Can't wait for more of this series!

After reading both series I enjoyed this story more.

Upon rereading I bumped this up to ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Loved the crossover between these two series. One thing that I felt was missing was that Zara really didn’t seem to value or care about Dave’s career at all or want to learn more about that huge part of his life.

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Method: audiobook

Rating: 4/5 stars

H rating: 4/5 - Dave. Did like him, I felt like his hesitance was understandable, but it felt like he was using it as a crutch to not be who he did end up becoming. A father.

h rating: 4/5 - Zara. Really liked her, she was so cold and closed off when I first met her, but becoming a mom felt necessary to make her character even more likable IMO.

Drama: 3/5 - Not much, but just what the whole book was about, the kiddo.

Thoughts: Super happy with this re-read via audio, I am really curious about the sister and Alec though...I might read that.

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Method: ebook
Rating: 4/5 stars
H rating: 4/5 - Dave
h rating: 4/5 - Zara
Drama: 3/5
Thoughts: Great read, love this trope. Very happy with this author.

This is Zara and the red headed hockey player's story. It's not so bad. Zara has an annoying habit of thinking she "owes" everyone and it got on my nerves. Zara and the guy whose name is currently escaping me had a fling 2 years prior to the book and she never knew his name....oh, it's Dave Beringer!...and she got PG and had a baby and then he comes back to town and find one another again. I'm very thankful that it wasn't one of those baby stories were the woman doesn't tell the man about the baby. But Zara's brothers can just fuck off with not liking Dave because he got Zara pg. It's not like he knew and took off anyway. Jeez.

I read this as part of the Brooklyn Bruisers series, not the True North series, which at some point I do plan on circling back to read.

But the second chance vacation surprise baby story between Dave and Zara was hot, funny and cute as all heck.

From the moment Zara and Dave lock eyes, I’m hooked. Their no-strings summer fling turns into a life-altering surprise when a baby enters the picture. Fast forward two years, and Dave’s back in town, ready to face the curveball life threw at him. What follows is a heartwarming, swoony journey of love, family, and second chances.

What I Loved
- The chemistry! Zara and Dave are fire together, from their banter to their deep emotional connection.
- Baby Nicole. Watching Dave fall into his role as a dad melted my heart. Daddy-daughter moments = pure magic.
- Zara’s strength. She’s tough, guarded, and fiercely independent—a relatable queen who’s learning to trust again.
- The Vermont vibes. From the orchards to the close-knit Shipley family, this setting feels cozy and alive.
- The crossover with the Brooklyn Bruisers series. Hockey + small-town romance = chef’s kiss.

Favorite Moments
- Dave meeting Nicole for the first time—so much emotion packed into one scene.
- Zara and Dave bonding over late-night talks (and a few steamy moments).
- The tension and hilarity Zara’s overprotective brothers bring to the table.

Why It’s 5 Stars
This story nails the balance between heartwarming family dynamics and sizzling romance. Zara and Dave’s growth, both individually and as a couple, feels genuine. By the end, I’m cheering for them like they’re real people.

Final Thoughts
This book is like a warm hug—comforting, addictive, and impossible to put down. Whether you’re into surprise baby stories or just love watching two people find their way back to each other, Bountiful is a winner. Seriously, don’t sleep on this one!