From the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series comes a romantic comedy about instant attraction, second chances, and not-so-little white lies.Sometimes I need an escape from the demands, the puck bunnies, and the notoriety that come with being an NHL team captain. I just want to be a normal guy for a few weeks. So when I leave Chicago for some peace and quiet, the last thing I … quiet, the last thing I expect is for a gorgeous woman to literally fall into my lap on a flight to Alaska. Even better, she has absolutely no idea who I am.
Lainey is the perfect escape from my life. My plan for seclusion becomes a monthlong sex fest punctuated with domestic bliss. But it ends just as abruptly as it began. When I’m called away on a family emergency, I realize too late that I have no way to contact Lainey.
A year later, a chance encounter throws Lainey and me together again. But I still have a lie hanging over my head, and Lainey’s keeping secrets of her own. With more than lust at stake, the truth may be our game changer.
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Helena Hunting was my first foray into sports romance and because of that, Pucked will always be one of my favorite books. I was thrilled to learn that her new All In series is a spin-off of the Pucked series, and with Violet cracking me up at the very beginning with the aquarium scene I knew this book would be a winner! While the beginning had me laughing, A Lie for a Lie had some more serious moments and issues compared to her other books but there was still plenty laughs (mainly involving Violet). RJ and Lainey were opposites but they worked so well together. I love that Lainey was sheltered and had anxiety issues but was trying to push herself to become more independent, RJ was great with helping Lainey when she needed it but also realized she was incredibly strong all on her own. Helena Hunting gave the characters time to get to know each other, it worked well with who the characters were… yes they were attracted to each other and the chemistry was great but we weren’t forced to believe in ‘insta-love’, their relationship seemed more natural. Second chance romances are usually hit or miss with me, there are some instances that I don’t think I could forgive and give someone another chance so I have a hard time enjoying or believing in those couples. Luckily this book was written extremely well and the separation between Lainey and RJ was more of an unfortunate circumstance than anything else so I was definitely rooting for them the entire time! I can’t wait to see where the rest of this series will take us!
Hells yes!! Ms. Hunting is taking the readers back to her world of hockey!!
This is a spin-off from her wildly popular Pucked series.
This is the story of RJ/Rook and Lainey. A chance meeting on the way to the Alaska wilderness. A fantastic summer together and then circumstances separate them for a year.
Lies by omission and secrets are revealed as the story plays out.
Lainey is a fantastic character, even with her sheltered upbringing and some catastrophic events in her life, she has pushed through and become stronger for it. She is a lovely mix of independent and a fresh innocence to some things that makes her special. I admired her strength, honesty and she was not afraid to tell the people that she loved what she wanted and needed.
Oh Rook, you swoony man! I could understand why he kept some of his world away from Lainey. He wanted to finally be “seen” by a girl that he was really into. When his world gets flipped, he grabs what he loves and holds on tightly. Who doesn’t love a hero like that?
Oh and the best thing!! Seeing past characters making an appearance! It was like a family reunion and it was wonderful catching up and seeing what was new in their world. Now this doesn’t take away from the main story, it just adds more to it!
I am hoping for so much more from this world!
I am crazy in love with this romantic, witty and breathtaking story. Ms Hunting created fantastic novel which every book lover should read.
A Lie for A Lie was totally emotional rollercoaster with beautiful and heart squeezing moments. Excellent begining of the new, ‘All In’, standalone series.
Rook and Lainey and their twisted relationship totally mesmerized me and many times swept me of my feet.Their first meeting was a little disaster but full of humorous events and from that moment on I was hooked to this story.
Rook/Rookie/RJ – call him as you like but oh my gosh, what a handsome and great man he is! I wanted to steal him from this book for my own. Even thought he was wealth and famous NHL player Rookus Bowman and every one call him womanizer and Playboy, he was truly a sweetheart and gentleman.
Yes, he lied to Lainey but I could totally understand his actions and decisions he made.
Lainey was smart, intelligent and sexy young woman. Little bit clamsy and much of a talker but in adorable manner and that makes her like a wave of fresh air for the man who was always surrounded by fake women whom only were interested in his status. She was struggling with so much anxiety but I admire her for determination and pursuit of her goals.
Their chemistry was strong and flicked from the very first sight. It was intensely hot summer fling. Unfortunately they suddenly lost contact with each other, leaving lies and unspoken words between them.
I couldn’t predict where this story will lead me afterwards, but I knew that it’s going to be refreshing and captivating novel. All unexpected turns of events drown me deeper and deeper into the story.
I loved author sense of humor in this book. She definitely knows how to warm up hopeless romantic heart and speed its rate. Add a little blush on my cheeks with steamy sexy scenes and you’ve got huge fan of Helen Hunting stories.
What was supposed to be a getaway with his brother turns into so much more when RJ encounters the beautiful but reserved Lainey on the plane to Alaska. But the geeky college grad has no idea she is shacking up with a hot NHL superstar and when a family crisis has RJ leaving in the middle of the night his true identity is never told and no last names were ever given. Flash forward one year and the two reconnect in Chicago, but RJ’s identity is not the only secret that will be revealed. Can Lainey trust that RJ is telling the truth this time? Was their six week encounter only a connection in her eyes? With characters the reader cannot help but fall in love with from the opening chapters this was a fabulous read. the storyline of redemption and second chances made this a book one I could not put down and read in one siting. I hope there are more books coming in this series.
A brand new series by the fabulous Helena Hunting!
A Lie for a Lie, book one in the All In series, is another hit by this author! I devoured this book in every moment I’d have time.
Rook & Lainey meet on the plane on the way to Alaska. Him, very well known hockey player, she, absolutely no clue about hockey and who he is!
Rook enjoys this a lot, being liked for himself and not his fame.
Circumstances make them lose touch, because he had to leave.
Neither of them can forget the other. Will they find back to each other?!
Great story, funny, quirky, sexy, sporty, lovely. Helena Hunting has a way to grip my attention. Loved this story and can’t wait for the next book!
I kindly received an arc and voluntarily left a review
I’m a big fan of Helena Hunting. She can write just about anything, and I will read it and enjoy it. A Life For A Lie is a great romance novel, and it does not disappoint.
Rook/RJ meets Lainey when he winds up taking his family’s annual fishing trip as a solo trip. Lainey is a quirky, fun, smart woman, and RJ is instantly smitten with her. They kindle a friendship that quickly blossoms into more over the 6 weeks that they spend in the Alaskan wilderness, but then RJ needs to leave suddenly for a family emergency, and they are separated. They don’t have any way to contact each other, so they are separated for a year before they meet again by chance.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. RJ and Lainey were both well-crafted individuals. I enjoy characters that have depth and that have flaws that they embrace and acknowledge. RJ owned his mistakes and was fully committed to making up his absence to Lainey the second he saw her again. He was all-in, but realized that he needed to take things slow and make sure that Lainey knew he was not just committed “for now” but committed forever.
Plus I got to catch up with some of my Pucked series favorites, and it’s always fun to see familiar characters and see the next steps for them.
A Lie for a Lie was a very entertaining read! I loved being back in Chicago with the gang, I just love that bunch! They’re always a hoot and I was very happy to get an update on their lives. RJ and Lainey are wonderful and easy to like characters. How they meet for the 1st and 2nd times were both very funny. Lainey isn’t so much of a people person, which leads to some funny and awkward things coming out of her mouth. She’s a very smart girl with a good head on her shoulders. RJ is a strong, sweet, and gentle guy. He’s the perfect guy for Lainey. They’re so cute together. I saw the plot twist coming, but I still found it very cute. It may cause some problems and complications in their relationship, but RJ and Lainey are up for the challenge. I was a little sad with something that happened towards the end, but I get why it makes sense for them. I can’t wait for more of this series! *I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
I loved A Lie for a Lie, from the gorgeous cover to the happy ever after. Helena knows how to make a likeable book boyfriend, that’s for sure. Rookie is so sweet and sincere, just a genuinely good and thoughtful guy. That one time he lied though, it has big consequences. Then there’s Lainey- I love how her character grows stronger and more confident throughout the story, but I also enjoy her awkwardness.
This has mentions of characters from other stories, but is a stand alone in a new series. It’s amusing, sweet, a straight up enjoyable book. I hope this doesn’t sound like rambling. I stayed up late to finish it, couldn’t put it down, so I’m a little tired as I write this review. Just, I loved it. That’s no lie.
It’s been quite a while since i’ve read one of Helena’s stories and i’d almost forgotten just how good her writing can be. She has this knack for writing about wonderful characters that easily play off of each other, she gives us plenty of romance, fun and the odd comic moment that add up to give an all round enjoyable and satisfying read.
A Lie for a Lie was such a great story featuring RJ (Rook) and Lainey. They had a great connection and a romance that burned slowly at first but soon became a full on inferno. I really enjoyed the banter between them, it was hilarious and the journey they must take to get to their HEA was at times a little sad and intense, but i’m a drama girl and it kept the story interesting and gripping to read.
What more can I say than I loved it, every page was an absolute pleasure to read and I will be looking out for more books in this series as they release.
Rook (RJ) is a Chicago hockey player heading to Alaska for vacation to escape the puck bunnies and media attention. He is the handsome team captain and has a history of being a ladies’ man, but that has become old.
So when he meets Lainey, a sweet girl heading to Alaska to work on her latest master’s degree, he is not forthcoming with who he is. She does not recognize him and treats him like a man versus a celebrity. She is sheltered and awkward, but also funny and naturally beautiful. And he finds himself feeling protective and wanting to help her.
But soon their chemistry begins to overtake them. It’s a hot vacation fling with a potential for more, but his lie, circumstances, and some missed connections make them lose touch.
But what happens when their paths cross again?
This is a story of two opposites finding a connection, but then suffering broken hearts. RJ has a lot of explaining to do and will have to pull out all the stops to woo and win her back. And Lainey was already fearful, but now she has more reasons to be guarded.
Can he prove to her that he really is the man she was falling for in Alaska?
I really liked both of the main characters and could understand their reasoning. The lies and ommissions just kind of spun out of control. I thought RJ was sweet and swoony, and I loved his determination. And I liked that Lainey was coming into her own and finding her own inner strength. It’s a fast-paced rom-com with a lot of heart and themes of forgiveness, fate, and second chances.
Their friends and family brought humor, support, and drama to the story. Fans of the Pucked series will enjoy some cameos, but it can be read as a stand-alone. This is a complete story for this couple, but leaves it open for new stories with more teammates or friends. I really liked RJ’s sister, Stevie and Lainey’s friend, Eden so maybe they will be back.
Outstanding! I literally could not put this book down and read it in one sitting! The descriptive writing, the creativity and the realness made me feel like I was part of the story. Helena Hunting has crafted a dynamic world filled with laughter, romance and hope. Can RJ sustain a relationship while fanatics are spoiling to catch him? Will Lainey’s nervousness be too much for her or will she branch out and take a chance on love?
The entire book was a feel good read and the epilogue was fantastic! I love that it’s a standalone but has characters from other books bringing that extra spice to the story.
A truly great read!
I can always count on some laughs when I pick up a Helena Hunting book and A Lie for a Lie didn’t disappoint. Part second chance romance, part secret baby and hockey romances, this book is an easy read filled with the sizzling chemistry between the two leads and quite a few giggles.
A Lie for a Lie is the book you want with you on vacation. The pace is quick and steady, the characters super fun and easy to connect with, and beautiful settings like Kodiak, Alaska. I quickly fell for Lainey and Rook (RJ), especially Rook, who is super sweet-a total gamma male. In many ways, this is a coming of age story for Lainey who’s an introvert and the overprotected youngest child of 9. When life changes for her suddenly, she shows amazing strength.
The book is very character driven, the biggest conflict the year long separation between Lainey and RJ. Lainey holds on a little too long to a lie RJ told-which felt a bit over the top, but considering who Lainey is, I can understand her struggle. I enjoyed reading about the journey that RJ took to move on from his sordid, playboy past and how Lainey comes into her own.
I haven’t read a lot of Hunting’s hockey books, but I recognized Violet and Alex from Pucked. I’m sure there are plenty of other characters that will be familiar to readers.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for honest feedback.
I was anxiously awaiting this book. Anything that Helena Hunting writes is an automatic buy for me. I read a lot of books but there are probably only a handful of authors that fall into that category for me. A Lie for a Lie was definitely worth the wait.
Rook Bowman is the captain of the Chicago hockey team. He has had a rough year and plans to spend the off season at the family cabin in Kodiak, Alaska. On the last half of the trip, a beautiful woman literally falls into his lap. That she doesn’t recognize him or know who he is makes it even better. He intoduces himself as RJ.
Lainey Carver is working on her third master’s thesis. The focus is aquatic animals. Lainey is headed to Alaska to get away from her overprotective parents and do some research for her thesis. When she meets Rook, she is extremely flustered but she finds him a comforting presence.
When the two of them wind up staying close to each other, they spend a lot time together and get very close. When Rook is called away in the middle of the night, they each realize that they have no way to contact each other. A year later, a chance encounter results in them finding one another again. But when Lainey finds out who RJ really is, will Rook ever be able to win her back?
I just loved this book. I laughed, cried and had a lot of awwww moments. It is the hat trick of feels. As a bonus, some of the Pucked characters walk through the story. This is the first book in the author’s new hockey series, All In. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Helena Hunting is one of my favorite authors and I couldn’t wait to dive into this Pucked series spin-off. A Lie for a Lie is a combination of several different tropes, but at its heart, it’s a very sweet second chance sports romance. It’s a little less romcom than some of her other books, but there are still plenty of laughs as well as feels. While it’s not necessary to read the Pucked series first, fans of that series will be delighted by all the cameos and appearances by some of Helena Hunting’s most beloved characters.
Rook and Lainey were so cute together. They had a silly and awkward meet cute, but I loved that things developed pretty gradually between them. Yes, there is a bit of instalust and some forced proximity, but they also took the time to get to know the other. Together, they find a true connection as well as a sense of peace, comfort, and safety. They just get to be, without any judgments or expectations. I did have a little issue with their eventual separation (it is a second chance romance after all!) and the repercussions of their actions, but it’s understandable given their abrupt ending and omission of a few key facts. I really appreciated that once Lainey and Rook reconnect however, he is all in and there wasn’t a lot of unnecessary angst or drama. It’s a true second chance for them. The ending and epilogue were the perfect way to bring everything between Lainey and Rook full circle and to also open the door to more in this world.
I was extremely lucky to enjoy both the audiobook and ebook versions of this story. The audiobook casting could not have been more perfect. Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom were amazing as Rook and Lainey! Jason Clarke’s versatility and range were showcased so well and he voiced each character incredibly, regardless of age or gender. I had no problem distinguishing between characters and enjoyed his female voices just as much as the male. What really killed me though was when he voiced a certain little Scottish boy. *swoon* I could not contain the smile that took over my face. Stella Bloom was equally fantastic as anxious and awkward Lainey. Her comedic timing was wonderful, but she also delivered during the more emotional scenes as well.
Spin-off series can be a tricky balancing act. The author needs to establish a new world that can stand on its own, while also incorporating elements of a favorite world to bridge the stories together. A Lie for a Lie is a perfect example of a spin-off done right. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the series!
Audiobook Review
Overall 4.5 stars
Performance 5+ stars
Story 4 stars
*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*
4.5 Stars!
I absolutely love Helena’s books and I think her hockey books are her best and this book did not disappoint. I was not sure what to expect going into this book besides it was a spin off of the Puck series. I am glad that I was pleasantly surprised with the storyline. Lainey and Rook story is a second chance romance with a twist. They meet in by chance on their way to Alaska for extended vacations and soon find that they are staying pretty close to each other. I loved how although they were opposites they were instantly drawn to each other. I loved how they had time to get to know each other with no one else in the equation. I loved how Lainey had been through a lot and she was navigating through life inspite of it all. I loved how Rook was so protective of her and goal was to make her feel safe.
The first half of the book was great but the second half was outstanding. Lainey and Rook grew and matured in their time apart. The story draws you in and takes you on an emotional journey. As a read I was consumed by the story, I swooned quite often, and there was some laughing of course. I loved the cameos of the Puck gang. Great story. Another must read by Helena!
A Lie for a Lie is a fun and sexy second-chance contemporary romance. Rook is confident and a reformed player, and Lainey is somewhat of a sweet, nervous and naive type. They say opposites attract and that was definitely the case for this couple. I enjoyed the way they met and the setting of the story in the first half of the book. It was just the two of them and I really liked how their relationship developed. RJ was helpful and very protective of Lainey. But he also saw that she was strong, determined and fierce when she didn’t herself. These two characters complimented each other perfectly. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer together, and it definitely had some swoon-worthy moments.
However, all good things must come to an end, and especially if you lied about things. When they are reunited a year later, RJ needs to do a lot of groveling and prove that he has the best intentions, and that he deserves another chance. In this past year Lainey grew immensely as a character, she still had her sweetness but she wasn’t as naive as she was a year ago. I loved seeing this growth in her. I love second-chance romances, so I enjoyed this one a lot. What I loved the most was the personality of the characters, and the love they had for each other. There was no unnecessary drama, and the pacing of everything was great. A Lie for a Lie was another great romance novel by Helena Hunting, and I definitely need to read her other books I haven’t yet.
A Lie for A Lie has to be the authors best book yet as I read it with a permanent smile on my face from start to finish and really didn’t want it to end! I enjoyed it wholeheartedly!
The whole storyline had my attention and the characters were just beautiful both in their own right!
RJ or Rook was the most swoonworthy, charming man but also he has an absolute heart of gold! He trumps so many book boyfriends for me and I just fell in love with him!
Lainey is a woman trying to be more independent and when she meets RJ in a rather funny way, needless to say their story is definitely something incredibly special!
I feel like this book could be made into a romance movie, thats how much this book became special to me. Its all about a love story that captures your heart and this book has it in spades!
A definite must read and one of my top reads of 2019!!
„I know we weren’t together long. And maybe we never talked about it being anything beyond a fling, but I wanted it to be more.”
I haven’t read this book… I devoured it! The moment I found out that Rookie would get his own story, I couldn’t control my excitement. But I never expected that I would be so flooded with emotions after this read! Although A Lie for a Lie still contains some of Helena Hunting’s typical humor, it’s also imbued with sensitivity and tenderness. This second chance romance warmed my heart and made me swoon!
Rook Bowman, captain of Chicago’s NHL hockey team and notorious playboy, was a bit exhausted with the fame and puck bunnies. So when he accidentally met Lainey, who has no idea who he is, he was instantly smitten. It was refreshing and amazing to find somebody, who liked him for who he is, not for his money or stats. They spent some cozy moments in Alaska together and Rookie never got over her. Now, a year later, fate brought her back on his path. But how can he convince her that he deserves a second chance, after withholding information about who he really is? Can he convince her that everything you can read about him is out of date? And how he’ll take the fact that Lainey has her own secret? Maybe a year is not a long break, but after that time Rook and Lainey need to get to know each other again. Especially after the changes that took place during these 12 months…
The bigger they are, the harder they fall- that phrase holds so much truth! I just knew from the start that Rookie’s story will be great and that he’ll need to work hard when his woman will come along. But what Helena Hunting did, that was EPIC! Rook is so much more than ladies man and party animal we thought he was. He can be so thoughtful, caring and loving! I can’t count how many times I have swooned over this guy. I have also a big girl-crush on Lainey. She’s a strong and confident woman, who has gone through some hard times, but didn’t let that impact her life. She’s brave, courageous and independent. Most important- she doesn’t care about the privileges from being with a hockey star. She just wants the charming man she met in Alaska.
I loved this story! A Lie for a Lie is touching and sweet second chance romance with emotional note. Helena’s writing got me totally hooked and I was instantly enamoured with characters and the storyline. I’m also delighted with appearance of the characters from beloved Pucked series! This spin-off series started with a bang and I can’t wait for more!
5 star Review A Lie For A Lie (All In #1) by Helena Hunting
I loved the Pucked series so when I heard there was a spin off series planned I was so excited and couldn’t wait to read.
RJ needs to escape the chaos of Chicago and being an NHL team captain; where better to go than Alaska? Imagine his delight when he meets Lainey and realises she has no idea who he is.
When their passionate interlude ends abruptly, neither expect to meet again since they neglected to swap contact information. However fate has other plans for RJ and Lainey.
Will Lainey be able to forgive RJ his lies, or will she run from the feelings he brings out? Will Rook forgive Lainey?
A Lie For A Lie is a second chance at love story which ticked all the boxes for me as RJ and Lainey’s story unfolded.
The chemistry between RJ and Lainey was intense, almost electrifying. I fell hard and fast for RJ, Ms. Hunting has given us a story that had me falling head over heels for him. I also loved how feisty, sassy Lainey is, she was a fabulous match for RJ.
I love Ms. Hunting’s style of writing, she ensures that her characters are not “perfect”and I found it easy to relate to RJ and Lainey.
From start to finish Helena Hunting wove together a story that I simply could not put down, she had me totally engrossed and staying up way past my bedtime. This was an entertaining, at times humorous story with angst, secrets and lies.
I cannot wait to learn more about these characters and I look forward to reading more in the aeries.
I received an copy of this book through the publisher via Netgalley
Wow, this book titillates the reader in all the right places! I tried putting Hunting’s latest offering down at daft o’clock but to no avail ‘cause it’s far, far too addictive. And although it’s a romantic comedy, the author’s take on a delicate subject gave the story such a sensitive touch it got me sniffling into my pillow more than once. Hunting’s gone back to ice hockey with this stand-alone spinoff from the highly popular Pucked Series which also happens to be a sport I adore. A Lie for a Lie is a marvellous read in the respect that most of the characters are lovely, relatable and makes you want to be with them.
“Thank you for being my personal support person and human teddy bear.”
Chapter one and we’re in the now, RJ crossing paths with the gorgeous and timid Lainey. He picks up on her intense discomfort, calms her down and is so understanding, my heart melted. Ahh, but not being entirely frank with her could just come back and bite him where it hurts the most. Hmm…where could that be you may ask! I loved the way Hunting set the foundation of the plot so quickly, had me on edge and provoked all the feels at a page-turning pace.
‘There were a lot of women in a very short span of time. Sometimes more than one at a time. It was bad. I’m not proud.’
Well-known as a lady’s man, RJ’s got it all. NHL team captain, his drop-dead gorgeous looks attract the puck bunnies like bees to a honeypot. Not happy with the way he’s been running his personal life, he wants to escape their advances and be that normal kinda guy for a while. I really and truly liked RJ. Obviously well off, he never flaunts it. His teammates respect him, he gets on with their women, loves their kids and has a fabulous rapport with his siblings. In fact, I couldn’t find fault with him yet when he doesn’t come clean with Lainey, I could have strangled him.
“…And even if she’s willing to talk to me, once she realizes what else I left out she’ll probably never want to speak to me again.”
Lainey won be over at the drop of a hat. Her contrasting traits which funnily enough don’t clash, are so well-described that I ended up rooting for her throughout the read. To begin with, she comes across as quite nerdy. Her love of marine life habits is the reason she’s taken a trip to Alaska but she never expected her time there would evolve as it did. Everything goes wrong only to be righted. However, what would happen leaves confusion in its wake. Even though she’s shy, she’d learnt to trust RJ and thought he had the same feelings for her as she had for him. Indeed, Hunting gave the story a powerful edge with all the goings-on and in the process, my attention didn’t waver for a minute.
“My respect for you just went up a few notches. I had no idea you were into the nerdy chicks.”
“She’s not nerdy,”
Although the book isn’t split into two parts, there’s definitely a before and after-feel about it. The after hit me just as strongly since everything comes pouring out. And believe you me, I wasn’t the only person who was left stunned, shocked, even dazzled! I can’t say anything regarding the outcome of them finding each other again but wow, Hunting most certainly nipped it in the bud with her brilliant story-telling.
‘The man I was with in Alaska was kind and sweet and down-to-earth. But this . . . it’s completely different. And this is what his life is really like.’
Despite the team camaraderie and family ambience bowling me over, I had very mixed feelings for Lainley’s parents and saluted her when she stood up for herself. The title also gave me food for thought and I’d love you to decide for yourselves if not telling the truth or its omission can be considered a lie. In this case, distorting the truth and letting it slide was a lot easier than finding that perfect moment to confess. Of course, the big question here is will they forgive each other. I can’t tell you how much I loved RJ and Lainey’s story overflowing with tenderness, surprises and plenty of smiles. Bravo Hunting!