Book Review: If You Want Me by Helena Hunting
“If You Want Me” by Helena Hunting is the second installment in the Toronto Terror Series, and it’s everything I didn’t know I needed in a hockey romance! This book has it all: a secret relationship, forbidden love, dad’s best friend and teammate, an age gap, and close proximity—tropes that are perfectly executed. I was grinning and swooning from start to finish, entirely captivated by this story.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the brilliant mix of humor, romance, and character development. The banter is hilarious, the first kiss is swoon-worthy, and the chemistry between the leads is undeniable. Hollis is the ultimate swoony guy—protective, charming, and irresistibly drawn to Aurora, who is equally compelling as a strong, ambitious woman with a quirky side. Their dynamic is electric, and their journey together is both heartwarming and steamy.
Aurora Hammerstein, the Toronto Terror’s unofficial team princess, shines as the story’s heroine. I loved her tall, athletic build and how she’s portrayed as a powerful, confident woman in the front office. However, I wish she had found her voice a bit more when dealing with her father and Hollis. Her character development was strong, but her hesitancy to speak up sometimes left me wanting more.
The supporting characters are just as delightful, with fun personalities that add depth to the story. And let’s not forget the adorable cats, Postie and Malone, who steal the show whenever they make an appearance!
While “If You Want Me” can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with the first book in the series—though I have to admit, I did DNF it due to some over-the-top antics that didn’t quite land for me. However, this second book completely exceeded my expectations. While it still has some of that playful exaggeration, the story and chemistry felt more aligned with what I’ve come to love from Helena Hunting. Every situation and beat of this story worked seamlessly, making it an enjoyable read.
The pacing of the story is solid, though I did find it a bit long at times. Despite this, the plot never lost its momentum, and I was invested in every twist and turn.
I experienced this story in both print and audio formats, and I have to say, the audiobook is a must-listen! Zachary Webber and Stella Bloom deliver an outstanding dual narration that perfectly captures the essence of the characters. The production quality is top-notch, making the listening experience even more immersive.
Helena Hunting has crafted a story that’s both fun and emotionally resonant, with characters you’ll fall in love with. If you’re a fan of hockey romances with a side of humor, heart, and heat, this book is a definite must-read!
