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Colorado Storm #2
Make The Play
A frenemies to lovers, fake dating hockey romance
Chase
I may or may not have been in love with Zoe Carlson for years, she just doesn’t know it.
To her, I’m an arrogant, insufferable defenseman. Her favorite headache. A guy who flirts because he likes to rile her up, who pushes her buttons for fun. The jokester.
And maybe I was.
Until the night I finally kissed her. Until the night I finally had her. Until the morning she walked away like it meant nothing.
Now, she’s mine—at least in the public eye. A PR stunt. A media play. Something I’m supposed to fake.
But when she lands herself in real danger?
Game over.
And if she thinks there’s anything fake about that, she’s about to learn that when it comes to her, I’ll always make the play.
-----
Make The Play is the second book in the Colorado Storm hockey series of interconnected stand-alones, and features the following :
Pro hockey player x PR exec | Fake Dating | Frenemies to lovers | She's grumpy to no-one except him | ONS | An age-gap that's not a big deal but she makes it one | Plenty of spice | Plenty of banter | Found family
Chase
I may or may not have been in love with Zoe Carlson for years, she just doesn’t know it.
To her, I’m an arrogant, insufferable defenseman. Her favorite headache. A guy who flirts because he likes to rile her up, who pushes her buttons for fun. The jokester.
And maybe I was.
Until the night I finally kissed her. Until the night I finally had her. Until the morning she walked away like it meant nothing.
Now, she’s mine—at least in the public eye. A PR stunt. A media play. Something I’m supposed to fake.
But when she lands herself in real danger?
Game over.
And if she thinks there’s anything fake about that, she’s about to learn that when it comes to her, I’ll always make the play.
-----
Make The Play is the second book in the Colorado Storm hockey series of interconnected stand-alones, and features the following :
Pro hockey player x PR exec | Fake Dating | Frenemies to lovers | She's grumpy to no-one except him | ONS | An age-gap that's not a big deal but she makes it one | Plenty of spice | Plenty of banter | Found family
455 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2025
304 people are currently reading
1753 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
June 6, 2025
Thank you so much to Luna Literary and author Hailey Rodger for the opportunity to read this ARC 💕
FMC - Zoe: 5 🌟
MMC - Chade: ♾️ 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
LIKES: This was such a fun read! The banter between Chase and Zoe was top-tier and had me giggling constantly. The spice was immaculate, with Chase being one hell of a dirty talker 😉 His devotion to her warms my heart, and he, without a doubt, makes the book boyfriend list. And Zoe is a wonderful character, knows just how to keep Chase on his toes :p But she's also very strong and independent, experiences trauma but faces it head on and fights her way through it. These two characters were perfect for each other, and together they make a beautiful love story ❤️
DISLIKES: There were a couple lines in the book that made me think, "A guy would NEVER say this," where it's very obvious that the male characters are written by a woman 😆 These moments are entertaining, but I enjoy it more when the men sound like real men.
There were also one or two scenes where I thought that Chase was becoming a little too protective or controlling, but he never crosses any lines with Zoe and is a very memorable MMC
FMC - Zoe: 5 🌟
MMC - Chade: ♾️ 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
LIKES: This was such a fun read! The banter between Chase and Zoe was top-tier and had me giggling constantly. The spice was immaculate, with Chase being one hell of a dirty talker 😉 His devotion to her warms my heart, and he, without a doubt, makes the book boyfriend list. And Zoe is a wonderful character, knows just how to keep Chase on his toes :p But she's also very strong and independent, experiences trauma but faces it head on and fights her way through it. These two characters were perfect for each other, and together they make a beautiful love story ❤️
DISLIKES: There were a couple lines in the book that made me think, "A guy would NEVER say this," where it's very obvious that the male characters are written by a woman 😆 These moments are entertaining, but I enjoy it more when the men sound like real men.
There were also one or two scenes where I thought that Chase was becoming a little too protective or controlling, but he never crosses any lines with Zoe and is a very memorable MMC
June 28, 2025
I am going to give this a solid 4.5 stars yall. I bought the first book in this series but hadn't gotten around to reading it yet when I had an opportunity to read book 2. I am quickly becoming obsessed with a boy obsessed, he falls first and hard. I also love the added element when the FMC has no clue or is a black cat that likes to scratch. I like how in this trope the MC considers that four play. I love the down bad part because these men are beyond patient and recognize that their leading ladies are scared of feelings. The dynamic between these two was absolutely perfect. The way that Chase had been pining over Zoe for years. The one night stand turned fake dating turned roommates. The then slow burn to see how long they could go again without mauling each other from their ridiculous chemistry. The CONNECTION these two had. The glimpses we got of Zoe when she let her mask slip. The MOUTH on Chase- this man was legit filthy in the best way. The fact that both of these characters had been through some tough times and were still grieving. I liked that mental health rep. This book did take a turn I didn't see coming with an added element of stalking. I loved how patient Chase was with Zoe and how he helped her realize how strong she is but also that she doesn't have to do everything alone.
Chase has had one woman on the fore front of all of his fantasies for years. Zoe Carlson- one of the team's PR reps. She spars with him so hard all the time. She has so much spunk and fire. But also she is stunning. He hasn't figured out how to make a move but then at their friends wedding SHE makes a move, and Chase has to pinch himself to make sure he isn't dreaming. Then they share an unforgettable night together. She lowers her walls for him and he catches a glimpse of how she might really feel about him. When something from his past comes to haunt him, he finds himself being the lucky man to call Zoe his girlfriend. He is over the moon and is determined to make this the time where he shows Zoe how good they could be together. Now with a potential stalker on their hands, Zoe has moved in and she is everywhere. He can't escape the beauty that is her. He wants her so bad, but he doesn't want her under the pretenses of it being fake AND he wants her to make the first move. And when she does Chase KNOWS he has a shot now. He just has to be patient and hope she feels the same. And then everything shifts. They are doing this for real. Chase is in heaven literally. She makes him feel safe and calm and loved. But then something happens that freaks her out beyond his reach. Then the stalker comes into play, and Chase wants to give her space to heal but also wants her to know he isn't going anywhere. Because she is and always has been his endgame.
Zoe has a visceral reaction whenever Chase Walton is in the room. He is beautiful but just so smug. She fights her body's reaction and openly spars with him. She likes how their relationship is. Nothing else can ever happen between them. Until they are at a friend's wedding and she lets her guard down. She lets him in for a night to scratch the itch but has realized how the itch might never be scratched. And now she is somehow fake dating him and living with him. And neither of them are acknowledging this inferno of energy between them. Zoe realizes that Chase is waiting for her to make the move. He has made it clear what he wants and how he feels about her. But Zoe isn't ready to recognize that for what it is. She is only human though so maybe they can do things without strings? But now that they have crossed the line again things have shifted. They seem to be playing house really well together. Almost like this isn't fake anymore. Which the more she is around Chase and how he makes her feel she realizes she doesn't want it to be fake anymore either. She really really likes him. She has never felt this safe or this connection with anyone before. Though she is scared to jump, she does it. She jumps in with both feet and is ready to be caught by the love that is Chase. But then a secret is revealed- one that could ruin Zoe and she freaks. That on top of this stalker. now getting more serious really makes her feel rocked. After an altercation she feels altered. She doesn't feel how she did before. She doesn't feel deserving but she realizes that she isn't going to be able to push Chase away. He isn't going anywhere. And she really doesn't want him to.
I really liked this one!! I did feel a little lost on all of the hockey players since I had not read book 1, but was able to catch on quickly as to who was who. Chase was such a wonderful man. He was just perfect. He worshipped Zoe for the queen that she was to him. He was patient. He gave her his time. He was so affected by her. He was so happy with her- it was truly adorable. I loved how he saw all of her and loved ALL of her. Zoe was such a black cat. She had so many walls but lowered them for the people she loved. And when she loved, she loved HARD. Watching her let Chase in was very sweet. The stalker situation threw me off but it wove into the story well. I also loved that Chase got some closure with his family. I am really looking forward to going back and reading book 1 and seeing Lulu and Pookie fall for each other.
Thank you to Luna Literary and Hailey for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Chase has had one woman on the fore front of all of his fantasies for years. Zoe Carlson- one of the team's PR reps. She spars with him so hard all the time. She has so much spunk and fire. But also she is stunning. He hasn't figured out how to make a move but then at their friends wedding SHE makes a move, and Chase has to pinch himself to make sure he isn't dreaming. Then they share an unforgettable night together. She lowers her walls for him and he catches a glimpse of how she might really feel about him. When something from his past comes to haunt him, he finds himself being the lucky man to call Zoe his girlfriend. He is over the moon and is determined to make this the time where he shows Zoe how good they could be together. Now with a potential stalker on their hands, Zoe has moved in and she is everywhere. He can't escape the beauty that is her. He wants her so bad, but he doesn't want her under the pretenses of it being fake AND he wants her to make the first move. And when she does Chase KNOWS he has a shot now. He just has to be patient and hope she feels the same. And then everything shifts. They are doing this for real. Chase is in heaven literally. She makes him feel safe and calm and loved. But then something happens that freaks her out beyond his reach. Then the stalker comes into play, and Chase wants to give her space to heal but also wants her to know he isn't going anywhere. Because she is and always has been his endgame.
Zoe has a visceral reaction whenever Chase Walton is in the room. He is beautiful but just so smug. She fights her body's reaction and openly spars with him. She likes how their relationship is. Nothing else can ever happen between them. Until they are at a friend's wedding and she lets her guard down. She lets him in for a night to scratch the itch but has realized how the itch might never be scratched. And now she is somehow fake dating him and living with him. And neither of them are acknowledging this inferno of energy between them. Zoe realizes that Chase is waiting for her to make the move. He has made it clear what he wants and how he feels about her. But Zoe isn't ready to recognize that for what it is. She is only human though so maybe they can do things without strings? But now that they have crossed the line again things have shifted. They seem to be playing house really well together. Almost like this isn't fake anymore. Which the more she is around Chase and how he makes her feel she realizes she doesn't want it to be fake anymore either. She really really likes him. She has never felt this safe or this connection with anyone before. Though she is scared to jump, she does it. She jumps in with both feet and is ready to be caught by the love that is Chase. But then a secret is revealed- one that could ruin Zoe and she freaks. That on top of this stalker. now getting more serious really makes her feel rocked. After an altercation she feels altered. She doesn't feel how she did before. She doesn't feel deserving but she realizes that she isn't going to be able to push Chase away. He isn't going anywhere. And she really doesn't want him to.
I really liked this one!! I did feel a little lost on all of the hockey players since I had not read book 1, but was able to catch on quickly as to who was who. Chase was such a wonderful man. He was just perfect. He worshipped Zoe for the queen that she was to him. He was patient. He gave her his time. He was so affected by her. He was so happy with her- it was truly adorable. I loved how he saw all of her and loved ALL of her. Zoe was such a black cat. She had so many walls but lowered them for the people she loved. And when she loved, she loved HARD. Watching her let Chase in was very sweet. The stalker situation threw me off but it wove into the story well. I also loved that Chase got some closure with his family. I am really looking forward to going back and reading book 1 and seeing Lulu and Pookie fall for each other.
Thank you to Luna Literary and Hailey for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 13, 2025
Make The Play by Hailey Rodger
4,5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
I was so excited to dive into this book after reading Seal The Deal and finding out who the next couple was! It did not disappoint—everything about it was just fantastic! I loved the banter, the playful bickering, and the sizzling chemistry between the characters. Chase’s obsession with Zoe was just the cherry on top!
Chase is a troublemaker, both on and off the ice. He loves to party and get into fights, while Zoe, who’s the PR exec on his team, always ends up cleaning up his messes. They have this incredible tension brewing between them, and one night they share an unforgettable one-night stand. They agree to forget about it the next day, but then an old scandalous video of Chase pops up, and the PR team has to come up with a plan to save his reputation. Guess what? That plan involves Zoe faking a relationship with Chase!
Zoe is such a badass—smart, independent, and knows exactly what she wants. I admired her confidence and how she had Chase following after her like a puppy! But she also has her vulnerable side; she doesn’t believe in love and tends to shy away from serious relationships. It was heartwarming to watch her slowly open up and lower her guard around Chase. I found her character super relatable, and I loved seeing her growth throughout the story.
Chase is like the ultimate golden retriever boyfriend! He’s charming, flirty, and always seems to have a smile on his face, but beneath that, he’s dealing with some deep issues. I loved how smitten he was with Zoe from the very beginning. He knew the only way to get closer to her was through this fake dating, but he genuinely wanted more. The way he stood up for her, showed that he was serious, and became protective was just swoon-worthy! He was so understanding and patient with her, and my heart melted several times!
Another thing I loved was the found family aspect in this book. The camaraderie between the players was so much fun, and I adored Zoe’s friendship with Charlie. There were plenty of funny moments, but also some heartfelt and suspenseful ones that kept me engaged. I can see the writing improving from the first book, which is amazing considering it’s only Hailey's second book! Her writing always evokes so much emotion, and her characters feel incredibly real. I can’t wait for the next book, especially after catching glimpses of the next couple! If you’re a fan of hockey romances, you need to check this one out!
4,5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
I was so excited to dive into this book after reading Seal The Deal and finding out who the next couple was! It did not disappoint—everything about it was just fantastic! I loved the banter, the playful bickering, and the sizzling chemistry between the characters. Chase’s obsession with Zoe was just the cherry on top!
Chase is a troublemaker, both on and off the ice. He loves to party and get into fights, while Zoe, who’s the PR exec on his team, always ends up cleaning up his messes. They have this incredible tension brewing between them, and one night they share an unforgettable one-night stand. They agree to forget about it the next day, but then an old scandalous video of Chase pops up, and the PR team has to come up with a plan to save his reputation. Guess what? That plan involves Zoe faking a relationship with Chase!
Zoe is such a badass—smart, independent, and knows exactly what she wants. I admired her confidence and how she had Chase following after her like a puppy! But she also has her vulnerable side; she doesn’t believe in love and tends to shy away from serious relationships. It was heartwarming to watch her slowly open up and lower her guard around Chase. I found her character super relatable, and I loved seeing her growth throughout the story.
Chase is like the ultimate golden retriever boyfriend! He’s charming, flirty, and always seems to have a smile on his face, but beneath that, he’s dealing with some deep issues. I loved how smitten he was with Zoe from the very beginning. He knew the only way to get closer to her was through this fake dating, but he genuinely wanted more. The way he stood up for her, showed that he was serious, and became protective was just swoon-worthy! He was so understanding and patient with her, and my heart melted several times!
Another thing I loved was the found family aspect in this book. The camaraderie between the players was so much fun, and I adored Zoe’s friendship with Charlie. There were plenty of funny moments, but also some heartfelt and suspenseful ones that kept me engaged. I can see the writing improving from the first book, which is amazing considering it’s only Hailey's second book! Her writing always evokes so much emotion, and her characters feel incredibly real. I can’t wait for the next book, especially after catching glimpses of the next couple! If you’re a fan of hockey romances, you need to check this one out!
June 13, 2025
**ARC Review**
Make the Play (Colorado Storm #2) by Hailey Rodger
I couldn't get enough of Chase and Zoe's dynamic in Seal the Deal (book 1) so I was so excited for this book. I was not disappointed! Chase is an obsessed, chaotic Golden Retriever, who will do about anything to catch Zoe's attention. Zoe gives Chase hell, but she clearly enjoys their back-and-forth, and seems to love threatening him bodily harm. Sort of enemies to lovers, but their battle of wills is very much like flirting.
After years of banter and pretending not to get along, the tension finally snaps and Zoe gives in to Chase for ONE NIGHT ONLY. She's adamant that nobody can know or she'd lose her job. But, when Chase needs a PR makeover after an old *intimate* tape is leaked, Zoe's PR firm volunteers her as tribute to pretend to be his girlfriend to prove he's settled down! Now, She's fake dating Chase Walton, a man she "can't stand" (Sure, Jan.) and Chase isn't wasting this opportunity with his dream girl!
When Zoe starts getting weird messages, they fear she may have a stalker. Chase demands she move in with him for her safety, plus it will help sell the relationship! (I think even Zoe could admit that protective Chase is kinda hot!) These two have such amazing chemistry. It'll be a miracle if they can keep their hands to themselves!
I just love a down bad, pathetic MMC who's willing to beg. 😏
Chase's well known crush on Zoe goes much deeper than she assumes, but he's a patient man, and he doesn't want to settle for a fling.
He shows how much he cares time and again, and when things threaten to go sideways for Zoe, Chase does whatever he can to protect her from any fallout from this situation he got her in.
To quote the book: "We love a fake-dating-to-actually-dating arc. Very 'Hallmark if Hallmark had orgasms.'"
This book had heart, laughs, heat, and a little danger too!
Chase + Zoe Forever!
4.75⭐ 2🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Hailey Rodger and Luna Literary Management for the ARC!
Make the Play (Colorado Storm #2) by Hailey Rodger
I couldn't get enough of Chase and Zoe's dynamic in Seal the Deal (book 1) so I was so excited for this book. I was not disappointed! Chase is an obsessed, chaotic Golden Retriever, who will do about anything to catch Zoe's attention. Zoe gives Chase hell, but she clearly enjoys their back-and-forth, and seems to love threatening him bodily harm. Sort of enemies to lovers, but their battle of wills is very much like flirting.
After years of banter and pretending not to get along, the tension finally snaps and Zoe gives in to Chase for ONE NIGHT ONLY. She's adamant that nobody can know or she'd lose her job. But, when Chase needs a PR makeover after an old *intimate* tape is leaked, Zoe's PR firm volunteers her as tribute to pretend to be his girlfriend to prove he's settled down! Now, She's fake dating Chase Walton, a man she "can't stand" (Sure, Jan.) and Chase isn't wasting this opportunity with his dream girl!
When Zoe starts getting weird messages, they fear she may have a stalker. Chase demands she move in with him for her safety, plus it will help sell the relationship! (I think even Zoe could admit that protective Chase is kinda hot!) These two have such amazing chemistry. It'll be a miracle if they can keep their hands to themselves!
I just love a down bad, pathetic MMC who's willing to beg. 😏
Chase's well known crush on Zoe goes much deeper than she assumes, but he's a patient man, and he doesn't want to settle for a fling.
He shows how much he cares time and again, and when things threaten to go sideways for Zoe, Chase does whatever he can to protect her from any fallout from this situation he got her in.
To quote the book: "We love a fake-dating-to-actually-dating arc. Very 'Hallmark if Hallmark had orgasms.'"
This book had heart, laughs, heat, and a little danger too!
Chase + Zoe Forever!
4.75⭐ 2🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Hailey Rodger and Luna Literary Management for the ARC!
June 13, 2025
“because it’s one thing to want her close. but it’s everything to keep her safe.”
this is single-handedly one of the best books i have ever read, and no, i am not exaggerating.
you know when a book just hits? when the banter is top tier, the tension is palpable, the spice is spicing, and you’re literally swooning over the characters? that’s exactly what happened in this book for me.
i have been yearning for zoe’s book since i finished seal the deal, and hailey absolutely DELIVERED!! the amount of highlights i have for this book needs to be studied, because i truthfully could not get enough of zoe and chase.
zoe was one of the best fmcs i’ve ever read, and i really loved that her personality didn’t change throughout the book, because it was such an important part of who she is. she could go toe to toe with chase on any given day and win the banter battle, and i was living for every single time she ate him up with her retorts and comebacks. i love when a “i don’t do relationships” person meets their soulmate who is so clearly down bad for them that they can’t hold it in, and that’s exactly what zoe and chase were. if anyone embodies black cat and golden retriever, it’s them.
chase, my sweet little golden retriever… i don’t think i’ve ever met a man who is more obsessed with their partner than he was obsessed with zoe. these two were simply made for each other, even when their arrangement was “fake”. his internal battle against himself had me giggling and kicking my feet because of how much i loved it. i love when men pine in books, and boyyyyy did he ever. the way he called zoe’s bluff every time she said she hated him was ridiculously hot for no other reason than his obsession with her was to die for. he couldn’t not be obsessed with her, and that was one of my favourite things about him.
some of my favourite lines that are definitely necessary to include (not in order):
“you’re disgusting…take off your pants.”
“i’ve been in love with zoe for years. quietly. pathetically. in that aching, too-scared-to-act-on-it kind of way. and tonight was the moment i realized she’s going to break my fucking heart.”
“she kissed me like it meant nothing, and i kissed her like it meant everything.”
“you always do that.”
“what?”
“find me in the noise.”
“you gonna punish him later?”
“i’m gonna strangle him with his own jockstrap.”
“i can’t breathe without her.”
thank you so very much to hailey for the e-arc! i will be yearning for books three and four from here on out until they’re released! 🏒
♡︎ fake dating
♡︎ found family
♡︎ one night stand
♡︎ frenemies to lovers
♡︎ black cat x golden retriever
this is single-handedly one of the best books i have ever read, and no, i am not exaggerating.
you know when a book just hits? when the banter is top tier, the tension is palpable, the spice is spicing, and you’re literally swooning over the characters? that’s exactly what happened in this book for me.
i have been yearning for zoe’s book since i finished seal the deal, and hailey absolutely DELIVERED!! the amount of highlights i have for this book needs to be studied, because i truthfully could not get enough of zoe and chase.
zoe was one of the best fmcs i’ve ever read, and i really loved that her personality didn’t change throughout the book, because it was such an important part of who she is. she could go toe to toe with chase on any given day and win the banter battle, and i was living for every single time she ate him up with her retorts and comebacks. i love when a “i don’t do relationships” person meets their soulmate who is so clearly down bad for them that they can’t hold it in, and that’s exactly what zoe and chase were. if anyone embodies black cat and golden retriever, it’s them.
chase, my sweet little golden retriever… i don’t think i’ve ever met a man who is more obsessed with their partner than he was obsessed with zoe. these two were simply made for each other, even when their arrangement was “fake”. his internal battle against himself had me giggling and kicking my feet because of how much i loved it. i love when men pine in books, and boyyyyy did he ever. the way he called zoe’s bluff every time she said she hated him was ridiculously hot for no other reason than his obsession with her was to die for. he couldn’t not be obsessed with her, and that was one of my favourite things about him.
some of my favourite lines that are definitely necessary to include (not in order):
“you’re disgusting…take off your pants.”
“i’ve been in love with zoe for years. quietly. pathetically. in that aching, too-scared-to-act-on-it kind of way. and tonight was the moment i realized she’s going to break my fucking heart.”
“she kissed me like it meant nothing, and i kissed her like it meant everything.”
“you always do that.”
“what?”
“find me in the noise.”
“you gonna punish him later?”
“i’m gonna strangle him with his own jockstrap.”
“i can’t breathe without her.”
thank you so very much to hailey for the e-arc! i will be yearning for books three and four from here on out until they’re released! 🏒
♡︎ fake dating
♡︎ found family
♡︎ one night stand
♡︎ frenemies to lovers
♡︎ black cat x golden retriever
June 28, 2025
This book was everything I needed and more! Hailey Rodgers did an incredible job with this book. She really makes you feel for the MCs. I laughed, I cried, I re-evaluated my own life lol. There is plenty of banter, spicy scenes and real life situations that you’re sure to enjoy.
This is the second book in a series but can be read as a standalone. I am so excited for book 3 and to continue getting to know everyone!
This is the second book in a series but can be read as a standalone. I am so excited for book 3 and to continue getting to know everyone!
June 8, 2025
More 4 1/2 🌟 If you adore a great hockey romance with the perfect about of tension, banter and chemistry then Make The Play is for you. This frenemies to lovers, fake dating romance features Zoe and Chase and boy does Chase fall fast and his support for Zoe is next level. I adored the friendship groups in this one too. I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I received a complementary copy from Luna Literary.
June 11, 2025
Thank you so much to Hailey and Luna Literary for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely devoured this book! Chase is such a green flag, perfect golden retriever boyfriend, but also gives touch her and ☠️ vibes and has a filthy mouth 🤭. What more can you ask for in a book boyfriend? Absolutely nothing. I adored the friendships and found family in this book. I loved the banter between these two from the first chapter. I was giggling and kicking my feet the whole time while reading. There was also a little suspense aspect to the story, which kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn't read the first book in this series, but after reading this and loving Hailey's writing, I'm immediately going back and reading it. I'm also patiently waiting for the next book in this series because we get glimpses of who it's going to be, and I'm going to eat it up! I definitely recommend this book to my friends who love hockey romances!
June 12, 2025
This is one of the best frenemies to lovers romance I have read. I love that from the very beginning, Chase is in love with Zoe and how he lives for their banter but he craves to know Zoe even more. I also loved how both Zoe and Chase have issues from their past that they were still working through. I also appreciated that this is a hockey romance so Zoe and Chase have a very supportive found family. Thank you to author Hailey Rodger for the opportunity to read this book early.
June 15, 2025
2.5 stars
I really wanted to like this book—there were definitely some good parts—but Zoe might be one of the most insufferable FMCs I’ve ever read. The storyline itself was solid, and I’m always a fan of the fake dating trope. But honestly, even though Chase was the younger one in the relationship, Zoe came off as the emotionally immature one. I understand she had a lot of trauma to work through, but the way she treated Chase was awful. Even her attempts at being “nice” felt mean.
The stalker subplot also felt like it came out of nowhere and wasn’t explored enough to really land.
Overall, this book had a lot of potential, but I just couldn’t connect with it the way I hoped to.
I really wanted to like this book—there were definitely some good parts—but Zoe might be one of the most insufferable FMCs I’ve ever read. The storyline itself was solid, and I’m always a fan of the fake dating trope. But honestly, even though Chase was the younger one in the relationship, Zoe came off as the emotionally immature one. I understand she had a lot of trauma to work through, but the way she treated Chase was awful. Even her attempts at being “nice” felt mean.
The stalker subplot also felt like it came out of nowhere and wasn’t explored enough to really land.
Overall, this book had a lot of potential, but I just couldn’t connect with it the way I hoped to.
June 11, 2025
Chase is a star hockey player in need of a reputation overhaul, and Zoe, the team’s no-nonsense PR executive, is assigned the job by becoming his fake girlfriend. They already have history, having shared a one night stand that was supposed to stay in the past. Now, forced into a public relationship, their simmering chemistry and unresolved tension make things far more complicated. As the stakes rise and Zoe faces unexpected threats, Chase proves he’s willing to protect her at all costs. With the fake relationship nearing its expiration date, both are left questioning what’s real between them. Packed with sharp banter, emotional depth, and a lively team atmosphere, this hockey romance is a must add to your TBR!
Thank you, Hailey Rodger for the ARC.
Thank you, Hailey Rodger for the ARC.
June 12, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Make The Play
By Hailey Rodger
“And this is what unnerves me about him. Not the flirting. Not the smirking or the relentless teasing. This. The way he so easily peels back my mask, sees things he’s not supposed to—things I keep hidden behind a perfectly timed joke or one-liner. He’s looking at me like he’s weighing whether to push or not.”
“I’ve seen him in action, I know who he is. The grinning, reckless playboy who parties too hard, fights too often, and laughs off every bad headline with a careless shrug. And if I let myself want him, he could be careless with me, too. Except… he never has been. For all his chaos, for all the ways he plays too fast and too loose with everything else in his life, I’ve never once felt like a game to him. He might drive me insane, might flirt and tease and push every single one of my buttons, but he’s always been steady with me. And maybe that’s what terrifies me more than anything else.”
“I’ve been in love with Zoe for years. Quietly. Pathetically. In that aching, too-scared-to-act-on-it kind of way. And tonight was the moment I realized she’s going to break my fucking heart.”
“I tell myself it was just one kiss. One night, one headline. But the second I stop moving, I know it’s a lie. I could lose every game, take every hit this season, and none of it would wreck me like the thought of losing her. Which is f***ed, because she’s never been mine. Not really, not like that. And yet I’d take her any way I can get her. As a friend. A colleague. Her favorite target. Anything that gives me a reason to orbit her world a little longer.”
God this book is a good read. The way Chase has loved Zoe for years and has waited for her. The way he is always there and protecting her, making her his #1 priority. Zoe the boss bitch who’s fiercely independent, but slowly falls for Chase. The way they are both the safe, comfort spot for each other. There’s tension and banter between the two and add in the friend group and the jabs they through at each other. This book is heart melting, hair pulling, and spicy. I really enjoyed it!
Tropes:
Frenemies To Lovers
Fake Dating
Hockey Romance
One Night Stand
Age Gap
Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Spice starts at 7%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4.5/5⭐️
Available on Kindle Unlimited June 12th
Make The Play
By Hailey Rodger
“And this is what unnerves me about him. Not the flirting. Not the smirking or the relentless teasing. This. The way he so easily peels back my mask, sees things he’s not supposed to—things I keep hidden behind a perfectly timed joke or one-liner. He’s looking at me like he’s weighing whether to push or not.”
“I’ve seen him in action, I know who he is. The grinning, reckless playboy who parties too hard, fights too often, and laughs off every bad headline with a careless shrug. And if I let myself want him, he could be careless with me, too. Except… he never has been. For all his chaos, for all the ways he plays too fast and too loose with everything else in his life, I’ve never once felt like a game to him. He might drive me insane, might flirt and tease and push every single one of my buttons, but he’s always been steady with me. And maybe that’s what terrifies me more than anything else.”
“I’ve been in love with Zoe for years. Quietly. Pathetically. In that aching, too-scared-to-act-on-it kind of way. And tonight was the moment I realized she’s going to break my fucking heart.”
“I tell myself it was just one kiss. One night, one headline. But the second I stop moving, I know it’s a lie. I could lose every game, take every hit this season, and none of it would wreck me like the thought of losing her. Which is f***ed, because she’s never been mine. Not really, not like that. And yet I’d take her any way I can get her. As a friend. A colleague. Her favorite target. Anything that gives me a reason to orbit her world a little longer.”
God this book is a good read. The way Chase has loved Zoe for years and has waited for her. The way he is always there and protecting her, making her his #1 priority. Zoe the boss bitch who’s fiercely independent, but slowly falls for Chase. The way they are both the safe, comfort spot for each other. There’s tension and banter between the two and add in the friend group and the jabs they through at each other. This book is heart melting, hair pulling, and spicy. I really enjoyed it!
Tropes:
Frenemies To Lovers
Fake Dating
Hockey Romance
One Night Stand
Age Gap
Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Spice starts at 7%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4.5/5⭐️
Available on Kindle Unlimited June 12th
June 5, 2025
If I could rate this book six stars, I would. I seem to remember feeling the same way about "Seal the Deal" (the precursor to this book) when I finished.
This series just makes me feel things. There is a scene near the end of this book that had me in tears, seriously written SO BEAUTIFULLY and with such emotion. This was one of those books that just makes you feel happy to be alive and happy to get the chance to feel such joy and witness such a beautiful love story. (That feels crazy to write but I'm pretty sure I'm NOT PMSing, it's just a really lovely love story that checked ALL the boxes)
The spice in this book was top tier. The banter between the two characters had me laughing out loud. I KNEW they would be so perfect together ever since we caught a glimpse of their dynamic in Seal the Deal.
AND of course Hailey is giving us breadcrumbs for the FMC and MMC of the next book (praise jesus bc I need more of this series) and I already know I'll love THEM as well. When Meadow, the young daughter of book 1 FMC, hosts a pretend wedding for Logan (a fellow hockey player) and LuLu (a dif hockey player's sister), I WAS SAT ready to pick up every little clue I could.
YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK. And then come and talk to me about it because I think this is one I'll talk about for a long time.
This series just makes me feel things. There is a scene near the end of this book that had me in tears, seriously written SO BEAUTIFULLY and with such emotion. This was one of those books that just makes you feel happy to be alive and happy to get the chance to feel such joy and witness such a beautiful love story. (That feels crazy to write but I'm pretty sure I'm NOT PMSing, it's just a really lovely love story that checked ALL the boxes)
The spice in this book was top tier. The banter between the two characters had me laughing out loud. I KNEW they would be so perfect together ever since we caught a glimpse of their dynamic in Seal the Deal.
AND of course Hailey is giving us breadcrumbs for the FMC and MMC of the next book (praise jesus bc I need more of this series) and I already know I'll love THEM as well. When Meadow, the young daughter of book 1 FMC, hosts a pretend wedding for Logan (a fellow hockey player) and LuLu (a dif hockey player's sister), I WAS SAT ready to pick up every little clue I could.
YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK. And then come and talk to me about it because I think this is one I'll talk about for a long time.
June 12, 2025
Happy publication day to Make the Play by Hailey Rodger!!! 🩷
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Honestly, my sleep schedule HATES to see Hailey Rodger coming. Did I stay up way too late reading my ARC the other day? Yes. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY.
Zoe Carlson is a PR exec working with the Colorado Storm hockey team. Chase Walton is a star hockey player for the Colorado Storm. What happens when a PR disaster befalls Chase, an infamous playboy? Why, have him fake date the PR exec that he's (perhaps not-so-)secretly in love with! What could go wrong?
This frenemies-to-lovers story comes with TOP-TIER banter that had me giggling and kicking my feet. We're also given an additional suspenseful storyline. Combine the two? I hated having to put this book down.
Y'all want sports romance? Read this book.
Y'all want banter? Read this book.
Y'all want an MMC totally gone for the FMC? READ THIS BOOK.
➡️ 4.5 stars ✨
Make the Play is absolutely for you if you want:
🏒 A bad*ss PR exec FMC
🏒 An absolute simp of an MMC
🏒 Fake dating
🏒 Frenemies to lovers
🏒 Spice that is SPICIN' (The elevator??? Whew.)
🏒 The BEST found family
Go get a copy of Make the Play. Now. You won't regret it, I promise 🩷
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Honestly, my sleep schedule HATES to see Hailey Rodger coming. Did I stay up way too late reading my ARC the other day? Yes. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY.
Zoe Carlson is a PR exec working with the Colorado Storm hockey team. Chase Walton is a star hockey player for the Colorado Storm. What happens when a PR disaster befalls Chase, an infamous playboy? Why, have him fake date the PR exec that he's (perhaps not-so-)secretly in love with! What could go wrong?
This frenemies-to-lovers story comes with TOP-TIER banter that had me giggling and kicking my feet. We're also given an additional suspenseful storyline. Combine the two? I hated having to put this book down.
Y'all want sports romance? Read this book.
Y'all want banter? Read this book.
Y'all want an MMC totally gone for the FMC? READ THIS BOOK.
➡️ 4.5 stars ✨
Make the Play is absolutely for you if you want:
🏒 A bad*ss PR exec FMC
🏒 An absolute simp of an MMC
🏒 Fake dating
🏒 Frenemies to lovers
🏒 Spice that is SPICIN' (The elevator??? Whew.)
🏒 The BEST found family
Go get a copy of Make the Play. Now. You won't regret it, I promise 🩷
June 23, 2025
He’s so gone for her it’s not even funny
TW: child injury, gr!ef, loss of parent, loss of sibling, mentions of DV(not of FMC), attempted k!dnapping, assauIt, dr*gging of FMC, thre*ts sent on social media, staIking(not the fun kind), s*x tape gets leaked
Guyss I’m officially obsessed with the he falls first trope. But more than that. I’m obsessed with how obsessed he is with her. Like tell me you don’t want a man like Chase!? He’s literally a cinnamon roll who would unalive for her at any moment but will also sing his love for Zoe at the top of his lungs. Boy is down bad for Zoe and I’m here for it. Like obsession is at a 12 his love a 10 and poor Zoe is just there trying to pretend she doesn’t feel anything while he’s plying her with coffee and snacks. Girl didn’t stand a chance.
Really what you need to know:
Chase is obsessed with Zoe, Zoe wants Chase to stop making her job harder. Chase loves Zoe’s personal space. Chase will do anything to get Zoe’s attention, Zoe likes to pretend it annoys her (she secretly loves it). Zoe is bad at emotions, but that’s okay because Chase is excellent at Zoe’s emotions.
Chase will always protect Zoe. No matter what.
Carnations are a big deal.
This book checked all the boxes
- sports romance ✅
- he’s obsessed ✅
- she loves it but tells him she hates it ✅
-banter ✅
It was a perfect read ! It only took me like forever to read it cuz I was super busy.
The communication in this book was next level! So healthy and amazing 🤩 like truly. It was so good. Chase is so healthy and perfect.
I did not read book 1 in this series and I probably will eventually but I’m soooo ready for book 3 ! They teased us all through this book and I can’t wait! And she’s a teacher !? Dude. Watch out.
Tropes: hockey romance, PR exec/hockey player, he fell first and harder, he is so obsessed with her, he’s only good for her, banter, pining, fake dating(for her), touch her and d!e, she’s emotionally constipated, he sees right through her, golden retriever/black cat, reverse age gap(not even 4 years)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Steam:🔥🔥🔥🔥
Sweetness:💗💗💗💗💗💗(Chase deserves the extra heart)
TW: child injury, gr!ef, loss of parent, loss of sibling, mentions of DV(not of FMC), attempted k!dnapping, assauIt, dr*gging of FMC, thre*ts sent on social media, staIking(not the fun kind), s*x tape gets leaked
Guyss I’m officially obsessed with the he falls first trope. But more than that. I’m obsessed with how obsessed he is with her. Like tell me you don’t want a man like Chase!? He’s literally a cinnamon roll who would unalive for her at any moment but will also sing his love for Zoe at the top of his lungs. Boy is down bad for Zoe and I’m here for it. Like obsession is at a 12 his love a 10 and poor Zoe is just there trying to pretend she doesn’t feel anything while he’s plying her with coffee and snacks. Girl didn’t stand a chance.
Really what you need to know:
Chase is obsessed with Zoe, Zoe wants Chase to stop making her job harder. Chase loves Zoe’s personal space. Chase will do anything to get Zoe’s attention, Zoe likes to pretend it annoys her (she secretly loves it). Zoe is bad at emotions, but that’s okay because Chase is excellent at Zoe’s emotions.
Chase will always protect Zoe. No matter what.
Carnations are a big deal.
This book checked all the boxes
- sports romance ✅
- he’s obsessed ✅
- she loves it but tells him she hates it ✅
-banter ✅
It was a perfect read ! It only took me like forever to read it cuz I was super busy.
The communication in this book was next level! So healthy and amazing 🤩 like truly. It was so good. Chase is so healthy and perfect.
I did not read book 1 in this series and I probably will eventually but I’m soooo ready for book 3 ! They teased us all through this book and I can’t wait! And she’s a teacher !? Dude. Watch out.
Tropes: hockey romance, PR exec/hockey player, he fell first and harder, he is so obsessed with her, he’s only good for her, banter, pining, fake dating(for her), touch her and d!e, she’s emotionally constipated, he sees right through her, golden retriever/black cat, reverse age gap(not even 4 years)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Steam:🔥🔥🔥🔥
Sweetness:💗💗💗💗💗💗(Chase deserves the extra heart)
June 29, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐-> ♾️🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶
💕 Age Gap that's not a big deal but she makes it one
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x PR Exec
💕 Frenemies To Lovers
🏒 Found Family
💕 Fake Dating
🏒ONS
💕 Plenty Of Spice & Banter
🏒 She's Grumpy to no one but him
✨️ ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️
Zoe and Chase quickly made their way into my heart ❤️. I loved their chemistry and banter! With plenty of spice to give us everything we didn't know we needed but certainly hoped for 😍.
Zoe definitely made Chase see that she wasn't going to take it easy on him! But they were able to see exactly where they stood and made it work in both of their favors!
These two will be living rent free in my head for a long time!
🔥 Let's Talk About Sex Baby 🥵:
🌶️🌶️🌶 /5
Thank you so much to Hailey Rodger & Luna Lit for the free ALC copy 🫶🏻. All opinions✨️ are my own, honest and voluntary✨️.
🌶️🌶️🌶
💕 Age Gap that's not a big deal but she makes it one
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x PR Exec
💕 Frenemies To Lovers
🏒 Found Family
💕 Fake Dating
🏒ONS
💕 Plenty Of Spice & Banter
🏒 She's Grumpy to no one but him
✨️ ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️
Zoe and Chase quickly made their way into my heart ❤️. I loved their chemistry and banter! With plenty of spice to give us everything we didn't know we needed but certainly hoped for 😍.
Zoe definitely made Chase see that she wasn't going to take it easy on him! But they were able to see exactly where they stood and made it work in both of their favors!
These two will be living rent free in my head for a long time!
🔥 Let's Talk About Sex Baby 🥵:
🌶️🌶️🌶 /5
Thank you so much to Hailey Rodger & Luna Lit for the free ALC copy 🫶🏻. All opinions✨️ are my own, honest and voluntary✨️.
June 16, 2025
4.5 stars✨
"Because she thinks this is fake, and I'm stuck somewhere between fantasy and freefall. She kissed me like it meant nothing, and I kissed her like it meant everything"
A frenemies to lovers, fake dating hockey romance that I feel in love with.
Hailey definitely turned it up a notch with the 2nd book in her Colorado Storm Series.
Book 1, Seal the Deal was adorable and loved it, but wow Make the Play was delicious, and I devoured it!!!!
I so loved the relentless banter. The tension was sweet and savory and Chase's cockiness? That was a 10/10! 😮💨
The way Chase antagonizes Zoe not only to get her attention but to also make her see he's always there for her, even when she refused to.
This book had me gripping my kindle right up to the very last chapter. There were tears, there were laughs (Chase will make you laugh out loud)!
There were so many bits to this that to mention them all would be a huge spoiler. Just check it out
Thank you Hailey and Luna Literary for opportunity to read and review this fun and amazing rom-com.
"Because she thinks this is fake, and I'm stuck somewhere between fantasy and freefall. She kissed me like it meant nothing, and I kissed her like it meant everything"
A frenemies to lovers, fake dating hockey romance that I feel in love with.
Hailey definitely turned it up a notch with the 2nd book in her Colorado Storm Series.
Book 1, Seal the Deal was adorable and loved it, but wow Make the Play was delicious, and I devoured it!!!!
I so loved the relentless banter. The tension was sweet and savory and Chase's cockiness? That was a 10/10! 😮💨
The way Chase antagonizes Zoe not only to get her attention but to also make her see he's always there for her, even when she refused to.
This book had me gripping my kindle right up to the very last chapter. There were tears, there were laughs (Chase will make you laugh out loud)!
There were so many bits to this that to mention them all would be a huge spoiler. Just check it out
Thank you Hailey and Luna Literary for opportunity to read and review this fun and amazing rom-com.
July 4, 2025
I loved this book! There is banter, cinnamon roll MMC that will do anything for her and just an amazing sports romance. I highly recommend this book and anything else Hailey produces. Happy Reading Everyone!
June 11, 2025
Let's start like this, this book made me reevaluate the reverse agegap (4 years, but details), made me feel even more alone and I didn't want to finish it I swear it kept me company a lot. I cried a lot after the second half.
Let's continue with the characters. So, Chase Walton, unattainable standards. I've read many hockey romances, but him? unsurpassable. I'm madly in love with him. I loved his consistency, his growth and his fight to get Zoe's attention. He knows what he wants, takes what he wants and puts Zoe first. Let's move on to Zoe, a very strong fmc who needs to be understood. Very strong but she also has her insecurities, her fears and in the book she faces an important growth. She left me with something and made me think a lot about letting yourself be loved both by her and by others.
As for the story, i found everything well balanced.
it's a fake dating and one night stand, very well written that i devoured in very few sittings.
i loved the found family that formed from the first book and i'm curious to read the other characters.
I'm usually strict with ratings, but this book deserves my 5 stars!
Thanks to luna literary and author Hailey Rodger for accepting this arc. I was so curious to read this book after the first one!
Let's continue with the characters. So, Chase Walton, unattainable standards. I've read many hockey romances, but him? unsurpassable. I'm madly in love with him. I loved his consistency, his growth and his fight to get Zoe's attention. He knows what he wants, takes what he wants and puts Zoe first. Let's move on to Zoe, a very strong fmc who needs to be understood. Very strong but she also has her insecurities, her fears and in the book she faces an important growth. She left me with something and made me think a lot about letting yourself be loved both by her and by others.
As for the story, i found everything well balanced.
it's a fake dating and one night stand, very well written that i devoured in very few sittings.
i loved the found family that formed from the first book and i'm curious to read the other characters.
I'm usually strict with ratings, but this book deserves my 5 stars!
Thanks to luna literary and author Hailey Rodger for accepting this arc. I was so curious to read this book after the first one!
June 27, 2025
3.5⭐️ I think for like the first 100 pages I really didn’t understand either FMC or MMC because they hadn’t been introduced well in the first two chapters. Was ready for the ending and it was so unrealistic and as a professional I absolutely cringed during their meeting. I love a romance novel and the unrealistic tropes but this made me AWARE of that and I did not like that.
TLDR: little too long, a little too cringe, and the plot wasn’t strong
TLDR: little too long, a little too cringe, and the plot wasn’t strong
June 26, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
Okay, so I didn't have enough time to read Seal the Deal before Make the Play and that was my biggest regret—but that didn't stop me from enjoying this book.
Zoe Carlson is a PR Executive for the Colorado Storm and she is sassy, knows how to pack a punch, but also is a lover girl through and through. She just doesn't want to show it... Yet. Chase Walton is the walking red flag, PR bomb threat who gives Zoe a run for her money.
From the beginning, you could tell that Zoe and Chase had chemistry. Their moment in the photo booth had me SWEATING. The tension, the longing—it was everything. And when Chase and Zoe have their one night stand? It's obvious that things aren't going to be left alone. Chase is pursuing this.
So remember when I said Chase was a PR bomb threat? A bomb detonates and a sex tape of him and a girl he hooked up with in the past gets released. And this is where fake dating has a little twist for me. This time, the Colorado Storm, Pulse, and Coach Benson are in on it—so much so that I literally thought that they were going to be the reason why Zoe and Chase get together. The deal is that Zoe and Chase fake date to clean up his imagine for an allotted amount of time, but Chase knows that this is his chance.
Some of my favorite parts of fake dating books are the parts where they just get domesticated. It could have been as little as building a wardrobe together, Chase buying a coffee mug and flowers for Zoe, and even just Chase being willing do this scavenger hunt concert with Zoe because she was so excited about it.
Now this stalker plot twist? Hailey? Hello? I was thrown off! This whole time I thought this stalker was obsessed with Zoe, but in reality they were obsessed with Chase! This stalker wanted to get rid of Zoe because he thought that she was a distraction to Chase. After Zoe's dangerous encounter with Chase's stalker, she is going THROUGH it. Zoe kind of loses herself and doesn't feel that spark she usually has and it almost makes her feel like no one would be able to love her. However, Chase never strays and continues to support and love Zoe throughout all her phases—good and bad.
I love the found family in this series and I've technically only read one book, but I know that I'm along for the ride when I'm interested in the other books. When I have the time, Seal the Deal is definitely on my TBR and I cannot wait for Lulu and Logan's book!
Thank you Hailey and team for this lovely ARC! I can't wait to see what happens next for the Storm!
Okay, so I didn't have enough time to read Seal the Deal before Make the Play and that was my biggest regret—but that didn't stop me from enjoying this book.
Zoe Carlson is a PR Executive for the Colorado Storm and she is sassy, knows how to pack a punch, but also is a lover girl through and through. She just doesn't want to show it... Yet. Chase Walton is the walking red flag, PR bomb threat who gives Zoe a run for her money.
From the beginning, you could tell that Zoe and Chase had chemistry. Their moment in the photo booth had me SWEATING. The tension, the longing—it was everything. And when Chase and Zoe have their one night stand? It's obvious that things aren't going to be left alone. Chase is pursuing this.
So remember when I said Chase was a PR bomb threat? A bomb detonates and a sex tape of him and a girl he hooked up with in the past gets released. And this is where fake dating has a little twist for me. This time, the Colorado Storm, Pulse, and Coach Benson are in on it—so much so that I literally thought that they were going to be the reason why Zoe and Chase get together. The deal is that Zoe and Chase fake date to clean up his imagine for an allotted amount of time, but Chase knows that this is his chance.
Some of my favorite parts of fake dating books are the parts where they just get domesticated. It could have been as little as building a wardrobe together, Chase buying a coffee mug and flowers for Zoe, and even just Chase being willing do this scavenger hunt concert with Zoe because she was so excited about it.
Now this stalker plot twist? Hailey? Hello? I was thrown off! This whole time I thought this stalker was obsessed with Zoe, but in reality they were obsessed with Chase! This stalker wanted to get rid of Zoe because he thought that she was a distraction to Chase. After Zoe's dangerous encounter with Chase's stalker, she is going THROUGH it. Zoe kind of loses herself and doesn't feel that spark she usually has and it almost makes her feel like no one would be able to love her. However, Chase never strays and continues to support and love Zoe throughout all her phases—good and bad.
I love the found family in this series and I've technically only read one book, but I know that I'm along for the ride when I'm interested in the other books. When I have the time, Seal the Deal is definitely on my TBR and I cannot wait for Lulu and Logan's book!
Thank you Hailey and team for this lovely ARC! I can't wait to see what happens next for the Storm!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2025
I am going to say it now, but I have a feeling this is going to be my favorite of the whole series( unless Hutchy's story tops this)
To say I was excited to get my hands on these two would be an understatement. I fell in love with them in Seal the Deal (Book 1 in the Colorado Storm series), and I knew that their stor was going to be full of all the good stuff.
Let's start with Chase. This man has been down bad since day one. If you looked up the definition of Golden Retriever in Human for, his picture would definitely appear. This man is walking perfection. But here is the thing about Chase, while he appears happy go lucky on the outside and the one to who seems to be there for a good time, the takes everything in stride guy. He is so much more than that. The depth of his character was not what I was expecting, in the best of ways. While yes, he is obsessed with Zoe, he is also her fiercest protector.
Zoe, this FMC is all sass and confidence and a " I will chew you up and spit you out" vibe that remains with her throughout the whole novel. While she is the definition of " classy and bad-assy". Zoe, like chase, has this whole other side to her that she lefts very few people see. And this right here is something that I was able to connect with on a personal level. The need to constantly put on a mask is exhausting.
Chase and Zoe were perfect. Their banter it top tier. So much so that has me literally crying from laughing so hard. But ther banter wasn't just between Zoe and Chase. No, the friend group chats and discussions were everything! and can we please recognize the amazing found family within this series. The depth is adds to not only Zoe and Chase but the continued story for Charlie and Jake. I love when authors intergrate characters from previous books and Hailey does that flawlessly.
and can we please talk about the spice, because the sexual tension between these two literally bleeds off the page. The push and pull literally ignited all my brain cells and when the last thread of tension finally snapped, Gah!( it's the only word that comes to mind)
To say that I am excited for book three is an understatement!
Thank. You Hailey Rodger and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
To say I was excited to get my hands on these two would be an understatement. I fell in love with them in Seal the Deal (Book 1 in the Colorado Storm series), and I knew that their stor was going to be full of all the good stuff.
Let's start with Chase. This man has been down bad since day one. If you looked up the definition of Golden Retriever in Human for, his picture would definitely appear. This man is walking perfection. But here is the thing about Chase, while he appears happy go lucky on the outside and the one to who seems to be there for a good time, the takes everything in stride guy. He is so much more than that. The depth of his character was not what I was expecting, in the best of ways. While yes, he is obsessed with Zoe, he is also her fiercest protector.
Zoe, this FMC is all sass and confidence and a " I will chew you up and spit you out" vibe that remains with her throughout the whole novel. While she is the definition of " classy and bad-assy". Zoe, like chase, has this whole other side to her that she lefts very few people see. And this right here is something that I was able to connect with on a personal level. The need to constantly put on a mask is exhausting.
Chase and Zoe were perfect. Their banter it top tier. So much so that has me literally crying from laughing so hard. But ther banter wasn't just between Zoe and Chase. No, the friend group chats and discussions were everything! and can we please recognize the amazing found family within this series. The depth is adds to not only Zoe and Chase but the continued story for Charlie and Jake. I love when authors intergrate characters from previous books and Hailey does that flawlessly.
and can we please talk about the spice, because the sexual tension between these two literally bleeds off the page. The push and pull literally ignited all my brain cells and when the last thread of tension finally snapped, Gah!( it's the only word that comes to mind)
To say that I am excited for book three is an understatement!
Thank. You Hailey Rodger and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
June 9, 2025
sorry to say this, but Jake....step aside because Chase has arrived and I couldn't get enough.
Yall have no idea the amount of times I've laughed and also cried reading Chase and Zoe's story...I actually lost count. so I have no idea how many times either.
The banter between these two...OMG fucking chefs kiss. everytime Zoe would mouth off to Chase...he'd take it and run with it. throwing something right back at her that would annoy her...but she secretly loved.
As PR for the Storm hockey team..she unsurprisingly has to help clean up a lot of Chase's mistakes and chaos. Thats how she ends up being offered to fake date Chase to help clean up a mess that surfaced and needs to be redirected with him being seen in a stable relationship.
Chase was all over it.
Zoe...😅 not so much.
or so she told everyone...
the tension between these two..perfection.
the banter, like i said, perfection.
the drama, it was a good mixture with everything going on i think.
I had my suspicions to what was happening and I was actually correct...somewhat..least to who was stalking Zoe. not necessarily as to why.
but when it was revealed...and to what followed...let's just say, Chase is very protective. as he should.
also, he was just simply the sweetest. most patient. the little things he did to show Zoe he wasn't going anywhere. 🥹 ah I couldn't get enough. I just love him. 😭
ugh I could to on and on. I just loved these characters so much. oh and we see more of Charlie and Jake. absolutely loved to see how they were doing.🥹🥹
if you love a good hockey romance, endless fun banter, sexual tension, with a bit of trauma and suspense mixed in...read this book.
thank you so much Hailey and @lunaliterary.management for the arc. 🫶🏻
Yall have no idea the amount of times I've laughed and also cried reading Chase and Zoe's story...I actually lost count. so I have no idea how many times either.
The banter between these two...OMG fucking chefs kiss. everytime Zoe would mouth off to Chase...he'd take it and run with it. throwing something right back at her that would annoy her...but she secretly loved.
As PR for the Storm hockey team..she unsurprisingly has to help clean up a lot of Chase's mistakes and chaos. Thats how she ends up being offered to fake date Chase to help clean up a mess that surfaced and needs to be redirected with him being seen in a stable relationship.
Chase was all over it.
Zoe...😅 not so much.
or so she told everyone...
the tension between these two..perfection.
the banter, like i said, perfection.
the drama, it was a good mixture with everything going on i think.
I had my suspicions to what was happening and I was actually correct...somewhat..least to who was stalking Zoe. not necessarily as to why.
but when it was revealed...and to what followed...let's just say, Chase is very protective. as he should.
also, he was just simply the sweetest. most patient. the little things he did to show Zoe he wasn't going anywhere. 🥹 ah I couldn't get enough. I just love him. 😭
ugh I could to on and on. I just loved these characters so much. oh and we see more of Charlie and Jake. absolutely loved to see how they were doing.🥹🥹
if you love a good hockey romance, endless fun banter, sexual tension, with a bit of trauma and suspense mixed in...read this book.
thank you so much Hailey and @lunaliterary.management for the arc. 🫶🏻
June 13, 2025
I love a hockey, fake dating, forced proximity storyline but this fell a little flat for me. The storyline follows Zoe, the PR manager for the Colorado Storm hockey team, and Chase, a hockey player who start to fake date after Chase is involved in a PR nightmare. They start to fake date to gain positive press from their relationship. Unbeknownst to Zoe, Chase has been in love with Zoe since he met her. I didn’t really emotionally connect well with either main characters but I did enjoy the banter between them and the time they shared together. Chase was also very sweet and you could tell how much he tried to make Zoe happy. I just don’t think Zoe appreciated him as much as she could. I think the reverse age gap also ruined part of the story for me because Chase felt too young and it seemed to be brought up a lot. Also it was kind of insane that they are trying to clear up his PR nightmare, and than Chase and Zoe almost have a close call with the elevator video… That frustrated me because it made the whole relationship feel cheap. I don’t know, just wanted to scream at them to grow up. Some of the friend banter felt icky and I’ve read better friend group chats.
Regarding the whole book, the beginning had me hooked, the end kept me invested but the middle had me completely bored and lacking interest in the story. The middle lacked any plot filled with constant smutty scenes that I skipped half the time after the third chapter in a row. Plus, Zoe has a stalker (who I figured out quickly who it was) and he randomly shows up at around the 80% mark of the book, and personally with how non serious the whole middle of the book was , the stalker storyline could have been removed.
Thank you Luna literary for an ARC for an honest review.
Regarding the whole book, the beginning had me hooked, the end kept me invested but the middle had me completely bored and lacking interest in the story. The middle lacked any plot filled with constant smutty scenes that I skipped half the time after the third chapter in a row. Plus, Zoe has a stalker (who I figured out quickly who it was) and he randomly shows up at around the 80% mark of the book, and personally with how non serious the whole middle of the book was , the stalker storyline could have been removed.
Thank you Luna literary for an ARC for an honest review.
June 14, 2025
THE FUCKING BANTER IN THE BOOK. Chase is such a cocky son of a bitch, and I LIVED FOR IT.
HAILEY RODGER WHAT IS THIS NEW ADDICTION I HAVE.
Zoe was so spicy towards him. Like the whole book she insulted him 🤣 I LOVED IT. I was cackling all the way through. I’m gonna put some quotes at the bottom for y’all to see how bad you need to read this too.
This fake dating, enemies to lovers was so fucking good. Like these one liners Hailey writes in here perfect. Her witt and banter is some of the BEST I’ve come across.
Chase did EVERYTHING TO PROTECT HER. I love how he re-made contracts for her, and stood up for her shamelessly. This man would throw himself of a moving bus for this girl.
Also CHASE is a dirty-talker 🤭👀
“What do we do now”
“We make the play, Zo”
“That’s slander, but I do love when you talk dirty”
“You’re lucky Im in—obsessed with you. Otherwise I’d leave you here with your dramatic retelling and your sparkly nipple net”
“Its a bralette”
“Its a fishing net with aspirations”
“You gonna punish him later?”
“I’m gonna strangle him with his own jock-strap”
“Oh” “thats foreplay for you too”
“Then I’m gonna stab him with his hockey stick”
“You’re the best thing I’ve ever touched. And I’ll spend the rest of my life learning how to love you better”.
“I fell for her the second she called me a walking liability with abs. I fell harder every time she saw through my bullshit, every-time she challenged me. Every-time she didn’t let me get away with being the clown everyone expected me to be. I’ve been falling ever since, and I’ll keep falling until the day I die.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
HAILEY RODGER WHAT IS THIS NEW ADDICTION I HAVE.
Zoe was so spicy towards him. Like the whole book she insulted him 🤣 I LOVED IT. I was cackling all the way through. I’m gonna put some quotes at the bottom for y’all to see how bad you need to read this too.
This fake dating, enemies to lovers was so fucking good. Like these one liners Hailey writes in here perfect. Her witt and banter is some of the BEST I’ve come across.
Chase did EVERYTHING TO PROTECT HER. I love how he re-made contracts for her, and stood up for her shamelessly. This man would throw himself of a moving bus for this girl.
Also CHASE is a dirty-talker 🤭👀
“What do we do now”
“We make the play, Zo”
“That’s slander, but I do love when you talk dirty”
“You’re lucky Im in—obsessed with you. Otherwise I’d leave you here with your dramatic retelling and your sparkly nipple net”
“Its a bralette”
“Its a fishing net with aspirations”
“You gonna punish him later?”
“I’m gonna strangle him with his own jock-strap”
“Oh” “thats foreplay for you too”
“Then I’m gonna stab him with his hockey stick”
“You’re the best thing I’ve ever touched. And I’ll spend the rest of my life learning how to love you better”.
“I fell for her the second she called me a walking liability with abs. I fell harder every time she saw through my bullshit, every-time she challenged me. Every-time she didn’t let me get away with being the clown everyone expected me to be. I’ve been falling ever since, and I’ll keep falling until the day I die.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
June 12, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 5⭐️ Hailey is 100% an auto read author for me and I loved loved loved Chase and Zoe’s story! For years Chase has been causing Zoe headache after headache. As the head of PR for the Colorado Storm Zoe is no stranger to having to put out fires and unfortunately most of those fires involve Chase Walton. Little does she know Chase has been in love with her for years and getting under her skin is just sort of the fun. The tension continues to build until they give into it one night and one night only. When another PR storm surfaces the only logical solution the team can come up with is for Zoe to become Chase’s fake girlfriend. Date Chase, restore his reputation, go their separate ways. It’s simple. That is until a threat to Zoe’s safety causes her to move in with Chase. The more time they spend together the more Zoe uncovers the true Chase and whats underneath his cocky and arrogant persona. How long will she be able to hold off until she can’t help but to give in to the pull between them? Oh my goodness there was so much depth from the get go in this book and I was obsessed. The banter and tension between the two was evident in the first book of the series so finally getting into the characters heads revealed so much about them. It was fun seeing all the ways Chase purposely tried to get under Zoe’s skin. He also doesn’t hesitate to jump in as her protector when things don’t seem right. The whole forced proximity of them living together was GOLD. Gosh everything was just so good! I am obsessed with every character in this series!! I love the banter between the whole crew and all of their meals together. I can’t wait for more to come from the Colorado Storm world!! Oh and you should definitely catch up and read this one ASAP!!!
Tropes:
✨One Night Stand to Fake Dating
✨Hockey Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Frenemies to Lovers
✨Found Family
Tropes:
✨One Night Stand to Fake Dating
✨Hockey Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Frenemies to Lovers
✨Found Family
June 8, 2025
This is my second book with Hailey Rodger and dare I say this book was better than the last!
Zoe and Chase's story starts in the first book. Chase is TROUBLE and Zoe is tasked with managing all of his PR nightmares over the course of the last book in the background to get us to this book which shines a light on Chase and why he may be hiding behind all the jokes and witty banter with Zoe.
I was kicking my feet the entire book because Zoe gives as good as she takes from Chase and one night of passion between these two leads to them having to 'fake date.' Little does Zoe know that Chase has ALWAYS had a thing for Zoe. He would follow her any where.. He is the gold retriever and he is ready to crawl to his woman.
This heartfelt story shows that if you keep showing up maybe the person you love will finally stop keeping you at a distance and realize that they deserve the love you're willing to give and accept it.
Trigger warnings... She has a stalker. There was a slight kidnapping and she was kind of drugged. So, maybe read those TW and take a moment if you need to while reading. I will tell you it does end in a HEA so, there's that.
Zoe and Chase's story starts in the first book. Chase is TROUBLE and Zoe is tasked with managing all of his PR nightmares over the course of the last book in the background to get us to this book which shines a light on Chase and why he may be hiding behind all the jokes and witty banter with Zoe.
I was kicking my feet the entire book because Zoe gives as good as she takes from Chase and one night of passion between these two leads to them having to 'fake date.' Little does Zoe know that Chase has ALWAYS had a thing for Zoe. He would follow her any where.. He is the gold retriever and he is ready to crawl to his woman.
This heartfelt story shows that if you keep showing up maybe the person you love will finally stop keeping you at a distance and realize that they deserve the love you're willing to give and accept it.
Trigger warnings... She has a stalker. There was a slight kidnapping and she was kind of drugged. So, maybe read those TW and take a moment if you need to while reading. I will tell you it does end in a HEA so, there's that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2025
4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5 for GR
3.75🌶️
Huge thank you to Hailey & Luna Literary for sending me an ARC!
OH MY GOD!
Okay now I have that out of my system, this is the first book by Hailey that I’ve read & I can assure you it will not be my last. I ATE THIS UP & LEFT NO CRUMBS!
The banter and the chemistry & the tension between Chase & Zoe had me kicking my feet so hard! I genuinely laughed so much at their chirping and how it just flowed so easily for them!
Tropes to expect!
🏒Hockey romance
🩷Fake dating
🏒Frenemies to lovers
🩷Spicy banter
🏒He 💦 in his pants
🩷Found family
I laughed with them. I cried with them and I got a little 🥵 because THAT TENT SCENE. JESUS CHRIST💦💦💦
Zoe did frustrate me as she kept putting walls up but as the story went on it was clear to see why but I love that Chase never stopped, he loved her loudly but quiet when she needed it and I just love him!😍
The love declaration HOLY MOLY. It was genuinely something out of a noughties romcom!
Wanna know more? Make The Play is out now!! Available on Kindle Unlimited & paperback!🩷
June 12, 2025
This story begins with a sultry sexy start that will take you along for an exciting ride! Chase and Zoe have such amazing chemistry! The fact that he’s been into her for years will make you weak in the knees!
My only recommendation for new readers is that you read the first book before diving into Make the Play. A lot of the characters are introduced in book one and it was a little confusing trying to figure out who everyone was by jumping in with book two.
Regardless I throughly enjoyed the story! I’m obsessed with hockey romance and fake dating and couldn’t get enough of the other tropes in this story! Take a look below to see what you’re in store for 😘
🏒 Must Read Tropes 🏒
★ Pro Hockey x PR Exec
⛸️ Fake Dating
★ Frenemies to Lovers
⛸️ One Night Stand
★ Spice & Banter
⛸️ Found Family
★ He Falls First
My only recommendation for new readers is that you read the first book before diving into Make the Play. A lot of the characters are introduced in book one and it was a little confusing trying to figure out who everyone was by jumping in with book two.
Regardless I throughly enjoyed the story! I’m obsessed with hockey romance and fake dating and couldn’t get enough of the other tropes in this story! Take a look below to see what you’re in store for 😘
🏒 Must Read Tropes 🏒
★ Pro Hockey x PR Exec
⛸️ Fake Dating
★ Frenemies to Lovers
⛸️ One Night Stand
★ Spice & Banter
⛸️ Found Family
★ He Falls First
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