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Elite Eagles Legacy #1
The Billionaire and the Bride
I’m Leon Hill, ex-hockey player, sports agent, and in so much trouble!
I have been in love with my best friend’s little sister for as long as I can remember.
But she’s off limits. Forbidden.
And now she’s getting married.
Until she’s not.
Erica Johansson becomes a runaway bride, ending up in my arms. I should turn her away. Tell her no, but the idea of having her is all too tempting.
Instead, we do something crazy and I finally get the woman I’ve craved all these years.
But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that our timing is never right. And a bang on the head, where I forget everything, is just another reminder of that.
Right now, my heart is as battered as the puck in the closing minutes of the Stanley Cup, and I’m starting to wonder if maybe this love story was just never meant to be.
I have been in love with my best friend’s little sister for as long as I can remember.
But she’s off limits. Forbidden.
And now she’s getting married.
Until she’s not.
Erica Johansson becomes a runaway bride, ending up in my arms. I should turn her away. Tell her no, but the idea of having her is all too tempting.
Instead, we do something crazy and I finally get the woman I’ve craved all these years.
But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that our timing is never right. And a bang on the head, where I forget everything, is just another reminder of that.
Right now, my heart is as battered as the puck in the closing minutes of the Stanley Cup, and I’m starting to wonder if maybe this love story was just never meant to be.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2026
About the author
V.H. Nicolson
19 books545 followersVH Nicolson is an emerging author of contemporary romance. Vicki wrote her first book over lockdown and is now completely smitten with writing love stories with happily ever afters. VH Nicolson was born and raised along the breathtaking coastline in North East Scotland. For more than two decades she’s worked throughout the UK and abroad within the creative marketing and design industry, as a branding strategist and stylist, editor of a magazine and sub-editor of a newspaper. Married to her soul mate, they have one son. She has a weakness for buying too many quirky sparkly jumpers, eating Belgium buns, and walking the endless beaches that surround her beautiful Scottish hometown she’s now moved back to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Did Not Finish
March 14, 2026prior manwhore with too many references and i just read the sample
i also cannot stand a mmc who lets the fmc's brother get in the way of what he wants. grow a pair!
i also cannot stand a mmc who lets the fmc's brother get in the way of what he wants. grow a pair!
March 12, 2026
4.5 best friends stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨️
3 slow-burn 🌶
3 slow-burn 🌶
March 2, 2026
I was very lucky to receive an ARC and honestly couldn't put it down.
Leon and Erika are fabulous main characters and are perfect for each other.
Runaway bride 👰♀
Forbidden love 💔
Friends to Lovers ❤️
Brothers Best Friend 💙
Retired Hockey Player 🏒
Doctor FMC 👩⚕️
Vicki knows how to fantastic write romance with brilliant FMCs and swoony MMCs.
Leon and Erika are fabulous main characters and are perfect for each other.
Runaway bride 👰♀
Forbidden love 💔
Friends to Lovers ❤️
Brothers Best Friend 💙
Retired Hockey Player 🏒
Doctor FMC 👩⚕️
Vicki knows how to fantastic write romance with brilliant FMCs and swoony MMCs.
March 4, 2026
This book has a fabulous MMC and FMC the connection these two have is simple nothing I have read in along time both know each other thoughts, the push and pull these have throughout this book is wanting you to turn the page, not loving Ash I no big brother protect there younger sisters this was a bit extreme.
My heart did break at part that I will not mention as it a spoiler.
Looking forward to the next one
4🌟
My heart did break at part that I will not mention as it a spoiler.
Looking forward to the next one
4🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my. What a story. My heart hurt for Erika. These two and their chemistry.... you could feel the air around them crackle. They are literal soulmates. I ate their story up. I felt everything they felt. Leon is simply amazing. Their love is unbreakable. Another great book by the lovely @vhnicolsonauthor
March 3, 2026
If you love best friends to lovers you will really enjoy this like I did. These two have been friends for so long and there’s so much pining and it’s always so satisfying when they get their happy ever after. I also really enjoyed some old faces appearing from previous books that was a really great surprise. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
March 5, 2026
This was such a good story of loving someone for so long and from afar. Leon and Erika were truly meant to be from the beginning. I loved seeing how they supported one another always. I cant wait to read about Gemma and Buster.
March 4, 2026
I wanted to love this as I love a slow burn and a boy obsessed even friends to lovers, but what I don’t love best friends sister when the brother/friend in question is kind of a selfish over protective jerk who prevents them being together for 20 years! Also I hate the playboy troupe where he sleeps with women because he can’t be with her but does it right in front of her breaking her heart so many times.
Leon was kind of cute however the playboy stuff really just doesn’t make sense if he liked Erika so much. He frustrated me that he wouldn’t fight for Erika not with Ash her brother or with Huck the guy she was going to marry who was horrible to her. He just pinned in the friendship zone.
Erika was good as the strong independent Dr however being soft with Leon but again she frustrated me because she didn’t fight either. However she did fight when Leon got amnesia which redeemed her in my eyes.
Erika and Leon have been friends for 20 years and finally Erika’s brother Ash gives his blessing for them to be together so now Erika is 37 and Leon 43 but obviously they will start a family straight away with zero problems.
I was kind of rushing through this as I knew there was an amnesia troupe so that did spoilt it for me. It did break my heart that Leon remembered everyone but Erika and the fact she still showed up and tried was brilliant not sure I would have had the strength. Also glad he got him memory back.
I liked them as a couple and with their close friendship I got how they moved so quickly but still can’t get over the 20 year wait.
Leon was kind of cute however the playboy stuff really just doesn’t make sense if he liked Erika so much. He frustrated me that he wouldn’t fight for Erika not with Ash her brother or with Huck the guy she was going to marry who was horrible to her. He just pinned in the friendship zone.
Erika was good as the strong independent Dr however being soft with Leon but again she frustrated me because she didn’t fight either. However she did fight when Leon got amnesia which redeemed her in my eyes.
Erika and Leon have been friends for 20 years and finally Erika’s brother Ash gives his blessing for them to be together so now Erika is 37 and Leon 43 but obviously they will start a family straight away with zero problems.
I was kind of rushing through this as I knew there was an amnesia troupe so that did spoilt it for me. It did break my heart that Leon remembered everyone but Erika and the fact she still showed up and tried was brilliant not sure I would have had the strength. Also glad he got him memory back.
I liked them as a couple and with their close friendship I got how they moved so quickly but still can’t get over the 20 year wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2026
I had way too much fun with this book. Best friends to lovers always gets me, but this one hit that sweet spot where the pining is so obvious you want to grab both characters by the shoulders and shake them. Leon and Erika have been orbiting each other for years, and you can feel it in every tiny moment between them. It is that kind of tension that makes you grin at your screen because you know they are both pretending way too hard.
What I loved most was how soft Leon is for her. He has this reputation and this whole confident vibe, but the second Erika is involved he turns into the most loyal, lovesick man alive. It is adorable. He treats her like she is the only person in the room, and honestly, that kind of devotion is dangerous for my heart. You can tell he has been in love with her forever, and watching him finally get the chance to show it was so satisfying.
Erika was just as easy to root for. She has been fighting her feelings for so long that you can feel the relief when she finally lets herself want him. She is strong in that quiet way that sneaks up on you. She tries so hard to do the right thing, even when it hurts, and that made her feel real. I loved seeing her finally choose what she actually wanted instead of what she thought she was supposed to want.
The history between them made everything feel deeper. All the little memories, the almost moments, the times they pulled away even though they clearly did not want to. It made their connection feel lived in, not rushed. And when things finally shift between them, it feels earned. Like the universe finally stopped messing with them for five minutes.
The side characters added so much personality too. Some of them made me laugh, some made me roll my eyes, and some made me want to throw a pillow at the wall. But that is what made the whole story feel alive. It was messy in the best way, full of emotion and timing and all the things that make relationships complicated.
If I had to pick something I did not love, it would be how long they both tried to pretend nothing was happening. I get why, but still, the denial was strong. At the same time, that slow burn made the payoff so much sweeter, so I cannot even be mad about it.
Overall, it felt warm and emotional and a little chaotic, and I loved every second of it. This is the kind of best friends to lovers story that makes you believe timing really can change everything.
What I loved most was how soft Leon is for her. He has this reputation and this whole confident vibe, but the second Erika is involved he turns into the most loyal, lovesick man alive. It is adorable. He treats her like she is the only person in the room, and honestly, that kind of devotion is dangerous for my heart. You can tell he has been in love with her forever, and watching him finally get the chance to show it was so satisfying.
Erika was just as easy to root for. She has been fighting her feelings for so long that you can feel the relief when she finally lets herself want him. She is strong in that quiet way that sneaks up on you. She tries so hard to do the right thing, even when it hurts, and that made her feel real. I loved seeing her finally choose what she actually wanted instead of what she thought she was supposed to want.
The history between them made everything feel deeper. All the little memories, the almost moments, the times they pulled away even though they clearly did not want to. It made their connection feel lived in, not rushed. And when things finally shift between them, it feels earned. Like the universe finally stopped messing with them for five minutes.
The side characters added so much personality too. Some of them made me laugh, some made me roll my eyes, and some made me want to throw a pillow at the wall. But that is what made the whole story feel alive. It was messy in the best way, full of emotion and timing and all the things that make relationships complicated.
If I had to pick something I did not love, it would be how long they both tried to pretend nothing was happening. I get why, but still, the denial was strong. At the same time, that slow burn made the payoff so much sweeter, so I cannot even be mad about it.
Overall, it felt warm and emotional and a little chaotic, and I loved every second of it. This is the kind of best friends to lovers story that makes you believe timing really can change everything.
Read
March 3, 2026A Book that will give you all the Feels, what a read!
I absolutely loved Erika and Leon's story. This has been a while in the making and I am so glad that it happened for the two of them!
Leon has been hopelessly in love with his Best Friends Sister since the first day they met but because of Bro code among Hockey Players. Erika always felt the same about him but understood why they couldn't do anything further than a few stolen kisses when they were younger. Ash had warned all of his Fellow Players that his Sister was completely off limits. Ash became one of Leon's best friends through out the years and that friendship continued long after they stopped playing together.
Leon had gained quite the Reputation for himself along the way but never had any real interest in any of those Women as he only ever had one Woman that really stole his breath away and that was always Erika. When he Retired from Hockey he started his own Company as an Agent for Athletes and had one fantastic set up with a great Team that really looked after the people they represented.
The day that Erika was to marry Huck was one of the hardest for him, he was late on purpose to the Church as he didn't want to witness Erika marrying anyone else. He pulls up and sees Erika running towards him and is in shock. She jumps into the car and tells him Go! When he is leaving, he passes Ash who has a big smile on his face which kind of shocks him. It seems her Big Brother wasn't to upset that his Sister didn't end up marrying the waster that was her Fiance Huck.
Leon brings Erika home with him and her family arrive and all decide that the best thing for her is to go on her Honeymoon to Bali with Leon. This is a Big Surprise all round for both of them but sounds like a great idea as well. They have been the Best of Friends for nearly 20 years with Leon always being there for Erika, calling to the Hospital with food for her when she is working as a Dr there. Collecting her after she worked really long shifts etc.
I'm not going to say anymore as I don't want to Spoil it for you. What I will say is to read Ash and Lily's book first as you will love it. Then read this absolute Cracker of a Book that had me Swoon so much through out it.
Vicki, take a Bow Lady. This Book was everything and more!
I absolutely loved Erika and Leon's story. This has been a while in the making and I am so glad that it happened for the two of them!
Leon has been hopelessly in love with his Best Friends Sister since the first day they met but because of Bro code among Hockey Players. Erika always felt the same about him but understood why they couldn't do anything further than a few stolen kisses when they were younger. Ash had warned all of his Fellow Players that his Sister was completely off limits. Ash became one of Leon's best friends through out the years and that friendship continued long after they stopped playing together.
Leon had gained quite the Reputation for himself along the way but never had any real interest in any of those Women as he only ever had one Woman that really stole his breath away and that was always Erika. When he Retired from Hockey he started his own Company as an Agent for Athletes and had one fantastic set up with a great Team that really looked after the people they represented.
The day that Erika was to marry Huck was one of the hardest for him, he was late on purpose to the Church as he didn't want to witness Erika marrying anyone else. He pulls up and sees Erika running towards him and is in shock. She jumps into the car and tells him Go! When he is leaving, he passes Ash who has a big smile on his face which kind of shocks him. It seems her Big Brother wasn't to upset that his Sister didn't end up marrying the waster that was her Fiance Huck.
Leon brings Erika home with him and her family arrive and all decide that the best thing for her is to go on her Honeymoon to Bali with Leon. This is a Big Surprise all round for both of them but sounds like a great idea as well. They have been the Best of Friends for nearly 20 years with Leon always being there for Erika, calling to the Hospital with food for her when she is working as a Dr there. Collecting her after she worked really long shifts etc.
I'm not going to say anymore as I don't want to Spoil it for you. What I will say is to read Ash and Lily's book first as you will love it. Then read this absolute Cracker of a Book that had me Swoon so much through out it.
Vicki, take a Bow Lady. This Book was everything and more!
March 3, 2026
4.5⭐
2 5🌶️
When you pick up one of Vicki's books, you can pretty much guarantee it'll be an amazing read. I absolutely adored Leon and Erika's love story. It was literally like a fairytale and magical doesn't even begin to describe it!
Having first met when Erika was 18, she has crushed hard on her brother's (Ash) teammate, Leon. She knows they could never be, and with Leon being the ultimate playboy, her heart would end up in shreds. Ash also makes her Erika untouchable to his teammates, but the connection between Leon and Erika is so profound, they can't help but be within each others orbit. Hence, a friendship which spans over two decades, with glimpses into the push and pull that Leon and Erika share. They have always been the right person, wrong time but when the stars finally align for them both, Leon has an accident and wakes up with amnesia, and the most important person in his life is suddenly a stranger to him.
Seriously, the yearning in this book was top notch 🤌🏻 😮💨 Leon and Erika share such a special bond between them that it's obvious for everyone else to see that they were always meant for one another. However, due to Leon's loyalty to Ash and never wanting to jeopardise his and Erika's friendship, it means he can never have the one woman he truly wants.
Honestly, the little back stories of Leon and Erika made their love story that much more compelling. Leon was the ultimate MMC, who was such a simp for Erika and the way he worshipped her... 😮💨🫠 That man was just unreal and I don't think there's anything he wouldn't do for Erika! ❤️🔥
Erika, on the other hand, has fought tooth and nail to fight her affection and love towards Leon for many years, even pushing herself to move on with someone else. When she realises she can't go through with the wedding to Huck, Leon happens to be her getaway driver. It's not until they finally (YES, finally!!) confess their feelings towards each other (with the blessing from Ash) that they realise, they were always meant to be. Gahhhh... my heart is so full for them!!! 💗💗
Thank you to Vicki for the eARC, in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
2 5🌶️
When you pick up one of Vicki's books, you can pretty much guarantee it'll be an amazing read. I absolutely adored Leon and Erika's love story. It was literally like a fairytale and magical doesn't even begin to describe it!
Having first met when Erika was 18, she has crushed hard on her brother's (Ash) teammate, Leon. She knows they could never be, and with Leon being the ultimate playboy, her heart would end up in shreds. Ash also makes her Erika untouchable to his teammates, but the connection between Leon and Erika is so profound, they can't help but be within each others orbit. Hence, a friendship which spans over two decades, with glimpses into the push and pull that Leon and Erika share. They have always been the right person, wrong time but when the stars finally align for them both, Leon has an accident and wakes up with amnesia, and the most important person in his life is suddenly a stranger to him.
Seriously, the yearning in this book was top notch 🤌🏻 😮💨 Leon and Erika share such a special bond between them that it's obvious for everyone else to see that they were always meant for one another. However, due to Leon's loyalty to Ash and never wanting to jeopardise his and Erika's friendship, it means he can never have the one woman he truly wants.
Honestly, the little back stories of Leon and Erika made their love story that much more compelling. Leon was the ultimate MMC, who was such a simp for Erika and the way he worshipped her... 😮💨🫠 That man was just unreal and I don't think there's anything he wouldn't do for Erika! ❤️🔥
Erika, on the other hand, has fought tooth and nail to fight her affection and love towards Leon for many years, even pushing herself to move on with someone else. When she realises she can't go through with the wedding to Huck, Leon happens to be her getaway driver. It's not until they finally (YES, finally!!) confess their feelings towards each other (with the blessing from Ash) that they realise, they were always meant to be. Gahhhh... my heart is so full for them!!! 💗💗
Thank you to Vicki for the eARC, in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
March 7, 2026
Star ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Rating 🌶️🌶️.5
V.H. Nicolson really knows how to make you feel every page, and this book absolutely put me through it.
Leon and Erika’s story was such a beautiful mix of longing, heartbreak, bad timing, and deep, unshakable love. The whole best friend’s sister dynamic already had me interested, but it was the history between them that made this one hit so hard. Years of missed chances, buried feelings, loyalty, and sacrifice made their connection feel so much more emotional than a standard romance.
What I loved most was how strong the yearning was in this book. Leon has loved Erika for so long, but never lets himself fully have her, and that ache runs through the entire story. You could feel how much these two meant to each other, even in the quieter moments. It was one of those romances where you just know they belong together, so watching everything that stands in their way was equal parts beautiful and painful.
Leon completely won me over. For all the billionaire/playboy energy, there is so much heart underneath it, and the way he loves Erika says everything. Erika was also easy to root for, and together they had that kind of chemistry that feels effortless because of how much history sits behind it.
And then, just when you think they might finally get their chance, the story twists the knife again. I was fully emotionally invested by that point and definitely felt it.
This was romantic, angsty, and full of heart, with the kind of love story that keeps you hoping even when it hurts. A really lovely read, especially if you enjoy best friend’s sister, longtime pining, billionaire romance, and right person wrong time.
Tropes
Billionaire
Brother's best friend
Yearning
Forced proximity
Unrequited love
Reformed playboy
Runaway bride
Slow burn
Amnesia
Rating 🌶️🌶️.5
V.H. Nicolson really knows how to make you feel every page, and this book absolutely put me through it.
Leon and Erika’s story was such a beautiful mix of longing, heartbreak, bad timing, and deep, unshakable love. The whole best friend’s sister dynamic already had me interested, but it was the history between them that made this one hit so hard. Years of missed chances, buried feelings, loyalty, and sacrifice made their connection feel so much more emotional than a standard romance.
What I loved most was how strong the yearning was in this book. Leon has loved Erika for so long, but never lets himself fully have her, and that ache runs through the entire story. You could feel how much these two meant to each other, even in the quieter moments. It was one of those romances where you just know they belong together, so watching everything that stands in their way was equal parts beautiful and painful.
Leon completely won me over. For all the billionaire/playboy energy, there is so much heart underneath it, and the way he loves Erika says everything. Erika was also easy to root for, and together they had that kind of chemistry that feels effortless because of how much history sits behind it.
And then, just when you think they might finally get their chance, the story twists the knife again. I was fully emotionally invested by that point and definitely felt it.
This was romantic, angsty, and full of heart, with the kind of love story that keeps you hoping even when it hurts. A really lovely read, especially if you enjoy best friend’s sister, longtime pining, billionaire romance, and right person wrong time.
Tropes
Billionaire
Brother's best friend
Yearning
Forced proximity
Unrequited love
Reformed playboy
Runaway bride
Slow burn
Amnesia
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
5⭐|3🌶|17%🌶frequency
I've been waiting for this story since I finished "Frozen Flames" 😱 So it's almost forever 😎
I thought Frozen Flames was the most painful and heartbreaking book, but no, this one here is even worse. It should be coming with a warning: "You need a big pack of tissues while reading", and honestly, not just while reading. I'll need them for a while 🙈 My poor heart 💔💔💔
Oh, and another warning: "Please don't throw your Kindle". Because yes, I almost done it multiple times 🙈🤬
For everyone who has read Frozen Flames, it's no secret that Leon and Erika have been in love with each other for 20 years. Yes, 20 freaking YEARS!!! This yearning and pining and yearning and pining and... you know... It so broke my heart 💔 Seeing them loving each other so hard but not being able to be together. Don't get me wrong, I love Ash (Erika's brother), but I also hate him SOOOOO much too. This hole with a huge A 🤬 He knows how important love is. He suffered so much himself. OK OK OK, I have to stop 🤐
As I said, that's all, no secret when you've read Frozen Flames. And I highly recommend reading it.
I loved the Easter egg about a special someone, or rather plural 😉 It was so great seeing them again 😍
I think by now you might know me enough to know you won't get a typical review from me 🤣 My space is used up. So my last words are, READ THE BOOK!
Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
5⭐|3🌶|17%🌶frequency
I've been waiting for this story since I finished "Frozen Flames" 😱 So it's almost forever 😎
I thought Frozen Flames was the most painful and heartbreaking book, but no, this one here is even worse. It should be coming with a warning: "You need a big pack of tissues while reading", and honestly, not just while reading. I'll need them for a while 🙈 My poor heart 💔💔💔
Oh, and another warning: "Please don't throw your Kindle". Because yes, I almost done it multiple times 🙈🤬
For everyone who has read Frozen Flames, it's no secret that Leon and Erika have been in love with each other for 20 years. Yes, 20 freaking YEARS!!! This yearning and pining and yearning and pining and... you know... It so broke my heart 💔 Seeing them loving each other so hard but not being able to be together. Don't get me wrong, I love Ash (Erika's brother), but I also hate him SOOOOO much too. This hole with a huge A 🤬 He knows how important love is. He suffered so much himself. OK OK OK, I have to stop 🤐
As I said, that's all, no secret when you've read Frozen Flames. And I highly recommend reading it.
I loved the Easter egg about a special someone, or rather plural 😉 It was so great seeing them again 😍
I think by now you might know me enough to know you won't get a typical review from me 🤣 My space is used up. So my last words are, READ THE BOOK!
Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
Review of advance copy received from Author
V.H. Nicolson has this incredible ability to write stories so full of raw emotion that you completely forget you’re reading words on a page. I was so swept up in this story I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting.
Leon has spent his entire life loving his best friend’s sister in silence. Not wanting to betray his friendship, he sacrifices his own happiness and never tells Erika how he feels…even as he heads to her wedding. But when he spots a runaway bride who looks heartbreakingly familiar, everything changes. What follows is a story of love, sacrifice, timing, and a universe that seems determined to test them at every turn.
What I loved
• Leon and Erika’s chemistry – you can literally feel it crackling through the pages. Their bond is deep, emotional, and completely believable. • Best friends to lovers done perfectly – their history makes every moment between them even more meaningful. • Leon as a hero – V.H. Nicolson writes heroes like no one else, and Leon is no exception. Sweet, protective, devoted… the kind of man who loves with his entire soul. • The emotional rollercoaster – this story made me laugh, swoon (so much swooning), and cry. • The past and present timeline – seeing how their friendship grew, how they suffered, and what they sacrificed made their story even more powerful. • Vicky’s signature humour and strong FMCs – Erika is strong, lovable, and easy to root for. • The Elite Eagles world – these hockey heroes are truly in a league of their own, and Leon fits perfectly into this family. • The cameo from Hunter and Eden from Hunting Eden – the book that made me fall in love with Vicky’s writing. Seeing them again was such a special moment. • The emotional depth – this story is packed with love, humour, heartbreak, and drama in the best possible way.
V.H. Nicolson once again proves that she knows exactly how to write a love story that grips your heart and refuses to let go. I’m so happy to be back in the Elite Eagles world. Bring on the next one!
Leon has spent his entire life loving his best friend’s sister in silence. Not wanting to betray his friendship, he sacrifices his own happiness and never tells Erika how he feels…even as he heads to her wedding. But when he spots a runaway bride who looks heartbreakingly familiar, everything changes. What follows is a story of love, sacrifice, timing, and a universe that seems determined to test them at every turn.
What I loved
• Leon and Erika’s chemistry – you can literally feel it crackling through the pages. Their bond is deep, emotional, and completely believable. • Best friends to lovers done perfectly – their history makes every moment between them even more meaningful. • Leon as a hero – V.H. Nicolson writes heroes like no one else, and Leon is no exception. Sweet, protective, devoted… the kind of man who loves with his entire soul. • The emotional rollercoaster – this story made me laugh, swoon (so much swooning), and cry. • The past and present timeline – seeing how their friendship grew, how they suffered, and what they sacrificed made their story even more powerful. • Vicky’s signature humour and strong FMCs – Erika is strong, lovable, and easy to root for. • The Elite Eagles world – these hockey heroes are truly in a league of their own, and Leon fits perfectly into this family. • The cameo from Hunter and Eden from Hunting Eden – the book that made me fall in love with Vicky’s writing. Seeing them again was such a special moment. • The emotional depth – this story is packed with love, humour, heartbreak, and drama in the best possible way.
V.H. Nicolson once again proves that she knows exactly how to write a love story that grips your heart and refuses to let go. I’m so happy to be back in the Elite Eagles world. Bring on the next one!
March 12, 2026
Leon... Leon... Leon... what am I going to do with you now that you've snuck past Jordy into 3rd place of my favourite VH Nicolson MMCs (Knox will always be number 1 followed by Hunter).
I loved this book right from the start - from Erika running away and jilting the insufferable Huck I knew it was going to be a fantastic read.
VH Nicolson knows how to write a story that pulls you in and makes you fall in love with her characters. The brother's best friend trope is a popular one for a reason but this has added depth because of the author's ability to convey the mutual yearning over the years that they both had for each other without knowing. It's both heartbreaking but uber romantic that they've known how they felt for so long and now they're finally getting their shot at their HEA.
Leon is a mix of swoony ex-hockey player turned filthy mouthed and incredibly hot sports agent billionaire. There's definitely something special about him. And the chemistry... off the charts with these two! I loved Erika as a leading lady - the author excels at writing strong women with a thread of vulnerability and a side of softness running through them. As a couple they seemed perfectly matched
This is a wonderful follow up to the Elite Eagles series and Buster and Gemma's book is going to be perfect!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 absolutely recommend this!
I loved this book right from the start - from Erika running away and jilting the insufferable Huck I knew it was going to be a fantastic read.
VH Nicolson knows how to write a story that pulls you in and makes you fall in love with her characters. The brother's best friend trope is a popular one for a reason but this has added depth because of the author's ability to convey the mutual yearning over the years that they both had for each other without knowing. It's both heartbreaking but uber romantic that they've known how they felt for so long and now they're finally getting their shot at their HEA.
Leon is a mix of swoony ex-hockey player turned filthy mouthed and incredibly hot sports agent billionaire. There's definitely something special about him. And the chemistry... off the charts with these two! I loved Erika as a leading lady - the author excels at writing strong women with a thread of vulnerability and a side of softness running through them. As a couple they seemed perfectly matched
This is a wonderful follow up to the Elite Eagles series and Buster and Gemma's book is going to be perfect!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 absolutely recommend this!
March 2, 2026
We've waited for this first novel in the new Elite Eagles Legacy series for what seems like such a long time BUT I never realised that Erika was Ash's sister until I started reading. So that was a lovely surprise.
We know Leon from the Elite Eagles novels, most especially as Wade's agent in Wild Blades.
Well, forget that Leon because Erika’s Leon is a Leon we would all want for ourselves!
I cannot believe how amazingly swoon worthy he has turned out to be.
I hate that this 'meant to be' couple have waited so long for their chance at true happiness and all because of Leon's loyalty to his best friend. A best friend who, with some guidance, sees what everyone but Erika sees...Leon's feelings for her!
I absolutely adored Leon and Erika. I loved that the seeming 'instalove' was almost 20 years in the making but they didn't let the grass grow under their feet.
I really thought their torture was over but VH Nicolson managed a curve ball from out of left field that could have derailed the amazing love these two have for each other.
I promise that you are not going to be able to put this novel down, it is so good!
A fantastic addition to anyone's tbr.
We know Leon from the Elite Eagles novels, most especially as Wade's agent in Wild Blades.
Well, forget that Leon because Erika’s Leon is a Leon we would all want for ourselves!
I cannot believe how amazingly swoon worthy he has turned out to be.
I hate that this 'meant to be' couple have waited so long for their chance at true happiness and all because of Leon's loyalty to his best friend. A best friend who, with some guidance, sees what everyone but Erika sees...Leon's feelings for her!
I absolutely adored Leon and Erika. I loved that the seeming 'instalove' was almost 20 years in the making but they didn't let the grass grow under their feet.
I really thought their torture was over but VH Nicolson managed a curve ball from out of left field that could have derailed the amazing love these two have for each other.
I promise that you are not going to be able to put this novel down, it is so good!
A fantastic addition to anyone's tbr.
Read
February 24, 2026Review
The Billionaire & The R̶u̶n̶a̶w̶a̶y̶ Bride @VHNicolson.
Available 2nd March
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️
It feels like we have been waiting for Leon's story for a long time, but he was definitely worth the wait. I absolutely adored Leon and Erika they have secretly pined for each other for nearly 20years and finally they both get to experience true love with each other. My heart could not take in in parts and tissues were required. The yearning these two both had for each other, despite being heartbreaking was also beautiful in Leon, putting his feelings aside, and the little things he did for her continually over the years. I loved this from page one and getting to see Ash and Hunter and Eden again makes me need to plan in a re read again asap from the very beginning of Vicki's writing journey!
As usual Vicki writes the most beautiful stories, I have never not picked one up and not become obsessed from the beginning.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this journey with you and can't wait for my next favourite.
The Billionaire & The R̶u̶n̶a̶w̶a̶y̶ Bride @VHNicolson.
Available 2nd March
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️
It feels like we have been waiting for Leon's story for a long time, but he was definitely worth the wait. I absolutely adored Leon and Erika they have secretly pined for each other for nearly 20years and finally they both get to experience true love with each other. My heart could not take in in parts and tissues were required. The yearning these two both had for each other, despite being heartbreaking was also beautiful in Leon, putting his feelings aside, and the little things he did for her continually over the years. I loved this from page one and getting to see Ash and Hunter and Eden again makes me need to plan in a re read again asap from the very beginning of Vicki's writing journey!
As usual Vicki writes the most beautiful stories, I have never not picked one up and not become obsessed from the beginning.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this journey with you and can't wait for my next favourite.
March 2, 2026
Review of an ARC
WOW
This story really had you going right til the very end!
I loved Leon, after us having glimpses of him in the elites series it was nice to get to read his story and boy did it not disappoint!
I will say that there is an amnesia trope here and although it's not everyone's tea, it was really worth it and Vicki wrote it perfectly into the book.
We've got Leon, ex hockey player now turned sports agent in love with his best friend's sister. And by best friend we mean Ash's sister Erika! He's been in love with her for as long as he can remember and this man has fought so hard! It's forbidden love after all but isn't that the best kind? 😉
Their story is full of love, romance, tensions, chemistry until it isn't and Leon's knock to his head threatens it all...
I really felt for Erika in this and she went through a lot. But Vicki wrote each of them so perfectly and if you've wondered about Leon since meeting him in the Ash's book then you'll want to read this! Another great read from Vicki!
WOW
This story really had you going right til the very end!
I loved Leon, after us having glimpses of him in the elites series it was nice to get to read his story and boy did it not disappoint!
I will say that there is an amnesia trope here and although it's not everyone's tea, it was really worth it and Vicki wrote it perfectly into the book.
We've got Leon, ex hockey player now turned sports agent in love with his best friend's sister. And by best friend we mean Ash's sister Erika! He's been in love with her for as long as he can remember and this man has fought so hard! It's forbidden love after all but isn't that the best kind? 😉
Their story is full of love, romance, tensions, chemistry until it isn't and Leon's knock to his head threatens it all...
I really felt for Erika in this and she went through a lot. But Vicki wrote each of them so perfectly and if you've wondered about Leon since meeting him in the Ash's book then you'll want to read this! Another great read from Vicki!
March 4, 2026
📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Billionaire & the Runaway Bride - @vhnicolsonauthor
You know it's going to be a great day when a Vicki book drops on your kindle. She is a wonderful storyteller and always has me hooked straightaway no matter what she writes.
This book has been a long time coming as we have been waiting for Leon's story for awhile. It did not disappoint as she delivers an emotionally raw story.
Leon has been in love with his best friends sister for as long as he can remember but wanting to be loyal to his friend, Ash he keeps his feelings to himself. When he is attending Erika's wedding he notices her running away and ends up helping her escape.
From here this is where the story really picks up. We are treated to flashbacks so we get a proper insight to Leon and Erikas friendship even though they have always wanted more from each other. I particularly enjoyed the flashback scenes.
The best friends to lovers was executed well and I loved the bond between the two characters.
The book certainly took me on a rollercoaster but I was all too happy to be along for the ride.
The Billionaire & the Runaway Bride - @vhnicolsonauthor
You know it's going to be a great day when a Vicki book drops on your kindle. She is a wonderful storyteller and always has me hooked straightaway no matter what she writes.
This book has been a long time coming as we have been waiting for Leon's story for awhile. It did not disappoint as she delivers an emotionally raw story.
Leon has been in love with his best friends sister for as long as he can remember but wanting to be loyal to his friend, Ash he keeps his feelings to himself. When he is attending Erika's wedding he notices her running away and ends up helping her escape.
From here this is where the story really picks up. We are treated to flashbacks so we get a proper insight to Leon and Erikas friendship even though they have always wanted more from each other. I particularly enjoyed the flashback scenes.
The best friends to lovers was executed well and I loved the bond between the two characters.
The book certainly took me on a rollercoaster but I was all too happy to be along for the ride.
March 4, 2026
If you love a friends to lovers trope then you will love Leon and Erika’s book. There’s so much mutual pining between these best friends, even if they are both oblivious to each other’s true feelings.
Erika has always been off limits being the little sister of Leon’s team mate and best friend, Ash. But when he see’s her running down the street on her wedding day, of course he helps the runaway bride.
Is this the chance he’s been waiting for to confess his true feelings?
After a whirlwind of events things are finally looking up for Leon and Erika…. Until Leon suffers a bump to the head and forgets everything!
My heart broke for Erica, she just can’t seem to catch a break. Leon was the perfect book boyfriend with a filthy mouth and I was here for it! 🤣 all the little details and things he does for Erica will have you swooning.
I look forward to reading book 2 in this series.
🩺Runaway Bride
🏒Ex-Pro Hockey Player
🩺Brothers Best Friend
🏒Slow Burn Tension
🩺Amnesia
🏒Friends to Lovers
🍆He’s Pierced!
Erika has always been off limits being the little sister of Leon’s team mate and best friend, Ash. But when he see’s her running down the street on her wedding day, of course he helps the runaway bride.
Is this the chance he’s been waiting for to confess his true feelings?
After a whirlwind of events things are finally looking up for Leon and Erika…. Until Leon suffers a bump to the head and forgets everything!
My heart broke for Erica, she just can’t seem to catch a break. Leon was the perfect book boyfriend with a filthy mouth and I was here for it! 🤣 all the little details and things he does for Erica will have you swooning.
I look forward to reading book 2 in this series.
🩺Runaway Bride
🏒Ex-Pro Hockey Player
🩺Brothers Best Friend
🏒Slow Burn Tension
🩺Amnesia
🏒Friends to Lovers
🍆He’s Pierced!
March 3, 2026
The ultimate friends to lovers over the decades, and doing what was right for siblings, friends, but not for themselves, but Erica and Leon were not 'just friends', they were best friends. Always there for each other no matter what, stealing moments, crossing into what they both craved, but before things went further pulling back. And, feeling the hurt.
There was so much angst and hurt within this book, but what was also clear, is how much these two are each other's soulmate. And, Leon, behind the tag of billionaire playboy, is whom Erica needs when she runs away from her wedding. Throughout we see where these two of come from and the times that their head had to dictate what happened next, denying their feelings and what they wanted once again.
There are some truly heartbreaking moments, even when all the stars seem to have aligned an accident leaves them wondering if they are ever meant to have their happily ever after!
There was so much angst and hurt within this book, but what was also clear, is how much these two are each other's soulmate. And, Leon, behind the tag of billionaire playboy, is whom Erica needs when she runs away from her wedding. Throughout we see where these two of come from and the times that their head had to dictate what happened next, denying their feelings and what they wanted once again.
There are some truly heartbreaking moments, even when all the stars seem to have aligned an accident leaves them wondering if they are ever meant to have their happily ever after!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all: did you see those heels Erika is wearing on that cover????? I‘m so in love with them 😍
Now that I got that off my chest, let’s talk about the book. Leon and Erika are such a cute couple. The fact that they haven’t lived their life together (I‘m looking at you, Ash 😡) makes me a little bit sad. They lost so much time. But in that time they had the opportunity to mature and become wonderful friends. Leon is such a sweet man. He loves Erika so much and takes such good care of her. I feel like we all need a friend/partner like him in our lives.
No one writes heroes the way VH Nicolson does. No one. And these hockey guys are in a league of their own. Leon fits perfectly into the Elite Eagles family.
This book is a standalone, but to understand the dynamics better, I recommend reading Frozen Flames first.
Now that I got that off my chest, let’s talk about the book. Leon and Erika are such a cute couple. The fact that they haven’t lived their life together (I‘m looking at you, Ash 😡) makes me a little bit sad. They lost so much time. But in that time they had the opportunity to mature and become wonderful friends. Leon is such a sweet man. He loves Erika so much and takes such good care of her. I feel like we all need a friend/partner like him in our lives.
No one writes heroes the way VH Nicolson does. No one. And these hockey guys are in a league of their own. Leon fits perfectly into the Elite Eagles family.
This book is a standalone, but to understand the dynamics better, I recommend reading Frozen Flames first.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is a spinoff from the Elite Eaglestone series that I really enjoyed. This book can be read standalone
I thought this book was really cute. The slow burn and yearning on this book is so well written And it just builds. Erika has been in love with her brothers best friend for years and despite moments when they have grown Ben into their feeling between them they have remained apart to a long time. The story starts as she is due to get married and runs out just as Leon arrives and he helps her escape. No spoilers but events follow and you watch them slowly coming together. There’s a real story twist and it keeps the story moving at pace. This story is fun yet a great mix of yearning - it’s always been you and some spice.
I received this as an ARC - these are my views given voluntarily
I thought this book was really cute. The slow burn and yearning on this book is so well written And it just builds. Erika has been in love with her brothers best friend for years and despite moments when they have grown Ben into their feeling between them they have remained apart to a long time. The story starts as she is due to get married and runs out just as Leon arrives and he helps her escape. No spoilers but events follow and you watch them slowly coming together. There’s a real story twist and it keeps the story moving at pace. This story is fun yet a great mix of yearning - it’s always been you and some spice.
I received this as an ARC - these are my views given voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book in a new series from one of my favourite authors.
We have a true tale of unrequited love. Brothers best friend and a story of true love conquering all.
Erika is mins from being married when she realises she doesn’t love the groom. She fleas the wedding and straight int the arms of Leon her brothers (and her) best friend.
Erika has loved Leon for years. He has loved her as well but because of an agreement with his friend (Ash from Elite eagles) he doesn’t do anything
These 2 move quickly once they have that conversation and face some obstacles in the shape of her former fiancé who sells stories saying she cheated.
We have
Brothers best friend
Accidental engagement/marriage
Slow burn
Forced proximity
Love later in life
Accident causing amnesia
If this sounds like the one for you then grab your copy today
We have a true tale of unrequited love. Brothers best friend and a story of true love conquering all.
Erika is mins from being married when she realises she doesn’t love the groom. She fleas the wedding and straight int the arms of Leon her brothers (and her) best friend.
Erika has loved Leon for years. He has loved her as well but because of an agreement with his friend (Ash from Elite eagles) he doesn’t do anything
These 2 move quickly once they have that conversation and face some obstacles in the shape of her former fiancé who sells stories saying she cheated.
We have
Brothers best friend
Accidental engagement/marriage
Slow burn
Forced proximity
Love later in life
Accident causing amnesia
If this sounds like the one for you then grab your copy today
March 4, 2026
Loved Leon and Erika. My heart hurt for Erika and Leon and how much they longed for each other from afar for so long and the struggle to accept what is and move on. Only if something isn’t right it never settles and thankfully Erika realizes it before she says I do to the wrong person only to have her best friend, a man she made herself pretend not to love be her saving grace. And this time Leon isn’t letting the chance pass him by after watching from the sidelines for far too long. It’s his mission to show her how he feels and when their family intervenes to push them along the perfect plan presents itself. It starts unexpected but turns into the perfect week until tragedy strikes. What is just the start of their journey turns into a mountain to get over together. Couldn’t put this story down!
March 4, 2026
this was utterly adorable!!
Tell me why for the first few chapter when she’s in her dress all I could think was Bruno Mars “run, run, run away, run away baby” 🤣
The heartache you felt on how long they’ve wasted not being together due to her brother when all along he was fine and didn’t realise until Lily told him 🥹
The small details you over look until you get to him having all the flashbacks that you realise just how utterly obsessed with her he is!
Huck is a twat that won’t disappear.
The Bora Bora vacation had me kicking my feet! But when I read the part of his accident and then her rushing to his room for him to not remember her!! The heartache.
The spice in this book is a solid 4 🌶️.. boy does our guy have a filthy mouth 🥵
Without too much spoilers, I really did enjoy this and highly recommend it
Tell me why for the first few chapter when she’s in her dress all I could think was Bruno Mars “run, run, run away, run away baby” 🤣
The heartache you felt on how long they’ve wasted not being together due to her brother when all along he was fine and didn’t realise until Lily told him 🥹
The small details you over look until you get to him having all the flashbacks that you realise just how utterly obsessed with her he is!
Huck is a twat that won’t disappear.
The Bora Bora vacation had me kicking my feet! But when I read the part of his accident and then her rushing to his room for him to not remember her!! The heartache.
The spice in this book is a solid 4 🌶️.. boy does our guy have a filthy mouth 🥵
Without too much spoilers, I really did enjoy this and highly recommend it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2026
When you read a VH Nicolson book, you just know you get a good story.
This one isn't any different.
You might have met Leon and Erika before in Frozen Flames (and some other people in this book as well .... hehe).
This was such a beautiful story, 20 years in the making!
Leon and Erika have been yearning for so long, so when the time is finally there.... oh my!
Loved this true love story, it is pure love from both sides and Ash and the others after they meet at Leon's appartment to talk to both. Loved it!
Had to put down my Kindle for a moment as something I read came really close (been there) and I wanted to process it before reading more.
It's hard to write a review without any big spoilers, so I will just stop. Go read it! It's beautiful!
Brother's best friend, runaway bride, best friends to lovers and sooooo much more!
Enjoy! An easy 5 star!
This one isn't any different.
You might have met Leon and Erika before in Frozen Flames (and some other people in this book as well .... hehe).
This was such a beautiful story, 20 years in the making!
Leon and Erika have been yearning for so long, so when the time is finally there.... oh my!
Loved this true love story, it is pure love from both sides and Ash and the others after they meet at Leon's appartment to talk to both. Loved it!
Had to put down my Kindle for a moment as something I read came really close (been there) and I wanted to process it before reading more.
It's hard to write a review without any big spoilers, so I will just stop. Go read it! It's beautiful!
Brother's best friend, runaway bride, best friends to lovers and sooooo much more!
Enjoy! An easy 5 star!
March 7, 2026
ARC REVIEW ✨
3.5 ⭐️
Best friend’s sister has always been in the top 5 tropes for me. So I was excited to receive this ARC & venture in the world of Leon & Erika. Im not sure if it is because I was in a reading slump and I wouldve finished this in 2 days but unfortunately for me that was not the case. The first half of the book dragged. I found myself skimming through sentences to move along. It didnt get good for me until the accident; which I completely had forgotten about myself. The pace picked up and i found myself not wanting to put down my kindle & kept rooting for their HEA. I feel I wouldve rated it higher had the first half been condensed and not dragged on so long. We understood the love they had for eachother all those years, no need to continue to keep us waiting. Looking forward to Gemma & Buster.
3.5 ⭐️
Best friend’s sister has always been in the top 5 tropes for me. So I was excited to receive this ARC & venture in the world of Leon & Erika. Im not sure if it is because I was in a reading slump and I wouldve finished this in 2 days but unfortunately for me that was not the case. The first half of the book dragged. I found myself skimming through sentences to move along. It didnt get good for me until the accident; which I completely had forgotten about myself. The pace picked up and i found myself not wanting to put down my kindle & kept rooting for their HEA. I feel I wouldve rated it higher had the first half been condensed and not dragged on so long. We understood the love they had for eachother all those years, no need to continue to keep us waiting. Looking forward to Gemma & Buster.
February 22, 2026
Loved this story and although I am not one to like flash backs, these were short and didn’t slow the story down.
Friends that always should have been more finally have a wake up call (from everyone). Yes, he has a past but she always knew about it and handles it fabulously.
We see his team mates making appearances as well as Hunter and Eva, although it did take me a moment to realise who they were as it has been some time since I read their book!
Loved the story and the amnesia element was handled so well, I had been worried about how I would like this as I have not enjoyed it in the past but this was done well and was not dragged out.
Highly recommend and looking forward to reading the next book.
Friends that always should have been more finally have a wake up call (from everyone). Yes, he has a past but she always knew about it and handles it fabulously.
We see his team mates making appearances as well as Hunter and Eva, although it did take me a moment to realise who they were as it has been some time since I read their book!
Loved the story and the amnesia element was handled so well, I had been worried about how I would like this as I have not enjoyed it in the past but this was done well and was not dragged out.
Highly recommend and looking forward to reading the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
along awaited book . this is a long slow burn their initial attraction was in early 20th they are now in their late 30s early 40s Erika is Leon's best friends Ash ( from frozen flames) little sister ash has warned Leon off from anything with her all those years ago but they remained closed friends
she's due to get married but doesn't go through who's her knight in purple supercar. he finds her running away from the ceremony.
this is a book with so many twists we get to see more of Lily and Ash, yes lily the pocket rocket is still the boss🤣 .
we also get a cross over and see Eden and Hunter from her first ever book Hunting Eden with one of their grown up triplets Hope .
I hope we get more of them and their stories in future .
such a great riveting read
she's due to get married but doesn't go through who's her knight in purple supercar. he finds her running away from the ceremony.
this is a book with so many twists we get to see more of Lily and Ash, yes lily the pocket rocket is still the boss🤣 .
we also get a cross over and see Eden and Hunter from her first ever book Hunting Eden with one of their grown up triplets Hope .
I hope we get more of them and their stories in future .
such a great riveting read
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