Member Reviews
Once again Helena Hunting has done it. She’s written the perfect sport romance with drama, a forbidden relationship but not her usual hero. Her Pucked series has always been one of my favourite hockey series out there, but I think The All-In series might have just overtaken it.
A Secret For A Secret starts with Ryan Kingston, or King, the star goalie for the Seattle hockey team in a bar, drowning his sorrows after a traumatic family secret is revealed. He meets Queenie who is also recovering from a disaster of a day and the two strike up a friendship by telling each other what happened, a secret for a secret. They end up spending the night together, which is so unlike King, and the next morning, Queenie has gone. King thinks nothing of it, blaming the alcohol, until six weeks later, on the first day of the new season, who should he run into at the rink, but Queenie, the new assistant to Jake, the GM of the team, and his daughter.
Now this is where things don’t go the way I was expecting them to. King and Queenie both admit to their attraction but due to not wanting to cross the boundaries of professionalism, and Queenie not wanting to disappoint her father, they decide to keep things platonic and be friends. They spend time together and open up, becoming friends and realising how well they get on. Once they decide to take the next step, they come clean to Queenie’s father and their relationship goes from strength to strength. Until someone from Queenie’s past comes back into her life, along with another big secret she kept buried for years. What will happen when secrets are revealed, and will King and Queenie be able to come out the other side as a couple, or are there even more obstacles in their way?
From the start, it seems like King and Queenie’s story is going to be one of the alpha playboys who sweeps the girl off her feet despite the obstacles in their way. But quickly, you realise that King is not like that, he is this put together, mature sensible man, but once you get him to break down those walls, wow does he become a different person. He is unlike any hero I have read before, but I think he is now close to the top of my list of all-time book boyfriends. I loved his personality, how he loved fiercely and always put Queenie first. He was sweet, kind and caring, but could flip the switch to be a boy scout no more, dirty and hot. How he dealt with the past was mature and reasonable, I adored how he didn’t overreact, he dealt with his hurt and spoke about it honestly.
Queenie was such a great heroine. She was strong, sassy and although she was unsure of what she wanted, she was determined to find something that fulfilled her love for art. All her life she desired stability and structure, something she didn’t have growing up, which is why King was the perfect match for her. She wasn’t too sure about herself at the beginning, thanks to others bringing her down, bit with the help of her dad and King, she realises her true potential and that she can do anything she puts her mind to. How she was with Vi and Alex’s kids was so sweet, and I loved her friendship with Stevie and the girls, she was truly welcomed into the girlfriend’s bubble.
The plot was written perfectly and was unexpected at times, because like most romances of this trope, I expected the drama to come from their relationship being revealed to the one person they wanted to keep it from, but that was not the case at all, as you will understand quickly from King’s personality. There were some heart-breaking moments when I wanted to give each of them a hug for their past hurt, but also some hilarious times which made me laugh out loud. There was zero miscommunication, one of my biggest pet peeves in romance novels, so this was a highlight for me, because once the drama was out in the open, they dealt with it head on. The bromance between King and Bishop was brilliant, their banter and advice were just what Bishop needed, but it was also so amazing to see how RJ and Bishop’s friendship became real after Bishop married Stevie. The epilogue was perfect, it made me so happy and I am hoping and praying that who I think Jake ends up with is correct, I wonder if we’ll ever find out!
Helena’s writing was amazing as always, dragging me back into the world of hockey with these new fun, interesting and relatable characters whilst still keeping the couples we know and love present. It adds more depth to the story as you know their stories too. Her heroes and heroines are believable as they are flawed but lovable, making anyone who reads her books fall in love with them. She is and always will be a one-click author to me, and A Secret For A Secret has only solidified her place on that list.
A Secret For A Secret is probably my favourite book from this series, they were the King and Queen of each other’s hearts in the end. Another 5-star read from Helena, as always!!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
A Secret for a Secret is Helena Hunting's newest addition to her endearing hockey series, All In. I immediately connected with the two main characters, Kingston and Queenie and the story kept me quickly turning the pages to find out what would happen next.
Kingston is a goalie and a professional hockey player with a heart of gold. He is a rule follower and always tries to do the right thing. He is delightfully charming and a little awkward with Queenie and he stole my heart, right along with hers.
I enjoyed Kingston and Queenie’s story. Even though they are total opposites, they are perfect for each other. Queenie is messy and goes from one problem to the next. She doesn’t follow rules, she does her own thing. Queenie’s impulsive behavior causes her to make some bad decisions. She just crashes through life without thinking of the consequences. Kingston is wholesome and thinks everything over carefully before he makes a move. Queenie is fun and easygoing and she helps Kingston enjoy life, while Kingston helps Queenie organize hers. This is an enchanting story with endearing characters. I loved all the banter and fun entertaining characters in this story.
5⭐️
I've read all three books of the All In series and I gotta say that this is my favorite.
Ryan Kingston had made an appearance in book one and more in book two since he's closer to Bishop.
I think out of all the male leads in the series—and although they are all sexy and swoony, I think Ryan takes the cake.
I know most of us have this underlying indulgence to be with a sexy, brash bad boy but in real life we all want to end up with someone straight-laced like Ryan... and who wouldn't? He's the whole package! Queenie is a very lucky girl.
The family dynamic is relatable and the storyline is quite unique from Jake and Queenie, to Hanna's and Ryan's...
And I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one who's wondering—will Jake and Hanna have their own story? It got me quite curious. I hope they'll have their own story. It will definitely be a blast to read about more mature characters finding love i the weirdest of ways in the weirdest of situation.
If you're looking for an overall swoon-worthy hockey romance, then this is the book you need to pick up.
Queenie and King are royalty in my heart! A Secret for a Secret is my favorite in the All In series so far. A great sport romance that introduces you to your new favorite pairing. After Queenie loses her job, she drowns her sorrows and ends up having a one-night stand. Names are exchanged, but she leaves him with a momento and a note, but nothing else. Kingston's entire world turns out to be a lie, so he does what anyone would do, turns to alcohol to numb the pain for a few hours. What he doesn't expect is the one girl who rocked his world, to appear in his life again. Queenie is determined to make her father proud and be the best assistant she can, but her world is turned on its axis when she discovers "Ryan" is really the newest goalie for her the NHL team her dad manages. The one thing Queenie had to agree to was not to date any of the players on the team, so she's adamant about keeping her distance from King, even though their chemistry is off the charts and he's very persistent. This story has minimal drama (ex's and family), plenty of romance, and the best banter! A delightful romantic comedy that you won't be able to put down.
Helena Hunting is an auto buy author for me. Her stories always make me laugh and sigh with happy ever afters.
A Secret for a Secret was another superb story in the All In series.
I immediately fell in love with Ryan Kingston (aka Kingston or King). His straight laced, polo wearing, milk drinking, grandma driving self was so refreshing. I love grumpy heroes with mushy insides but having one that was "mushy" on the outside but wild inside? Fantastic! Bring it on!
King was the perfect person for Queenie. Messed up, reckless, impulsive, all over the place Queenie. He grounded her while she let him free.
Loved the guest appearances of Bishop (he is my favourite of all the All In guys), Violet, Stevie and a few others from past stories. What secondary character did I love the most? Lavender. Oh Lavender! I CANNOT wait to read her story!
Not only does Helena Hunting have fabulous main characters but also outstanding side or secondary characters. Sometimes I feel like I'm there with them..like you are a part of the world she has built.
Looking forward to more from this fantastic author.
I have been anxiously awaiting Ryan Kingston’s story, and A Secret For A Secret was worth every second of the wait. Helena Hunting gave me more than I hoped for in this sweet, sexy, easy-reading opposites-attract romance. King was the team good guy. He’s polite, respectful and level-headed, and he completely endeared himself to me with his milk-drinking and polo-and-khaki-wearing ways. King was full of surprises though, and despite his strait-laced appearance and old-fashioned ways, there was a dirty-talking alpha lurking under those pristinely pressed polos, and Queenie gave him the safe place he needed to let that part of his personality out.
Queenie was the polar opposite of King in every way, and while I adored her sassy spirit, my heart hurt a little for her. On paper, these two didn’t quite match up. Where Queenie was pandemonium, King was peace, yet they defied that logic by actually working spectacularly well together. Her chaos needed his calm, and he needed a woman worthy of that effort from him. He was the only person who really saw beyond her messy exterior to the beautiful, talented, kind woman beneath, and he became her loudest cheerleader. I loved this dynamic, and I loved these two together so much.
Hunting told a captivatingly sweet and sexy story in A Secret For A Secret. I was completely caught up in King and Queenie, and I couldn’t put this book down. My heart raced and ached as these two found their way together, and I loved every minute of their journey to happily ever after. Five smooches from me for A Secret For A Secret by Helena Hunting!
~Danielle Palumbo, Red Cheeks Reads
I just love Helena's books so freaking much! They have the perfect mix of hilarious and sexy and sweet and this one definitely did not disappoint.
I've been so intrigued with King and his super laced up, milk drinking image and I couldn't wait to dive into his book. I feel even more in love with him while reading this book. He's just such a freaking sweetheart!!! I absolutely adore him!!!
Queenie is his polar opposite and that made for hilarious moments, but also, really sweet moments between them. She's kind of unsure of herself and her path and Ryan just wants to help her open her eyes to her talent and everything she has to offer. I absolutely loved watching him stick by her side, even when she didn't think she deserved it.
I absolute loved her relationship with her dad and Ryan's relationship with his crazy family. It was so funny to see how different he was from the rest of his family. Also, anytime you throw Violet in, I will definitely be a happy camper. I was so happy we got to see her and her kids. They are so freaking precious!!!
Ryan and Queenie had some obstacles to overcome, but I loved how even when she tried to hide herself, Ryan stood by her. I loved watching her come into her own and accept herself and really start to see all she has to offer.
Ryan Kingston, you milk drinking, dirty talking good guy, you are the book boyfriend to end all book boyfriends. Don’t let his buy the book self fool you, Ryan Kingston is still a sexy alpha through and through who will have you totally swooning.
After reading about King in the first two books in this series I was eagerly anticipating his story and Helena Hunting did not disappoint. Queenie was the perfect women to bring out King out of his shell and King was just the steady guy she needed to ground and support her. I adored Queenie. She funny, adventurous, loving, and sweet with a whirlwind of a personality.
This book has everything—humor, the perfect mix of sweet and steamy, and just a tiny bit of angst. Absolutely loved this book!
The King and his Queenie have finally arrived!
The third in the "All In" series focuses on Ryan Kingston "King" - the milk drinking, clean cut, all-around nice guy goalie for the Seattle hockey team. He's the rule follower, the one who is always in control...until the one night he gets completely drunk and takes home the girl he met at the bar.
Queenie has just moved back home after losing her job, and is living with her father. After a night at the bar where she starts sucking back vodka martinis, and goes home with King. She sneaks out before he wakes up, and leaves him a parting gift and a "bye thanks for last-night" farewell on a post-it note.
Fast forward a few weeks, and Queenie arrives with her father to start work as his assistant, and discovers that her boy-scout one-night-stand from the bar is none other than the team Goalie!
The two have some smokin' chemistry, and try to be professional and be friends, but of course, that doesn't work. The title of this book is perfect - there's several secrets, his, hers, again hers, theirs, and a few others. As with others in this series, it's an absolutely fun read, and one that I truly hopes continues. This one has the Pucked cross-over of Violet, and some insights into their kids. Again, with the others, this one leaves open the possibility of another book featuring Queenie's father, Jake. I'm not even going to hint at his potential love interest, but it's a good one if it pans out!
Here's the thing - when Helena Hunting writes about hockey men and their lady loves I'm basically trash for it, so I went in knowing that I would probably enjoy this book. I was not prepared to love Kingston and Queenie this much though! Lance and Randy have been my favorite hockey players from HH so far now Kingston is in a 3 way with them. The way that he loves and reasons and perseveres is astoundingly beautiful. So many times we read books where the hero has doubts for whatever reasons but Kingston is so refreshingly good and wholesome yet sexy... he's a freaking unicorn! And I really loved Queenie too. Her relationship with her mom is heartbreaking, but I loved her relationship with her dad and I hope the hint that we get about a possible romance for him will be the subject of HH's next book. I loved all the cameos, and the kids, and the epilogue - I just loved everything! 5 out of 5 wine glasses.
I adored Helena Hunting's "A Secret for a Secret," book #3 of the All In series. I didn't find it to be quite as laugh out loud funny as the second book of the series ("A Favor for a Favor"), but it was still very amusing, and definitely heartwarming.
The male leads of the first two books in this series, Rook and Bishop, were wonderful, but I think book #3's Ryan "King" Kingston may be my new favorite. He has absolutely earned a place on my top book boyfriends of all time list! King reminded me a bit of the guys on those insurance commercials that warn against turning into your parents after buying a house because he seemed prematurely middle-aged or old in some of his habits, but I had to laugh every time one of those aspects of his personality was revealed. In general, King was very sweet, thoughtful, responsible, and cautious in the ways you'd want in a romantic partner (aside from his driving; that would have driven me crazy!), but when he was alone with Queenie and finally lost control, it was electrifying.
Queenie was also a wonderful lead character: very funny and sweet, as well as much smarter, more talented, and more competent than she believed herself to be. Thank goodness she had her dad, Jake, when she was growing up because her mom was awful, and Queenie needed someone to encourage her instead of putting her down. I loved watching her finally overcome her self-confidence issues (with Jake and King's help) so that she could pursue her dream career. I also enjoyed the sweet friendship she developed with Alex and Violet's daughter, Lavender, which showed not only what a great therapist Queenie would be, but also what a great mom.
In addition, I thought King and Queenie's relationship grew at just the right pace, and they made a perfect match because he really did seem like the calm to her storm. I loved how King always encouraged, supported, and stood up for Queenie, and she teased him into not letting his life become too routine or boring. I also appreciated that she didn't try to change him just for the sake of change. So what if he wanted to wear khakis and a white polo shirt every day? It wasn't hurting anyone!
Finally, Queenie's dad, Jake, was pretty awesome, and I would love for him to get a story of his own at some point in the future. I have a pretty good suspicion as to whom he might be matched with based on the events of this book, but don't want to speculate here so as not to spoil things for those who have not yet read it.
In any event, "A Secret for a Secret" was yet another excellent addition to Helena Hunting's body of work, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
*ARC provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR. All opinions expressed are my own.
SO GOOD! I am really sad to see this series come to an end - each book has been exceptional in its own way, and King's story did not disappoint. A Favor for a Favor is one of my favorite books of the year, so I already knew that I was going to adore King when it came time for his story - and that is definitely the case. He is the most polite, caring, dirty talking, gentleman that I've read about, and Queenie complements him perfectly with all her chaos. It was so refreshing to read about a genuinely good guy who has never been a playboy, wants a relationship, and respects the woman he's pursuing. King and Queenie's relationship might've developed in a way that's vastly different than King expected, but it helped loosen up this otherwise rigid guy.
The story follows Ryan Kingston, aka King, a hockey player who is known as the serious, steady guy. He drives like a grandma, drinks milk with every meal, and always seems to be wearing khakis. But when a revelation about his family leaves him reeling, King has a night where he just needs to let loose. Enter Queenie, the, well... Queen of Chaos, if you will. At 24, she's moved back in with her father and has taken a job as his assistant. When King and Queenie meet at a bar, they're both looking to drown their sorrows but wind up getting more than either one bargained for. After one steamy night together, they part ways... only to reunite a few weeks later when King realizes that his one and only hookup is the daughter of his boss.
I loved the chemistry between these two - the fact that they get dirty together in the first chapter means that there's a level of sexuality to the entire story, which is unexpected given King's personality. He is such a gentleman that it was nice to see him opening up and getting a little wild. The book reads quickly, making it easy to devour - mixed in with the likable characters and sexual tension are some seriously funny moments and touches of angst. It stays relatively light the whole time, making for a fun, sexy read and though there are appearances from characters in past books, this easily reads as a standalone. All in all, it's just an entertaining read and I am so sad that there won't be more from the series. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC via Social Butterfly PR and am voluntarily leaving a review of this sexy sports romance.
3.5 Stars
I loved the first couple books, and I liked this one, but not nearly as much. I didn’t love either Queenie or King, so I wasn’t as connected. My favorite parts were with the other couples and especially Lavender. Still an fun way to spend a day in quarantine. And I’ll definitely look for the next book.
I absolutely with all my heart adore Kingston!!! He is so wholesome and so amazingly likeable. I don’t think there was even a second where I didn’t love him like mad. I just love a man who is so put together in life but then he meets the one for him and his inner growly twin comes roaring out. I’m a legit fool for this boy and his sweetness.
Queenie is a tornado packed into a tiny person and I just really really want to solve all her problems, okay?? I wished someone was there to make her understand that she was worthy before all of the mess that happened to her. I wish she trusted herself more. It just broke my heart and I was so happy to see her recover and fall in love with herself.
I love Helena’s skill of making you laugh like a loon in one chapter and then making you an emotional mess in another. She really is an unparalleled force in romcoms and it’s amazing to be able to read her beautiful stories.
From the moment the reader meets Ryan “King” Kingston and Queenie you feel the palpable tension and connection. King has interested me from the onset, and he made me fall so hard for him in this book. The secret he revealed was shocking, his reaction was unbelievable, and I knew that he would react differently at some point. Queenie’s secret wasn’t as shocking, but I still needed to understand why she felt the way she did. Once they realized they couldn’t be together, they tried to stay away, but love can’t be denied.
I really liked how strong and reliable King was. He saw the true beauty of Queenie and never let her wilt. I loved the hilarious parts and the heartfelt parts are equally poignant. Queenie’s life isn’t where she wants it to be, and unfortunately the one person who should support her has left her high and dry and still finds ways to chip at her self esteem. Her one huge mistake comes to the limelight and could cause her new life to come crashing down around her.
The chemistry and connection these two shared was wonderful. Whether they can find their way through the darkness remains to be seen. I loved everything about this book and I need to find myself a Ryan. I know you won’t be able to put this book down, I know I couldn’t. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
A Secret for A Secret is the third book in the All In series by the hilarious and talented Helena Hunting. This is definitely my favorite book in the series and that's saying something since I really love the first two. But there was just something about Ryan Kingston that I could see in the other books. He is straight-laced, buttoned up, and not a rule breaker. And I knew his story was going to be good. I didn't think he was going to meet someone who would literally mess him up, but I knew his calm would be just what she needed and I was right! King meets a woman in a bar after they've both had a rough time. They drink too much and end up going back to his place which is very uncharacteristic of King. It's also something Queenie never does so she's gone in the morning. Only to show up six weeks later as the assistant to general manager. And his daughter. Oops! They realize isn't not a good idea to hook up again, but they want to be friends. King has never wanted a woman the way he wants Queenie. After spending more time with her, he's knows he needs more and he wants to do it the right way. Ask her dad for permission. Take her on proper dates. Hold out for a while longer. Queenie is spontaneous. She doesn't want to wait to get King back into bed. She wants him too much. Once they turn up the heat, it is on! They are so hot together that I was literally fanning myself. He may be always dressed perfectly, never saying a bad thing about anyone and never losing his temper, but once he's with his woman and the clothes come off, he's the dirty talking alpha she can't resist. They have their obstacles and both of their pasts try to break them up, but they are the perfect match and they can get through anything together. I loved this story. So. Much. I loved that King was always put together, drives like a grandpa because he wants to be safe, still drinks milk and is kind and polite. It was such a breath of fresh air to read about a hero who wasn't a jerk. Not even for a second! He never put Queenie down for her messiness or tried to change her. He just loved her for who she was and loved the crazy things about her. He didn't want her to be something she's not, he just wanted her to be his. Queenie is young and still trying to find her way. Just because she's a little chaotic doesn't mean she's not smart and talented. She just needs to find her way. King was the perfect calmness to her chaos and she's his perfect queen. I really, really need to know Jake's story!
Adored King!
"Kind of like the way addicts always say "Just one more hit", I think Ryan Kingston could be my drug of choice."
Ryan Kingston AKA King is a Boy-Scout rule-follower with a moral compass that points due north. Until one night, after finding out a deep family secret, he throws caution to the wind and gets drunk and ends up having a one-night stand. Weeks later, he comes face-to-face with his unforgettable fling. She turns out to be the GM's daughter and off-limits.
"She's a tornado, and half the time I don't know what to do with her, but I still want to get caught up in her vortex."
Queenie is a hot mess. She's a little bit wild and struggling to get her life on a path where the future is clear. When she realises that King was her hookup, she tries to keep things platonic. However, the chemistry between them is sizzling and undeniable. She worries that they're too different and there's also her dad to contend with. When they overcome initial obstacles, her messy past comes back to haunt her.
"You make me want things I've only thought about in the abstract until now."
This story was so much fun! Ryan is so straitlaced and by-the-book but, in the bedroom, he is off-the-hook hot!! *fans self* He's crazy attractive, protective, and just so good through and through. I fell for him hard! Queenie - bless her heart - tries so hard. Full of insecurities and somewhat low self-esteem, my heart hurt for her. She had so much to give and was so full of life and good intentions. I was so happy for her to find her King. This was such a fantastic story!
I’ve really enjoyed this series and I was super excited to read King’s book! I mean, who wouldn’t want to read about our favorite milk drinking Boy Scout?!
King was everything I thought he’d be and more. I wasn’t expecting him to have that kind of feisty side, but was so happy when it came out. I loved how fierce he was with Queenie and how protective he was of her when people were treating her badly. He recognized her worth and stopped at nothing to make sure she realized it. He was her ride or die and I loved that about him.
Queenie was great, as well! She was going through a tough time and I loved how she handled everything. The fact that she struggled made her very relatable because we’ve all been there. One of my favorite things about her was how she accepted all of King. Honestly? His driving would absolutely drive me crazy (no pun intended), but she embraced it and loved him for it. The two of them were perfect for each other.
The storyline itself was really great and very well thought out. The only part of the storyline I wanted more of was Queenie’s mom. I don’t feel like that part was complete. However, it didn’t effect the overall experience.
Yes, I definitely recommend this book! Especially if you’ve loved the others. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that a certain someone gets their own book with a certain someone else, but time will tell!!
Also, I wouldn’t hate a future book about Lavender and Kody... just sayin.
4.5 stars!!
We were lucky enough to get an arc. To be honest I was scared to read this one because I love Favor soooooo much. But have no fear Helena did it again.
📚🍷👯♀️
This book we finally got Kingstons story. You know the rule follower, the khaki wearing confront your problem Kingston. I loved him so much. So so so much. I wasn’t sure if I would but he stole my heart. Queenie was just as lovable. Hot mess express meets calm. What a couple.
“He’s the calm and I’m the storm.”
📚🍷👯♀️
Helena has the ability to suck you in from page one. Which is dangerous .... because you won’t be able to put it down. Why did I think I could read a bit in the morning before starting work or school? Just be aware that you will ignore responsibilities to continue with reading.
If you have not read this series yet... I don’t know what you are waiting for. It’s addicting. With laugh out loud moments and some serious swooning in between. Characters that make you want to jump right in to the book.
Helena .... can we be best friends? I love your mind 😘
“She’s my raging rapids, and I’m her calm lake at dawn.”
📚🍷👯♀️
Thank you netgalley and socialbutterfly_pr for the arc.
hank you to Helena and the teams at Montlake, NetGalley, and SocialButterflyPR for the advance reader copy of A Secret for a Secret, the third standalone in the All In series.
Helena Hunting is the queen of hockey romance! So I was over the moon to see her write this hockey romance trope, the relationship blocked by team dynamics as the female love interest is someone’s daughter. In A Secret for a Secret’s case, Queenie is the general manager’s daughter, but that does not stop a beautiful relationship that blooms between her and the team’s goalie, Ryan Kingston.
Characters: Queenie and Ryan Kingston are the main characters of A Secret for a Secret. I wanna start with the boy scout himself Ryan was adorable, sweet, and a breath of fresh air for the genre. The vast majority of the time when it comes to hockey romance it is the male player who is quite the hotheaded alpha. Ryan instead is a rule follower, who drives like he is always on a driving test. I am biased as a rule follower myself, I loved Ryan! While Queenie is the chaotic, artistic, lively opposite for Ryan to be attracted to. She is such a strong female lead, a girl all of us women won’t help but relate to in some way. Her insecurities are in line with many women and watching her self-esteem and confidence grow over the course of the story was heartwarming.
Setting: Seattle is the setting for the story, as Ryan plays for the new Seattle franchise team and Queenie’s father is their general manager. I am a PNW girl so I have a soft spot in my heart for Seattle, I wish Helena would allow it to shine just a bit more outside of the fact it was raining frequently haha. What I love often about how Helena sets her books though is that they are surrounded by the team, in their homes, in the arena, in the box the WAGS watch the games from. I absolutely adore the close-up picture of these hockey player’s lives that she paints with the setting.
Romance: Gotta love when that hookup becomes more right? What a fun trope to watch a beautiful romance bloom from. The depth that these two fell hard and fast for each other brought me to tears. To read from Queenie’s perspective leant a view on how a relationship can help you see the best in yourself and help you to appreciate your own worthiness. Maybe I connect with this a little too hard, I feel very similar in how my relationship strengthens me and has helped me with a range of insecurities from body image issues to being overly shy. For Ryan love allowed him to task risks, to go outside his comfort zone and to ultimately stand up for himself and what he most wants in life. His character development on this front was marvellous and the book delivers a sweet payoff for his arc pertaining to his more rebellious side. Queenie and Ryan bring out the best in each other and for as many times Queenie describes herself as a chaotic storm, a hurricane in Ryan’s life. Ryan counters that with simply displaying the nature of their relationship of one of jovial laughter and a trust that can hold even the darkest of secrets.
A Secret for a Secret receives five out of five stars.