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A Lie for a Lie

Book 1 in the series:All In

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you're a sucker for hockey romances with just the right mix of sweet, swoony moments and laugh-out-loud humor, "A Lie for a Lie" brings the goods. Fans of the Pucked series will love reconnecting with familiar faces, while newcomers can jump right into this opposites-attract, second-chance love story. The dual perspectives of Rook, the NHL star looking for normalcy, and Lainey, the brainy but awkward animal researcher, offer plenty of charm and heartfelt vulnerability. If you enjoy low-stakes drama, quirky banter, a light secret-baby trope, and warm found-family vibes, this one's for you.

Who May Not Like This Book:

This book might miss the mark for readers who prefer more realistic or mature characters - Lainey's extreme naivete and quirky awkwardness can be grating, and Rook's past as a stereotypical sports hero might feel recycled from other romances. Some found the humor a little forced, the plotlines predictable, and the "secret baby" reveal underwhelming. Plus, if you’re looking for depth, unpredictable twists, or can't tolerate the 'communication mishaps' trope, you may find yourself eye-rolling or skimming chapters.

A breezy, feel-good sports romance that mixes sweetness and steam, but it’s decidedly more for fans of fluffy, trope-filled love stories than those seeking originality or emotional complexity.

About:

A Lie for a Lie by Helena Hunting tells the story of Lainey, a young woman working on her master's thesis focusing on aquatic animals, who meets RJ Bowman, the Captain of Chicago's NHL team, during a turbulent flight to Kodiak, Alaska. Despite RJ's initial lie about his identity, the two form a connection during their time in Alaska, leading to a magical few weeks together. However, their budding romance faces challenges as secrets and unexpected reunions come to light, ultimately testing their relationship and commitment to each other.

The book is described as a light and entertaining romance with a mix of humor, sweet moments, and minimal conflict. The story features likable adult characters dealing with real-life issues such as anxiety and trauma, set against the backdrop of Alaska's scenic beauty. With elements of second chance romance, sports romance, and a touch of drama, A Lie for a Lie offers a heartwarming and engaging read that explores themes of love, trust, and personal growth.

Characters:

The characters depict a professional athlete grappling with his past and an academically intelligent yet socially naive protagonist, navigating trust issues within their evolving relationship.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is characterized by humor and a dual point of view, though opinions differ on its effectiveness, with some finding it clumsy or overly cheesy.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on a second chance romance intertwined with a surprise pregnancy, featuring themes of miscommunication and hidden identities between the main characters, all set against the picturesque backdrops of Alaska and Chicago.

Setting:

Set primarily in Alaska and Chicago, the setting provides rich backdrops that enhance the characters' personal and romantic journeys.

Pacing:

The pacing blends light-hearted and serious moments, utilizing flashbacks to develop backstories, resulting in a steady flow with minimal conflict.
“Uhhhh . . . slim to none?” My sister’s voice crackles through the car speakers on a scoff. “Why are you going to a birthday party for toddlers anyway? Is this some kind of new dating strategy? Like y...

Notes:

Lainey is studying a master's degree in marine biology, focusing on dolphin and whale mating.
Rook, the hero, is a former playboy hockey player now trying to settle down.
The story features a secret baby trope where Lainey has a child with Rook but hasn't told him.
The plot alternates between present-day and flashbacks of Rook's past in Alaska where he meets Lainey.
The couple's initial meeting is very unconventional, starting with a clumsy encounter on a plane.
Rook's real name is RJ and he keeps his hockey player identity a secret from Lainey during their initial romance.
The story takes place across various locations including Alaska, Chicago, and Seattle.
Humor plays a significant role in the story, although it received mixed reviews from readers.
The book includes cameos from characters in the author's previous Pucked series.
The book has been described as a light-hearted romance with minimal conflict and a happy ending.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of anxiety, potential triggering situations related to mental health, and a surprise pregnancy.

Has Romance?

Romance plays a significant role in the book, driving much of the plot and character development.

From The Publisher:

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series comes a romantic comedy about instant attraction, second chances, and not-so-little white lies.

Sometimes I need an escape from the demands, the puck bunnies, and the notoriety that come with being an NHL team captain. I just want to be a normal guy for a few weeks. So when I leave Chicago for some peace and quiet, the last thing I expect is for a gorgeous woman to literally fall into my lap on a flight to Alaska. Even better, she has absolutely no idea who I am.

Lainey is the perfect escape from my life. My plan for seclusion becomes a monthlong sex fest punctuated with domestic bliss. But it ends just as abruptly as it began. When I'm called away on a family emergency, I realize too late that I have no way to contact Lainey.

A year later, a chance encounter throws Lainey and me together again. But I still have a lie hanging over my head, and Lainey's keeping secrets of her own. With more than lust at stake, the truth may be our game changer. more

Ratings (26)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (12)
Liked It (10)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (42):

Read It (29)
Want To Read (11)
Not Interested (2)
 
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