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For The Arena #2
Take the Risk
He's my brother's best friend, the stern hockey captain. The boy who broke my heart.
Five years ago, Denali and I fell into that stupid teenage love that gives romance a bad taste. The end. Good riddance. I thought that was the last I'd ever seen of him.
Until my brother introduces me to his new hockey captain. Denali.
Uptight, intimidating, with muscles for the puck bunnies to fawn over, Denali has a career carved towards the NHL. Everybody knows him as a man to push away distractions and scoff at relationships.
But when we're reintroduced, everything changes.
He cooks me breakfast, writes me love letters, and listens to me in a way I've never experienced before, especially our first time around. From his interviews at hockey games to his team placing bets on our relationship, he's staked a clear claim on me.
Denali's determined to prove he's not the boy from five years ago.
And maybe, just maybe, I'll let him prove me wrong.
[Take the Risk is a slowburn second chance college hockey romance with so much tension, angst, and a found family like no other! There are heavier topics explored in this novel. For a list of CWs please go to the author's site!]
Five years ago, Denali and I fell into that stupid teenage love that gives romance a bad taste. The end. Good riddance. I thought that was the last I'd ever seen of him.
Until my brother introduces me to his new hockey captain. Denali.
Uptight, intimidating, with muscles for the puck bunnies to fawn over, Denali has a career carved towards the NHL. Everybody knows him as a man to push away distractions and scoff at relationships.
But when we're reintroduced, everything changes.
He cooks me breakfast, writes me love letters, and listens to me in a way I've never experienced before, especially our first time around. From his interviews at hockey games to his team placing bets on our relationship, he's staked a clear claim on me.
Denali's determined to prove he's not the boy from five years ago.
And maybe, just maybe, I'll let him prove me wrong.
[Take the Risk is a slowburn second chance college hockey romance with so much tension, angst, and a found family like no other! There are heavier topics explored in this novel. For a list of CWs please go to the author's site!]
ebook
Published March 3, 2026
119 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Bree Hayden
6 books352 followersA lover of romances, it’s not unusual to find Bree Hayden curled up with a book, sobbing her eyes out. On the off chance she’s doing real-life things, she resides in Washington, tries to get birds to whistle along with her, and enjoys baking ancient recipes in the hopes one actually tastes good.
Check out Bree’s newsletter for playlists (they’re pretty good), upcoming character art (that’s way better), chances to read her books before anybody else (!!!), and free extra stories about the characters in her novels (the best!!!)
Check out Bree’s newsletter for playlists (they’re pretty good), upcoming character art (that’s way better), chances to read her books before anybody else (!!!), and free extra stories about the characters in her novels (the best!!!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews
April 3, 2026
3.5 ✨
It was a very long book, way longer than I expected 🫠.
I'm pretty sure some of these chapters could have been compressed into less pages, because by the end I didn't feel like their story needed soooo many pages ... I feel like Ross, from Friends... so many pages, FRONT AND BACK!! Maybe it was me though? Since it took me around 3 weeks to finish it. I might not have been in the right disposition to read such a long book 😅.
Long story short, they were a cute couple. I understand her judgemental attitude at the start, when they reconnected. But by the end I still feel like he loved her more 😅. So I have mixed feelings about that.
The pacing was fine, since they needed to reconnect and regain trust in multiple ways.
The spice was nice, too hurried sometimes though, considering how many pages this book had. But it was fine, it blended well with the plot and relationship development.
I might want to read the next ones in the series, there were some interesting side characters.
........................................................................
Thanks to the author for the ARC! 🫶
✨✨✨
ps: what a cute cover, and it's the real deal, such a good artist 😍
It was a very long book, way longer than I expected 🫠.
I'm pretty sure some of these chapters could have been compressed into less pages, because by the end I didn't feel like their story needed soooo many pages ... I feel like Ross, from Friends... so many pages, FRONT AND BACK!! Maybe it was me though? Since it took me around 3 weeks to finish it. I might not have been in the right disposition to read such a long book 😅.
Long story short, they were a cute couple. I understand her judgemental attitude at the start, when they reconnected. But by the end I still feel like he loved her more 😅. So I have mixed feelings about that.
The pacing was fine, since they needed to reconnect and regain trust in multiple ways.
The spice was nice, too hurried sometimes though, considering how many pages this book had. But it was fine, it blended well with the plot and relationship development.
I might want to read the next ones in the series, there were some interesting side characters.
........................................................................
Thanks to the author for the ARC! 🫶
✨✨✨
ps: what a cute cover, and it's the real deal, such a good artist 😍
Read
February 21, 2026DNF
so many things about this just felt unrealistic to me. him being unrecognizable to both her and her brother despite them being close years ago was odd. some of the dialogue was also strange to me — the scene where she snaps at him for the way he’s talking to his teammate as if he’s not the literal captain of the team…. their backstory also just felt super disorganized and i was so confused 😭 i really wanted to like this but it just was not for me
so many things about this just felt unrealistic to me. him being unrecognizable to both her and her brother despite them being close years ago was odd. some of the dialogue was also strange to me — the scene where she snaps at him for the way he’s talking to his teammate as if he’s not the literal captain of the team…. their backstory also just felt super disorganized and i was so confused 😭 i really wanted to like this but it just was not for me
March 3, 2026
I truly enjoyed this one. The writing is fluid and pulled me straight into the story.
Both MCs start off very closed-off, which made it even more satisfying to watch their journey back to each other. Five years before, they left things abruptly and painfully so seeing them slowly move towards understanding and closure, it felt earned.
The tension was absolutely delivered. It had me hooked every single chapter.
And the smut chapters are also very well done. I loved their dynamic and the way they explore each other, because it felt intentional, mature and perfectly aligned with their age and personalities.
Denali is definitely not your typical fluffy MMC, oh no, not even close. He’s obsessive, a little stalker-ish but fiercely devoted. And Zariah matches him energy for energy.
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
Both MCs start off very closed-off, which made it even more satisfying to watch their journey back to each other. Five years before, they left things abruptly and painfully so seeing them slowly move towards understanding and closure, it felt earned.
The tension was absolutely delivered. It had me hooked every single chapter.
And the smut chapters are also very well done. I loved their dynamic and the way they explore each other, because it felt intentional, mature and perfectly aligned with their age and personalities.
Denali is definitely not your typical fluffy MMC, oh no, not even close. He’s obsessive, a little stalker-ish but fiercely devoted. And Zariah matches him energy for energy.
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.
hard-dnf-s
March 1, 2026Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this as an arc.
DNFd on March 1st, 2026, at 21% (126 pages).
It's hard to put my thoughts about this book into words. The writing was good, don't get me wrong, but the characters, the FMC especially, felt way too immature for me. Then their past relationship...something about it seems off, but I can't describe it well enough, mostly because of how problematic it seems to be? But like, why would that make us root for the MMC, then?
I don't know. Overall, it felt like the characters also had no chemistry, so I'm just going to stop reading.
DNFd on March 1st, 2026, at 21% (126 pages).
It's hard to put my thoughts about this book into words. The writing was good, don't get me wrong, but the characters, the FMC especially, felt way too immature for me. Then their past relationship...something about it seems off, but I can't describe it well enough, mostly because of how problematic it seems to be? But like, why would that make us root for the MMC, then?
I don't know. Overall, it felt like the characters also had no chemistry, so I'm just going to stop reading.
March 3, 2026
**Beta Read**
Y'all ain’t ready.
Denali + Zariah
Take the Risk follows our captain, Denali and his quest to prove to Zariah that he has changed.
When we meet our FMC, Zariah, its when her twin brother Elijah is picking her up from the airport. & honestly, Denali recognizing Zariah off the rip meant we were going to get tension and angst.
& Bree delivered. Denali and Zariah are messy! I love a messy love story. These two went through a lot in their teens and maybe them being older has given them a chance to grow into adults.
Zariah is strong minded, and doesn't allow Denali to get away with anything. She makes him 100% better. A better version of himself. He has to EARN her back.
The side characters in Take the Risk also, help our MCs navigate some things in relation to love/friendship which makes me even happier because HELLO we're getting more meat from our support characters & it also means... MORE BOOKS.
Thank you to Bree for the opportunity to BETA read Take the Risk and I am leaving a review voluntary in exchange for an honest review.
Y'all ain’t ready.
Denali + Zariah
Take the Risk follows our captain, Denali and his quest to prove to Zariah that he has changed.
When we meet our FMC, Zariah, its when her twin brother Elijah is picking her up from the airport. & honestly, Denali recognizing Zariah off the rip meant we were going to get tension and angst.
& Bree delivered. Denali and Zariah are messy! I love a messy love story. These two went through a lot in their teens and maybe them being older has given them a chance to grow into adults.
Zariah is strong minded, and doesn't allow Denali to get away with anything. She makes him 100% better. A better version of himself. He has to EARN her back.
The side characters in Take the Risk also, help our MCs navigate some things in relation to love/friendship which makes me even happier because HELLO we're getting more meat from our support characters & it also means... MORE BOOKS.
Thank you to Bree for the opportunity to BETA read Take the Risk and I am leaving a review voluntary in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2026
3.5 stars
I was really looking forward reading the next installment of the FTA series. And it was a pleasure following Zariah and Denali's story.
I was happy to see that we got more "ice time" than in the first book.
However, as much as I enjoyed reading this book, I again have some problems with the story that prevent me from giving more stars.
I think my main problem is that their relationship (especially the one in the past) is unhealthy. And they carry it both into the present. Neither Zariah nor Denali seem like they have worked professionally through what happened in the past.
Denali is still the same obsessive and possessive boy and only reins it in because Zariah tells him to, because otherwise it won't work. If this was a dark romance with a morally grey character, I would let it fly, but Denali is deep down a good one and his obsessiveness and possessiveness come rather from his insecurities rather than anything else.
Also, the ending came fast. I think the working through what their families think and how to deal with it was not explored on a deeper level. And Elijah came around rather quickly as well.
And don't get me started on the epilogue. That was way to fast forward for me :-D
Nevertheless, I like the FTA world and I'm looking forward getting the stories for Elijah, Montoya, Nick and Fridge!
I was really looking forward reading the next installment of the FTA series. And it was a pleasure following Zariah and Denali's story.
I was happy to see that we got more "ice time" than in the first book.
However, as much as I enjoyed reading this book, I again have some problems with the story that prevent me from giving more stars.
I think my main problem is that their relationship (especially the one in the past) is unhealthy. And they carry it both into the present. Neither Zariah nor Denali seem like they have worked professionally through what happened in the past.
Denali is still the same obsessive and possessive boy and only reins it in because Zariah tells him to, because otherwise it won't work. If this was a dark romance with a morally grey character, I would let it fly, but Denali is deep down a good one and his obsessiveness and possessiveness come rather from his insecurities rather than anything else.
Also, the ending came fast. I think the working through what their families think and how to deal with it was not explored on a deeper level. And Elijah came around rather quickly as well.
And don't get me started on the epilogue. That was way to fast forward for me :-D
Nevertheless, I like the FTA world and I'm looking forward getting the stories for Elijah, Montoya, Nick and Fridge!
Did not finish
March 31, 202649% I'm going to DNF for now.
I'm sad because this was an ARC and I loved the first book!
The main characters in this just felt too juvenile. but honestly every time I was going to DNF before, something great would happen and I'd stick around a little longer.
I would still read the next books. I really want to know what Nick's deal is. I feel like there's a Fridge triangle awaiting.
I'm sad because this was an ARC and I loved the first book!
The main characters in this just felt too juvenile. but honestly every time I was going to DNF before, something great would happen and I'd stick around a little longer.
I would still read the next books. I really want to know what Nick's deal is. I feel like there's a Fridge triangle awaiting.
Did not finish
March 3, 2026This was unfortunately a DNF for me. I really tried to get through it I was absolutely replused by the MMC. He and our FMC dated when they were around 15/16 and he was so emotionally abusive towards her. You are telling me that this man tried to get emancipated to marry her when they were teens and then got mad at her for saying no because she didn't want to do that. Like what?! We are also brushing over the fact that after she went home from the summer they spent together, he followed her across multiple state lines and crashed her grandfather's funeral because she left him. Then we go to the present time, and this man thinks everything was her fault, and then he's like "ya I can see what I did could be perceived that way" I beg youre finest parton, sir. Don't get me wrong, the writing was amazing, which was what kept me going, but the MMC was just awful; nothing was appealing about him. He was also a bully to a younger player on his team, and not in a haha, joke type of way, like I would file a HIB on the MMC if I were the younger player.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Bree Hayden for the ARC of Take The Risk.
I ate this up! I LOVE a hockey romance. to be honest it is probably my favorite romance sub genre. and this ticked all the boxes for me. down bad main male character, and a bad bitch main female character. throw in a side of second chance and brother's best friend and i am sat. I will forewarn everyone that you will feel all the emotions in this book so be prepared for an emotional roller coaster.
I ate this up! I LOVE a hockey romance. to be honest it is probably my favorite romance sub genre. and this ticked all the boxes for me. down bad main male character, and a bad bitch main female character. throw in a side of second chance and brother's best friend and i am sat. I will forewarn everyone that you will feel all the emotions in this book so be prepared for an emotional roller coaster.
April 5, 2026
ARC review. Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this in advance. I love hockey romances, but this just didn’t connect with me as I thought it would. The story was portrayed like the FMC and MMC was supposed to be like super grown-up at 20 (compared to when they first dated at 15) and it just didn’t feel credible for me mostly because the FMC behaved very immaturely in many parts of the story. I usually love a possessive MMC but Denali did nothing for me and almost everything just felt cringey. However I still finished and I can still see this being a story that many people enjoy - it was just not my cup of tea
March 6, 2026
Take the Risk by Bree Hayden is a second-chance hockey romance that focuses on growth, accountability, and the kind of slow-burn tension that makes every moment feel earned.
I was lucky enough to read this story both as a beta reader and as an ARC reviewer, and watching it evolve from early drafts to release has been incredibly special. Bree Hayden doesn’t take the easy route with this story—she asks what it really looks like when someone confronts who they used to be, takes responsibility, and does the work to become better.
Denali is not the boy he was five years ago, and the story never asks readers to forget that. Instead, it builds trust slowly and intentionally. His determination to prove that he has grown—and that he deserves another chance—is one of the most compelling parts of the book.
Zariah’s growth is just as powerful. Watching her learn boundaries, recognize her own worth, and choose herself without closing off her heart adds real emotional depth to the story.
This is a true slow burn where the tension builds quietly and the chemistry feels authentic. The found family within the hockey team adds warmth and balance to the heavier emotional moments.
Tropes you’ll find here:
🏒 Second chance romance
🏒 Brother’s best friend
🏒 Forced proximity
🏒 College hockey romance
🏒 Found family
Take the Risk isn’t just another hockey romance—it’s a story about evolution, accountability, and learning how to love someone again after both of you have grown. Bree Hayden kills it again! ❤️
I was lucky enough to read this story both as a beta reader and as an ARC reviewer, and watching it evolve from early drafts to release has been incredibly special. Bree Hayden doesn’t take the easy route with this story—she asks what it really looks like when someone confronts who they used to be, takes responsibility, and does the work to become better.
Denali is not the boy he was five years ago, and the story never asks readers to forget that. Instead, it builds trust slowly and intentionally. His determination to prove that he has grown—and that he deserves another chance—is one of the most compelling parts of the book.
Zariah’s growth is just as powerful. Watching her learn boundaries, recognize her own worth, and choose herself without closing off her heart adds real emotional depth to the story.
This is a true slow burn where the tension builds quietly and the chemistry feels authentic. The found family within the hockey team adds warmth and balance to the heavier emotional moments.
Tropes you’ll find here:
🏒 Second chance romance
🏒 Brother’s best friend
🏒 Forced proximity
🏒 College hockey romance
🏒 Found family
Take the Risk isn’t just another hockey romance—it’s a story about evolution, accountability, and learning how to love someone again after both of you have grown. Bree Hayden kills it again! ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Take the Risk is a standout college hockey romance that thrives on tension, emotional depth, and the irresistible pull of an enemies‑to‑lovers arc done right. Bree Hayden builds Denali and Zariah’s story across shifting timelines, letting their past unravel piece by piece until every complicated feeling finally makes sense. The structure isn’t just clever—it’s essential, giving their dynamic weight and history that you feel long before either of them admits what’s happening between them. Denali is the kind of hero who hits hard emotionally: stern on the surface, disciplined to a fault, but a complete cinnamon roll when it comes to Zariah. And he falls first—fast, deep, and with a sincerity that makes every interaction crackle. Zariah, meanwhile, is a force. Strong, grounded, and unwilling to be steamrolled by anyone, she brings a resilience and clarity that balances Denali’s intensity. Their chemistry is sharp, but their emotional development is even sharper. Hayden’s pacing is one of the book’s biggest strengths. She lets the tension simmer, lets the resentment and attraction collide, and never rushes the shift from enemies to something far more vulnerable. Every reveal in their past adds another layer, and by the time the full picture comes into focus, their connection feels inevitable. As a sports romance, the hockey backdrop adds energy without overshadowing the heart of the story. As a character-driven romance, it shines—full of longing, friction, and the kind of emotional payoff that feels earned. Take the Risk is a beautifully crafted, slow-unraveling love story with two characters who challenge each other, heal each other, and ultimately choose each other. Bree Hayden nails the emotional beats, the tension, and the tenderness, making this a must-read for fans of layered enemies-to-lovers romances.
March 4, 2026
•Hockey Romance
•Second Chance
•Brothers Best Friend
•Very Spicy
•No 3rd Act Breakup
Okay, wow, I absolutely loved this book! This author has quickly become one of my favorites. The plot, the characters, the tension, the chemistry. It has everything and more than I could’ve wanted. Both characters are SO obsessed with each other and their connection is so deep.
The way the author portrayed the brother’s best friend trope was such a breath of fresh air. I thought it was so cute Elijah was all for their relationship and then Zariah and Denali kept fucking with him and grossing him out.
Side-note: I need Elijah’s story like yesterday.
These two are soooo romantic. There’s so many cute moments of them. And good lord the spice was spicy. They go at it repeatedly but it never got repetitive like some super spicy books do.
I love how this authors characters are absolute messes and almost nothing goes right for them. It makes them seem so real and relatable.
I was worried because at the beginning Zariah does get on my nerves a little but it only happened a few times then it never happened again. We’re only 2 books into this series and so far both have been 5 star reads for me and I can tell this will be one I come back to reread over and over again. I cannot wait for the next book! I have a feeling Tallulah was the reason Nick was going to Canada.
Definitely read this if you like a super spicy but also romantic and plot heavy hockey romance.
•Second Chance
•Brothers Best Friend
•Very Spicy
•No 3rd Act Breakup
Okay, wow, I absolutely loved this book! This author has quickly become one of my favorites. The plot, the characters, the tension, the chemistry. It has everything and more than I could’ve wanted. Both characters are SO obsessed with each other and their connection is so deep.
The way the author portrayed the brother’s best friend trope was such a breath of fresh air. I thought it was so cute Elijah was all for their relationship and then Zariah and Denali kept fucking with him and grossing him out.
Side-note: I need Elijah’s story like yesterday.
These two are soooo romantic. There’s so many cute moments of them. And good lord the spice was spicy. They go at it repeatedly but it never got repetitive like some super spicy books do.
I love how this authors characters are absolute messes and almost nothing goes right for them. It makes them seem so real and relatable.
I was worried because at the beginning Zariah does get on my nerves a little but it only happened a few times then it never happened again. We’re only 2 books into this series and so far both have been 5 star reads for me and I can tell this will be one I come back to reread over and over again. I cannot wait for the next book! I have a feeling Tallulah was the reason Nick was going to Canada.
Definitely read this if you like a super spicy but also romantic and plot heavy hockey romance.
March 10, 2026
I received an ARC for Take the Risk book 2 in the For the Arena series.
I couldn't wait after reading book one last year. So excited here goes.
This is Denali and Zariah's story...
Denali and Zariah meet when they were 15
5 years ago they both hurt each other. now that she is back he will do whatever it takes to make it work. He is the captain of the team.
Zariah is in school to be a screenwriter. She failed her class and has to have a story to write so the teacher gives her until the next semester to fix her project. She is The RA for the RV building. When her room floods she moves in with Denali and her brother. I love the slow burn in this one it was definitely needed after what they both went through. I loved how they both grew. And learned to listen to each other. Their was also no third act break up.
Can't wait for the next book.
I couldn't wait after reading book one last year. So excited here goes.
This is Denali and Zariah's story...
Denali and Zariah meet when they were 15
5 years ago they both hurt each other. now that she is back he will do whatever it takes to make it work. He is the captain of the team.
Zariah is in school to be a screenwriter. She failed her class and has to have a story to write so the teacher gives her until the next semester to fix her project. She is The RA for the RV building. When her room floods she moves in with Denali and her brother. I love the slow burn in this one it was definitely needed after what they both went through. I loved how they both grew. And learned to listen to each other. Their was also no third act break up.
Can't wait for the next book.
March 25, 2026
Kind of surprised but I ate this up!
4 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
Give this a go if you want:
- tension
- very well paced slow burn
- some spice
- obsessive and whipped MMC
The writing is very good and keeps you hooked. The author does a great job of pacing the story and has a good balance of emotional depth and fluffiness.
The only critique of the book is the story is kind of far fetched, which may not appeal to some readers. Overall, I had a fun time and I really loved Zariah and Denali’s journey back to each other.
📚 tropes:
- second chance
- brother’s best friend
- forced proximity
- forbidden relationship
Trigger warnings:
- death of a loved one
- grief
- depression/mental health
- bullying
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
4 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
Give this a go if you want:
- tension
- very well paced slow burn
- some spice
- obsessive and whipped MMC
The writing is very good and keeps you hooked. The author does a great job of pacing the story and has a good balance of emotional depth and fluffiness.
The only critique of the book is the story is kind of far fetched, which may not appeal to some readers. Overall, I had a fun time and I really loved Zariah and Denali’s journey back to each other.
📚 tropes:
- second chance
- brother’s best friend
- forced proximity
- forbidden relationship
Trigger warnings:
- death of a loved one
- grief
- depression/mental health
- bullying
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2026
I originally got an ARC of this book but I got sick and life happened 🥴 so I read it on KU cause it’s out now!
I ate this up in two days though 👀
I liked how real this story was. It’s chaotic - exactly how I would expect 20-year-old college students to behave because really they have NO CLUE 🤣 I was giggling, blushing (cause somehow I ended up reading spicy scenes in public), stressed out! I felt all the feels okay?
The MMC, Denali, was a little hard for me to like because of his past 💀... he redeemed himself, but your girl likes to hold a grudge.
He was a lil psycho when they met at 15 but he at least was able to accept and acknowledge his faults and actively tried to be better the second time around.
Zariah, our FMC, girl it couldn’t be me 🤣 I wouldn’t touch that man with a 10ft pole. She really had a heart of gold, dealing with her own struggles, helping everyone around her, and finding the strength to forgive Denali for the past. Good for her!
This was a little longer than I’m used to for a contemporary romance at 450ish pages, but the need to see how everything would turn out overpowered that.
Would I recommend? Yes.
I ate this up in two days though 👀
I liked how real this story was. It’s chaotic - exactly how I would expect 20-year-old college students to behave because really they have NO CLUE 🤣 I was giggling, blushing (cause somehow I ended up reading spicy scenes in public), stressed out! I felt all the feels okay?
The MMC, Denali, was a little hard for me to like because of his past 💀... he redeemed himself, but your girl likes to hold a grudge.
He was a lil psycho when they met at 15 but he at least was able to accept and acknowledge his faults and actively tried to be better the second time around.
Zariah, our FMC, girl it couldn’t be me 🤣 I wouldn’t touch that man with a 10ft pole. She really had a heart of gold, dealing with her own struggles, helping everyone around her, and finding the strength to forgive Denali for the past. Good for her!
This was a little longer than I’m used to for a contemporary romance at 450ish pages, but the need to see how everything would turn out overpowered that.
Would I recommend? Yes.
Did not finish
March 15, 2026i really tried with this one but i had to dnf. i was absolutely disgusted by the mmc. this man needs professional help, not a romance arc. NOTHING about him was appealing and it made the whole reading experience miserable. it also didn’t help that the writing style didn’t work for me.. the dialogue felt unrealistic and kinda cringe at times. the fact that he was somehow unrecognizable to both her and her brother despite them being so close years ago was also just… huh? their backstory felt messy and disorganized too, and i found myself confused more often than not. i wanted to like this so bad but this was not it for me
Review of advance copy received from Author
No one writes such believable college banter as Bree does!
In this one, we're following Zariah and Denali as they give each other a second chance at love, years after their chaotic first breakup. There was a lot that happened between them in the past, a lot of toxicity they needed to acknowledge, and a lot they needed to discuss before giving each other another chance. There was SO much groveling here, but it was very much needed for them, especially Denali, to grow and understand their past mistakes. I loved how Bree took her time building their new relationship — it was a true slow burn, and it worked perfectly for their dynamic. There are some aspects that I didn't vibe with completely, but I still liked the story as a whole.
My favorite part about this whole series is how well she writes the interactions between all of these characters! They're funny, and sometimes silly, and just make sense! A character said or did something, and I immediately thought to myself "oh yeah, they'd definitely do that". She's building and deepening them throughout the whole series, and it's amazing to experience it through each new book! My favorites so far are still June and Bear, but I'm excited to see if that will change in the future! All in all, I highly recommend Bree's books!!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
In this one, we're following Zariah and Denali as they give each other a second chance at love, years after their chaotic first breakup. There was a lot that happened between them in the past, a lot of toxicity they needed to acknowledge, and a lot they needed to discuss before giving each other another chance. There was SO much groveling here, but it was very much needed for them, especially Denali, to grow and understand their past mistakes. I loved how Bree took her time building their new relationship — it was a true slow burn, and it worked perfectly for their dynamic. There are some aspects that I didn't vibe with completely, but I still liked the story as a whole.
My favorite part about this whole series is how well she writes the interactions between all of these characters! They're funny, and sometimes silly, and just make sense! A character said or did something, and I immediately thought to myself "oh yeah, they'd definitely do that". She's building and deepening them throughout the whole series, and it's amazing to experience it through each new book! My favorites so far are still June and Bear, but I'm excited to see if that will change in the future! All in all, I highly recommend Bree's books!!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
February 19, 2026
Thank you Bree Hayden for sending me an ARC of this book.
I really think this book is for someone, I just don’t think I am that someone. I was rooting for the main characters and their love story, but everything felt too MUCH. I like an obsessed man… not like this. I was constantly thinking that they were headed in a normal direction, and then BAM something icky would happen again. If you like a possessive, obsessed man that borderlines stalking, this may be for you (and I would recommend it if that’s your thing).
I really think this book is for someone, I just don’t think I am that someone. I was rooting for the main characters and their love story, but everything felt too MUCH. I like an obsessed man… not like this. I was constantly thinking that they were headed in a normal direction, and then BAM something icky would happen again. If you like a possessive, obsessed man that borderlines stalking, this may be for you (and I would recommend it if that’s your thing).
February 20, 2026
4.5 / ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bree Hayden has done what I once considered to be impossible: make me love a second-chance romance. In fact, this is my favorite book of hers so far, hands-down.
I get the appeal of the second-chance trope, however, typically it just isn’t for me. Usually whatever issues or hang-ups that caused the couple to break up in the first place are never resolved when their second chance rolls around. That was not the case in this book. A lot of relationship issues that occurred in the past could largely be attributed to the FMC and MMC’s young age (fifteen) as well as the traumatic things they were both going through separately.
In the present day, Bree Hayden does a wonderful job of showing how much each character has changed and how they’re putting forth a conscious effort to be better and make healthier choices. This story felt very real and grounded and was incredibly heart-felt. I caught myself tearing up at multiple points in the story. Denali is a top-tier yearner, but now is a healthy, boundary-respecting yearner. Zariah is a strong, confident FMC who wasn’t stubborn for the sake of it; she was willing to give Denali a chance so long as he respected her boundaries and didn’t push her into discomfort. Their banter and relationship was so sweet and cute, and I liked the fact that they didn’t immediately rush into a relationship. They took the time to get to know each other as adults first.
As always, the side characters in this universe have a lot of depth, personality, and are so funny; I laughed out loud several times. I can’t wait to see which character is next to get their own standalone. (I’m thinking that it’s Nick, but we shall see).
📖Book Tropes:
👥Dual POV
💕Second Chance
♥️He Falls First and Harder
🥺Yearning
❤️🔥Slow burn
🏒Hockey Romance
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am providing my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and my rating reflects my genuine experience with the book.
2 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bree Hayden has done what I once considered to be impossible: make me love a second-chance romance. In fact, this is my favorite book of hers so far, hands-down.
I get the appeal of the second-chance trope, however, typically it just isn’t for me. Usually whatever issues or hang-ups that caused the couple to break up in the first place are never resolved when their second chance rolls around. That was not the case in this book. A lot of relationship issues that occurred in the past could largely be attributed to the FMC and MMC’s young age (fifteen) as well as the traumatic things they were both going through separately.
In the present day, Bree Hayden does a wonderful job of showing how much each character has changed and how they’re putting forth a conscious effort to be better and make healthier choices. This story felt very real and grounded and was incredibly heart-felt. I caught myself tearing up at multiple points in the story. Denali is a top-tier yearner, but now is a healthy, boundary-respecting yearner. Zariah is a strong, confident FMC who wasn’t stubborn for the sake of it; she was willing to give Denali a chance so long as he respected her boundaries and didn’t push her into discomfort. Their banter and relationship was so sweet and cute, and I liked the fact that they didn’t immediately rush into a relationship. They took the time to get to know each other as adults first.
As always, the side characters in this universe have a lot of depth, personality, and are so funny; I laughed out loud several times. I can’t wait to see which character is next to get their own standalone. (I’m thinking that it’s Nick, but we shall see).
📖Book Tropes:
👥Dual POV
💕Second Chance
♥️He Falls First and Harder
🥺Yearning
❤️🔥Slow burn
🏒Hockey Romance
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am providing my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and my rating reflects my genuine experience with the book.
March 3, 2026
This is the second book In the for the arena series and it didn’t disappoint.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️*ARC REVIEW* I really enjoyed this book, honestly even more than the first one.
Denali runs into an ex-girlfriend from five years ago, and things quickly become complicated since there was never any real closure. Add in the fact that she’s related to someone on the team, and the tension gets even better. Watching all those unresolved emotions come to the surface was really engaging.
Denali being completely head over heels was adorable and slightly concerning 😅. Dude was intensely infatuated with her, but I liked how her presence changed his dynamics with the team and showed a different side of him. Their personalities meshed well. He was anxious, and she had a way of calming him down. I also appreciated getting Denali’s POV after being on Bear’s side in the first book.
Seeing more of Elijah was another highlight. He came across as a hothead before, but this book definitely redeemed him for me. And as always, the team’s brotherhood and found-family vibe was a huge plus.
Overall, a great sequel with strong character growth and a team dynamic I loved.
Denali runs into an ex-girlfriend from five years ago, and things quickly become complicated since there was never any real closure. Add in the fact that she’s related to someone on the team, and the tension gets even better. Watching all those unresolved emotions come to the surface was really engaging.
Denali being completely head over heels was adorable and slightly concerning 😅. Dude was intensely infatuated with her, but I liked how her presence changed his dynamics with the team and showed a different side of him. Their personalities meshed well. He was anxious, and she had a way of calming him down. I also appreciated getting Denali’s POV after being on Bear’s side in the first book.
Seeing more of Elijah was another highlight. He came across as a hothead before, but this book definitely redeemed him for me. And as always, the team’s brotherhood and found-family vibe was a huge plus.
Overall, a great sequel with strong character growth and a team dynamic I loved.
March 3, 2026
Thank you Bree Hayden for the opportunity to read this arc book. This is my third arc book by you and every single one I have enjoyed. You bring up uncomfortable topics and make people feel seen, so thank you.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the build up a the tension of unsaid words between Zariah and Denali. I also enjoyed how you bring in the characters from the other books and keep them throughout the series. When I was reading this book I felt like I was inside the book or watching it unfold in front of me. This was so well written and I can’t wait to read more from you!!
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the build up a the tension of unsaid words between Zariah and Denali. I also enjoyed how you bring in the characters from the other books and keep them throughout the series. When I was reading this book I felt like I was inside the book or watching it unfold in front of me. This was so well written and I can’t wait to read more from you!!
March 18, 2026
Take the Risk by Bree Hayden was a really enjoyable sports romance for me. If you like college hockey, messy second-chance love stories, and emotionally intense couples, this one definitely delivers.
The story follows Denali and Zariah, who share a complicated past that ended painfully five years earlier. When Zariah returns and Denali recognizes her immediately, the tension is there from the very beginning. From that moment on, the story leans into the angst, unresolved feelings, and the question of whether they can fix what they once broke.
Both characters start off very emotionally closed off, which made their journey back to each other even more satisfying to read. Time has passed, they’ve grown up, and they’re still carrying the weight of what happened in their teens. Watching them slowly move toward understanding, forgiveness, and closure made their second-chance romance feel believable and earned.
Denali is definitely not your typical soft hockey MMC. He’s intense, obsessive, and fiercely devoted, with that slightly unhinged energy that makes it very clear he’s not letting Zariah go again. What I really liked, though, is that Zariah matches him perfectly. She’s strong-minded, doesn’t let him get away with anything, and makes him prove that he’s actually changed. If he wants her back, he has to earn it.
Their relationship is messy in the best possible way. There’s a lot of tension between them, and the emotional push and pull kept me hooked throughout the story. Their chemistry also translates into some well-written intimate moments that feel mature and intentional, fitting their personalities and history.
I also enjoyed the side characters and the team dynamics. The friendships and support system around them add more depth to the story and help both main characters navigate their feelings, which made the world feel more complete and makes me curious about the rest of the series.
Overall, this was a really solid, angsty hockey romance with a compelling second-chance couple at the center.
4⭐️
The story follows Denali and Zariah, who share a complicated past that ended painfully five years earlier. When Zariah returns and Denali recognizes her immediately, the tension is there from the very beginning. From that moment on, the story leans into the angst, unresolved feelings, and the question of whether they can fix what they once broke.
Both characters start off very emotionally closed off, which made their journey back to each other even more satisfying to read. Time has passed, they’ve grown up, and they’re still carrying the weight of what happened in their teens. Watching them slowly move toward understanding, forgiveness, and closure made their second-chance romance feel believable and earned.
Denali is definitely not your typical soft hockey MMC. He’s intense, obsessive, and fiercely devoted, with that slightly unhinged energy that makes it very clear he’s not letting Zariah go again. What I really liked, though, is that Zariah matches him perfectly. She’s strong-minded, doesn’t let him get away with anything, and makes him prove that he’s actually changed. If he wants her back, he has to earn it.
Their relationship is messy in the best possible way. There’s a lot of tension between them, and the emotional push and pull kept me hooked throughout the story. Their chemistry also translates into some well-written intimate moments that feel mature and intentional, fitting their personalities and history.
I also enjoyed the side characters and the team dynamics. The friendships and support system around them add more depth to the story and help both main characters navigate their feelings, which made the world feel more complete and makes me curious about the rest of the series.
Overall, this was a really solid, angsty hockey romance with a compelling second-chance couple at the center.
4⭐️
March 25, 2026
This was a well written second chance, hockey romance. The story starts off with our FMC, Zariah, returning home from a summer college course in Atlanta. When her brother picks her up from the airport his new bestie is with him. Unbeknownst to her brother, his new bestie is her ex-boyfriend Denali from 5 years ago. What follows is Zariah and Denali working out their past and figuring out how or if they can make something work now that they're older.
I enjoyed the story for the most part but there were some things that bothered me.
I thought the book was a lot longer than it needed to be. Some things felt unnecessarily drawn out but once we got toward the end things went really fast.
I felt like Zariah & Denali's past was confusing and could've been explained a little better. Most of it came off as a little uncomfortable and weird to me. I'm still not sure how Denali could've been so clueless on how many lines he crossed and never second guessed any of his actions.
There was also a lot of Italian (I think) and zero translation or explanation of what was said. I'm sure it fit the story or whatever but it meant nothing to me because I don't know a lick of Italian.
I did really enjoy the side characters and liked Zariah's relationship with her brother. At times it felt like some of the characters who were mentioned must have been from previous books and we were supposed to already know who they were.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the story for the most part but there were some things that bothered me.
I thought the book was a lot longer than it needed to be. Some things felt unnecessarily drawn out but once we got toward the end things went really fast.
I felt like Zariah & Denali's past was confusing and could've been explained a little better. Most of it came off as a little uncomfortable and weird to me. I'm still not sure how Denali could've been so clueless on how many lines he crossed and never second guessed any of his actions.
There was also a lot of Italian (I think) and zero translation or explanation of what was said. I'm sure it fit the story or whatever but it meant nothing to me because I don't know a lick of Italian.
I did really enjoy the side characters and liked Zariah's relationship with her brother. At times it felt like some of the characters who were mentioned must have been from previous books and we were supposed to already know who they were.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 26, 2026
I had eyed this book for a while and hoped that it would live up to my expectations. Although the story had potential I had a hard time finishing this book. My main issue was the past relationship that Zariah and Denali shared. Too much toxicity and although you could make a case for second chances and growing up I just found that the present day couple although trying hard, their chemistry was off. Pacing of the book was good but the story evolution didn’t seem to be timed well enough for all the transgression s the couple had been through.
I did like the supporting cast of hockey teammates and coach. There are potentials for future books in this series. As for Denali and Zariah’s story I did like the spicy and steamy chapters but I struggled connecting with Zariah and although the toxicity went both ways I found myself thinking that Denali deserved more than what Zariah gave him. I do want to thank Bree Hayden for the opportunity to read and review this story
I did like the supporting cast of hockey teammates and coach. There are potentials for future books in this series. As for Denali and Zariah’s story I did like the spicy and steamy chapters but I struggled connecting with Zariah and although the toxicity went both ways I found myself thinking that Denali deserved more than what Zariah gave him. I do want to thank Bree Hayden for the opportunity to read and review this story
March 5, 2026
3.5 stars
This was book two in the series and a second chance romance, and I will always have a soft spot for a good second chance.
What I liked most was the character growth, especially from the MMC. The emotional maturity, the way he carried his first love with him without ever truly letting it go, and the way he had grown since they last had their shot. He never let himself fall for anyone else because his first love never left his heart, and that kind of devotion always gets me.
I loved seeing him at his new school, building something that was truly his own. Watching him step into leadership, on his way to earning his captain title and putting his team on the map for hockey, added such a strong layer of personal growth alongside the romance.
It was a story about growth, redemption, and choosing love again, but this time, choosing it better.
This was book two in the series and a second chance romance, and I will always have a soft spot for a good second chance.
What I liked most was the character growth, especially from the MMC. The emotional maturity, the way he carried his first love with him without ever truly letting it go, and the way he had grown since they last had their shot. He never let himself fall for anyone else because his first love never left his heart, and that kind of devotion always gets me.
I loved seeing him at his new school, building something that was truly his own. Watching him step into leadership, on his way to earning his captain title and putting his team on the map for hockey, added such a strong layer of personal growth alongside the romance.
It was a story about growth, redemption, and choosing love again, but this time, choosing it better.
February 25, 2026
I loved book 1 in this series (Call the Shots) and I've been eagerly awaiting this one and I had high hopes I would feel the same but unfortunately I didn't
I couldn't connect with the main characters, their behavior was frustrating and too chaotic for me and the book was too long with lots of unnecessarily repeated topics and other topics felt rushed.
I loved getting to be back in this friend group as there are some fun characters who's stories I'm looking forward to, especially Elijah and Montoya and I have lots of questions about Nick & 🇨🇦 and the ? in his arms at the party
Thank you Bree for the ARC opportunity 💕
I couldn't connect with the main characters, their behavior was frustrating and too chaotic for me and the book was too long with lots of unnecessarily repeated topics and other topics felt rushed.
I loved getting to be back in this friend group as there are some fun characters who's stories I'm looking forward to, especially Elijah and Montoya and I have lots of questions about Nick & 🇨🇦 and the ? in his arms at the party
Thank you Bree for the ARC opportunity 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hockey romance
Second chance
Brothers Best Friend
Forced Proximity
Found family
Slow burn
Denali and Zariah had a thing back in the day. They bump into each other years later. And the tension between these two broken souls start to burn ❤️🔥 hot. The connection drips off the page. All the yearning, this is a slooow buurrrnn.
The character development was well done. Watching the two of them heal. Was heartfelt and emotional.
Denali learning to stay on task and not fall into old patterns and Zariah letting go of the past.
Denali Was possessive obsessive and protective and very broken but respecting her boundaries. Swooning....
The side characters so good. The found family vibes... I need Montoya story.
I received this as an ARC and I'm so glad I did. right book at the right time. and I thank you Bree Hayden for the opportunity.
Second chance
Brothers Best Friend
Forced Proximity
Found family
Slow burn
Denali and Zariah had a thing back in the day. They bump into each other years later. And the tension between these two broken souls start to burn ❤️🔥 hot. The connection drips off the page. All the yearning, this is a slooow buurrrnn.
The character development was well done. Watching the two of them heal. Was heartfelt and emotional.
Denali learning to stay on task and not fall into old patterns and Zariah letting go of the past.
Denali Was possessive obsessive and protective and very broken but respecting her boundaries. Swooning....
The side characters so good. The found family vibes... I need Montoya story.
I received this as an ARC and I'm so glad I did. right book at the right time. and I thank you Bree Hayden for the opportunity.
March 8, 2026
3.75⭐️
I received this book as an ARC, and I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily.
The first 30% of this book, I had to push through. It didn't grab me like I would have liked.
This was a good read of a story! I do feel this could have been condensed down some. And it felt rushed at the end. I wanted a bit more from the wrapping up of Zariah and Denali's story. Their love was different, and I wanted a little better from the ending.
I received this book as an ARC, and I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily.
The first 30% of this book, I had to push through. It didn't grab me like I would have liked.
This was a good read of a story! I do feel this could have been condensed down some. And it felt rushed at the end. I wanted a bit more from the wrapping up of Zariah and Denali's story. Their love was different, and I wanted a little better from the ending.
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