Rating: 4 out of 5.

Grady is a pro NHL player that sustained a torn rotator cuff while saving a man from drowning. He missed the last 6 games of the season and had surgery, but the recurring nightmares and fear of water are messing with him more than his physical injuries. He returns to his small town of Holden Cove to recover and is matched with one of his childhood friend’s sister, Jill, for a community reading program between his hockey team and her library. She’s off limits, but tell that to the instant chemistry that sparks between the couple.

Jill needs the program to go well to keep her job, and the last thing she needs is to be paired with her school girl crush, Grady. Especially if it means public speaking and being the center of attention, which has always given her soul crushing anxiety. So, when she sees Grady having an anxious episode, she’s able to soothe him and bring him out of it. It was sweet seeing big strong Grady vulnerable with Jill, and even sweeter seeing him allow her to help him. He opens up to her more than anyone else, and works to help her get out of her comfort zone, trust herself, and overcome her depression and anxiety after a bad breakup.

When they finally can’t resist the chemistry between them, they decide to have fun for the summer and then return to their regular lives. Their flirty banter is adorable, and Jill’s over-the-top protective big brother – with a badge, no less – was a hoot. Every girl needs a big bro like that. Well, within reason. But this is a rom com, and feelings get felt and things get more serious than expected. But Jill has no desire to leave Holden Cove or live in the spotlight, and Grady has never wanted anything in his life except hockey, until Jill. Will they figure it out?

This book is a quick, fun read and hits all the right notes in a sweet, spicy hockey romance. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but I will certainly be reading more by her. I’ll also be going back to read the first book in the series, Down & Dirty.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from The Author Agency. All opinions are my own.