Embrace

By: Bal Khabra

Many thanks to Berkley Romance for the gifted ARC of this book!

Kian Ishida is a hockey player who just got drafted. His contract starts in January, which means he’s got a semester to finish his credits and get his college degree – something he promised his dad before he passed away. Desperate to ace this 5 credit class, he joins a study group that is run by Scarlett, who is also the coach’s daughter. She has a bit of a reputation and is trying to change that. When Kian joins her study group, they agree to help each other – she’ll tutor him, and he’ll help fix her reputation. The more time they spend studying together, and hanging, the more they enjoy each others’ company. With a connection that neither of them expected, what will become of them?

This is my first read by this author, and this is the 4th book in this series. It CAN be read as a standalone, but I absolutely want to go back and read the first 3 books.

Khabra’s writing is addicting. Each word, each sentence, each conversation between the two built on each other and it made me want to do nothing but read the book. Kian is a fantastic MMC. He’s sweet, he’s caring, he sees beyond what everyone else sees – he sees her heart. There was a single moment that sealed it for me – when she is on the floor, upset about the news received. That’s ALL I’m going to say as I don’t want to give it away. But this moment.. the words he spoke, MELTED me.

Scarlett was also a great FMC. She’s edgier. She’s witty and smart, sassy and sexy. She brings all the banter and the spice. But underneath it all, she is hurting. And it was really awesome to see the softer side that Kian did bring out.

This book is perfect for anyone that loves romance books. If you haven’t already read this series, or this author, I highly suggest that you do!

Publish Date: August 4, 2026
Find the book here.
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