Stand and Defend by Sloane St. James Book Review
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Looking for a close proximity, ex-best friend’s fiance romance book trope? You’ve come to the right place!
I recently saw a reel about Sloane St. James newest book with all the romantic tropes I loved so I decided to jump in.
Sloane St. James is as new author to me, and I’m so glad I found her! Stand and Defend is one of my new favorite sports romance books!
I read this book on Kindle Unlimited and these are my honest opinions.
Jordana
I live my life head over heart and never rock the boat. Which is how I wound up engaged to Bryan Davenport—the biggest mistake I ever made. We were a power couple, but no one knew how cruel he could be behind closed doors. When I decide to leave, my fiancé shows just how ruthless he can be and sends me running to the last person I expected: his best man.
Camden Teller is a cocky, selfish, womanizing, daredevil—and my new favorite person. Who knew a bad boy would be such a good influence? For the first time, I’m breaking rules and living unapologetically. Our unexpected camaraderie quickly morphs into a no-strings arrangement, which I don’t mind, because even though he’s become my closest friend, he’ll never be my type.
Camden
I may be the new Minnesota Lakes hockey captain, but I’ll always be Banksy on the ice. Over my career, I’ve been in countless fights, being protective is part of my nature, so when the beautiful Jordana Landry shows up with nowhere to go, I don’t hesitate. Unfortunately, she’s also sophisticated, polite, and educated, which would be fine, except I’ve got a corruption kink.
The more we hangout, the closer we get—and the harder it is to resist each other. Until we stop resisting. I never sleep with the same woman twice, but once with her will never be enough. However, it’s not long before I realize she’s not as innocent as she lets on. Jordan says I’m not her type… but she’s exactly mine.
Please check trigger warnings before reading.
Summary: Stand and Defend by Sloane St. James
Jordan’s world came crashing down when she discovered her fiance was cheating on her with none other than her maid of honor. Heartbroken and feeling betrayed, she made the courageous decision to call off the wedding.
In the midst of her turmoil, Jordan found unexpected solace in the company of Camden, her ex-fiance’s best friend.
Camden, known as a charming hockey player with a reputation as a playboy, surprised everyone by being the rock Jordan desperately needed. Seeing her hurt, he opened his home to her, providing a safe haven from the chaos of her shattered relationship.
As Jordan and Camden spent more time together, their chemistry continues to grow, until they both give in.
My Thoughts: Stand and Defend by Sloane St. James
Sloane St. James is a fresh new author on the scene, and let me tell you, she’s already making waves! Despite being a newcomer to the writing world, she’s proven herself to be a talent to watch out for.
I dove into Stand and Defend, not even starting with the first in the series because the premise of this one grabbed me from the get-go. Her storytelling had me hooked from start to finish.
Jordan found herself trapped in a toxic relationship with her fiance, Bryan. Like so many others in similar situations, she was trapped in a cycle of isolation and manipulation, unaware of the person she was becoming.
It wasn’t until things took a turn for the worse, and Bryan’s true colors showed, that Jordan realized the gravity of her situation.
When Jordan decided she needed to escape her toxic ex, Camden was there without hesitation.
As they spent more time together, Jordan and Camden’s connection deepened, and sparks began to fly. Soon enough, their friendship took a turn into the realm of friends with benefits situationship.
I loved the inside jokes with apple pies, pumpkin muffins, and how Jordan always insists that he’s not her type.
The story’s pacing kept me engaged throughout, and I particularly loved Camden’s consistent support and respectful treatment of Jordan.
But what truly stood out was Jordan’s badassery when she decided to take revenge on Bryan. With Camden’s help, Jordan stood strong and faced Bryan head-on, refusing to be a victim any longer.
It was empowering to witness her resilience and self-empowerment in action.
Final Thoughts: Stand and Defend by Sloane St. James
Overall, I highly recommend adding Stand and Defend by Sloane St. James to your TBR list.
If you’re into stories featuring a golden retriever-like main male character, a protective playboy who falls hard, and strong AF heroines, then this book is definitely for you!
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