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Nashville Steel #1

Sneak Attack

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From the author of the Raleigh Rough Riders and Las Vegas Vipers, comes a brand new, steamy and emotional sports romance series.

A sneak attack by the girl who broke my heart, reminds me what could have been…

I might have made it as an NFL quarterback, but I was still me– still living in my hometown north of Nashville and tackling being a single dad. The media assumed I wore a halo beneath my helmet, but they didn’t know my tragic past. I was no angel.

Because the only woman I ever truly loved was the girl who stole my heart when it was committed to another, and I never recovered from the mess we created.

Seven years is a long time to wait for a second chance. I tried to move on and live without her. Now, Eden’s returned home to haunt me all over again, making me feel all the things I can’t deny when she’s near.

She might have her running shoes strapped on tight, but I’m desperate for her to stay this time. In order to do that, I need to find a way for us to put the past where it truly belongs, buried six feet deep with the person whose death still stands between us.

I didn’t become one of the best in the league by playing it safe. Eden’s always been mine, and it’s time she finally learns it, too.

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 21, 2023

296 people are currently reading
739 people want to read

About the author

Stacey Lynn

76 books2,284 followers
Stacey Lynn likes her coffee with a dash of sugar, her heroes with a side of bossy, and her wine a deep shade of red.

The author of over thirty romance novels, many of which have been best-selling titles on Amazon, AppleBooks, and Barnes & Noble.

Born in Texas and raised in the Midwest, she now makes her home in North Carolina and loves all things Southern. Together with her ultimate tall, dark, and handsome hero, she has four children. Her life is a chaotic mess that fights with her Type-A, list-making, neurotically organized preferences and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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5 stars
287 (40%)
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249 (34%)
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138 (19%)
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30 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
Profile Image for Raffaella.
1,951 reviews303 followers
September 14, 2024
Just no. Everyone is awful in this book, the hero the heroine and ow. Hero and heroine met last year of high school, he kissed her even though he was in a relationship with another girl, then went back with his girlfriend. The heroine was new and in their school, she and the hero were attracted to each other but since the heroine was friend with his gf, she asked him to stay with his gf. Who the fugg does this. He didn’t love his gf anymore, jeez, they were kids! He should have dumped her at once, but no, he kept being with his gf and cheating with the heroine, not physically but he was in love with her,what kind of morals does he have? One night the gf found them kissing, run away distraught and was killed by a truck. The heroine left without a world, the hero impregnated one of his late gfs friends in a drunk ONS. Classy. Seven years later the heroine is back in town. She suffered because she felt guilty but everyone is guilty here, the hero, the heroine and ow, who was the one who took the hero’s gf to see him and the heroine kissing. So no one is innocent. And they all deceived poor gf for months because the hero didn’t have the guts to dump her, which would have been the best thing to do, since he planned to dump her when high school ended so he could be with the heroine, and the heroine agreed with this awful plan. So they kept lying and deceiving poor gf, deluding her because they both knew the hero was going to dump her eventually. This was cruel and dishonest. And the whole town thinks the hero is some kind of saint while he’s the worst of hypocrites. Give me a honest man every day, even if honest means to be cruel sometimes. The heroine is a martyr and she blames herself but she was also very hypocritical. I don’t think what they did was anything but honorable and honest. Lying and deceiving is always wrong. And the hero has a child with ow, which is something I hate. The reconciliation between him and the heroine is so sudden it gave me whiplash. One moment he blames her and insults her, one hour later he wants her back and she is so on with it it’s not even funny. Not for me.
Safety not good.
I think the hero was with his gf, even physically, while they were in high school and he was already in love with the heroine because he told her that when he was with his gf he thought of the heroine, yuck, gross. And during the separation he was with his dead gf bff and had a child with her, even if it was only once. Then he said he never dated anyone but I don’t think it means he was ever celibate, probably he had ONS or casual affairs. Not a manwhore though, which was good. Little joys in life. The heroine dated other men and was not celibate but never had serious relationships.
The hero wasn’t able to find the heroine because she changed location and deleted all her socials, and her parents never said where she was, but he tried.
I didn’t like that he had a good life after he had the child while the heroine suffered for years. He was the one who was to blame most, because he cheated on his gf, and there’s no karma here. And what’s this thing that he was happy when ow told him she was pregnant, even if he didn’t love ow and didn’t even like her, as in ever! This is unrealistic. It makes more sense that he was pissed and hoped she got rid of it, not because I approve of it, but why should he ever want a child with some random woman, a woman he didn’t even like, when he was admittedly in love with the heroine? As I said, nonsense.
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,277 reviews149 followers
September 13, 2024

Sneak Attack is the first book in a new hockey romance written by Stacey Lynn. It was a first for me reading this author's work, and I was sucked into the story from the beginning to end, thanks to the writing, the storyline, and all the feels that were conveied.

Eden comes back to Marysville to help her ill old neighbour. Coming back after seven years and to face her past isn't easy for Eden, will she forgive herself in order to go on? Or will she run away holding on her faults?
Cole is an NFL player and the town golden boy, now that the woman he loves, and that he loved for years, is back he wants to finally conquer her.

Eden and Cole journey is packed with drama, sorrow, sweetness, affection and passion.
Eden is a sensitive woman, and Cole is a kind man, they didn't expect that their mistake could have such terrible consequences, that they faced in different ways, the first ran away and the latter seeked forgiveness. They never stopped to love each other when they were far away, and they have little to no chance to stay away now that they live in the same town.
I adored the way Cole kept fighting for their love, eventually putting Eden on the spot in order to make her understand she deserved to be loved and happy.

Having met some of Cole's teammates I'm looking forward to next book.


Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,494 reviews56 followers
June 19, 2023
Second chance to make you swoon

In preparation for book 2, I realized I never read book 1 when it came out despite having bought it so here we are.

I loved both Eden and Cole but I absolutely adored
Marley
. She was the reason these two got their second chance and HEA that seems lost to them both. It was hard reading how Eden struggled with her guilt. She was just wandering through life and barely existed. But coming face to face with the man who was left behind, she's forced once and for all to fight her demons. Cole is stunned to see her back. But once the shock wears off, he sees that this is his chance to finally get the woman who was always meant to be his.

This book made me tear up and then smile so big I thought it would wrap around my head. It was a perfect book for a perfect Monday.
Profile Image for Stacey Lynn.
Author 76 books2,284 followers
Read
March 21, 2023
Cole Buchanan might be a single dad with his roots planted deep in his small town, but that's where his good guy image ends. Underneath all that football padding and gear is a man with a tragic past that only woman can unlock. Eden.
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Pre-Order SNEAK ATTACK today!
Release Date: March 21st
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Profile Image for Capt..
579 reviews75 followers
September 29, 2024
I have been in my weekly slump lately and maybe that is why I liked this book when normally I would hate it lol. I will reread this down the line when I'm normal again.

The background is that 7yrs ago, Eden was new to town because her family just moved in, before school starts, Eden met Cole in what would become their secret spot in the future, and formed a connection. Unbeknownst to Eden, Cole also goes to the same school as her and currently in a breakup with his girlfriend who he is planning to get back together because said gf was begging for it.
Eden became friends with Hillary and then she met Cole again, this is where she found out that Cole is Hillary's boyfriend. Drama ensues, as well as emotional cheating and honestly I felt bad for Hillary because she really is just a sweet girl.

Long story short, Hillary was hit by a truck because she was running away after witnessing Cole and Eden kiss. Eden was so depressed and guilty that's why she ran away and moved out, Cole's brain cells declined for a moment because Eden broke his heart when she ran away coupled with the guilt with Hillary making him have a drunken ONS with Hillary's other friend who always has hots for Cole in HS, the ONS resulted in a baby LMAO now that I am typing this I am actually getting pissed off...maybe I hate this book after all...

One thing I remembered I liked was that Eden did not remain celibate during the separation, she mentioned having casual boyfriends and ONS but never serious ones and Cole other than that drunken ONS, he kept waiting for Eden to come back and mentioned that he was also looking for her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,384 reviews48 followers
March 16, 2023
I loved it. You've got a single dad, second chance, small town, sports romance here. And she's always been the only one for him. Eden is broken by her past and she heals in these pages. Not just because of Cole, either, but confronting everything and being surrounded by people who love and support her. Oh, and Cole is such a good daddy- swoon, seriously. And when he and Eden get together, it's so good. Like, he calls her good girl and she's into it. Not a super heavy read, but the feels are there.

I haven't read this author before but I'd definitely pick up book two.
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,114 reviews104 followers
March 21, 2023
4.5 stars

I loved this story, and adored the characters, so set aside some time for this small-town, second-chance romance. It has been seven years since Cole and Eden have seen each other. Cole is a quarterback in the NFL, a single dad, and Eden has his heart.

If Eden were not needed, she would have never returned home. She did a good job of hiding these past few years. Too much guilt and pain are mixed with tragic memories in their small town. But Marley needs her, as her days are numbered. You will have your heart rung out, as many emotions will be used throughout the book. There is drama and hope, and in the end, I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Tara.
428 reviews10 followers
March 21, 2023
3.5 stars
This is one of those books that you go into and it hooks right from the very beginning. First off the tropes in this book- small town, single dad, second chance, sport romance AND she’s always been the only one for him. Like come on, everything about that screams perfect.
I was really pleasantly surprised with this book I didn’t really have any expectations going into it and Eden and Cole’s relationship was definitely more of a complicated one that I was expecting but I was so intrigued. Their past definitely added a layer of mystery and curiosity of the book that made me want to keep reading. I literally binge this book and like two sittings.
You quite literally watched Eden Hill and learn to cope with her trauma throughout this book and wallet didn’t really go too much into detail. I thought it was done well.
I’m a sucker for kids in a book, I don’t necessarily seek out single parent tropes, but when they pop up I definitely don’t mind it and I love Jasper’s addiction to the story, while I definitely didn’t love Selma, my heart just had a little soft spot for Jasper.
Stacey Lynn also did a wonderful job of creating, a very vivid, end easy to imagine world. It felt very immersive while I was reading it, and like I was living the town, which is one of my favorite parts of reading.
Overall, this was my first book I’ve read from Stacey Lynn but I really enjoyed it and I definitely want to keep going with the series cause I’m intrigued to read Maggie’s story.

*Thank you Valentine PR, Stacey Lynn and team for an eARC in exchange, for an honest review, all opinions above are 100% my own*
Profile Image for amari.
311 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2023
3.5⭐️

I adored this book! This book was a small town,second chance romance following Eden and Cole who hadn’t seen each other in seven years. Eden is back in town after her friend needs her, and Cole is a single dad, football player who has loved no one more than Eden. This book was heart wrenching and so amazing. It discusses grieving, life and death, forgiveness, and how finding someone you love is such a special thing! Jasper was such a cute addition, he was the cutest thing ever! The side characters in this book were so caring and integral in the connection Eden and Cole had! I really liked this book and I definitely recommend it!

Favorite Quote:
“We both might have grown, Eden, but I’m still that same man who will fight for what I want. And win at any costs.”

Special thanks to Valentinepr and the author for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mary Allison.
590 reviews20 followers
March 21, 2023
Sneak Attack by Stacey Lynn — OUT MARCH 21, 2023

If you love
— hot quarterbacks
— second chance romances
— small towns
— single dads

this one is for YOU!

This is the first book in the Nashville Steel series — a new football romance series by Stacey Lynn. It was a steamy one that checks all the boxes. I loved Eden and Cole and watching them rebuild their relationship. Not to mention, Cole’s adorable son 🥹

I will say, this is not a light romance — it does touch quite a bit on loss and grieving. To me, it added more to the plot.

This is the first book I’ve read by Stacey Lynn, but it won’t be the last! I look forward to the rest of this series, as week as checking out her other sports romance series.

Thank you Valentine PR and Stacey Lynn for an eARC in exchange for my honest review <3
Profile Image for Laurie.
1,555 reviews34 followers
April 2, 2023
After learning that Marley, the woman who's been like a grandmother to her, is facing a terminal diagnosis, veterinary technician Eden Barclay knows that the time has come to return to the small town of Marysville, Tennessee. She hasn't been back since the summer after her high school graduation, when her friend and classmate Hilary was killed in a tragic accident. Blaming herself for Hilary's death, Eden fled town and cut off contact with everyone but Marley - including Hilary's former boyfriend, Cole Buchanan, who'd secretly been in love with Eden since she moved to Marysville at the start of senior year. Cole is now a professional football player for the Nashville Steel and single father to 5-year-old Jasper. Even though it's been seven years since he last saw Eden, he still hasn't gotten over her, and seeing her again reminds him of all the dreams they once shared. Can they work through the baggage of their past to build a future together?

To me, this story had a slightly different feel and tone than the author's last few books, but I think that's one of the things I liked best about it. Even though sports played an important role in the story, it felt more like a small town romance. It was really the best of both worlds, and I thoroughly enjoyed the combination. The truth of what happened between Cole, Eden, and Hilary seven years ago took some time to be revealed, and to be honest, it was a little frustrating at times until it all came together. When it did, however, my heart broke for all of them and I completely understood why Eden felt she had to leave. I really appreciated that she and Cole took the time to work through everything that had happened back then before officially moving forward with their relationship, and the slow burn chemistry as they did so was totally worth the wait.

Overall, "Sneak Attack" was an emotional roller-coaster but I loved it anyway. I highly recommend it for all fans of angsty/emotional contemporary romance and look forward to finding out where the series goes from here. I'm sure we'll see more of Cole's teammates, but I'd love to read stories about several of the secondary characters from Marysville too (especially veterinarian Nora and Hilary's brother Nate).

*Review copy provided by the author via Valentine PR. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Karen.
5,385 reviews74 followers
March 22, 2023
I was a little unsure why he was so upset in the beginning.
Profile Image for Anita Byars.
1,429 reviews13 followers
March 20, 2023
Get ready to Swoon harder than you’ve ever swooned before. This is a book that makes you feel from the moment you start reading until the very end, a book you can’t wait to get into and a book that once you’re in, you’re trapped, you’ll never want to get out. Full of forgiveness, grief, life, death, angst, heat, heart, emotions, passion and swoon. I LOVED reading this small town, second chance romance story!

It’s been seven, hard years since Eden has been in Marysville Tennessee, seven years, since she had sworn never to return. But when Marley Bickerstaff, an elderly neighbor/ grandma asks her to return home so she can see her one last time, she honors her request and returns to take care of her until she passes. But Marley has another reason to want Eden to return and that is for Cole.

Cole Buchanan is the small town hero who is now a NFL Quarterback for the Nashville Steel Football team. He has a five year old son named Jasper that helped him turn his life around after a tragedy that left him and Eden broken. But Jasper’s mother Selma has her own agenda as well and Eden isn’t in it. But Cole is the boy that Eden loved and the boy who was never hers to love, never hers to have, but they hadn’t cared until that fateful night. Is that magnetic force there still between them? Will love and forgiveness guide them back to each other? You will definitely want to read this to get all the yummy details.

Filled with page after page of heart pumping drama and an emotional journey that left this reader mesmerized by the the pure beauty of this masterpiece.

Stacey Lynn has just given me the best feeling in the world. You know the one… that little zip of excitement when you find a new author, and they’ve got the magical “thing” that makes you want to devour their back list… It’s epic right? Believe me you will not want to put this woman’s stuff down. Blending smart, sexy romance with heart racing, fist pumping, emotionally heartwarming and heartbreaking, wide grin on your face great read. I can’t wait to read more in this series!!

I voluntarily requested an early copy and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,207 reviews109 followers
March 23, 2023
(I received an ARC for this book)

Trigger Warnings include:
death, grieving, cancer

Before I say anything, I need to say this: I ADORED Eden and Cole. Top level “aw” swoony. Heart melting. My hand spent a lot of time on my chest while I “aw-ed” and giggled. They alone got this book to four stars, because THEY deserved that much. Some of the other parts of the book, however, weren’t as appealing to me. For starters, I specifically wanted to read this book because of the sports romance aspect of it. However, that was almost non-existent. I loved this author’s recent hockey series, and thought for sure this would be my newest football romance obsession. I did like the introduction to other players on the team! They seem like a good time, and definitely worth building a series around! My second issue was that awful mother to his (so sweet) son. I spent the majority of the book worried that crazy woman was going to do something nuts! They had enough to deal with emotionally and mentally. We could have skipped out on that drama! Back to the things I loved! Once Eden was back in Cole’s grasp, he had no issue or hesitation admitting his feelings, his love, his determination to prove his heart to her. It was so sweet watching him fall in love with her all over again. (Not that he ever fell outta love with her!) I genuinely wouldn’t change a single thing about Eden or Cole, or journey to find their forever. And the very best part? There was no third act break up!

My Favorite Quotes:
• “You’ve always been mine.”
• “You’re the only woman I’ve ever wanted in that way. The only woman I’ve ever loved.”
• “Once you’re ready, I’m going to explore every single inch of you I never got to do before.”
• “You never have to ask for this after all the years I’ve waited for you to be right here.”
• “You’re never more beautiful than when you’re letting loose like this.”
• “Finish for me, Eden. Get there. Let me feel you when I’m deep inside you.”

7/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 Second Chance
9/10 Single Parent
6/10 Sports Romance
4/10 Tearjerker
Profile Image for Soly's Books.
426 reviews6 followers
March 26, 2023
Depuis "One more song" (l'une de mes romances préférées") je suis Stacey Lynn et si elle n'est plus traduite en français, je continue à la suivre en VO : cette fois, elle débute une nouvelle série autour du football américain avec une histoire très originale et poignante puisque nos deux héros sont tombés amoureux l'un de l'autre quand ils étaient au lycée mais le jeune homme, alors quaterback, sortait avec la fille en vue du lycée et même s'ils ont résisté, ils ont fini par se faire prendre lors d'un baiser et la jeune fille, folle de chagrin, a pris sa voiture et malheureusement, un camion passait par là et elle est morte.
Eden, notre héroïne, dévorée par le remord, a mis sa vie entre parenthèses pendant des années et s'était jurée de ne plus revenir dans cette ville où vivait encore le seul homme qu'elle ait jamais aimé mais après 7 ans, une de ses amies âgées proches, se sentant mourir, lui demande de revenir et elle ne peut ignorer cet appel : elle est donc de retour dans cette petite ville, au Nord de Nashville où évidemment, elle va devoir faire face à ce passé qu'elle fuit depuis 7 longues années et inexorablement, elle va recroiser, Cole, toujours joueur de football mais qui est resté dans sa ville natale, au lieu d'aller vers l'avenir prometteur qui s'annonçait car il est devenu père d'un adorable petit bonhomme après une nuit avec Selma, elle aussi dans leur lycée et qui lui court après depuis toujours. Mais s'il adore son fils, il est hors de question pour lui de l'épouser et de faire sa vie avec elle, malgré les menaces, ses crises et son intrusion dans sa vie. Or, quand Eden réapparait, il sait que sa vie va de nouveau changer car il est hors de question qu'il la laisse de nouveau le quitter, quitte pour cela à affronter sa colère et leur passé. Mais si lui semble avoir fait la paix avec ses souvenirs, qu'en est-il pour Eden? Elle qui ne cesse de se blâmer, pourra-t-elle ouvrir son coeur à Cole et vivre enfin leur amour promis? Quid de Selma? du reste de la ville? eh bien vous le saurez en lisant cet excellent premier tome.
Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2023/...
Profile Image for Naomi (aplace_inthesun).
1,180 reviews35 followers
March 22, 2023
Gah, this book is as sweet as.

It's a second chance romance - well in as much as the main characters shared one kiss seven years previously with disastrous results. Eden and Cole were part of a wider group of friends in high school. Cole was dating Hilary and broke it off. Later at a party Hilary finds our Eden and Cole want to be together, and has a fatal accident. Soon after Eden and her parents leave town, and Cole heads to college, realising his dream of playing in the NFL. Seven years later Eden returns to town at the request of an elderly neighbour Marley, who needs Eden to care for her, as she has been given few weeks to live. Cole has never left town but now he has a five year old son Jasper - with Selma, another one of their prior classmates. So damn complicated!

Whilst this is a sports romance, the sport is more the backstory here, with some preseason and games included, but it's more of a plot device to introduce other characters or relationships. We know Cole has a shit-ton of money but prefers to stay in his home-town, close to his parents who help with Jasper. He's not averse to using his power and financial status to throw out the occasional threat to Selma.

There's no "big game" or team rivalry per se in the book, with most of the book focused on the relationships between Eden and Cole, set within the context of their personal history, as well as Marley's illness, and to some extent her dying wish to see Eden and Cole explore their feelings for one another.

It's a book where both characters are really aware of their own feelings towards the other party from early on, without having expressed them. Cole is more declarative, and Eden is used to running scared. There's alot from Selma as the squeaky wheel. She's bitter and toxic, and attempts to use Jasper as leverage.

The romance between Eden and Cole is gentle and a realisation, definitely bittersweet. It probably lacks a little of that burning passion IMO that would really take this to a higher level for me. Instead there's that safety, security, and knowing this couple will likely get their HEA from the get-go which is still nice, with the acknowledgement they have probably been through enough.

Thanks to Valentine PR for an advanced copy of this book to read and review.

4.5 stars
Profile Image for Vicky.lovesreading.
483 reviews9 followers
March 14, 2023
Tropes

Second chance
Enemies to lovers
Sports romance
Single dad
Tragic past
Small town

Nashville Steel series book 1

From the start I knew this book was going to make me emotional. Eden’s raw grief and heartache seeped through the pages and into my heart. She had hoped to never return to the place where her heart shattered, to see the boy she loved now with someone else and have a family that she had always wanted.

“If I left now, I’d never heal. I’d never move on, and I’d certainly never trust anyone again.”

Cole wasn’t happy for Eden to be back but at the same time he was desperate to find a way to keep her in town, to stop her from running away from him again.

“Ever since Marley told me she’d asked Eden to return, I’d counted down to this day. Anticipation. Fury. Guilt. It clawed at me, kept me up at night, last night in particular. It was like I could sense her.”

Eden holds so much guilt and resentment of herself because of her love for Cole and the accident that happened. He found a way to let it go but she just can’t do it and expects everyone to still blame her.

“He should have hated me, wanted nothing to do with me except twice he sought me out. Tried to talk. And both times, I’d run like the coward I still was. Time marched on, but some things never changed.”

The story is heartfelt and manages to balance sport, romance and angst so well. The slow burn of the romance was well written and felt perfect in the execution.

“And then Cole devoured me, sent my body overheating and my core throbbing with just a kiss and a gentle tantalizing brush of his thumb at my cheek. He didn’t move closer, didn’t push the weight of him against me. I wasn’t quite sure if that was a blessing or a curse because I was pretty sure if I did feel the weight of him, I might shatter.”

I highly recommend this book to read! I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,184 reviews72 followers
March 17, 2023
You know that feeling when there’s an extremely bitter, nasty, vindictive party who just can’t stand the fact that the person they want doesn’t want them? Well, I thought I knew how it would turn out. And I was sort of right, but also way wrong. This is more than just a second chance for two people who got it all so wrong the first time around. There’s more than just two hearts involved. It’s messy, chaotic, emotional, and so realistic.

Eden doesn’t want to return to the scene of her crime, but she has no choice. The one woman who loved her unconditionally through it all has one favor to ask, and Eden simply can’t deny her. But then she sees Cole. And his son. And Selma. And she almost backs out of that favor. Luckily, she’s not built to back down, even when faced with so much anger and viciousness at first. Then when the anger cools, she and Cole communicate and find that they’re still very much enamored with each other. There’s a problem though. He’s got a reputation to uphold and one person can destroy it all.

As much as I thoroughly enjoyed the takedown of that person in the end, I also really liked how the entire truth came out to those who mattered, but their world didn’t collapse. And maybe that angry person catches a clue when all is said and done. We can hope. But I’m also already putting said person aside because this book is the start of a series that has some serious promise. I already can’t wait to find out if Davis is really all jokes and fun, or if there’s something much deeper he’s hiding under the humor.
Profile Image for Destany.
459 reviews18 followers
March 18, 2023
I received an ARC of this book via Valentine PR. All views are my own.

I was emotionally blind-sided by this book. I did not expect to be so upset while reading a sports romance hahah But honestly, this book deals with heavier emotions, illness and grief/death (in both the past and present), and it actually ripped my heart out. I felt so wrung out after reading this hahah I cried! This book actually ran me through a gambit of emotions I wasn't prepared for.

After sharing a significantly traumatic event with her peers, Eden skips town, leaving Cole behind to sift through the wreckage. But when Eden is called back to town, she can't say no and must confront her past as she navigates living among those she left behind. One of her biggest regrets is leaving behind her soulmate, Cole, the man she was drawn to most in the world.

Cole is just trying to keep his son happy, the mother of his son at a distance and play football. He didn't expect to have to deal with tragic events from his past - but that's what he finds himself doing when Eden rolls back into town. But can he hold back his feelings when he knows he's never stopped loving her?

I absolutely adore little kids in romance stories. Cole's son, jasper, is the sweetest little boy! This love story is far from easy, as lots of things pile up in their way. But will dealing with the tragedies in the past and present bring Cole and Eden back together?
Profile Image for M'Kenzee | mkenzees_bookshelf.
310 reviews22 followers
March 19, 2023
Okay this was one of the most addicting books I’ve read in a while. I started and finished it within 48 hours. There was a hint of mystery/intrigue around Cole and Eden’s past that kept me interested the entire time. And I always love a good sports romance!

While the read was addicting, and I loved that Cole and Eden found their way back to each other, I also felt like something was missing. I wish the full story of their past and what happened that fateful night that forced Eden to run in the first place was fully explained from beginning to end in one scene, rather than bits and pieces alluded to here and there. I got the gist of what happened but I think the full explanation in one scene would’ve made it more impactful.

I was also constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop with Selma and when it finally did (sort of) on the last chapter if felt super rushed. The only other thing I was hoping for was an epilogue that took place a little further in the future - but that’s my own personal preference!

Overall, I devoured the story even though I felt like some things were lacking. I think this one would be a great slump breaker or palate cleanser. Also, there are some tough topics discussed so check TW prior just in case!

Thank you Valentine PR for the arc in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻

Read if you like:
🏈 sports romance
❤️‍🩹 second chance
👨🏻 single dad
🏡 small town
✌🏻 dual pov
Profile Image for Romancewitham .
454 reviews22 followers
March 21, 2023
Sneak Attack (ARC review)

It's been a while since I read this author and I can say I wasn't disappointed in the least. The writing was so beautiful and the story so special and heartbreakingly wonderful. Cole and Eden were soulmates in my book, they had invisible string tying them to eachother. Their past is truly heartbreaking tragic and I loved how this book wasn't only about love but also about forgiveness, moving on and finding happiness after something traumatic. Eden is a very relatable character, she was a younger girl that run when younger cause she was scared. The courage she had as a woman was admiring, her coming back to the small town that haunted her was a huge step. Watching her find her light while staying there was so beautiful and comforting. Cole was a great man, made his mistakes when he was a kid and now seven years later he was trying his best to be the best father his son could have. The bond he had with little Jasper was so precious and you could feel how much that little boy meant to him. Watching Cole trying to make Eden see that what happened years ago wasn't her fault and him being there showing her his love for her was truly incredible. Their moments were so unique and I'm so happy I got to see them communicated and comfort eachother. Also Eden's interactions with Jasper were so cute, I may have wanted more. An incredible book, truly.

Book by: Stacey Lynn
Tropes:
• Sports romance
• First love
• Close proximity
• Second chance
• Siingle parent
• Small town romance
• Star-crossed lovers
• Tragic past

My rating: 4,5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2/5 🔥
Profile Image for Donna.
1,434 reviews14 followers
March 20, 2023
Nashville Steel #1

Eden is back in her hometown of Marysville, Tenn. where she swore 7 years ago she would never come back. She is back to help care for Marley Bickerstaff who was her neighbor across the street when her parents moved them to this town. Marley is dying and wants Eden to come back and see her, so Eden is there.

Eden is broken and hasn't healed since she left Marysville thinking it was her fault that a friend had died. She left the guy she loved and hasn't spoken to her parents, just barely living and getting by each day.

Cole is 26 and a single dad to a 5 yr old boy. He's also the starting NFL quarterback for the Nashville Steel. He was living his dream of playing football but hasn't gotten over Eden even though he tried to move on, but now she's back and he wants a 2nd chance.

They still have the chemistry and the love is there too but can they get beyond the past and all the hurt it caused?

4.5 stars
Profile Image for D.
376 reviews16 followers
March 24, 2023

4⭐️
Eden and Cole were meant for each other. They first met years ago when they were still in high school. Instantly they formed a connection and they always knew that they were meant for each other. However, they couldn’t be together at the time. Tragedy struck and drove them away from each other… until now. It’s been 7 years since they last saw each other and their chemistry is still there.

At first I found this book slow. It had a slower start due to Eden and Cole trying to navigate their raw and hurt feelings. When they do get together they are absolutely amazing. They are so cute and totally in love with each other. They were 100% meant to be together and I’m so happy they got their HEA. I love sports romances and the single parent trope, this book nailed it. Cute, heartwarming, emotional. I loved it!!!
Thank you Valentine PR and Stacey Lynn for this ARC.
1,529 reviews45 followers
November 16, 2024
Eden left the town behind for a good reason, but now she has to return, because the one person she can’t say no to is dying and wants her there. Eden knows that she’s going to have to face Cole and the past they had together and what they caused, something she’s never been able to let go.
Cole has looked for Eden for all the years that she’s been gone and never found one trace of her, until she returns and this time he’s not letting her go.
Eden sees Cole’s son and Selma glad that they found happiness after everything that went on. Although what Cole tells her doesn’t match up with what she’s seen.
Cole knows that he’s let Selma do whatever she wants to keep peace for his sons sake, but he know that if he’s ever got a chance with Eden that it needs to stop.
Can they get their second chance and will Cole help Eden heal from the past.
Profile Image for Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads.
2,290 reviews20 followers
March 15, 2023
Give me all the emotional second chance romances, I’ll never tire of them. “Sneak Attack” is an emotional and heartfelt second chance romance that pulled on my heart strings in the best possible way.

Eden is back in town, after being gone for years, to help her friend, Marley, who is sick. Eden left after some unfortunate circumstances and is anxious to be back after all those years. Cole Buchanan is a professional football player, a single Dad, and the one who got away from Eden. Their past is full of tragedy but being back in town gives a glimmer of hope of what they had is still there.

I loved the angst and emotional connection between Eden and Cole. I could feel how much they cared for each other as I read and felt connected to their story right away. The added drama of Eden coming back had me turning the pages. Eden had a hard time when she was younger but found salvation helping animals. Her heart is big and full of so much love that spills into who she cares for. Cole is such a devoted Dad to his son, Jasper and I loved how close they were. The overall story is sweet with a positive message from Marley and made me cry at the end. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Molly  Scicluna.
578 reviews27 followers
March 24, 2023
Stacey Lynn has officially dived into the world of Football Romance!

Cole and Eden are the epitome of second chance romance and to add to it....the slow burn.

Eden has returned to the small town she ran away from seven years ago....and the first and only man she ever loved. She has been going through the motions of life but hasn't truly been living. She is holding onto so much guilt and shame and she isn't sure how to move forward.

Cole is a star quarterback for the Nashville Steel and a single dad. He has only ever loved one woman in his life...and that woman just landed back in town. The patience he shows her and the way he finally gets her to open up to him is beautiful.
Profile Image for Kristin ~ Book Lovers Obsession.
994 reviews15 followers
May 15, 2023

Eden ran away from town after a tragic event in high school and has never recovered. She also never forgot him.

Cole was in love with one girl but dating another. When tragedy strikes and everything changes in an instant, Cole has to adapt. When the actions fueled by his grief and guilt end come with consequences, he is forced to step up. Forced to live. But he never forgot her.

Back in town at the request of the old lady in town that mothered them all, Eden and Cole are forced to face some hard truths.

This was a great start to a new series! There was so much more to this story than the romance piece and I am here for it!
Profile Image for Lymari Yenderrozos.
748 reviews19 followers
March 24, 2023
Such a good start to a new series by Stacey Lynn! This book was incredibly angsty, super sweet, emotional, yet had incredible spice. I adored Cole and Eden and how they worked through their complicated past. Really wonderful read! *I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,252 reviews123 followers
November 28, 2023
As we follow Eden and Cole on their poignant journey, the narrative unfolds as a tale of healing, forgiveness, and a rekindled love that stands the test of time. Despite the challenges posed by the past, the intense emotions between them remain undiminished, creating a story that resonates with themes of enduring love and the power of second chances.

Full review at https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
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