I received an eARC from Love Notes PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

After a disastrous night in Chicago three years ago, Violet Amin and Mason Hayes haven’t talked. Violet completely iced Mason out after he seemingly turned her down, again. Now, as a third year PhD student at Westchester University, she just wants to focus on finishing her research, teaching, and securing fellowships. 

After one too many concussions, Mason Hayes had to quit his dream of playing in the NHL. He finds himself back at the school that gave him his start, Westchester University, as an assistant coach. When Mason runs into Violet, he cannot believe his eyes. Unfortunately, Violet still wants nothing to do with him.

Violet is forced to interact with Mason when one of his star players is struggling in her class. As the two begin to work together, Violet tries to keep Mason at arms length, but soon she begins to fall for his charms again. Mason thought he would never get the chance again to be in Violet’s life and he’s determined to do whatever he can.

I really enjoyed this one, but was hoping for more tension. I understand the two grew up together, but I felt like they fell into a relationship really quick. Also, I would have loved if Mason’s sister (also Violet’s best friend) could have been utilized a bit more. Overall, I loved seeing them support each other. Mason struggled with imposter syndrome and was still mourning his loss of the NHL, while Violet was struggling with anxiety and spreading herself too thin after a rough first year with a toxic advisor. 

Read if you like:
• second chance romance
• childhood friends to lovers
• hockey