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She’s the girl next door, and for the next two weeks I’ll be her NHL star boyfriend.

When Ryleigh Dunham needs a date for my sister’s wedding—one confident and sexy enough to make her ex jealous—I’m more than happy to sign up for the job.

After all, Ryleigh isn’t the feisty teenager I used to know—now she’s all fiery passion, delectable curves, and a smart mouth I can’t get enough of.

Only problem is, I can’t stop the electricity crackling between us every time we’re “faking it.”

And the longer we play the game, the harder I’m falling.

Ryleigh feels it too, but she’s stuck in a past that refuses to let her go.

Now I’m playing for her future, and if we can’t see beyond our stubbornness, we may lose our shot at one hell of a happily ever after.

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 16, 2021

764 people are currently reading
2895 people want to read

About the author

Samantha Whiskey

44 books2,791 followers
Samantha Whiskey is a wife, mom, lover of her dogs and romance novels. No stranger to hockey, hot alpha males, and a high dose of awkwardness, she tucks herself away to write books her PTA will never know about.

To keep up to date with her latest sexy little reads, join her mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/bSQRWr

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5 stars
1,899 (41%)
4 stars
1,689 (37%)
3 stars
802 (17%)
2 stars
146 (3%)
1 star
21 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
Profile Image for Ainhoa.
593 reviews17 followers
September 20, 2021
I always find friends-to-lovers a bit hard to like, and this was no exception, but the ending made it worth it, even the frustrating miscommunication between them two.

Again, I’m begging, can we get Silas story? Pretty please. Although Demon sounds good too 🖤
Profile Image for Black Ink Riot.
196 reviews51 followers
August 19, 2021
Good, but utterly forgetable

3.5 stars. Just like the last few books across all her series, it was a good read to pass some time, but I won’t remember it next week. I actually was getting really confused with all the new couples from the past few books who made appearances here - Savannah, London, Briggs, Brogan, and on and on. The initial books in the series each had an H and h with distinctive personalities and unique plot lines. Now they are all the same. Insta lust, lots of banging, some sweet times, inevitably career vs love drama, a big misunderstanding, and then a few pages to get back together.

All the books are blending into a haze of “did I already read this”? And even the author or one of her ghostwriters is getting confused, because she wrote a whole paragraph about Sawyer and Harper being together, when Sawyer is married to Echo and Harper is with Nathan Noble.

If it wasn’t obvious that ghostwriters are employed to write as “Samantha Whiskey” by the fact that a new book is released every month now (seriously - it’s getting laughable trying to pretend that one person can write that fast), it’s obvious now by how the depth of the characters and intertwining of their lives has gotten sacrificed by the business decision to churn these out so fast.

I feel like my last review for Briggs (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) was read by this ghost writer though, as this is the FIRST book that the heroine didn’t scream every single time she orgasmed. Thanks for reading and taking that into consideration ghost writer. It seriously made the book a whole star better.
Profile Image for Dela.
157 reviews9 followers
May 23, 2022
I'll be honest in the fact that I went into this book expecting the absolute worst lol but I was pleasantly surprised... Was this the best book in the series no, and on another day I probably wouldn't have liked it as much but... after suffering through the last book Caspian and Ryleigh were a breath of fresh air.

I was skeptical about Ryleigh for sure but she surprised me. Ryleigh was holding on to something that wasn't worth holding onto and it was at the point of just downright sad and disgusting but she acknowledged it. Ryleigh acknowledged that she knew she was making bad decisions and she even admitted to knowing why she did it and was able to say that while she should let go but she wasn't ready to. I can respect that.

When Ryleigh did get over her problem, her and Caspian were cute. They had one of the more genuine relationships that didn't stem from sex... was there sex? Sure but if you cut all that out they would have still had a strong relationship to me. They had a real romance and while it was fast, because of course it was, it felt genuine.

Caspian was stubborn as hell but he figured himself out after a good talking to. He wasn't perfect but there was just something cozy about his character. Probably the whole small town boy thing but hey it worked for him.

This one was definitely better than the last book. Thank goodness 😭🤣
Profile Image for Anna.
1,090 reviews7 followers
October 27, 2021
Meh
Bah
Too much drama
The heroine was too way long in love with her ex
Safe
No good coommunication between main characters
687 reviews5 followers
July 17, 2021
Every time I dive into a Samantha Whiskey book, I know I'm going to be captivated and won't be able to put it down until I've finished it and this book was no exception. I absolutely loved the banter and relationship between Caspian and Ryleigh. I love that every book in this series shows us how much the reapers and their wives are a true family to each other. It's great to get to check-in with some of the characters from the previous books. I also loved the small town feel of this story and the festival they held in the summer. These are the types of festivals and fairs I love to attend. These two were brought together by their two meddling moms and fell hard and fast for each other. Caspian's grand gesture made me swoon, Samantha Whiskey sure knows how to write a good grovel scene after someone messes up.

I hope we get a book about Brogan and Maxim and a spin-off series about Kolton and his team in Minnesota.
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
August 16, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

Very enjoyable read, really love this series it’s so entertaining and satisfying, the characters have a real energy all their own and come alive as you read through the pages.
Caspian and Ryleigh ( love that name) are great together and deserve their HEA.
Look forward to reading Maxims story a hope he finds the lady of his dreams is his sister friend Evie.
Profile Image for READ ME ROMANCE.
617 reviews164 followers
July 17, 2021
Caspian is book 8 of 8 of the professional hockey Carolina Reapers series by Samantha Whiskey. I am a big fan and have read every book as well as her Raleigh Raptor (football) and Seattle Sharks (hockey) sports romance series. Samantha’s characters are all super sexy, loyal, and protective, and when they fall in love, they fall hard. They are not only devoted to their sport and their team, but to their better half, and are men of great character. I equally love the heroines in her romances as they are independent, strong, and smart, and have their own unique personalities and career goals.

Ryleigh Dunham and Caspian Foster grew up as neighbors in Cherry Creek, Iowa. Caspian and many of his teammates from the Reapers which are based in Charleston, South Carolina, are in town in their off season for his younger sister London’s wedding to their teammate and friend, Jansen Sterling.

I loved that their mothers were best friends, and all of the charm of small town life. Ryleigh is about six years younger than him, and the meddling moms ask for him to help her get over her ex, Chuck, who lives in town. The book is filled with neighbors not minding their business, working hard to make a living, pride in your home and family, local celebrations like their July 4th festival, and Caspian just being able to be himself without the demands of being a superstar.

Most of the author’s heroes had grand gestures, Axel being my all-time favorite. He left Sweden to move to the US to be with Langley, the PR director for the team. Bristol moved her company for Briggs, and Cannon married his wife twice. I loved all of the interconnected characters, Logan, Axel, Connell, Brogan, etc. and if you are a new reader, it’s very easy to pop in any of her books if one catches your eye. But if you have KU, I suggest you start at the beginning so you can enjoy them all.

SPOILER ALERT:

While I really like Caspian, and his relationship with his team, parents, and siblings, and I am happy that he and Ryleigh connected on such a deep level so quickly, their total lack of communication made this book my least favorite. I found it very immature on both of their parts to keep guessing how the other was feeling which often led to misunderstandings, and for them to just live in the moment, knowing he had a job to do in another state.

I did like how she wanted to help her mother after her father's passing, and how she worked through her feelings for Chuck, who kept popping up like a pimple, but wish she shared them with Caspian, but at only 22 she still had a lot of growing up to do. I realize that they only had a month together, but what he did at the end as his grand gesture was not realistic, totally irresponsible to his teammates, and short-sighted in my opinion.

In earlier chapters, he was working through ideas in his head how they could make a long distance relationship work, but never shared them with her so they could discuss it maturely. To voluntarily initiate a major career change to be near her while she attended a TEMPORARY two-year master’s program without ever speaking to her about it really upset me! And even though she tried to make amends to correct a misunderstanding, they were not honest with one another and she gave up way too quickly.

As a graduate student, she would have off summers (hockey players usually have off then too), a long winter and spring break, and he could fly to see her when there were no games, or fly her to him on a free day. Would they even want to stay in Minneapolis after she graduates?

A pro-hockey player has ten years at best, and then they could settle on a town they both liked, or where he got a coaching job. She is an industrial artist and could set up shop anywhere and sell her items. Their lack of communication and his decision were not how I personally wanted the book to go, especially that he “surprised” her with his decision instead of discussing their goals individually and as a couple and then make plans, like her possibly attending Savannah’s well-known school of College or Art and Design which is only a two hour drive south from Charleston.

I mean no respect to the author as this is not my story to tell, and I am sure she has a plan for the future. I was hoping to get Maxim’s story next, but am unsure now as Caspian’s book concludes this series with the Reapers. Even though I really liked Caspian's character, this particular book was just a miss for me. I will continue to read all of her books because I am a huge fan of her writing, characters, and storytelling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lisa D.
1,082 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2021
Another reaper fights and falls

I love this series. Caspian goes home for his sister's wedding and sees the girl next door all grown up. Ryleigh wants nothing to do with Caz and is struggling after a public breakup and the death of her dad. It was great how they came together and the relationship between the men is one of the best parts of the book. Lots of heat between them, too. Another must read from Samantha Whiskey.
Profile Image for Laurie V.
42 reviews4 followers
July 21, 2021
I really had a hard time finishing this one. I found it boring with the same scenes over and over again. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between the couple and just couldn’t wait to get to the end and be done. This is not how I would describe any of Samantha’s previous books, not sure why I didn’t connect but there you go. Not every book is a winner. Still love her as a writer and I hope I enjoy the next book more.
Profile Image for Emily.
921 reviews3 followers
July 19, 2021
Wow, was the communication bad in this book! I mean, guys, come on, get it together. But other than that, I liked Ryleigh and Caspian and enjoyed the story.
Profile Image for Renée.
868 reviews132 followers
April 17, 2022
Caspian by Samantha Whisky is a hockey sports romance that follows the story of Caspian and Ryleigh. This is the eighth book in the Carolina Reapers series, which is a spin-off to the Seattle Sharks series.

Caspian and Ryleigh haven’t seen each other since they were kids, and thanks to their mums setting them up for Caz’s sister's wedding - which isn’t just a one day event, these two ignite something they never expected.

One with a broken heart and the other who’s usually the heartbreaker, these two make the perfect match. Plus they learn and grow with each other, and make much needed sacrifices.

I also liked that these two had no real history and that Ryleigh hadn’t been introduced in previous books.

This story ticks the sports romance box, but also adds in home town/fake relationship.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
August 31, 2021
This one was interesting as almost all of the action was in the off season and away from Reaper territory. I liked the small town Iowa setting, liked that Caz wasn't such a big shot that he didn't talk to the little people around town, how his mom could still put him in his place and even guilt him into doing things.

Ryleigh was interesting, the BFF of London, so Caz has known her as the pesky kid all his life. Seeing her as a woman was different for him. I liked how things changed for them and how their relationship grew. Towards the end I wished that Caz would have talked to Ryleigh, but overall what happened was better. Ryleigh knew for sure she was what he wanted.
1,164 reviews6 followers
April 25, 2022
Caspian & Ryleigh

My second favorite couple!!! Loved their hometown girl next door story. Caspian goes home to attend his sister London's wedding and meets up with her friend Ryleigh. Both their moms devised a plan to have Caspian escort Ryleigh to all the wedding activities. There is a douchey ex involved. In the span of getting reacquainted they both start to develop feelings for each other but it wouldn't be smooth sailing. Miscommunication over a meeting between Ryleigh and her ex has Caspian heading back home immediately. Great book and beautiful love story leads to a HEA.
Profile Image for Pauline Cassie.
1,219 reviews59 followers
December 16, 2021
I love the Carolina Reapers series and Caspian is no different. Samantha Whiskey has such a fluid writing style that the reader is easily caught up in the stories she weaves.

The story of Caspian and Ryleigh is super sweet with more than a healthy dose of hot, intimate moments.

I can't really say what I loved most about this 'fake relationship' trope because I don't do spoilers but Caspian is definitely worth a read.
Profile Image for tee.
201 reviews18 followers
December 16, 2021
this was just okay, kinda meh. somewhat enjoyed it but it didn’t really keep me all that engaged. the lack of communication drove me insane and ryleigh still so in love with her ex most of the book was not fun for me to read. other than that, loved seeing snippets of everyone from previous books. i am so excited for maxim and evie and brogan is next ahh!! samantha i am begging you WHERE IS ASHER’S BOOK?!
Profile Image for Jas.
699 reviews14 followers
May 4, 2022
This book definitely deviated from the others in the series. There was very little hockey involved other than mention of the boys being teammates and timing/deadlines related to the start of the season. This one was definitely more small town romcom with a bunch of tropes like childhood friends to lovers, girl/boy next door, etc. it was cute but definitely not my favorite. More than anything I need a story about Asher Silas falling in love.
Profile Image for Crazychriss889.
1,488 reviews10 followers
August 26, 2021
Again, lovely sports romance. This time with the fake boyfriend trope. Plus, girl next door when they were younger. Plus, sister's best friend.

I didn't like the message at the end. There was a lack of communication before. They didn't talk about the future they could have together - like at all. Everyone decided what to do individually and independently, which I think isn't that awesome in a relationship...

Ohhh wait a sec, there is another thing I wanted to add: at one instance in the book, Caspian left his car with the AC on running do that they can get back to a cool car. Lmao. Ever heard of climate change, my dear? Sustainability?
Profile Image for marta✨.
683 reviews1 follower
February 7, 2023
2.5⭐️

this is what happens when people don’t have healthy conversations, like the last 25% of the book was just them accusing each other of shit and leaving the place

also, with the way the keep miscommunicating, i’m telling you this couple won’t last

note: is his name cassian or caspian because that should have gotten proofread
Profile Image for hannah.
144 reviews16 followers
February 5, 2025
if i can depend on anyone, i can depend on samatha whiskey she always pulls through for a nice easy read
Profile Image for Angelina.
742 reviews
July 25, 2021
Caspian was better than the last two books in the series and I was so happy, but then the ending let it down due to lack of communication and a career changing decision being made that I just feel wasn't realistic. I love small town romances and combined with sister's best friend, it was a sweet story with passion, family and friends, but I just couldn't figure out why Ryleigh was so hung up on winning her ex back when their relationship had clearly lacked everything a relationship needs to succeed.

There was more development between the main characters this time and we got to see the attraction they had for each other build into something more. There were some sweet moments together and I found myself smiling when we see Caz giving Ryleigh the type of relationship she'd never had with her ex. We also get to catch up with some of the team and I love how they're always included in each of the books in some way. This book, for me, was a great addition to the series and it gives me hope that the series will pick back up and match how it was at the beginning

*I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book
Profile Image for Nureesh Vhalega.
Author 20 books152 followers
August 2, 2021
Caspian sweet, tapi aku tetap lebih suka Axel dan Cannon wkwkwk
Profile Image for Margaret.
110 reviews3 followers
September 9, 2021
This was extremely sweet and very forgettable. Like, I went to review it and truly could not remember a single thing that went on.
Profile Image for Alley Ciz.
Author 98 books2,389 followers
July 30, 2021
I love a good fake relationship trope especially when it's supposed to be to make an ex jealous and then these two fools realize they love each other. This book had all that with a side of sports and small town to sweeten the pot!
Profile Image for Made Me Blush Books.
230 reviews12 followers
July 19, 2021
Couldn’t love Caspian & Ryleigh more

Every time Samantha drops a new Carolina Reapers book I immediately drop everything to read it and I’m never disappointed. Caspian is home for his sister’s wedding and his mom has asked him to accompany his knobby kneed younger neighbor to wedding events because she recently went through a terrible breakup. What he wasn’t expecting was her growing up into a gorgeous, funny and utterly irresistible woman that he wants for himself. Ryleigh is hilarious and the banter is the best in this book!

This is a sweet fake dating the girl next door story that I had so much fun reading. Can’t wait for more Reapers books!
Profile Image for Veronica LaRoche.
4,630 reviews69 followers
July 18, 2021
I absolutely can’t get enough of these Reapers. I love reading Caspian(Caz) story. The connection that Caz & Ryleigh have is undeniable. Every Reaper has a heart of gold, and you can’t help but fall for all the incredible characters. Truly a story that I couldn’t put down.
Profile Image for D. L. Foley | My Last Romance.
1,008 reviews24 followers
May 1, 2023
My rating 4.25 stars.

Things I liked:
-Caspian and Ryleigh
-banter
-writing style

Things I thought could be executed better:
-I hate “bad communication” novels and this one had that, but it didn’t bug me as much as some.


General Thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I particularly liked Cas’s reading nature. I enjoyed the banter. Predictable but enjoyable.

Steam Meter: On the adult side. It wasn’t overly graphic but there were sexual scenes. Solidly adult but not as overly detailed as some.

Romantic Tropes
-sports romance
-friends to lovers
-“fake dating to make somebody jealous” sort of
-girl/boy next door
-friend’s brother/sister’s friend
-insta-lovey but we’ll developed
Profile Image for J.
429 reviews6 followers
July 9, 2025
Meh. It was better than the last one but that's not saying much.

I usually like the fake dating books.... if they're written well. I just wasn't feeling this one. It might have partly been the fact I was reading this one on the tablet and another book I *really* wasn't feeling on my phone.

Also I'll admit I struggled to recall some of the other couples' stories.. so there's that.

Would I read again? Probably not.
1,413 reviews
September 16, 2021
I found it an enjoyable read. I do like this trope. All the miscommunication was a tad idiotic and just didn't feel real. Who behaves like that?

However for me what was just awful and said to me they could never really work was the way he handled the big gesture. That was awful. He made a permanent life change without a conversation with her. And for me that took the romance out.

I was also so confused by all the different couples and who was who.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews

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