up my rating as well. I really wasn't expecting it to turn out that way. For one, they DIDN'T break up, which almost ALWAYS happens. Another, I wasn't expecting the person that did all the shady things to have actually done it. I was expecting someone else, and even though there was some fuckery with that one, it wasn't the bulk of the issues.
Serious shocker, honestly. Like, I was completely surprised with how it panned out.
I liked that, though.
Overall, I enjoyed Noah and Grace as a couple. They had some extremely cute moments that made me smile and laugh, and I enjoyed reading their interactions with all the secondary characters, especially their parents. Noah's definitely hit the top spot for me on that one.
Even though the steam wasn't as intense as I was hoping for it to be, I still liked cruising through those scenes and the aftermath.
On a final note-since I know this is a long review-I plan to read the other books in the series, especially Cole's, let me tell you. I was hoping he would be second, but I knew it was Evan. Fingers crossed that he will be third, considering the bonus epilogue.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2021
This was a good start to the series. If you like a sorta enemies to lovers feel with hockey mixed in the storyline you should definitely grab this book.
Grace's character was a little bit of a neurotic and at times uptight about everything. So in the beginning I wasn't sure if I truly liked her character but as the storyline evolves you get a better feel for her character. Poor Grace is from an uptight wealthy family who seem to only care about materialistic things and how you present yourself to others. So her not going straight to Harvard and ending up in a so called safety school was utter disappointment for her family. You get to see how a misunderstanding sets a three year events into place with her and Noah. You see a girl who has always felt like a disappointment or never good enough to her family and even her boyfriend at the time. You watch as what she thought she wants changes when an unexpected surprise occurs that brings her and Noah together finally. You see someone let go of all the pain and self consciousness she once held to find her voice finally.
Noah is known as the perfect hockey player who seems to have it all in looks to his picks of females. But looks can be deceiving because it's not all he truly is and we start to see a guy who is not only sweet and caring but a guy who has sat by and watched the love of his life be with a uncaring and selfish jerk all because he's on the same team. Noah has the bright idea to help Grace win back her ex as his excuse to get her to like him instead. It totally doesn't go as planned but it does bring them together in a whole different way. He is the perfect guy for her since he is laid back and affectionate and those are things Grace has never truly had. He opens her up to new things as they discover how low her ex can go when he doesn't get his way.
This story moves at a fast pace in terms of the relationship between Noah and Grace but it delves into a lot of what happen to cause the hate Grace seem to have towards Noah. It had a who is really out to sabotage their relationship and why feel. You get to see how controlling both Grace's family and her ex was with her emotions and how Noah never fails her. This is not a slow burn romance per se but more of a misunderstanding to a fast relationship between these two. Definitely recommend it if you want a college feel romance with some steam and a few twists in their journey to a HEA.
I was voluntarily signed up to read an ARC provided by booksirens with nothing to gain from it to than my honest opinion and review.
Grace's character was a little bit of a neurotic and at times uptight about everything. So in the beginning I wasn't sure if I truly liked her character but as the storyline evolves you get a better feel for her character. Poor Grace is from an uptight wealthy family who seem to only care about materialistic things and how you present yourself to others. So her not going straight to Harvard and ending up in a so called safety school was utter disappointment for her family. You get to see how a misunderstanding sets a three year events into place with her and Noah. You see a girl who has always felt like a disappointment or never good enough to her family and even her boyfriend at the time. You watch as what she thought she wants changes when an unexpected surprise occurs that brings her and Noah together finally. You see someone let go of all the pain and self consciousness she once held to find her voice finally.
Noah is known as the perfect hockey player who seems to have it all in looks to his picks of females. But looks can be deceiving because it's not all he truly is and we start to see a guy who is not only sweet and caring but a guy who has sat by and watched the love of his life be with a uncaring and selfish jerk all because he's on the same team. Noah has the bright idea to help Grace win back her ex as his excuse to get her to like him instead. It totally doesn't go as planned but it does bring them together in a whole different way. He is the perfect guy for her since he is laid back and affectionate and those are things Grace has never truly had. He opens her up to new things as they discover how low her ex can go when he doesn't get his way.
This story moves at a fast pace in terms of the relationship between Noah and Grace but it delves into a lot of what happen to cause the hate Grace seem to have towards Noah. It had a who is really out to sabotage their relationship and why feel. You get to see how controlling both Grace's family and her ex was with her emotions and how Noah never fails her. This is not a slow burn romance per se but more of a misunderstanding to a fast relationship between these two. Definitely recommend it if you want a college feel romance with some steam and a few twists in their journey to a HEA.
I was voluntarily signed up to read an ARC provided by booksirens with nothing to gain from it to than my honest opinion and review.
July 25, 2021
Rated 3.5-4.0 stars. I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Grace Arlington absolutely knew that Noah Donahue, the stunningly gorgeous hockey captain, was 100% the last person she wanted to spend senior year with. Apparently her boyfriend of 3+ years did not get that memo when he decided that they would be going on an extended "break". As her perfectly laid plans crumble around her, Noah offers a lifeline: pretend to be in a fake relationship to get Matt back. But pretending to be in a relationship with Noah might be more dangerous than Grace thought because Noah plays to win and maybe, just maybe, Noah Donahue was not the last person she wanted to be around.
Daphne Slade introduces readers to her new adult, enemies-to-lovers, sports romance with a determined hockey-god and the intense planner who just wants to everything to be back to normal. Grace and Noah's story was a bit of a whirlwind that started out slow and rapidly gained speed, with events tumbling into place to wrap the story up. With over 300 pages, Slade manages to keep her readers' attention with her sweet romance, but improved pacing would greatly benefit Noah and Grace's story. Noah's dedication to Grace and his determination to keep her remains one of the highlights of The Devil You Know, along with the commitment to communication that saved Grace and Noah's relationship. Personally, I loved Noah's character. He was excellently thought out and developed as a mature, determined, college athlete. Grace, however, took some time for me to get used to, mostly due to her relationship with Matt. (I mean you think you would know someone after 3 years of dating them.) All in all, if you like college romances with actual sports talk, fake romances that are way more real than fake, and a sweet ending to an enemies-to-lovers start, The Devil You Know should be next on your to-read bookshelf.
Grace Arlington absolutely knew that Noah Donahue, the stunningly gorgeous hockey captain, was 100% the last person she wanted to spend senior year with. Apparently her boyfriend of 3+ years did not get that memo when he decided that they would be going on an extended "break". As her perfectly laid plans crumble around her, Noah offers a lifeline: pretend to be in a fake relationship to get Matt back. But pretending to be in a relationship with Noah might be more dangerous than Grace thought because Noah plays to win and maybe, just maybe, Noah Donahue was not the last person she wanted to be around.
Daphne Slade introduces readers to her new adult, enemies-to-lovers, sports romance with a determined hockey-god and the intense planner who just wants to everything to be back to normal. Grace and Noah's story was a bit of a whirlwind that started out slow and rapidly gained speed, with events tumbling into place to wrap the story up. With over 300 pages, Slade manages to keep her readers' attention with her sweet romance, but improved pacing would greatly benefit Noah and Grace's story. Noah's dedication to Grace and his determination to keep her remains one of the highlights of The Devil You Know, along with the commitment to communication that saved Grace and Noah's relationship. Personally, I loved Noah's character. He was excellently thought out and developed as a mature, determined, college athlete. Grace, however, took some time for me to get used to, mostly due to her relationship with Matt. (I mean you think you would know someone after 3 years of dating them.) All in all, if you like college romances with actual sports talk, fake romances that are way more real than fake, and a sweet ending to an enemies-to-lovers start, The Devil You Know should be next on your to-read bookshelf.
June 13, 2021
I stumbled upon this book when it was offered as an ARC through Hidden Gems. I enjoy sports romance and the blurb appealed with the added tropes of fake dating and enemies to lovers.
As the school year is ready to start Grace decides to spice things up with her boyfriend (Matt) of 3 years who asked to take a break at the end of their junior year. She uses her key to get into his apartment and handcuffs herself blindfolded to his bed will wearing sexy underwear. Unfortunately, her plan goes astray when a teammate comes to Matt’s apartment to pickup a forgotten wallet.
Grace is distraught a few days later when Matt tells her he doesn’t want to get back together now, but strings her along with the possibility of them finding out they were meant to be after all.
Grace’s longtime nemesis and her unintended rescuer from her handcuffs suggests he has a sure fire plan for her to get back with Matt. His suggestion is guys always want what they can’t have so he suggests they fake date to stoke Matt’s jealousy and bring him running back to her.
The author slowly reveals a significant amount of misunderstandings, purposeful deception by third parties, secret longings and so much more keep this book entertaining and kept my attention as Grace and Noah discover each other and begin a secret real relationship.
Grace has been raised to please her family at the cost of her self esteem and following her true interests. So much of her life has been planned around what her parents want or how they would react to her choices/decisions. Escaping that emotional trap isn’t something Grace will find easy.
This was an enjoyable read with plenty of twists and subplots to keep you reading until the end.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I’m interested in reading future stories about Noah’s teammates.
As the school year is ready to start Grace decides to spice things up with her boyfriend (Matt) of 3 years who asked to take a break at the end of their junior year. She uses her key to get into his apartment and handcuffs herself blindfolded to his bed will wearing sexy underwear. Unfortunately, her plan goes astray when a teammate comes to Matt’s apartment to pickup a forgotten wallet.
Grace is distraught a few days later when Matt tells her he doesn’t want to get back together now, but strings her along with the possibility of them finding out they were meant to be after all.
Grace’s longtime nemesis and her unintended rescuer from her handcuffs suggests he has a sure fire plan for her to get back with Matt. His suggestion is guys always want what they can’t have so he suggests they fake date to stoke Matt’s jealousy and bring him running back to her.
The author slowly reveals a significant amount of misunderstandings, purposeful deception by third parties, secret longings and so much more keep this book entertaining and kept my attention as Grace and Noah discover each other and begin a secret real relationship.
Grace has been raised to please her family at the cost of her self esteem and following her true interests. So much of her life has been planned around what her parents want or how they would react to her choices/decisions. Escaping that emotional trap isn’t something Grace will find easy.
This was an enjoyable read with plenty of twists and subplots to keep you reading until the end.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I’m interested in reading future stories about Noah’s teammates.
June 12, 2021
This book was sweet, sexy,and hilarious from the first page to the last epilogue you really feel like you've gone on a journey with Noah and Grace.
They say breaking up is hard to do but what if your not ready for it to end and what if the guy you spent the last 3 years of college with is not who you thought they were like major scumbag but all that comes later in a very sweet comeuppance. Grace thinks Matt is it till he says he wants to go for a break there senior year Grace is confused and blind sided enter her greatest enemy Noah mister I'm a gift and a prize on and of the hockey ice to sexy to confident and all the sudden he wants to help her with her Matt problem why.
Noah has spent 3 years wanting something that wasn't his and now it's like a gift if he can only keep her his Grace. Her ex is going to be a problem and as team captain he needs to keep the piece and achieve his goal to get into the NHL. There enemies to lover's is short lived but still enough to keep the story interesting and I enjoyed the fact that Noah was so honest with Grace about everything and she didn't flip out and walk away from him instead she chose to embrace this new relationship even if it was a little complicated in the beginning.
I absolutely loved Noah hes charming and more then just a smile he worships Grace and there perfect for each other even if other people put a whole lot of drama in there way the other side characters are interesting too not just background can't wait to read about Noah's friends.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
They say breaking up is hard to do but what if your not ready for it to end and what if the guy you spent the last 3 years of college with is not who you thought they were like major scumbag but all that comes later in a very sweet comeuppance. Grace thinks Matt is it till he says he wants to go for a break there senior year Grace is confused and blind sided enter her greatest enemy Noah mister I'm a gift and a prize on and of the hockey ice to sexy to confident and all the sudden he wants to help her with her Matt problem why.
Noah has spent 3 years wanting something that wasn't his and now it's like a gift if he can only keep her his Grace. Her ex is going to be a problem and as team captain he needs to keep the piece and achieve his goal to get into the NHL. There enemies to lover's is short lived but still enough to keep the story interesting and I enjoyed the fact that Noah was so honest with Grace about everything and she didn't flip out and walk away from him instead she chose to embrace this new relationship even if it was a little complicated in the beginning.
I absolutely loved Noah hes charming and more then just a smile he worships Grace and there perfect for each other even if other people put a whole lot of drama in there way the other side characters are interesting too not just background can't wait to read about Noah's friends.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
July 23, 2021
I always forget how much I enjoy these sports romance books. This was a really good one! I don’t think I’d read a Daphne Slade book before this and I thought this was a great.
University hockey captain, Noah Donahue, has finally got the girl of his dreams after three years of sitting on the sidelines and Grace Arlington just spent the last three years dating someone she thought she knew. It’s their senior year at Devington University and what started as fake relationship quickly morphed into the real thing once truths were revealed and the initial attraction that they both felt for each other from their first class freshman year came back in full force. They wasted no time rekindling that spark and it was like they were meant to be. Noah is oozing bad boy charm and Grace seems fragile at first but now that she’s backed by someone as supportive and uplifting as Noah, she’s found her strength to make the changes she needs in her life to be happy. I really, really enjoyed this book! Their quick witty banter and the flirting had me grinning ear to ear, the school drama had me making guesses at who was the problem, and the hope of karma was fulfilled spectacularly. Soooo good. I always enjoy these sports books because I love team camaraderie it it was in full force on the Devington Devils hockey team. I enjoy seeing super supportive characters and especially supportive family. This was such a good read! Easily recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
University hockey captain, Noah Donahue, has finally got the girl of his dreams after three years of sitting on the sidelines and Grace Arlington just spent the last three years dating someone she thought she knew. It’s their senior year at Devington University and what started as fake relationship quickly morphed into the real thing once truths were revealed and the initial attraction that they both felt for each other from their first class freshman year came back in full force. They wasted no time rekindling that spark and it was like they were meant to be. Noah is oozing bad boy charm and Grace seems fragile at first but now that she’s backed by someone as supportive and uplifting as Noah, she’s found her strength to make the changes she needs in her life to be happy. I really, really enjoyed this book! Their quick witty banter and the flirting had me grinning ear to ear, the school drama had me making guesses at who was the problem, and the hope of karma was fulfilled spectacularly. Soooo good. I always enjoy these sports books because I love team camaraderie it it was in full force on the Devington Devils hockey team. I enjoy seeing super supportive characters and especially supportive family. This was such a good read! Easily recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
July 17, 2021
Daphne Slade is a new-to-me author, and I must say that I was quite impressed by this book and intend on reading more of her work. The Devil You Know is a ‘New Adult’ college sports romance, which I am a sucker for! When I first started reading this story, I was worried that I would spend the whole book wanting to slap the female lead to get her to wake up, luckily she started to develop gumption and backbone! I loved the action and banter between the two MC’s that was hilarious and helped to highlight the explosive chemistry between the two of them that lead to some very steamy scenes! These characters were very well developed and made for a very exciting read.
There were a couple of things that I especially enjoyed with this story; two young MC’s that communicate to resolve their issues and disagreements (hallelujah!); and reading a story where you experience an extended period into their life as a couple. I also loved the additional intrigue and interesting side characters, who you can envisage getting their own books in the series.
I have to say this story has definite echoes of Elle Kennedy’s Briar U series for me (which I love) and I look forward to seeing where this series heads to next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There were a couple of things that I especially enjoyed with this story; two young MC’s that communicate to resolve their issues and disagreements (hallelujah!); and reading a story where you experience an extended period into their life as a couple. I also loved the additional intrigue and interesting side characters, who you can envisage getting their own books in the series.
I have to say this story has definite echoes of Elle Kennedy’s Briar U series for me (which I love) and I look forward to seeing where this series heads to next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2022
I liked this new adult college sports romance. It is enemies to friends to lovers.
Noah and Grace is just amazing together even though they start out very rocky.
She is in a relationship with his best friend from the college hockey team but suddenly after three years he wants a break from their relationship so he can be free the last year of college but he also wants her to stay free on the sideline so he can come back to her when he is ready.
He kind of has this need to be like Noah who is known to be a bit of a manwhore, free and single and the best hockey player on the team.
But now Grace is single Noah sees his chance to go after her.
I think Grace was a little too gullible but I also understand her and she is not the only person who is too gullible towards this horrible person who manipulates to get what they want.
It is a story full of angst, manipulation, great friends who are so supportive, a horrible person who will do anything to get revenge, a great plot, yearning, growling, great steam and such a swoon worthy romance that you just can’t help to rut for.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series about Evan Huntington and the woman who is hired to be the assistant to the hockey team.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Noah and Grace is just amazing together even though they start out very rocky.
She is in a relationship with his best friend from the college hockey team but suddenly after three years he wants a break from their relationship so he can be free the last year of college but he also wants her to stay free on the sideline so he can come back to her when he is ready.
He kind of has this need to be like Noah who is known to be a bit of a manwhore, free and single and the best hockey player on the team.
But now Grace is single Noah sees his chance to go after her.
I think Grace was a little too gullible but I also understand her and she is not the only person who is too gullible towards this horrible person who manipulates to get what they want.
It is a story full of angst, manipulation, great friends who are so supportive, a horrible person who will do anything to get revenge, a great plot, yearning, growling, great steam and such a swoon worthy romance that you just can’t help to rut for.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series about Evan Huntington and the woman who is hired to be the assistant to the hockey team.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆," 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔. "𝑱𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈."
- Hockey Romance
- Fake dating
- Enemies to lovers
- Dual POV
This is the first book in the Devington devils series.
I love the fake dating trope so I was excited to get into this, however there just wasn't enough of it for me. I loved Noah straight away! He was cheeky and knew exactly who and what he wanted. Grace was a bit different, I felt like she was a bit back and forth too much for my liking. I wish there was more tension and build up between Grace and Noah, however seeing her character development towards the end did help me like her more.
The story felt like it moved very fast and there was some parts that I wish were extended out more. I wish we could have seen more of the fake dating as this is one of the big things that convinced me to read it.
I did love actually seeing some hockey scenes and locker room scenes as that helped to understand the team dynamic and opened it up to us to start to see more of a glimpse of the other hockey players.
I feel like this book had so much potential but just fell a little short for me. However I will be giving the second book a go as I would love to see more of the teammates and how their stories develop.
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆," 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔. "𝑱𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈."
- Hockey Romance
- Fake dating
- Enemies to lovers
- Dual POV
This is the first book in the Devington devils series.
I love the fake dating trope so I was excited to get into this, however there just wasn't enough of it for me. I loved Noah straight away! He was cheeky and knew exactly who and what he wanted. Grace was a bit different, I felt like she was a bit back and forth too much for my liking. I wish there was more tension and build up between Grace and Noah, however seeing her character development towards the end did help me like her more.
The story felt like it moved very fast and there was some parts that I wish were extended out more. I wish we could have seen more of the fake dating as this is one of the big things that convinced me to read it.
I did love actually seeing some hockey scenes and locker room scenes as that helped to understand the team dynamic and opened it up to us to start to see more of a glimpse of the other hockey players.
I feel like this book had so much potential but just fell a little short for me. However I will be giving the second book a go as I would love to see more of the teammates and how their stories develop.
August 7, 2022
3.5 Stars for The Devil You Know!
This is a fun, easy to read college romance by Daphne Slade. The story starts out as an enemy to lovers & fake dating scenario but quickly takes an unpredictable turn. There's even a little bit of suspense and mystery built in as the couple tries to settle into a new romance.
My favorite thing about this story was how well it dealt with subjects of mentally abusive relationships as well as living your life for yourself. The transformation of the MC from start to finish was inspiring. Another thing I really appreciated was the dual perspective that wasn't just ping ponged back and forth, but transitioned from one to another in a natural fitting way. I especially loved some of the supporting characters and am excited to read their stories.
One thing I didn't like as much was how quick the story went from enemies to lovers. I felt like something was missing in the chemistry and maybe it was the lack of angst too soon in the story. I also just think this story was over too quickly. The characters were so likable I would have loved to see more moments of them bonding.
I would recommend this book if your looking for a fun easy read. I will look for other books by this author especially in this series.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
This is a fun, easy to read college romance by Daphne Slade. The story starts out as an enemy to lovers & fake dating scenario but quickly takes an unpredictable turn. There's even a little bit of suspense and mystery built in as the couple tries to settle into a new romance.
My favorite thing about this story was how well it dealt with subjects of mentally abusive relationships as well as living your life for yourself. The transformation of the MC from start to finish was inspiring. Another thing I really appreciated was the dual perspective that wasn't just ping ponged back and forth, but transitioned from one to another in a natural fitting way. I especially loved some of the supporting characters and am excited to read their stories.
One thing I didn't like as much was how quick the story went from enemies to lovers. I felt like something was missing in the chemistry and maybe it was the lack of angst too soon in the story. I also just think this story was over too quickly. The characters were so likable I would have loved to see more moments of them bonding.
I would recommend this book if your looking for a fun easy read. I will look for other books by this author especially in this series.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 8, 2025
Book Review: The Devil You Know by Daphne Slade
If you love enemies-to-lovers romance with hockey, witty banter, and sizzling chemistry, The Devil You Know by Daphne Slade is a must-read. This book, the first in the Devington Devils Hockey Romance series, follows Noah Donahue, the confident and skilled starting center for Devington University’s hockey team, and Grace Arlington, a determined and independent planner who wants nothing to do with him—at least at first.
From the very beginning, the tension between Noah and Grace is electric. Their flirty fights and sarcastic comebacks had me grinning the entire time. The slow burn was so well done, and I loved watching their relationship evolve from frustration to undeniable attraction. Plus, the friendships and team dynamics in the book added so much depth to the story.
That said, some parts of the plot were a bit predictable, following familiar romance tropes. But honestly? I didn’t mind. The execution, the humor, and the undeniable charm of the characters kept me hooked.
Overall, The Devil You Know is a fun, steamy, and heartwarming sports romance. If you love college hockey, strong female leads, and swoon-worthy banter, this book is perfect for you. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you love enemies-to-lovers romance with hockey, witty banter, and sizzling chemistry, The Devil You Know by Daphne Slade is a must-read. This book, the first in the Devington Devils Hockey Romance series, follows Noah Donahue, the confident and skilled starting center for Devington University’s hockey team, and Grace Arlington, a determined and independent planner who wants nothing to do with him—at least at first.
From the very beginning, the tension between Noah and Grace is electric. Their flirty fights and sarcastic comebacks had me grinning the entire time. The slow burn was so well done, and I loved watching their relationship evolve from frustration to undeniable attraction. Plus, the friendships and team dynamics in the book added so much depth to the story.
That said, some parts of the plot were a bit predictable, following familiar romance tropes. But honestly? I didn’t mind. The execution, the humor, and the undeniable charm of the characters kept me hooked.
Overall, The Devil You Know is a fun, steamy, and heartwarming sports romance. If you love college hockey, strong female leads, and swoon-worthy banter, this book is perfect for you. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2021
Fun, sexy, and a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Grace Arlington looks at things long-term. Her education, her future career, her boyfriend, Matt. Everything was planned and laid out, but when her “perfect” future-husband suggests extending their current relationship ‘break’, she is suddenly at a loss. Good thing her boyfriend’s best friend, Noah, is there to help her win Matt back… or is he? Confessions from both sides bring to light long hidden secrets and Grace realizes that even the best laid plans may not always be the best choice.
Well, I think new adult may be my new guilty pleasure. I have to say that this was actually a really fun read. Grace and Noah were great mains, and the chemistry between them was absolutely on fire. I thought their relationship progressed well, albeit it moving faster than expected. I’m glad the author didn’t lose sight of the larger picture and included a good amount of plot as well as steamy scenes. Also, as a hockey fan, I also appreciated the games too. Overall, an easy, sweet read and looking forward to seeing what happens with the rest of the Devils.
Thank you Voracious Readers and Daphne Slade for my copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Grace Arlington looks at things long-term. Her education, her future career, her boyfriend, Matt. Everything was planned and laid out, but when her “perfect” future-husband suggests extending their current relationship ‘break’, she is suddenly at a loss. Good thing her boyfriend’s best friend, Noah, is there to help her win Matt back… or is he? Confessions from both sides bring to light long hidden secrets and Grace realizes that even the best laid plans may not always be the best choice.
Well, I think new adult may be my new guilty pleasure. I have to say that this was actually a really fun read. Grace and Noah were great mains, and the chemistry between them was absolutely on fire. I thought their relationship progressed well, albeit it moving faster than expected. I’m glad the author didn’t lose sight of the larger picture and included a good amount of plot as well as steamy scenes. Also, as a hockey fan, I also appreciated the games too. Overall, an easy, sweet read and looking forward to seeing what happens with the rest of the Devils.
Thank you Voracious Readers and Daphne Slade for my copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 22, 2022
This was a SUPER quick read! When I first started it, I’m not gonna lie, 48 chapters and two epilogues kind of overwhelmed me. I’ve read some books with that many chapters and it seems like it goes on forever! Thankfully that was the complete opposite for this book. I would start reading and before I knew it I’d be another 20% into the book, which is amazing.
I also really liked that the main characters did not break up at any point. Pretty much every other book has something that causes them to split before eventually getting back together. It was nice to just skip that part. I liked that they were adult enough to work things out and push through. It also didn’t hurt that the main “conflicts” came from side characters. I’m looking at you Matt (you suck). And I unfortunately was suspicious of Heidi, she just seemed way too good to be true. Girl, I am so sorry for doubting you. You’re amazing!
I’m very much into Noah and would definitely like one of my own. Please and thank you!
I really wanna get my hands on the rest of this series and see what happens with Evan, Cole and Reid! I’d also be interested in reading Heidi and Josh’s novella!!
I received an eARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also really liked that the main characters did not break up at any point. Pretty much every other book has something that causes them to split before eventually getting back together. It was nice to just skip that part. I liked that they were adult enough to work things out and push through. It also didn’t hurt that the main “conflicts” came from side characters. I’m looking at you Matt (you suck). And I unfortunately was suspicious of Heidi, she just seemed way too good to be true. Girl, I am so sorry for doubting you. You’re amazing!
I’m very much into Noah and would definitely like one of my own. Please and thank you!
I really wanna get my hands on the rest of this series and see what happens with Evan, Cole and Reid! I’d also be interested in reading Heidi and Josh’s novella!!
I received an eARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2021
This was quirky, funny, Noah was charming, and has one of my favourite tropes: fake dating!
BUT
I have no respect for Grace. This is a case of the character ruined the story. Once I already thought of her as desperate, out of touch with reality, and slightly psychotic it was difficult to then root for Noah and her to be together. The back of mind was screaming run Noah!!
The first chapter opens with Grace having broken into her ex-boyfriends apartment after misinterpreting him forgetting to ask for her key back as a sign he wants her to commit a B&E to surprise him after months of no contact....thats pure stalker behaviour and a reason to get a restraining order. RED FLAGS. Grace continued to get more pathetic from there as her ex-boyfriend tries to let her down easy by using the term "break" but making it clear they should date other people and instead of having some self respect Grace is determined to get him back. My opinion of Grace might have changed if she worked on herself, but it seemed more like she jus transferred her obsession to Noah.
BUT
I have no respect for Grace. This is a case of the character ruined the story. Once I already thought of her as desperate, out of touch with reality, and slightly psychotic it was difficult to then root for Noah and her to be together. The back of mind was screaming run Noah!!
The first chapter opens with Grace having broken into her ex-boyfriends apartment after misinterpreting him forgetting to ask for her key back as a sign he wants her to commit a B&E to surprise him after months of no contact....thats pure stalker behaviour and a reason to get a restraining order. RED FLAGS. Grace continued to get more pathetic from there as her ex-boyfriend tries to let her down easy by using the term "break" but making it clear they should date other people and instead of having some self respect Grace is determined to get him back. My opinion of Grace might have changed if she worked on herself, but it seemed more like she jus transferred her obsession to Noah.
June 14, 2021
4.5-stars for book 1 of the Devington Devils Hockey Romance series
This is the first book I have read written by Daphne Slade and I was surprised how much I enjoyed the book, especially since sports romance especially hockey is my favorite genre. My one and only suggestion is to make the stories a bit shorter. By mid-way through the book I was getting a bit bored with the ﹰMatt' relationship parts of the book, but didn't feel that same 'ok enough about' thought when it came to the 'Noah' relationship part of the book. With that being said this book is not a menage but it is well written and the last 30% of book was my favorite so don't give up while read because of the book length because the HEA is worth it!
I would definitely recommend The Devil You Know and I can't wait to read the next one in this series.
Even though I did receive an advanced review copy of this book, I also purchased the book/read with KU and am voluntarily leaving my own voluntary, unsolicited opinion with this review.
This is the first book I have read written by Daphne Slade and I was surprised how much I enjoyed the book, especially since sports romance especially hockey is my favorite genre. My one and only suggestion is to make the stories a bit shorter. By mid-way through the book I was getting a bit bored with the ﹰMatt' relationship parts of the book, but didn't feel that same 'ok enough about' thought when it came to the 'Noah' relationship part of the book. With that being said this book is not a menage but it is well written and the last 30% of book was my favorite so don't give up while read because of the book length because the HEA is worth it!
I would definitely recommend The Devil You Know and I can't wait to read the next one in this series.
Even though I did receive an advanced review copy of this book, I also purchased the book/read with KU and am voluntarily leaving my own voluntary, unsolicited opinion with this review.
September 21, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Honestly, I love myself a college sports romance. I’m a sucker for it, really.
I did love Noah, a lot, dude has got game and does fit the jock description well. However there was just something missing with the chemistry between the characters.
I believe there was no build-up between them, the anticipation was lacking because the two got together as quick as possible and that didn’t bode well with me, because we didn’t see actual fights or a relationship between the two the way it’s meant to be.
Grace as a character was very different in the beginning but I didn’t see a gradual change. The whole dropping what she was doing because of family pressure was a sudden euphoria moment, play there was never an indication of what she actually loved and wanted to do except when she actually says it.
Overall, I’d give this story a 3.5 because I did love the male lead. He seemed less of a douchebag and more of a nice guy which I always love about my male leads.
Honestly, I love myself a college sports romance. I’m a sucker for it, really.
I did love Noah, a lot, dude has got game and does fit the jock description well. However there was just something missing with the chemistry between the characters.
I believe there was no build-up between them, the anticipation was lacking because the two got together as quick as possible and that didn’t bode well with me, because we didn’t see actual fights or a relationship between the two the way it’s meant to be.
Grace as a character was very different in the beginning but I didn’t see a gradual change. The whole dropping what she was doing because of family pressure was a sudden euphoria moment, play there was never an indication of what she actually loved and wanted to do except when she actually says it.
Overall, I’d give this story a 3.5 because I did love the male lead. He seemed less of a douchebag and more of a nice guy which I always love about my male leads.
June 17, 2021
This is the debut novel for Daphne Slade and I loved it. It is a sports romance enemies to lovers trope. So we have Grace who is coming back to finish her last year in college. Only it does not start off the way she wants. So her boyfriend Matt asked for a break from each other. Well how is this going to turn out. Then we have Noah. So what is his deal? There are some funny moments as you read this book between Noah and Grace. Noah decides he will help Grace get Matt back. Hmm, this is interesting right? I can say that the story line did not disappoint. There is mystery and betrayals. The chemistry with Noah and Grace is on point and you want to hope that something will come out of it. So how does it all end once everything was revealed. You need to check it out to see. I was very happy how everything all ended and I gotta say that I definitely want more of the Devington Devils. I can't wait.
July 12, 2021
What a Devil!
This is the first book in the Devils series - and it’s off to a good start!
Noah is the captain of the Devils hockey team and he has a mad crush on his teammates girl - but nothing can happen because of the team and their dynamic. He’s a senior with aspirations of going pro so he needs this year to be the beast ever.
But what can happen when your teammate “takes a break” with the girl he has all the feels for - and he stupidly makes a bet with him he can get the girl? Well let’s just say things get interesting really fast!
Will Noah win Grace over with his charm and devilish ways? Or will she get back together with Matt - the man she thinks is the answer to all her dreams?
I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait for the next installment of this devishly good series!
This is the first book in the Devils series - and it’s off to a good start!
Noah is the captain of the Devils hockey team and he has a mad crush on his teammates girl - but nothing can happen because of the team and their dynamic. He’s a senior with aspirations of going pro so he needs this year to be the beast ever.
But what can happen when your teammate “takes a break” with the girl he has all the feels for - and he stupidly makes a bet with him he can get the girl? Well let’s just say things get interesting really fast!
Will Noah win Grace over with his charm and devilish ways? Or will she get back together with Matt - the man she thinks is the answer to all her dreams?
I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait for the next installment of this devishly good series!
March 12, 2023
!! I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily based on my opinions of the story!!
Wow. This book was just.. amazing. It's one of my first real contemporary enemies-to-lovers romances as I usually stick to that trope in fantasy but boy did it deliver. I was a bit hesitant at first though because from the description of the book it seemed to be a fake dating story and though it had those aspects for a bit, it swiftly switched gears. I absolutely LOVED the male main character and his entire background, and the story really sealed the deal for me. The characters throughout the story were enjoyable, I loved the plot twists in the book and enjoyed that they weren't too set up and predictable. In all this book had me grinning with a smile that shines like Hope Diamond :)
Wow. This book was just.. amazing. It's one of my first real contemporary enemies-to-lovers romances as I usually stick to that trope in fantasy but boy did it deliver. I was a bit hesitant at first though because from the description of the book it seemed to be a fake dating story and though it had those aspects for a bit, it swiftly switched gears. I absolutely LOVED the male main character and his entire background, and the story really sealed the deal for me. The characters throughout the story were enjoyable, I loved the plot twists in the book and enjoyed that they weren't too set up and predictable. In all this book had me grinning with a smile that shines like Hope Diamond :)
April 10, 2023
The heroine Grace is stuck on a loser ex, hoping to get Matt back although it is rather obvious that Matt is no good for her. His strategy is to neg her and make her think nobody else would want her. Matt's team mate Noah has always had a thing for her and when Matt and Grace break up he sees his chance. Noah is hot AND funny, and gotta love the fierce he-falls-first vibes. Thankfully Grace doesn't pine for Matt too long. But when she gets together with Noah it causes problems with the ice hockey team because Matt is not the sort to give up gracefully. Grace also has to make some decisions about her career choices that up until now have been heavily influenced by her overly critical parents. I enjoyed this story a lot. I liked the couple, the general style of writing and the dialogue is entertaining.
June 10, 2021
Noah propositions Grace that he can help her make her ex jealous and show him what he is missing. However, Noah has an ulterior motive that she is unaware of. As they work together, sparks fly and their chemistry explodes into a steamy hot and passionate interactions. Add in some jealous exes, the pressures of family, studies and a team, and a few unseen twists, this novel is entertaining and enjoyable to read.
I thought this story was well written and the characters had a lot of depth. Grace and Noah were absolutely adorable together, and I really loved Noah as she is such a sweetie, and so totally swoon-worthy!
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a fair and honest review.
I thought this story was well written and the characters had a lot of depth. Grace and Noah were absolutely adorable together, and I really loved Noah as she is such a sweetie, and so totally swoon-worthy!
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a fair and honest review.
June 13, 2021
I received a free ARC from Hidden Gems for the promise of an honest review.
It was good. Grace and Noah meet the first day of college their freshman but interference from Matt kept the apart. Noah was unaware of how jealous Matt was of him after all Noah and Matt are hockey teammates. Matt decided to pursue Grace and tell her lies about Noah. Three years later, Matt has decided that Grace and he need to take a break in their relationship to make sure that this is the right relationship. Noah decides to take his chance with Grace. As Grace and Noah gets to know each other, Matt's lies unravel. Grace and Noah realized they never truly knew Matt. Grace and Niah relationship grew stronger and they could see a future together.
It was cute and fun to read. I liked both Noah and Grace.
It was good. Grace and Noah meet the first day of college their freshman but interference from Matt kept the apart. Noah was unaware of how jealous Matt was of him after all Noah and Matt are hockey teammates. Matt decided to pursue Grace and tell her lies about Noah. Three years later, Matt has decided that Grace and he need to take a break in their relationship to make sure that this is the right relationship. Noah decides to take his chance with Grace. As Grace and Noah gets to know each other, Matt's lies unravel. Grace and Noah realized they never truly knew Matt. Grace and Niah relationship grew stronger and they could see a future together.
It was cute and fun to read. I liked both Noah and Grace.
June 17, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This debut book for this author is the first of the Devington Devils Hockey romance series. It is an enemies to lovers romance with a HEA ending.
Grace's boyfriend of 3 tears gas decided they need a break. She gave him the summer and figured they would get back together when school started back. But he's not ready yet. She will do anything to get back together with him even pretend dating his best friend. Only everything she thought she knew is turning out to be a lie.
Noah wants to help Grace but maybe not in the same way she thinks. This is his one and only chance and he's not missing out again.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one.
Grace's boyfriend of 3 tears gas decided they need a break. She gave him the summer and figured they would get back together when school started back. But he's not ready yet. She will do anything to get back together with him even pretend dating his best friend. Only everything she thought she knew is turning out to be a lie.
Noah wants to help Grace but maybe not in the same way she thinks. This is his one and only chance and he's not missing out again.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one.
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