Merrill's Books

Book Review: Those Three Little Words by Meghan Quinn

The Agitators Series:

Written by: Merrill Robinson

A heartwarming blend of slapstick humor, intense hockey romance, and that signature Meghan Quinn magic. Yup, I’m talking about “Those Three Little Words,” the second book is a gem in Meghan Quinn’s Vancouver Agitators Series series and an absolute must-read for anyone with a soft spot for Meghan Quinn’s books.

If you’ve ever found yourself diving headfirst into the world of sports romance or have a penchant for Meghan Quinn’s series, consider this your VIP ticket to literary bliss. “Those Three Little Words” not only scores big on the ice but also in the realm of heartwarming connections, hilarious banter between teammates, and characters you’ll want to invite over for game night or out for a beer. Trust me, if you’re on the lookout for a read that combines the thrill of a hockey match with the warmth of a cozy romance, you’ve just stumbled upon your next literary obsession. So lace up those imaginary skates, and let’s dive into the magic of Meghan Quinn’s latest masterpiece!

Let’s dive in…

Tropes of Those Three Little Words:

Alright, let’s dive into the delightful world of reading tropes that Meghan Quinn expertly weaves into “Those Three Little Words.” First up on the list is the binge-worthy hockey romance. Quinn takes us on a wild ride through the world of love and romance among ice and pucks, capturing the intensity of the game and infusing it with the sizzling chemistry between Penny and Eli. If you’ve ever daydreamed about a hunky hockey player who only has eyes for you, this book is about to make all those fantasies come alive.

Now, let’s talk sports romance – Meghan Quinn’s specialty. She blends the exhilarating highs of the game with the emotional rollercoaster of love – something I cannot resist. In “Those Three Little Words,” the sports and hockey backdrop isn’t just a setting; it becomes a character in itself, adding layers of excitement and tension to the already spicy mix. You’ll find yourself cheering not only for the goals on the ice but also for the victories and struggles of the hearts involved.

And speaking of hearts, let’s get into the irresistible trope of best friends’ little sister. Oh yes, Quinn dives headfirst into the forbidden allure of falling for your buddy’s sibling. In this case, it’s teammates and the additional layer of camaraderie. The forced proximity trope kicks in, making every stolen glance and secret rendezvous all the more electrifying. The tension builds, and you can’t help but root for these characters caught in a web of complicated relationships.

Fast forward to one bed – a classic setup that never fails to stir up emotions. Quinn throws her characters into this scenario, turning a simple sleeping arrangement into a catalyst for the simmering attraction between them. And of course, what’s a good romance without a dash of miscommunication? Brace yourself for those moments that make you want to yell at the characters to just talk to each other. It’s frustratingly delicious, adding layers of complexity to the already intricate dance of emotions.

In “Those Three Little Words,” Meghan Quinn artfully combines these reading tropes, creating a narrative that not only tugs at your heartstrings but also keeps you on the edge of your seat, craving more of that perfect blend of hockey, romance, and the unexpected. 

Those Three Little Words Synopsis:

I knocked up my best friend’s sister.

Since how it happened is only a small portion of the story I have to tell, I figured I would get right to the point. What came next was the real meat and potatoes.

Let’s begin with her decision to share the news with Pacey and myself together. Think about that nightmare. I was about to enter what I believed to be a marketing meeting for hockey when suddenly, my best friend and teammate is trying to leave an impression of his fist on my face because I’m the dad.

It was not pretty.

Friendships were severed, threats were exchanged, and eventually, with suitcases in tow, I was dragged to her apartment and forced to live with her in order to tend to all of her needs. You would think that wouldn’t pose a problem, considering how much I’ve been pining for the girl. False.

I just have this one chance to win my teammate back. Despite the fact that his sister is pregnant with my child, I can’t make the same mistake twice since Pacey is the only family I have.

But it’s getting harder and harder for me to resist falling in love with my best friend’s little sister despite every mood swing, every pair of pants that doesn’t fit properly anymore, and every late-night dash to get the perfect donut.

Merrill's Takeaway of Meghan Quinn's Those Three Little Words:

You won’t believe the rollercoaster ride I had with Meghan Quinn’s second book in the Vancouver Agitators Series, “Those Three Little Words”! Picture this: a hilarious mix of humor, angst, and some seriously swoon-worthy moments. I was totally smitten by Eli Hornsby – like, I wanted to reach into the pages and give that guy a big cuddle – or maybe a french kiss lol. And Penny? She’s just raw and real, you know? It’s like she could be your next-door neighbor or your best friend. 

Meghan Quinn’s hockey romance didn’t disappoint, and “Those Three Little Words” is no exception. I was pumped for it, knowing that Eli Hornsby was the guy known as a good time and how slutty he was. I knew it was going to get good with a surprise pregnancy, and once I dove in, I was completely sucked into her world. I mean, who wouldn’t be thrilled with a combo of sports romance and Meghan Quinn humor? It’s like peanut butter and jelly – a delicious match made in book heaven. Eli, our Vancouver Agitator hero, pulls the ultimate teammate faux pas by hooking up with his buddy Pacey’s sister Penny. Now, he’s on a mission to fix the mess he made, win Penny’s heart, and salvage the friendship. The chemistry between them is classic Meghan Quinn – flirty, sweet, and oh-so-sexy. Eli’s got some commitment issues, but under it all, he’s a dreamboat with charisma, banter, and a big heart. Penny is just the kind of heroine you adore, with layers that make her so relatable. The pregnancy journey is portrayed hilariously, with all the highs, lows, and hormonal rollercoasters. Watching them navigate this unexpected situation and discover their simmering attraction is both heartwarming and entertaining. Get ready for a wild ride of emotions!

Most of the book had me in stitches, a ton of fun, and exactly what I was looking for in a pregnancy romance. But, oh boy, towards the end, I had some serious anxiety moments. Pregnant or not, Penny was a handful. No limits, seriously. She made me sad a few times with the way she treated Eli. But, putting that aside, the rest of the book was a riot. I needed more bliss and less back-and-forth, though. I wanted to see Eli and Penny just basking in happiness!

As things got serious, Penny and Eli’s lack of communication and jumping to conclusions got a bit frustrating, but they eventually figured it out. Watching Eli and Penny fall in love was everything – sweet, fun, sexy, and touching. Especially Eli, with his complicated past making it challenging for him to understand and express love. Trust me, it’s a wild journey, but totally worth it!

Be sure to read my review of the rest of the Vancouver Agitators Series 

Also, be sure to check out my blog post on the reading order for The Vancouver Agitators Series.
quote from Those Three Little Words by Meghan Quinn

Favorite Quotes:

I learned from a young age that life is short, and you have to fucking enjoy every second of it. So my rule is to say yes.

You can use my lotion that’s on the nightstand,” she says. Oh great, the lotion that makes me horny just from the smell of it. Awesome. Thumbs up.

You will not be walking this journey alone, Penny.

Does it really hurt that bad? Or are men just weak?

I ate an apple

It’s making me want . . . more. I want to be a better man. I want to be an amazing father. I want to be an equal partner in this parenting adventure. And fuck me . . . I want Penny.

This woman, this baby, I’m not just living with them, going through the stages of the pregnancy. They feel like mine. Like they belong with me, in my life.

Because I am fairly certain I wish I could be the woman to do that for him. To love him.

I want you to be mine, Penny. If I fuck you, right now, that means you’re mine.

I needed her hug like I needed my next breath.

About Meghan Quinn:

#1 Amazon and USA Today Bestselling Author, wife, adoptive mother, and peanut butter lover. Author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance, Meghan Quinn brings readers the perfect combination of heart, humor, and heat in every book.

Check out Meghan Quinn’s newest releases and updates on her website.

portrait of the author Meghan Quinn