If you’re looking for a cozy, low-stress read to curl up with this weekend, Bree Hayden’s Call the Shots might be exactly what you need. While it’s technically categorized as a hockey romance, it offers a refreshing change of pace for readers who prefer the “romance” over the “sport”
The Vibe: Sweet, Simple, and Stress-Free
One of the most appealing aspects of Call the Shots is its accessibility. It is part of a larger series, but don’t let that deter you if you’re new to Hayden’s world. It functions perfectly as a standalone novel you can jump right in without feeling like you’ve missed out on crucial backstories or inside jokes from previous books. I know that because thats exactly what I did, but I’ll be honest, it made me want to go back and read the others.
The story itself is a “nice, happy, easy read.” There’s no soul-crushing angst or overly complicated subplots here. Instead, Hayden delivers a smooth, feel-good narrative that flows effortlessly from start to finish.
Character-Driven Charm
The protagonists in Call the Shots are refreshingly simple and likeable. They aren’t bogged down by dark, tortured pasts; they are just relatable people navigating their feelings. Because they are so easy to root for, you find yourself invested in their happiness early on.
The Verdict: Comfort Over Complexity
Is the ending a surprise? Not particularly. Like the best comfort reads, you can see the likely outcome from a mile away. However, the predictability doesn’t detract from the story at all. In fact, it adds to the book’s charm. There is a certain joy in watching two people you genuinely like find their way to a “happily ever after,” even if you knew they’d get there eventually.
If you want a book that feels like a warm hug and doesn’t demand too much of your emotional energy, put Call the Shots on your TBR list.
One More Chapter 