Always Earned, Never Given

This was a great sports romance with just a bit of suspense.

I really loved Annabelle. She is strong and independent and very devoted to her family. I loved that she was a ballet dancer.

Declan was amazing in too. In many ways he was your typical quarterback, but then in other ways he was a wonderful family guy. I lived his family relationships so much.

I also loved the romance in this book. I love that Dec actually had to work for it. I also loved that he was so good with her brother. I swooned every time he did something for him or put his needs first.

The suspense part of the plot gave the book just a little extra to keep the pages turning. I'll admit I figured it out, but it didn't detract from me enjoying the book.

This book was quite steamy. Be forewarned.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Quite a steamy and dramatic read. I loved the romance and didn’t care how predictable it was. I think that’s what made it a nice read.

I knew Belle and Declan's story would be special, and Always Earned, Never Given didn't disappoint! It's one of my top romance reads for 2021.

"She doesn't realize all the best games are won in inches, not yards, and I'm gonna earn this win inch by inch."

The baller and the ballerina ... Declan sets his sights on Belle from their first meeting. He quickly figures out Belle won't fall in love with him easily or fast. After the death of her parents, Belle thinks she only has room in her life for her younger brother, Tommy, and her dance studio. Football is a game of inches, and Declan will have to show Belle inch by inch that she is his endgame.

Declan is the ideal book boyfriend! This football star is patient, cocky but not arrogant, alpha but not overbearing, protective, and genuinely nice. I loved the way he recognizes that Belle and Tommy are a package deal. He establishes a separate and distinct relationship with Tommy. Their relationship is heartwarming.

I liked that Belle and Declan are equals. As a former elite ballerina, she understands the media pressure that Declan is under and how hard he must work to stay on top. Declan knows that Belle needs a partner that can help lighten her load, and he's determined to help her in any way that he can.

This group of found family in this series continues to be a favorite. Belle considers all of the ladies part of her tribe, and they are there for her. They push her to see beyond her comfort zone and encourage her to take a risk on Declan. The Kings of Kroydon have each others' backs, and the joking banter between them always makes me laugh (those text conversations!).

While reading Always Earned, Never Given, I had a constant smile on my face, laughed out loud several times, and was just touched by the specialness of Belle and Declan. I'm looking forward to reading Bash's book next!!! The Kings of Kroydon Hills world is a great place to visit and never fails to put me in a good mood.


I received an early copy of this book. This voluntary review reflects my honest, unbiased opinion.