Riding the Pine

Cedar Rapids Raccoons #6

by Lasairiona E. McMaster

Some crushes never fade—they just burn deeper.

Scott: Hockey was my ticket out—my one-way pass to a better life. I've been laser-focused: graduate, get drafted, and build a career that proves I'm more than just another farm kid with big dreams. Athena de la Peña was always the one mesmerizing distraction I couldn't afford. She’s my best friends’ older sister, and way out of my league.

But when she's hurt and vulnerable, my carefully planned future becomes secondary. Everything I've worked for means nothing compared to protecting her. She deserves someone who'll fight for her, stay for her, even if she doesn’t think she needs it.

Athena: Scott Raine was always there—my brothers' best friend, the guy who saw me when no one else did. After my assault, I'm broken, raw, and searching for something solid. Suddenly, he's my rock. The boy who watched me from afar is now the man holding me together, fighting my battles, and showing me what real love looks like. And I have no idea what to do with that.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Sports Romance, Hockey, Friends To Lovers, Hockey Romance, Family

Unknown Binding

About the author

Lasairiona McMaster writes sassy, classy and badassy women and strong, yet vulnerable men.

She challenges reader’s expectations by openly dealing with mental health issues, often exploring tough-to-handle topics and ‘taboos’ and books with a whole lotta heart.

She can either be found enjoying a gin and lemonade by the Irish sea, or baking sweet treats in her kitchen while singing at the top of her lungs.

When she’s ‘home’ in Texas, and isn’t eating fresh-popped popcorn while buying things she has absolutely no need for in Target, she can be found at Chuys eating her body weight in chips and queso and washing it down with a margarita swirl.

Reviews

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riding the Pine is the sixth book in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series by Lasairiona McMaster, and it could be read as a standalone.

We follow the long journey of Athena and Scott, with all the ups and downs of their friendship before and love relationship later. Once I've started to read this story, I was really invested in these characters lives, I just couldn't stop anymore, and I finished it too quickly.

Athena and Scott met on the side of the road, while he was trying to change his car tire to be in time for his high school hockey game, and they felt the spark of attraction right away. Unfortunately she is his best friends' big sister, and he doesn't want to spoil his relationship with this found family, so he decides to not act and to keep his friendship with all the de la Peña siblings. Will he survive the agony to see Athena dating other people year after year? Or will he finally go for it?

I was so glad to see Athena to take the lead, because Scott is pretty blocked, by the thought of not being enough and the fear to lose her. They are good friends, but they are an incredible couple. Athena is so strong and powerful, and she is perfect to push Scott beyond his own limits. Scott, on the other side, sees her true self, he makes her feel safe, and he would do anything for her.

Lasairiona McMaster wrote a lovely, touching, and complex story. She tackled some triggering issues as gently as possible, I've appreciated the warnings at the beginning of the book and of the chapter.

I recommend to read it if you like a slow burn and spicy love story.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Lauren Curley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶🌶 - Spice Level

Scott and Athena meet when he's stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire in the dead of winter. It's the cutest of the meet cutest when she offers to help, but even her bada$$ self can't get frozen lug nuts to budge. Scott is just a couple of years younger than Athena, but he's certain within the first car ride to his game with her brothers that she's his one.

These two really did go through some ups and downs, including her triggering moment of r@pe. Scott helps get her through right along with her family, and it's endearing. Athena does find her bada$$ self once she recovers, but the depth shown from this episode to healing on the other side was handled so well. Scott never left her side, and even her brothers took notice of his love for Athena long before this. It was kind of funny when all the brothers call him out saying, "we knew, but waiting for you to say it."

These two were the perfect wrap up for their love story. There were some nice and spicy scenes, including the bonus epilogue.


⚠️Please read all trigger warnings ⚠️

Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: March 13, 2025

[Courtney Shapiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

At this point, it's clear (or it should be) that Lasairiona is one of my all-time favorite authors. I'm continuously in awe of her writing and approach to her characters and their vulnerabilities. I have been waiting for Athena's story since the beginning, and it did not disappoint. This had some favorite tropes, including brother's (in this case multiple)best friend and teammate, golden retriever energy, and more. There was also no third-act break-up, even after Athena and Scott went through huge trauma together, which I appreciated. Their chemistry was off the charts from the beginning, and while I wanted them to get together, I also loved their relationship's slow burn. I also have to give Lasairiona props for her trigger and content warnings. This book had some heavy and hard-to-read moments, but I think she handled them with care. I definitely cried at various points and just wanted to give all the characters a hug. Speaking of which, I love the De La Peña family so much. Each of the siblings is there for each other in unique ways, and I loved how they immediately came to protect Athena after what happened. I also appreciated how they handled Athena and Scott's relationship. And I'm not done talking about that because they were PERFECT. The spice was EXCELLENT (as it always is), but it was woven in so well, and you could tell the characters were so in love. I've basically babbled on now, but I just love Lasairiona and her books so much, so everyone should add these to their TBR. Thank you to Lasairiona for an e-ARC of this book. I can't wait for the next one!

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly- thank you to Lasairiona for an advanced reader copy. I’ve been waiting for this book for what feels like forever and it did not disappoint. Definitely read the trigger warnings and heed them. There are a ton of things I love about Lasairiona’s books but mostly it’s the family of characters she has created, and how they band together to deal with real issues. This story starts out slow and cute. Girl and boy meet- boy is friends with girl’s brothers, girl and boy dance around each other for a while. Then they finally get together and you want to cheer for them and hit them with your chancla for waiting so long. Trauma happens, but unlike in other books, it does not tear them apart. They struggle and stumble, but they take care of each other and find their way forward together. Scott is seriously the best. He’s the book boyfriend we all wish our real boyfriends or husbands are. Athena is a badass strong independent woman. I loved watching them grow together and find their happily ever after.

[liz_loves_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** Bravo Lasairiona 👏 not only for a fantastic story, but also for the inclusion of a TW before descriptive chapters that could trigger readers. First time I have seen this, and I thought it was so respectful to your readers, and that these chapters could he skipped to avoid unnecessary trauma. ******

Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would ride the pine with Scottie any day of the week. What a MAN he proved to be - in all the ways that Athena needed him to be.

This was a hard-hitting story that delved deeply into traumatic events, that were treated in an empathetic way.

The swoony romantic moments were spot on... we were treated to hawt steamy times, friendship, found family and not forgetting the dreamy de la Peña brothers and Cedar Rapid Raccoons hockey teammates.

Athena has been portrayed throughout the series as such a strong character and boy did she need to dive deep in this story.

I 💯 agree with Athena that Scottie is a
" man with a heart of gold and a deliciously filthy tongue"

He had the dirty-talking Alpha vibes, but was always by her side and offered her both support and total respect...
"Her body, her choice"

This is my top read of the year so far.

[Briana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love the de la Peñas. Getting to know Athena, seeing her with her brothers, watching her and Scott fall in love was all amazing. This book is heavy (check CWs and take them seriously) and it made me cry at 7 am on a Monday morning, but it was also so good.

[Vic · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT. A. STORY! I was so glad to read Athena and Scott's story. Highs and lows, love and tears (including mine) and heartache (but not from a breakup). Make sure you read the triggers. But gosh, what a story. The love Scott has for Athena is the love everyone should demand. And the found family remains one of my most fave. Can't wait for Artemis. I could just go on...

Thanks so much for the ARC Lasairiona. It's brilliant. What a roller coaster.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent Athena story. Granted, I do love Scott, and Athena‘s brothers, but I absolutely love Athena. She is such a strong woman and goes through so much. This book had me bawling like a baby and laughing at some of their antics. This whole series is by far excellent, but this book in particular, I absolutely loved!

[Katie Wilks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riding the Pine
Overall Score ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat Level 🔥🔥

• Brothers' Best Friend
• Slow Burn
• Bisexual FMC
• Hockey Romance

Lasairiona's fans have been waiting very impatiently for Athena's story. It is a slow burn with delicious tension. And I must add that teenager ZERO CHILL Scott is my absolute favorite! This one has a different vibe than the rest of the Raccoons series, however the one thing that stays the same is the chosen family that is the Cedar Rapids Racoons. If you have read Lasairiona's stories before, you know she doesn't shy away from difficult topics. This one tackles a very difficult, possibly triggering subject, but its done with so much compassion. I hope everyone loves Athena and Scott's story.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riding the Pine-Lasairiona McMaster
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: brothers best friend, hockey, angsty, pining, rich girl/poor boy, protective mmc, friends to lovers, bisexual fmc

Swoon-worthy, am I right? - Scott.
Truer words have never been spoken. Scott is the definition of a green flag, swoon-worthy book boyfriend. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I found myself experiencing a wide range of emotions, from laughter and surprise to swooning, anger, and tears. This book had good banter, drama, and plenty of spice. This book follows Scott and Athena. Scott is Athena's brother's best friend. He fell for Athena the moment he met her. They were drawn to each other but resisted. Scott came from a humble background and didn't feel worthy of Athena. As the eldest daughter, Athena carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. She is opinionated, strong, sassy, and independent and has a hard time accepting help. When Athena is assaulted, Scott is her safe space. He is receptive to Athena's feelings and needs and puts her first. I love their relationship. They start as best friends and evolve into so much more

[Marisela M. Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Athena and Scott story gave me all the feels. This is truly a remarkable best friends to lovers. Athena and Scott seriously deserve all the happiness and love and everything in between. All the high and lows they went through and navigated together. How supportive they were to each other. It was so amazing to see how their friendship went to something beautiful. The support they had from family and friends was incredible to see. They have been rooting for them as much as I was.

Thank you so much for giving us Athena and Scott story. I was patiently waiting for them since the beginning of this incredible series. And as always it was great to see old friends and meet new ones.

Arc provided for hones review

**Please see the trigger warning before you start reading.

[ReadaholicDeb · Rating 4 out of 5]

After watching their relationship unfold throughout the series—especially Scott’s unwavering protectiveness over Athena—their story is finally here! This isn’t your average brother’s best friend college hockey romance. You’ll laugh, you’ll smile, but you’ll also feel gut-wrenching pain as these two fight for their HEA…and what a beautiful HEA it is. Their journey is filled with angst and emotion.

I loved their relationship, and the slow burn by returning to their past was absolutely perfect! Is there a more perfect golden retriever MMC than Scott? I think not!

Deeply emotional yet filled with warmth, friendship, and family, this story balances heartache and healing beautifully. The care and intentionality behind it shine through, making every moment feel meaningful. This book tackles heavy themes and raw, real-life situations. I have to give credit to the author for handling these topics with care, including well-placed content warnings at the beginning of the book and before certain chapters.

This won’t be an easy read for everyone, as it delves into sensitive subject matter, but if you can handle it, it’s worth it. At its core, this is a story of love, understanding, resilience, and healing.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star review Riding the Pine (Cedar Rapids Racoons #6) by Lasairiona McMaster

This is Scott Raine and Athena de la Peña’s story and it was entertaining with characters that were easy to relate to.

When Athena is assaulted, Scott steps up to look after and protect her which I admired.

Well written, it was a good addition to the Cedar Rapids Racoons series. This is a friends to lovers story that ticked numerous boxes for me.

It was at times an emotional rollercoaster of a read and one that moved me.

[Mrs Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now who hasn't wanted to worship at the altar of Athena de la Peña because if you haven't met / read about her in the previous books ( it can be read as a standalone calm down goose)

I have always loved the chemistry between her and Scott. My goodness how he is with.

I will say please read the trigger warnings of this as it does have a hard story to read in places. I sobbed for her and just wanted to give her a hug for everything.

You will fall in love with this family and thier friends. You will not regret it I promise.

[Jodie Hanafin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for an ARC copy.
Wow where to start, this book tore out my heart and stitched it back together again.
Scott and Athena really do hold a special place in my heart and I think I will definitely carry them and their story with me.
The story begins very lighthearted, two teenagers pining over one another but both too scared to say anything and throw a spanner in the dynamic.
When the two love interests finally do make it official it’s clear to see the love between them, especially how Scott shoes up for Athena even before they were together he always went out of his way to help her and this only grows with time, I fell so in love with Scott through his unwavering support of Athena, putting his own feelings aside in the moment to give her the help she needs.
Athena is also such a strong FMC, eldest daughter, goes out of her way to help people and make the world a better place and handled all of the horrors life threw at her with resilience. She went through a lot in this book and I’m glad she got her HEA. ❤️❤️

Please do read the TW list!

[Courtney P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story! I liked watching them throughout the different stages of their relationship. I loved watching them fall for each other and seeing what a strong person she is.

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received an ARC for this book)

Trigger Warnings include:
rape (on page, noted at chapter start), cheating (not between MCs), dangerous incident involving side characters, underage drinking discussed, breeding kink, ‘ethical non-monogamy’ (FFM scene, noted at chapter start)

This book is the perfect example of why I am so in love with this series! The humor, the heart, the pure enjoyment. Not to mention my attachment with this team and their beautifully built found family! I will always accept more time with them. I had the pleasure of reading this as an early early reader, and then again as an ARC reader. And BOTH times were just as powerful! All the emotions were just as big and loud, and I loved having them along with the characters! Spending any amount of time with Scott and Athena will never be enough. They’re both fabulous characters! The sweet golden retriever, and the woman in charge. And neither hesitate to switch those places. This many books into the series means I had PLENTY of tears ready to go for this one (for both reads too!). Didn’t matter how strong my emotions were, I DEVOURED this through them! Their “I love you” moment was so perfect for them. And the conversations about sexuality were absolutely beautiful!!

My Favorite Quotes:
• “It’s so hard having to pretend I’m not in love with you.”
• “I’ve got you.” “You’ve always got me.”
• “I’m merely a man. If I see you take your clothes off, my last remaining thread of restraint will snap, and I’ll stop being a gentleman.”
• “For the record? I always want to kiss you.”
• “We’ve wasted so much time.”
• “If you can’t have fun with the person you love, if you can’t laugh in the bedroom when you’re at your most vulnerable with each other, then is it even love?”
• “I need to just… I… f!ck, you’re so goddamn beautiful. You should be illegal.”
• “Such a dirty little thing, aren’t you.”
• “I love you; I have always loved you; I will always love you. There is no world where I don’t love you.”
• “Can you do that for me? Can you take care of my c!m while I make you scream for me?”
• “I want to be the man you think I can be.”
• “I want to kiss that lipstick off your face.” “I want to kiss this lipstick onto your d!ck.”
• “Bisexuality doesn’t look the same on every person.”
• “When you find the person you’re supposed to be with, no one needs to change who they are to fit.”

8/10 Dirty Birdy
8/10 Brothers’ Best Friend
7/10 Friends to Lovers
6/10 Slow Burn
6/10 Sports Romance
7/10 Tearjerker
9/10 Series

This is my review for Snowflakes and Slapshots
This is my review for Freezing the Puck
This is my review for Pulling the Goalie
This is my review for Crashing the Net
This is my review for Lighting the Lamp
This is my review for Dropping the Mitts
This is my review for Home for the Hockey-Days
This is my review for Dump and Chase

[Brittany · Rating 1 out of 5]

Riding the Pine is a rough draft, not a finished book. I made it to Chapter 15, submitted 3 Content Errors to Kindle, got tired trying to figure out where this story was going and DNFd. The author opens with a Content Warning page, but inserts her opinion to each the triggers, 🙄 completely missing the point of a "Trigger Warning" page. Followed by a Timeline Warning, outlining how they miswrote the book, AND THEN inserts an Authors Note on page 1 Chapter 1 about future content. The chapters are a mess, nearly each one ends on a cliff hanger, and it's hard to actually care for the characters bc the reader is tossed around the story and timeline so much. This is an outline of a story with chapters haphazardly sewn together, and an overly chatty author trying to gal pal the reader.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap on a stick! Lasairiona, are you trying to kill us? You must be with this one because you ripped my heart out, shredded it into a billion tiny pieces, covered it in hot sauce, and stomped all over it before you made it feel better again.

I have been patiently (well, maybe not so patiently) waiting for Athena's story, and it was definitely worth the wait. Her story was so much more than I expected. I kinda wasn't ready for everything Athena needed us to hear, but I was there for every single morsel she gave. In true Lasairiona fashion, she conjured up another amazingly strong female lead in Athena.
Throughout this series, Athena has been the strong, independent, and intimidating oldest sibling. To get to see inside her and her thought process was soul soothing. I just HAD to know more about her, and I'm so glad I finally got the answers I was seeking.

Scott is a rare character himself. He is the perfect fit for Athena. He would give her the world to make her happy, and he kinda does. He is selfless and giving, strong in his convictions, has a hard time knowing his own self-worth, and so dang lovable! He has now been added to the ever growing list of favorite male leads in Lasairiona's novels. Hey lady, that list is getting long!

Athena and Scott's story hit a different way for me. My husband and I had known each other for YEARS as friends before we ever got together, so this yearning they felt, I could relate. I knew very early that I wanted to marry my husband. We just had other journeys we had to go on before we got to our HEA. I loved the slow burning because it made it that much more electric when they finally got there.

I really loved the chapters from Atremis, Apollo, and Ares. They made this book so much more than it already was. Seeing their points of view... gah, I've missed these boys!

This book dealt with an absolutely horrific event in great detail. Lasairiona, you did an amazing job. Be proud of how you wrote this. This is where you broke me. The strength Athena showed was unbelievable yet exactly how I thought she would process it. Thinking of everything she needed to do to nail them and to make sure they were held accountable. I know this must have been exhausting to write. Thank you.

5 ✨️ 's just doesn't seem like enough for this book. I know that this book almost wasn't written (author note's tells us that), but I'm so grateful you presevered . This story needed to be told. I have loved this series from the beginning and fall more in love with all the characters with each book. This is absolutely a must-read, even if you haven't read the rest of the series. But go read the rest of the series, too. You won't be sorry.

Phenomenal job Lasairiona. It's absolutely phenomenal!

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sixth book in the Cedar Rapids Racoons . Scott Raines best friends’ sister has always been a draw , he did adore from her from afar. He has big plans ,he wants to be a Hockey star, wants to go far. So he needs to keep his focus laser sharp . Graduate and beat the drafting paradox ,hone his craft in other words ,that and get his draft place , sly as a fox ,building his career and not losing face. Athena De La Peña …well have you seen her? There’s no blaming him when he sees she’s hurting and vulnerable ,and straight away he sees her needs come first,she’s deserving of his attention,his protection , even though she thinks she is going to be good on her own . That’s something as her brother’s friend he won’t own and that’s unselfish thinking. One minute he’s changing a tyre on the side of the road ,the next he’s overthinking what’s to be done. He’s in a hurry to get to Hockey ,coach will be miffed. But he’s there for Athena ,and after her assault she’s feeling broken and raw and he’s there for her when she’s deep down sad. She protests she’s okay but is deep down glad he’s on her side. This is some writing by Lasairiona E. McMaster , the characters are realistic and certainly neat bringing on the heat , the storytelling is so compelling a complete read . Riding the Pine is a mighty fine book with lots going on . Deep burning crush he’s had for a while . She has a heavenly smile when he protects her makes her feel safe. He to her is ever so brave. But she wants him to,not him trying his best to digress ,turn away. She wants him. She will not take no for an answer . She wants her private dancer…

[Aleksandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Athena and Scott’s journey is one of highs and lows, love and heartache, and enough tears (mine included) to make it unforgettable. Scott, the farm kid turned hockey star, has always been laser-focused on his goals: graduate, get drafted, and prove he’s more than just a small-town dreamer. But Athena de la Peña—his best friends’ older sister and the one mesmerizing distraction he couldn’t afford—has always been his weakness. When Athena is hurt and vulnerable after a traumatic assault, Scott’s carefully planned future takes a backseat. Protecting her, fighting for her, and showing her what real love looks like becomes his priority, even if she doesn’t believe she deserves it.

Athena’s journey is raw and emotional, and Scott’s unwavering love and support are nothing short of breathtaking. Their story is a testament to the power of found family, healing, and the kind of love everyone should demand. While the book tackles heavy themes (check the triggers), it��s also filled with moments of hope, resilience, and heartwarming connection. The chemistry between Athena and Scott is palpable, and their growth as individuals and as a couple is beautifully portrayed.

That said, while the emotional depth and Scott’s devotion are standout elements, some parts of the story felt a bit rushed, leaving me wanting more exploration of certain moments. Despite this, it’s a compelling read that will stay with you long after the last page. I can’t wait for Artemis’s story next! A solid four-star romance that balances heartache and healing with a love that feels truly earned.

[Manda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riding The Pine by Laisairiona McMaster

Book 6 of the Cedar Rapid Racoons series

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is the author's longest book as far as I'm aware and also the hardest hitting one. I still loved it. 

Please pay attention to your trigger warnings on this one as there is an on page SA and the aftermath, I can't deny I skipped over the more detailed parts of the attack (as encouraged by the author themselves) but as difficult as the reading of it was, I do believe it was handled so well in the story.

I have loved every book more than the previous one in this series I was seriously late to the party on and this one was no different. We've seen glimpses of Athena and Scott through the series and now they get to tell their story. It's amazing and affirming, as well as heartbreaking and their HEA is one hard fought for. 

Athena is a quintessential eldest daughter, brought up strong AF and Scott is doing his best to better himself despite his family and their history (I suppose they are both doing that just from either end of the spectrum of wealth and privilege)

Love seeing characters pop up from other linked series (both the Snow Pirates and Protocol) and despite some timeline issues, I really can't do anything but highly recommend this book and, in all honestly all Laisairiona's books. 

[Frida Johansson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes
🏒Slow burn
🏒Hockey romance
🏒Brothers best friend
🏒Bisexual FMC

4.5⭐️

OMG what a read this was! Absolutely loved the storyline, the characters and everything else.
I have been waiting for Athena’s story since I first met her in this universe and her story didn’t disappoint me for even a second. The book was a bit of a slow burn but with a lot of tension and I want him/her but I can’t have them. Athena is really a STRONG character and I wish to be a little more like her.
Scott what a MAN he is! The things he says and does for Athena makes my knees weaken. Also liked his character development in this book and you can really see him grow as a person and become for sure of himself.

Athena and Scott together make the perfect couple and I wish nothing else than to find that love for myself. They felt like their were the bestest of friend with a lot of sexual chemistry and attraction. And how they tried to stay away from each other but at last nothing could beat their connection to one another. How they are there for each other when they need it and how they consider each other’s feelings always make my heart full and I just loved them❤️

Also just have to say that it is always lovely to see all the characters from the Cedar Rapids universe and I LOVE them all.

Thank you so much for the arc Lasairiona❤️

[Chasity Trimble · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riding The Pine by Lasairiona McMaster
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

This is the sixth book in the Cedar Rapids Raccoons series. This book can be read as a standalone, as it is my first book in this series.

I have to say I loved the storyline and the characters in this book. Athena, FMC, is a strong character and has so much compassion for others. Scott, is best friends with Athena’s brother and has his sights on being drafted in NHL after graduating.

I enjoyed watching their romance grow from friendship, how Scott was there for Athena, the hardships they had to overcome and their chemistry together. Their journey was an emotional one and brought me to tears. Some instances were HEAVY and gut wrenching and I thought the author did exceptionally well with her writing and care during the traumatic experience.

A romance that will have you laughing one minute, gushing over the swoon worthy love scenes the next and some instances in tears. My feels were all over the place. These characters and their story will be one I won’t forget. I would advise to check the TW, however definitely one worth reading.
4.5 out of 5

[Ariana Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. My heart was in my throat for most of this story. It’s raw. And real. And it tears you up inside and puts you back together. It’s the story in the series I was most looking forward to. And it did not disappoint.

Scott and Athena have loved each other since they were teenagers. They’ve kept their feelings apart from each tow he for years for many different reasons in both sides.

They finally give in and things are going amazingly. But then Athena has a terrible and life altering experience. And learning to heal from that and work past her trauma along with Scott and his healing was such a wonderful experience.

The family coming together and healing together and growing stronger. The relationship building. The hardships and real life challenges they face. All of if was great. I cried and laughed. And had some swoon worthy moments.

I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Owella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just knew these two were going to be a firm fave of mine. I couldn't wait to read this because I wanted to dive beneath the mask that Athena puts on for the outside world. She tries to stay strong for everyone and protect them as she is the oldest sibling, but sometimes you just gotta let people in.

Scott has been in love with Athena since they met but he deems himself not worthy enough and he is also BFF with her three brothers! But he would do anything for her ❤️ I love how they start off as friends and have such a solid friendship before they try being together. They really have found their perfect other half.

This was one incredibly tough and emotional roller coaster that I'm glad I was on the journey for. As ever, Lasairiona writes about hard hitting subjects but does it with care and compassion. There are definitely triggers so please, please, please read these before diving in. A beautifully written book that is an excellent addition the the Cedar Rapids series!

[WhatJo13reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

What an emotional ride!

Lasairiona certainly puts her characters through it. This book took me from laughing out loud the crying for these characters.

Athena is such a strong character and Scott wants to be worthy of her. They go through so much to get their HEA but it makes it so much sweeter when they get there.

This is the first book I have read in the Cedar Rapid Racoon series. I will be adding the others to my TBR.

🏒College hockey romance
🏒Friends to lovers
🏒Brothers' best friends
🏒Golden retriever
🏒Gone for each other
🏒Across the tracks
🏒Protector
🏒Alpha FMC who ends up needing him
🏒Bi rep
🏒Touch her and d!e
🏒Opposites attract

Please check trigger warnings as this books deals with some sensitive subjects. The author does put warnings on individual chapters so you can skip them and still enjoy the story.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scottie Scottie Scottie is my new yum yum yum. Man is FINE as hell in and out the sheets! He is everything Athena could ever need. (And me).

I loved this book so much, from the romance, the trauma, the found family and the hockey I think this may have been my favourite within the series.

I love Athena so much I can’t even explain, she’s incredible.

This book will get you in your feels and then Alpha male will bring you straight out of those feels and remind you the only feeling you need to feel is “horny” (sorry not sorry).

Anyway, Love you Lasairiona you always know how to write my fav kind of man. Keep it up. Oh thanks for the Arc too.

[Rowena · Rating 5 out of 5]

A steamy and emotional must read!

A steamy and emotional addition to the series! Athena’s story is here and it was so worth the wait. I love how her history with Scott starts off and only gets more intense as their story have several tension and push pull moments that will have you at the edge wondering will they or not. But in between these moments are some dark and heartbreaking events that will only make you fall more in love with the characters. This family is so strong together and they prove to be there for each other. If your a fan of sports romance and this series is a must read for you!

[Dee Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bright Eyes & Gizmo
I loved this but it made me cry! This is so deep, realistic, raw, gritty and emotional. Make sure you check the warnings as some content is confronting.
Athena is such a strong woman and to witness her struggles was heart wrenching. I loved how supportive and focused her family are, her brothers, mother and Abuelita are ride or die in any situation. Scott claimed my heart. He has to be the most devoted, aware, selfless and loving book boyfriend there ever was.
This is full of witty, sassy banter, found family, drama, humour, longing, denial, romance, steam and swoons.
I couldn’t put it down, Athena’s story brings bravery to a new level.