I enjoyed this book better than the other book which the hero was absolutely awful. The way they met was super cute. It was a slow burn but then it was really spicy.

Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review, as always all words are my own.

Stay by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen

“I’m ridiculously attracted to you, Hottie. I figured I should be up front about that.”
“Shut up and kiss me again, Snipes.”

Girl boss Hailey owns her own business, Fetch, which is similar to TaskRabbit — her favorite client just so happens to be her super sexy hockey player crush. When he requests she takes care of one of his tasks personally, he comes to the realization that he has been interested in her this whole time too!

If you like:
Sports Romance
Single Parent
Dual POV
Friends to Lovers

Pick this one up!

I definitely liked this one more than the first one — it was just more up my alley. The main characters definitely had their own struggles but they were more mature than the first book main characters. I loved seeing both their relationship with his kids and her relationship with the WAGS. They also had some pretty serious chemistry 🔥

#arc #advancedreaderscopy #stay #ellekennedy #sarinabowen #wags #bookreview #bookreviewer #bookrecs #booklover

I loved how Matt and Haliey met. It was unusual in the best way. Their relationship was a bit of a slow burn. Neither one ready to take that big step and move forward right away, but it was completely believable and real. I love a good slow burn romance. I loved the kids, the dog, really I loved most everything about this book. It was great to get to catch up with Blake and Jess, and of course my favorite hockey couple- Wes and Jamie!

Hailey and her ex-husband run a company called Fetch, an on demand personal assistant service. For months, she’d been helping out a client she suspects is her favorite professional hockey player.

Matt’s out of town a lot for hockey and started used Fetch to furnish his apartment after his divorce. When he’s unimpressed with his dog walker and needs a new one asap, Hailey steps in to take over. This takes their messaging to the next level once he sees her on his security camera and discovers she's a hockey fan.

If you’re looking for a hockey romance, give this one a read. It’s cute, spicy, and Matt’s teammates are fun. Overall, this was a quick read and enjoyed.

This book was nearly perfect, I loved Hailey and Matt. This story is a perfect fit for readers who are looking for a lighthearted sports romcom. Tropes also include hockey, single parent, and second chances at love. I can’t wait to read more from this duo of authors. 4.5 stars!

I have already purchased both Stay and Good Boy for my library's digital collection. Elle Kennedy is a popular author and these books are sure to circulate well. I look forward to reading more books by her in the future.

Hailey has been divorced for 18 months after her husband, also the only boyfriend she has ever had, said that they were better friends than spouses. She and her ex are still friends and they are partners in a business called Fetch where they will get whatever their clients need whenever they need it and will deliver it to them which is how she met Matt.

Matt is a professional hockey player and divorced father to twin girls. His marriage broke up because of his schedule and it has led him to believe that because of that he is not meant for a relationship but who could resist this sexy sweet man?

When the dogwalker that Hailey sent to Matt’s apartment shows through security footage that he is more interested in his house than his dog he calls Hailey to assist as he is out of town. Hailey takes it upon herself to personally look after his dog and Matt is intrigued and attracted to his dog walker.

A relationship ensues but they must both overcome the baggage of their pasts and it begins with Matt showing Hailey her sexy side and Hailey showing Matt that he is relationship material. I loved both these characters as Hailey is feisty and Matt is the perfect boyfriend. The banter between them is humorous, especially their texts, or should be say sexts, and their chemistry is off the charts.

Thank you to Netgalley and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books | Bloom Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Amazing collab between Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen on writing this fun hockey romance. I love a good hockey romance and have read many by Elle Kennedy so I knew I would like this. This was fun and steamy. I didn't realize that it was the 2nd book in the series but had no problem following along so it can be read as a stand alone.

Recommended for anyone who likes hockey, spice, and drama.

Stay by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen is the second book in the WAGs Series. This is Hailey and Matt‘s story.
 
Hailey founded a company with her ex-husband and they’re very successful with it. Their company Fetch provides virtual assistance, and this can also be done anonymously and discreetly and that’s why some famous people also use it. Hailey is a ray of sunshine and so kind and loving and she isn’t really looking for love after her last relationship failed.
 
Matt is a hockey player and while his career is on a high, his private life is on a low. He is a single dad to two little girls and a dog dad and must arrange everything with his ex who is rather problematic. He is doing everything to provide the best for his girls and that was so sweet. He uses the service of Fetch often and starts messaging them frequently and he wouldn’t expect to ever meet his Fetcher person.
 
I absolutely adored this story that has so much heart and humor. I liked how it all started with texting and errands and slowly turned into so much more. Hailey and Matt both deface to be loved wholeheartedly and they become each other‘s person. I also loved all the scenes with Matt‘s dog and daughters and this story is one that puts a smile on your face and makes you happy.
 
Overall, I adored this book and highly recommend it. 5 stars.
 
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for a review.)

Stay
By Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen

Love me some hockey romance. This was a reread which I normally don't do. But I realized I hadn't reviewed it originally. If you appreciate some girl boss energy, messy exes, adorable dogs and hot hockey guy this book is for you. It's a unique meet cute/ super fan that will pull you in.

If you are looking for a positive, steamy and fun romance then Stay by co-authors Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen will absolutely fit the bill. This is book two in the WAGs series though it stands alone quite well. I love the concept of this series with admirable characters, cute dogs, professional sports, spicy intimacy and just a bit of drama. A respite from the stress of the day. I read a few chapters while getting a pedicure - pure indulgence.

This story captivated me with its exploration of second chances and the magic of slow-burning love. From the start, I was drawn into a world where dreams intertwined with reality, rooting for the characters as they navigated their pasts and moved towards each other.

The relationships felt incredibly realistic and tender, and the gradual development allowed me to savor every moment. I was enchanted by how the characters dreamed about each other before even meeting, as if fate was nudging them together from the beginning.

The chemistry was palpable, blending steaminess with genuine emotion. Their longing and vulnerability made each interaction feel significant, highlighting how love often hinges on timing and personal growth. The way these themes were explored added depth to the story.

This was a beautifully told journey of self-discovery and love. I found myself immersed in the characters’ lives, feeling their connection deeply. For anyone who appreciates a tale that’s both realistic and tender, this hickey era is definitely worth experiencing.

Stay by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Brown is a heartfelt and steamy romance that beautifully explores the complexities of love and vulnerability. The chemistry between the protagonists is electric, making their journey both captivating and relatable. Kennedy and Brown skillfully blend humor with poignant moments, creating a perfect balance that keeps readers engaged. The rich character development adds depth to the story, making you root for their happy ending. It's a charming read that lingers in your mind long after you've turned the last page!

I read Stay in one sitting because I couldn't put it down! I love the WAGs series by Ellen Kennedy and Sarina Bowen.

This one focuses on Hailey and Matt: he's a hockey superstar and she owns a virtual assistant service that he uses.. Online flirting turns to more and the eventual steam is excellent.

There's some cameos from previous couples in the series which I always love; it's like getting a peek into their happily ever afters.

Highly recommend!

Stay by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen, book two in the WAGs series, is an enjoyable story with the perfect blend of sweet and sizzling, with little angst/drama. Hailey co-owns a company called Fetch with her ex-husband. Fetch is a successful virtual person assistant app; catering quickly to the clients’ every need at any time or place. She’s been assisting one of her clients, Matt, who she believes to be a pro-hockey player; one of her favorites. After some shameless flirting through the Fetch app, Hailey finally comes face to face with her client, who turns out to be exactly who she thought. Matt is recently divorced and is a dad to twin girls. Hailey got divorced around the same time and the co-owner of Fetch happens to be her ex-husband. Matt’s ex-wife claimed she left him because of his career. Hailey never really dated, as she married her childhood best friend. Both of them have been out of practice and a bit clueless about dating. I love the way Matt adores his little princess and enjoyed the adorable and hilarious banter between these two. The chemistry is sizzling as they burn up the sheets. I adored Matt and Hailey.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

It’s gonna be an effort to go slow, but warm-ups are important.”

These two were adorable and I love that there wasn’t a huge roadblock or big dramatic third act breakup. The problems that were had, were very adult and normal for the situations they dealt with and I appreciate the realistic aspect of that. I would call this a medium burn, but it makes sense since they are both newly-ish out of divorces and aren’t ready to jump into the first thing that comes around.
I loved how Hailey integrated with Matt’s girls and I respected her interactions with Kara. She never let things get to her.

But Bailey, bro… weather girl? COMET WAS RIGHT THERE!

“In a minute, buddy. I’m busy here.”

⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️Random notes from my read: CAN BE CONSIDERED SPOILERY⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️




* Hailey. Ma’am. I’m going to need you to calm tf down. You’re literally inventing “bad signs”, in your head
* “Your coach” 🔥🔥🔥
* Hahahahaha O’Connor caught him TWICE
* Oh, poor matty-cakes
* It’s not a pantsuit if you’re wearing a skirt
* Move along Dentist Dan

Many thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC and allowing me to provide my honest review

I liked this book much better than the first one in this series. I loved the relationship between Hailey and Matt. I couldn't stand how the male lead in the first book spoke and I felt like this book was much more natural and realistic. I loved seeing their relationship blossom and I enjoyed reading how both characters were flawed. While this is the second book in the series, I don't think you need to read the first one to understand this one. They are pretty much standalone novels.

Hailey runs Fetch, Inc. with her ex-husband. She has one client that she wants to know more about but they have a policy where clients can remain confidential, so she doesn’t pry into his personal business. He has different ideas! When he decides he is intrigued by her and wants to meet her, he concocts a plan. Will sparks fly?

This is a feel-good love story about two people that belong together. Hailey loves hockey. Matt plays hockey. Hailey works with her ex-husband. Matt struggles to balance his relationship with his daughters while navigating the rough waters with his ex-wife. They each have good reasons to be cautious about starting a relationship, but the pull of attraction is too much to ignore. As they get to know each other they realize that they have a lot in common. I like that the author showed each of them having to deal with learning things about their ex-spouses and how they dealt with it. Is there a bad guy? Sort of but the individual that I would consider the true bad guy gets dealt with fairly easily. That part of the story is more about showing how ex-spouses can work together than any character being in danger.

This is a contemporary hockey romance with some comedy elements. It takes place in Toronto. If you are looking for a lighthearted love story with some hockey, give this a try. It can be read as a standalone but if you read the first book in the series you will have opinions about Matt going into this story. I will definitely read more from these authors in the future.

4.5 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

She has no idea how much this means to me. I’ve spent the last year and chance believing myself unfit to be anyone’s partner. And maybe it’s true. But by spending her day with me – and her night – Hailey lets me believe I’m not a lost cause, that my messy life is worth sharing.

Stay is the second novel in the adult sport romance series, WAGs, which are a series of interconnected standalone. In this novel we follow Hailey and Matt. Hailey has a sneaking suspicion that her client at her anonymous personal assistance company she runs with her ex-husband might actually be her hockey crush. Still working through her feelings about her divorce she decides to flirt a little...she never expects her client would offer her hockey tickets to draw her out.

Matt is still reeling from his divorce. Tension is high between him and his ex wife and he isn't getting nearly as much time with his kids as he wants. Yet the one thing helping is chatting with HTE, his virtual personal assistant. He pulls the trigger to draw her out...but what happens when the anonymity falls? Will they be able to find a path forward or will it all fall apart?

This book was a delight.

The dynamic, the banter, the ease of the romance had me hook line and sinker!

Hailey is a woman out to build a name for herself. She is proud of what she has created alongside her ex-husband and I loved seeing a fairly amicable relationship between them. He was her friend for so long and while they may be tense at times, I liked seeing that support. Add in her ability to adapt so quickly and her acceptance she was a character who was open and able to really find common ground.

Matt is a sweetheart. He really just wants to do right by his family and he holds a lot of guilt because of his work and failed marriage. He is a good dad, a romantic guy, and smooth. I really appreciated his patience with Hailey as he took his time to get to know her and give her the space she needs while also making his feelings known. He does martyr himself a little at one point but he does have some healing to do.

This book does contain spice. I would say 2.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. I would place this as a medium burn as the characters take their time to find their rhythm with a fun date, make out sessions, and some cock blocking but when they decide to go all in they go for it! There is a bit of a risk to being caught, some playing with positions, and a whole lot of passion. It is explicit and detailed and I felt it was such fun for these characters. It fits their vibe so well to see their connection and desire.

“Fuck, Hailey. It’s going to be an effort to go slow…But warm-ups are important.”

The story itself is effortless to dive into. You have Hailey trying to deal with anxiety around her company and Matt trying to find a balance of work and life. I loved the casualness of the dating and fun. I especially loved the mystery around the one PA client with some VERY interesting requests. There was levity to the story but also insecurities explored as both characters are a bit bruised from their past relationships. I felt the WAGs came in clutch at the climax and really provided the companionship needed. The ending was incredibly sweet and the epilogue was the cherry on top! I left this book smiling and eager to go and pick up the book !

Thank you so much to Bloom and Netgalley for this review copy!

Actual rating 3.5 stars

Overall I enjoyed this but the story and the relationship between Hailey and Matt felt a little rushed. Thankfully not insta-love but just rushed - the characters lacked the same depth that I have seem from other books in this series/universe. It was nice to have cameos from Blake and Jess, Wes and Jamie and Blake's mum (she might even me my favourite character in all the books!).

I'd still recommend reading this and am hoping that there will be more books in this series.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bloom Books for the eARC. My opinions are just that...mine :)