Release with Review:: Two Minutes for Holding by S.L. Sterling

Title: Two Minutes for Holding

Series: Vancouver Dominators Book #3

Author: S.L. Sterling

Genre: Sports Romance; Contemporary Romance

Tropes: Hockey Romance; Teammates Younger Sister; Surprise Pregnancy; Cinnamon Roll Hero; One Night Stand Revenge

Release Date: March 25, 2025

Cover Design: Thunderstruck Cover Design

Knox stood across from me, anger in his eyes, his right hand in a fist ready to hit me. In that moment, as I stared at him trying to figure out what to say before he hit me, I wished I’d never walked into that little dive bar.

Actually, that wasn’t true because that was the night that changed my life forever.

That was the night I saved Knox’s little sister, Peyton, from making what I was certain was a huge mistake I’d figure she’d regret for the rest of her life.

We all had a code among the players on the team. We all looked after one another, and that included family members. So, when I saw some guy hitting on Peyton, I stepped in. I pretended to be her boyfriend to get rid of the guy who’d been hitting on her and when she turned those big hazel eyes on me things didn’t stop there. I bought her drinks, let her vent out her frustrations about the fight she’d just had with her brother and then one thing led to another, and she ended up wrapped up in my sheets.

A few months later, the memory of her and that night remains fresh in my mind and soon she is all I can think about. Thankfully, I get to see her again at the season’s end barbeque. Armed with good intentions, that is when I find out everything is about to change in not only my life but hers, including my friendship with her brother.

The guys on the team had always told me love would hit me when I least expected it, either that or I’d get a girl in trouble. I just never believed they would both happen at the same time.

 

Review:

So Peyton's immaturity drove me nuts. Its like if you told her to go left for a bucket full of treasure, she'd go right and end up with a buck full of crap just to spite you. Knox was patient, kind, and wanted to take care of her. Peyton lies and makes up reality in her head to suit the situation. She gets herself into trouble over and over then gets upset when her family is like, here we go again. I did not like how harsh her brother was with her, especially since he is such a caring guy, but sometimes tough love wins. Thankfully Knox took his time with Peyton and made her realize that honesty and growing up is what needed to happen for a future. 

S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario. She now lives in Northern Ontario Canada and is married to her best friend and soul mate and their two dogs. 

An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born. 

When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors on her e-reader. Her favorite authors include Kendall Ryan, Vi Keeland, Penelope Ward, Lauren Blakely, Alessandra Torre and Willow Winters. 

In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.

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Release with Review:: Buried Dreams by Natasha Madison

BURIED DREAMS

Natasha Madison

Release Date: March 14 

Blurb:

Everleigh

One night changed my whole life.

After the truth about that night came out, I left, taking my broken heart with me.

I knew the past was waiting to slice me open again.

But I was left with no choice but to go back.

Feelings and old emotions are like dandelions; no matter how many times you pull them out or try to get rid of them, they refuse to go away.

And he was that for me.

My everything until he was my nothing.

Brock

My father taught me about honor and integrity.

And in one split second, I ruined it all.

I lost the only dream I ever had and everything I ever wanted.

But I had no choice.

I tried to move on with my life.

I put all my focus on my daughter, never expecting to see the one woman I’d loved and lost.

They say time heals old wounds.

They were wrong.

Scars left from the past are easy to reopen.

I just hope I can survive the pain all over again.

Buy Link:

https://books2read.com/KUBuriedDreamsNM 

Available in KU 

Review:

So yea, it dropped and I read for the next 3 hours, didn't care about the house or any responsibilities, I just had to read this story. This series is just so good. We are taken back to that fateful night, where so many things happened and we are getting all the sides. Everleigh and Brock were actually a couple that night, totally in love, building a future. That accident, it changed people. I personally know how Everleigh feels in this story, as I also had an ex very quickly have a child with the new person in his life. It's a hard pill to swallow. I wasn't a big fan of the hate love making, like the quick, I hate you, but I am going to have unprotected sex with you even though you have been gone for 9 years, but the rest of the story, it was amazing. The relationship built and the communication, finding one another and figuring out what happened and what was going through their minds during that tragic time, it was emotional. Loved it. 

Meet Natasha Madison:

When her nose isn’t buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she’s in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It’s a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn’t listen to her…

Connect with Natasha Madison:

https://linktr.ee/natashamauthor 

Release with Review:: FORMULA CHANCE by Sawyer Bennett

 

FORMULA CHANCE 

Sawyer Bennett

Release Date: March 11 

Blurb:

In the second book of New York Times Bestselling Author Sawyer Bennett’s Race Fever series, she turns up the heat when a familiar name looks to shake up the world of formula racing. Buckle up for this heart stopping, second chance ride in Formula Chance.

Nash Sinclair abandoned the world of formula racing after a deadly crash left him injured and on a long road to recovery, both physically and mentally. Even prior to the crash Nash was healing in another way, putting together the pieces of a broken heart. They say time heals all wounds and when Brienne Norcross, owner of the newly acquired Titans Racing team approaches him about a job, he decides it might just be time to reclaim the life he once loved.

Bexley Toliver just joined the Titans’ team as their chief race strategy engineer. As a woman working in a male-centric sport, Bex is no stranger to a man’s eyes on her. Whether it’s in silent awe, not-so-silent disgust, or somewhere in between, Bexley has earned her way. But there is one set of eyes that Bex hasn’t seen in years and when Nash Sinclair walks into the conference room for a team meeting, old memories are hard to ignore. As the heat between them becomes all-consuming, they are unable to resist the temptation to fall once again.

Bex and Nash’s history is…complicated. Young love that turned into the promise of forever crashed and burned long before the race that ended Nash’s career. Years apart dulled the pain of their failed union but some things aren’t meant to be forgotten, no matter how hard one tries. When the same issues that broke them apart re-emerge and spin them full-speed toward a barricade, Bex and Nash need to make a decision—hit the brakes and walk away or race forward to their happily ever after.

Buy Link:

https://geni.us/FormulaChance

Available in KU

Review:

I am a sucker for second changes and a man who knows he needs to take full advantage of it. This story was interesting, especially having a strong woman in a male dominated industry. The story was just right, not too fast, not an insta back together thing, but they took the time to get to know who each other is now after their time apart. It was another quick read from this author, as I couldn't put it down.

Meet Sawyer Bennett:

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).

Connect with Sawyer Bennett:

https://geni.us/SawyerBennett

Release: Crossroads of Love by Kris Abbott

Title: Crossroads of Love

Series: Hicks Creek #1

Author: Kris Abbott

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Tropes: Small Town/Slow Burn/Alpha Male

Forbidden Romance/Second Chance

Release Date: March 4, 2025

BLURB

Returning to my small hometown was never part of the plan—but life has a way of forcing your hand.

I’m Gavin Wells—wealthy, divorced, and carrying enough baggage to fill this tiny town. My father’s funeral should’ve been a quick in-and-out, but nothing about coming home is ever that simple. Especially when it means facing her.

Lena Marshall—my brother’s widow, the girl I once loved, and the one I’ve never really let go. Seeing her again stirs up feelings we both thought we’d buried. But with the past comes secrets, and my family’s skeletons are clawing their way out, threatening to shatter Lena’s trust—and her heart—all over again.

Walking away would be easier. Safer. But I’ve spent too long running from my demons. Now, I have to prove I’m not the man who runs, but the one who fights—for her, for us, and for the second chance we both deserve.

ADD TO GOODREADS

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

UNIVERSAL

Free in Kindle Unlimited

COMING SOON

Releasing May 6

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

UNIVERSAL

Releasing July 8

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

UNIVERSAL

AUTHOR BIO

Kris Abbott is a contemporary romance author who thrives on crafting stories brimming with passion, twists, and irresistible brooding alpha heroes. Based in Northern Canada, Kris is an unapologetic romantic with a penchant for weaving unforgettable characters—flawed, raw, and deeply human—that will leave you breathless. When she’s not dreaming up her next plot, Kris loves to travel, often finding inspiration for her novels in the beauty and culture of her destinations. Whether on the road or at home, Kris delights in creating stories that stir your heart and keep you turning the pages late into the night.

AUTHOR LINKS

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

TIKTOK

BOOKBUB

NEWSLETTER

Release with Review: Another Powerplay by Alexa Padgett

ANOTHER POWERPLAY

Alexa Padgett

Release Date: March 3

He's a fortress of ice with a heart locked away. She's the oncology nurse who might just melt his defenses. When fate throws them together, sparks fly on and off the ice.

Lennon Cruz, star defenseman for the Houston Wildcatters, thought he had his life figured out. But when Vivian Lee's hat lands in his lap, everything changes. As she cares for his ailing mother, Lennon finds himself drawn to the compassionate nurse who sees beyond his tough exterior.

Together, they champion a cause close to Lennon's scarred heart—reuniting service dogs with their military handlers. But as their connection deepens, buried secrets threaten to shatter their fragile chance at happiness. Can Lennon and Vivian overcome their haunted pasts and open their hearts to love? Or will the ghosts of yesterday destroy their shot at forever?

Get ready for a heart-pounding romance that will leave you breathless. One-click now and immerse yourself in this unputdownable story of healing, hope, and the power of second chances!

Warning: Contains a brooding hockey player with a heart of gold, a fierce nurse who won't take no for an answer, loyal service dogs, and a love so hot it might just melt the ice.

Grab Your Copy!

Amazon https://amzn.to/4hVNtJS

Apple https://apple.co/4bnxLEX

Kobo https://tinyurl.com/286vzvsj

Nook https://tinyurl.com/2bdvsy5w

Google Play https://tinyurl.com/zm2dhr8f

Review:

Well this series just continues to grab my heart and make me fall in love with this team. Lennon and Vivian meet and fall pretty hard for each other but they are torn apart. When fate (and a little help from his friends) steps in, and they meet again, they continue to feel all those emotions. They know they are met for each other but they have a lot of work to do. I love this series because its real life, people hurt each other and people have to figure out love. It's not always easy. 

Meet Alexa Padgett:

USA Today bestseller Alexa Padgett’s books have garnered accolades from prestigious organizations, including Kirkus Reviews, National Indie Excellence Awards, and Publishers Weekly.

Alexa spent a good part of her youth traveling. From Budapest to Belize, Calgary to Coober Pedy, she soaked in the myriad smells, sounds, and feels of these gorgeous places, wishing she could live in them all–at least for a while. And she does in her books.

She lives in New Mexico with her husband, children, and Great Pyrenees pup, Ash. When not writing, schlepping, or volunteering, she can be found in her tiny kitchen, channeling her inner Barefoot Contessa.

To find out about Alexa’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter https://alexapadgett.com/newsletter/!

To learn more about Alexa Padgett & her books, visit here!

Connect with Alexa Padgett:https://alexapadgett.com/contact/

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Release with Review:: Love on the Edge by Sara McClaflin

LOVE ON THE EDGE

Sara McClaflin

Release Date: March 2

AVAILABLE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED

Welcome to the Sexy as Sin series, where badass female athletes don't mind working up a good sweat on or off the field.

Valeria Blaze

The Olympics aren’t just my dream—they’re my obsession. Every jump, every spin, every sacrifice has been for one goal: gold. I don’t drink. I don’t date. And I sure as hell don’t make reckless decisions.

Until him.

Running into Ethan Crosse—the rink’s rugged, maddeningly handsome new maintenance man—wasn’t part of the plan. He’s gruff, complicated, and far too good at making me forget the walls I’ve built to protect myself. One impulsive night should have been enough to get him out of my system.

But now he’s everywhere.

I should be focusing on skating, but the closer we get, the harder it is to keep my walls from crumbling. He’s everything I don’t have time for. But he might be the one thing I can’t let go.

Ethan Crosse

I’ve learned to live for two things: my daughter and my family. When my wife walked out, she left more than a broken marriage—she left bills, responsibility, and the life we’d built together. Taking on a second job at the rink was a way to keep us afloat, even if it meant sleepless nights and long days.

Then I ran into her.

Valeria Blaze is fire and ice all wrapped up in a dangerous package. One night with her wasn’t enough, but I can’t risk letting her into my messy world. Not when she’s focused on something bigger than me. Not when I’m still picking up the pieces of my life.

But the more I try to push her away, the closer we get. Now I’m not sure if I’m ready to risk it all for her—or if I even have a choice.

Grab Your Copy!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJCCC6QQ

Review:

This new author wrote a wonderful story. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and watch them figure out life together. Their chemistry was amazing and the story flowed so well, the book flew by. I really enjoyed a strong female athlete with life goals. 

Meet Sara McClaflin:

Sara McClaflin, a dedicated author of romance, crafts tales that are not only heart-melting but also delve into the delicate facets of humanity. Having spent the past few years as an avid reader, Sara transitioned from writing book reviews to creating her own narratives. Her passion for romance, in all its diverse forms, shines through as she weaves stories that resonate with readers.

Residing on the vibrant west coast with her husband and beloved dog, Sara McClaflin is surrounded by the inspiration of nature and the love of her family. In her world, there is no such thing as too many books or an overfilled "want to read" list, as each story unfolds new possibilities and adventures.

To find out about Sara McClaflin’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter here

For more information on Sara McClaflin and her books visit: https://linktr.ee/saramcclaflin

Connect with Sara McClaflin:

hello@authorsaramcclaflin.com

https://laylahagen.com/contact-layla/

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