Release Blitz + Review: "Only One Forever" by Natasha Madison

I'm delighted to join the release blitz celebrating "Only One Forever" by Natasha Madison, book #8 of the Only One series. Characters from previous books in the series (as well as Madison's earlier Something So and This Is series) make cameo appearances in this story, but it reads as a standalone.

 

Professional hockey player Dylan Stone is at a crossroads; his contract with Montreal is expiring, and as much as he loves the team that drafted him, he's ready to explore his options with other teams. Meanwhile, Dylan's best friend, Alexandra "Alex" Horton, recently relocated from New York to Dallas to run her cousin-in-law Brad Wilson's new hockey school. When Alex realizes how much Dylan is struggling with his decision over where to play next season, she invites him to spend a few days with her in Dallas to clear his head. Unfortunately, Dylan ends up more confused than ever when he suddenly realizes that he has romantic feelings for Alex. The problem is that they were raised together as quasi-cousins for most of their childhood, and even though Alex has secretly been in love with Dylan for years, she's never acted on it because she's afraid of the potential impact on their family dynamics. Their true feelings finally come to light during a family vacation in Hawaii, but will their parents' concerns tear them apart before the relationship even begins?

 

I loved the way Dylan and Alex bantered and teased each other, as well as the slow burn as their relationship gradually shifted from friends to lovers. However, I was also a bit frustrated with them for not being honest about their feelings sooner, as well as the way Alex overreacted and ran away when she finally told Dylan how she felt. There really didn't need to be so much angst! Fortunately, it didn't take them long to figure things out, and once they did, they were steadfast in their commitment to each other despite their family's initial opposition. In addition, I loved the little twist in the second half of the book and the way it brought Dylan's story full circle.

Overall, "Only One Forever" gave me all the feels and I highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary/sports romance. I'm sad that the Only One series is coming to an end, but hopefully we'll see at least a few of these characters again in the upcoming Made For series.  

*Review copy provided by the author/publisher via Wildfire Marketing Solutions. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

About "Only One Forever"

Dylan

My dreams came true when I was adopted at ten.

I was the best on the ice. Living the life of what every kid dreams of.

We’ve been best friends since then. Even when she was the annoying little sister following us around.

I would do anything for her.

It is another family vacation; except this time it feels different. Everything feels different.

Alex

All my memories have Dylan in them. From the first time I fell off my bike, to the time I got my heartbroken for the first time.

He’s always been my protector, but it’s time to let the dream of being his go.

One last family trip, one last goodbye.

Except fate steps in and has other plans.

At the end of the day, you only get one forever.