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All In #3
A Secret for a Secret
From New York Times bestselling author Helena Hunting comes a new romance about trading secrets, breaking the rules, and playing for keeps.
My name is Ryan Kingston, and I’m a rule follower. I’ve never been in a fistfight. I always obey the speed limit. I don’t get drunk, and I definitely don’t pick up random women at bars.
Except the night I found out that my whole existence has been a lie.
I got drunk. And picked up a stranger.
Her name was Queenie, and she was everything I’m not: reckless, impulsive, and chaotic. We did shots and traded secrets. And ended up naked at my place.
She left me a thank-you note in the morning and her panties as a parting gift. But no way to contact her.
Six weeks later I’m sitting in the first official team meeting of the season, and there she is. I neglected to mention that I’m the goalie for Seattle’s NHL team.
And Queenie? Turns out she’s the general manager’s daughter.
My name is Ryan Kingston, and I’m a rule follower. I’ve never been in a fistfight. I always obey the speed limit. I don’t get drunk, and I definitely don’t pick up random women at bars.
Except the night I found out that my whole existence has been a lie.
I got drunk. And picked up a stranger.
Her name was Queenie, and she was everything I’m not: reckless, impulsive, and chaotic. We did shots and traded secrets. And ended up naked at my place.
She left me a thank-you note in the morning and her panties as a parting gift. But no way to contact her.
Six weeks later I’m sitting in the first official team meeting of the season, and there she is. I neglected to mention that I’m the goalie for Seattle’s NHL team.
And Queenie? Turns out she’s the general manager’s daughter.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2020
3530 people are currently reading
20203 people want to read
About the author
Helena Hunting
77 books26.2k followersHelena Hunting is the author of The USA Today and NYT bestselling PUCKED Series. She lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes everything from romantic sports comedy to new adult angst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,334 reviews
May 15, 2020
4.5 Stars
This was simply beautiful. I can confidently say it was the best out of the series so far.
While there is nothing extraordinary about it, everything just fit together so peacefully. King and Queenie call each other the calm and the chaos respectively, and I find that description so beautifully fitting.
They are truly good for each other in an opposites attract kind of way, but it goes way beyond that as well. Usually opposites attract but they also burn through the novelty and excitement of it all pretty quickly. I loved that their differences were discussed in a way that didn’t gloss over them by preaching the whole “love will conquer it all” mantra. They discuss their differences, plan on how to deal and accept them while respecting each other’s needs and wants.
The way anyone would describe King would probably be “perfect”. They wouldn’t be wrong, except, no one is perfect. He needed passion and healthy recklessness in his life and Queenie needed stability, support and understanding. To be honest I’ve never read of a more balanced couple.
Reading this made me feel good, peaceful even. I realised that the writer reached a good balance where this was able to be a safe, sweet story that did not fall in the trap of being boring in the slightest.
Apart from the story itself I loved reading about the other characters and their kids, especially Violet’s twins, one of whom will develop a sweet relationship with Queenie. I also liked reading the conversations about anxiety in children and ways of dealing and helping through art.
This book was exactly what I needed at the moment and it was a great addition to the series. King, is the kind of hero we can say we love and want without adding “but not in real life” at the end.
This was simply beautiful. I can confidently say it was the best out of the series so far.
While there is nothing extraordinary about it, everything just fit together so peacefully. King and Queenie call each other the calm and the chaos respectively, and I find that description so beautifully fitting.
They are truly good for each other in an opposites attract kind of way, but it goes way beyond that as well. Usually opposites attract but they also burn through the novelty and excitement of it all pretty quickly. I loved that their differences were discussed in a way that didn’t gloss over them by preaching the whole “love will conquer it all” mantra. They discuss their differences, plan on how to deal and accept them while respecting each other’s needs and wants.
The way anyone would describe King would probably be “perfect”. They wouldn’t be wrong, except, no one is perfect. He needed passion and healthy recklessness in his life and Queenie needed stability, support and understanding. To be honest I’ve never read of a more balanced couple.
Reading this made me feel good, peaceful even. I realised that the writer reached a good balance where this was able to be a safe, sweet story that did not fall in the trap of being boring in the slightest.
Apart from the story itself I loved reading about the other characters and their kids, especially Violet’s twins, one of whom will develop a sweet relationship with Queenie. I also liked reading the conversations about anxiety in children and ways of dealing and helping through art.
This book was exactly what I needed at the moment and it was a great addition to the series. King, is the kind of hero we can say we love and want without adding “but not in real life” at the end.
December 24, 2022
5 stars
I’ve read a lot of Helena Hunting’s books and as much as I’ve enjoyed them, I was surprised to find that I hadn’t given any of them a full 5 stars… until now. A Secret for a Secret was such a great read for me. It was just what I needed and by far my favorite book of hers.
Ryan Kingston is a NHL goalie and the good guy of hockey. He is respectful, kind, follows the rules and always makes the right calls. One night, he’s out and drinks a little too much, totally not his normal and has his first one-night stand. And six weeks later… he finds out his one night stand, Queenie, is the general manager’s daughter. Yikes.
Queenie is not quite the rule follower that King is. She’s a bit wild and impulsive. She’s trying to become a little less irresponsible and is working for her dad. Seeing King turns her world upside down. Especially when the one rule her dad gave her was to stay away from the hockey players.
King and Queenie love spending time together and decide being friends is better than nothing at all. Until they can no longer deny the attraction and connection they share. They completely balance one another out and make the best friends to lovers couple.
If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, and steamy romance with a hero that will sweep you off your feet, look no further. This is Helena Hunting at her best, and I can guarantee A Secret for a Secret will be on my 2020 favorites list.
I’ve read a lot of Helena Hunting’s books and as much as I’ve enjoyed them, I was surprised to find that I hadn’t given any of them a full 5 stars… until now. A Secret for a Secret was such a great read for me. It was just what I needed and by far my favorite book of hers.
Ryan Kingston is a NHL goalie and the good guy of hockey. He is respectful, kind, follows the rules and always makes the right calls. One night, he’s out and drinks a little too much, totally not his normal and has his first one-night stand. And six weeks later… he finds out his one night stand, Queenie, is the general manager’s daughter. Yikes.
Queenie is not quite the rule follower that King is. She’s a bit wild and impulsive. She’s trying to become a little less irresponsible and is working for her dad. Seeing King turns her world upside down. Especially when the one rule her dad gave her was to stay away from the hockey players.
King and Queenie love spending time together and decide being friends is better than nothing at all. Until they can no longer deny the attraction and connection they share. They completely balance one another out and make the best friends to lovers couple.
She’s a tornado, and half the time I don't know what to do with her, but still want to get caught up in her vortex.We all know Helena Hunting does an amazing job writing steamy scenes and alpha athletes, but who knew she could write the perfect, straight-laced, sweet, and most romantic hero? I fell so hard for Ryan Kingston and as much as I loved Queenie, King was the best part of this book for me. I loved watching Queenie finally find her King.
If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, and steamy romance with a hero that will sweep you off your feet, look no further. This is Helena Hunting at her best, and I can guarantee A Secret for a Secret will be on my 2020 favorites list.
I feel like I’ve finally found my person. The one who won’t try to tame my chaos but will let me live in it and help me balance my impulsiveness with stability. He’s yin and I’m yang. He’s sugar and I’m salt.
June 5, 2024
An emotional and compelling romance, filled with many secrets to be revealed and cherished by two individuals that learn how to fall in love with each other...
So this third installment, has officially stolen my heart and has claimed it! That's right, Kingston... my sexy and very romantic Ryan Kingston has taken a toll of grasping my beating heart and make it beat much faster for all the ways he expresses his admiration towards Queenie. In the little things he does, his blushes, his tenderness, his way of being is what draws you in to him.
Though the title does indeed say it all. Sharing one secret with another is what this story revolves itself around. But once they both open up to each other, breaking down those walls in which reveal the truth of Quennie's past as well as prepare and build a future with Kingston. Everything about Queenie is what truly draws Kingston to wanting more of her, not just because she makes him act like a totally different person when they are intimate involuntarily, but also because her true identity is what makes him fall even deeper in love with her;
When obstacles are in the way, Kingston knows to not give up on Queenie because he also knows that there is no going back once he has a claim on her. And Queenie knows that being with Ryan is something she cannot pass out on since her heart is the one who takes over for her and her love for him;
There is no denying at all that Ryan will forever own my heart. I am not sure if this is the last installment in the series, though there are many other hockey players in which have been mentioned that I would love to read a book of. We just have to be patient and see what else Helena has up her sleeves...
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, in exchange for an honest review...
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So this third installment, has officially stolen my heart and has claimed it! That's right, Kingston... my sexy and very romantic Ryan Kingston has taken a toll of grasping my beating heart and make it beat much faster for all the ways he expresses his admiration towards Queenie. In the little things he does, his blushes, his tenderness, his way of being is what draws you in to him.
Though the title does indeed say it all. Sharing one secret with another is what this story revolves itself around. But once they both open up to each other, breaking down those walls in which reveal the truth of Quennie's past as well as prepare and build a future with Kingston. Everything about Queenie is what truly draws Kingston to wanting more of her, not just because she makes him act like a totally different person when they are intimate involuntarily, but also because her true identity is what makes him fall even deeper in love with her;
"She's a tornado, and half the time I don't know what to do with her, but still want to get caught up in her vortex..."
When obstacles are in the way, Kingston knows to not give up on Queenie because he also knows that there is no going back once he has a claim on her. And Queenie knows that being with Ryan is something she cannot pass out on since her heart is the one who takes over for her and her love for him;
"He's the calm to my storm.
My still lake at dawn.
My king..."
There is no denying at all that Ryan will forever own my heart. I am not sure if this is the last installment in the series, though there are many other hockey players in which have been mentioned that I would love to read a book of. We just have to be patient and see what else Helena has up her sleeves...
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, in exchange for an honest review...
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September 5, 2022
It just made me cringe and the entire milk thing????
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May 11, 2020
Prologue
Mommy Issues
Kingston
I have six different drinks in front of me, ranging from very expensive scotch to some kind of carbonated fruity cocktail that’s so sweet I’m positive I’ll get a cavity if I finish it. Despite the variety, I’m still having trouble getting drunk. Mostly because I’m not a fan of the way alcohol tastes, so I’ve only had a couple sips out of each glass.
“Excuse me, is this seat taken?” A soft, slightly smoky female voice draws my attention to the left, where the stool next to mine sits empty.
I notice several things as her gray-blue eyes, ringed in navy, lock and hold with mine: she’s pint size and stunning, with long chestnut hair pulled up in a loose ponytail, high cheekbones, full lips, and thick lashes that don’t appear to be coated in mascara. But beyond how beautiful she is, she looks sad.
We match.
“Uh, no, it’s all yours.” Regardless of my sour mood, I push back my stool and stand, partly to make space for her, since the stools are crammed in close together.
She climbs into the one next to mine before I have a chance to offer my assistance.
“I’m Queenie.” She holds out a hand, and when I do the same, she slips hers into my palm, sending a jolt of unexpected energy through me. The way her eyes flare makes me think she’s felt it too. Maybe there’s something in the air.
“Queenie?” I smile. “I’m Ryan.” I don’t know why I introduce myself this way. No one calls me Ryan except for my parents. Even my siblings call me by our last name most of the time. In part because of my career choice, where my last name is what most people recognize. It’s too late now to backtrack. Maybe I don’t use my last name because my entire identity has been brought into question thanks to today’s events.
“Hi, Ryan.” Her gaze darts down and then back up. Our palms are still connected. And I’m still staring at her.
I release her hand and instantly want to find a reason to touch her again.
The bartender is quick to spot his new customer. I take my seat again while Queenie orders. “I’ll have a vodka martini, extra dirty, extra olives, please. Actually, make that two.”
The bartender’s eyebrows rise, but he gets out his shaker. She stops him when he reaches for the bottle on the shelf behind him and asks for well vodka instead. I’m not sure what the difference is between the two, but that gets another eyebrow raise from the bartender. He fills two martini glasses and drops a skewer of olives into each one. He looks to me before he moves on. “You still doing okay?”
“I’m fine, thank you.”
I try not to stare at Queenie, but I can see her reflection in the mirrored bar. She takes a sip out of one glass and makes a face, then does the same with the other one. She transfers one of the skewers of olives to the other glass and downs the whole thing in two gulps.
Her shoulders curl in, and she turns her head away, coughing into her elbow.
“Are you okay?” I ask.
She holds up a finger and coughs a couple more times. When she finally looks my way, her eyes are watery and her cheeks are flushed. “Fine, thanks. Well vodka isn’t very smooth going down.”
“Oh.” I don’t know much about vodka. “Why didn’t you have the other kind, then?”
“Because it costs twice as much, and I just lost my job, so I have to get drunk on the cheap stuff.” She plucks one of the skewers of olives from the still-full martini glass and pops one in her mouth.
“I’m sorry that you lost your job.”
She gives me another wry smile. “Thanks. I kind of sucked at it, though, so it’s not much of a surprise. Plus, serving tables isn’t my endgame, so this is sort of a wake-up call to figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life.” She motions to my lineup of drinks. “What’s going on here?”
“I’m trying to get drunk too.”
“You’d have a lot more success if you actually drank them.”
“Yeah, I know. I’m not big on alcohol,” I admit.
She scans me slowly, her grin growing wider once again. “Can’t really say I’m surprised to hear that. You look like you got lost on your way to a Boy Scouts meeting.”
“I used to be a Boy Scout.” I run a hand over my chest. I’m wearing a white polo and khakis, which is my usual attire. “I was even a camp counselor when I was a teenager.”
She throws her head back and laughs. “God, you’re adorable. And I mean that in a good way.” Queenie props her cheek on her fist. “So tell me why a former Boy Scout and camp counselor would need to get drunk by himself.”
“It’s a little complicated.” I pick up one of the glasses in front of me and take a hefty gulp.
“I’m the queen of complicated. Hit me with it.”
I bite the end of my tongue for a few seconds, debating. “It’s pretty messed up.”
“That’s okay. I’m pretty messed up too. How about this: you tell me why you’re getting drunk, and I’ll tell you why I’m a mess, aside from the fact that I lost a job.” She holds up her pinkie finger. “And we can pinkie swear that whatever we tell each other tonight, we’ll take to the grave.”
I link my pinkie with hers, and again, that jolt of energy hits me. Like the static in the air that comes with a thunderstorm. “A secret for a secret?”
“Exactly.”
“Okay.” I nod once and blow out a breath. It’s probably easier to tell a stranger this than it is to tell someone close to me. I bend so my mouth is close to her ear and say quietly, “I found out my sister is actually my mom.”
Queenie leans back and rapid blinks several times in a row. “I’m sorry . . . what?”
“My sister is actually—”
She waves her hand in the air. “I heard you. Oh my God. I don’t even know what to say to that. Are you . . . okay? Never mind. That’s a stupid question. Obviously you’re not okay. Do you want to . . . talk about it?”
“Uh, not really. Is that okay?” I almost feel bad that I don’t want to share more, especially since she’s expressing genuine concern. I do feel a little better about the whole thing, considering her shock and empathetic expression.
“Of course it’s okay. It also totally explains why you have a line of drinks in front of you.” She chews the inside of her lip. “I feel like my secret is kind of lame in comparison.”
“I’m sure it’s not. And you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.” I won’t be the least bit surprised if she finishes her second martini and leaves, considering my revelation.
“I want to. Tell you, I mean.” She slurps her second martini and exhales a long breath. “I have dependency issues.”
“On alcohol?”
She laughs again. “God, I love you.” Her eyes flare. “I don’t mean that literally. I just mean you’re cute. The things you say, just . . . anyway . . . I’m not dependent on alcohol, apart from at this moment. I’m dependent on my dad.”
“That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, is it?”
Queenie pops another olive in her mouth and chews thoughtfully. “He was only twenty when I was born, and he ended up having to raise me on his own. So lots of trial and error in the whole how to deal with raising a kid alone, you know? And I’m really good at messing things up, and he’s really good at bailing me out every single time, so I’ve perpetuated that dependency, and he sort of inadvertently feeds it.” Her nose scrunches up. “Sorry, I’m basically unloading all my baggage on you, and you already seem to have enough of your own to deal with.”
“Please don’t apologize. It’s good to know I’m not the only one with problems.”
“I’ve never actually admitted that out loud before, so it kind of feels good to unload it, even if it’s with a virtual stranger, if that makes sense.”
“It does. Make sense, I mean.” I feel like fate has obviously thrown us together tonight for a reason, so I decide I’m willing to share a little more. “I’m actually the product of a teen pregnancy too. My biological father wasn’t in the picture, and my grandparents decided it would be best if they raised me as theirs to give my sister . . . mom . . . and me a better chance at a normal life.”
“So I guess that means we both have mommy issues.”
“Looks that way, doesn’t it?” I agree.
“You know what we should do, Ryan?” There’s a hint of mischief in her eyes, the kind I might have shied away from before today.
“What’s that?”
“You game for getting drunk and forgetting about our mommy issues, at least for tonight?”
“I’m game.”
She pushes my scotch toward me and clinks her glass against mine. “After we knock back all your drinks, we can do shots.”
* * *
My head is pounding.
The last time I had a hangover like this, I was seventeen years old.
I crack a lid and groan when the light streaming through my bedroom window hits my eyeballs. I drag my hand down my face and freeze.
Because it smells like sex.
I glance to the right, noting the rumpled sheets and the head-dented pillow. I roll over—which makes me nauseous—and breathe in the sweet scent of vanilla shampoo.
Queenie.
After we polished off all my drinks, we did shots. Which, based on how I’m feeling right now, was definitely not a good idea.
And then I brought her home.
I throw off the covers and sit up. I’m naked. Again, this is atypical. I usually sleep in a T-shirt and boxer briefs. I find a discarded pair on the floor and pull them on so I can go in search of Queenie.
I get as far as the hallway when a yellow Post-it stuck to the doorjamb catches my eye.
Thanks for taking my mind off of my mommy issues last night. And this morning. ;)
Xo
Queenie
I peel it off, hoping she’s left a phone number on the back, but it’s blank. Which is when I notice the scrap of fabric hanging from the knob. I untangle it and realize that it’s a pair of women’s underwear.
A thong, to be exact. A ruined thong.
And this, right here, is the reason I don’t drink. Or bring random women home. Because now I get to feel equal parts guilty and mortified that last night’s sexual-therapy session has only warranted a Post-it goodbye note.
May 12, 2020
Once again Helena has managed to do what she does best and created a masterpiece, a man you can’t help but fall for and a heroine you instantly love.
A Secret for a Secret is the third book in the All In series and can be read as a stand-alone but I’d recommend reading them in order to get the backstory of other character in the book.
When we were first introduced to Kingston I was intrigued. He’s kind of like Darren (from the Pucked series) in ways, he keeps himself to himself. He’s super quiet and at times quite nervous. King is loving and kind and fierce at times when it comes to those he loves. It’s been quite enjoyable reading this book and unraveling the parcel that is Kingston.
Queenie, oh this woman has been through a lot. She has mommy issues and doesn’t feel like she’s good at anything and it truly hurts to see her feel like that. We get to see just how talented this woman is throughout the book. She’s determined to be independent and not rely on anyone. She’s an intriguing character and I just love her so much.
These two together are polar opposites. He’s neat, likes everything in place and she’s not. She’s a storm, a chaotic storm and leaves everything, everywhere. But put those two together and they work. It’s so much fun to see.
Helena truly delivered on this one. King and Queenie are two characters that have embedded themselves on my heart and I’ll never forget them. They’re perfectly imperfect and it suits them so well.
I’ve been a fan of Helena’s for so long and she never ever fails to bring us a book that’ll hook us in and keep us addicted. I truly can’t wait to see what comes from her in the future.
A Secret for a Secret is a forbidden, sports romance that’s super sexy and adorable all mixed together. It’s fun, emotional and filled with flirty moments. It’s a book that you won’t want to put down until you hit the last page.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
A Secret for a Secret is the third book in the All In series and can be read as a stand-alone but I’d recommend reading them in order to get the backstory of other character in the book.
When we were first introduced to Kingston I was intrigued. He’s kind of like Darren (from the Pucked series) in ways, he keeps himself to himself. He’s super quiet and at times quite nervous. King is loving and kind and fierce at times when it comes to those he loves. It’s been quite enjoyable reading this book and unraveling the parcel that is Kingston.
Queenie, oh this woman has been through a lot. She has mommy issues and doesn’t feel like she’s good at anything and it truly hurts to see her feel like that. We get to see just how talented this woman is throughout the book. She’s determined to be independent and not rely on anyone. She’s an intriguing character and I just love her so much.
These two together are polar opposites. He’s neat, likes everything in place and she’s not. She’s a storm, a chaotic storm and leaves everything, everywhere. But put those two together and they work. It’s so much fun to see.
Helena truly delivered on this one. King and Queenie are two characters that have embedded themselves on my heart and I’ll never forget them. They’re perfectly imperfect and it suits them so well.
I’ve been a fan of Helena’s for so long and she never ever fails to bring us a book that’ll hook us in and keep us addicted. I truly can’t wait to see what comes from her in the future.
A Secret for a Secret is a forbidden, sports romance that’s super sexy and adorable all mixed together. It’s fun, emotional and filled with flirty moments. It’s a book that you won’t want to put down until you hit the last page.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
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May 15, 20203.5 STARS
This was so stinking cute, y'all! Like goofy smile on my face the entire time reading sort of cute.
Ryan Kingston is definitely a change of pace from your typical professional hockey player. The man is a freaking boy scout. He doesn't swear. He doesn't drink. He doesn't disappoint his parents. And he doesn't do one-night stands. He's a guy that was a perfect kid growing up and then got the shocker of a century from his parents and finds himself reeling at a bar about it. One drink and a chance encounter with a beautiful woman leads to another drink and a different encounter entirely. But then he finds out that his beautiful one-night stand is the GM's daughter and new assistant. Ruh roh.
Queenie is a free spirit. She's never quite found herself and sees herself as a disappointment for her devoted father. She can't find a job that sticks and always seems to mess up. So when her father tells her that the hockey players are off limits, she's determined to do things right. But it's tough to keep it friendly when your chemistry is through the roof and Ryan is determined to do things right with her and date her.
Now don't pay my rating any mind, because this is based entirely on personal preference here. While I loved the opposites attract thing, Queenie and Ryan weren't my usual cuppa when it comes to characters. Ryan was just a bit too sweet for my reading tastes. Stop judging me! I do love that he still had full alpha vibes even with all that sweetness. Queenie was a touch too brash for my particular tastes too. Though I did love her fire and spark. Ultimately, I loved the story and the characters, even if it wasn't my typical preference. I simply adore all things Helena Hunting and this series just does it for me. It's tough to follow the perfection that was book two for me, but this one still definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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Give us a chance to get through this together, Queenie. Let me catch you when you fall. Let me be your safe place to land.”
This was so stinking cute, y'all! Like goofy smile on my face the entire time reading sort of cute.
Ryan Kingston is definitely a change of pace from your typical professional hockey player. The man is a freaking boy scout. He doesn't swear. He doesn't drink. He doesn't disappoint his parents. And he doesn't do one-night stands. He's a guy that was a perfect kid growing up and then got the shocker of a century from his parents and finds himself reeling at a bar about it. One drink and a chance encounter with a beautiful woman leads to another drink and a different encounter entirely. But then he finds out that his beautiful one-night stand is the GM's daughter and new assistant. Ruh roh.
Queenie is a free spirit. She's never quite found herself and sees herself as a disappointment for her devoted father. She can't find a job that sticks and always seems to mess up. So when her father tells her that the hockey players are off limits, she's determined to do things right. But it's tough to keep it friendly when your chemistry is through the roof and Ryan is determined to do things right with her and date her.
Now don't pay my rating any mind, because this is based entirely on personal preference here. While I loved the opposites attract thing, Queenie and Ryan weren't my usual cuppa when it comes to characters. Ryan was just a bit too sweet for my reading tastes. Stop judging me! I do love that he still had full alpha vibes even with all that sweetness. Queenie was a touch too brash for my particular tastes too. Though I did love her fire and spark. Ultimately, I loved the story and the characters, even if it wasn't my typical preference. I simply adore all things Helena Hunting and this series just does it for me. It's tough to follow the perfection that was book two for me, but this one still definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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October 23, 2020
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was cute. I had liked the H in the previous book in the series, so I was happy to get him again and that he got a HEA. I like the opposites attract type stories and we definitely get that here. I did, however, struggle with the h after a while. I like my hs confident and where they are still strong in their vulnerability. I understand that her mom messed her up, but it kind of bugged me that she didn’t actively try to work on that damage — especially since she was a psych major. That might just be my own psych degree talking and some projecting...but it bugged me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Queenie and Ryan’s story. They meet when both of them are in a bad place in a bar and have a (kind of) ONS. They then are both shocked when they find out that Queenie has started a new job as an assistant to her dad who is the General Manager for Ryan’s professional hockey team. They become friends but then cannot deny the attraction to each other they still feel after their night together and end up giving in. There is some ex and family drama and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Queenie and Ryan’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Ryan. I really liked him. He was straight laced (except in the bedroom) and he’s super sweet and loyal. And when he called her “my queen” it made me swoon a little 😜
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Queenie. I liked her but then I struggled with her. She had low self esteem and it got old.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute epilogue with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was cute. I had liked the H in the previous book in the series, so I was happy to get him again and that he got a HEA. I like the opposites attract type stories and we definitely get that here. I did, however, struggle with the h after a while. I like my hs confident and where they are still strong in their vulnerability. I understand that her mom messed her up, but it kind of bugged me that she didn’t actively try to work on that damage — especially since she was a psych major. That might just be my own psych degree talking and some projecting...but it bugged me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Queenie and Ryan’s story. They meet when both of them are in a bad place in a bar and have a (kind of) ONS. They then are both shocked when they find out that Queenie has started a new job as an assistant to her dad who is the General Manager for Ryan’s professional hockey team. They become friends but then cannot deny the attraction to each other they still feel after their night together and end up giving in. There is some ex and family drama and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Queenie and Ryan’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Ryan. I really liked him. He was straight laced (except in the bedroom) and he’s super sweet and loyal. And when he called her “my queen” it made me swoon a little 😜
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Queenie. I liked her but then I struggled with her. She had low self esteem and it got old.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute epilogue with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
May 12, 2020
I’m falling in love with her chaos.
I am an absolute sucker for a hero who loves a heroine who doesn’t fully love herself. I live for a hero who appreciates nearly every single thing about a heroine that she considers a flaw about herself. Nothing gives me the feels more than a hero who knows to give a heroine the space to grow at her own pace, and supports her while she does it. Ryan Kingston is all of that, and Queenie is the perfect passionate storm that blows into the calm that is his life.
Queenie and King start as one night of unexpected fun when they both needed it. When they are pushed back together as sort of co-workers, Queenie being King’s bosses daughter, they decide it’s best to keep it platonic. *insert side eye* But I think we all know how that song and dance goes. This one was just so dang good. Of course there is some silly drama, and some laugh out loud moments, this IS a Helena Hunting novel, but at its core this is two opposite souls clicking into place.
A Secret for A Secret is a yin and yang love story that will make you swoon hard and feel all of the feels. Loved it and loved Queenie and King.
Available now!!
*ARC
I am an absolute sucker for a hero who loves a heroine who doesn’t fully love herself. I live for a hero who appreciates nearly every single thing about a heroine that she considers a flaw about herself. Nothing gives me the feels more than a hero who knows to give a heroine the space to grow at her own pace, and supports her while she does it. Ryan Kingston is all of that, and Queenie is the perfect passionate storm that blows into the calm that is his life.
Queenie and King start as one night of unexpected fun when they both needed it. When they are pushed back together as sort of co-workers, Queenie being King’s bosses daughter, they decide it’s best to keep it platonic. *insert side eye* But I think we all know how that song and dance goes. This one was just so dang good. Of course there is some silly drama, and some laugh out loud moments, this IS a Helena Hunting novel, but at its core this is two opposite souls clicking into place.
A Secret for A Secret is a yin and yang love story that will make you swoon hard and feel all of the feels. Loved it and loved Queenie and King.
Available now!!
*ARC
August 25, 2022
“He’s the calm and I’m the storm”
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙❤️💜
Heat: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😢🙃🙂😚🥰
The heroine: Queenie - she is the daughter of the General Manager of the NHL Seattle expansion team. Her mother left when she was a baby and she was raised by her father alone, she tends to be a rule breaker and gets into trouble which her father usually has to help her get out of. She was on the verge of getting a psychology degree when her mother told her she would make a horrible psychologist, so she quit school and has since had and got fired from a string of waitress jobs.
The Hero: Ryan Kingston - He is a former boy scout, drinks milk with every meal, wears khaki’s and polo shirts, drives below the speed limit and is an all around good guy. He is also a hot as puck NHL Hockey Goalie.
The Story: On the night King finds out that his sister is really his mother, and Queenie loses yet another service job, they meet in a bar, get drunk and have a one-night stand. Six weeks later, when the season begins, King finds out that Queenie is not only the new assistant to his team’s general manager, but his daughter as well.
Helena Hunting does hockey romance like nobody else and I love all of them. I recently read Little Lies which is a spinoff series from this and the Pucked series and I loved to see Lavender, River and Kodiak from that book as little kids in this one. Queenie from this book also appeared in Little Lies, so it was nice to see her before she had her life together.
The book was told in dual points of view via dual narration. Narration was done by Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke who are two of my favorites. Jason has a deep sexy voice and Stella has a clear voice and she is great at portraying emotion through her voice.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙❤️💜
Heat: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😢🙃🙂😚🥰
The heroine: Queenie - she is the daughter of the General Manager of the NHL Seattle expansion team. Her mother left when she was a baby and she was raised by her father alone, she tends to be a rule breaker and gets into trouble which her father usually has to help her get out of. She was on the verge of getting a psychology degree when her mother told her she would make a horrible psychologist, so she quit school and has since had and got fired from a string of waitress jobs.
The Hero: Ryan Kingston - He is a former boy scout, drinks milk with every meal, wears khaki’s and polo shirts, drives below the speed limit and is an all around good guy. He is also a hot as puck NHL Hockey Goalie.
The Story: On the night King finds out that his sister is really his mother, and Queenie loses yet another service job, they meet in a bar, get drunk and have a one-night stand. Six weeks later, when the season begins, King finds out that Queenie is not only the new assistant to his team’s general manager, but his daughter as well.
Helena Hunting does hockey romance like nobody else and I love all of them. I recently read Little Lies which is a spinoff series from this and the Pucked series and I loved to see Lavender, River and Kodiak from that book as little kids in this one. Queenie from this book also appeared in Little Lies, so it was nice to see her before she had her life together.
The book was told in dual points of view via dual narration. Narration was done by Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke who are two of my favorites. Jason has a deep sexy voice and Stella has a clear voice and she is great at portraying emotion through her voice.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
April 8, 2020
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He’s the calm to my storm. My still lake at dawn. My king.
Ryan Kingston is the milk drinking, khaki & polo shirt wearing, straight-laced goalie of Seattle’s top-ranking NHL team. He quickly falls for the one woman who is his complete opposite and totally forbidden. Queenie Masterson is the definition of chaos. She’s also the GM’s only daughter. Their story is incredibly steamy while light on angst and Helena Hunting’s signature comedic sense of humor. King and Queenie fall into a passionate romance and are a perfect match. It’s only King’s crazy family and a secret from Queenie’s past that post a threat to their relationship. While I found the story to be entertaining, I wished for the usual laugh-out-loud moments that I am used to from this author.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 3.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
”A SECRET FOR A SECRET” releases on May 12th.
Amazon US → https://amzn.to/33ks3io
CA → https://amzn.to/2RX9EWS
UK → https://amzn.to/38LVU7f
AU → https://amzn.to/38LOwsw
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He’s the calm to my storm. My still lake at dawn. My king.
Ryan Kingston is the milk drinking, khaki & polo shirt wearing, straight-laced goalie of Seattle’s top-ranking NHL team. He quickly falls for the one woman who is his complete opposite and totally forbidden. Queenie Masterson is the definition of chaos. She’s also the GM’s only daughter. Their story is incredibly steamy while light on angst and Helena Hunting’s signature comedic sense of humor. King and Queenie fall into a passionate romance and are a perfect match. It’s only King’s crazy family and a secret from Queenie’s past that post a threat to their relationship. While I found the story to be entertaining, I wished for the usual laugh-out-loud moments that I am used to from this author.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 3.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
”A SECRET FOR A SECRET” releases on May 12th.
Amazon US → https://amzn.to/33ks3io
CA → https://amzn.to/2RX9EWS
UK → https://amzn.to/38LVU7f
AU → https://amzn.to/38LOwsw
May 17, 2021
Queenie and King.
There was this very sparky one night stand six weeks ago and now they find out that she's working for the manager of the hockey team he's playing for. And not only that, but said manager is her dad!
Her dad quickly initiated a no-dating-the-players policy. But they can be friends, right?
And maybe her dad won't be too mad if they asked nicely if they could date??
And his crazy family and her secret past won't become a problem soon, right?? LOL!
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ...
══════════════════
Adorable!
Another beautiful hockey romance!
Queenie and Ryan/King are soo adorable and funny and awkward. Especially sweetheart King. He's soo boy scouty and just so ... good!
I absolutely adored those two. It was so super adorable and hilarious and crazy to watch them fight for their happily ever after!
I loved that we didn't get this typical misunderstanding - you know the one? The one romances almost always use - no idea why - where we fight and break up and it could've all been cleared up with just one conversation or whatever - ugh - I hate those! ☺
I just loved reading this ... and seeing all the people again!
Can't wait for more - I wouldn't mind reading Lavender and Kody's love story one day! ☺
A SECRET FOR A SECRET was such an adorable + funny Hockey Romance!!! I just loved it!! Run to your nearest amazon for your own King - he'll be sold out in no time - and this one is MINE!
💜
💜
March 19, 2021
4.5 Rules to Be Broken Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
We have heard over and over again, opposites attract. When there is an agreement over the ages about something like this, it is no surprise when it turns out to be true. Helena Hunting took this idea and made it one of the core meanings in A Secret for a Secret.
Ryan Kingston, the goalie for Seattle's NHL team, is trying desperately to get drunk. He has lined up numerous potent drinks and is struggling to down any of them.
Were they made incorrectly-nope
Were they not tasty-nope
They were perfectly fine. The problem was that Kingston wasn't a drinker. The only drink he indulged in was...Milk, gallons of it. So as he sat at the bar, taking sips of these drinks, it was like he was taking medicine and the medicine was going to get him what he needed...A Blinding, Solid Drunk.
Queenie Masterson is after the same results, however, she has no problem downing two martinis one right after the other. She is sitting next to King and wonders out loud why he has all these drinks in front of him. King, introduces himself as Ryan, why, he has no idea, and proceeds to say he learned a secret about his life today and wants to just forget about everything. Queenie, understanding exactly that feeling and shares with Ryan she too has had a terrible day and has another secret to share.
Both look at each other and at that moment decide to share a secret for a secret. They tell what has been the deepest, darkest thing that is giving them this pain, and the telling is liberating. It also binds them and Queenie decides to guide Ryan into having shots, and then see where things go.
Well, They Go Extremely Well, Thank You Very Much. Ryan wakes, hungover barely able to get out of the bed, and looks for Queenie. Unfortunately, all that is left of this amazing, sensual, amazing woman is a post-it note telling him thanks, but no telephone number for him to follow up.
This is really disappointing because Ryan wanted to go out with Queenie and get to know her better. She had this energy, nothing like his normal vibe. She was like an exploding star, bright and shiny. As he remembers their time together, how intense and clearly very different from his time with his ex-girlfriend for the past years, Ryan cannot put it aside.
Which is very unusual for Ryan. Ryan has always been able to compartmentalize things, yet Queenie keeps seeping into his head. She is there when he goes through his numerous routines. His cleaning up, his exact driving, and organized eating pattern directed by his phone alarms.
Ryan isn't the only one who has had thoughts about the sexy time they shared. Queenie has spent many a night reliving the dirty, filthy things this conservatively dressed hunk of a man did...yes, he left quite an impression.
Queenie is back in Seattle because she has returned home to try to figure out her life. It seems Queenie hasn't been able to get herself on a path for some time now. Queenie, being 24, felt it was time to be settled, have her career on track. She should not be starting a new position as her father's personal assistant. As the General Manager of the Hockey team, her dad had always had an assistant, so the position made sense. It just frustrated Queenie that once again, she ran to her dad to help her and she felt she should be doing more.
It is the first day of the new season for Ryan and as the team is gathered to go through the usual meetings, talks from the GM and Coaches, he sees this beautiful woman with her back to him and the team. When she turns, he is shocked to see the bedmate he has been dreaming of...there right in front of him. After a couple of worries about her relationship with the GM, it turns out she is his daughter.
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...
And Queenie is just as shocked because her dad asked her to not get involved with any of the people involved with the team, on the ice and off.
This is the perfect set up and if this story was about this conflict only, it would entertain. But Helena Hunting took it to another level involving multiple layers of conflicts and cray cray. We have both of them wanting to be with each other but fighting their desires because of the dad.
We have Ryan's family and all of their insanity, Hannah not included. There are ex's popping up and causing all sorts of things. Through it all, though, you have Ryan standing right beside Queenie supporting when she thinks she doesn't deserve it. He is what she needs and she is everything he never knew he wanted.
This story took me by the hand, told the story of Still Waters Run Deep...and just because a guy wears khakis and polo shirts, don't assume he is all J. Crew and not hiding an alpha beast underneath.
I do not know if this is it for this series. I think for sure a little novella may be coming for Queenie's dad...if not, Ms. Hunting...hint hint...just sayin' there is something there...
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss (All In, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
So ready to read this tonight
❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️
Yes, I am That Guy...
The Oxymoron of Hockey...
No...Not a Moron...
Just a Guy Who...
Lives and Dies by The Rules...
What Rules You Ask...
Well...
Don't Fight...
Don't Speed...
Don't Get Drunk...
And Above All Else...
Never, Never Pick up...
Random Women at Bars...
You see, everything...
Hockey Players are Known For...
Hence, Oxymoron...
But Here is the Deal...
My Life Took an Ugly Twist...
I was Lost...
And Did Something I Never Do...
Broke All My Rules...
Got Drunk, Shared Secrets...
Got Naked and Woke With...
A Thank You Note...
And her Panties Too...
The Season is Starting...
Jazzed to get Started...
And in Walks the GM's Daughter...
I Guess We Both Have...
More in Common With...
A Secret for a Secret-May 12, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
We have heard over and over again, opposites attract. When there is an agreement over the ages about something like this, it is no surprise when it turns out to be true. Helena Hunting took this idea and made it one of the core meanings in A Secret for a Secret.
Ryan Kingston, the goalie for Seattle's NHL team, is trying desperately to get drunk. He has lined up numerous potent drinks and is struggling to down any of them.
Were they made incorrectly-nope
Were they not tasty-nope
They were perfectly fine. The problem was that Kingston wasn't a drinker. The only drink he indulged in was...Milk, gallons of it. So as he sat at the bar, taking sips of these drinks, it was like he was taking medicine and the medicine was going to get him what he needed...A Blinding, Solid Drunk.
Queenie Masterson is after the same results, however, she has no problem downing two martinis one right after the other. She is sitting next to King and wonders out loud why he has all these drinks in front of him. King, introduces himself as Ryan, why, he has no idea, and proceeds to say he learned a secret about his life today and wants to just forget about everything. Queenie, understanding exactly that feeling and shares with Ryan she too has had a terrible day and has another secret to share.
Both look at each other and at that moment decide to share a secret for a secret. They tell what has been the deepest, darkest thing that is giving them this pain, and the telling is liberating. It also binds them and Queenie decides to guide Ryan into having shots, and then see where things go.
Well, They Go Extremely Well, Thank You Very Much. Ryan wakes, hungover barely able to get out of the bed, and looks for Queenie. Unfortunately, all that is left of this amazing, sensual, amazing woman is a post-it note telling him thanks, but no telephone number for him to follow up.
This is really disappointing because Ryan wanted to go out with Queenie and get to know her better. She had this energy, nothing like his normal vibe. She was like an exploding star, bright and shiny. As he remembers their time together, how intense and clearly very different from his time with his ex-girlfriend for the past years, Ryan cannot put it aside.
Which is very unusual for Ryan. Ryan has always been able to compartmentalize things, yet Queenie keeps seeping into his head. She is there when he goes through his numerous routines. His cleaning up, his exact driving, and organized eating pattern directed by his phone alarms.
Ryan isn't the only one who has had thoughts about the sexy time they shared. Queenie has spent many a night reliving the dirty, filthy things this conservatively dressed hunk of a man did...yes, he left quite an impression.
Queenie is back in Seattle because she has returned home to try to figure out her life. It seems Queenie hasn't been able to get herself on a path for some time now. Queenie, being 24, felt it was time to be settled, have her career on track. She should not be starting a new position as her father's personal assistant. As the General Manager of the Hockey team, her dad had always had an assistant, so the position made sense. It just frustrated Queenie that once again, she ran to her dad to help her and she felt she should be doing more.
It is the first day of the new season for Ryan and as the team is gathered to go through the usual meetings, talks from the GM and Coaches, he sees this beautiful woman with her back to him and the team. When she turns, he is shocked to see the bedmate he has been dreaming of...there right in front of him. After a couple of worries about her relationship with the GM, it turns out she is his daughter.
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...
And Queenie is just as shocked because her dad asked her to not get involved with any of the people involved with the team, on the ice and off.
This is the perfect set up and if this story was about this conflict only, it would entertain. But Helena Hunting took it to another level involving multiple layers of conflicts and cray cray. We have both of them wanting to be with each other but fighting their desires because of the dad.
We have Ryan's family and all of their insanity, Hannah not included. There are ex's popping up and causing all sorts of things. Through it all, though, you have Ryan standing right beside Queenie supporting when she thinks she doesn't deserve it. He is what she needs and she is everything he never knew he wanted.
This story took me by the hand, told the story of Still Waters Run Deep...and just because a guy wears khakis and polo shirts, don't assume he is all J. Crew and not hiding an alpha beast underneath.
I do not know if this is it for this series. I think for sure a little novella may be coming for Queenie's dad...if not, Ms. Hunting...hint hint...just sayin' there is something there...
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss (All In, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
So ready to read this tonight
❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️
Yes, I am That Guy...
The Oxymoron of Hockey...
No...Not a Moron...
Just a Guy Who...
Lives and Dies by The Rules...
What Rules You Ask...
Well...
Don't Fight...
Don't Speed...
Don't Get Drunk...
And Above All Else...
Never, Never Pick up...
Random Women at Bars...
You see, everything...
Hockey Players are Known For...
Hence, Oxymoron...
But Here is the Deal...
My Life Took an Ugly Twist...
I was Lost...
And Did Something I Never Do...
Broke All My Rules...
Got Drunk, Shared Secrets...
Got Naked and Woke With...
A Thank You Note...
And her Panties Too...
The Season is Starting...
Jazzed to get Started...
And in Walks the GM's Daughter...
I Guess We Both Have...
More in Common With...
A Secret for a Secret-May 12, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 4, 2023
5 King and Queenie Stars
My musical muses for this book are Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs and Wilder Days by Morgan Wade.
She’s a tornado, and half the time I don’t know what to do with her, but I still want to get caught up in her vortex.
This third standalone book in the 'All In' Series is a true Opposites Attract romance. Rumour has it you should look out for the quiet guys and Ryan Kingston certainly packs a few surprises.
Queenie and King meet and hook up for one night , which is uncharacteristic for both of them. Fate intervenes and they end up meeting under very different circumstances six weeks later. When they realise who each other are , they also realise that they cannot be together. King is the goalie for Seattle's Ice Hockey Team and Queenie's dad is the GM and she is also her Dad's assistant so protocol dictates that these two should not have a relationship but the heart wants what the heart wants and this King wants his Queen...rules be damned.
On the outside , King is a milk drinking, khakis wearing good guy. Always the peacekeeper, always impeccably behaved but behind closed doors, Queenie discovers Ryan has some serious moves and all that passion is bubbling just under the surface.
"I took the Boy Scout out of the polo and unleashed a very dirty man."
King is an interesting Hero and not one I would normally gravitate to - I like an edgier Hero but Ryan really grew on me. His unwavering loyalty and his inherent kindness gave my kindle heart lots of squeezes. Plus...the man is pretty hot , he just needed a woman like Queenie to make him open up. He needed a shove in the right direction and the chemistry between these two is pretty much crackling off of the page.
“Lock the Boy Scout in the closet and let yourself off your leash, King.”
Queenie is an excellent heroine. She wasn't badass , which was what I was expecting from the blurb. She was incredibly likeable and I really felt for her. She has had significant challenges and she does everything she can to overcome them. I loved the relationship between her and her Dad, Jake. (BTW, please let there be a book somewhere for Jake....) She is definitely the opposite of Ryan in many ways but at heart they are both loyal, kind and good people. She is artistic and messy whilst he is neat, orderly and drives under the speed limit. He knocks back milk. She shoots back White Russians. He needs someone to unleash the passion and she's the woman to do it.
I was not as keen on King's family - especially his Mum. I liked Hanna very much and she was an interesting character. His brother and Mum were not so endearing. A lot of the rule obeying from King stems from the childhood expectations of his family and even though he's all grown up , his Mum still
sees him as a boy.
“Are you going through a rebellious phase?”
“I’m thirty. I make seven million dollars a year, I live in a house that’s totally paid for, and I drive a Volvo. No, Mom, I’m not going through a rebellious phase.”
Overall this was a really enjoyable story that had romance , passion , comedy and some angst. It pulled my heart strings and left me smiling and feeling happy.
HEA? Yes, gorgeous.
Cheating? No.
Re read via Audiobook in September 2023. Excellent narration by Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke. Listening Time 8h 37m.
My musical muses for this book are Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs and Wilder Days by Morgan Wade.
She’s a tornado, and half the time I don’t know what to do with her, but I still want to get caught up in her vortex.
This third standalone book in the 'All In' Series is a true Opposites Attract romance. Rumour has it you should look out for the quiet guys and Ryan Kingston certainly packs a few surprises.
Queenie and King meet and hook up for one night , which is uncharacteristic for both of them. Fate intervenes and they end up meeting under very different circumstances six weeks later. When they realise who each other are , they also realise that they cannot be together. King is the goalie for Seattle's Ice Hockey Team and Queenie's dad is the GM and she is also her Dad's assistant so protocol dictates that these two should not have a relationship but the heart wants what the heart wants and this King wants his Queen...rules be damned.
On the outside , King is a milk drinking, khakis wearing good guy. Always the peacekeeper, always impeccably behaved but behind closed doors, Queenie discovers Ryan has some serious moves and all that passion is bubbling just under the surface.
"I took the Boy Scout out of the polo and unleashed a very dirty man."
King is an interesting Hero and not one I would normally gravitate to - I like an edgier Hero but Ryan really grew on me. His unwavering loyalty and his inherent kindness gave my kindle heart lots of squeezes. Plus...the man is pretty hot , he just needed a woman like Queenie to make him open up. He needed a shove in the right direction and the chemistry between these two is pretty much crackling off of the page.
“Lock the Boy Scout in the closet and let yourself off your leash, King.”
Queenie is an excellent heroine. She wasn't badass , which was what I was expecting from the blurb. She was incredibly likeable and I really felt for her. She has had significant challenges and she does everything she can to overcome them. I loved the relationship between her and her Dad, Jake. (BTW, please let there be a book somewhere for Jake....) She is definitely the opposite of Ryan in many ways but at heart they are both loyal, kind and good people. She is artistic and messy whilst he is neat, orderly and drives under the speed limit. He knocks back milk. She shoots back White Russians. He needs someone to unleash the passion and she's the woman to do it.
I was not as keen on King's family - especially his Mum. I liked Hanna very much and she was an interesting character. His brother and Mum were not so endearing. A lot of the rule obeying from King stems from the childhood expectations of his family and even though he's all grown up , his Mum still
sees him as a boy.
“Are you going through a rebellious phase?”
“I’m thirty. I make seven million dollars a year, I live in a house that’s totally paid for, and I drive a Volvo. No, Mom, I’m not going through a rebellious phase.”
Overall this was a really enjoyable story that had romance , passion , comedy and some angst. It pulled my heart strings and left me smiling and feeling happy.
HEA? Yes, gorgeous.
Cheating? No.
Re read via Audiobook in September 2023. Excellent narration by Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke. Listening Time 8h 37m.
May 11, 2020
4.5 'The calm to my storm' Stars!
ARC provided by the the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Who fell in love with the sweet Ryan Kingston in the All In series? THIS GIRL! And I loved him even more after reading his wonderful love story with his queen, Queenie. How freaking adorable is that? I love me a funny, sugary sweet and steamy sports romance and Helena Hunting is one of the best authors at those. Obviously, she did not fail with this whole series and neither with A Secret for a Secret. This crew of characters is just that amazing!
So, A Secret for a Secret is Helena’s third installment in her All In series and it focuses on the “forbidden” relationship between King and Queenie. These two are not in their best moment and they found understanding and a whole lot of chemistry in a drunken passionate one night stand. They did not imagine they would run into each other again. Well, things get complicated when this couple meets again in a meeting where King realizes Queenie is the daughter of the GM in the hockey team he is the goalie of. Things are about to get secretive, steamy and emotional!
She’s a tornado, and half the time I don’t know what to do with her, but I still want to get caught up in her vortex.
I loved this couple! Gah, they were so freaking cute together! Ryan Kingston is different from what you expect in the typical romance hero and I appreciated that. He is such a good man, tender, attentive, loving and SHY! And Queenie is just as strong and endearing. It was great to read how she finds herself all over again throughout the book. I just adored how this love relationship developed, how they peel the vulnerable layers off of each other, sharing their secrets and falling in love in the process. That turns into a beautiful relationship, with a bit of light drama, a mind-blowing chemistry and a whole lot of feels.
I feel like I’ve finally found my person. The one who won’t try to tame my chaos but will let me live in it and help me balance my impulsiveness with stability. He’s yin and I’m yang. He’s sugar and I’m salt.
Therefore, I am rating A Secret for a Secret with 4.5 STARS because it was a great addition to the All In series. Completely different from the other two books but still in the same style that we all love from Helena Hunting. I loved King and Queenie, I loved their relationship and I loved the moments with the rest of the crew. These characters are just amazing and freaking hilarious! I hope we get more books because I am definitely ready for more. Gah, I am so happy these two got together and they got their HEA. Highly recommend!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC provided by the the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Who fell in love with the sweet Ryan Kingston in the All In series? THIS GIRL! And I loved him even more after reading his wonderful love story with his queen, Queenie. How freaking adorable is that? I love me a funny, sugary sweet and steamy sports romance and Helena Hunting is one of the best authors at those. Obviously, she did not fail with this whole series and neither with A Secret for a Secret. This crew of characters is just that amazing!
So, A Secret for a Secret is Helena’s third installment in her All In series and it focuses on the “forbidden” relationship between King and Queenie. These two are not in their best moment and they found understanding and a whole lot of chemistry in a drunken passionate one night stand. They did not imagine they would run into each other again. Well, things get complicated when this couple meets again in a meeting where King realizes Queenie is the daughter of the GM in the hockey team he is the goalie of. Things are about to get secretive, steamy and emotional!
She’s a tornado, and half the time I don’t know what to do with her, but I still want to get caught up in her vortex.
I loved this couple! Gah, they were so freaking cute together! Ryan Kingston is different from what you expect in the typical romance hero and I appreciated that. He is such a good man, tender, attentive, loving and SHY! And Queenie is just as strong and endearing. It was great to read how she finds herself all over again throughout the book. I just adored how this love relationship developed, how they peel the vulnerable layers off of each other, sharing their secrets and falling in love in the process. That turns into a beautiful relationship, with a bit of light drama, a mind-blowing chemistry and a whole lot of feels.
I feel like I’ve finally found my person. The one who won’t try to tame my chaos but will let me live in it and help me balance my impulsiveness with stability. He’s yin and I’m yang. He’s sugar and I’m salt.
Therefore, I am rating A Secret for a Secret with 4.5 STARS because it was a great addition to the All In series. Completely different from the other two books but still in the same style that we all love from Helena Hunting. I loved King and Queenie, I loved their relationship and I loved the moments with the rest of the crew. These characters are just amazing and freaking hilarious! I hope we get more books because I am definitely ready for more. Gah, I am so happy these two got together and they got their HEA. Highly recommend!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
May 16, 2021
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
I'm still on my busy week/month/life after covid, and couldn't stop to actually read a book! So thanks to Kindle unlimited with audible narration, I've been able to grab a few listening moments between my work and drive.
This book is one of those included on the program, and it was on my May's TBR before the next release A Kiss for a Kiss.
This is my favorite series by Helena Hunting and I can say that A secret for a secret is a favorite book too!
Since the first book, Kingston and his polite-good boy-glass of milk ways, I was intrigued and excited about his story!
I don't even know why it took me soo long to read it!
He's an incredible character and the perfect hero! He's also super sexy and irresistible!
On the other side of this amazing couple is Queenie... And she is a mess! 😂😂
For every put together and well folded piece of King's life, there's at least 10 crumpled and smelly pieces of Queenie's life scattered around the room and over the chairs!
They're the definition of opposite sides!
But I couldn't imagine no one else better to mess up King's polos shirts and caqui pants!
Their chemistry were amazing, their friendship and how incredible for each other they were just made this book an easy and fast read/listen.
Queenie's relationship with the other wives and with Lavender deserves to be mentioned too! They're definitely an sanding group of friends and Bishop and Steve still owns my heart! 😂😂😂
I loved all the cameos from previous characters and I'm over the moon with the news of Jake's book!
🎧 About the Audiobook Narration... 🎧
I have to say that I'm not a huge fan of Jason Clarke's narration, because although he have an incredible voice, it's always lacking in interpretation and emotion. It's flat and he looks like he's bored out of his mind. He shows more emotion when he's doing other character's voice, which isn't enough to me.
Stella Bloom did it good in bringing all the right tones to the messy and funny Queenie!
May 17, 2020
I LOVE a good guy hero, and King is one of the sweetest with a heart of gold. This was another great audio in the series!!
February 2, 2025
Spoilers ahead 3* on this reread
After a bad day for both of them Queenie and King meet at a bar, lots of alcohol later they have an almost sex ONS. Weeks later Queenie is starting her new job as her father's assistant, her dad is the GM of a NHL team.....turns out her almost ONS is also the team's goalie. Though sparks fly between the two they agree to stay as friends as they both now work for the same team.....until things come to a head and they can no longer stay away from each other.
*****
I remember the first book I ever read from the author the h was a hot mess and I never tried her again. But I (apparently) enjoyed this series back when I first read them so I decided to do a reread before trying the final book.
Queenie was a mess too, I get her situation with her life being out of control but her messiness in the house irked me badly. She's 24 c'mon now.
She had self esteem issues because her mom is a bitch but she also had an amazing dad so idk she kinda irritated me tbh
Their names!!! OMFG Queenie and King? Seriously 😒
So much OTT mess, the exes, King broke up with his ex, his high school sweetheart 6 months before he met Queenie but she still calls him expecting them to get back together. His mom isn't really his mom, his sister is his biological mom🤦🏿♀️ Queenie's ex is traded to the team and he's a gigantic dick. Apparently they were married and he never filed the divorce so that causes some drama too. It was all just OTT soap opera bs.
That's not to say the book was bad, it wasn't, it was actually a pretty ok read. King wasn't a manwhore, he was actually a really good guy
Dependable, steady, loyal and thoughtful was king. I wanted a little more oomph to his personality but it is what it is.
All in all i enjoyed this one enough to move on to the next.
******
They have a drunken hookup, no sex but wet bumping
No others since they first met
Non manwhore H, his ex caused a little drama but he was way over her. They stayed together for friendship more than anything else.
Her ex was a complete asshole, with a pregnant fiancée, he made some obnoxious statements and the divorce thing caused some drama but they were well and truly over
No third act breakup though she tried to push him away
ETA it's not until the next book that I remember King is 30 and Queenie is in her 20s, this read more as a NA romance
Original thoughts
Spoilers ahead, 3.5* not quite 4 but bumped up because of the non manwhore H (yayyyyyy)
Full review later but for now I really liked King, Queenie like her name, grated a tiny bit. All in all I'm liking this series
No cheating
Ex drama both his and hers
After a bad day for both of them Queenie and King meet at a bar, lots of alcohol later they have an almost sex ONS. Weeks later Queenie is starting her new job as her father's assistant, her dad is the GM of a NHL team.....turns out her almost ONS is also the team's goalie. Though sparks fly between the two they agree to stay as friends as they both now work for the same team.....until things come to a head and they can no longer stay away from each other.
*****
I remember the first book I ever read from the author the h was a hot mess and I never tried her again. But I (apparently) enjoyed this series back when I first read them so I decided to do a reread before trying the final book.
Queenie was a mess too, I get her situation with her life being out of control but her messiness in the house irked me badly. She's 24 c'mon now.
She had self esteem issues because her mom is a bitch but she also had an amazing dad so idk she kinda irritated me tbh
Their names!!! OMFG Queenie and King? Seriously 😒
So much OTT mess, the exes, King broke up with his ex, his high school sweetheart 6 months before he met Queenie but she still calls him expecting them to get back together. His mom isn't really his mom, his sister is his biological mom🤦🏿♀️ Queenie's ex is traded to the team and he's a gigantic dick. Apparently they were married and he never filed the divorce so that causes some drama too. It was all just OTT soap opera bs.
That's not to say the book was bad, it wasn't, it was actually a pretty ok read. King wasn't a manwhore, he was actually a really good guy
Dependable, steady, loyal and thoughtful was king. I wanted a little more oomph to his personality but it is what it is.
All in all i enjoyed this one enough to move on to the next.
******
They have a drunken hookup, no sex but wet bumping
No others since they first met
Non manwhore H, his ex caused a little drama but he was way over her. They stayed together for friendship more than anything else.
Her ex was a complete asshole, with a pregnant fiancée, he made some obnoxious statements and the divorce thing caused some drama but they were well and truly over
No third act breakup though she tried to push him away
ETA it's not until the next book that I remember King is 30 and Queenie is in her 20s, this read more as a NA romance
Original thoughts
Spoilers ahead, 3.5* not quite 4 but bumped up because of the non manwhore H (yayyyyyy)
Full review later but for now I really liked King, Queenie like her name, grated a tiny bit. All in all I'm liking this series
No cheating
Ex drama both his and hers
May 11, 2020
Romance books are full of bad boys who swear, drink too much, treat their parents with no respect and cheat on their partners. And yet, countless readers continue justifying their behaviour and find excuses for them. And there are very few (too few) books where the protagonist is a good man, caring and thoughtful, has principles and lives according to them. I don't know about you, but I find this kind of guy irresistible.
Ryan Kingston (AKA King) is a goalkeeper. His job is to save and protect. He is also as good of a guy as it gets. No lying, drunken one-night stands with strangers, or anything impulsive or chaotic. Partly this can be explained by his family story. He just recently found out that his older sister Hanna is really his mother, and his caring and sometimes interfering Mother is ....his grandmother. His brother (Uncle) who has been in and out of prison a few times is one of the reasons why his parents (grandparents) were very strict with him and instilled a healthy respect for rules and acting sensibly at all times. Ryan lets his guard just once: the night when he finds out that he's been lied to all his life, shocked, upset, and confused about what this discovery will mean for all of them, he gets drunk with Queenie, a beautiful and lonely girl who has had her own share of trouble. They trade secrets and do shots, and have a wild night with no expectation to see each other again. Until Ryan finds out that Queenie is going to work as the new assistant for the team general manager. Not only that- she is also the manager's daughter and is strictly off limits for any player on the team.
There is great chemistry and undeniable attraction between Queenie, who might have made a few serious mistakes in her life, and King, who does everything by the book and needs somebody to show him that there is a lot in life he's been missing out on. Ryan is sweet and tender, but it also takes a special kind of girl to appreciate and love him for himself, not his money or his success or even his family. Queenie is smart, artistic, kind and generous, but it takes a special kind of guy who is going to be there for her, and will help her lose her insecurities and start to believe in herself. Save and protect.
Sweet, sexy (there are a few hot and steamy scenes in this book- this is Helena Hunting, after all) and surprisingly romantic, A Secret for a Secret is a light and enjoyable read for all fans of contemporary sports romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Ryan Kingston (AKA King) is a goalkeeper. His job is to save and protect. He is also as good of a guy as it gets. No lying, drunken one-night stands with strangers, or anything impulsive or chaotic. Partly this can be explained by his family story. He just recently found out that his older sister Hanna is really his mother, and his caring and sometimes interfering Mother is ....his grandmother. His brother (Uncle) who has been in and out of prison a few times is one of the reasons why his parents (grandparents) were very strict with him and instilled a healthy respect for rules and acting sensibly at all times. Ryan lets his guard just once: the night when he finds out that he's been lied to all his life, shocked, upset, and confused about what this discovery will mean for all of them, he gets drunk with Queenie, a beautiful and lonely girl who has had her own share of trouble. They trade secrets and do shots, and have a wild night with no expectation to see each other again. Until Ryan finds out that Queenie is going to work as the new assistant for the team general manager. Not only that- she is also the manager's daughter and is strictly off limits for any player on the team.
There is great chemistry and undeniable attraction between Queenie, who might have made a few serious mistakes in her life, and King, who does everything by the book and needs somebody to show him that there is a lot in life he's been missing out on. Ryan is sweet and tender, but it also takes a special kind of girl to appreciate and love him for himself, not his money or his success or even his family. Queenie is smart, artistic, kind and generous, but it takes a special kind of guy who is going to be there for her, and will help her lose her insecurities and start to believe in herself. Save and protect.
Sweet, sexy (there are a few hot and steamy scenes in this book- this is Helena Hunting, after all) and surprisingly romantic, A Secret for a Secret is a light and enjoyable read for all fans of contemporary sports romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 15, 2020
★★ 4.5 stars! ★★
Hockey romances and Helena Hunting go together like pineapple and olives on pizza (hint: it’s a good thing and if you haven’t read A Favor for a Favor, you need to do that ASAP!). She infuses humor and heart into all of her books, but I have a huge soft spot for the hockey players. A Secret for a Secret is a friends-to-lovers sports romance that has a bit of the forbidden, but the best part is the characters with all of their glorious quirks.
Abandoned by her mother at a young age and raised by a single dad, Queenie can’t quite seem to get her life together. She’s is struggling to make it on her own, making mistake after mistake while also trying to be independent and not a burden for her father. Bad relationships, dropping out of college, and the inability to hold a long-term job seem to be the constant in Queenie’s life.
Kingston is the straightest arrow the hockey team has ever seen. Khakis, polos, driving under the speed limit, and committed relationships define his existence. Some startling revelations from his family have shaken him to his core and Kingston’s life isn’t quite as put together as everyone would like to believe.
These two. My goodness, I loved both of these characters, and as a couple—well, they couldn’t be more perfect. While they might seem like total opposites, they actually have so much in common, with Kingston being the yin to Queenie’s yang. He’s the soothing balm that calms her chaos and encourages her to believe in herself.
I don’t think you could ask for a more perfect book boyfriend than Kingston. He’s so kind and gentle while being a dirty-talking alpha in the bedroom. Queenie is a strong heroine who can hold her own, but she draws Kingston out of his regimented shell in a way that you don’t always see in romance books. Seeing them both let down their guard little by little is probably the most rewarding thing about this book.
A Secret for a Secret is an amazing addition to this series, but I love them all since they are each so different from one another. If you’re a fan of hockey romances, be sure to add this to your list. It’s not to be missed!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Purchase: Amazon US
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
Hockey romances and Helena Hunting go together like pineapple and olives on pizza (hint: it’s a good thing and if you haven’t read A Favor for a Favor, you need to do that ASAP!). She infuses humor and heart into all of her books, but I have a huge soft spot for the hockey players. A Secret for a Secret is a friends-to-lovers sports romance that has a bit of the forbidden, but the best part is the characters with all of their glorious quirks.
Abandoned by her mother at a young age and raised by a single dad, Queenie can’t quite seem to get her life together. She’s is struggling to make it on her own, making mistake after mistake while also trying to be independent and not a burden for her father. Bad relationships, dropping out of college, and the inability to hold a long-term job seem to be the constant in Queenie’s life.
Kingston is the straightest arrow the hockey team has ever seen. Khakis, polos, driving under the speed limit, and committed relationships define his existence. Some startling revelations from his family have shaken him to his core and Kingston’s life isn’t quite as put together as everyone would like to believe.
These two. My goodness, I loved both of these characters, and as a couple—well, they couldn’t be more perfect. While they might seem like total opposites, they actually have so much in common, with Kingston being the yin to Queenie’s yang. He’s the soothing balm that calms her chaos and encourages her to believe in herself.
I don’t think you could ask for a more perfect book boyfriend than Kingston. He’s so kind and gentle while being a dirty-talking alpha in the bedroom. Queenie is a strong heroine who can hold her own, but she draws Kingston out of his regimented shell in a way that you don’t always see in romance books. Seeing them both let down their guard little by little is probably the most rewarding thing about this book.
A Secret for a Secret is an amazing addition to this series, but I love them all since they are each so different from one another. If you’re a fan of hockey romances, be sure to add this to your list. It’s not to be missed!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Purchase: Amazon US
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
August 10, 2020
3 Boy Scout stars
It's_not_hoarding_if_it's_books Ig page
This was very cute, nauseatingly cute and sweet and King is definitely not the type of jock I ve read about until now. Did I liked him? well yes and no. Yes he is polite and a gentlemen, but way to proper for my taste. The excessive apologizing for the "wet humping" and the intimate contact with Queenie was OTT . I mean, I get it, you don't usually do this, is not your style blah blah, but get a grip man!
Also, he is a 30 yo man, with lots of money and fame, a life sorted, but had no authority whatsoever.In fewer words, way to SOFT- yeah..I said it, King was a big softie.
Queenie ( gah! I just hate how this name sounds ) was ok, thought , I don't understand what is the problem in getting help from your parents, or getting a job with your dad. I think this matter was escalated way too much, when in reality this was barely a problem in her life. Now, I understand the need of independence she had, but is not shame is asking help and accepting it(especially from you dad) when you are in need.
Overall, I don't think this author is for me..she takes some everyday small problems that most of people might deal with, and transforms them into big nightmares to make a plot.
It's_not_hoarding_if_it's_books Ig page
This was very cute, nauseatingly cute and sweet and King is definitely not the type of jock I ve read about until now. Did I liked him? well yes and no. Yes he is polite and a gentlemen, but way to proper for my taste. The excessive apologizing for the "wet humping" and the intimate contact with Queenie was OTT . I mean, I get it, you don't usually do this, is not your style blah blah, but get a grip man!
Also, he is a 30 yo man, with lots of money and fame, a life sorted, but had no authority whatsoever.In fewer words, way to SOFT- yeah..I said it, King was a big softie.
Queenie ( gah! I just hate how this name sounds ) was ok, thought , I don't understand what is the problem in getting help from your parents, or getting a job with your dad. I think this matter was escalated way too much, when in reality this was barely a problem in her life. Now, I understand the need of independence she had, but is not shame is asking help and accepting it(especially from you dad) when you are in need.
Overall, I don't think this author is for me..she takes some everyday small problems that most of people might deal with, and transforms them into big nightmares to make a plot.
May 12, 2020
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR/ Montlake Romance)
Ryan Kingston grew up in Tennessee, and has always been polite, respectful, and big on manners and morals. Hockey is his passion, and he’s lucky to be living his dream playing professionally. He’s a goalie for an NHL team in Seattle, and is the team’s levelheaded golden boy with the wholesome image. He’s a rule follower who always does the right thing. He rarely drinks alcohol, and doesn’t do one night stands. Then he finds out his life has been one big lie after another. He acts a little out of character, and shares an unforgettable evening with a gorgeous stranger by the name of Queenie. She was his opposite in every way, and the next day she’s gone. He has no way to contact her, and thinks he won’t see her again. Six weeks later she turns up at a team meeting, and he learns she’s his general manager’s daughter.
Queenie Masterson is a feisty, reckless, impulsive 24 yr. old woman that some may say is a handful. Lately everything’s a mess, and she’s trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She’s been let down and disappointed a lot, and the only person she can truly count on is her dad. She’s moved back to Seattle to be closer to him, and while there unexpectedly meets a guy that she has insane chemistry with. He seems like a genuinely good guy, but she’s not in a place where she can handle complications, so she can only commit to one night. Then their paths cross again and that crazy attraction is still there. She hasn’t forgotten about him, and realizes she wants this beautiful man, but he’s off limits because of his connection to her father. Soon he becomes too much of a temptation to resist, and they both grow tired of fighting the pull between them. He’s calming, and she’s chaos, but they just work. She makes him lose control, but he fully embraces her wild, passionate soul. She’s turned his world upside down, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. Will he eventually work his way into her heart, or will secrets threaten to destroy them?
-How the hell am I going to see this guy every single day and not think about all the amazing things he did to my body?
-The way he wants me is the same way I want him.
A Secret For A Secret (All In, #3) by Helena Hunting is a sexy, forbidden, sports romance that’s flirty, fun, and full of emotion. Kingston is dreamy, swoony perfection! This milk drinking, khaki-wearing Boy Scout completely stole my heart!!! 💜💜💜
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2X3nFDt
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR/ Montlake Romance)
Ryan Kingston grew up in Tennessee, and has always been polite, respectful, and big on manners and morals. Hockey is his passion, and he’s lucky to be living his dream playing professionally. He’s a goalie for an NHL team in Seattle, and is the team’s levelheaded golden boy with the wholesome image. He’s a rule follower who always does the right thing. He rarely drinks alcohol, and doesn’t do one night stands. Then he finds out his life has been one big lie after another. He acts a little out of character, and shares an unforgettable evening with a gorgeous stranger by the name of Queenie. She was his opposite in every way, and the next day she’s gone. He has no way to contact her, and thinks he won’t see her again. Six weeks later she turns up at a team meeting, and he learns she’s his general manager’s daughter.
Queenie Masterson is a feisty, reckless, impulsive 24 yr. old woman that some may say is a handful. Lately everything’s a mess, and she’s trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She’s been let down and disappointed a lot, and the only person she can truly count on is her dad. She’s moved back to Seattle to be closer to him, and while there unexpectedly meets a guy that she has insane chemistry with. He seems like a genuinely good guy, but she’s not in a place where she can handle complications, so she can only commit to one night. Then their paths cross again and that crazy attraction is still there. She hasn’t forgotten about him, and realizes she wants this beautiful man, but he’s off limits because of his connection to her father. Soon he becomes too much of a temptation to resist, and they both grow tired of fighting the pull between them. He’s calming, and she’s chaos, but they just work. She makes him lose control, but he fully embraces her wild, passionate soul. She’s turned his world upside down, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. Will he eventually work his way into her heart, or will secrets threaten to destroy them?
-How the hell am I going to see this guy every single day and not think about all the amazing things he did to my body?
-The way he wants me is the same way I want him.
A Secret For A Secret (All In, #3) by Helena Hunting is a sexy, forbidden, sports romance that’s flirty, fun, and full of emotion. Kingston is dreamy, swoony perfection! This milk drinking, khaki-wearing Boy Scout completely stole my heart!!! 💜💜💜
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2X3nFDt
May 14, 2025
This is my absolutely favorite book by Helena so far! This is the 3rd book in the All in series and it follows Queenie Materson and Ryan Kingston and it makes a great addition to the series. It was a little bit of a forbidden romance because Queenie is the hockey GM's daughter and now she is working for the team. This story has a great romance, lol moments, an opposites attract trope, a shy hero and secrets. King is one of the best hero's from Helena. He is swoony, caring, a good guy, shy and of course a hockey player! (I will take my own King now please lol) Queenie is a little bit of a hot mess, she is reckless and the complete opposite of King, but she is the queen to the king. Watching them fall for each other was a little emotional yet very sweet. Their romance was so incredibly adore and I was enjoying every minute of it. King was so sweet and the perfect guy to Queenie. As usual the side characters are always a reason why I love Helena's story and it's always fun to see the rest of the hockey players and their families.
*Thank you Helena Hunting and SocialButterfly Pr for this opportunity!*
*Thank you Helena Hunting and SocialButterfly Pr for this opportunity!*
August 18, 2020
This one was my EVERYTHING! The H (KING👑) in this story is the BEST OF THE BEST!
May 27, 2023
#1 A Lie for a Lie — 3 stars
#2 A Favor for a Favor — 3.5 stars (up)
#3 A Secret for a Secret — 3.5 stars (down)
no issues with the MCs, apart from their *cringe* names King & Queenie. 💀 the soft H was 10/10 boyfriend material. not just in books, but i guarantee hes someone you’d wanna introduce to your mama in real life too. 🤣 the romance was delightful. despite the fact that it had a little bit of forbidden aspect (the h is the daughter of the H’s NHL teams general manager), i liked that rather than hiding their relationship, the H was upfront with the dad from the beginning. see, hes perfect, and they made an ideal “opposites attract” couple. 🥰 on the other hand, while i could deal with the “outside drama” in book 3, in here it was simply too much. i could not with the Hs meddlesome family, and the thing with the h’s ex was unnecessary. 🤦♀️
(read as an audiobook)
#2 A Favor for a Favor — 3.5 stars (up)
#3 A Secret for a Secret — 3.5 stars (down)
no issues with the MCs, apart from their *cringe* names King & Queenie. 💀 the soft H was 10/10 boyfriend material. not just in books, but i guarantee hes someone you’d wanna introduce to your mama in real life too. 🤣 the romance was delightful. despite the fact that it had a little bit of forbidden aspect (the h is the daughter of the H’s NHL teams general manager), i liked that rather than hiding their relationship, the H was upfront with the dad from the beginning. see, hes perfect, and they made an ideal “opposites attract” couple. 🥰 on the other hand, while i could deal with the “outside drama” in book 3, in here it was simply too much. i could not with the Hs meddlesome family, and the thing with the h’s ex was unnecessary. 🤦♀️
(read as an audiobook)
May 12, 2020
Oh man, the good boy, rule follower sure took me by surprise in A Secret for a Secret and I loved every second!
Ryan’s followed the rules his whole life. Never making waves. Following the straight and narrow. Did it because he heard all about the disaster his sister and brother made of their lives—and didn’t want to make the same mistake.
Until he learned just about everything about his life was a lie. And on the night he learned the truth, he met a woman—Queenie—who’d been everything he never knew he needed and wanted. And she’d slipped out of his bed and his life without any way to contact her.
Until he sees her working as her dad’s personal assistant. Her dad, who just happens to be his boss. The general manager of his NHL team. A team with a strict non-fraternization policy.
But that’s not necessarily going to stop Ryan from going after the woman he cannot get out of his mind. Now he just needs to convince her he is worth the risk.
Man, I couldn’t read A Secret for a Secret fast enough to find out what was going to happen between Queenie and Ryan. From their adorably sexy meet-cute through the very last page, I rooted for them to find their happily ever after. And it wasn’t easy—especially when meddling family members get in the way. But, wow, was it worth it! A Secret for a Secret is my new favorite in this excellent All In series! ~ Missy, 5 stars
Ryan’s followed the rules his whole life. Never making waves. Following the straight and narrow. Did it because he heard all about the disaster his sister and brother made of their lives—and didn’t want to make the same mistake.
Until he learned just about everything about his life was a lie. And on the night he learned the truth, he met a woman—Queenie—who’d been everything he never knew he needed and wanted. And she’d slipped out of his bed and his life without any way to contact her.
Until he sees her working as her dad’s personal assistant. Her dad, who just happens to be his boss. The general manager of his NHL team. A team with a strict non-fraternization policy.
But that’s not necessarily going to stop Ryan from going after the woman he cannot get out of his mind. Now he just needs to convince her he is worth the risk.
Man, I couldn’t read A Secret for a Secret fast enough to find out what was going to happen between Queenie and Ryan. From their adorably sexy meet-cute through the very last page, I rooted for them to find their happily ever after. And it wasn’t easy—especially when meddling family members get in the way. But, wow, was it worth it! A Secret for a Secret is my new favorite in this excellent All In series! ~ Missy, 5 stars
May 17, 2020
3.5 Cosy Stars
A light and easy read, the main characters were enjoyable individually but especially together.
Kingston's family - oh boy they're an experience.
Acquired via KU.
A light and easy read, the main characters were enjoyable individually but especially together.
Kingston's family - oh boy they're an experience.
Acquired via KU.
October 9, 2020
This is third in a series and folks from the other books are relatively present here. Plus, we meet and get to know King fairly well in A Favor for a Favor so I definitely recommend reading the others first.
I finished this over a month ago and simply neglected to review it. Which makes me sad. King is as awesome as I suspected from the prior book, but I liked even better that we see some of the flaws at the heart of his careful deliberation. I liked Queenie, too, but details have faded. I even liked them as a match for each other because they were a good balancing influence.
I remember planning on a high three star rating that I'd round to four. I think a lot of that has to do with the stupid plot with Queenie's ex and that the names feel manipulated so you'd get King and Queenie. So there you go.
A note about Steamy: Yeah, I forget this, too. Middle of my steam tolerance. Ish. Probably.
I finished this over a month ago and simply neglected to review it. Which makes me sad. King is as awesome as I suspected from the prior book, but I liked even better that we see some of the flaws at the heart of his careful deliberation. I liked Queenie, too, but details have faded. I even liked them as a match for each other because they were a good balancing influence.
I remember planning on a high three star rating that I'd round to four. I think a lot of that has to do with the stupid plot with Queenie's ex and that the names feel manipulated so you'd get King and Queenie. So there you go.
A note about Steamy: Yeah, I forget this, too. Middle of my steam tolerance. Ish. Probably.
April 6, 2020
Helena has entrenched herself pretty firmly in the Rom-com genre. Her PUCKED series just keeps on giving, the characters delighting us whenever they make an impromptu appearance, Esp Violet.
Then she suddenly surprises you with a heartfelt story like this one. she can extract tears from your eyes as adeptly as he can make you spit out your drink with sudden bursts of laughter
"Thank Baby Jesus riding a freaking Unicorn"
Earlier two books - A Lie for a Lie and A Favor for a Favor had a lighter vein in them. This one does too, but it's more than a few laughs. It's full of Changes and Challenges. All the characters go through it and everyone's reactions to them is most fascinating to watch.
Hanna's life changed when she was 18, which sets off a chain reaction of upheavals that upends lives of Kingston & his mom, and then his brother.
On the other end, Jake's life changes at 20, which brings a major turbulence in Queenie's life, while going through some heart breaking twist in her life too
All are shaken up, all try their best to hang on to their loved ones, nobody wants to hurt anybody....and therein lies the problem!!
They hide secrets" which ultimately dry up to become skeletons in their closets
Its an eye-opening story, with lots of laughs and funny situations thrown in, but don't take your eyes off the central theme of trust.
Trust Broken & Restored.
"I feel like I’ve finally found my person. The one who won’t try to tame my chaos but will let me live in it and help me balance my impulsiveness with stability. He’s yin and I’m yang. He’s sugar and I’m salt."
I did laugh a lot, esp strawberry scene, but I was glassy eyed too.
Every human being makes mistake, doesn't mean they're a mess, just that they're in a messy situation.
Kingston is the poster child of what a Golden Good boy should be.
A 70 point safe driver, a teetotaller, considerate, polite, punctual and respectful.
"Such a pretty boy. So nicely dressed, so polite. So very, very respectful. But good God, get that man’s clothes off and get him into a bed, and it’s a whole different story."
Falls for an impulsive, A tad confused Queenie and it's like the opposite poles just click in place.
Their love is obviously lust and passion but it's their connection anchored by Kingston which gives much needed acceptance and stability in her life that is most adorable.
"She’s my raging rapids, and I’m her calm lake at dawn. We’re good. Perfect."
It's a heartwarming tale of selfless love explored in depth by Helena, surprising and heart melting at every turn.
This one is the best of the series yet, and there's a fantastic, shy surprise in this book that just made me all gooey with love and adoration
5 stars for Strawberries & Lavender
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Then she suddenly surprises you with a heartfelt story like this one. she can extract tears from your eyes as adeptly as he can make you spit out your drink with sudden bursts of laughter
"Thank Baby Jesus riding a freaking Unicorn"
Earlier two books - A Lie for a Lie and A Favor for a Favor had a lighter vein in them. This one does too, but it's more than a few laughs. It's full of Changes and Challenges. All the characters go through it and everyone's reactions to them is most fascinating to watch.
Hanna's life changed when she was 18, which sets off a chain reaction of upheavals that upends lives of Kingston & his mom, and then his brother.
On the other end, Jake's life changes at 20, which brings a major turbulence in Queenie's life, while going through some heart breaking twist in her life too
All are shaken up, all try their best to hang on to their loved ones, nobody wants to hurt anybody....and therein lies the problem!!
They hide secrets" which ultimately dry up to become skeletons in their closets
Its an eye-opening story, with lots of laughs and funny situations thrown in, but don't take your eyes off the central theme of trust.
Trust Broken & Restored.
"I feel like I’ve finally found my person. The one who won’t try to tame my chaos but will let me live in it and help me balance my impulsiveness with stability. He’s yin and I’m yang. He’s sugar and I’m salt."
I did laugh a lot, esp strawberry scene, but I was glassy eyed too.
Every human being makes mistake, doesn't mean they're a mess, just that they're in a messy situation.
Kingston is the poster child of what a Golden Good boy should be.
A 70 point safe driver, a teetotaller, considerate, polite, punctual and respectful.
"Such a pretty boy. So nicely dressed, so polite. So very, very respectful. But good God, get that man’s clothes off and get him into a bed, and it’s a whole different story."
Falls for an impulsive, A tad confused Queenie and it's like the opposite poles just click in place.
Their love is obviously lust and passion but it's their connection anchored by Kingston which gives much needed acceptance and stability in her life that is most adorable.
"She’s my raging rapids, and I’m her calm lake at dawn. We’re good. Perfect."
It's a heartwarming tale of selfless love explored in depth by Helena, surprising and heart melting at every turn.
This one is the best of the series yet, and there's a fantastic, shy surprise in this book that just made me all gooey with love and adoration
5 stars for Strawberries & Lavender
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June 15, 2020
➵ Hero: 5. Just as the blurb says, Ryan Kingstone is a Boy Scout, a rule follower. He doesn’t swear. His drink of choice is milk. He’s also incredibly patient, tender, caring, thoughtful, always put together and utterly perfect. He’s also an NHL star.
➵ Heroine: 5. Queenie is his complete opposite. She’s wild and spontaneous with a giant secret and the Seattle’s NHL’s general manager’s daughter but knows she’s found her soulmate in King.
➵ Sexiness: 5. YES! It started then they did shots and ended up naked in bed and after King asked for her father’s permission, they continued the sexy times because their chemistry connection was off the charts even when on paper it didn’t add up.
➵ Feels: 5. I smiled, I blushed and fanned myself and I definitely swooned and had huge smile at the end of the book.
➵ Plot/Pace: 5. I loved falling in love along with these two characters. Their story was cute, fun, touching and unputdownable.
➵ Facts A Secret for A Secret is book #3 in the All In series by Helena Hunting. This is standalone hockey, slow burn romance, told from both points of view, with a happy ending.
➵ Overall rating: 5
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/30I7Vc8
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"He's the calm to my storm.
My still lake at dawn.
My king..."
➵ Heroine: 5. Queenie is his complete opposite. She’s wild and spontaneous with a giant secret and the Seattle’s NHL’s general manager’s daughter but knows she’s found her soulmate in King.
"She's a tornado, and half the time I don't know what to do with her, but still want to get caught up in her vortex..."
➵ Sexiness: 5. YES! It started then they did shots and ended up naked in bed and after King asked for her father’s permission, they continued the sexy times because their chemistry connection was off the charts even when on paper it didn’t add up.
“Give us a chance to get through this together, Queenie. Let me catch you when you fall. Let me be your safe place to land.”
➵ Feels: 5. I smiled, I blushed and fanned myself and I definitely swooned and had huge smile at the end of the book.
➵ Plot/Pace: 5. I loved falling in love along with these two characters. Their story was cute, fun, touching and unputdownable.
➵ Facts A Secret for A Secret is book #3 in the All In series by Helena Hunting. This is standalone hockey, slow burn romance, told from both points of view, with a happy ending.
➵ Overall rating: 5
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/30I7Vc8
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
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