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D.C. Eagles Hockey #3
Betrothal or Breakaway
My best friend—and unrequited love—has a hole in her heart. Literally and figuratively.
First, Amber’s fiancé left her when she told him she was pregnant, and then her daughter's birth left her with complications from a heart defect she didn’t realize she had.
I’m devastated.
Of course I offer to pay for her surgery, but Amber (stubborn woman that she is) insists on wanting to pay me back, which I don't understand. As captain of an NHL team, I have plenty of spare cash, and I’m more than happy to help. I want to help.
So I come up with a plan.
I’ll marry Amber, my health insurance will cover her surgery, I’ll help with the baby, and the gold band on my finger will get my parents—who seem to think I'm incapable of love—off my back.
It's a win-win for both of us.
Two years of platonically wedded bliss before we amicably go our separate ways, and remain best friends, as always.
Only, how am I supposed to let Amber go when I’m not only in love with her, but also with her baby girl… who now feels like my own.
And I might have to let her go sooner than I ever wanted to.
Betrothal or Breakaway is a dual POV, fade-to-black romance with mild langauge. This book is light-hearted, but contains themes of minor heart surgery, broken engagement, and difficult parental relationships.
First, Amber’s fiancé left her when she told him she was pregnant, and then her daughter's birth left her with complications from a heart defect she didn’t realize she had.
I’m devastated.
Of course I offer to pay for her surgery, but Amber (stubborn woman that she is) insists on wanting to pay me back, which I don't understand. As captain of an NHL team, I have plenty of spare cash, and I’m more than happy to help. I want to help.
So I come up with a plan.
I’ll marry Amber, my health insurance will cover her surgery, I’ll help with the baby, and the gold band on my finger will get my parents—who seem to think I'm incapable of love—off my back.
It's a win-win for both of us.
Two years of platonically wedded bliss before we amicably go our separate ways, and remain best friends, as always.
Only, how am I supposed to let Amber go when I’m not only in love with her, but also with her baby girl… who now feels like my own.
And I might have to let her go sooner than I ever wanted to.
Betrothal or Breakaway is a dual POV, fade-to-black romance with mild langauge. This book is light-hearted, but contains themes of minor heart surgery, broken engagement, and difficult parental relationships.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2024
About the author
Leah Brunner
10 books1,012 followersLeah Brunner is an Amazon top 50 best selling author of fun and flirty romance!
Since Leah spends most of her time daydreaming, she decided to make a career out of it! She loves writing realistic, relatable characters who will make you laugh (and possibly cry).
Although she’s a Kansas girl at heart, Leah is a proud Air Force spouse and currently lives in Ohio with her husband and three children.
(Leah is rep'd by Eva Scalzo at Speilburg Literary)
You can find Leah on Instagram @leah.brunner.writes. Or join her Facebook reader group: Leah’s Lit Lovers
Since Leah spends most of her time daydreaming, she decided to make a career out of it! She loves writing realistic, relatable characters who will make you laugh (and possibly cry).
Although she’s a Kansas girl at heart, Leah is a proud Air Force spouse and currently lives in Ohio with her husband and three children.
(Leah is rep'd by Eva Scalzo at Speilburg Literary)
You can find Leah on Instagram @leah.brunner.writes. Or join her Facebook reader group: Leah’s Lit Lovers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 643 reviews
April 21, 2024
4 stars
this was the perfect light read i needed to counterbalance my current hectic life 🥺❤️🩹
✨virgin hero
✨single mom
✨aspergers rep
✨nerdy hockey player
✨golden retriever hero
✨childhood bestfriends
✨marriage of convenience
this was the perfect light read i needed to counterbalance my current hectic life 🥺❤️🩹
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
April 6, 2024DNF @ 50%
Well, I tried, but I don't think I'm the audience for this. Friends-to-lovers is usually a miss for me, though there are rare times that it was genuinely a hit. I can't remember a book at the moment, but I'm sure there are some on my read shelf. 😅
Anyway, I just can't wrap my head around the unrequited love, and it's my fault for not reading the blurb. It's a me problem, obviously; that's why I said I'm not the right reader for this book.
The thing is, Ford (34) and Amber (34) have been childhood friends since they were 8, and he said he has been in love with her for a very long time. Unfortunately, Amber never felt that way for him; she said she knew he's attractive but never felt any "attraction" to Ford. But of course, she's slowly having a 180 about him, and here's her thought about it:
"For years, I think the camaraderie we felt toward each other, both being underdogs, made me unable to see him as anything but a friend. But now? I just see a very handsome, very wonderful man. A man who has always taken care of me and made me happy. If only I’d seen it sooner..."
Am I supposed to swoon over this realization and say, I guess it's better late than never??? Why did it take her 26 years of friendship to see the best thing in her life? Is she that dense about him and his efforts? Now that she's at rock bottom, all of a sudden she sees him somehow differently? What gives?
I don't think she's taking advantage of their friendship because Ford is more than willing to do things for her. He has the means, and helping the woman he loves is his priority, so why not? But I feel like if this baby didn't come along, if her engagement didn't fall through, and if she didn't find a heart failure that she couldn't afford the surgery for, this turnaround will never happen.
Not once in her life has she looked at him as a man, yet the sudden proximity, her hormones that are all over the place, and Ford's neverending generosity made her see him in a different light. It doesn't make sense, and every time I read her POV, all I feel is insincerity about her new feelings in regards to Ford. I don't buy them, not one bit.
Also, her stubborn attitude when it comes to accepting help is grating my nerves. She said there's an imbalance between them, and pride is the only thing she has. But girl, can your pride give you money for surgery? Will this provide a roof over your head? Or help you buy necessities for your daughter? Gosh, there's nothing wrong with accepting assistance; people need it at some point in their lives.
And most of the time, when Ford offered something, Amber would snap at him and be antagonistic, only to give in and accept the help afterwards. Then she would be grateful and feel awful about her reaction. I can't understand why she needs to put up a fight, she needed the help (so badly, mind you) anyway.
Maybe her realization will be believable in the later part, but I don't have the patience and energy to deal with unrequited love. I tried, but all I felt was unfairness and annoyance. So I'm going to quit while I can.
Ford deserves someone better—someone who sees his worth, someone who wouldn't take almost decades of friendship to realize she loves him, and especially someone who would choose him all the freaking time. I wish he didn't end up with Amber. But this is their story, and like I said, I'm just not the right reader for this.
Well, I tried, but I don't think I'm the audience for this. Friends-to-lovers is usually a miss for me, though there are rare times that it was genuinely a hit. I can't remember a book at the moment, but I'm sure there are some on my read shelf. 😅
Anyway, I just can't wrap my head around the unrequited love, and it's my fault for not reading the blurb. It's a me problem, obviously; that's why I said I'm not the right reader for this book.
The thing is, Ford (34) and Amber (34) have been childhood friends since they were 8, and he said he has been in love with her for a very long time. Unfortunately, Amber never felt that way for him; she said she knew he's attractive but never felt any "attraction" to Ford. But of course, she's slowly having a 180 about him, and here's her thought about it:
"For years, I think the camaraderie we felt toward each other, both being underdogs, made me unable to see him as anything but a friend. But now? I just see a very handsome, very wonderful man. A man who has always taken care of me and made me happy. If only I’d seen it sooner..."
Am I supposed to swoon over this realization and say, I guess it's better late than never??? Why did it take her 26 years of friendship to see the best thing in her life? Is she that dense about him and his efforts? Now that she's at rock bottom, all of a sudden she sees him somehow differently? What gives?
I don't think she's taking advantage of their friendship because Ford is more than willing to do things for her. He has the means, and helping the woman he loves is his priority, so why not? But I feel like if this baby didn't come along, if her engagement didn't fall through, and if she didn't find a heart failure that she couldn't afford the surgery for, this turnaround will never happen.
Not once in her life has she looked at him as a man, yet the sudden proximity, her hormones that are all over the place, and Ford's neverending generosity made her see him in a different light. It doesn't make sense, and every time I read her POV, all I feel is insincerity about her new feelings in regards to Ford. I don't buy them, not one bit.
Also, her stubborn attitude when it comes to accepting help is grating my nerves. She said there's an imbalance between them, and pride is the only thing she has. But girl, can your pride give you money for surgery? Will this provide a roof over your head? Or help you buy necessities for your daughter? Gosh, there's nothing wrong with accepting assistance; people need it at some point in their lives.
And most of the time, when Ford offered something, Amber would snap at him and be antagonistic, only to give in and accept the help afterwards. Then she would be grateful and feel awful about her reaction. I can't understand why she needs to put up a fight, she needed the help (so badly, mind you) anyway.
Maybe her realization will be believable in the later part, but I don't have the patience and energy to deal with unrequited love. I tried, but all I felt was unfairness and annoyance. So I'm going to quit while I can.
Ford deserves someone better—someone who sees his worth, someone who wouldn't take almost decades of friendship to realize she loves him, and especially someone who would choose him all the freaking time. I wish he didn't end up with Amber. But this is their story, and like I said, I'm just not the right reader for this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2024
this was so so sweet - it’s a friends to lovers, marriage of convenience hockey romance.
amber’s boyfriend left her when he found out she was pregnant so she’s been struggling through pregnancy and new motherhood alone but when she finds out she might need heart surgery, she might be in over her head. her childhood best friend, ford, is happy to help however he can and suggests a fake marriage could be mutually beneficial so he can take her of her, help her with her daughter, and… it doesn’t hurt that he’s been carrying a torch for her for years.
this was so so fluffy and cute. ford was so obsessed with her and her daughter and would do anything for the two of them. it’s closed door so no spice but just the perfect fluffy read to make you feel good. ford was seriously the sweetest, most obsessed, shy hero.
i’m so hoping his sister is up next!!!
amber’s boyfriend left her when he found out she was pregnant so she’s been struggling through pregnancy and new motherhood alone but when she finds out she might need heart surgery, she might be in over her head. her childhood best friend, ford, is happy to help however he can and suggests a fake marriage could be mutually beneficial so he can take her of her, help her with her daughter, and… it doesn’t hurt that he’s been carrying a torch for her for years.
this was so so fluffy and cute. ford was so obsessed with her and her daughter and would do anything for the two of them. it’s closed door so no spice but just the perfect fluffy read to make you feel good. ford was seriously the sweetest, most obsessed, shy hero.
i’m so hoping his sister is up next!!!
June 18, 2024
This was absolutely darling! My favorite in the series yet. Loved the Asperger’s rep and the soft romance. This is always my favorite kind of love. A tender friends to lovers romance with really darling flashbacks 🥰
April 5, 2024
The cutest marriage of convenience hockey romance with no third act breakup!!
Ford and Amber were beyond adorable and their story was so low angst and fluffy and cozy!
When amber needs heart surgery, her best friend Ford (who’s loved her for years) offers to marry her so she can be on his health insurance. He immediately steps in and takes care of her and her adorable baby daughter.
Ford is so down bad for Amber that he spends the whole book spoiling her and taking care of her. It was SO freakin cute and he’s my new fav book boyfriend!! Amber and her daughter were perfect and I loved the relationship Ford has with Nella🫶🏼🫶🏼
I loved the care Leah went into writing ford’s character and his neurodivergence! I just want to hug these characters 😭🥹
One of my fav parts of this series is the found family aspect! Seeing all the teammates support each other is the sweetest! I CANNOT wait for Bruce’s book and the teaser are giving me lifeee 👀
Obsessed with this series and these characters so much!!
Thanks Leah for the ARC🫶🏼🩷
Ford and Amber were beyond adorable and their story was so low angst and fluffy and cozy!
When amber needs heart surgery, her best friend Ford (who’s loved her for years) offers to marry her so she can be on his health insurance. He immediately steps in and takes care of her and her adorable baby daughter.
Ford is so down bad for Amber that he spends the whole book spoiling her and taking care of her. It was SO freakin cute and he’s my new fav book boyfriend!! Amber and her daughter were perfect and I loved the relationship Ford has with Nella🫶🏼🫶🏼
I loved the care Leah went into writing ford’s character and his neurodivergence! I just want to hug these characters 😭🥹
One of my fav parts of this series is the found family aspect! Seeing all the teammates support each other is the sweetest! I CANNOT wait for Bruce’s book and the teaser are giving me lifeee 👀
Obsessed with this series and these characters so much!!
Thanks Leah for the ARC🫶🏼🩷
April 14, 2024
crazy how a couple can know each for decades and still lack buildup for the romance.
This book was fine. The tropes are rock solid on paper. Single mom ✔️ marriage of convenience ✔️ best friends to lovers ✔️
But in the book it was so meh. The baby part was cute but I just didn’t feel the chemistry specially with that first kiss which happened kinda out of nowhere like where’s the tension the angst that comes with crushing on someone for YEARS.
3.5 star because it wasn’t bad but just not my taste.
This book was fine. The tropes are rock solid on paper. Single mom ✔️ marriage of convenience ✔️ best friends to lovers ✔️
But in the book it was so meh. The baby part was cute but I just didn’t feel the chemistry specially with that first kiss which happened kinda out of nowhere like where’s the tension the angst that comes with crushing on someone for YEARS.
3.5 star because it wasn’t bad but just not my taste.
April 15, 2024
Have you ever finished a book and just wanted to hug it to your chest? That was this book for me.
This book felt…homey to me. It felt heartwarming & healing. I don’t know how to describe how I felt throughout this whole book, and when it was over other than…happy.
Ford has been my favorite Eagle since the beginning, and getting his story?! Aahhh!! *cue all of the fangirling* It was so much better & more than I could imagine.
Amber & Ford were the best match possible! They felt like the most true form of best friends to me. Soulmates. They fit in every way!
I was a little nervous that Amber was going to be a “hard FMC”…burned by her slimy ex-fiancé, single mom, independent woman. But ah! She was great! Still her own person for sure, but she was a SWEET, easy, loving & loveable character.
Ford was sooo sweet! Laaaa! He was such an amazing character and the neurodivergent rep was done soooo well! He is still my #1 Eagle and this book made me love him even more.
Seriously. Read this book! Love this book! It was SO GOOD!!
5/5 stars
*not cf! closed door, fade to black, mild language & innuendo*
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
This book felt…homey to me. It felt heartwarming & healing. I don’t know how to describe how I felt throughout this whole book, and when it was over other than…happy.
Ford has been my favorite Eagle since the beginning, and getting his story?! Aahhh!! *cue all of the fangirling* It was so much better & more than I could imagine.
Amber & Ford were the best match possible! They felt like the most true form of best friends to me. Soulmates. They fit in every way!
I was a little nervous that Amber was going to be a “hard FMC”…burned by her slimy ex-fiancé, single mom, independent woman. But ah! She was great! Still her own person for sure, but she was a SWEET, easy, loving & loveable character.
Ford was sooo sweet! Laaaa! He was such an amazing character and the neurodivergent rep was done soooo well! He is still my #1 Eagle and this book made me love him even more.
Seriously. Read this book! Love this book! It was SO GOOD!!
5/5 stars
*not cf! closed door, fade to black, mild language & innuendo*
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
July 22, 2024
Well this was delightful!
I shouldn't be surprised since I adored all the books prior in this series.
Ford is probably my favourite character Brunner has ever written!
So relatable and adorable and heartbreaking.
I loved this story sooo much!!!
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my ARC.
I shouldn't be surprised since I adored all the books prior in this series.
Ford is probably my favourite character Brunner has ever written!
So relatable and adorable and heartbreaking.
I loved this story sooo much!!!
Much love to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for my ARC.
May 7, 2024
Ok so I seriously did not think I would like this book…I’m not a big fan of single mom in romance usually, but this book was so so good! 🥰 I just loved it so much!! Amber was such an amazing mother and person, and so relatable! Ford was actual goals🤭 He was so sweet with Nella (amazing name btw), I mean he went and did research and bought her a car seat with the best safety ratings!!! 🥹 That’s love. He sounded so sweet when he was with his family and Amber, and I now want a guy to get a tattoo to think of me😝 Again, I loved seeing the friendship between the guys on the team, and seeing where they all are now, married and happy! I loved the autism rep, and it was so sweet and heartwarming to see Amber be his rock, and comfort him whenever he needed it😍 I also loved how the tropes came together!!
🥅 Introverted boy x extroverted girl
🥅 Single mom
🥅 One bed
🥅 Fake marriage
🥅 Childhood best friends
🥅 Autism rep
🥅 Hockey romance
And I loved that they both knew each other so well, always understanding what the other needed or wants☺️ And I literally almost melted with Ford described her dream ring!!! Y’all I just love this book! I was totally not planning to finish in less than a day, it was just that good😂 I definitely can’t recommend this book enough!!! Def one of my new KU faves!! Now I really want to hear Bruce’s story🤪
Pages: 318
Language: 🫢
TW⚠️: abandonment, innuendos
Genre: Romance
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Would I recommend to others: Yes!!
🥅 Introverted boy x extroverted girl
🥅 Single mom
🥅 One bed
🥅 Fake marriage
🥅 Childhood best friends
🥅 Autism rep
🥅 Hockey romance
And I loved that they both knew each other so well, always understanding what the other needed or wants☺️ And I literally almost melted with Ford described her dream ring!!! Y’all I just love this book! I was totally not planning to finish in less than a day, it was just that good😂 I definitely can’t recommend this book enough!!! Def one of my new KU faves!! Now I really want to hear Bruce’s story🤪
Pages: 318
Language: 🫢
TW⚠️: abandonment, innuendos
Genre: Romance
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Would I recommend to others: Yes!!
April 4, 2024
♾️⭐️
🌹Best friends to lovers
🌹 Marriage of convenience
🌹 Single mom
🌹 Closed door romance
This is my favorite Leah Brunner book so far. Ford just stole my heart, sorry Colby.
Ford was a character I fell in love with from the beginning; I loved the representation of neurodiversity he brought. Getting inside his head was amazing, and I just wanted to hug him so badly.
Amber is the kind of character I love, strong, and knows what she wants. Despite everything she's going through, she still remains a queen.
The story, in my opinion, unfolded perfectly. Ford's initial reaction to meeting Amber and getting to know Nella felt so real, and I liked that. As the story progresses, you can see the connection Ford forms with Nella, and they're just so cute together. Ford is truly a Daddy.
Amber and Ford are adorable together, and Amber really understands Ford. And for anyone thinking that just because the book is a closed-door romance, you wouldn't be grinning like crazy, blushing, and tapping your feet, well, you're wrong. These two are *chef's kiss*.
I devoured this book in just 8 hours, and I more than recommend it. Please read this book.
Thank you so much, Wordsmith Publicity, for sending me this ARC.
🌹Best friends to lovers
🌹 Marriage of convenience
🌹 Single mom
🌹 Closed door romance
This is my favorite Leah Brunner book so far. Ford just stole my heart, sorry Colby.
Ford was a character I fell in love with from the beginning; I loved the representation of neurodiversity he brought. Getting inside his head was amazing, and I just wanted to hug him so badly.
Amber is the kind of character I love, strong, and knows what she wants. Despite everything she's going through, she still remains a queen.
The story, in my opinion, unfolded perfectly. Ford's initial reaction to meeting Amber and getting to know Nella felt so real, and I liked that. As the story progresses, you can see the connection Ford forms with Nella, and they're just so cute together. Ford is truly a Daddy.
Amber and Ford are adorable together, and Amber really understands Ford. And for anyone thinking that just because the book is a closed-door romance, you wouldn't be grinning like crazy, blushing, and tapping your feet, well, you're wrong. These two are *chef's kiss*.
I devoured this book in just 8 hours, and I more than recommend it. Please read this book.
Thank you so much, Wordsmith Publicity, for sending me this ARC.
April 7, 2024
Such a fast read over this weekend. My favorite book from Leah so far! Ford is such a gentleman and I love how he’s known Amber his whole life. I love the whole team dynamic too and Leah’s humor is so funny!
July 16, 2024
“I love you, Ambs. I loved you when we were eight years old, and I love you still.”
Ahhhh!!! This perfect beautiful book!!! It was full of so many amazing tropes!
•Childhood best friends to lovers
•Mutual pining
•Marriage of convenience
•Hockey Romance
•Single mom
•Neurodivergent hero
•Found Family
And there was no third act breakup!!! 👏
❤️
Ford was the PERFECT MMC! Leah did such an incredible job with his character. Neurodivergent heroes are my favorite. And Ford checked all the boxes! His golden retriever personality mixed with his possessive straightforwardness was perfect! Not wanting to come off like he was different, he had learned to mask his autism from year of being treated like an outcast, mirroring his teammates' characteristics and following their social cues.
"I stare at him; I’ve always loved his laugh. Ford doesn’t always connect with people’s humor, and jokes sometimes don’t make sense in his beautiful brain. Which makes his laughter all the more special when it appears."
Amber was so sweet. She was a single mom just wanting the best for her daughter. Unfortunately, life hadn't been very kind to her, but Ford was her constant always there when she needed him! And Amer was his safe place. These two had a beautiful connection! I loved her ability to read him, to know when he was stressed out, and to know how to get him to open up and tell her what he was thinking!
"Ford, this is a once in a lifetime…once in a universe, type of love.”
❤️
I loved his sweet conversation with Nella (She was 3 months)
"So, I’d like your permission to stay married to her. I’d like your stamp of approval, because as much as I’d like you two to be mine forever, I want my girls to choose me too.” She grins, and I smile back. “Good. I’m glad we agree on the matter.” I clear my throat. “Now, how do I look?” I glance down at my dark jeans and white polo. Nella burps loudly and my eyes widen. “Wow. That seems harsh. Is it really that bad?”
The way he took such good care of her was so sweet!
“You need to understand something.” He pauses, and I nod. “What’s happening between us, not the fake marriage stuff, but the real stuff. It means something to me. I take this seriously. It’s my honor to take care of you both—it’s a privilege. And I plan to take care of you very, very well. For as long as you’ll let me.”
This book was so wholesome. I loved the side characters. Ford's relationship with his family and his teammates! 😍
This book was a closed door book! But it had such angst and perfect moments leading up to the bedroom scene that I didn't even find myself thinking about it! I honestly thought even that was done perfectly!
Ahhhh!!! This perfect beautiful book!!! It was full of so many amazing tropes!
•Childhood best friends to lovers
•Mutual pining
•Marriage of convenience
•Hockey Romance
•Single mom
•Neurodivergent hero
•Found Family
And there was no third act breakup!!! 👏
❤️
Ford was the PERFECT MMC! Leah did such an incredible job with his character. Neurodivergent heroes are my favorite. And Ford checked all the boxes! His golden retriever personality mixed with his possessive straightforwardness was perfect! Not wanting to come off like he was different, he had learned to mask his autism from year of being treated like an outcast, mirroring his teammates' characteristics and following their social cues.
"I stare at him; I’ve always loved his laugh. Ford doesn’t always connect with people’s humor, and jokes sometimes don’t make sense in his beautiful brain. Which makes his laughter all the more special when it appears."
Amber was so sweet. She was a single mom just wanting the best for her daughter. Unfortunately, life hadn't been very kind to her, but Ford was her constant always there when she needed him! And Amer was his safe place. These two had a beautiful connection! I loved her ability to read him, to know when he was stressed out, and to know how to get him to open up and tell her what he was thinking!
"Ford, this is a once in a lifetime…once in a universe, type of love.”
❤️
I loved his sweet conversation with Nella (She was 3 months)
"So, I’d like your permission to stay married to her. I’d like your stamp of approval, because as much as I’d like you two to be mine forever, I want my girls to choose me too.” She grins, and I smile back. “Good. I’m glad we agree on the matter.” I clear my throat. “Now, how do I look?” I glance down at my dark jeans and white polo. Nella burps loudly and my eyes widen. “Wow. That seems harsh. Is it really that bad?”
The way he took such good care of her was so sweet!
“You need to understand something.” He pauses, and I nod. “What’s happening between us, not the fake marriage stuff, but the real stuff. It means something to me. I take this seriously. It’s my honor to take care of you both—it’s a privilege. And I plan to take care of you very, very well. For as long as you’ll let me.”
This book was so wholesome. I loved the side characters. Ford's relationship with his family and his teammates! 😍
This book was a closed door book! But it had such angst and perfect moments leading up to the bedroom scene that I didn't even find myself thinking about it! I honestly thought even that was done perfectly!
April 3, 2024
“I’m sorry. I feel like we’ve turned your life into a living, breathing tornado.”
He looks at me, his brown eyes locking with mine “Thankfully, I’ve always liked storms.”
This friends to lovers and fake marriage hockey romance was SO good! I’ve been anxiously waiting for Ford Remington’s story, and it exceeded my expectations in every way.
Ford and Amber have been best friends since 2nd grade. Their meet-cute is one of the sweetest ever!
Years later, when single mom Amber is in need of minor heart surgery, Ford doesn’t hesitate to offer help. He’ll do anything for the girl he’s always loved, including marrying her so she’ll have health insurance.
They agree to stay together for two years in a platonic marriage, but the thoughts of not having Amber and her baby permanently in his life becomes more and more painful to even consider.
What I loved:
Both MCs are underdogs
Asperger’s rep
Friends to lovers
Fake marriage
He falls first and falls hard
Ford is gentle, sweet, selfless
Pink Piano Roses
Baby Nella
Ford’s adult convo with Nella
Hockey players babysitting
‘My wife’ moments
It’s always been you
This book had my heart from beginning to end. It’s romantic, cute and funny, but with so much depth and emotion.
The way Amber and Ford cared for each other was beautiful. I absolutely adored them and couldn’t help cheer for them to get a much deserved happy life together.
Betrothal or Breakaway is a solid 5 star read for me and one I definitely recommend.
This is book 3 in the D.C. Eagles Hockey series but can definitely be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author for an eARC!
He looks at me, his brown eyes locking with mine “Thankfully, I’ve always liked storms.”
This friends to lovers and fake marriage hockey romance was SO good! I’ve been anxiously waiting for Ford Remington’s story, and it exceeded my expectations in every way.
Ford and Amber have been best friends since 2nd grade. Their meet-cute is one of the sweetest ever!
Years later, when single mom Amber is in need of minor heart surgery, Ford doesn’t hesitate to offer help. He’ll do anything for the girl he’s always loved, including marrying her so she’ll have health insurance.
They agree to stay together for two years in a platonic marriage, but the thoughts of not having Amber and her baby permanently in his life becomes more and more painful to even consider.
What I loved:
Both MCs are underdogs
Asperger’s rep
Friends to lovers
Fake marriage
He falls first and falls hard
Ford is gentle, sweet, selfless
Pink Piano Roses
Baby Nella
Ford’s adult convo with Nella
Hockey players babysitting
‘My wife’ moments
It’s always been you
This book had my heart from beginning to end. It’s romantic, cute and funny, but with so much depth and emotion.
The way Amber and Ford cared for each other was beautiful. I absolutely adored them and couldn’t help cheer for them to get a much deserved happy life together.
Betrothal or Breakaway is a solid 5 star read for me and one I definitely recommend.
This is book 3 in the D.C. Eagles Hockey series but can definitely be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author for an eARC!
July 9, 2024
"Ford, this is a once in a lifetime…once in a universe, type of love."
- Hockey romance (NHL team captain)
- Marriage of convenience
- Childhood best friends to lovers
- Single mum
- He falls first/it's always been you
- Mental health rep (MMC has Aspergers)
- Found family
- Closed door
- Slow-burn romance with no breakup
- Dual POV
- Narrated by Alex Picard & David Bendena
Premise: you need surgery, but you don't have health insurance, so you fake-marry your rich NHL captain best friend.
What to expect in Betrothal or Breakaway:
- The biggest softie sweetheart MMC 🥺. Who knew an NHL captain could be so relatable? I definitely saw pieces of myself in Ford. He was quiet yet so thoughtful, sweet, and generous to both Amber and Nella. "My heartbeat now thrums with the word mine as I look at them." Oh, and he might love to spoil her... and have a secret tattoo 👀.
- The best family and found family vibes. Amber got the family she always dreamed of, plus a bonus found family.
- Childhood best friends to lovers perfection. I love the comfort and familiarity of this trope, but this book adds another layer because of Ford's Aspergers. Amber intrinsically understands him and his needs. It was just so sweet to see their friendship slowly turn into more. I also love that we got little snippets from their past.
- A slow burn, closed-door romance that didn't feel slow as the tension built beautifully! Plus, no breakup.
If you're looking for a sweet hockey romance series, I couldn't recommend the DC Eagles series more. I've listened to every book on audio and adore them all.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Leah for the early audio copy!
- Hockey romance (NHL team captain)
- Marriage of convenience
- Childhood best friends to lovers
- Single mum
- He falls first/it's always been you
- Mental health rep (MMC has Aspergers)
- Found family
- Closed door
- Slow-burn romance with no breakup
- Dual POV
- Narrated by Alex Picard & David Bendena
Premise: you need surgery, but you don't have health insurance, so you fake-marry your rich NHL captain best friend.
What to expect in Betrothal or Breakaway:
- The biggest softie sweetheart MMC 🥺. Who knew an NHL captain could be so relatable? I definitely saw pieces of myself in Ford. He was quiet yet so thoughtful, sweet, and generous to both Amber and Nella. "My heartbeat now thrums with the word mine as I look at them." Oh, and he might love to spoil her... and have a secret tattoo 👀.
- The best family and found family vibes. Amber got the family she always dreamed of, plus a bonus found family.
- Childhood best friends to lovers perfection. I love the comfort and familiarity of this trope, but this book adds another layer because of Ford's Aspergers. Amber intrinsically understands him and his needs. It was just so sweet to see their friendship slowly turn into more. I also love that we got little snippets from their past.
- A slow burn, closed-door romance that didn't feel slow as the tension built beautifully! Plus, no breakup.
If you're looking for a sweet hockey romance series, I couldn't recommend the DC Eagles series more. I've listened to every book on audio and adore them all.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Leah for the early audio copy!
April 8, 2024
this is where my double standards come to play bc i would absolutely hate this book if it was single dad + pining heroine 🥴🥴
”I stare into Amber’s eyes, and she smiles a secret smile.
A smile that promises a lifetime of love. And I smile right back.”
🏒 neurodivergent mmc
🏒 marriage of convenience
🏒 single mom
🏒 inexperienced mmc
🏒 childhood bffs x lovers
🏒 nhl player
🏒 boy pining
🏒 closed door & no third act
Ford and Amber have been friends since they were 8 and at 34 are still each others best friends. Ford has loved Amber for as long as he can remember but Amber has never thought of him in any way romantic. Left by her ex-fiancé when she found out she was pregnant she’s been a single for a year & a new mom for 3 months. during labor they discovered Amber has a hole in her heart that needs repaired and without insurance or the finances she needs… she turns to Ford for help. he thinks they should get married. it will help her with insurance and it will get everyone to stop thinking he is lonely and feeling bad.
now i don’t know what to rate this… on one hand i adored them. this was very easy read. no drama or angst and that made it kind of …. boring. it’s very fast paced besides the flash back chapters the book takes place within like a month. i’m not sure i buy her realizing she loves him after never looking at him in that light during the 26 years they’ve know one another. and all of a sudden she sees him differently when they see each other often? have shared a bed before? idk man.
Ford saved the book for me. it’s 3-4 stars just for him. i loved the autism rep and how it’s portrayed was done very well imo. him moving into daddy mode so effortlessly 🥺🥺🥺🥺 he was just too good to be true 🤭💗 i’m glad they loved in different states bc my heart couldn’t handle him having to see her with om.. i know they met a few times but that’s enough
”I stare into Amber’s eyes, and she smiles a secret smile.
A smile that promises a lifetime of love. And I smile right back.”
🏒 neurodivergent mmc
🏒 marriage of convenience
🏒 single mom
🏒 inexperienced mmc
🏒 childhood bffs x lovers
🏒 nhl player
🏒 boy pining
🏒 closed door & no third act
Ford and Amber have been friends since they were 8 and at 34 are still each others best friends. Ford has loved Amber for as long as he can remember but Amber has never thought of him in any way romantic. Left by her ex-fiancé when she found out she was pregnant she’s been a single for a year & a new mom for 3 months. during labor they discovered Amber has a hole in her heart that needs repaired and without insurance or the finances she needs… she turns to Ford for help. he thinks they should get married. it will help her with insurance and it will get everyone to stop thinking he is lonely and feeling bad.
now i don’t know what to rate this… on one hand i adored them. this was very easy read. no drama or angst and that made it kind of …. boring. it’s very fast paced besides the flash back chapters the book takes place within like a month. i’m not sure i buy her realizing she loves him after never looking at him in that light during the 26 years they’ve know one another. and all of a sudden she sees him differently when they see each other often? have shared a bed before? idk man.
Ford saved the book for me. it’s 3-4 stars just for him. i loved the autism rep and how it’s portrayed was done very well imo. him moving into daddy mode so effortlessly 🥺🥺🥺🥺 he was just too good to be true 🤭💗 i’m glad they loved in different states bc my heart couldn’t handle him having to see her with om.. i know they met a few times but that’s enough
April 23, 2024
Alright, I’m really not a sports person. I don’t like to watch it (unless it’s my own kid) and I don’t like to play it. In school, I was the one no one would pick… as disheartening as that was at the time, it really was because I was terrible… 🙃
However, I think Leah Brunner has got me when it comes to hockey. Well, at least when it comes to the D.C. Eagles. 🦅😏
What a cute story!! Humorous AND meaningful… I appreciate when rom coms feature characters that are realistic, that struggle (don’t we all?) and find love sometimes in the most unexpected (or expected?) places. 🫶🏻🫶🏻 Sometimes, what we really need most has been right in front of us all along.
Ford has a had a long time crush on his childhood best friend, Amber. Unfortunately, she’s only ever seen him as a friend. When her life falls apart, however, Ford is the one to catch her… and her baby girl. When Ford finds out Amber needs heart surgery AND has no insurance.. well, a fake marriage, at least in Ford’s mind is the most logical decision, right?
What I loved:
-The first time they meet in school 🥹
-Neurodivergent MMC, it’s great to see this represented in books
-Ford already having the car seat installed
-The hospital bed scene
-The D.C. Eagles all watching Nella while Amber went out with the girls.
-Also, said Eagles supporting Ford when he can’t breathe/has an attack
-Ford was Amber’s safe place, not just as in a place to land or the insurance but his heart.
-His protectiveness for Amber & Nella—dad mode activated!
-Moose 🐾
-The epilogue 🥹
-The bonus epilogue 😅
Read if you enjoy:
🥅 Childhood best friends
🥅 Marriage of Convenience
🏒 He falls first
🏒 Single Mom
🥅 Found Family
🥅 “My wife”
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Pink piano roses
🥅 Secret tattoo
🥅 Hockey family
Content: mild language, fade to black between married couple, innuendo. From the author: themes of child neglect (past), and death of pet (non-descriptive)
What’s your favorite sport?
However, I think Leah Brunner has got me when it comes to hockey. Well, at least when it comes to the D.C. Eagles. 🦅😏
What a cute story!! Humorous AND meaningful… I appreciate when rom coms feature characters that are realistic, that struggle (don’t we all?) and find love sometimes in the most unexpected (or expected?) places. 🫶🏻🫶🏻 Sometimes, what we really need most has been right in front of us all along.
Ford has a had a long time crush on his childhood best friend, Amber. Unfortunately, she’s only ever seen him as a friend. When her life falls apart, however, Ford is the one to catch her… and her baby girl. When Ford finds out Amber needs heart surgery AND has no insurance.. well, a fake marriage, at least in Ford’s mind is the most logical decision, right?
What I loved:
-The first time they meet in school 🥹
-Neurodivergent MMC, it’s great to see this represented in books
-Ford already having the car seat installed
-The hospital bed scene
-The D.C. Eagles all watching Nella while Amber went out with the girls.
-Also, said Eagles supporting Ford when he can’t breathe/has an attack
-Ford was Amber’s safe place, not just as in a place to land or the insurance but his heart.
-His protectiveness for Amber & Nella—dad mode activated!
-Moose 🐾
-The epilogue 🥹
-The bonus epilogue 😅
Read if you enjoy:
🥅 Childhood best friends
🥅 Marriage of Convenience
🏒 He falls first
🏒 Single Mom
🥅 Found Family
🥅 “My wife”
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Pink piano roses
🥅 Secret tattoo
🥅 Hockey family
Content: mild language, fade to black between married couple, innuendo. From the author: themes of child neglect (past), and death of pet (non-descriptive)
What’s your favorite sport?
May 6, 2024
Did someone say single mom x virgin hero? I‘m sold 💳
- - - -
Sadly, the book lacked depth and was more on the surface level. There could definitely be more character building!!
- - - -
Sadly, the book lacked depth and was more on the surface level. There could definitely be more character building!!
June 18, 2024
probablemente lo más sano que he leído en todo el año, las expectativas poco realistas se fueron por los cielos porque él SIEMPRE ha estado enamorado de ella y nunca ha estado con nadie ☝️
May 5, 2024
“Would you stop buying me stuff?”
“No.”
Immediate 4 stars.
“No.”
Immediate 4 stars.
April 4, 2024
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
THIS WAS EVERYTHING.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I don’t even know how to write this in a way to convince y’all that this is one of my new favorite sports romance, BUT JUST TRUST ME. If you get nothing else from this review, know that this is my new favorite Leah Brunner book.
I ADORED Ford. I can’t wrap it up into once concise sentence. I just loved him. His personality and how he handled situations, the way he communicated and the fiery blushes he could not control. The absolute way he was GONE for Amber and Nella. The heated looks and longing glances, the caretaking and family relationships. He’s everything I could have dreamed up and more.
I also loved Amber. Dual POV romances always hit better. Amber was filled with strength and hope that each day was going to be a step in the direction and life she’s longed for. I loved how she realized her connection with Ford was deeper than she expected and how everything was handled between them. The fade to black scenes only enhance the story and showed how tender and passionate these two are. It had the soulmate level chemistry.
And I appreciated how many of the side situations were handled too. A lot could have been blown out of proportion and instead things were nicely wrapped up in a satisfying way. There’s so many moments I could pick out that I loved and I already can’t wait to reread this.
……the way I need the next book after surmising who it’s about…….
Overall audience notes:
- Hockey Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: fade to black
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: minor heart surgery, broken engagement, difficult parent relationships
THIS WAS EVERYTHING.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I don’t even know how to write this in a way to convince y’all that this is one of my new favorite sports romance, BUT JUST TRUST ME. If you get nothing else from this review, know that this is my new favorite Leah Brunner book.
I ADORED Ford. I can’t wrap it up into once concise sentence. I just loved him. His personality and how he handled situations, the way he communicated and the fiery blushes he could not control. The absolute way he was GONE for Amber and Nella. The heated looks and longing glances, the caretaking and family relationships. He’s everything I could have dreamed up and more.
I also loved Amber. Dual POV romances always hit better. Amber was filled with strength and hope that each day was going to be a step in the direction and life she’s longed for. I loved how she realized her connection with Ford was deeper than she expected and how everything was handled between them. The fade to black scenes only enhance the story and showed how tender and passionate these two are. It had the soulmate level chemistry.
And I appreciated how many of the side situations were handled too. A lot could have been blown out of proportion and instead things were nicely wrapped up in a satisfying way. There’s so many moments I could pick out that I loved and I already can’t wait to reread this.
……the way I need the next book after surmising who it’s about…….
Overall audience notes:
- Hockey Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: fade to black
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: minor heart surgery, broken engagement, difficult parent relationships
July 7, 2024
While this wasn't my favorite of the DC Eagles Hockey series, it was still a heartwarming, feel-good, marriage of convenience romance with great neurodiversity and disability rep. I love that it was two childhood friends, a single mother/pro hockey player pairing, and absolutely fell in love with team captain Ford and his giant marshmallow heart! Great on audio and highly recommended for fan of authors like Jenny Proctor and Emma St. Clair. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 15, 2024
Virgin heroes single mom golden retriever, hero, childhood, best friends, marriage of convenience these are just some of the troops that make this book so great. I love a hockey romance and marriage of convenience. It’s just the icing on the cake. I got to read. Listen to this arc from NetGalley.
April 23, 2024
Okay, it’s official. Ford is my favorite Eagle 🤣 I loved Colby, but Ford’s steadiness wins in my mind.
Content: sex before marriage, marriage of convenience so marriage things are hinted out, parental abandonment, and some language
Content: sex before marriage, marriage of convenience so marriage things are hinted out, parental abandonment, and some language
April 4, 2024
We all know I love best friends to lovers because of the history between the characters and this is exactly that!!! The bond between Ford and Amber was so sweet and the way Ford treated Amber and her daughter had me 🥲 you also get flashbacks of them in elementary school/high school which I loved reading 🥺
The found family in this book is just so good — with the hockey players and with the wives/gfs and Amber. It was so sweet to read 🤍
I also loved seeing the characters from the first two books and I’m so excited for the next one 🤭
It’s also on KU!
Thank you to the author for the arc!! 🤍
The found family in this book is just so good — with the hockey players and with the wives/gfs and Amber. It was so sweet to read 🤍
I also loved seeing the characters from the first two books and I’m so excited for the next one 🤭
It’s also on KU!
Thank you to the author for the arc!! 🤍
April 16, 2024
4.5 stars
For someone who knows absolutely nothing about hockey I’m becoming quite the fan of books about hockey players 😂
This book was so sweet, friends to lovers is not my favorite generally speaking but I absolutely loved how it was done in this book. Amber and Ford had a special bond as childhood friends that became something even more beautiful as their relationship progressed.
I felt so bad for how Amber had been treated by the people in her life who should have looked out for her and loved her the most. She faced so much of her life on her own so it was sweet to see Ford provide her and her daughter with a soft place to land. Also, watching a group of hockey players dote on and care for a baby was just about the cutest thing ever!
Things I loved about Ford:
💙neurodivergent MMC
💙he blushes
💙he only has eyes for her
💙he falls first
💙he worries about her and is protective of her
💙he calls her “Ambs” 🥹
💙he loves her selflessly and takes care of her and her daughter without wanting anything in return
💙how he treated Nella like his own daughter
💙he is so thoughtful towards her (all of the little ways that he cared for her and made her feel special) 💐
💙the lingerie scene
💙(a secret tattoo!!)
Things I loved about Amber:
💖single mom
💖she was his safe place from the start she always SAW him for who he was and understood him in a way that others didn’t.
💖she knew how to put him at ease and take care of him in a way that no one else could
💖she was very in tune with his needs and subtle cues
💖she defended him when he needed it and gave him confidence
I’ve read all of the D.C. eagles books by Leah Brunner and they have all been so great! I can’t wait to read more of her books.
I really loved seeing a little spark between Ford’s sister and Bruce. She’s had her share of bad luck in romance and I’m excited to see her get a happy ending too. 💕
For someone who knows absolutely nothing about hockey I’m becoming quite the fan of books about hockey players 😂
This book was so sweet, friends to lovers is not my favorite generally speaking but I absolutely loved how it was done in this book. Amber and Ford had a special bond as childhood friends that became something even more beautiful as their relationship progressed.
I felt so bad for how Amber had been treated by the people in her life who should have looked out for her and loved her the most. She faced so much of her life on her own so it was sweet to see Ford provide her and her daughter with a soft place to land. Also, watching a group of hockey players dote on and care for a baby was just about the cutest thing ever!
Things I loved about Ford:
💙neurodivergent MMC
💙he blushes
💙he only has eyes for her
💙he falls first
💙he worries about her and is protective of her
💙he calls her “Ambs” 🥹
💙he loves her selflessly and takes care of her and her daughter without wanting anything in return
💙how he treated Nella like his own daughter
💙he is so thoughtful towards her (all of the little ways that he cared for her and made her feel special) 💐
💙the lingerie scene
💙(a secret tattoo!!)
Things I loved about Amber:
💖single mom
💖she was his safe place from the start she always SAW him for who he was and understood him in a way that others didn’t.
💖she knew how to put him at ease and take care of him in a way that no one else could
💖she was very in tune with his needs and subtle cues
💖she defended him when he needed it and gave him confidence
I’ve read all of the D.C. eagles books by Leah Brunner and they have all been so great! I can’t wait to read more of her books.
I really loved seeing a little spark between Ford’s sister and Bruce. She’s had her share of bad luck in romance and I’m excited to see her get a happy ending too. 💕
July 16, 2024
✨️Tropes:
Best friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Single Parent
Sports Romance
Neurodivergent Representation
Closed door romance
✨️First and foremost, I loved that the main characters were people in their 30s, closer to my age! Second, woo 🥵, this may have been a closed door romance, but it got steamy. The MMC, Ford, had me swooning so hard 😍😍. Who doesn't love a tall, dark, and handsome hockey player? Tag on that he takes in his female best friend and becomes a hot step daddy ❤️❤️.
I definitely recommend you give this a book a read if you like friends to lovers and/or sports romance. ❤️
This was my first book by Leah, and after reading this, I want to go back and read the others in this series!
Best friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Single Parent
Sports Romance
Neurodivergent Representation
Closed door romance
✨️First and foremost, I loved that the main characters were people in their 30s, closer to my age! Second, woo 🥵, this may have been a closed door romance, but it got steamy. The MMC, Ford, had me swooning so hard 😍😍. Who doesn't love a tall, dark, and handsome hockey player? Tag on that he takes in his female best friend and becomes a hot step daddy ❤️❤️.
I definitely recommend you give this a book a read if you like friends to lovers and/or sports romance. ❤️
This was my first book by Leah, and after reading this, I want to go back and read the others in this series!
April 29, 2024
omg this book was the cutest !! this was probably the healthiest relationship i’ve ever read. ford is such a sweet and caring guy, like he has been in love with her since they were in second grade and he imagined his whole life with her !!! and the way he would do anything not only for her but also for her daughter, he is an obsessed man, and we love to see it.
it was so so fluffy and sweet and fyi it’s closed door so no spice but just the perfect light and cute read to make you feel good.
and last but not least, a special mention to the author who i think did an amazing job writing ford’s character and his neurodivergence.
it was so so fluffy and sweet and fyi it’s closed door so no spice but just the perfect light and cute read to make you feel good.
and last but not least, a special mention to the author who i think did an amazing job writing ford’s character and his neurodivergence.
April 11, 2024
When i say i devoured this book, i DEVOURED IT 😭❤️
This was the cutest thing I’ve read in awhile. Was it predictable? Yeah a bit. Did i care? Absolutely not
This was the cutest thing I’ve read in awhile. Was it predictable? Yeah a bit. Did i care? Absolutely not
September 10, 2024
It was cute
If you want something super simple, no drama, no spice, then it’s a good book
I might even read the 4th because I’m curious about the couple
But it didn’t feed me the way I wanted to be fed but even so, I found myself wanting to pick it up and thought about them
If you want something super simple, no drama, no spice, then it’s a good book
I might even read the 4th because I’m curious about the couple
But it didn’t feed me the way I wanted to be fed but even so, I found myself wanting to pick it up and thought about them
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