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Xavier Neal
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Can't Block My Love (A Grumpy Sunshine Forced Proximity Fake Dating Hockey Romance) (The Hockey Gods Series Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Xavier Neal (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 out of 5 stars 894 ratings
From USA TODAY BESTSELLING author Xavier Neal comes a laugh-out-loud, college sports, second chance romance with a twist!

He’ll do anything to save his college hockey career…even if it means pretending to be her boyfriend.

He's the troublemaking, foul-mouth hockey goalie who always gets what he wants.

She's the shy, anxiety-filled, dog lover who just so happens to be the key to him playing this season.

Add in striking a win-win deal that includes a fake relationship and these two college students have one complicated year ahead of them.

TROPE CHECK
College Romance
Grumpy x Sunshine
Opposites-Attract
Forced Proximity
Enemies-to-Lovers

(New edits, new content, new updates - May 2024)
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  1. Book 1 of 6
    The Hockey Gods Series
  2. Print length
    437 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Accessibility
    Learn more
  5. Publication date
    October 21, 2019
  6. File size
    2.9 MB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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There are 6 books in this series.

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From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Can't Block My Love is sowell written, so enjoyable and addictive. I'm excited to read more about theseHockey Gods!!" - Kathy Coopmans, USA Today Best SellingAuthor

"Can't Block My Love by Xavier Neal is a new adult, elite college romance full of witty banter and plenty of steam! You don't want to miss this one!" - Hayley Faiman author of the Notorious Devils Series

"Getcomfortable because this is a fast paced college rom-com that packs one hell ofa punch!" -Weet Weet's Bookshelf

"I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak." - ReneeEntress Blog

"The book boyfriend youdidn't know you needed." - Sim G, Goodreads Reviewer

From the Author

Standalones

Cinderfella (YA Contemporary Romance)
The Gamble (Romantic Comedy)
Part of The List (Contemporary Romance)
Walking Away (Contemporary Ménage Romance)
Can't Match This (Romantic Comedy)
Hike, Hike Baby (Romantic Comedy)
Baewatch (Romantic Comedy)
Sleigh Bride (Holiday Romantic Comedy)
Aleatory (Contemporary Age-Gap Romance)
Picnic Perfect (Romantic Comedy)
Eden (Dark/Taboo Romance)
Baby Got Pack (Romantic Comedy)
Waiting (Contemporary Age-Gap Romance)

SERIES:
(COMPLETED)

Senses Series (Friends-to-Lovers Romance)
Duched Series (Royal Romance)
The Bro Series (Erotic Romance)
Private Series (Romantic Suspense)
The Bennett Duet (Mafia/Crime Romance)
The Love Duet (Contemporary Romance)
The Compassion Series (Contemporary Romance)
The Free Series (Romantic Comedy)

SERIES:
(OPEN)

The Hockey Gods Series (College/Sports Romance)
Dalvegan Dragons Series (Pro Hockey Romance)
Adrenaline Series (Romantic Suspense)
Prince of Tease Series (Erotic Romance)
The Just Series (Contemporary Romance)
Must Love Series (Romantic Comedy)
Hollywood Exchange Series (Romantic Comedy)
The Culture Blind Series (Contemporary Romance)
Camelot Misfits Series (MC Romance)
Synful Syndicate Series (Mafia/Organized Crime Romance)
Haworth Enterprises Series (Romantic Suspense)
The Draak Legacy Series (Paranormal Romance)
The Debt Tales Series (Dark Romance)

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07ZFZCJ4H
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 21, 2019
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.9 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 437 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 1 of 6 ‏ : ‎ The Hockey Gods Series
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 out of 5 stars 894 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Xavier Neal

Xavier Neal

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Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

Xavier Neal is a best-selling romance author who enjoys hopping from sub genre to sub-genre like a game of Hopscotch she can't resist.

In between writing, she loves to read (everything from romance to self improvement books), watch movies (old and new), eat too much Tex-Mex (her Chuy's t-shirt collection is out of control), and watch AHL hockey games LIVE (preferably against the glass whenever possible).

She currently resides happily in Texas with her bearded husband "Lumberjack”.

Website link: https://www.xavierneal.com/

Newsletter link: https://bit.ly/XNNLSUB

Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
894 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book entertaining and well-written, particularly enjoying the banter between characters and the believable dramatic climax. They praise the chemistry between Ren and Poppy as beautiful, and appreciate the character development, with one review highlighting the supporting characters' crazy drama. Customers describe the book as heart-rendering and realistic, with one review noting how the characters showcase their emotions and flaws with dexterity. The language receives mixed reactions from customers.

Select to learn more

EnjoymentStory qualityCharacter developmentAdorabilityChemistrySweetnessHeartfelt contentLanguage
54 customers mention "Enjoyment"54 positive0 negative

Customers find the book entertaining and funny, enjoying the banter between characters, with one customer noting it ranges from humorous to heartfelt moments.

"...This is the first book in The Hockey Gods series and it is an entertaining read that will have you laughing as you get to know Ren and Poppy...." Read more

"...That being said, This is Ren and Poppi's story. A great book from beginning to end...." Read more

"...But overall it was a fun book and I'd recommend it...." Read more

"...The story is filled with learning to be humbled, appreciating hard work, and being your authentic self...." Read more

50 customers mention "Story quality"46 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the story of this hockey romance, describing it as an adorable love story with a dramatic climax that is always believable.

"...There are some harsh language and racy scenes but the story is interesting. I really enjoyed this fantastic sports romance novel." Read more

"...The story was good and would have been better if there wasn't so much cursing and sexual domination. They both took away from the story line...." Read more

"...of what to expect (but you get more) I took long to find this terrific author and I can't stay away. Can't wait for the next installment." Read more

"I really enjoyed the pacing of this book and the overall storyline was great...." Read more

15 customers mention "Character development"15 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, with one mentioning the supporting characters are hilarious with some crazy drama, and another noting that Poppy is the perfect heroine.

"...Poppy is such a down to earth character and the fact that she knew Ren when he was young, before hockey was really cool...." Read more

"...Getting two POVs adds such an amazing depth to the characters and helped me connect on an intense level with them...." Read more

"...Her character was great too as she learned to stand up for herself. These two were absolutely perfect for each other as they helped each other grow...." Read more

"...Poppy is the most perfect heroine. Flawed, damaged, yet independent and loyal. Her quirks make her even more relatable...." Read more

13 customers mention "Adorability"13 positive0 negative

Customers find the book adorable, describing it as a beautifully crafted treat that contrasts nicely throughout.

"...and Poppy spend together, they are each growing and it is just beautiful to watch...." Read more

"...Ren is the big man on campus: hockey star, rich, and great looking; but his attitude stinks...." Read more

"...This was not one of those situations. Awkward and adorable Poppy finally gets the chance to be with the boy she’s loved since childhood...." Read more

"...Poppy is kookie and cute. I'm not usually one for virgin fmcs, but I enjoyed her...." Read more

12 customers mention "Chemistry"12 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the chemistry between Ren and Poppy, describing it as beautiful and amazing, with one customer noting it's combustible.

"...Their chemistry’s was fantastic and I liked how you started seeing his armor crack little by little, but only with Poppy...." Read more

"...It added so many layers to the story. Their chemistry was on point. I loved their wit and sass with each other...." Read more

"...Poppy and Ren were great together. Ren was a jerk at the beginning of this book. He was an entitled rich kid, who had a reputation to uphold...." Read more

"...Ren and Poppy are absolute dynamite together. Their chemistry is combustible...." Read more

11 customers mention "Sweetness"11 positive0 negative

Customers find the book sweet and delicious, with one customer specifically mentioning the cinnamon roll character Poppy, while another describes drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows.

"...Poppy is kind, caring, and has a heart of gold...." Read more

"...I greedily devoured every word of this delicious and beautifully crafted treat...." Read more

"...This was a sweet and hilarious hockey romance that will lighten your day...." Read more

"...I can't tell you how many times I was howling with laughter. It was sweet, heart-rendering and sexy...." Read more

10 customers mention "Heartfelt content"10 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the heartfelt content of the book, describing it as heart-rendering and realistic, with one customer noting how the characters showcase their emotions and flaws with dexterity.

"...pens complex characters who are realistic, showcasing their emotions and flaws with such dexterity and this book is just another to add to your shelf." Read more

"...You will see how she weaves stories for her readers. This book has all the feels and also pulls on your heartstrings...." Read more

"...Poppy is kind, caring, and has a heart of gold...." Read more

"...way with her characters, she writes them so 3 dimensional, they are so life-like. Her books are always well thought out and articulate...." Read more

9 customers mention "Language"6 positive3 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the language in the book, with some appreciating the dialogue and banter, while others find it too profane.

"...I enjoyed the story so much. Author Xavier Neal’s spice scenes are written quite well, too...." Read more

"...There are some harsh language and racy scenes but the story is interesting. I really enjoyed this fantastic sports romance novel." Read more

"...and arguments immediately and healthily which is a wonderful model of mature communication...." Read more

"...I really enjoyed the long sections of dialogue between them even more than the sexy times (which were pretty lit)...." Read more

Which pill will you choose
5 out of 5 stars
Which pill will you choose
Remington Ronald Rutledge the 3rd is a very talented college sophomore hockey goal tender. He's also a huge jerk who thinks he can get away with anything! Now his play time has been jeopardized unless he agrees to do community service at the local animal shelter. The manager at the local shelter/pet store Poppy Diesel the dog whisperer is now going to be in charge of Rutledge's service time. Poppy is kind, caring, and has a heart of gold. But Poppy and Ren as she knows him have a past, one that haunts her and that he has completely erased from his memories. With a deal in place, a lot of competitive banter and the rebuilding of a great friendship can these two find their way through the matrix? I have voluntarily left this review.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Renegade
    5.0 out of 5 stars Can't Block My Love - The Hockey Gods Series #1
    Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2025
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    In order to keep his position on the team, hockey player Ren Rutledge must perform mandatory community service at the animal shelter. Poppy Diesel is a childhood friend who works at the animal shelter and Ren doesn’t recognize her at first. Poppy is a shy introvert who prefers animals to human. Ren is a playboy hockey player who only cares about himself. As Ren and Poppy continue to work closely, they develop a romantic relationship. There are some harsh language and racy scenes but the story is interesting. I really enjoyed this fantastic sports romance novel.
    Helpful
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  • Linda Cope
    4.0 out of 5 stars Good story, too many F words
    Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I don't think I've read the "F" word so many times before in a book! The story was good and would have been better if there wasn't so much cursing and sexual domination. They both took away from the story line. I have enjoyed Ms. Neal's stories even with the detailed sex, especially when the reader could connect it to the love between the characters.
    This one was over the top, a bit too much. Perhaps this is how young people connect today but I hope not. Perhaps this is how hockey players talk to each other, but I would hope they do better by their wives and girlfriends.
    Both Hootie and Ren have relationship problems. Hootie doesn't do well in social situations, has never been on a date or to a party and is a virgin. Ren wants acceptance by his rich father but will never get it, so he abuses the father's wealth and makes hockey his proving ground. Even though he would rather be in English Lit class or reading. Yet he downplays his intelligence while with others. He hides behind the facade of being a jock, sexual jerk, and just an all-around POS. The development of their relationship is the basis for the story. It's' a good one, just wish is didn't have so many "F" bombs.
    Helpful
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  • S. Abrams
    5.0 out of 5 stars Ren and Poppy - Laying it all out on the ice
    Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    4.7 stars

    This is the first book in The Hockey Gods series and it is an entertaining read that will have you laughing as you get to know Ren and Poppy. It starts a little slow but as the pages turn, the witty banter between the two shines through. Ren is that man who has it all. He comes from money and can basically get himself out of a fire if he throws money at it or makes a phone call to the right person to make everything go away. Poppy is more of an introvert who works at a pet palace and is charged with finding forever homes for her charges. The two have a history and when fate puts them together again, the drama begins. From the beginning, Ren acts like a horse’s posterior and it is difficult to like him until his coach takes him down a few pegs and makes him do things out of his comfort zone. Poppy takes warming up to as she needs to come out of her shell. In some ways their dynamic is reminiscent of a reverse of the film Drive Me Crazy. However, the more time Ren and Poppy spend together, they are each growing and it is just beautiful to watch. Like many of Ms. Neal’s books, she pens complex characters who are realistic, showcasing their emotions and flaws with such dexterity and this book is just another to add to your shelf.
    Helpful
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  • Bloody Blogger Jo
    5.0 out of 5 stars Ren and Poppi be ready!!
    Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I highly recommend this book. Xavier Neal is an award-winning author. You will see how she weaves stories for her readers. This book has all the feels and also pulls on your heartstrings. Not afraid to also show any flaws and how they may resolve them makes me warm and Xavier an advocate for people who may find similar flaws. I applaud her for being a pioneer, using her Phenomenal talent to reach out and inspire. That being said, This is Ren and Poppi's story. A great book from beginning to end. I read it in one seating because, well, I needed to know what happened next. Treat yourself to this great book, you won't be disappointed. I don’t do spoilers because it takes away from the story but the blurb gives you an idea of what to expect (but you get more) I took long to find this terrific author and I can't stay away. Can't wait for the next installment.
    Helpful
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  • Jackie
    3.0 out of 5 stars Liked it but needed more groveling
    Reviewed in the United States on March 21, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I really enjoyed the pacing of this book and the overall storyline was great. I felt like Ren could have been a little easier to like... How fatshaming was a bit uncomfortable. But overall it was a fun book and I'd recommend it.
    Spoiler: I needed way more grovel... After the terrible things he said he needed to put in way more work, even with the bff helping his case. That alone sent that from 4 to 3 stars.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Tara Peters
    4.0 out of 5 stars Great book
    Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    In all honesty, I didn’t like Ren very much at the beginning and of the book. He didn’t give off any vibes that there was much good in him, but I loved being proved incorrect. Poppy was almost too sweet and innocent to be believed, but somehow it worked. Get them together and the sparks flew.

    Ren is the big man on campus: hockey star, rich, and great looking; but his attitude stinks. When his coach threatens to bench him because of his behavior off the field, he gets irate and acts childish. His only hope of playing is helping at the animal shelter, which he promptly manipulates his way out of. Poppy is the person who has to sign off on his work hours, and she has had a crush on him for years.

    Their chemistry’s was fantastic and I liked how you started seeing his armor crack little by little, but only with Poppy. It was also nice to see Poppy grow a backbone. They truly brought out the best in each other. Just when everything is looking fantastic for them, it comes crashing down. Whether he man’s up and figures out how to fix things, their relationship might be over for good.

    I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for more from this group of friends. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
    Helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love it so much I read it twice
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 25, 2022
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This is easily a comfort read for me I love the characters, the plot and the story as a whole. I love Polly she is authentically herself she has a little bit of growth which is needed but she is a great and loveable character overall. Ten is complex but still loveable he's a complete idiot and ass at some point but he learns and grows this book is fun, funny and also hot and heavy is some parts. Great book from a great author.
    Report
  • Danielle
    5.0 out of 5 stars Loved every moment
    Reviewed in Germany on January 5, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This was my first Xavier Neal Novel and it definitely won’t be my last one. Especially because this GAME has only just begun 🤩

    This is a friends to lovers romance, but also not. Because there is another stage in between. You’d think it would be enemies, but I‘d call it „friends to strangers to accomplices to lovers”
    🤣 but that still wouldn’t give you the full picture. 🤭

    The sass between Ren and Poppy, HEAVEN!! 🤩
    The reasons for being strangers, not so much. 😔
    Also the reason they become accomplices, might not be the best move, but it’s definitely on both of them. 😅

    I’m not spoiling anything, you really need to read this series, I know I’m reading the next one up, right away.

    I love the way Xavier has brought in a lot of Humor, but still had me thinking about the deep subjects of this story.

    🌟 A must read 🌟 from me 🫶🏻
    Report
  • emjbookshelf
    4.0 out of 5 stars Sports Romance
    Reviewed in Australia on February 19, 2022
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I love a really good sports romance and this didn't disappoint. This has been on my TBR for a while now and this is my first time reading the work of Xavier Neal and I would definetely read more. If you are like me you are going to love Poppy and Ren, well he will grow on you, he is someone you will love to hate .
    Report
  • Bookkraves
    4.0 out of 5 stars Damn Cute
    Reviewed in Canada on January 19, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Ren and Poppy are too funny. This book will have you angry mintue and swooning in the next. This interracial sports romantic comedy is sweet, with great characters that will have you in your feelings.
    Report
  • Karja26PageAddict
    4.0 out of 5 stars Awesome read
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 13, 2020
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Ren is so full of himself, I just wanted to strangle him. Poppy is an absolute sweetheart and quirky, total opposite to Ren. It was so sweet to see them each bring out the different sides of themselves; Ren into a caring person and Poppy into someone more confident in herself.

    This is a first read for me by this author, and I can't wait to read the rest of her work.
    Report

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