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All In #1
A Lie for a Lie
From the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series comes a romantic comedy about instant attraction, second chances, and not-so-little white lies.
Sometimes I need an escape from the demands, the puck bunnies, and the notoriety that come with being an NHL team captain. I just want to be a normal guy for a few weeks. So when I leave Chicago for some peace and quiet, the last thing I expect is for a gorgeous woman to literally fall into my lap on a flight to Alaska. Even better, she has absolutely no idea who I am.
Lainey is the perfect escape from my life. My plan for seclusion becomes a monthlong sex fest punctuated with domestic bliss. But it ends just as abruptly as it began. When I’m called away on a family emergency, I realize too late that I have no way to contact Lainey.
A year later, a chance encounter throws Lainey and me together again. But I still have a lie hanging over my head, and Lainey’s keeping secrets of her own. With more than lust at stake, the truth may be our game changer.
Sometimes I need an escape from the demands, the puck bunnies, and the notoriety that come with being an NHL team captain. I just want to be a normal guy for a few weeks. So when I leave Chicago for some peace and quiet, the last thing I expect is for a gorgeous woman to literally fall into my lap on a flight to Alaska. Even better, she has absolutely no idea who I am.
Lainey is the perfect escape from my life. My plan for seclusion becomes a monthlong sex fest punctuated with domestic bliss. But it ends just as abruptly as it began. When I’m called away on a family emergency, I realize too late that I have no way to contact Lainey.
A year later, a chance encounter throws Lainey and me together again. But I still have a lie hanging over my head, and Lainey’s keeping secrets of her own. With more than lust at stake, the truth may be our game changer.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2019
5,951 people are currently reading
35.8k people want to read
About the author
Helena Hunting
77books25.7kfollowersHelena Hunting is the author of The USA Today and NYT bestselling PUCKED Series. She lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes everything from romantic sports comedy to new adult angst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,136 reviews
September 28, 2019
A Lie for a lie
A kiss for a kiss
A surprise for a surprise
It's like they are meant to be......
Helena has cornered the market on Hockey sports romance pretty much like a queen.
Her family of characters continues to grow and we get to enjoy hilarious and poignant anecdotes from the sidelines. She introduces us to another star athlete -Rook RJ Bowman, who's the Captain of Chicago's NHL team and a chick magnate.
"Being a professional hockey player in Chicago is like being Britney Spears in Vegas."
To find some alone, normal time away from screaming fans and puck bunnies, he's off to Alaska. On the way a beautiful nerdy beauty falls into his lap and he saves her from a Chokehold..legit, not even kidding.
Lips meet cheeks and breaths are mingled and fates hook their pinky fingers.
Beautiful setting of cabin on the sea in Anchorage-Alaska, brrrrrrring cold outside, passion clouds up the glass inside and love blossoms in this unforgiving terrain
The story has its trademark twists and turns but it's like their lives are traveling on the same tracks and they keep meeting at unexpected stations.
It starts out with a laugh riot and then zooms in in the heart, hitting bullseye.
Helena doesn't need any introduction, her stories follow a delicious pattern of lust, romance, love and HEA.
Pick it up for a frothy and light hearted read.
4.5 stars for Human Teddy Bears with safety Cuddles
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A kiss for a kiss
A surprise for a surprise
It's like they are meant to be......
Helena has cornered the market on Hockey sports romance pretty much like a queen.
Her family of characters continues to grow and we get to enjoy hilarious and poignant anecdotes from the sidelines. She introduces us to another star athlete -Rook RJ Bowman, who's the Captain of Chicago's NHL team and a chick magnate.
"Being a professional hockey player in Chicago is like being Britney Spears in Vegas."
To find some alone, normal time away from screaming fans and puck bunnies, he's off to Alaska. On the way a beautiful nerdy beauty falls into his lap and he saves her from a Chokehold..legit, not even kidding.
Lips meet cheeks and breaths are mingled and fates hook their pinky fingers.
Beautiful setting of cabin on the sea in Anchorage-Alaska, brrrrrrring cold outside, passion clouds up the glass inside and love blossoms in this unforgiving terrain
The story has its trademark twists and turns but it's like their lives are traveling on the same tracks and they keep meeting at unexpected stations.
It starts out with a laugh riot and then zooms in in the heart, hitting bullseye.
Helena doesn't need any introduction, her stories follow a delicious pattern of lust, romance, love and HEA.
Pick it up for a frothy and light hearted read.
4.5 stars for Human Teddy Bears with safety Cuddles
#BookBistroBlogApproved
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April 1, 2021
3 Stars!
... A story set in the hockey world.
I hate myself. I loved the starting chapters, mostly the part when they were in Alaska. But when I reached the second half, I got bored. And I hated myself for that. I think the best thing that happened in the story was Kody. He was so adorable and cute!
Note: This is a sports, second chance romance.
A Lie for a Lie is the first book in the All In series.
Rook and Lainey were likeable characters. I loved their first meeting on the plane. I was so excited because I expected Alaska as the main setting, who won't love wilderness, by the way? But that's where I was wrong. After a year of losing contact, Rook and Lainey crossed paths again in Chicago. Each had a lie. A surprise that wasn't really a surprise. Ya, to be honest, this book was predictable. I don't know if it was the author's way of showing us a "dramatic irony" or she was just poor in "subtlety?"
This book was a full package of questionable reasons made use of in order to force Rook and Lainey to be together, or separating them apart, vice versa. I mean like, for example, the sharing of cabin was an obvious set up. It felt far-fetched that Lainey ended up on a beat-up cabin—she was smart—and completely unbelievable that the rental staffs were in a vacation. I don't usually mind small details like these, but I couldn't ignore it because I also travel, and I've never experienced such things before.
The countless sex but never thought of exchanging numbers was a lame set up. And folks, they didn't even have shared their complete names. It was impossible because they'd spent weeks together. We're in the 21st Century, don't we? I would know the full name of someone I attracted to on the first date.
The encounter in Chicago was an expected set up. Y'all understand what I mean? Rook was a NHL team captain in Chicago at the same time Lainey found a job she loves at the same place. I believe in fate, but seriously, just for the sake of bringing them back again? I was overwhelmed by these coincidences.
Add these things that I can't articulate anymore. The surprise trope. The hero's lie. The unseen letter in the cabin. The second chance trope. They were small things made complicated for the sake of conflict that didn't even keep my interest at all, and were the exact causes of my boredom.
Regardless, despite of these stuffs, despite it typical and predictable, I was intrigued by the secondary characters and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I recommend this to those who likes: Helena Hunting, sports, romantic comedy, second chance, insta-love, and a happily ever after.
... A story set in the hockey world.
I hate myself. I loved the starting chapters, mostly the part when they were in Alaska. But when I reached the second half, I got bored. And I hated myself for that. I think the best thing that happened in the story was Kody. He was so adorable and cute!
Note: This is a sports, second chance romance.
A Lie for a Lie is the first book in the All In series.
Rook and Lainey were likeable characters. I loved their first meeting on the plane. I was so excited because I expected Alaska as the main setting, who won't love wilderness, by the way? But that's where I was wrong. After a year of losing contact, Rook and Lainey crossed paths again in Chicago. Each had a lie. A surprise that wasn't really a surprise. Ya, to be honest, this book was predictable. I don't know if it was the author's way of showing us a "dramatic irony" or she was just poor in "subtlety?"
This book was a full package of questionable reasons made use of in order to force Rook and Lainey to be together, or separating them apart, vice versa. I mean like, for example, the sharing of cabin was an obvious set up. It felt far-fetched that Lainey ended up on a beat-up cabin—she was smart—and completely unbelievable that the rental staffs were in a vacation. I don't usually mind small details like these, but I couldn't ignore it because I also travel, and I've never experienced such things before.
The countless sex but never thought of exchanging numbers was a lame set up. And folks, they didn't even have shared their complete names. It was impossible because they'd spent weeks together. We're in the 21st Century, don't we? I would know the full name of someone I attracted to on the first date.
The encounter in Chicago was an expected set up. Y'all understand what I mean? Rook was a NHL team captain in Chicago at the same time Lainey found a job she loves at the same place. I believe in fate, but seriously, just for the sake of bringing them back again? I was overwhelmed by these coincidences.
Add these things that I can't articulate anymore. The surprise trope. The hero's lie. The unseen letter in the cabin. The second chance trope. They were small things made complicated for the sake of conflict that didn't even keep my interest at all, and were the exact causes of my boredom.
Regardless, despite of these stuffs, despite it typical and predictable, I was intrigued by the secondary characters and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I recommend this to those who likes: Helena Hunting, sports, romantic comedy, second chance, insta-love, and a happily ever after.
“Every part of you is mine, just like every part of me is yours.�
May 15, 2020
3.5 stars
I love Helena Hunting and I was so excited to read A Lie for a Lie. It had a connection to her ‘Pucked� series, which I adored and the beginning and the end of this book were amazing for me. Seriously, I loved so much of this story. BUT� and this is a big but� this book had my least favorite troupe. It took so much enjoyment out of the story for me. I’m sure it’s more of a ‘me� thing, because almost anytime I read about this in a book I’m not a fan. Either way, I loved RJ and Lainey and I’m excited to read the next book in this series which will feature Rooke’s sister and teammate. I’m here for it!
I love Helena Hunting and I was so excited to read A Lie for a Lie. It had a connection to her ‘Pucked� series, which I adored and the beginning and the end of this book were amazing for me. Seriously, I loved so much of this story. BUT� and this is a big but� this book had my least favorite troupe. It took so much enjoyment out of the story for me. I’m sure it’s more of a ‘me� thing, because almost anytime I read about this in a book I’m not a fan. Either way, I loved RJ and Lainey and I’m excited to read the next book in this series which will feature Rooke’s sister and teammate. I’m here for it!
September 10, 2019
Ughhhh. I'm upset. I went into this thinking I was going to get a cute, second-chance romance set in Alaska and instead I got . If you don't mind that trope, you'll probably enjoy this as it wasn't necessarily a terrible book! However, that trope is literally my least favorite romance trope and it ruined the entire book for me. I definitely think that the synopsis of this book should be re-worked before release because it is extremely misleading. Womp x100000000
TW: mass-shootings, death of a loved one, pregnancy complications, fear of flying
TW: mass-shootings, death of a loved one, pregnancy complications, fear of flying
September 19, 2019
An emotionally, persuasive, addicting, and enticing romance novel that will have you weak on your knees for more of Lainey and Rookie...
So I have been in such a massive book slump, a book slump that has me so behind on my ŷ book challenge. Of course, knows how to swoop in and destroy all my emotions and make me fall head over heels with her writing all over again. Not that I wasn't already, but this book slump has been killing me in the worst of ways. Lainey and Rookie have found a way to finally get me in the groove of just simply being enamored with them.
Their story is one of a kind story that had me swooning, enthralled and had me feeling so many new emotions! Everyone must read their story because it is one you don't want to miss out on ;)
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, in exchange for an honest review...
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� � �
So I have been in such a massive book slump, a book slump that has me so behind on my ŷ book challenge. Of course, knows how to swoop in and destroy all my emotions and make me fall head over heels with her writing all over again. Not that I wasn't already, but this book slump has been killing me in the worst of ways. Lainey and Rookie have found a way to finally get me in the groove of just simply being enamored with them.
Their story is one of a kind story that had me swooning, enthralled and had me feeling so many new emotions! Everyone must read their story because it is one you don't want to miss out on ;)
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, in exchange for an honest review...
Follow Me On:
� � �
October 13, 2019
FIVE STARS
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I caress the edge of her jaw and sweep my thumb along the contour of her bottom lip, enjoying the anticipation before I drop my head and touch my lips to hers. A million memories come flooding back at her soft whimper and the bite of her nails against the back of my neck. And just like every single other kiss that’s had the intention of becoming more—and even the ones that didn’t—it starts out sweet. She tastes the same, feels the same—but better. She feels like mine and home and love.
Helena Hunting is the Queen of sports romances! I am incredibly excited about her new ”All In� series. Not only was ”A LIE FOR A LIE� filled with angst that hurt so good and heart-racing steaminess, it also reunites us with most of the unforgettable characters from the ”P䰭� series. If the rest of the books are as good as this one, I have no doubt this spin-off series focusing on the newly formed NHL team in Seattle is going to become a fast fan favorite. I guarantee that readers are going to fall pretty darn hard for ROOK “RJ� Bowman! If you’re as crazy about romances with sexy Hockey players as I am, you are in for a delicious treat with RJ and Lainey’s second chance love story. I devoured this book and wish that I could go back to the beginning and read it all over again. It was just that good!!
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Nothing I can say will do the book justice. Just know that this is one you will want to drop everything for on October 15th!!
Amazon US:
Amazon UK:
Amazon CA:
Amazon AU:
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I caress the edge of her jaw and sweep my thumb along the contour of her bottom lip, enjoying the anticipation before I drop my head and touch my lips to hers. A million memories come flooding back at her soft whimper and the bite of her nails against the back of my neck. And just like every single other kiss that’s had the intention of becoming more—and even the ones that didn’t—it starts out sweet. She tastes the same, feels the same—but better. She feels like mine and home and love.
Helena Hunting is the Queen of sports romances! I am incredibly excited about her new ”All In� series. Not only was ”A LIE FOR A LIE� filled with angst that hurt so good and heart-racing steaminess, it also reunites us with most of the unforgettable characters from the ”P䰭� series. If the rest of the books are as good as this one, I have no doubt this spin-off series focusing on the newly formed NHL team in Seattle is going to become a fast fan favorite. I guarantee that readers are going to fall pretty darn hard for ROOK “RJ� Bowman! If you’re as crazy about romances with sexy Hockey players as I am, you are in for a delicious treat with RJ and Lainey’s second chance love story. I devoured this book and wish that I could go back to the beginning and read it all over again. It was just that good!!
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Nothing I can say will do the book justice. Just know that this is one you will want to drop everything for on October 15th!!
Amazon US:
Amazon UK:
Amazon CA:
Amazon AU:
April 20, 2022
I don’t know how to feel about this book.
On one hand I loved the romance and there was definitely lots of chemistry between the couple but on the other hand my least favorite trope is in this book.
The entire setting in Alaska was definitely my favorite part as well as the family focus but I often got annoyed by the y/n vibes I got from the main character.
We get a good amount of backstory for both characters but please check your trigger since it mentions school shootings.
On one hand I loved the romance and there was definitely lots of chemistry between the couple but on the other hand my least favorite trope is in this book.
The entire setting in Alaska was definitely my favorite part as well as the family focus but I often got annoyed by the y/n vibes I got from the main character.
We get a good amount of backstory for both characters but please check your trigger since it mentions school shootings.
October 14, 2019
4 STARS
ALL. OF. THE. SWOONS.
This series couldn't have started with a better book. I'm totally hooked, line and sinker, and already salivating for more. I'm head over skates in love with Rook and this swoony hockey romance about a reformed NHL star playboy and the quirky nerd that makes him fall.
Rook is an NHL star and a former manwhore. He's a man that's used to puck bunnies doing anything to get his attention and then getting even crazier to keep it. So when he meets a beautiful woman on his flight to Alaska that ends up being his neighbor, he loves the anonymity of getting to know someone as just him. Lainey is a bit of a nerd and a lot of adorable. She's a quirky, shy, sweet, and although slightly sheltered in her home schooled ways has also seen things that changed her irrevocably. They don't see the other one coming but it doesn't take long at all for them to being a whirlwind romance in the small town of Alaska. But then Rook has an emergency that forces him to leave and as fate would have it they lose touch due to a number of circumstances. Only to be reunited 14 months later in Chicago. This time, Rook knows that he'll do anything to keep Lainey, if only he can get her to forgive him for the lie.
This was so wonderfully sweet. It was brimming with emotion and sweet heat. I couldn't get enough of Rook and Lainey. I also loved Lainey's friendship with Eden, who made for a wonderful secondary character. All of your favorites make a cameo here and I loved how Helena brought it all together. I loved this sweet second chance romance and can't recommend it enough for all Helena Hunting fans. And if you haven't read any books by her yet, this is a great one to start with!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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My skin burns.
My heart stutters.
I should tell him my own truth.
But for now we’re tied: a lie for a lie.
ALL. OF. THE. SWOONS.
This series couldn't have started with a better book. I'm totally hooked, line and sinker, and already salivating for more. I'm head over skates in love with Rook and this swoony hockey romance about a reformed NHL star playboy and the quirky nerd that makes him fall.
Rook is an NHL star and a former manwhore. He's a man that's used to puck bunnies doing anything to get his attention and then getting even crazier to keep it. So when he meets a beautiful woman on his flight to Alaska that ends up being his neighbor, he loves the anonymity of getting to know someone as just him. Lainey is a bit of a nerd and a lot of adorable. She's a quirky, shy, sweet, and although slightly sheltered in her home schooled ways has also seen things that changed her irrevocably. They don't see the other one coming but it doesn't take long at all for them to being a whirlwind romance in the small town of Alaska. But then Rook has an emergency that forces him to leave and as fate would have it they lose touch due to a number of circumstances. Only to be reunited 14 months later in Chicago. This time, Rook knows that he'll do anything to keep Lainey, if only he can get her to forgive him for the lie.
This was so wonderfully sweet. It was brimming with emotion and sweet heat. I couldn't get enough of Rook and Lainey. I also loved Lainey's friendship with Eden, who made for a wonderful secondary character. All of your favorites make a cameo here and I loved how Helena brought it all together. I loved this sweet second chance romance and can't recommend it enough for all Helena Hunting fans. And if you haven't read any books by her yet, this is a great one to start with!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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November 11, 2023
Ooo.. loved A LIE FOR A LIE by Helena Hunting! In this case of secret identities, Rook and Laney meet on a flight to Alaska where both are going to catch some downtime. When her cabin turns out to be a dump, she winds up staying with him and things get steamy. Of course, he’s lying about his name, and the fact that he’s a major hockey player. Then they get separated with no way to contact each other, only to meet again over a year later by chance. Hmmm� I wonder what surprise Laney could have in store for him?
This one was lots of fun. I enjoyed the side characters. The initial relationship in Alaska had good chemistry, and then after they meet back up and discover all the secrets they’ve been keeping, Rook’s aforementioned lies and Laney’s baby surprise, the story progressed in a great way. Plus this tied into the other hockey series by Helena Hunting which I’ve read and loved and it was fun getting some glimpses of old favorite characters.
This one was lots of fun. I enjoyed the side characters. The initial relationship in Alaska had good chemistry, and then after they meet back up and discover all the secrets they’ve been keeping, Rook’s aforementioned lies and Laney’s baby surprise, the story progressed in a great way. Plus this tied into the other hockey series by Helena Hunting which I’ve read and loved and it was fun getting some glimpses of old favorite characters.
October 15, 2019
I should tell him my own truth. But for now we’re tied: a lie for a lie.
A Lie for a Lie is what I call a great start to a promising spin-off series. If you’ve read Hunting’s Pucked series, then you will be familiar with some of the characters in this one. That being said I don’t think it’s necessary to read them to enjoy this one, because I’ve only read a couple and easily followed along here. Rook and Lainey spend a sweet and steamy few weeks together in the Alaskan wilderness. But circumstances and little white lies come into play that leave them separated without a way to contact one another. When they find their way back to each other it is by fate and circumstance alone. There’s just more at play than there was the summer before when they were together.
Anyway. I don’t want to spoil anything so am I’m going to say is that this story is a second chance romance with two people who got to know each other’s heart and learned each other... well biblically... in a blissful bubble. When they meet again they learn some truths they hadn’t before, and have to figure out how they work (or don’t) in their real lives. I think Helena did a fantastic job making this one sweet, heartfelt, and steamy, while still having a bit of the funny that the series it’s spun off of had. I think the characters are great, and I’m excited to see even more of some of the new ones in the rest of the series.
If you like sports romance, second chances, or Hunting’s writing, then you definitely need to check this one out when it releases!!
Available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!!
*ARC provided by NetGalley and Montlake Romance
A Lie for a Lie is what I call a great start to a promising spin-off series. If you’ve read Hunting’s Pucked series, then you will be familiar with some of the characters in this one. That being said I don’t think it’s necessary to read them to enjoy this one, because I’ve only read a couple and easily followed along here. Rook and Lainey spend a sweet and steamy few weeks together in the Alaskan wilderness. But circumstances and little white lies come into play that leave them separated without a way to contact one another. When they find their way back to each other it is by fate and circumstance alone. There’s just more at play than there was the summer before when they were together.
Anyway. I don’t want to spoil anything so am I’m going to say is that this story is a second chance romance with two people who got to know each other’s heart and learned each other... well biblically... in a blissful bubble. When they meet again they learn some truths they hadn’t before, and have to figure out how they work (or don’t) in their real lives. I think Helena did a fantastic job making this one sweet, heartfelt, and steamy, while still having a bit of the funny that the series it’s spun off of had. I think the characters are great, and I’m excited to see even more of some of the new ones in the rest of the series.
If you like sports romance, second chances, or Hunting’s writing, then you definitely need to check this one out when it releases!!
Available on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited!!
*ARC provided by NetGalley and Montlake Romance
Read
October 8, 2019Chapter 1
Birthday Blues
Rook
Coming October 15th
Birthday Blues
Rook
“What are the chances there will be booze at a birthday party for a pair of three-year-olds?�
“Uhhhh . . . slim to none?� My sister’s voice crackles through the car speakers on a scoff. “Why are you going to a birthday party for toddlers anyway? Is this some kind of new dating strategy? Like you’ll pick up more women if they see you interacting with small children? Oh! Is this like when we went to visit Kyle, and we took Max to the zoo, and, like, five women slipped you their numbers?�
She’s referring to an incident that happened when I was visiting our older brother, Kyle, in LA earlier this summer. Our nephew is like catnip for women. “No, Stevie, it’s not like that. The party is for my teammate’s kids, and his brother-in-law used to be the team captain, so it’s a good idea for me to make an appearance.�
“Right. OK. Well, that makes it a lot less exciting.�
“Not everything about my life is exciting. What about you? Any plans this afternoon?� I need to move the conversation away from dating, because my little sister always has an opinion on my lackluster love life.
“I have a date tonight, so I need to try on half my wardrobe before I decide nothing is good enough, and then I’ll need to run out and buy something new.�
“A date? Who is he? How’d you meet him?�
“Listen to you, sounding like Dad.� Even though she laughs, there’s sadness in her voice. We lost our dad three years ago to complications from diabetes. We’re a pretty tight family, even with me living in Chicago, my brother being on the West Coast, and my sister and mother having relocated from New York to LA. My sister went out there for school, and my mom decided it was time to retire, so she sold the house and farm and moved out west at the end of last summer, right after Max was born.
“He’s in my program, we have a couple of classes together, and his name is Joseph.�
“How many times have you been out with him?�
“It’s our second date. Speaking of dates, when was the last time you went on one?�
I grip the steering wheel, hating that we’re back to this. “I don’t know. A while. I’ve been busy.�
“Busy pining over Alaska girl.�
It irritates me that she continues to use that nickname for the woman I spent the better part of last summer with in Alaska. “Don’t call her that.�
“It’s been a year, RJ. Don’t you think—�
I pull into the parking lot of the aquarium. “I’m at the party. I have to go. I’ll talk to you later.� I end the call. I’d like to say this isn’t a conversation we have often, but I’d be lying. Between Stevie and Kyle, someone brings her up at least once a month. Her name was Lainey. Is Lainey. Provided she’s still out there somewhere.
I park next to the massive blue pickup truck that manages to stand out in this parking lot full of silver and black SUVs. It belongs to my teammate Randy Ballistic, who’s currently leaning against the tailgate, thumb typing on his phone.
I cut the engine and get out of the car. Randy falls into step with me, pocketing his phone as we cross the lot. “I’m a little surprised to see you here.� He eyes the gifts tucked under my arm, covered in rocket wrapping paper.
“I haven’t seen most of the guys since playoffs, so I figured it’d be good to stop by.�
He nods in understanding. “Yeah, I tried to get out of it, but Lily insisted we come. She came early to help set up.� Randy and Lily have been together for as long as I’ve been on the team, and while they don’t have kids, they have a dog, which is like training for a baby.
Inside the aquarium, one of my teammates� kids runs by holding a giant inflatable shark, screaming at the top of his lungs. I like kids, and kids generally like me. But I prefer my current role as an uncle to my nephew, Max. I can be the uncle who gives awesome presents, and when Max starts crying, I can pass him back to my brother or sister-in-law and walk away.
“This is like an advertisement for birth control right here,� I mutter as a little redheaded toddler comes wobbling over, face covered in chocolate and a doughnut in his hand. The kid—who definitely belongs to my redheaded Scottish teammate, Lance Romero—reaches for Randy’s leg with his doughnut-filled hand but misses by about six inches, which causes the kid to trip over his own feet.
I swoop in and catch him before he can do a face-plant. He startles and loses his hold on the doughnut, so he bursts into tears.
“Hey, buddy, you’re all right.�
“Mah doughnut!� he screams and lunges for it.
“Five-second rule.� Randy shrugs.
“Quinn! Don’t pick food up off the ground,� Poppy, the kid’s mother and Romero’s wife, calls from across the room.
I crouch down in front of him. “Why don’t we toss that one in the garbage and get you a new one?�
“I want dat one!� he screams in my face, then proceeds to throw himself on the floor and have an epic meltdown.
Romero stalks over. “What’re you two doing to my kid?�
Randy raises both hands in the air. “He tripped and dropped his doughnut.�
Romero looks to me. He’s a nice guy, and I like him, but sometimes he has a short fuse, and I prefer not to be the one to set him off. “I told him we should get a new one. He didn’t like that idea much.�
Romero picks his kid up off the floor and cringes when he sees his face. “Quinn, my man, yer never gonna get the ladies like this. Let’s wash yer face and get ya a new doughnut, aye?�
“Want dat doughnut!� He points to the floor.
Romero steps on the doughnut in question. “What doughnut?�
“Da-eee! Mah doughnut!�
Romero gives us both a look. “I gotta take care of this. After the party wraps up, we’re headin� to the pub. You two in?�
“With or without the kids?� Randy quirks a brow at Quinn, who’s fighting his dad’s hold and smearing his chocolate-covered face all over his dad’s arm.
Romero rolls his eyes. “Without. What the hell would be the point otherwise?� He lifts the kid over his head and makes airplane noises all the way to the bathroom.
“I should’ve brought a flask,� Randy mutters as he fills a plastic cup with soda.
I opt for a bottle of water. We make small talk with our teammates while I keep an eye out for Alex Waters. He went into sportscasting as soon as he retired from the ice. The camera loves him, but he’s got the background and the temperament to coach a team, and I want to find out if the rumors are true that he’s thinking about making the switch in the next couple of years.
“Hey! Rookie! How’s it goin�? Glad you made it back from Alaska in time for the party.� Alex claps me on the back. I have to brace myself so I don’t stumble forward with the impact. Alex is a big guy, and just because he’s not on the ice anymore doesn’t mean he’s lost any of his size.
I accept a man hug and back pat. “Me too. Things are good. Just getting settled in—you know how it goes. Looking forward to preseason training.�
“Team’s looking good this year. You wanna talk strategy at all, just give me a call.�
Before I can segue, his wife appears. “There you are! Can you please take Robbie to the bathroom? Every time we go into a women’s bathroom, he tries to climb up on the sink and pee in there.� Violet gives us a slightly strained smile. “Hey, guys, sorry to interrupt, but getting kicked out of the aquarium for letting my kid use a sink as a toilet isn’t on my to-do list today.�
She points at another child, who I think is one of Miller Butterson’s four kids. I can’t keep their names straight, and I’m pretty sure the one I’m looking at is one of their twins, which makes it even more difficult. “I’m just waiting for that one to pee in one of the fake potted plants. This summer Miller thought the best way to potty train Liam and Lane was to let them wander around with their doodle hanging out so they could pee whenever and wherever. Now Liam keeps trying to take his pants off, and he thinks if it’s a plant, he’s allowed to pee on it.�
“That’s actually awesome,� Randy says with a snort.
Violet grins. “I know, right? Liam has been the best thing to ever happen to me.�
Alex clears his throat, and Violet rolls her eyes. “I mean in terms of offsetting my own humiliating moments. Last weekend we had a barbecue, and Liam got into the greenhouse. Let’s just say there’s a lot of contaminated science experiments in there now.�
“Daddy, can we play yer-nal hockey now?� Robbie tugs on Alex’s sleeve while cupping his junk through his pants with the other hand.
“Sure, kiddo.� He nods to us. “I’ll be back.�
Violet watches them disappear into the men’s bathroom. “Robbie likes to aim for the salt pucks. He thinks it’s like playing hockey with his wiener.�
Randy nods. “Pretty much, actually.�
Five minutes later all the kids go rushing over to the dolphin exhibit. Apparently there’s some kind of guided tour. Since neither of us has kids, Randy and I hang back near the food table. I grab a chicken wrap and another water, wondering how much longer this will go on before we can head over to the pub. I’m guessing—since they haven’t done cake yet—it’s going to be a while.
Screaming comes from the gaggle of kids. “What the hell is going on over there?�
“Your guess is as good as mine. I’m gonna go check it out—maybe you should go have a chat with some of those girls.� He inclines his head in the direction of a group of female aquarium staff who are standing in a gaggle, whispering and gawking. We’re not especially low key today, since we’re all wearing team hats and shirts.
“Uh, I’m good. They’re probably all in high school.� I follow him toward the dolphin exhibit, curious about the shrieks and screams and what sounds a lot like someone crying.
“Everyone stay calm! It’s perfectly natural during mating season for something like this to happen!� The shrill, panicked voice is familiar. Maybe one of the wives?
“Oh shit,� Randy mumbles. He has a little extra height on my six-foot-two frame, so I’m guessing he can see something I can’t.
I make my way around the edge of the group; some of the moms have their kids� faces buried against their stomachs, and one kid is yelling about someone being stabbed.
But the commotion barely registers, because across the sea of screaming, laughing, and crying kids is a very familiar woman wearing an aquarium-issued beige button-down.
Lainey.
Alaska girl.
Coming October 15th
January 15, 2022
Mother Pucker!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 💙💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: ☺️🤬🥵😘🥰
The heroine: Lainey (a.k.a. Alaska Girl) - the youngest of seven kids, she grew up on a farm and was homeschooled. Since then she has gotten 3 PHD’s and is on her way to Alaska to study whales and dolphins. Her mother worries about her and she suffers from anxiety attacks.
The Hero(s): R.J. (a.k.a Rook) - NHL standout and team captain. When he was a rookie, he went through a period where he was a playboy and took full advantage of all the puck bunnies following after his team. He now sees how empty that life is and isn’t looking for anything like that.
The Story: Lainey and R.J. meet on the plane to Alaska. He is in the off season and is going on a yearly fishing trip he took with his father and brother. Though his father died and his brother can’t make it this year so he is taking the trip alone. Lainey literally falls into his lap on the plane and he helps her through some anxiety along the way.
This series was an offshoot of the Pucked Series and I was happy to see Rook’s teammates were the guys we know from that series. This book was a bit more serious than the Pucked books but was just as good. I was glad that though the book was centered around a Lie, it didn’t go over the top like some books.
Sometimes characters in books seem to kind of make a mountain out of a mole hill when it comes to lies. Sure being honest and being able to trust someone is important but everyone lies, and one lie doesn’t necessarily make a dishonest person. Especially when the reasons behind the lie can be easily explained and understood.
The narration was done by Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom and they did a bang up job. I really enjoy Jason Clarke as the Hero and Stella Bloom sounded age appropriate for Lainey. Helena Hunting does very well with the Sports Romance trope and I could read her books every day!
|ŷ||||
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 💙💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: ☺️🤬🥵😘🥰
The heroine: Lainey (a.k.a. Alaska Girl) - the youngest of seven kids, she grew up on a farm and was homeschooled. Since then she has gotten 3 PHD’s and is on her way to Alaska to study whales and dolphins. Her mother worries about her and she suffers from anxiety attacks.
The Hero(s): R.J. (a.k.a Rook) - NHL standout and team captain. When he was a rookie, he went through a period where he was a playboy and took full advantage of all the puck bunnies following after his team. He now sees how empty that life is and isn’t looking for anything like that.
The Story: Lainey and R.J. meet on the plane to Alaska. He is in the off season and is going on a yearly fishing trip he took with his father and brother. Though his father died and his brother can’t make it this year so he is taking the trip alone. Lainey literally falls into his lap on the plane and he helps her through some anxiety along the way.
This series was an offshoot of the Pucked Series and I was happy to see Rook’s teammates were the guys we know from that series. This book was a bit more serious than the Pucked books but was just as good. I was glad that though the book was centered around a Lie, it didn’t go over the top like some books.
Sometimes characters in books seem to kind of make a mountain out of a mole hill when it comes to lies. Sure being honest and being able to trust someone is important but everyone lies, and one lie doesn’t necessarily make a dishonest person. Especially when the reasons behind the lie can be easily explained and understood.
The narration was done by Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom and they did a bang up job. I really enjoy Jason Clarke as the Hero and Stella Bloom sounded age appropriate for Lainey. Helena Hunting does very well with the Sports Romance trope and I could read her books every day!
|ŷ||||
October 20, 2019
I'm not sure how to rate this one because although I didn't hate it, nothing made it truly enjoyable either. I guess I can safely rate 2 stars : It was ok.
And it was. Ok, I mean. Granted that I don't have a successful history record when it comes to this author's books, I decided to give this one a try based on 3 things mentioned in the blurb.
1)Hero is a hockey player, 2)they meet on a plane, 3)second chance at love trope.
In that aspect, I appreciated the aforementioned. The meet cute was, well, cute. Their attraction and the reason for them sticking together during their time on Kodiac island felt pretty contrived on the pages. With the heroine stranded in a dump cottage (sharing her bed with rodents—dead and alive, spiders, a leaky roof, not hot water and dusty covers) I thought the author laid it on pretty thick with the reasons that pushed Lainey to join RJ at his deluxe cabin. Despite the OBVIOUS set up, I thought they were cute together and was looking forward to the angsty part of the story, the part when the hero's lie about being a famous hockey player comes into play.
Except there was no angst to be found. After being separated for about a year and a half, Lainey reappears in RJ's life with a surprise�this is a spoiler but since the author isn't being subtle, you can easily guess what kind of surprise it is � and from here on out, things got so domestic they became quickly boring. I wasn't even interested in reading the epilogue. I skipped it. So that's the level of my investment with this book. I didn't stay for the HEA. Yikes.
It could have been a nice read, there just wasn't any spark brought into a trope that has been done so many times in romance.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too �
And it was. Ok, I mean. Granted that I don't have a successful history record when it comes to this author's books, I decided to give this one a try based on 3 things mentioned in the blurb.
1)Hero is a hockey player, 2)they meet on a plane, 3)second chance at love trope.
In that aspect, I appreciated the aforementioned. The meet cute was, well, cute. Their attraction and the reason for them sticking together during their time on Kodiac island felt pretty contrived on the pages. With the heroine stranded in a dump cottage (sharing her bed with rodents—dead and alive, spiders, a leaky roof, not hot water and dusty covers) I thought the author laid it on pretty thick with the reasons that pushed Lainey to join RJ at his deluxe cabin. Despite the OBVIOUS set up, I thought they were cute together and was looking forward to the angsty part of the story, the part when the hero's lie about being a famous hockey player comes into play.
Except there was no angst to be found. After being separated for about a year and a half, Lainey reappears in RJ's life with a surprise�this is a spoiler but since the author isn't being subtle, you can easily guess what kind of surprise it is � and from here on out, things got so domestic they became quickly boring. I wasn't even interested in reading the epilogue. I skipped it. So that's the level of my investment with this book. I didn't stay for the HEA. Yikes.
It could have been a nice read, there just wasn't any spark brought into a trope that has been done so many times in romance.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too �
March 14, 2021
”I’ve missed the way my heart feels when you’re close to me—so please, be careful with it this time around.�
“My heart is stronger for having been broken and healed by the man who gave me my greatest love. And from here, we get to watch it grow together.�
🔸Synopsis:🔸
RJ (aka Rook) is an NHL captain and on his way to Alaska to do some fishing.
- ”I crave the peace and solitude I find in Alaska and the escape from the circus my life has become.�
As the plane is boarding, a woman literally falls into RJ’s lap. Lainey is a bit quirky but completely adorable and RJ is hooked.
- ”My scarf is caught,� she rasps. “Oh my God. I’m choking myself. I’m so sorry. This is so embarrassing.�
- “Choking to death on an attractive man’s lap really isn’t the way I wanted to go.�
RJ is so happy to finally be with someone who has no clue who he is, so he doesn’t share that little tidbit about his profession with Lainey.
- ”Here on this plane I’m not the NHL forward and team captain with a history of being a player on and off the ice. I’m just a guy, and she’s just a girl.�
When RJ is called back due to a family emergency that spells the end for RJ and Lainey because thanks to fate, circumstances prevent them from connecting once they leave Alaska. Fast forward fourteen months later and a chance meeting in Chicago brings them face to face. As they take a chance on each other again, more than one lie will be uncovered.
- ”I missed you every day for more than a year. I missed the smell of your shampoo, the way you feel in my arms, the sound of your voice, the softness of your skin.�
🔸Overview:🔸
- Trigger warning: none
- Audio: came with my Kindle Unlimited download. I’m not usually a big fan of audio but I thought Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom did a good job
- Setting: Chicago, IL
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: If you’ve read the Pucked series, then some of the couple cameos in this book will be familiar. However, it’s not necessary to read the other series to understand this one
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: athlete, second chance, baby surprise
- Who is the Hero? RJ (aka Rook). Has been playing pro hockey for the last 7 seasons. He’s captain of a Chicago team. His dad died a few years ago, he is close with his mom and siblings.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: notorious playboy, charming, handsome, sexy, skeptical of people’s real motives for wanting to be with him, talented, nice guy, sweet
- Who is the Heroine? Lainey (25). Working on her 3rd Master’s degree. She grew up on a dairy farm, was home schooled, has seven siblings, was a bit sheltered growing up and has some social anxiety
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: curious, honest, babbles when nervous, smart, a breath of fresh air, alluring, loves learning new things, fascinating, says whatever is on her mind, sweet, innocent, a touch naive, fierce, strong, determined
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 19%
- First time they sleep together: 31%
- First time they say I Love You 83%
- steamy? There are descriptive bedroom scenes, but it’s a long span between the first one at 31% and the next one at 83%
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? They spend 14 months apart after their time spent at the cabin in Alaska. Once they are back together again, no time apart
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? 29% Lainey shares something from her past. Lainey finds out what RJ does for a living around 40%. RJ finds out Lainey’s secret around 53%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? A few smiles here and there
- Did I swoon 🥰? Yes!!! RJ is a swoony dad ❤️
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? 4 months later
- Recommend? yes. I really enjoyed this story.
- “I can’t go back in time and change how things happened, but I’m trying to make up for it. So I’m here, taking care of her the best I know how.�
- “Little by little he’s erasing his lie and earning my trust with everything he does.�
📚 The following are my thoughts about this book:
- I thought the circumstances that caused them to lose touch were mostly believable.
- The supporting characters added to the story. Walter......creepy; Lainey’s overprotective mother was kind of awful. (I’m glad Lainey stood up for herself); RJ’s no-filter sister.....loved her; bestie Eden....everyone needs a friend like her.
- I believed RJ really was disappointed that they lost touch and that he truly cared about Lainey.
- RJ as a dad......swoony. 🥰
- “I think if it wasn’t for you, your mom wouldn’t be giving me a second chance. So thank you. I love you, buddy, and I’m hoping I get to say that to you every day for the rest of my life. Even when you’re a teenager and it embarrasses the shit out of you.�
- low on angst. Once they are together, they make it work without a ton of drama. No “I’m not good enough for you� or “I’m not ready to admit my feelings� crap. 👍
- I loved that they made decisions together. Such a refreshing mature couple walking life’s path and dealing with life’s curve balls as a committed couple. Yeah! 👍👍
- ”I want us to do this together. Make decisions together, figure out life and how to parent and how to get our kid to eat green things. I want to love you. I want to get razzed by your brothers at Christmas dinners. If you want to stay here, then the no-trade clause stays in effect—but if you want Seattle, then I lift the clause and we go.�
🔸Quotes🔸
“Thanks. I think you’re beautiful too.� She cringes. “I mean handsome. You’re very nice to look at, with or without a shirt on. When I fell in your lap on the airplane, I remember thinking, At least I fell on someone nice looking.�
“I just wanted someone to see me, authentically see me, and I felt like you did. I never felt more like myself than I did when I was with you.�
“I’m sure it’s the flu and that she’s definitely not pregnant. That’s not . . . that would be impossible.� And that, right there, has to be the most awkward of awkward first conversations with the woman I’m assuming will one day be my mother-in-law.�
“So, that actually happened.� RJ wears an amused grin. “I feel like I can add and cross getting sprayed with breast milk off my bucket list, which is right up there with getting peed on by my son.�
“Lainey comes across as delicate at times, when in reality her innocence and sense of adventure are exactly the things that make her stronger and more resilient than people give her credit for.�
“Bedroom?� I ask. “Floor, couch, kitchen counter. I don’t really care.�
“That show is on when Lainey gives Kody his before-bed booby snacks.�
“My heart is stronger for having been broken and healed by the man who gave me my greatest love. And from here, we get to watch it grow together.�
🔸Synopsis:🔸
RJ (aka Rook) is an NHL captain and on his way to Alaska to do some fishing.
- ”I crave the peace and solitude I find in Alaska and the escape from the circus my life has become.�
As the plane is boarding, a woman literally falls into RJ’s lap. Lainey is a bit quirky but completely adorable and RJ is hooked.
- ”My scarf is caught,� she rasps. “Oh my God. I’m choking myself. I’m so sorry. This is so embarrassing.�
- “Choking to death on an attractive man’s lap really isn’t the way I wanted to go.�
RJ is so happy to finally be with someone who has no clue who he is, so he doesn’t share that little tidbit about his profession with Lainey.
- ”Here on this plane I’m not the NHL forward and team captain with a history of being a player on and off the ice. I’m just a guy, and she’s just a girl.�
When RJ is called back due to a family emergency that spells the end for RJ and Lainey because thanks to fate, circumstances prevent them from connecting once they leave Alaska. Fast forward fourteen months later and a chance meeting in Chicago brings them face to face. As they take a chance on each other again, more than one lie will be uncovered.
- ”I missed you every day for more than a year. I missed the smell of your shampoo, the way you feel in my arms, the sound of your voice, the softness of your skin.�
🔸Overview:🔸
- Trigger warning: none
- Audio: came with my Kindle Unlimited download. I’m not usually a big fan of audio but I thought Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom did a good job
- Setting: Chicago, IL
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: If you’ve read the Pucked series, then some of the couple cameos in this book will be familiar. However, it’s not necessary to read the other series to understand this one
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: athlete, second chance, baby surprise
- Who is the Hero? RJ (aka Rook). Has been playing pro hockey for the last 7 seasons. He’s captain of a Chicago team. His dad died a few years ago, he is close with his mom and siblings.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: notorious playboy, charming, handsome, sexy, skeptical of people’s real motives for wanting to be with him, talented, nice guy, sweet
- Who is the Heroine? Lainey (25). Working on her 3rd Master’s degree. She grew up on a dairy farm, was home schooled, has seven siblings, was a bit sheltered growing up and has some social anxiety
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: curious, honest, babbles when nervous, smart, a breath of fresh air, alluring, loves learning new things, fascinating, says whatever is on her mind, sweet, innocent, a touch naive, fierce, strong, determined
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 19%
- First time they sleep together: 31%
- First time they say I Love You 83%
- steamy? There are descriptive bedroom scenes, but it’s a long span between the first one at 31% and the next one at 83%
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? They spend 14 months apart after their time spent at the cabin in Alaska. Once they are back together again, no time apart
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? 29% Lainey shares something from her past. Lainey finds out what RJ does for a living around 40%. RJ finds out Lainey’s secret around 53%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? A few smiles here and there
- Did I swoon 🥰? Yes!!! RJ is a swoony dad ❤️
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? 4 months later
- Recommend? yes. I really enjoyed this story.
- “I can’t go back in time and change how things happened, but I’m trying to make up for it. So I’m here, taking care of her the best I know how.�
- “Little by little he’s erasing his lie and earning my trust with everything he does.�
📚 The following are my thoughts about this book:
- I thought the circumstances that caused them to lose touch were mostly believable.
- The supporting characters added to the story. Walter......creepy; Lainey’s overprotective mother was kind of awful. (I’m glad Lainey stood up for herself); RJ’s no-filter sister.....loved her; bestie Eden....everyone needs a friend like her.
- I believed RJ really was disappointed that they lost touch and that he truly cared about Lainey.
- RJ as a dad......swoony. 🥰
- “I think if it wasn’t for you, your mom wouldn’t be giving me a second chance. So thank you. I love you, buddy, and I’m hoping I get to say that to you every day for the rest of my life. Even when you’re a teenager and it embarrasses the shit out of you.�
- low on angst. Once they are together, they make it work without a ton of drama. No “I’m not good enough for you� or “I’m not ready to admit my feelings� crap. 👍
- I loved that they made decisions together. Such a refreshing mature couple walking life’s path and dealing with life’s curve balls as a committed couple. Yeah! 👍👍
- ”I want us to do this together. Make decisions together, figure out life and how to parent and how to get our kid to eat green things. I want to love you. I want to get razzed by your brothers at Christmas dinners. If you want to stay here, then the no-trade clause stays in effect—but if you want Seattle, then I lift the clause and we go.�
🔸Quotes🔸
“Thanks. I think you’re beautiful too.� She cringes. “I mean handsome. You’re very nice to look at, with or without a shirt on. When I fell in your lap on the airplane, I remember thinking, At least I fell on someone nice looking.�
“I just wanted someone to see me, authentically see me, and I felt like you did. I never felt more like myself than I did when I was with you.�
“I’m sure it’s the flu and that she’s definitely not pregnant. That’s not . . . that would be impossible.� And that, right there, has to be the most awkward of awkward first conversations with the woman I’m assuming will one day be my mother-in-law.�
“So, that actually happened.� RJ wears an amused grin. “I feel like I can add and cross getting sprayed with breast milk off my bucket list, which is right up there with getting peed on by my son.�
“Lainey comes across as delicate at times, when in reality her innocence and sense of adventure are exactly the things that make her stronger and more resilient than people give her credit for.�
“Bedroom?� I ask. “Floor, couch, kitchen counter. I don’t really care.�
“That show is on when Lainey gives Kody his before-bed booby snacks.�
March 19, 2021
4.5 Omission Stars
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free
Oh, Ms. Hunting... How I love you so. Your writing hits the mark and gives me hours of joy. Your creativity, ability to draw us in, and cause us to care deeply for your characters is your M.O.
So since I finished this in practically one sitting...Work and Real Life got in the way...
I offer up...
A Truth for a Truth...
A famous Hockey Player wishes to be appreciated for just the person he is...not what All the Fame Brings-Truth
When given the opportunity on a trip to Alaska to be a "Normal Regular Guy" with a woman, he doesn't share what a big-time sports star he is...Understandable-Truth
A young Brainy yet Sort of Sheltered woman who has never flown before keeps crossing path with Big, Safe Cuddly Man-Truth
Said Woman has very Overly Concerned Parents and this causes her to try to do things on her own-Truth
After a few justified meetings of these two, a Bubble Romance develops-Truth
A very Hot Romance- Yup, Yes-Hot Truth
There is a Hiccup, though-Truth
But Both were Really Smitten and Sad due to Hiccup-Truth
The Best, One Year Passes and Bam, this Couple is Back in Touch-Truth
The woman is not about to Rollover and Hockey Player has a lot of "Splaining" to do- Serious Truth
So with all of these truths...what more could there be...
An Alpha Male who learns what to do to win his woman back and have her in his life for real.
A woman whom others have thought was frail was in fact extremely strong, capable, and willing to do whatever was necessary to live an independent life.
Lucky Her, Lucky Him and Most of all, Lucky Us... Ms. Hunting came up with this tale. Total, For Real Truth...
Also, Ms. Hunting has another book coming for this series...but I am not interested in it at all- Total, Total LIE!
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)
/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)
/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)
/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss
/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Fame...Songs have been written about it...
People have done Almost Anything for it...
But What if you have it...
And you Never feel like a Normal Person Ever...
What if an Opportunity Happens...
A woman who has No Clue of your Fame...
Literally Falls in Your Lap...
Oh, the Temptation...
To Just Be with Her...
No Fame or Trappings...
Just two people On Fire...
But then Life Happens as it does...
Parting without the Right Words...
He has No Clue how to Reach Her...
These two Cross Paths once again...
A year has passed with each having Secrets of Their Own...
Will they make the Sacrifice and Trade...
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)- October 15th, 2019
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free
Oh, Ms. Hunting... How I love you so. Your writing hits the mark and gives me hours of joy. Your creativity, ability to draw us in, and cause us to care deeply for your characters is your M.O.
So since I finished this in practically one sitting...Work and Real Life got in the way...
I offer up...
A Truth for a Truth...
A famous Hockey Player wishes to be appreciated for just the person he is...not what All the Fame Brings-Truth
When given the opportunity on a trip to Alaska to be a "Normal Regular Guy" with a woman, he doesn't share what a big-time sports star he is...Understandable-Truth
A young Brainy yet Sort of Sheltered woman who has never flown before keeps crossing path with Big, Safe Cuddly Man-Truth
Said Woman has very Overly Concerned Parents and this causes her to try to do things on her own-Truth
After a few justified meetings of these two, a Bubble Romance develops-Truth
A very Hot Romance- Yup, Yes-Hot Truth
There is a Hiccup, though-Truth
But Both were Really Smitten and Sad due to Hiccup-Truth
The Best, One Year Passes and Bam, this Couple is Back in Touch-Truth
The woman is not about to Rollover and Hockey Player has a lot of "Splaining" to do- Serious Truth
So with all of these truths...what more could there be...
An Alpha Male who learns what to do to win his woman back and have her in his life for real.
A woman whom others have thought was frail was in fact extremely strong, capable, and willing to do whatever was necessary to live an independent life.
Lucky Her, Lucky Him and Most of all, Lucky Us... Ms. Hunting came up with this tale. Total, For Real Truth...
Also, Ms. Hunting has another book coming for this series...but I am not interested in it at all- Total, Total LIE!
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)
/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)
/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)
/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss
/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Fame...Songs have been written about it...
People have done Almost Anything for it...
But What if you have it...
And you Never feel like a Normal Person Ever...
What if an Opportunity Happens...
A woman who has No Clue of your Fame...
Literally Falls in Your Lap...
Oh, the Temptation...
To Just Be with Her...
No Fame or Trappings...
Just two people On Fire...
But then Life Happens as it does...
Parting without the Right Words...
He has No Clue how to Reach Her...
These two Cross Paths once again...
A year has passed with each having Secrets of Their Own...
Will they make the Sacrifice and Trade...
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)- October 15th, 2019
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
May 8, 2021
DNF as soon as the puck bunny talk started.
Seriously I'm so over the misogyny these "old" authors are so casually portraying in their books.
And by "old" I mean authors that have been in the industry for a while like Helena Hunting, L. J. Shen, Cora Reilly etc. They all do this thing in their books where in order to uplift the heroine they bring other women down, and I am so fucking over it.
It's 2021, they need to get with the times. One of the biggest reasons why I hated the Pucked series by the same author was because of this. I get it, bunny talk might be a thing with hockey players, and I'm not saying to eliminate it completely, but for God's sake I don't need to be reminded of it in every other chapter.
Not only that, but this felt more like I was reading a person's freaking daily routine rather than a book. The writing style was so boring, I didn't feel a thing reading this.
I don't think I'm gonna read any more books by this author. Every book I've read by her so far has been a fail.
Seriously I'm so over the misogyny these "old" authors are so casually portraying in their books.
And by "old" I mean authors that have been in the industry for a while like Helena Hunting, L. J. Shen, Cora Reilly etc. They all do this thing in their books where in order to uplift the heroine they bring other women down, and I am so fucking over it.
It's 2021, they need to get with the times. One of the biggest reasons why I hated the Pucked series by the same author was because of this. I get it, bunny talk might be a thing with hockey players, and I'm not saying to eliminate it completely, but for God's sake I don't need to be reminded of it in every other chapter.
Not only that, but this felt more like I was reading a person's freaking daily routine rather than a book. The writing style was so boring, I didn't feel a thing reading this.
I don't think I'm gonna read any more books by this author. Every book I've read by her so far has been a fail.
February 15, 2022
so sweet , I think I have diabetes
February 7, 2020
Helena you have done it again. I loved this amazing book. Rook the captain of his hockey team and lainey. The shy frightened woman. She has a past she wants to forget. He wants to keep his fame a secret.. He meets lainey on a plane headed to Alaska.watch the sparks fly. Also remember feisty Violet and Alex from helena's series pucked well there back with the others.
October 24, 2019
I always get a little tingle when I dive back into these stories featuring the hottest hockey players around!
Rook was
spectacular
and I didn't expect any less from Helena Hunting. Ever since I started reading the Pucked series, I knew I'd be in for a heck of a lot more men to fall in love with and I am
soooo
in love with Rook! Don't get it twisted though... Lance Romero is
still freaking MINE!!
Okay, so back to the oh so perfect Rook. He was charming, easy going, smart, funny, thoughtful, sensitive, and he had an enormous heart. From the start I decided that he deserved all that was good in the world and I sat back to enjoy his journey to happily ever after. And at first, I really liked Lainey. She was sweet and shy, reserved and unique, quirky and awkward and vulnerable. There's something about the vulnerability of a character that really grabs me and I was gripped. But then the secrets came and honestly, hers was the freaking WORST.
I enjoyed the heck out of this story. For Rook alone, I'd read this book time and time again. I found something magical within this author's words and I'd love to lose myself in them once more. If you love sweet romance stories full of heart and second chances, you'll be all in with this one!
Find the full review
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Okay, so back to the oh so perfect Rook. He was charming, easy going, smart, funny, thoughtful, sensitive, and he had an enormous heart. From the start I decided that he deserved all that was good in the world and I sat back to enjoy his journey to happily ever after. And at first, I really liked Lainey. She was sweet and shy, reserved and unique, quirky and awkward and vulnerable. There's something about the vulnerability of a character that really grabs me and I was gripped. But then the secrets came and honestly, hers was the freaking WORST.
My skin burns.
My heart stutters.
I should tell him my own truth.
But for now we’re tied: a lie for a lie.
I enjoyed the heck out of this story. For Rook alone, I'd read this book time and time again. I found something magical within this author's words and I'd love to lose myself in them once more. If you love sweet romance stories full of heart and second chances, you'll be all in with this one!
Find the full review
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Shelved as 'maybe-not-sure-help'
October 19, 2019Update: 2 reviewers told me it was unsafe. Two told me they don't know. Two told me they think he was celibate. I have never been more confused. Anyway, I am going to give this a try then and find out. I have asked the author too, really hope she replies!
original thoughts: Okay for my GR friends who needed gang safety information-
h has definitely been celibate.
This is what H says "I have to remind myself that while I’ve been living the single, mostly celibate life, she’s been raising a baby alone." So while he doesn't sleep around he seems like he must have have had some sex. I mean it was only ONE year. Like apparently he is been really hung up on her yet he couldn't keep it in his pants for just a year. Why do authors keep doing this, this always making the man sleep with OWs regardless of how short or long the separation was for but making the women celibate even for 10-16 years sometimes.
original thoughts: Okay for my GR friends who needed gang safety information-
h has definitely been celibate.
This is what H says "I have to remind myself that while I’ve been living the single, mostly celibate life, she’s been raising a baby alone." So while he doesn't sleep around he seems like he must have have had some sex. I mean it was only ONE year. Like apparently he is been really hung up on her yet he couldn't keep it in his pants for just a year. Why do authors keep doing this, this always making the man sleep with OWs regardless of how short or long the separation was for but making the women celibate even for 10-16 years sometimes.
January 25, 2023
This was a cute and fun second chance romance! Lainey and RJ meet in Alaska and end up falling fast and hard for each other. RJ, though, doesn't tell Lainey that he's really a famous hockey player. He has a family emergency where he has to leave in the middle of the night and the two have no way of contacting each other again. A year later, Lainey is working at an aquarium and RJ runs into the girl he hasn't been able to forget. But Lainey has a secret that will turn his world upside down. I really liked the connect Lainey and RJ had and how hard RJ fell for her. He was determined to be there for her and make up for lying to her when they first met. I do think this was just an average, fun romance, but it didn't really give me more than that like Little Lies did, which I read right before this one. I would have loved more angst, but if you don't need any angst, definitely check out this second chance hockey romance!
October 19, 2019
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
4 SWEET CROWNS
How does she do it every single time??? My freaking heart. Rook owns my heart! I laughed. I am so amped up for a new series, a new world, and new hockey players to fall in love with.
Rook! I have loved his character since he was the newest rookie in the beloved Pucked series, so when I found out he was book one in the spin off series, I couldn't have been more excited. And let me tell you, Rook did not disappoint in any single way. He was charming, romantic, funny. Just perfect. There are minor slip ups for sure, but his heart is always in the right place.
Lainey is very much your typical Helena heroine - a bit quirky and fun. I felt like, although she is the typical Hunting heroine, she still had an authenticity to her. I believed her struggles and understood motivationsbehind things. I really liked her character and intelligence. Let's just say that I am a sucker for a smart heroine.
The plot overall was great. I loved seeing them meet and fall in love. I felt like the initial fallout was believable, but there wasn't a substantial conflict later for me. When they came back together, they came back seemlessly, really. Yes, there are tiny bumps, but Rooks determination and their attraction to each other trumped them all. And while this is very real life, I prefer a bit more angst and conflict to my romances.
That being said, Helena did a fantastic job integrating the two worlds. Readers get to see their beloved Pucked heroes and heroines while simultaneously creating a new world for us to love. I am so very excited for it all.
A Lie for a Lie exemplifies everything readers love about a Helena Hunting book - charm, romance, and hilarity. I cannot wait to see what more this series has in store for us.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
4 SWEET CROWNS
How does she do it every single time??? My freaking heart. Rook owns my heart! I laughed. I am so amped up for a new series, a new world, and new hockey players to fall in love with.
Rook! I have loved his character since he was the newest rookie in the beloved Pucked series, so when I found out he was book one in the spin off series, I couldn't have been more excited. And let me tell you, Rook did not disappoint in any single way. He was charming, romantic, funny. Just perfect. There are minor slip ups for sure, but his heart is always in the right place.
Lainey is very much your typical Helena heroine - a bit quirky and fun. I felt like, although she is the typical Hunting heroine, she still had an authenticity to her. I believed her struggles and understood motivationsbehind things. I really liked her character and intelligence. Let's just say that I am a sucker for a smart heroine.
The plot overall was great. I loved seeing them meet and fall in love. I felt like the initial fallout was believable, but there wasn't a substantial conflict later for me. When they came back together, they came back seemlessly, really. Yes, there are tiny bumps, but Rooks determination and their attraction to each other trumped them all. And while this is very real life, I prefer a bit more angst and conflict to my romances.
That being said, Helena did a fantastic job integrating the two worlds. Readers get to see their beloved Pucked heroes and heroines while simultaneously creating a new world for us to love. I am so very excited for it all.
A Lie for a Lie exemplifies everything readers love about a Helena Hunting book - charm, romance, and hilarity. I cannot wait to see what more this series has in store for us.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2019
RJ/Rook was supposed to go fishing in Alaska with his brother. He needs these few weeks every year to get away from being a famous hockey player in Chicago.
But this year his brother needs to stay at home with his pregnant wife.
But RJ is still going. And he's not alone for long. On the flight he meets Lainey. She's so refreshingly adorable and so not a hockey fan. He loves that she doesn't know him. And he also loves that she needs his help surviving in the Alaskan wilderness.
But he's also not telling her his real name and profession ...
Let the fun times begin...
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH LAINEY & RJ?
WILL THERE BE A HAPPILY EVER AFTER?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! �
══════════════════
ADORABLE!
Another adorable and funny and sparky and sexy Helena Hunting romance!
I just adored RJ and Lainey!
I also loved the sexy Alaska cabin moments.�
I just hated that he didn't tell her the truth. He didn't really lie lie, but he omitted. It's just so unnecessary. It should've been written differently. There's NO logical reason for him to lie. We immediately know Lainey is a sweet and genuine person and that she has NO idea about any kind of sport! So I really hated that he didn't tell her. BUT - without that we wouldn't have the unnecessary drama that follows once they meet again in Chicago a year later :/
And then the other 'secret' - I mean! If you don't already know what that 'secret' is once you're done reading the blurb, then I can't help you! It's way too obvious and Lainey always uses weird excuses to not let the reader know what that secret is until we finally find out about the 'surprise' around the middle of the book! Pfff.
Ugh, how I hate unnecessary drama. But romance novels seem to need those dramas. No idea why. With a bit of originality the story would be so much more beautiful.
Not that this wasn't a sweet romance, but it's just all so predictable! I hated that a bit. But I loved ALL the other things in this book. The people and animals and the stars from previous book.
It was a really adorable love story.... that would've been more amazing with a bit more originality!
BUT - I loved it. Nuff Said. Can't wait to read the second book. I LOVE the cover guy of the second book. The guy on this one is a bit too crooked for my tastes. Like he went too many rounds in the boxing ring with his nose :/ Poor guy.
A LIE FOR A LIE was an adorable & funny & sexy wilderness/hockey/not-so-secret-secret romace! Run to your nearest amazon for your own RJ - this one is MINE!!!!
� �
October 15, 2019
5 'Safety cuddles' Stars!
ARC provided by the the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review..
Can any of you please kick me for waiting this much to read something by Helena Hunting again? I’ve never finished her Pucked series and after how much I enjoyed this upcoming release, I think I need to get right on that because this heartwarming sports romance was so much more than what I expected. I adored every single second of reading it, from start to finish, and I loved RJ and Lainey so much.
A Lie for a Lie is Helena’s first installment in her new series called All In. It’s focused on hockey and, from what I’ve read, it can be considered a spin-off of Helena’s famous Pucked series. It’s the love story between Rookie ‘RJ� Bowman, the captain of Chicago's NHL team, and Lainey Carver, the beautiful nerdy woman he meets in a trip to Alaska. The hit it off pretty fast and they live a summer that will change their lives forever. A year later, fate puts them back together but there are some white lies between them that could be the end of their relationship. Will they trust and fall in love all over again?
I think about how I could get used to this—not just the sex, but her. And I wish I’d started this with the truth instead of a lie, because it’s too late to take it back�
I love a good sports romance and I know Helena Hunting is an expert on that matter. Her Pucked series is highly loved by romance book readers and now I am sure the fans will also enjoy this new one. I got so much into the story, I loved the main couple and their chemistry, I loved how everything developed and the unexpected twists that got quite entertaining and emotional. I loved the secondary characters. I simply loved every single thing about A Lie for a Lie. Literally I could not stop reading!
“I just wanted someone to see me, authentically see me, and I felt like you did. I never felt more like myself than I did when I was with you.�
Of course, what I enjoyed the most was the relationship between RJ and Lainey. The instant connection, the quirky and funny scenes, the spark, the sexual tension, the chemistry and the feelings. And the little surprise! ;) Everything was on point for me. And I am sure fans of the Pucked series will enjoy how Helena has linked this new series to those beloved books. And I am sure you’ll also fall in love with RJ, Lainey and the new crew because they are just as amazing: hilarious, smart, sexy and nerdy!
She tastes the same, feels the same—but better. She feels like mine and home and love.
Therefore, my rating for A Lie for a Lie is 5 STARS because it sure made me fall in love all over again with Helena Hunting’s writing and characters. RJ and Lainey were so sweet and just beautiful together and I loved their chemistry and the interactions with the rest of the characters. After reading this, it sure made me want to go back to the Pucked series, meet those people better and finish the books I haven’t read. And I definitely cannot wait to experience more of this new series too!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC provided by the the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review..
Can any of you please kick me for waiting this much to read something by Helena Hunting again? I’ve never finished her Pucked series and after how much I enjoyed this upcoming release, I think I need to get right on that because this heartwarming sports romance was so much more than what I expected. I adored every single second of reading it, from start to finish, and I loved RJ and Lainey so much.
A Lie for a Lie is Helena’s first installment in her new series called All In. It’s focused on hockey and, from what I’ve read, it can be considered a spin-off of Helena’s famous Pucked series. It’s the love story between Rookie ‘RJ� Bowman, the captain of Chicago's NHL team, and Lainey Carver, the beautiful nerdy woman he meets in a trip to Alaska. The hit it off pretty fast and they live a summer that will change their lives forever. A year later, fate puts them back together but there are some white lies between them that could be the end of their relationship. Will they trust and fall in love all over again?
I think about how I could get used to this—not just the sex, but her. And I wish I’d started this with the truth instead of a lie, because it’s too late to take it back�
I love a good sports romance and I know Helena Hunting is an expert on that matter. Her Pucked series is highly loved by romance book readers and now I am sure the fans will also enjoy this new one. I got so much into the story, I loved the main couple and their chemistry, I loved how everything developed and the unexpected twists that got quite entertaining and emotional. I loved the secondary characters. I simply loved every single thing about A Lie for a Lie. Literally I could not stop reading!
“I just wanted someone to see me, authentically see me, and I felt like you did. I never felt more like myself than I did when I was with you.�
Of course, what I enjoyed the most was the relationship between RJ and Lainey. The instant connection, the quirky and funny scenes, the spark, the sexual tension, the chemistry and the feelings. And the little surprise! ;) Everything was on point for me. And I am sure fans of the Pucked series will enjoy how Helena has linked this new series to those beloved books. And I am sure you’ll also fall in love with RJ, Lainey and the new crew because they are just as amazing: hilarious, smart, sexy and nerdy!
She tastes the same, feels the same—but better. She feels like mine and home and love.
Therefore, my rating for A Lie for a Lie is 5 STARS because it sure made me fall in love all over again with Helena Hunting’s writing and characters. RJ and Lainey were so sweet and just beautiful together and I loved their chemistry and the interactions with the rest of the characters. After reading this, it sure made me want to go back to the Pucked series, meet those people better and finish the books I haven’t read. And I definitely cannot wait to experience more of this new series too!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
October 14, 2019
<3 4 STARS <3
I enjoyed A Lie For A Lie and I cannot wait to read more books in this new series!This is another fun,sweet and sexy read!It's fast paced and left me breathless!I loved the characters and their connection is sexy and intense!
Rook met Lainey a year ago when they were both in Alaska at the same time. They spent all the summer together but fate pull them apart until they see each other again a year later!I aodred Rook (RJ) and Lainey, and I loved their relationship!
If you need a fun and sexy read, this is for you!
I enjoyed A Lie For A Lie and I cannot wait to read more books in this new series!This is another fun,sweet and sexy read!It's fast paced and left me breathless!I loved the characters and their connection is sexy and intense!
Rook met Lainey a year ago when they were both in Alaska at the same time. They spent all the summer together but fate pull them apart until they see each other again a year later!I aodred Rook (RJ) and Lainey, and I loved their relationship!
If you need a fun and sexy read, this is for you!
February 7, 2020
I loved it!! This was so adorable, sweet, and romantic. Surprise baby, NHL hockey player, a sort of second chance romance. The audio narration was amazing as well!
January 16, 2020
I can just die a happy woman� Once I finish reading the new spinoff series by Helena Hunting. A Lie for a Lie is book #1 of her All In hockey romance series which takes place in the same universe as her Pucked series. Yes! We get to read a bit more of her Chicago NHL stars like Alex Waters.
Rook (RJ) Bowman wanted a break from the pressure of being captain of his NHL team and going to Kodiak Island in Alaska to get away from it all is just what the doctor ordered. He never expected a sweet, nerdy and gorgeous woman to literally fall on his lap on the way there. The fact that Lainey doesn’t know who he is only makes him feel more at ease and spending the following weeks with her are filled with delicious sexy times, laughs and happiness.
Unforeseen circumstances force him to cut their time together short and RJ has leave without a way to contact her. But after a year, serendipity puts them on the same path once again, only this time Rook is forced to come clean regarding his job while Lainey has a big secret of her own. Can they look past the lies and see person they fell in love with during their bliss filled vacation together?
Helena Hunting has skillfully written a story with a wonderful blend of sexiness, delicious sweetness and a whole lot of fun. Even though his past when it comes to women cast a philanderer shadow on RJ, we get to meet his true, caring, sweet and thoughtful self during his time with Lainey in Alaska. And once he gets over the shock of seeing her again and the very unexpected news she needs to share with him, he continues to display all his best qualities that made me fall for him along with Lainey.
Although their relationship was based on a lie, it developed in a truly deep and heartfelt way which had me rooting for them from start to finish. Together they made a supremely cute couple. And speaking of couple, we get to see a bunch of the fun and crazy couples from the Pucked series who added a layer of laughs and smiles that made this story absolutely enjoyable.
A Lie for A Lie is a standalone hockey romance in the All In series by Helena Hunting. Told from both points of view, with a happy ending.
Amazon ->
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
* *
Rook (RJ) Bowman wanted a break from the pressure of being captain of his NHL team and going to Kodiak Island in Alaska to get away from it all is just what the doctor ordered. He never expected a sweet, nerdy and gorgeous woman to literally fall on his lap on the way there. The fact that Lainey doesn’t know who he is only makes him feel more at ease and spending the following weeks with her are filled with delicious sexy times, laughs and happiness.
Unforeseen circumstances force him to cut their time together short and RJ has leave without a way to contact her. But after a year, serendipity puts them on the same path once again, only this time Rook is forced to come clean regarding his job while Lainey has a big secret of her own. Can they look past the lies and see person they fell in love with during their bliss filled vacation together?
Helena Hunting has skillfully written a story with a wonderful blend of sexiness, delicious sweetness and a whole lot of fun. Even though his past when it comes to women cast a philanderer shadow on RJ, we get to meet his true, caring, sweet and thoughtful self during his time with Lainey in Alaska. And once he gets over the shock of seeing her again and the very unexpected news she needs to share with him, he continues to display all his best qualities that made me fall for him along with Lainey.
Although their relationship was based on a lie, it developed in a truly deep and heartfelt way which had me rooting for them from start to finish. Together they made a supremely cute couple. And speaking of couple, we get to see a bunch of the fun and crazy couples from the Pucked series who added a layer of laughs and smiles that made this story absolutely enjoyable.
A Lie for A Lie is a standalone hockey romance in the All In series by Helena Hunting. Told from both points of view, with a happy ending.
Amazon ->
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
* *
August 23, 2020
I finished this over a week ago and put off reviewing. Which means I've lost a lot of details and I hate that. Okay, that's not entirely true, as I think a lot of what's holding me back is that it's a complicated plot that works much better than it should have but trying to discuss it wearies me. So I'm not gonna bother with the plot at all and that'll make this short(ish).
I really liked this couple and I particularly liked them together. Rook is a fantastic guy and my favorite type. He's one of those naturally supportive, kind guys who cares about those in his orbit. Indeed, it's pretty clear that's why he's done with his playboy past as he really needs a relationship with better foundations where he can turn his caring loose without fear of exploitation. So attaching so strongly to Lainey was fantastic, particularly as he does so in service to her strengths (i.e. without overriding, inhibiting, or countering her). I even loved that she had proved that her attachment wasn't one of need but that she found she could rely on him and find comfort there.
Also, "comfort cuddles" totally needs to be a thing.
There's enough angst and Lainey throws some unneeded chaff in the way that I can't get behind a full five stars. But it's a solid four and a great start to a new, though spin-off (from the author's Pucked series) series.
A note about Steamy: While they have a long month of sexcapades, not a lot of it hits the page. I don't remember an exact count but it was the middle of my steam tolerance and Hunting does a fantastic job picking when to go there and when not to.
I really liked this couple and I particularly liked them together. Rook is a fantastic guy and my favorite type. He's one of those naturally supportive, kind guys who cares about those in his orbit. Indeed, it's pretty clear that's why he's done with his playboy past as he really needs a relationship with better foundations where he can turn his caring loose without fear of exploitation. So attaching so strongly to Lainey was fantastic, particularly as he does so in service to her strengths (i.e. without overriding, inhibiting, or countering her). I even loved that she had proved that her attachment wasn't one of need but that she found she could rely on him and find comfort there.
Also, "comfort cuddles" totally needs to be a thing.
There's enough angst and Lainey throws some unneeded chaff in the way that I can't get behind a full five stars. But it's a solid four and a great start to a new, though spin-off (from the author's Pucked series) series.
A note about Steamy: While they have a long month of sexcapades, not a lot of it hits the page. I don't remember an exact count but it was the middle of my steam tolerance and Hunting does a fantastic job picking when to go there and when not to.
October 16, 2019
Fabulous Read!!!
So excited for this series!!!
I have been MIA lately, but back and trying to get caught up 🤗
So excited for this series!!!
I have been MIA lately, but back and trying to get caught up 🤗
August 2, 2022
Low angst with some lying twists
It’s been a while since I read a Helena Hunting book, and I really enjoyed this one. I wanted to read it because I looooved Little Lies and the parents of the MCs of Little Lies are Alex and Violent from Pucked (Lavender’s parents) and these two, Rook/RJ and Lainey (Kody’s parents).
RJ/Rook, NHL team captain, goes away to Alaska every summer. Normally, he would go with his dad (RIP) and his brother, but his brother’s wife’s pregnancy is complicated, and his brother feels the need to stay with her instead. RJ understands, so he goes anyway. He needs to get away from the fame, drama and puck bunnies that have not only given him STDs but fake pregnancy scares.
Enter awkward, aerophobic Lainey (25), who not only falls onto him on the first plane they ride on, but ends up puking when they get on their next flight, coincidentally, while sitting next to each other. They get to know each other and he volunteers to drive her to her rental space.
As they get to know each other, he doesn’t tell her what he really does for a living. Because she doesn’t recognize him or watch sports, he decides to pretend his day job is something else� meanwhile, she’s working on her third thesis and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.
Their connection begins to sizzle the more they get to know each other, which is fine with RJ since he’s been celibate for a while now. He’s been a manhooooar before and he knows the ramifications of what it means. He’s not about that life anymore, thank goodness 👏🏻.
We get some steamy times. Some were FTB ish or just told that it happened. But the ones we get are decent enough🔥🔥🔥. The ones that mattered were the longer ones 😉. I wouldn’t have minded if they were more detailed (aka raunchy 🤣), but I felt satiated lol. (Not satisfied)
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
I did NOT see the secret baby/pregnancy coming 😅🤣. Honestly, I was at the gym, minding my business, when I heard Lainey tell RJ she had a baby� and ITS HIS🤯😱. THE GASP that came out of me was EMBARRASSING 🤣🫣. I had to pretend I was coughing 😅😂. I was shocked, but also wanted to forgo stretching to keep reading 😅👀.
I liked that there wasn’t too much angst. It could’ve had some in it to make it a more profound read, but I still enjoyed it a lot. Basically, RJ and Lainey need to navigate their lives now that they found each other again, including what it’s like to live a life of someone that’s famous.
I also loved that we get some JP ness out of RJ. Good. Gotta keep him on his toes 💁🏻♀�. Lainey will have to deal with women wanting her man, he needs to know what it’s like to be in her shoes lol 💅.
I didn’t like that RJ didn’t try harder to find Lainey😒😑. If he had tried harder, I’d give this more points. Also. I don’t like that his “mostly celibate� situation isn’t addressed. Actually, I hated it lol. Meanwhile, she’s busy being a SINGLE MOM! Sigh 😒
Overall, I enjoyed it a lot.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-agoraphobia/aero phobia
-college shooting recounted
-death of parent remembered
-pregnancy complication
-H was a previous manwhore but has been celibate before meeting h
-separation of about a year/h was casually seeing OM/H was single mostly celibate during the separation (whatever the hell that means)
BUUUUT� when the book begins, his sister makes fun of him for pining for the h and never dating.
It’s been a while since I read a Helena Hunting book, and I really enjoyed this one. I wanted to read it because I looooved Little Lies and the parents of the MCs of Little Lies are Alex and Violent from Pucked (Lavender’s parents) and these two, Rook/RJ and Lainey (Kody’s parents).
RJ/Rook, NHL team captain, goes away to Alaska every summer. Normally, he would go with his dad (RIP) and his brother, but his brother’s wife’s pregnancy is complicated, and his brother feels the need to stay with her instead. RJ understands, so he goes anyway. He needs to get away from the fame, drama and puck bunnies that have not only given him STDs but fake pregnancy scares.
Enter awkward, aerophobic Lainey (25), who not only falls onto him on the first plane they ride on, but ends up puking when they get on their next flight, coincidentally, while sitting next to each other. They get to know each other and he volunteers to drive her to her rental space.
As they get to know each other, he doesn’t tell her what he really does for a living. Because she doesn’t recognize him or watch sports, he decides to pretend his day job is something else� meanwhile, she’s working on her third thesis and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.
Their connection begins to sizzle the more they get to know each other, which is fine with RJ since he’s been celibate for a while now. He’s been a manhooooar before and he knows the ramifications of what it means. He’s not about that life anymore, thank goodness 👏🏻.
We get some steamy times. Some were FTB ish or just told that it happened. But the ones we get are decent enough🔥🔥🔥. The ones that mattered were the longer ones 😉. I wouldn’t have minded if they were more detailed (aka raunchy 🤣), but I felt satiated lol. (Not satisfied)
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
I did NOT see the secret baby/pregnancy coming 😅🤣. Honestly, I was at the gym, minding my business, when I heard Lainey tell RJ she had a baby� and ITS HIS🤯😱. THE GASP that came out of me was EMBARRASSING 🤣🫣. I had to pretend I was coughing 😅😂. I was shocked, but also wanted to forgo stretching to keep reading 😅👀.
I liked that there wasn’t too much angst. It could’ve had some in it to make it a more profound read, but I still enjoyed it a lot. Basically, RJ and Lainey need to navigate their lives now that they found each other again, including what it’s like to live a life of someone that’s famous.
I also loved that we get some JP ness out of RJ. Good. Gotta keep him on his toes 💁🏻♀�. Lainey will have to deal with women wanting her man, he needs to know what it’s like to be in her shoes lol 💅.
I didn’t like that RJ didn’t try harder to find Lainey😒😑. If he had tried harder, I’d give this more points. Also. I don’t like that his “mostly celibate� situation isn’t addressed. Actually, I hated it lol. Meanwhile, she’s busy being a SINGLE MOM! Sigh 😒
Overall, I enjoyed it a lot.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-agoraphobia/aero phobia
-college shooting recounted
-death of parent remembered
-pregnancy complication
-H was a previous manwhore but has been celibate before meeting h
-separation of about a year/h was casually seeing OM/H was single mostly celibate during the separation (whatever the hell that means)
BUUUUT� when the book begins, his sister makes fun of him for pining for the h and never dating.
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