Sparring Partners by Ali Ryecart

Enemies at first sight, lovers at first kiss…

Manager of an exclusive spa hotel, Luca Graham thrives in the sleek world of high-end hospitality. His life is ordered and precise, until a rain-soaked run-in rocks his carefully cultivated universe to its core.
Blunt and uncompromising, local farmer Adrian Hardy has a past as stormy as his dark, brooding eyes. A stark contrast to Luca’s polished exterior, his mere presence is enough to make the hotelier’s buttoned-up collar feel too tight.
Every encounter is fraught with barely concealed animosity. Yet, beneath the bristling tension, their chemistry is off the charts. When these opposites finally collide, the explosion leaves them burning for more.
As their connection deepens and grows, each is forced to face hard truths about himself. Luca, dedicated to his glittering career, begins to question the sacrifices he’s made for success. Adrian, haunted by past betrayal, must confront whether he has the courage to trust his heart one more time.
The stakes are stripped down and real: Can these sparring partners take a risk and open themselves up to love, or do they live the rest of their lives in regret for what could have been?

**Expect to find enemies to lovers, small town, opposites attract, a touch of hurt/comfort, and a good load of steam**