My When Alec Met Evie Book Review - No Spoilers

Plot Summary

When Alec Met Evie by Jenny Proctor is a sweet, small-town hockey romance set in Harvest Hollow, North Carolina. Evie, recently divorced and venturing out on her own with a four-month-old baby, Juno, moves south for a new start and a job prospect. She arrives to find her rental house flooded—her best friend’s older brother, Alec, a pro hockey player and captain of the Appies, steps in offering her a place to stay. Old crushes and new feelings start to bubble up as Evie and Alec spend time together under one roof, navigating complicated pasts and figuring out if friendship could be something more. Evie’s feeling vulnerable starting over, and Alec is wrestling with an injury that may threaten his career. Both must decide if it's worth the risk to fall for someone when life already feels like it's at a crossroads.

Why I Love This Book

I love how this story puts two flawed, hopeful people together at just the right moment in their lives. The gentle humor and small-town warmth always make me smile. Alec feels like a real person—tough and responsible on the ice, but soft and steady in private, especially when it comes to Evie and her daughter. The slow build of attraction—full of banter, vulnerability, and hesitation—feels believable and sweet. Juno adds heart to every scene; seeing Alec care for her melted me. The book never rushes; instead, it lets grief, healing, and hope take their time. I appreciate that Evie isn’t perfect—she’s making mistakes, learning to trust, and finding confidence again. Alec’s worry about his knee, what comes after hockey, and whether he wants to settle down gives his character real depth. I closed the book wishing I lived in Harvest Hollow and had these friends cheering me on.

Who Will Like This Book

If you love sweet, closed-door romances with strong found family vibes, you’ll enjoy this. It’s perfect if you’re craving something cozy with real emotional stakes but not high-angst drama. Anyone who loves the best friend’s brother trope, adorable baby moments, and hockey without a ton of on-ice drama will find so much to like. The story is gentle and comforting with just enough banter and chemistry to keep it fun. If you’re sensitive to topics like divorce or parental absence, keep in mind those are part of the background, but everything is handled with hope and kindness.

⚠️ Trigger warning: Contains references to divorce, an absent father, and career injuries.

Tagged As

hockey romance, sweet romance, closed-door romance, best friend’s brother, small town, single mom, found family, friends to lovers, slow burn, emotional healing, sports romance, comfort read, contemporary romance, dual pov, mature themes, series, light angst, cozy romance, parental themes, new beginnings, indie romance, kindle unlimited

Steam Level

This is a closed-door, sweet romance. Intimacy is all about heartfelt moments, hand-holding, and kisses—the story keeps the steam on the page but not explicit. It’s perfect when you want warmth and chemistry without spice.