5 stars
“I know what I want, Evan, and it starts and ends with you.” He leans his head into mine. “I enjoy the way you make me feel. I’m not half a man.” “Because you’re not,”
THIS is the book in Toni's hockey universe I have been waiting for... and it didn't disappoint! I've been waiting for Evan Adler's story for so long, then to find out it was with Nico's Callie! Ahhhh! I loved it so much. It was perfect.

Evan is one of Shea and Elli Alder's twins and he is the more quiet and reserved Adler. He has struggled with his mental health for sometime and took a break from the NHL and is back in school. That's when he runs into Callie, who is at Bellevue for gymnastics. These two have so much in common and Evan is able to let Callie in.

Sigh. I loved these two together so much. I seriously couldn't have loved them together more. The way Toni wrote Evan's mental health journey was so inspiring. And of course I loved getting more Nico, even though he aggravated me at times. I hope Toni never quits writing these books because I can't get enough! 2022-five-stars34 s Tpagirl Loves Romance1,671 172

Saved by Love was the seventh book in the Bellevue Bullies series by Toni Aleo. Many of Aleo’s series have crossover characters but do not necessarily have to be read in order.

Evan Adler, son of Ellie and Shea Adler, (book one, Assassin series) and twin brother to Owen (book four, IceCats series) had just medically retired from the NHL for mental health reasons. He had no idea what his future would hold but he returned home to Nashville to go to school and contemplate whether he would ever return to the NHL. In the meantime, he was an RA to Bellevue Hockey boys team house and a trainer for the girls gymnastics team. Enter Callie Pearce.

Callie was the sister to Aviva (book two, IceCats series) and was currently a gymnast at Bellevue. She couldn’t believe her longtime crush was now at Bellevue and taping up her ankles.

I’ve taken a break from formal for a while, but a couple quick thoughts: Aleo unraveled a realistic perspective battling mental health and unveiled many life lessons while developing a heartfelt forever love between Evan and Callie. I loved both characters and enjoyed the developing storyline. Additionally, Aleo brought us the awesomeness that is within the Adler clan that we’ve come to expect whenever an Adler is front and center. All in all, it was a quick (read it in one sitting!) and entertaining read and I can’t wait for more! 300-399-pages genre-disability genre-erotic-ie-descriptive-sex ...more7 s Darcy13.2k 514

This book really got to me. I think even if you consider yourself a "normal" person, it's easy to sympathize with what Evan was going through. We saw a little of it in the last book, but in this one it's where Evan puts his life back together, to a new future, one without hockey. I hated how doubts would sneak their way back into his head and he had to fight them. The only good thing about it was that he had a strong team surrounding him to help him realize those doubts weren't valid. A big part of that team was Callie.

I really d how these 2 met (again) and how their relationship developed. As much as Callie helped Evan, he did the same for her. He was there to support her in all ways, even if it was keeping harsh words Nico said to him. I was glad that by the end of the book Evan showed Nico how wrong he was and that Evan and Callie were stronger than ever! They deserve all the happiness they can find!

On a side note...I loved the talk that Evan had with his dad early in the book about his struggles. Shea let him know in no uncertain terms what he felt for his son and why. Shea cemented those words later in the book when Evan finally admitted to his dad he was done with hockey, all Evan received was love and support, no condemnation at all.2022 e-book new-adult ...more4 s Nancy The book junkie2,996 10

Review to come!books-to-buy-in-english books-to-buy-in-paperback books-to-review ...more3 s Karen5,386 73

Not my favorite because it has little substance to it but it's true to the great characters driven series that we've come to love. And it deals with mental health. However, Nico got on my nerves.

I Evan's story but it's pretty basic and has a ton of sweet love filler. You may love that to read. Not my jam.3 s Cindy (BKind2Books)1,689 37

What a tender, sweet story! This is definitely one that pulls at the heartstrings. Evan is the twin brother of Owen and they were both drafted into the NHL for the same team (IceCats). However, Evan has walked away from his career due to his anxiety issues. He's returned to his Nashville home to get himself together and has returned to Bellevue to complete his degree. He hasn't walked away from sports though - he's an athletic trainer for the women's gymnastics team and is the RA for the men's hockey house. As the trainer, he's tasked with taping the gymnasts and, while most of the women seem to be tripping over themselves to get to know him better, Callie is different. She's not pushing and seems to understand that this is the way to his heart. There is a slow build to this as both characters, for different reasons, are second guessing themselves.

There's enough in here to enjoy as a standalone, *but* I think it's better read as part of the series. The Adler family dynamics are fun and even more so when you've read about Elli & Shea; Posey & Boone; Owen & Angie; and Shelli & Aiden. Nico & Aviva's story is also central to this ( see Wild Tendy) but again you get enough to understand this one without reading it first.

The theme of mental health in sports is something that has been explored in some of the author's other novels - especially Wild Tendy and All the Sauce. Again this is sensitively done and shows the enormous pressure that the drive to excel can put on athletes. Evan's anxiety has driven him off the ice and he feels a failure and a disappointment to his (Uber-accomplished) family. His journey to take care of himself is rocky and realistic. It's emotional and genuine. And Callie - because of her prior history (loss of her mother to cancer, alcoholic father) - understands his needs. Their story was sweet and tender.

Quotes I d:

We are the authors of our stories. So pick up the pen and write how incredible you are...write your future because I think it could be something pretty amazing.

We all have scars. Some show, some don't. But they are a testament to our battles - our losses and our wins.2022-urr-book-bingo phair-20222 s Angela5,780 74

4 Stars

Saved by Love is the seventh book in the Bellevue Bullies series by Toni Aleo. How have I not heard o this author before now? OMG, I have been missing out- but not anymore. After getting this little taste I will definitely be going back to read all the books she has already released on her catalogue, as well as keeping an eye out for any new releases.
This is the seventh book in a series, and even though it could be read as a standalone, I get the feeling that it would be an even better reading experience if I’d read the previous books in the series before starting on this one.
This is an emotional new adult sports romance, a bit of a friends to lovers with drama, struggles, challenges, mental health issues, banter, touching scenes, connection, finding yourself/finding purpose again, friendship, support, and also about finding love unexpectedly.
This Evan and Callie’s story. And what a story they have to tell. They are so well developed with their own unique personalities, quirks, flaws, and inner struggles- that made them so realistic, and entirely relatable. I was completely invested in them and the outcome of their story. Their story tugged at my heartstrings. Especially Evan’s struggles with his mental health.
So glad I stumbled on this author- I can’t wait to explore the rest of her work/s.
Happy reading!

Thank you, Toni Aleo!
2 s Kari Hansen10.3k 85

Evan thought that playing professional hockey on the same team as his twin brother would be a dream come true but he couldn’t have been more wrong. He is struggling emotionally and the only way to protect himself is to walk away from his career however he is worried his family won’t understand. He is now attending Bellevue and training the woman’s gymnastic team when Callie comes into his life.

Callie has overcome a difficult past, has a big heart and sees much more than most. From their first interaction they are drawn to each other in a way that neither was prepared for. Rather than being deterred by his struggles she is supportive, understanding and by his side as he reclaims the man he thought he lost.

Callie and Evan complete each other as they take us on a journey that is emotional and shows us the power of love and family.
2 s Angela Shirley819 6

Evan Alder is one of the Alder greats within the hockey world, although Evan is not as confident as his twin brother so decides for his mental health to medically retire from Hockey. With this decision done he then looks at what does he really want. So, when he decides to go to school and become a sports therapist, he has anxiety where this is the right path for him.

When he arrives he is then assigned the RA position in the Hockey house which is giving him anxiety but also he is assigned as the sports therapist to the Gymnastics team, the only problem is he has no clue about the sport, but as time goes on he does both jobs to his best ability but when a certain girl catches his eye, can he keep the job and his love life separate?

Callie has struggled to get where she is and being enrolled into one of the top schools for gymnastics, so when the new term starts in walks someone, she thought she would ever see, Evan Alder. Although Evan has been a fantasy to her for years as her “dad” plays with his twin brother, so she must walk carefully regarding pursuing him, until they see him running and then all bets are off and Callie declares to the girls that he is hers for the taking.

As Evan and Callie get closer can they maintain a relationship or will other factors knock them off course.

This is the first book I have read in this series or by the author and I can confirm that this can be read as a stand-alone book, although it has piqued my interest to read the series from the beginning and the other spin off series to see how the other characters got together.

The two main characters were brilliantly developed, and I the fact that the main male character struggled with his mental health and issues which normally are portrayed by female characters in books. The chemistry between the two of them charged off the page and was crafted beautifully within the story. I loved the way that Callie’s life starts off rough and with her sister’s sheer grit and determination to get her were she is has given Callie and great role model to follow and then with Nico’s fatherly protection it was lovely to finally see her have love in both a relationship and family. The story was well developed and flowed easily and held my interest until the end.

I look forward to reading more books by this author and hopefully add a few more book boyfriends to my ever-growing list.
ibbb-1 Jennifer 1,257 23

I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary sports romance, which was the first book I’ve read by this author, but it definitely will not be the last! I was completely hooked from page one and felt so immersed in the story that I carried on reading it late into the night. The storyline focuses on, Evan Adler who is medically retired from the NHL, and Bellevue’s star gymnast Callie Pearce. Evan feels he retired before he could live up to the ‘Adler Legacy’, but that he had to for the sake of his mental health. Having returned to his hometown, he gets a position at the University of Bellevue as the athletic trainer for the women’s gymnastics team. This is where he first meets Callie, and their connection is immediate from the moment Evan tapes Callie’s ankle.
Callie grew up with only her sister for support, which has made her be more caring to others, and so when she discovers that Evan is suffering, she’s even more determined to get to know him. The storyline flows well making this an easy read, but with plenty going on plot wise to keep me happily turning the pages. Evan and Callie are great main characters, realistic, relatable and able and I felt engaged with both of them. I d how their relationship developed throughout the book, and I felt that Evan’s mental health problems were dealt with sensitively and realistically. Although this is part of a series, I happily read it as a standalone story, however, I am now keen to read the previous stories. An enjoyable and engaging read, and one which I definitely recommend.
1 Simply Love Book Reviews7,046 852

TW: Mental health discussions, Breast cancer discussion, Sexual Assault Accusation (minor characters)

This was such a sweet story of love, strength, understanding and perseverance that dealt with the serious issue of mental health and mental health in athletes. It is book 6 Toni Aleo’s Bellevue Bullies Series. Evan and his twin Owen were drafted to the NHL right out of high school. After 2 years, Evan left the NHL because of his anxiety and his mental health. He is now a student at Bellevue University. He is learning how to be on his own and manage his anxiety and mental health. He runs in to Callie who is a champion gymnast and whose brother-in-law is the goalie for Evan’s former NHL team.

While this could be considered a slow-burn to some people, I enjoyed watching Callie and Evan grow with each other and show up for each other when it was needed. This story also touched on breast cancer with Callie’s sister from a previous book in the IceCats series by Toni. I laughed, I cried, got angry and felt all the feels. I can’t wait to see where these characters go from here in the Aleo hockey universe.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review. 1 Emily5,381 521

Evan Adler has taken a step back from his career in Hockey to become an RA and athletic trainer for the women's gymnastic team at the University of Bellevue. He doesn't plan on Callie Pearce, a Bellevue gymnast, she has a way of getting under Evan's skin. He can be candid with Callie, his worries about his mental health and future goals. Callie has a way of listening that brings a calmness to him. The only problem is Callie has someone in her life that is adamant that they not be together, can he convince everyone that she is his whole world and he will not anything to ruin that?

I really appreciated that Evan didn't give into pressure and put his mental health first, even though it scared him. I thought the emotional connections you feel while reading this one was wonderfully written. I really enjoyed this story and thought Callie was a bit quirky which brought a smile to my face.athletes-gymnastics athletes-hockey author-a ...more1 Stacie R.646 24

Evan’s story is hands down one of the most real and raw stories I think I’ve read all year. He has been through so much and watching him grow throughout this entire book was truly so freaking inspiring. I love how supportive the entire Adler clan is, and this book made me fall in love with Shea Adler all over again. The man is the most supportive and loving parent, and only wants the best for his kids.

As for Callie. I loved her feistiness so much in Nico and Aviva’s story, and I just knew she would be the perfect fit for Evan. She’s not afraid to tell it it is, but she’s so sweet and caring. The way she helps build Evan back up and supports him so wholeheartedly is beautiful.

Honestly, this entire story was so beautifully written and full of every emotion. Evan and Callie are seriously perfect. I truly don’t have enough words to describe how amazing this book is and how much I loved it. Toni absolutely nailed this story and didn’t shy away from the hard stuff. Bravo Toni, I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
1 Taz1,464 54

Evan is the one you’ve been wanting to see you succeed. His mental health is not allowing him to have his life in hockey anymore. Trying to find a new normal for him as an athletic trainer to female gymnasts definitely a different pace than NHL. Callie has always had a crush on Evan since she met him. Imagine her shock when he doesn’t recognize her. Their relationship develops naturally from friendship to something more. I adore how they were there for each other from the beginning. And it was great to see couples from the past that we all love and adore. Ahh, Shea and Elli are my favorites forever. Aleo set the book up perfectly and focused on how important mental health is to everyone.

Reviewed for My Sweet Book Escape signed-books1 Sabrina16 2

Once again Toni Aleo writing give you such great emotions while reading. Evan and Callie have become my TOP couple that I just want to never stop reading about. You truly fall in love with Callie determination and strength she has for herself and for Evan. Evan despite his struggles with his mental health is just the easiest to fall in love with and believe me boy do you want to love this man. What I found so captivating what the relationship the twin brothers Evan and Owen have for each other. The connection is just surreal and really pulls at your heartstrings. This is definitely a book you want to read and re-read again and again. Which I have already!1 Jamie Guellar474 7

Evan and Callie make me want that young love all over again! And Omg the best meet cute ever!

Toni Aleo brought everything to this story that is relatable in almost every way.

Evan, who struggles with anxiety, steps away from the ice and feels he’s failed his family when in reality made the best decision for him.
Callie, who has not had the easiest life between losing her mom and an abusive father, understands and wants to help Evan.
Ughhh these two!! Absolutely loved them! Callie and Evan are sweet, caring and so witty! Amazing story and amazing characters! 1 SaviLeeLind 597 13

Every book by this author packs a punch. This romance was heartfelt and touched upon real issues and emotions. Hockey, love, mental health, and self confidence.
Evan and Callie found strength and life in one another. Evan is mentally breaking trying to live his dreams and trying to appease others. When he has a panic attack he knows something has to change. With Callie by his side he finds strength, support, and a partner. Together they weather the storms of the sports world and everyday life .1 Melanie Helms1,076 35

Evan and Callie's book was so good! I loved it. Callie was so understanding to Evan and his mental health but as well as Evan to Callie and her past. It was fun seeing Aviva and Nico again also! As always I love seeing all the Alders but Shea kinda melted my heart and made me love him even more because the love he has for his kids is so overflowing no matter what they decide to do with their lives he's there for it! That being said I need Emery's and Quinn's books whether they are separate or together as a couple idc. LOL.1 Helen (Blissfully Bookish Besties)629

Saved by Love is the seventh book in the Belleview Bullies series, but can be read as a standalone (though I would recommend reading the whole series because it is just so good!). Callie and Evan's story is an emotional one, but it's also sweet and sexy. I love their chemistry and connection, they are a perfect match for eachother.
This is a must read series for sports romance fans!1 Mary McFarlane646 6

Ugh this book got me in the feels right away. I’m glad I took my time reading this story because I always seem to rush read her books. I loved this story so much. I can’t wait to see which kid is up next! 1 Wendy690 20

4.5 stars1 Skye Yanovsky1,177 19

so good!!

I wanted this story so bad and it was perfection. It gave me everything I wanted except giving me Evan in real life. Great storyline, emotional 1 Lyndsey Fairley1,026 4

I have not read anything by this author before and went in blind (that cover called to me).
New adult books arent my usual go to reads but will read them as they can have great stories, just not my favorite age range.
I instantly fell in love with both of these main characters and the realness and rawness of what they went through, how they are coping and how they deal day in and day out.
Throw in the autism awareness components and I was hooked (as a mom of a child with autism this was so beautifully done)

I will be reading more from this author as they have a gift of telling a story you feel to your core.1 Elana96 4

4.5 stars
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