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Meant For #2
Meant for Her
Christopher
I came from the biggest hockey family in the NHL.
Records were set by my grandfather, my father, and now my brother.
I was taught to love the game, but more than that, I learned early the men you play with are your family.
You get on the ice every night and protect them, celebrate the wins, and pick each other up when you fall.
So when we lost Benji, I stepped in to help his wife and kids, but this pull I feel when it comes to them is something more than I can even understand.
Dakota
My life was perfect, until it wasn't.
Gone was the husband I thought I knew and in his place was a stranger.
I saw him change before my eyes.
Then he was gone, leaving me and our girls alone.
I wanted nothing to do with anyone or anything that took him away from me.
But no matter how many times I've told his best friend I don't need help.
He's here doing things for us, and the worst part is, I want him to.
I came from the biggest hockey family in the NHL.
Records were set by my grandfather, my father, and now my brother.
I was taught to love the game, but more than that, I learned early the men you play with are your family.
You get on the ice every night and protect them, celebrate the wins, and pick each other up when you fall.
So when we lost Benji, I stepped in to help his wife and kids, but this pull I feel when it comes to them is something more than I can even understand.
Dakota
My life was perfect, until it wasn't.
Gone was the husband I thought I knew and in his place was a stranger.
I saw him change before my eyes.
Then he was gone, leaving me and our girls alone.
I wanted nothing to do with anyone or anything that took him away from me.
But no matter how many times I've told his best friend I don't need help.
He's here doing things for us, and the worst part is, I want him to.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2024
About the author
Natasha Madison
81 books7,381 followersWhen Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Selling Author's nose isn't buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she's in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It's a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn't listen to her...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 738 reviews
May 9, 2024
Let me get this out of the way first - FU Benji.
Okay, now that I have gotten that off my chest...
I can't remember the last time I flew through a book like I did this one. Omg SO good. Bravo Natasha on a truly fantastic book with an even better couple. Christopher and Dakota have a genuine and beautiful relationship that will survive through any storm.
"I can't see the future, but if it's going to be anything like right now, right here at this moment, I know there will be no one else after you, which means there will be no one else for you."
❤️Hockey romance
❤️Best friend's widow
❤️Love after loss
❤️Single mom
❤️So much love
After losing her husband, Dakota is on a journey to recovering the pieces of herself that her husband slowly stole from her over the years. She is determined to be the best mom that she can be and give her children the best lives that she can.
Christopher was Dakota's husbands best friend and after he passes, he continually tries to be there for all three of them (Dakota and her daughters). He wants to be the safe place for them in this world that they are facing.
Christopher gives all three of them the love they need and absolutely deserve. And when that love turns into something more for Chris and Dakota, they navigate it in a way that is so real and genuine.
Their journey is not easy. Their journey is not simple. But their journey brings them that once in a lifetime, soulmate type of love that we all wish to have in our lives.
I finished this book almost 48 hours ago and I am still so irrotationally and passionately angry at a certain character. They will go down as one of the most hated characters that I have ever read.
I can't wait to see what Natasha gives us next in the series!
Okay, now that I have gotten that off my chest...
I can't remember the last time I flew through a book like I did this one. Omg SO good. Bravo Natasha on a truly fantastic book with an even better couple. Christopher and Dakota have a genuine and beautiful relationship that will survive through any storm.
"I can't see the future, but if it's going to be anything like right now, right here at this moment, I know there will be no one else after you, which means there will be no one else for you."
❤️Hockey romance
❤️Best friend's widow
❤️Love after loss
❤️Single mom
❤️So much love
After losing her husband, Dakota is on a journey to recovering the pieces of herself that her husband slowly stole from her over the years. She is determined to be the best mom that she can be and give her children the best lives that she can.
Christopher was Dakota's husbands best friend and after he passes, he continually tries to be there for all three of them (Dakota and her daughters). He wants to be the safe place for them in this world that they are facing.
Christopher gives all three of them the love they need and absolutely deserve. And when that love turns into something more for Chris and Dakota, they navigate it in a way that is so real and genuine.
Their journey is not easy. Their journey is not simple. But their journey brings them that once in a lifetime, soulmate type of love that we all wish to have in our lives.
I finished this book almost 48 hours ago and I am still so irrotationally and passionately angry at a certain character. They will go down as one of the most hated characters that I have ever read.
I can't wait to see what Natasha gives us next in the series!
May 2, 2024
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Taboo; single mom
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥1/2
Ohhh good lordy, folks! This one will have you up in all your feels: rage, sadness, loss, hope, and all the warm fuzzies. A literal roller coaster of emotions. Dakota is set adrift after the death of her husband and the wake of having to raise her daughter's alone. What she went through was horrific. Christopher is her husband's best friend and attempts to step in to help her, but Dakota is not here for it. Their story goes from friends to hate (on her part) to friends to lovers and Natasha does a fantastic job of telling their journey seamlessly and believable way. Christopher is steady and stalwart and perfect for Dakota. Absolutely beautiful storytelling that left me with a huge smile on my face.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: Taboo; single mom
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥1/2
Ohhh good lordy, folks! This one will have you up in all your feels: rage, sadness, loss, hope, and all the warm fuzzies. A literal roller coaster of emotions. Dakota is set adrift after the death of her husband and the wake of having to raise her daughter's alone. What she went through was horrific. Christopher is her husband's best friend and attempts to step in to help her, but Dakota is not here for it. Their story goes from friends to hate (on her part) to friends to lovers and Natasha does a fantastic job of telling their journey seamlessly and believable way. Christopher is steady and stalwart and perfect for Dakota. Absolutely beautiful storytelling that left me with a huge smile on my face.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
May 5, 2024
3.5⭐
This had so much emotion in it & I really loved Christopher and how much he stepped up to be a father figure to Dakota's children.
While I really loved the emotion in the beginning, I felt like Christopher and Dakota's relationship was more lust than a true connection. With the length of the book being so short - I really wanted more heartfelt moments. I think the epilogue had the most heartfelt moments out of the entire book and I just wish there was more of that throughout the book. 🥹
Aside from that, I did enjoy this! Dakota is such a strong woman to go through what she went through!
- loss / grief
- single parent
- enemies to lovers
- sports romance
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This had so much emotion in it & I really loved Christopher and how much he stepped up to be a father figure to Dakota's children.
While I really loved the emotion in the beginning, I felt like Christopher and Dakota's relationship was more lust than a true connection. With the length of the book being so short - I really wanted more heartfelt moments. I think the epilogue had the most heartfelt moments out of the entire book and I just wish there was more of that throughout the book. 🥹
Aside from that, I did enjoy this! Dakota is such a strong woman to go through what she went through!
- loss / grief
- single parent
- enemies to lovers
- sports romance
🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 14, 2024
i know i said i was never going to read another one of her books ever again but this was actually pretty cute and adorable. i enjoyed them 🤭
May 6, 2024
4.5/5
This one was so emotional, sexy and heartfelt I just adored it. I was totally invested right from the start, talk about an emotional ride and that connection never waned for me once as I read this. It’s such a beautiful story of loss and love, moments of tragedy and then moments of pure love and affection. It really had me all over the place emotionally and I so enjoyed the journey. The author handled some delicate issues with grace and authenticity and the relationship between Dakota and Christopher was beautiful and sweet. Her sweet daughters added so much innocence and light and I’m just obsessed with this family. If you like single parent, taboo, and hockey romance this was excellent. The narrators, especially Savannah Peachwood as Dakota did such an amazing job at conveying the wide variety of emotions these two experience. Connor Crais as Christopher was also an amazing performance, SO good!
This one was so emotional, sexy and heartfelt I just adored it. I was totally invested right from the start, talk about an emotional ride and that connection never waned for me once as I read this. It’s such a beautiful story of loss and love, moments of tragedy and then moments of pure love and affection. It really had me all over the place emotionally and I so enjoyed the journey. The author handled some delicate issues with grace and authenticity and the relationship between Dakota and Christopher was beautiful and sweet. Her sweet daughters added so much innocence and light and I’m just obsessed with this family. If you like single parent, taboo, and hockey romance this was excellent. The narrators, especially Savannah Peachwood as Dakota did such an amazing job at conveying the wide variety of emotions these two experience. Connor Crais as Christopher was also an amazing performance, SO good!
June 24, 2024
This was so good.
I love how strong Dakota is. I love how kind and caring and considerate Christopher was. I loved the girls. They were so cute. I loved how there was a lot of focus with the kids. I love seeing Christopher with them and him and Dakota were so good together.
I’ll come back to this at some point and write a better review I promise.
Not gonna lie, though I was confused because there were a lot of characters in this that I didn’t know so sometimes it was hard to follow. But that’s my fault because I’m pretty sure I needed to read other books by this other before this one. They seem like they’re all connected through theCharacters. I loved how they were always there to support each other tho.
I love how strong Dakota is. I love how kind and caring and considerate Christopher was. I loved the girls. They were so cute. I loved how there was a lot of focus with the kids. I love seeing Christopher with them and him and Dakota were so good together.
I’ll come back to this at some point and write a better review I promise.
Not gonna lie, though I was confused because there were a lot of characters in this that I didn’t know so sometimes it was hard to follow. But that’s my fault because I’m pretty sure I needed to read other books by this other before this one. They seem like they’re all connected through theCharacters. I loved how they were always there to support each other tho.
May 7, 2024
*ARC ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5*
Don’t be fooled by the guy on the cover and his reenactment of “Charlie bit my finger”. The cover itself will haunt my nightmares, but the book itself is quite lovely.
This book is about grief, making tough decisions and following your heart.
A wife and her conflicting feelings about her husband’s death and his best friend and his conflicting feelings after finding out who his best friend truly was.
I agree with Koda when she calls Christopher perfect because THIS.MAN! He honestly ticked every single box and when I tell you I’d be on my knees in a HEARTBEAT.
This was a really lovely book and had some great aspects, along with some that I didn’t really connect with. All in all it was a solid 3.5⭐️ read.
Don’t be fooled by the guy on the cover and his reenactment of “Charlie bit my finger”. The cover itself will haunt my nightmares, but the book itself is quite lovely.
This book is about grief, making tough decisions and following your heart.
A wife and her conflicting feelings about her husband’s death and his best friend and his conflicting feelings after finding out who his best friend truly was.
I agree with Koda when she calls Christopher perfect because THIS.MAN! He honestly ticked every single box and when I tell you I’d be on my knees in a HEARTBEAT.
This was a really lovely book and had some great aspects, along with some that I didn’t really connect with. All in all it was a solid 3.5⭐️ read.
May 27, 2024
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐.95
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Trope - late best friend's wife, single widowed mom, grieve, friends to enemies to lovers, love after loss, slow burn, hockey romance, a second chance to love, emotional scars, great family dynamics, forbidden, he falls first, found family, steamy
TW- substance abuse, death from addiction, grief
Bonus chapter - 1
Christopher and Dakota were meant to find each other. After Dakota's husband and Christopher's best friend die from an overdose, they see each other during the grieving process. The initial relationship is rocky, as Koda needs a person to blame for the loss and she does it on the nearest person. Addiction is a sensitive topic, and I loved how the author handled it smoothly. Dakota blaming Chris for ignoring the signs made sense, she was grieving. However, I feel that burden was too much to add on a person who also lost a significant part of their life.
I loved how things between Koda and Chris fall back in place with time, and they grab their usual momentum as friends. Their relationship went from late best friend's wife, to hate, to friends to lovers and it was one the best gradual and natural transitions. The cute little exchange where he would go all golden retriever, along with the midnight conversations were the book's most fun part. Their first kiss was preceded by "fuck it" and I literally screamed at the top of my lungs in happiness. What a moment, I must say.
They both had inner battles over their new bond, nevertheless, it was beautiful to watch them make each other comfortable with the idea of them together. The relationship is gradual where they mess up but once shown the right path, they discuss it and move forward. Their chemistry was electric, and the spice hit well and the perfect time. I loved how even the sex scenes weren't rushed, they took their time to reach that stage and it added a lot of meaning to their relationship.
Cocky Christopher is the best, he was persistent yet never pushy. He was genuinely the sweetest guy with the most amazing Stone traits. He always respected Dakota's privacy and gave her space yet stayed a constant in their life with his gestures. You can see the way his dad and uncles deal with their better halves, from where Chris gets all these beautiful habits of loving people with his whole heart. I loved how his dad and his uncles were so supportive of him, and always guided him without a hint of judgment. The whole Stone family was adorable, and every member was exceptional. Everyone needs a big happy family like their's.
Christopher's bond with the kids was natural and smooth. Yeah, he was their father's best friend however their bond was beyond niece-uncle-like. Rain and Luna getting a dad figure was all I needed to heal my heart, those two girls were adorable and loving. Rain was mature for her age and she understood the importance of a man(her uncle) stepping up the dad's role was a big thing and she expressed it most beautifully. Luna was an adorable girl, who made every scene adorable by her presence.
Dakota was a strong and resilient character, I loved how she took matters into her own hands and didn't need a third party to assist her after the loss. She always looked after her daughters and tried to do things that were good for them. Her speaking the most dirty and wildest thoughts out loud has to be the best torture for Christopher and I couldn't stop giggling over his response. Their dirty talk was one of the best things to read, I was blushing.
Keely's character wasn't like a puck bunny, it was short and simple. She was sweet and understanding, and that surprised me.
The character development with constant therapy and counseling was something that stood out and explained the importance of grief and how one may have a different process than the other yet they all make a huge difference in the end. The last chapters were more heartfelt than the whole book, their chemistry grew, they talked things out and most of all they loved each other beyond words.
Dylan being on FaceTime when Chris and Dakota have family talk, with interventions was worth every minute and Istg I had to pause and take a breath. The family moments were wholesome, and you get a glimpse of all the previous characters of their family (who I just found out, have their individual books) and see how after years their love has grown. The bonus chapter was beautiful and hilarious. Justin advising his son under his breath to "say sorry" and Christopher following his command like a good boy was an underrated funny scene. I loved how his family was always involved in their moments to make it a million times better and sweeter. Stone family growing was the best end to Chris and Koda's story.
Loved everything, from the way the grief was expressed, to their family dynamic to their patched-up family.
Overall 4.95♾️/5. I wish we got more heartfelt chapters between Koda and Chris because something was missing.
(re-read to ensure, if it should've got a round off 5 star instead of 4 from me, and yeah it did. So here we go.)
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Trope - late best friend's wife, single widowed mom, grieve, friends to enemies to lovers, love after loss, slow burn, hockey romance, a second chance to love, emotional scars, great family dynamics, forbidden, he falls first, found family, steamy
TW- substance abuse, death from addiction, grief
Bonus chapter - 1
Christopher and Dakota were meant to find each other. After Dakota's husband and Christopher's best friend die from an overdose, they see each other during the grieving process. The initial relationship is rocky, as Koda needs a person to blame for the loss and she does it on the nearest person. Addiction is a sensitive topic, and I loved how the author handled it smoothly. Dakota blaming Chris for ignoring the signs made sense, she was grieving. However, I feel that burden was too much to add on a person who also lost a significant part of their life.
I loved how things between Koda and Chris fall back in place with time, and they grab their usual momentum as friends. Their relationship went from late best friend's wife, to hate, to friends to lovers and it was one the best gradual and natural transitions. The cute little exchange where he would go all golden retriever, along with the midnight conversations were the book's most fun part. Their first kiss was preceded by "fuck it" and I literally screamed at the top of my lungs in happiness. What a moment, I must say.
They both had inner battles over their new bond, nevertheless, it was beautiful to watch them make each other comfortable with the idea of them together. The relationship is gradual where they mess up but once shown the right path, they discuss it and move forward. Their chemistry was electric, and the spice hit well and the perfect time. I loved how even the sex scenes weren't rushed, they took their time to reach that stage and it added a lot of meaning to their relationship.
Cocky Christopher is the best, he was persistent yet never pushy. He was genuinely the sweetest guy with the most amazing Stone traits. He always respected Dakota's privacy and gave her space yet stayed a constant in their life with his gestures. You can see the way his dad and uncles deal with their better halves, from where Chris gets all these beautiful habits of loving people with his whole heart. I loved how his dad and his uncles were so supportive of him, and always guided him without a hint of judgment. The whole Stone family was adorable, and every member was exceptional. Everyone needs a big happy family like their's.
Christopher's bond with the kids was natural and smooth. Yeah, he was their father's best friend however their bond was beyond niece-uncle-like. Rain and Luna getting a dad figure was all I needed to heal my heart, those two girls were adorable and loving. Rain was mature for her age and she understood the importance of a man(her uncle) stepping up the dad's role was a big thing and she expressed it most beautifully. Luna was an adorable girl, who made every scene adorable by her presence.
Dakota was a strong and resilient character, I loved how she took matters into her own hands and didn't need a third party to assist her after the loss. She always looked after her daughters and tried to do things that were good for them. Her speaking the most dirty and wildest thoughts out loud has to be the best torture for Christopher and I couldn't stop giggling over his response. Their dirty talk was one of the best things to read, I was blushing.
Keely's character wasn't like a puck bunny, it was short and simple. She was sweet and understanding, and that surprised me.
The character development with constant therapy and counseling was something that stood out and explained the importance of grief and how one may have a different process than the other yet they all make a huge difference in the end. The last chapters were more heartfelt than the whole book, their chemistry grew, they talked things out and most of all they loved each other beyond words.
Dylan being on FaceTime when Chris and Dakota have family talk, with interventions was worth every minute and Istg I had to pause and take a breath. The family moments were wholesome, and you get a glimpse of all the previous characters of their family (who I just found out, have their individual books) and see how after years their love has grown. The bonus chapter was beautiful and hilarious. Justin advising his son under his breath to "say sorry" and Christopher following his command like a good boy was an underrated funny scene. I loved how his family was always involved in their moments to make it a million times better and sweeter. Stone family growing was the best end to Chris and Koda's story.
Loved everything, from the way the grief was expressed, to their family dynamic to their patched-up family.
Overall 4.95♾️/5. I wish we got more heartfelt chapters between Koda and Chris because something was missing.
(re-read to ensure, if it should've got a round off 5 star instead of 4 from me, and yeah it did. So here we go.)
May 1, 2024
I adored this story so much. Natasha did a beautiful job of honoring the emotion of a second chance at love without being heavy. Everything was natural and organic.
Dakota finds herself a widow after her husband dies. While keeping her life and her two daughter’s life together in the chaos, she is also balancing learning that her husband wasn’t the man she thought he was. Christopher is Dakota’s dead husband’s best friend. He makes it his mission to make sure she and the girls are taken care while battling the guilt of not knowing his friend was in trouble. As the two get past a very, relatably, shaky ground after the death, they realize there’s a spark. They push off that spark for months as they continue to grow and heal.
The transition from friends to lovers was so perfect here. The timing felt right, their characters felt ready, and it didn’t feel awkward or messy. I love the way Christopher loved Dakota and the girls. It takes on a new layer once he’s in a relationship with Dakota. The growth that Dakota goes through is so refreshing. Shes the definition of a strong female main character.
The family dynamics that Natasha is famous for shined here as it always does!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dakota finds herself a widow after her husband dies. While keeping her life and her two daughter’s life together in the chaos, she is also balancing learning that her husband wasn’t the man she thought he was. Christopher is Dakota’s dead husband’s best friend. He makes it his mission to make sure she and the girls are taken care while battling the guilt of not knowing his friend was in trouble. As the two get past a very, relatably, shaky ground after the death, they realize there’s a spark. They push off that spark for months as they continue to grow and heal.
The transition from friends to lovers was so perfect here. The timing felt right, their characters felt ready, and it didn’t feel awkward or messy. I love the way Christopher loved Dakota and the girls. It takes on a new layer once he’s in a relationship with Dakota. The growth that Dakota goes through is so refreshing. Shes the definition of a strong female main character.
The family dynamics that Natasha is famous for shined here as it always does!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2024
::sigh:: When I tell you that I absolutely go feral over Natasha's audios, I am not even being dramatic. I absolutely love Natasha's books in Audios. She always picks the perfect narrators and the stories are just perfection.
This is no different. I have been dying for Christophers story and this one? This one was just perfect for him. I loved every single second. Connor and Savannah really brought Christopher and Dakota to life!
If you are an audio girly, I highly suggest giving this one a listen.
This is no different. I have been dying for Christophers story and this one? This one was just perfect for him. I loved every single second. Connor and Savannah really brought Christopher and Dakota to life!
If you are an audio girly, I highly suggest giving this one a listen.
May 22, 2024
I’m always so pleased when the first book I read of an author is a five star!
This provided emotional sucker punches from the very beginning, wholesome moments with Koda’s kids and Christopher and all of the spicy goodness I’d want in a book! :)
Thank you so much for allowing me early access! Definitely need to read the other books in the series!
*updated review*
I truly believe there is no better feeling than reading the first book from an author you’ve not read from before and by 10% you’re sure you have a five star read on your hands.
My loves I am happy to report that this is what I felt from reading this hockey romance! Thank you so much @natashamauthor for reaching out and sending my an ARC of this baby! I fear I may need to start raiding your backlist oopsie!
So this is my first ever “arguably taboo” romance novel, with widow Koda being in a relationship with her late husband’s best friend and teammate. I won’t lie to you, I was a little nervous about reading it. However, once you read this yourselves (which I’d highly recommend) you’ll understand that we as the readers are not mad at all with this pairing!
I also realised why I love hockey romance books and is perhaps the reason why TikTok keeps trying to shove NHL and NHL WAG (wives and girlfriends) videos down my throat. The relationships you see formed with many of the players and their families is just so special and gives a great sense of found family, which I guess is something that I really yearn for.
Also Christopher with Koda’s children is just so utterly dreamy to me! Could not stop smiling, giggling and gushing!
Again thank you so much Natasha for sending me this ARC and for being so patient with me when I was sick with covid! Much love xoxo
Tropes:
🏒 enemies to lovers
🏒single Mumma
🏒he falls first
🏒second chance at love
🏒forbidden romance
🏒emotional scars
This provided emotional sucker punches from the very beginning, wholesome moments with Koda’s kids and Christopher and all of the spicy goodness I’d want in a book! :)
Thank you so much for allowing me early access! Definitely need to read the other books in the series!
*updated review*
I truly believe there is no better feeling than reading the first book from an author you’ve not read from before and by 10% you’re sure you have a five star read on your hands.
My loves I am happy to report that this is what I felt from reading this hockey romance! Thank you so much @natashamauthor for reaching out and sending my an ARC of this baby! I fear I may need to start raiding your backlist oopsie!
So this is my first ever “arguably taboo” romance novel, with widow Koda being in a relationship with her late husband’s best friend and teammate. I won’t lie to you, I was a little nervous about reading it. However, once you read this yourselves (which I’d highly recommend) you’ll understand that we as the readers are not mad at all with this pairing!
I also realised why I love hockey romance books and is perhaps the reason why TikTok keeps trying to shove NHL and NHL WAG (wives and girlfriends) videos down my throat. The relationships you see formed with many of the players and their families is just so special and gives a great sense of found family, which I guess is something that I really yearn for.
Also Christopher with Koda’s children is just so utterly dreamy to me! Could not stop smiling, giggling and gushing!
Again thank you so much Natasha for sending me this ARC and for being so patient with me when I was sick with covid! Much love xoxo
Tropes:
🏒 enemies to lovers
🏒single Mumma
🏒he falls first
🏒second chance at love
🏒forbidden romance
🏒emotional scars
May 10, 2024
“Christopher.” His name on my lips feels like I’ve been saying it my whole life.
“The minute you kissed me, it was like I forgot everything. My name, where I was, what I was doing. The only thing I wanted was to be closer to you.”
Ommggg you guys this book! It was so good I finished it less than a day! Natasha’s writing mixed with the story, had me turning pages faster than ever before. You guys are going to absolutely love this story and this couple!!
Koda just lost her husband and before he passed away, they were already going through problems, but he died and left her and their two girls and now she’s just trying to pick up the pieces. Christopher was his best friend. Teaamate and the girls “Uncle Chrissy” and loved him like a brother. He had no idea about his or their issues, but he’s also trying to pick up the pieces. At first Koda was so angry with the to do with anybody, but slowly these two started to form a bond. He stepped in to help the girls, and it is the sweetest part of the story. The little girls are so special and watching the four of them heal together, was absolutely everything.
It was so easy to sink into Natasha’s writing. This was my second book by her and I was so blown away by it. I also loved the sense of family through out the entire book as well. Oh and let me tell you about her steamy scenes! Ummm ma’am!! I told her their first time I almost exploded because the slow burn almost killed me! It was a reallllyyyy good burn though 😏 And when he said Baby 🥵 Good Gosh I loved this book and you will too! Prepare yourself for your next Book Boyfriend, the one and only, Christopher Stone. Meant for her is officially OUT NOW!! Run 🙌
“The minute you kissed me, it was like I forgot everything. My name, where I was, what I was doing. The only thing I wanted was to be closer to you.”
Ommggg you guys this book! It was so good I finished it less than a day! Natasha’s writing mixed with the story, had me turning pages faster than ever before. You guys are going to absolutely love this story and this couple!!
Koda just lost her husband and before he passed away, they were already going through problems, but he died and left her and their two girls and now she’s just trying to pick up the pieces. Christopher was his best friend. Teaamate and the girls “Uncle Chrissy” and loved him like a brother. He had no idea about his or their issues, but he’s also trying to pick up the pieces. At first Koda was so angry with the to do with anybody, but slowly these two started to form a bond. He stepped in to help the girls, and it is the sweetest part of the story. The little girls are so special and watching the four of them heal together, was absolutely everything.
It was so easy to sink into Natasha’s writing. This was my second book by her and I was so blown away by it. I also loved the sense of family through out the entire book as well. Oh and let me tell you about her steamy scenes! Ummm ma’am!! I told her their first time I almost exploded because the slow burn almost killed me! It was a reallllyyyy good burn though 😏 And when he said Baby 🥵 Good Gosh I loved this book and you will too! Prepare yourself for your next Book Boyfriend, the one and only, Christopher Stone. Meant for her is officially OUT NOW!! Run 🙌
May 14, 2024
This is book two in the Meant For series.
Dakota is now a single mom to two girls. Her husband is dead, and the perfect life she thought she had is gone. And sadly, it wasn't just his death. Before he died, he had changed from a loving husband and father to a stranger.
Christopher Stone comes from a legacy hockey family. He's very close to them and to his teammates. He noticed some changes in his teammate Benji but had no idea what was truly going on. So when Benji dies, Christopher wants to help Kota and her daughters.
Christopher had Kota in a box. Teammates wife, friend. Just helping out. But neither one expected the pull they would feel.
It's very complicated. Christopher was her husband's friend, and Kotas got two girls to think about. But honestly, I was on their side from the very beginning. Christopher really steps up, especially for Kotas daughters. The relationships they build and honestly already had. He's a family guy through and through. Swoon worthy.
Dakota is now a single mom to two girls. Her husband is dead, and the perfect life she thought she had is gone. And sadly, it wasn't just his death. Before he died, he had changed from a loving husband and father to a stranger.
Christopher Stone comes from a legacy hockey family. He's very close to them and to his teammates. He noticed some changes in his teammate Benji but had no idea what was truly going on. So when Benji dies, Christopher wants to help Kota and her daughters.
Christopher had Kota in a box. Teammates wife, friend. Just helping out. But neither one expected the pull they would feel.
It's very complicated. Christopher was her husband's friend, and Kotas got two girls to think about. But honestly, I was on their side from the very beginning. Christopher really steps up, especially for Kotas daughters. The relationships they build and honestly already had. He's a family guy through and through. Swoon worthy.
May 6, 2024
Meant for Her is a sports (hockey), best friend’s widow, single mom, slow burn romance! This is part of a series, but definitely reads as a standalone. And it is easily my new favorite by this author.
I loved the heart and emotional elements to this one! Dakota’s husband passes away when the story starts and we see the struggles she had with him prior to this, as well as learn more about it after he’s gone. She has her 2 daughters to care for and wants to just focus on them. Christopher was a teammate and friend to her late husband and has been a part of their life and continues to show up for her and her girls. Slowly they realize there is something there between them as well!
I liked seeing how much he wanted to be there for Dakota and also her daughters, he signs them up for hockey since they want to and goes to all of their practices. It was cute seeing them all together as a happy family, Dakota definitely deserved that! I really liked the caretaking in here and the audio was fantastic as well, narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Conor Crais.
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
I loved the heart and emotional elements to this one! Dakota’s husband passes away when the story starts and we see the struggles she had with him prior to this, as well as learn more about it after he’s gone. She has her 2 daughters to care for and wants to just focus on them. Christopher was a teammate and friend to her late husband and has been a part of their life and continues to show up for her and her girls. Slowly they realize there is something there between them as well!
I liked seeing how much he wanted to be there for Dakota and also her daughters, he signs them up for hockey since they want to and goes to all of their practices. It was cute seeing them all together as a happy family, Dakota definitely deserved that! I really liked the caretaking in here and the audio was fantastic as well, narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Conor Crais.
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
June 10, 2024
4.5⭐️
I love Christopher & Koda. I said it first. IYKYK. If you don’t, read this book. There are some heavy topics in this one, but I feel like they were handled really well. My favorite part was Papa Justin putting the smack down on Christopher. This family will always be one of my favorites.
I’m really excited for Zoey & Nash!
I love Christopher & Koda. I said it first. IYKYK. If you don’t, read this book. There are some heavy topics in this one, but I feel like they were handled really well. My favorite part was Papa Justin putting the smack down on Christopher. This family will always be one of my favorites.
I’m really excited for Zoey & Nash!
June 4, 2024
My first audiobook!!!
Big thank you to Natasha for this arc 🫶🏼
Emotional, touching, & 🥵
Things to know:
Single mom
Ex’s best friend
Emotions!!!!
Dual pov
Check tw 🫶🏼
Big thank you to Natasha for this arc 🫶🏼
Emotional, touching, & 🥵
Things to know:
Single mom
Ex’s best friend
Emotions!!!!
Dual pov
Check tw 🫶🏼
April 19, 2024
Christopher and Dakota are totally meant for each other. I loved their story so much!! Christopher was perfect and I loved how sweet and loving he was with Dakota and the girls.
The audio was fantastic!! I felt all the emotions and loved everything about it. Highly recommend listening to the audio.
Tropes:
🏒Hockey Romance
💋Enemies to Lovers
🏒Widow
💋Single Mom
🏒Forbidden Romance
💋He Falls First
🏒Hurt/Comfort
💋Second Chance at Love
🏒Emotional Scars
The audio was fantastic!! I felt all the emotions and loved everything about it. Highly recommend listening to the audio.
Tropes:
🏒Hockey Romance
💋Enemies to Lovers
🏒Widow
💋Single Mom
🏒Forbidden Romance
💋He Falls First
🏒Hurt/Comfort
💋Second Chance at Love
🏒Emotional Scars
May 10, 2024
“We didn’t find each other the way normal fairy tales are written … But I don’t give a shit because this is our story, and we get to write it.”
4 stars
This is the second book in the Meant For series, which forms part of the Natasha Madison hockey universe. The Stone/Grant/Horton families are deeply interwoven, but you can easily read the books as standalones as enough description is given to let you know who the key characters are in each story.
This is Christopher’s book. He is the son of Justin and Caroline (their story is This Is Forever, This Is, #4) and, like most of the men in the family, he’s a hockey player. His world is shaken when he learns that his best friend and teammate, Benji, has died suddenly, and he immediately leaves his big family holiday to return home to be there to support Benji’s wife, Dakota, and their two daughters.
Dakota thought was living her dream life, until her husband changed into somebody she didn’t recognise. Her heartbreak culminated in his tragic death by overdose on her couch, and now she’s left dealing with grief and anger, and facing life as a single parent. But she’s not doing it alone.
Christopher steps up and is right there by Dakota’s side, being there for the girls, offering support and comfort and generally being an awesome guy. As time goes on, their feelings for each other start to change, and in the most beautifully natural, honest and heartfelt love story, they fall hopelessly for each other.
I loved watching these two come together. They have some tricky dynamics to navigate and some complicated feelings to work through, but they do it together, and with a lot of soul-searching and openly sharing their feelings, their relationship is functional and romantic, and it’s so gorgeous to watch.
Christopher is such a great hero. He’s got a huge heart, and he’s so sweet with Dakota and her daughters. And, of course, he’s sexy as hell, so the love story is hot and steamy, with lots of emotion and swoony moments.
The whole family involves themselves, and there are scenes that had me laughing out loud at the antics and banter from Christopher’s siblings, cousins, father and uncles. I loved being back with this group, and look forward to more adventures with the family.
This is a really gorgeous read. It’s sweet and easy with nice emotion and very little angst, and I loved it.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
4 stars
This is the second book in the Meant For series, which forms part of the Natasha Madison hockey universe. The Stone/Grant/Horton families are deeply interwoven, but you can easily read the books as standalones as enough description is given to let you know who the key characters are in each story.
This is Christopher’s book. He is the son of Justin and Caroline (their story is This Is Forever, This Is, #4) and, like most of the men in the family, he’s a hockey player. His world is shaken when he learns that his best friend and teammate, Benji, has died suddenly, and he immediately leaves his big family holiday to return home to be there to support Benji’s wife, Dakota, and their two daughters.
Dakota thought was living her dream life, until her husband changed into somebody she didn’t recognise. Her heartbreak culminated in his tragic death by overdose on her couch, and now she’s left dealing with grief and anger, and facing life as a single parent. But she’s not doing it alone.
Christopher steps up and is right there by Dakota’s side, being there for the girls, offering support and comfort and generally being an awesome guy. As time goes on, their feelings for each other start to change, and in the most beautifully natural, honest and heartfelt love story, they fall hopelessly for each other.
“We are both in unchartered territory.” I smirk. “And there is no one else I want to be unchartered with than you.”
She tilts her head to the side. “Same.”
I loved watching these two come together. They have some tricky dynamics to navigate and some complicated feelings to work through, but they do it together, and with a lot of soul-searching and openly sharing their feelings, their relationship is functional and romantic, and it’s so gorgeous to watch.
“When we go there, and we will get there Dakota.” She smirks at me. “It’s going to be the last time it’ll be a first for both of us.”
Christopher is such a great hero. He’s got a huge heart, and he’s so sweet with Dakota and her daughters. And, of course, he’s sexy as hell, so the love story is hot and steamy, with lots of emotion and swoony moments.
“You’re mine. I’m not sorry you’re mine. I might be sorry about how it happened, but no way in fuck am I sorry for that.”
The whole family involves themselves, and there are scenes that had me laughing out loud at the antics and banter from Christopher’s siblings, cousins, father and uncles. I loved being back with this group, and look forward to more adventures with the family.
This is a really gorgeous read. It’s sweet and easy with nice emotion and very little angst, and I loved it.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
May 8, 2024
No matter how many times Dakota tells Christopher she doesn’t need his help, he keeps showing up for her and her kids after the loss of her husband. Christopher lost his best friend and needs to be there for Dakota. Dakota lost her husband a long time ago when he chose other women and drugs over her and their kids. The more time Christopher is there for Dakota and the girls, the stronger their feelings for each other grows.
I mean, his looks make all the girls go crazy for him, but it’s the way he cares about everyone and everything that makes him special.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed this book so much! Single Mom (Widow), Hockey Hottie, Slow Burn, so much juicy tension!
It’s hard to tell you all the reasons why I liked this book without giving too much away. Essentially the marriage had been on the rocks well before Dakotas husband had died, so while she was heartbroken over his death, it was also the heartbreak of “what could have been”. Benji was Christopher’s best friend, so he has to be there for Dakota and the girls, and he feels guilt over his developing feelings for Dakota.
There were so many good moments, their internal monologues were so insightful and I loved that any of the angst felt natural. Sometimes there are miscommunications that drive me insane because they’re so unrealistic, but their feelings felt so valid.
“all I wanted to do was tell her how much more time I wanted to spend with the girls and her. How much more I wanted things that I shouldn’t want, that I wasn’t allowed to want. I rub my hands over my face, trying to rub away the thoughts going through my head.”
“Fuck it all,” he says before his mouth touches mine. My hand grips his tie even tighter, while the other one comes up to hold his cheek. At the same time as his tongue touches mine, fireworks go off inside me.
*E-ARC review
I mean, his looks make all the girls go crazy for him, but it’s the way he cares about everyone and everything that makes him special.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed this book so much! Single Mom (Widow), Hockey Hottie, Slow Burn, so much juicy tension!
It’s hard to tell you all the reasons why I liked this book without giving too much away. Essentially the marriage had been on the rocks well before Dakotas husband had died, so while she was heartbroken over his death, it was also the heartbreak of “what could have been”. Benji was Christopher’s best friend, so he has to be there for Dakota and the girls, and he feels guilt over his developing feelings for Dakota.
There were so many good moments, their internal monologues were so insightful and I loved that any of the angst felt natural. Sometimes there are miscommunications that drive me insane because they’re so unrealistic, but their feelings felt so valid.
“all I wanted to do was tell her how much more time I wanted to spend with the girls and her. How much more I wanted things that I shouldn’t want, that I wasn’t allowed to want. I rub my hands over my face, trying to rub away the thoughts going through my head.”
“Fuck it all,” he says before his mouth touches mine. My hand grips his tie even tighter, while the other one comes up to hold his cheek. At the same time as his tongue touches mine, fireworks go off inside me.
*E-ARC review
May 11, 2024
wow! what a great read
Meant for Her is the 2nd book in the Meant For Series, but can be read as a standalone. I loved diving back into the world of the Stone family. The family banter, text messages, the unconditional love they have for one another is just so good for the soul to read. They also provide a lot of comedic relief in times of seriousness. Topics of drug use, abuse,addiction, cheating, and death are mentioned. From the beginning we are hit with pure heartbreak, lies, deception, and gut wrenching emotions. Dakota is facing a harsh reality. The man she loved wasn’t who she thought he was. After his loss, she’s struggling trying to juggle her new reality, fighting off the guilt, while trying to find herself, and be there for her two girls. As time progresses we see her finally start to let people back into her life. Christopher being one of those people. We see them go on this roller coaster to find peace and acceptance of their past but also find a way to heal each other. Christopher becomes her safe space. He’s so swoon worthy. I think he’s my favorite. He’s protective, attentive, sexy and shows Koda what a loving and supportive partner can be. The banter, the sass, the sexiness that happens once they both let their guard down was just what we needed. And, Christoper’s mouth. Oh, yes please… Loved little Luna and Rain. Those little girls were just the cherry on top of this beautiful written story. I read this book but also listened to the audiobook. I highly recommend. Conner Crais and Savannah Peachwood are Christopher and Dakota. They brought these characters to life and made me feel all the emotions. Their characterizations were spot on. Great read and listen
Meant for Her is the 2nd book in the Meant For Series, but can be read as a standalone. I loved diving back into the world of the Stone family. The family banter, text messages, the unconditional love they have for one another is just so good for the soul to read. They also provide a lot of comedic relief in times of seriousness. Topics of drug use, abuse,addiction, cheating, and death are mentioned. From the beginning we are hit with pure heartbreak, lies, deception, and gut wrenching emotions. Dakota is facing a harsh reality. The man she loved wasn’t who she thought he was. After his loss, she’s struggling trying to juggle her new reality, fighting off the guilt, while trying to find herself, and be there for her two girls. As time progresses we see her finally start to let people back into her life. Christopher being one of those people. We see them go on this roller coaster to find peace and acceptance of their past but also find a way to heal each other. Christopher becomes her safe space. He’s so swoon worthy. I think he’s my favorite. He’s protective, attentive, sexy and shows Koda what a loving and supportive partner can be. The banter, the sass, the sexiness that happens once they both let their guard down was just what we needed. And, Christoper’s mouth. Oh, yes please… Loved little Luna and Rain. Those little girls were just the cherry on top of this beautiful written story. I read this book but also listened to the audiobook. I highly recommend. Conner Crais and Savannah Peachwood are Christopher and Dakota. They brought these characters to life and made me feel all the emotions. Their characterizations were spot on. Great read and listen
May 12, 2024
Ahhh Sweet
It's a perfectly good and sweet story. The road from hated best friend of my husband to friend to possibility to love to love of my life was felt on every step. There are details, and the author doesn’t let you miss a single moment of the journey.
#HockeyRomance #PerectMMC
The MMC is close to perfect as one can get. Hockey is a huge factor in the story, but this is not a typical hockey romance where you find high spice and good explicit smexytimes with hockey wither in the background or marketing tool. I liked how we see the hockey family side, and the romance is a slow med burn.
#wittybanter
Before you know it, the story is at 65%, and you realize that at most the love interests have had kind of smoking hot kissing sessions, but it starts to feel repetitive with the two steps forward but then 3 steps back. The last 20% of the book is packed with the relationship, but the epilogue didn't feel exciting or new. Just the same story pattern. We seriously felt the full year of these people's lives.
👌🏾 the writing is good. The characters are interesting. We have the HEA and continued world view just wish we didn't battle the same conflict until it was threadbare.
It's a perfectly good and sweet story. The road from hated best friend of my husband to friend to possibility to love to love of my life was felt on every step. There are details, and the author doesn’t let you miss a single moment of the journey.
#HockeyRomance #PerectMMC
The MMC is close to perfect as one can get. Hockey is a huge factor in the story, but this is not a typical hockey romance where you find high spice and good explicit smexytimes with hockey wither in the background or marketing tool. I liked how we see the hockey family side, and the romance is a slow med burn.
#wittybanter
Before you know it, the story is at 65%, and you realize that at most the love interests have had kind of smoking hot kissing sessions, but it starts to feel repetitive with the two steps forward but then 3 steps back. The last 20% of the book is packed with the relationship, but the epilogue didn't feel exciting or new. Just the same story pattern. We seriously felt the full year of these people's lives.
👌🏾 the writing is good. The characters are interesting. We have the HEA and continued world view just wish we didn't battle the same conflict until it was threadbare.
May 9, 2024
This was my first of Natasha’s and most definitely won’t be my last! I fell in love with the emotions and the characters in this book 🥹💖
I loved how strong Dakota is. She’s dealing with her husband, Benji, being a drug addict while cheating on her constantly and keeps a front going for her two little girls. When she finds her husband on the couch after an overdose, she goes through a whirlwind of emotions and I just loved seeing her figure out how to continue on and be there for her girls throughout it.
Christopher is one of Benji’s best friends and teammates. When he receives the phone call of his passing he is at a loss for words. He had a feeling that Benji was a user but had no idea how bad he had gotten. When he comes to comfort Dakota, he finds that she’s hesitant to let him close because she believes he knew who her husband was all along. While they are both grieving the loss they find that their attraction towards one another begins to grow- causing them to not know how to go on.
I loved Christopher and how persistent he was to get Dakota to let him in- even before they realized their attraction, he just wanted to help her grieve and be there for her and her daughters. While this was an emotional read for me, I was still in love with the amount of banter, funny moments, and spice that was included! It was a great story of healing and a second chance at how love is supposed to be 💖
I loved how strong Dakota is. She’s dealing with her husband, Benji, being a drug addict while cheating on her constantly and keeps a front going for her two little girls. When she finds her husband on the couch after an overdose, she goes through a whirlwind of emotions and I just loved seeing her figure out how to continue on and be there for her girls throughout it.
Christopher is one of Benji’s best friends and teammates. When he receives the phone call of his passing he is at a loss for words. He had a feeling that Benji was a user but had no idea how bad he had gotten. When he comes to comfort Dakota, he finds that she’s hesitant to let him close because she believes he knew who her husband was all along. While they are both grieving the loss they find that their attraction towards one another begins to grow- causing them to not know how to go on.
I loved Christopher and how persistent he was to get Dakota to let him in- even before they realized their attraction, he just wanted to help her grieve and be there for her and her daughters. While this was an emotional read for me, I was still in love with the amount of banter, funny moments, and spice that was included! It was a great story of healing and a second chance at how love is supposed to be 💖
May 10, 2024
4.5 stars
I enjoyed Christopher and Dakota's story. This one is a little deeper and more emotional than her past books. The characters struggle with the actions of Dakota’s husband, and as the layers are peeled back secrets are revealed.
Dakota has been a single mom for some time, but after the loss of her husband, it is now real. He had checked out of their marriage long before. Christopher is Benji’s best friend, and in all the chaos, starts to have feelings for Dakota.
The slow burn, forbidden, single mom story, filled with loss and then love, is a fantastic story. Christopher is everything I expect from him, and I love how he steps up for Dakota’s girls. The story grabbed me right away and held my attention until the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I enjoyed Christopher and Dakota's story. This one is a little deeper and more emotional than her past books. The characters struggle with the actions of Dakota’s husband, and as the layers are peeled back secrets are revealed.
Dakota has been a single mom for some time, but after the loss of her husband, it is now real. He had checked out of their marriage long before. Christopher is Benji’s best friend, and in all the chaos, starts to have feelings for Dakota.
The slow burn, forbidden, single mom story, filled with loss and then love, is a fantastic story. Christopher is everything I expect from him, and I love how he steps up for Dakota’s girls. The story grabbed me right away and held my attention until the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 22, 2024
Of all Natasha’s books, this is the saddest one I’ve read from her, and I say it because of the whole theme of grief. Let’s say I had my resistances since I didn’t know how she would handle everything, and let’s say she surpassed everything I thought.
The story of Chris and Dakota is difficult from the beginning, she lost her husband and he his best friend, but not everything is what they thought. As you read, you see that Dakota’s married life was not rosy and something I like about the author is that she knows how to handle the issue of addiction very well (her book This Is Wild is one of my favorites). The more I read, the more it hurt me for her and the girls, and I’m so glad they had Christian with them, that he helped them cope with everything and something to highlight is that here it normalizes going to seek professional help to overcome things and that for me takes the whole book.
As I said at the beginning, the relationship is difficult, two with a past that unites them, what people will say. But even so, it was nice to see these two grow as people, Chris’s relationship with the girls took more than one tear from me and Dakota as a mother is an example. When they are together it just feels good, the more you advance in the story it just feels good that they are together, I thought I would have my prejudices but no, Christian and Dakota stole a piece of my heart and I loved seeing them overcome each of the obstacles that were put (although most of them were put by themselves)
Now here I will become a bit of a fan but it is that reading this whole family again is a safe place for me and here they did not disappoint in adopting Dakota and the girls as their own, the whole Stone family is my favorite in terms of dynamics and reading them all together making chaos is a pleasure
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
De todos los libros de Natasha este es el libro más triste que he leído de ella y lo digo por todo el tema del duelo, digamos que tenía mis resistencias ya que no sabía cómo manejaria todo y digamos que superó todo lo que pensaba.
La historia de Chris y Dakota es difícil desde un principio, ella perdió a su esposo y él a su mejor amigo pero no todo es lo que pensaban, mientras vas leyendo vas viendo que la vida de casada de Dakota no era color de rosa y algo que me gusta de la autora es que sabe manejar muy bien el tema de la adicción (su libro This Is Wild es de mis favoritos) mientras mas leía mas me dolía por ella y las niñas, y me alegra tanto que tuvieran a Christian con ellas, que el las ayudó a sobrellevar todo y algo que resaltar es que aquí se normaliza el ir a buscar ayuda profesional para superar las cosas y eso para mi se lleva todo el libro.
Como dije al principio la relación es difícil, dos con un pasado que los une, el qué dirán las personas pero aun así, fue lindo ver crecer a estos dos como personas, la relación de Chris con las niñas me saco mas de una lágrima y Dakota como madre es un ejemplo. Cuando están juntos solo se siente bien, mientras más avanzas en la historia solo se siente bien que ellos estén juntos, pensaba que tendría mis prejuicios pero no, Christian y Dakota se robaron un pedazo de mi corazón y me encanto verlos superar cada uno de los obstáculos que se ponían (aunque la mayoría de ellos, eran puestos por ellos mismos)
Ahora aquí me pondré un poco fan pero es que volver a leer a toda esta familia es un lugar seguro para mi y aqui no decepcionaron en adoptar a Dakota y las niñas como suyos, toda la familia Stone es mi favorita en cuanto a dinámicas se refiere y leerlos todos juntos haciendo caos es un placer.
The story of Chris and Dakota is difficult from the beginning, she lost her husband and he his best friend, but not everything is what they thought. As you read, you see that Dakota’s married life was not rosy and something I like about the author is that she knows how to handle the issue of addiction very well (her book This Is Wild is one of my favorites). The more I read, the more it hurt me for her and the girls, and I’m so glad they had Christian with them, that he helped them cope with everything and something to highlight is that here it normalizes going to seek professional help to overcome things and that for me takes the whole book.
As I said at the beginning, the relationship is difficult, two with a past that unites them, what people will say. But even so, it was nice to see these two grow as people, Chris’s relationship with the girls took more than one tear from me and Dakota as a mother is an example. When they are together it just feels good, the more you advance in the story it just feels good that they are together, I thought I would have my prejudices but no, Christian and Dakota stole a piece of my heart and I loved seeing them overcome each of the obstacles that were put (although most of them were put by themselves)
Now here I will become a bit of a fan but it is that reading this whole family again is a safe place for me and here they did not disappoint in adopting Dakota and the girls as their own, the whole Stone family is my favorite in terms of dynamics and reading them all together making chaos is a pleasure
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
De todos los libros de Natasha este es el libro más triste que he leído de ella y lo digo por todo el tema del duelo, digamos que tenía mis resistencias ya que no sabía cómo manejaria todo y digamos que superó todo lo que pensaba.
La historia de Chris y Dakota es difícil desde un principio, ella perdió a su esposo y él a su mejor amigo pero no todo es lo que pensaban, mientras vas leyendo vas viendo que la vida de casada de Dakota no era color de rosa y algo que me gusta de la autora es que sabe manejar muy bien el tema de la adicción (su libro This Is Wild es de mis favoritos) mientras mas leía mas me dolía por ella y las niñas, y me alegra tanto que tuvieran a Christian con ellas, que el las ayudó a sobrellevar todo y algo que resaltar es que aquí se normaliza el ir a buscar ayuda profesional para superar las cosas y eso para mi se lleva todo el libro.
Como dije al principio la relación es difícil, dos con un pasado que los une, el qué dirán las personas pero aun así, fue lindo ver crecer a estos dos como personas, la relación de Chris con las niñas me saco mas de una lágrima y Dakota como madre es un ejemplo. Cuando están juntos solo se siente bien, mientras más avanzas en la historia solo se siente bien que ellos estén juntos, pensaba que tendría mis prejuicios pero no, Christian y Dakota se robaron un pedazo de mi corazón y me encanto verlos superar cada uno de los obstáculos que se ponían (aunque la mayoría de ellos, eran puestos por ellos mismos)
Ahora aquí me pondré un poco fan pero es que volver a leer a toda esta familia es un lugar seguro para mi y aqui no decepcionaron en adoptar a Dakota y las niñas como suyos, toda la familia Stone es mi favorita en cuanto a dinámicas se refiere y leerlos todos juntos haciendo caos es un placer.
July 26, 2024
Oh my heart 😭😭😭
May 10, 2024
I loved this book so much! Christopher is like a true book boyfriend and Dakota is such a strong, incredible woman. I loved how their friendship blossomed into this beautiful, supportive, and loving relationship. Definitely recommend!
May 19, 2024
2.75⭐️ The ending was rush but the story was cute
May 14, 2024
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Meant for Her delivered a beautiful and passionate romance between a widow and a hockey player who is a member of a famous NHL family. This story of loss, grief, healing, and rediscovering love will appeal to readers looking for an emotional read.
Natasha Madison definitely knocked this one out of the park. This book was everything I hoped for and more. Meant for Her is the second book in the Meant For series. Although this is a spinoff from the author's This Is series, Meant for Her serves well as a standalone read.
Tragedy strikes at the beginning of the novel. Dakota, the heroine, lost her husband to a drug overdose. Immediately, I felt for her and her two girls. Discovering that her husband wasn't whom she thought made the situation even more heartbreaking. Especially with her trying to protect the children from the truth.
I raise my hat to Dakota. Despite suffering so much pain and loss, she stayed strong through it all. Her fears, anger, grief and guilt resonated with me. I cried along with her each time she learned something devastating about her husband. It made me happy to see her overcome all these in return for a chance at happiness.
Christopher's pain was just as palpable throughout the story. Recognizing that he never really knew the man he considered a friend broke his heart. The disturbing revelations evoked feelings of guilt, especially when Dakota blamed him.
I admired his persistence in providing support to Dakota and her girls, even in the face of her rejection. Dakota pushed him away so often, but he never gave up. Eventually, they became close, and soon they began to develop feelings for each other. Their romance developed nicely. Sweet, spicy and completely delightful. Although, it was not without obstacles.
His relationship with the girls was so adorable. The way he took up the role as a substitute father, giving the girls the love and support they needed.
Meant for Her reaffirmed my belief in second chances. A second chance at happiness and love after experiencing a devastating loss. Fans of romance should not miss this one.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Natasha Madison definitely knocked this one out of the park. This book was everything I hoped for and more. Meant for Her is the second book in the Meant For series. Although this is a spinoff from the author's This Is series, Meant for Her serves well as a standalone read.
Tragedy strikes at the beginning of the novel. Dakota, the heroine, lost her husband to a drug overdose. Immediately, I felt for her and her two girls. Discovering that her husband wasn't whom she thought made the situation even more heartbreaking. Especially with her trying to protect the children from the truth.
I raise my hat to Dakota. Despite suffering so much pain and loss, she stayed strong through it all. Her fears, anger, grief and guilt resonated with me. I cried along with her each time she learned something devastating about her husband. It made me happy to see her overcome all these in return for a chance at happiness.
Christopher's pain was just as palpable throughout the story. Recognizing that he never really knew the man he considered a friend broke his heart. The disturbing revelations evoked feelings of guilt, especially when Dakota blamed him.
I admired his persistence in providing support to Dakota and her girls, even in the face of her rejection. Dakota pushed him away so often, but he never gave up. Eventually, they became close, and soon they began to develop feelings for each other. Their romance developed nicely. Sweet, spicy and completely delightful. Although, it was not without obstacles.
His relationship with the girls was so adorable. The way he took up the role as a substitute father, giving the girls the love and support they needed.
Meant for Her reaffirmed my belief in second chances. A second chance at happiness and love after experiencing a devastating loss. Fans of romance should not miss this one.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
May 10, 2024
Guys, this story had ALL THE FEELS…truly all of them! I don’t think I’ve teared up so much in any of Natasha’s books as this one. The grief, the pain, the courage and then bouncing back from all this stronger than ever. Just Wow! Christopher and Dakota were the 2 most well written characters I’ve read in awhile.
Christopher was best friends with Benji, Dakota’s husband. Unexpectedly, Benji passes away. We see Koda put on her big girl panties, pick up the pieces and hold it together for her girls Luna & Rain. The woman is a warrior. Christopher feeling all sorts of guilt decides he needs to be there for all of them and won’t take no for an answer. Luna and Rain’s bond with Christopher is the absolute cutest thing you will ever read. The fact that they wanted to skate and he took them to every weekend he was available. Gah! Hot Uncle alert! And Rain asking him to go to the father daughter dance. Sobbing! 😭 Christopher and Koda’s feelings begin to grow for each other as well. As much as they both resist, because they feel like they’re betraying Benji, their first kiss was explosive💥 And the dirty mouth on Christopher!? Phew, was not expecting that! He definitely didn’t get that from his Dad 😉 He did get his big heart, kind soul and how to make the ladies swoon from him though! Koda was amazed daily at how dedicated he was to them and if he said he wanted to do something he really meant it. The bond and beautiful relationship that these 4 have is something I won’t forget for a long time.
It wouldn’t be a Natasha Madison book without the rest of Christopher’s big family making an appearance! I just love them and their big hearts. They accept anyone into the family with open arms. Their banter is always top notch and leaves you wanting to be a part of it.
Make sure you read the epilogue and bonus epilogue as you get a glimpse of which sibling is coming in The next book 😉
Favorite quotes:
“You were being a scared punk-ass bitch.” He doesn’t skip one single beat. “And then you took it onto the ice and let your team down.” “This pep talk is amazing, Dad. We should really do this more.” “Just keeping it real, son.” He laughs.“
“I know we didn’t find each other the way normal fairy tales are written.” She smiles. “But I don’t give a shit because this is our story, and we get to write it.”
Thanks to The Author Agency for the ARC!
Christopher was best friends with Benji, Dakota’s husband. Unexpectedly, Benji passes away. We see Koda put on her big girl panties, pick up the pieces and hold it together for her girls Luna & Rain. The woman is a warrior. Christopher feeling all sorts of guilt decides he needs to be there for all of them and won’t take no for an answer. Luna and Rain’s bond with Christopher is the absolute cutest thing you will ever read. The fact that they wanted to skate and he took them to every weekend he was available. Gah! Hot Uncle alert! And Rain asking him to go to the father daughter dance. Sobbing! 😭 Christopher and Koda’s feelings begin to grow for each other as well. As much as they both resist, because they feel like they’re betraying Benji, their first kiss was explosive💥 And the dirty mouth on Christopher!? Phew, was not expecting that! He definitely didn’t get that from his Dad 😉 He did get his big heart, kind soul and how to make the ladies swoon from him though! Koda was amazed daily at how dedicated he was to them and if he said he wanted to do something he really meant it. The bond and beautiful relationship that these 4 have is something I won’t forget for a long time.
It wouldn’t be a Natasha Madison book without the rest of Christopher’s big family making an appearance! I just love them and their big hearts. They accept anyone into the family with open arms. Their banter is always top notch and leaves you wanting to be a part of it.
Make sure you read the epilogue and bonus epilogue as you get a glimpse of which sibling is coming in The next book 😉
Favorite quotes:
“You were being a scared punk-ass bitch.” He doesn’t skip one single beat. “And then you took it onto the ice and let your team down.” “This pep talk is amazing, Dad. We should really do this more.” “Just keeping it real, son.” He laughs.“
“I know we didn’t find each other the way normal fairy tales are written.” She smiles. “But I don’t give a shit because this is our story, and we get to write it.”
Thanks to The Author Agency for the ARC!
May 3, 2024
I discovered this author last year and since then I have devoured every book in her backlist. Natasha Madison? She’s magnificent. She is a master at her craft and she continues to prove that with every book she releases and Meant For Her was no different.
What to expect:
🖤 Hockey Romance
🏒 Emotional Scars
🖤 Enemies-to-Lovers
🏒 Single Mom
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🏒 He Falls First
🖤 Second Chance at Love
🏒 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 Healing Journey
🏒 Substance Abuse/Addiction
Dakota finds her life going in a different direction than she ever predicted after her husband dies, leaving her a single mother to her two beautiful daughters. She now has to pick up the pieces, and protect her daughters, however, with the devastating death of her husband she is learning that the man she married isn’t the man she thought he was. It seems as though, she knew very little about him and what he was up to. She’s angry and she’s hurt that his so-called friends knew what was going on and they should have been able to help him. Now Dakota needs to find a new normal, a new life for her and her girls. There is one person who is able to breakthrough Dakota’s shell and be there for her and the girls and his name is Christopher.
Christopher is Dakota’s dead husband’s best friend and one of the only ones who didn’t know what was going on with him, so he’s grieving his best friend too. He’s everything that Dakota and her girls deserve and he is proving that. It’s his mission to make sure all three of the girls are looked after. However, he’s struggling with guilt of not knowing his friend was in trouble and he’s trying to work through that. The fact that Dakota is also grieving, means Christopher and her can lean on each other and the more time they spend together, the more they get to know each other and sparks begin to fly.
I adored these two so much. Christoper and Dakota helped each other out of a dark place. You can tell these two were meant to me. As they healed and grew, the chemistry, bond and connection did too and the love blossomed and it was perfect and everything they both needed and deserved in their lives. Christoper was so good with the girls too… Which makes him even more perfect. If that’s even possible!
I knew going into this book that it was going to be incredible, Natasha’s books always are. However, I was not expecting to get my heart ripped and stomped on within the first chapter. As always, my heart was pieced back together with this beautiful story of healing and a second chance at love. It was extremely well-written and there was so much growth with Dakota and Christoper as a couple and them as individuals too!
I highly recommend giving this book a read/listen.
You won’t be disappointed!!
5 STARS!
What to expect:
🖤 Hockey Romance
🏒 Emotional Scars
🖤 Enemies-to-Lovers
🏒 Single Mom
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🏒 He Falls First
🖤 Second Chance at Love
🏒 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 Healing Journey
🏒 Substance Abuse/Addiction
Dakota finds her life going in a different direction than she ever predicted after her husband dies, leaving her a single mother to her two beautiful daughters. She now has to pick up the pieces, and protect her daughters, however, with the devastating death of her husband she is learning that the man she married isn’t the man she thought he was. It seems as though, she knew very little about him and what he was up to. She’s angry and she’s hurt that his so-called friends knew what was going on and they should have been able to help him. Now Dakota needs to find a new normal, a new life for her and her girls. There is one person who is able to breakthrough Dakota’s shell and be there for her and the girls and his name is Christopher.
Christopher is Dakota’s dead husband’s best friend and one of the only ones who didn’t know what was going on with him, so he’s grieving his best friend too. He’s everything that Dakota and her girls deserve and he is proving that. It’s his mission to make sure all three of the girls are looked after. However, he’s struggling with guilt of not knowing his friend was in trouble and he’s trying to work through that. The fact that Dakota is also grieving, means Christopher and her can lean on each other and the more time they spend together, the more they get to know each other and sparks begin to fly.
I adored these two so much. Christoper and Dakota helped each other out of a dark place. You can tell these two were meant to me. As they healed and grew, the chemistry, bond and connection did too and the love blossomed and it was perfect and everything they both needed and deserved in their lives. Christoper was so good with the girls too… Which makes him even more perfect. If that’s even possible!
I knew going into this book that it was going to be incredible, Natasha’s books always are. However, I was not expecting to get my heart ripped and stomped on within the first chapter. As always, my heart was pieced back together with this beautiful story of healing and a second chance at love. It was extremely well-written and there was so much growth with Dakota and Christoper as a couple and them as individuals too!
I highly recommend giving this book a read/listen.
You won’t be disappointed!!
5 STARS!
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