Offside with #55

Let's start by saying that while this is the last book in a series, this is the first one I've read. So, I can with 1000% confidence tell you it can definitely be read as a standalone. I had so much fun reading this book. It was fun, it was fast, it definitely got heavy in parts, but I found it to all be super well balanced.

When we meet Kane and Jana in this book, it is established right away that while they've had a friends with benefits kind of deal, this is now over. At the beginning of the book, Kane is given a coaching position in the team he's been playing for, while Jana's dad hands her the reins of the team. They are now in a owner/coach position and Jana obviously doesn't want to mess with the lines.

Now, after they end their benefits situation, things do get a bit rough for their relationship. They don't really know how to handle each other, their feelings and their new positions at the same time. They definitely butt heads quite a bit for a while there. Which was fun, but, I gotta be honest and say that if it lasted much longer, it would have definitely annoyed me.

I love that they both see each other so well. They know who the other one is and neither tries to change the other. They both have their set beliefs on marriage and family and neither is trying to tell the other that what they want is wrong. There is a snag at the end there, where they fail to properly communicate, so if you're not a fan of the third act breakup, beware. But, I personally enjoyed that it wasn't dragged out and they were able to communicate and solve their issues together.

I just had a great time listening to this book. It's a super quick read and you won't want to put it down, I was obsessed with the narration.

Kane and Jana’s friends with benefits relationship kept me invested in what would happen next with them. I liked how strong, steady, dependable and honest Kane was! He took care of everyone that was important to him and openly expressed his feelings without coercion or feeling as if he’d lose his manliness. Jana was also impressive. Her ambitious nature, drive to succeed, caring, compassionate spirit and competitiveness made her a force to be reckoned with. Together, Kane and Jana are unstoppable! Joe Arden and Melissa Moran brought the story to life with their fantastic narration! Overall I really enjoyed this story!!

I can't believe the end of the hockey hotties is here. I don't want to see them go but I really wanted this story! We have been building up to Offside With #55 for so long and I loved Kane and Jana's story! I went in expecting their love and hate and push and pull and while this book did have that it also had so much more. They both were beginners at coaching a sports team and owning one and navigating their "secret" relationship and all that that includes. So much on both their plates and I loved learning all that went on behind the scenes of the other books. This was a great end and I definitely recommend this entire series! I was also lucky enough to read through this book on audio and Joe Arden and Melissa Moran were perfection as Kane & Jana!