Review: Pipe Dreams (Brooklyn Bruisers #3) by Sarina Bowen

May 2, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

PIPE DREAMS
Series: Brooklyn Bruisers #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Sarina Bowen
Release Date: May 2, 2017 

A goalie has to trust his instincts, even when taking a shot to the heart…

Mike Beacon is a champion at defending the net, but off the ice, he’s not so lucky. A widower and a single father, he’s never forgotten Lauren Williams, the ex who gave him the best year of his life. When Lauren reappears in the Bruisers office during the playoffs, Beacon sees his chance to make things right.

Lauren hates that she’s forced to travel with the team she used to work for and the man who broke her heart. There’s still undeniable sexual tension running between her and Mike, but she won’t go down that road again. She’s focused on her plans for the future—she doesn’t need a man to make her dreams of motherhood come true.

Lauren plays her best defensive game, but she’s no match for the dark-eyed goalie. When the field of play moves to Florida, things heat up on the beach.

One of Mike’s biggest fans doesn’t approve—his teenage daughter. But a true competitor knows not to waste the perfect shot at love.

AMAZON | iBOOKS | KOBO

Image result for the lucky one gif

 You’re my happy thought, Lo.”

 

Lauren Williams may be known for being an ice princess, but she’s also one of Nate’s trusted right-hand man. So when Becca suffered a concussion and has to rest, Lauren had to step in and take over her job (temporarily) as manager of the Brooklyn Bruiser’s front office. The problem is Lauren would rather be anywhere else than in the Bruiser’s office. Readers of this series will remember her aversion to hockey and the team but we never really knew why. We do have an inkling that she and the Bruiser’s goalie had a thing in the past but it was never fully revealed in the other books yet.

In Pipe Dreams, we finally get to know the reason behind Lauren’s aversion to hockey. And yes, it does have to do with her past relationship with Mike Beacon. Mike was the former captain of the Bruisers. We found out that he stepped down as captain after his estranged wife fell ill and he had to devote his extra time with her. What we do not know then was that this event was also linked with the demise of his and Lauren’s relationship.

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I have been intrigued with Lauren since the series began. I thought there was more to that whole ice princess routine than meets the eye. But at first, I thought, “Oh no, she’s going to cause trouble for one of our heroine, isn’t she?” But then Sarina Bowen sort of turned that on its head when she volunteered to babysit for Becca’s neice (sic) in the previous book.

Since then, my opinion on Lauren changed. I wanted to know why she’s the way she is. I loved that she’s capable, accomplished and ambitious. She’s also heartbroken and vulnerable. And boy, her past with Mike was a doozy. It’s tragic and it’s one of those things where you really don’t have any choice in the matter. And that’s what makes Lauren’s heartbreak even more relatable.

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I was prepared to hate Mike for what he did with Lauren. But when I started reading this book, I realized that things are more complicated than that. Mike had to make the best decision he can for his family, and while I feel for Lauren and I wish he didn’t break her heart, I understand where his coming from.

It also really helped that Sarina Bowen didn’t write Mike’s wife as this shrew who had no personality except to be the bad guy in the story. Again, it was more complicated than that. I actually felt sympathy for Mike’s family especially his daughter. Okay, I admit I was a little leery when it seemed like Elsa is going to be the “obstacle” that’s going to keep our main couple apart. But again, Ms. Bowen did her character justice. She’s not just a prop but a real character with a story arc.

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The whole team featured prominently in this book as they chase the Stanley Cup. I enjoyed seeing them in action. My only complaint about this book was  [su_spoiler title=”Click to view spoiler” style=”fancy” icon=”chevron”]the baby thing. I don’t mind that she wanted one via insemination but I couldn’t quite understand why she really, really wanted one. And the way she easily accepted Mike’s offer was a bit weird.[/su_spoiler]

Apart that, I liked this one a lot. I’ve always enjoyed Sarina’s writing. Her characters are simply likable and her stories tends to really resonate with me and with a lot of readers. Pipe Dreams is an enjoyable, low-angst, second-chance romance that shouldn’t be missed.

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Review & New Release: Good Boy by Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy

January 31, 2017 by · 1 Comment

GOOD BOY
Series: WAGs #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Rom Com
Author: Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy
Release Date: January 31, 2017

A brand new stand-alone romantic comedy from the bestselling, award-winning team of Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy.

Hosting her brother’s wedding for an MVP guest list is the challenge of Jess Canning’s life. Already the family screw-up, she can’t afford to fail. And nobody (nobody!) can learn of the colossal mistake she made with the best man during a weak moment last spring. It was wrong, and there will not be a repeat. Absolutely not. Even if he is the sexiest thing on two legs.Blake Riley sees the wedding as fate’s gift to him. Jess is the maid of honor and he’s the best man? Let the games begin. So what if he’s facing a little (fine, a lot) of resistance? He just needs to convince the stubborn blonde that he’s really a good boy with a bad rap. Luckily, every professional hockey player knows that you’ve got to make an effort if you want to score.

But Jess has more pressing issues to deal with than sexy-times with a giant man-child. Such as: Will the ceremony start on time, even though someone got grandma drunk? Does glitter ever belong at a wedding? And is it wrong to murder the best man?

Caution: May cause accidental aspiration of tea or coffee. Do not read in a public place where loud laughter is inappropriate. Contains hot but hilarious hockey players, puppy cuddling and a snarky pair of underwear.

 

Blake doesn’t do anything half-assed. He laughs the way he lives his life—loud and fierce and without inhibition. He fucks that way, too.

To say that I’ve been eagerly anticipating this release from two of my favorite authors may be a miiiild understatement. But as excited as I was, I was also just a teeny bit worried too. See, I remember Blake from Us, and I was scared that a full book of his…well…personality…may be a bit much for me. But Cheezus! This man totally managed to grab me by the ovaries and the heart. Yes, he’s a little rabid at times. Like ADD tween sort of rabid. But at the same time, it totally worked for him. The authors managed to pull off what none have done for me in the past. They took a character like him and made him completely endearing. Think young Ryan Reynolds movies sort of endearing.
You may remember Jess, Jamie’s older sister, from US. I have to admit, she got off on the wrong foot with me in that book, but she totally won me over here. This is a girl that’s having a hard time finding herself. Forever viewed as the flaky one by her overachieving family, she wants to prove them wrong. That for once she can pick a career, and stick to it. That’s how she finds herself in nursing school in Canada, and once again facing the man she’s gone through great lengths to avoid.

What the heck are you talking about? Who’s wrong about what?” “You, about, well, everything.” I grin at her. “We’re way more than friends, Jessie.” “Blake—” She sounds exasperated. “But no worries,” I finish breezily. “I’ll just sit tight until you figure that out.”

Blake is just as determined to get in her pants as she is to make sure he keeps his on. Let’s just say Blakey has a thing for dick pics.

I loved the banter and back and forth between these two. Add in a few secondary characters to spice things up, and it was laugh out loud gold.

I’m Blake Riley,” I offer.
“Dyson Hart.”
“Dyson, like the vacuum?”
“That’s right.” He gives me a sidelong glance. “Want a demonstration?”
“Dyson,” Jess snaps. “What did we talk about?”

Blake was a total marshmallow. I loved how hard he cares for his friends. He may put on a good act with his breezy jokes and easy smiles, but this is a man with a heart of gold. He’ll do anything for those he cares about and when he loves, he loves hard. There’s a hidden depth to him beyond the pervy jokes and tween talk.

The story is written with a wonderful mix of humor and feeling. And man, did I love the humor

His gaze lowers to his crotch, and God help me, but I look down, too. Yep. He’s hard. It looks like he shoved a forty of beer down there and tried to smuggle it into the bar. Why does his dumb dick have to be so stupidly big?

I also loved that it didn’t follow the formulaic romance novel with the crazy misunderstandings in the end. It was perfectly paced and unfolded naturally.

If Good Boy is anything to judge by, we have ourselves a new series to obsess over. I’m already salivating for the next book. If a sexy, humorous contemporary romance with a hot hockey player with a heart of gold and a sassy heroine that’s as snarky as she is smart is your thing, then this is an absolute must read!

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Review: The Goal by Elle Kennedy

September 29, 2016 by · Leave a Comment

the-goal-reviewTHE GOAL
Series: Off-Campus #4
Genre: New Adult Romance
Author: Elle Kennedy
Release Date: September 26, 2016add-to-goodreads-button-2

thegoal-ibooks

She’s good at achieving her goals…

College senior Sabrina James has her whole future planned out: graduate from college, kick butt in law school, and land a high-paying job at a cutthroat firm. Her path to escaping her shameful past certainly doesn’t include a gorgeous hockey player who believes in love at first sight. One night of sizzling heat and surprising tenderness is all she’s willing to give John Tucker, but sometimes, one night is all it takes for your entire life to change.

But the game just got a whole lot more complicated

Tucker believes being a team player is as important as being the star. On the ice, he’s fine staying out of the spotlight, but when it comes to becoming a daddy at the age of twenty-two, he refuses to be a bench warmer. It doesn’t hurt that the soon-to-be mother of his child is beautiful, whip-smart, and keeps him on his toes. The problem is, Sabrina’s heart is locked up tight, and the fiery brunette is too stubborn to accept his help. If he wants a life with the woman of his dreams, he’ll have to convince her that some goals can only be made with an assist.

Buy LinksAMAZON | iBOOKSReview-DGR3.5 stars

I hate to tell you this, Sabrina. But you’ve made a big mistake.”
“What? Why?”
His fingers draw my thong tight, the fabric cutting into my swollen lips.
“Because I’m going to ruin you for all future guys. I apologize in advance.”

Time out. Did anyone else just have a pervy hot flash here? No? Seriously? You’re a bunch of lying liars, is what you are. You totally did. Admit it. That line right there just totally revved your engines.

It’s always the quiet ones, isn’t it? Well if I had known the mouth that beard of Tucker’s was hiding all this time, I probably would have been stalking Elle Kennedy down on a daily basis and waving my fist menacingly at her to write his story sooner. What? I like pervy bearded heroes, and don’t you judge me either! Those BILFs get things done, I tells ya. But I digress.

Tucker has always been the calm, quiet, rational and unassuming one of the hockey bunch. Compared to the likes of Dean and Garrett, he always kinda shied away in their spotlight…or so it seemed. BOY was I wrong. Because when this man has a target he goes after, he spares no apology and isn’t afraid to play dirty. But Tucker is also incredibly sweet, humble, and beyond patient and understanding. All those things make him absolutely perfect! And dirty…so very dirty

Oh sweet baby Jesus. Sex with Tucker is dirtier and hotter than I thought it would be. He doesn’t look like he’d be this way, but isn’t it always the quiet ones?

The Goal runs parallel to the events in The Score, so if you haven’t read that book yet, I highly recommend reading it prior to this or some details may be lost on you. Admittedly, I hated Sabrina in the previous books. She was extremely waspish and off putting, to put it frankly. Luckily having her background and really getting down to the truth of why she is the way she is helped connect more with her character. That’s not to say she’s my favorite heroine of the series, but I certainly understood and liked her more in this book than the previous ones.

She’s not certain of me yet. I need to bide my time, but as long as I’m in the game, I’m not worried about the outcome.

Sabrina is driven and highly independent. She doesn’t want or need a man, unless it’s for one night of tension relief. But that all changes when the man is Tucker, because Tucker wants more than a few orgasms from her, and he’s not hesitant to show her what she’s missing. Did I mention I adored Tucker?

So why the lower rating? Weeeelll….I actually wasn’t a fan of a particular trope used in this book. The hows of it seemed a little eye raising in the believability department, and the back and forths of it drove me a little bonkers. There were parts that I wanted to hug Sabrina, and others where I wanted to beat her with the nearest blunt object…or a really really big stick. But I digress once more.

Was The Goal my favorite in the series? Probably not. Did I enjoy it? Absolutely. Ultimately it was an entertaining read that kept me invested in the story and their characters and especially the romance. Tucker definitely is a large part as to why, but Sabrina did grow on me at the end as well.

Fans of this series will certainly enjoy this newest installment. And if you’ve been curious about the silent bearded one, you surely won’t be disappointed.

THE OFF-CAMPUS SERIES

THE DEAL | THE MISTAKE | THE SCORE  |  THE GOAL

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Review: Rookie Move by Sarina Bowen

September 6, 2016 by · Leave a Comment

Rookie Move-Review ROOKIE MOVE
Series: Brooklyn Bruisers #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Sarina Bowen
Release Date: September 6, 2016add-to-goodreads-button-2

rookie move

The first novel in a sexy new series featuring the hockey players of the Brooklyn Bruisers and the women who win their hearts—from the USA Today bestselling author of the Ivy Years series.

In high school they were the perfect couple—until the day Georgia left Leo in the cold… 

Hockey player Leo Trevi has spent the last six years trying to do two things: get over the girl who broke his heart, and succeed in the NHL. But on the first day he’s called up to the newly franchised Brooklyn Bruisers, Leo gets checked on both sides, first by the team’s coach—who has a long simmering grudge, and then by the Bruisers’ sexy, icy publicist—his former girlfriend Georgia Worthington.

Saying goodbye to Leo was one of the hardest things Georgia ever had to do—and saying hello again isn’t much easier. Georgia is determined to keep their relationship strictly professional, but when a press conference microphone catches Leo declaring his feelings for her, things get really personal, really fast….

Buy LinksAMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N

Review-DGR3.5 starsRookie Move-DGR Teaser

You and I don’t have one-night stands. We have forever night stands.”

If you love second chance romance with a hero that’s so sweet and devoted it will make even the most cynical heart swoon, then you’ve just found your next read! It seems the romance genre is well saturated with a good share of alpha-holes lately, and I have to say that Leo Trevi was a breath of fresh air. Don’t get me wrong, alpha-holes happen to be my crack of choice. But every now and then it’s also great to get a genuinely nice guy that fell hard once for the love of his life and never fell out of it.

Georgia and Leo were high school sweethearts, until the Georgia broke Leo’s heart at the end of their senior year and they haven’t seen each other since. Now Georgia is trying to live her dream as the publicist for the NHL and gets the surprise of a lifetime when the new player to the team her father is now coaching is none other than the boy she’s never forgotten or gotten over.

He inhaled, and the familiar fruity smell of her shampoo misted his already hazy mind. Slowly, she lifted her chin, her nose tracing a line up his cheek. Then their lips found each other’s effortlessly, like magnets realigning.

Their reunion was not angst filled but it was certainly full of tension and emotion. It’s hard not to fall for Leo the very second he appears on the pages. The man is swoon with a capital S. Seriously. He doesn’t hide from his feelings or try to punish Georgia. He’s so incredibly pure with the depth of his emotion, that it practically jumps off the pages at you.

There’s plenty of tension from outside forces like the team coach and Georgia’s father and his mystery loathing and hate for Leo, Leo being the rookie to the team and trying to prove himself, and of course trying to deal with the event that led to the ultimate breaking point of their relationship.

As much as I love a good second chance romance, I have to admit that I did find myself a little bored in the first half. Leo was swoony and sweet, but alas I love my men with a little more edge to them, so while I was full, I wasn’t quite satisfied if that makes sense. The second half more than made up for the first and the story read a whole lot quicker. I was antsy to finally get the full reason about why the coach has it out for Leo and the progression of Leo and Georgia’s relationship really picked up while making me curious about the slew of other characters that were introduced like Silas, O’Doul, Becca, and Nate. I’m already salivating for their books….O’Doul especially.

So while this was a little tame for my tastes and so sweet it almost made my teeth ache at times, it also made perfect sense for this story. I could’t see it play out any other way. I loved the ending and while I wasn’t reading this with my usual devour pace, it was still a light and easy romance that I enjoyed quite a bit. It’s definitely the start of what looks to be a fantastic new series and I can’t wait for more.

Are super sweet heroes my thing? Not really. *ducks head in shame* But Leo made a believer out of me just this once.

BROOKLYN BRUISERS SERIES

ROOKIE MOVE (Brooklyn Bruisers #1)
GOODREADS | AMAZON

HARD HITTER (Brooklyn Bruisers #2) <– available January 3, 2017
GOODREADS | AMAZON

PIPE DREAMS (Brooklyn Bruisers #3) <– available May 2, 2017
GOODREADS | AMAZON

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Review: ★The Final Move★ by Victoria Denault

December 20, 2015 by · Leave a Comment

Review-TFMThe Final Move
Series: Hometown Players #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Victoria Denault
Release Date: December 8, 2015add-to-goodreads-button-2

Denault_The Final Move_E-Book

Hockey legend Devin Garrison thought he blew his shot. But his relationship with Callie Caplan just went into overtime.

Sexy, rich, and one of the biggest stars in the NHL, Devin Garrison has always been the one who had it all. That is until his marriage falls apart and he realizes he has to start over. If he’s honest, there has only been one woman who ever really excited him-Callie Caplan. They shared a night that was hotter than the late-summer sun, but in an instant-Callie was gone, pretending it never happened.

Callie Caplan isn’t the wild child people think she is. It’s true she’s avoided relationships, but only because she’s seen how crazy love can be. And her messy, imperfect life is crazy enough without opening her heart to a man-even one as picture perfect as Devin. But when fate brings them back together-just as they need each other most-Devin is determined to convince Callie that what she’s feeling is real. And this final play may be their chance at forever . . . 

Buy LinksAmazon / B&N / iBooks / GooglePlay / Kobo / BAM

Review2 Stars

Minor spoilers to follow, please don’t read my review if you don’t want to know. I’ll spoiler tag the big stuff.

I’ve been a huge fan of this series since One More Shot. The mix of angst and swoony romance just did it for me. And ever since I first met Devin Garrison in that book I’v been not so patiently waiting for his story.

As the calmer and more settled of the Garrison brothers, Devin was refreshingly different. Being married and a daddy also made him even more appealing. But the reader also got a peek into his life and began to understand that not everything in his marriage is quite as perfect as he’d like to make it appear. At first I assumed that Devin’s story would be more of marital issues than reconciliation with his wife, but after the events of Making a Play I realized that he’d be ending up with the other Caplan. After reading the preview in book 2 I have to admit that I was curious as to how this would play out. After finishing it? Well I kind of wish I could unread it, because it made me absolutely hate Callie and strongly dislike Devin in the process. *sigh* Where are those men in black when you need them?
I get what the author was trying to do with this story and while I appreciate her effort, it just didn’t pan out for me. Not even a little. Why?

Issue 1

Villinaize the wife as the catalyst.

Was this really necessary? Couldn’t it just be an “issue” they were dealing with and have them just fall out of love as they clearly were already well on the road for. Did she have to (Highlight to view spoiler)cheat (end spoiler)? I just didn’t find it necessary for the story. Sure, it served as the catalyst for Devin’s decisions, but it just felt like an easy way out.

Issue 2

Devin’s regression.

Oh boy. Where do I even start. So your wife (Highlight to view spoiler)cheats(End spoiler) on you, what do you do? Proceed to drink yourself stupid and have a one-night stand because…why? It felt like revenge and punishment more so than anything else. Hey, I was the perfect husband for so long, I need to slut it out now just to see how the other half lives. It didn’t make sense. And yes, I understand that he was hurting. But what he also was, was still married. Sure, I also get that this is a common occurrence and I shouldn’t judge. But do two wrongs really make a right? Considering how Devin has been for the past two books and always being the voice of reason, I wanted him to take the high road.

Issue 3
Callie.
Now I hate to name call, so I won’t. I also hate slut shaming, so I won’t. What I will say, is I absolutely hated her decisions and treatment of Devin for basically the entire book. One, she’s dated and flirted with his teammates. She proceeds to go on a date after her and Devin finally sleep together. Then there was her decision to go down on him after she finds him in the middle of a drunk hookup and throwing the woman out of the house they’re currently sharing. Also knowing how Devin is, her decision to continuously sleep with him but refuse anything more was downright infuriating. Considering everything Devin’s been through it was almost callous.

Issue 4
Did I mention that Devin is still technically married (though separated and no longer living with his wife) through all of this?
Again, I understand that this happens, and if this was any other character, I could have looked past it. But with Devin? No. I felt like he regressed and just wasn’t the Devin that I ultimately fell in love with throughout the series. I did not like him for a good 75% of this book.

Issue 5
And this is ultimately what lowered my rating even more. I felt zero, no connection between Callie and Devin. There wasn’t an undercurrent of sexual tension or longing throughout the series between them. Not even in this book did that come into play. It felt like they just ended up together because it was convenient and not because it was meant to be. I couldn’t connect to them as a couple. Hell, I didn’t believe in them as a couple. And what’s more, I didn’t like them as a couple.

Le sigh.

To say that I’m disappointed would be an understatement. I love this author, and I will definitely read any of her future work without a second thought. But sadly this book didn’t work for me at all. Maybe because I had such high hopes? Who knows. It is what it is, and I have a feeling this is just one of those books you’ll either understand and enjoy, or you won’t. I don’t see much middle ground here. But that’s just my opinion. Clearly I’m in the minority with my opinion so read it and judge for yourself.

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★The Final Move★ spotlight & interview with author Victoria Denault

December 12, 2015 by · Leave a Comment

Spotlight-TFMThe Final Move
Series: Hometown Players #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Victoria Denault
Release Date: December 8, 2015add-to-goodreads-button-2

Denault_The Final Move_E-Book

Hockey legend Devin Garrison thought he blew his shot. But his relationship with Callie Caplan just went into overtime.

Sexy, rich, and one of the biggest stars in the NHL, Devin Garrison has always been the one who had it all. That is until his marriage falls apart and he realizes he has to start over. If he’s honest, there has only been one woman who ever really excited him-Callie Caplan. They shared a night that was hotter than the late-summer sun, but in an instant-Callie was gone, pretending it never happened.

Callie Caplan isn’t the wild child people think she is. It’s true she’s avoided relationships, but only because she’s seen how crazy love can be. And her messy, imperfect life is crazy enough without opening her heart to a man-even one as picture perfect as Devin. But when fate brings them back together-just as they need each other most-Devin is determined to convince Callie that what she’s feeling is real. And this final play may be their chance at forever . . . 

Buy LinksAmazon / B&N / iBooks / GooglePlay / Kobo / BAM

Author Interview

I’m so excited to have Victoria Denault on DGR today and she’ll be answering all my questions about her Hometown Players series, The Final Move and what’s to come next!

Hi Victoria! Thanks so much for stopping by DGR today!

DGR: Can we start by having you introduce yourself?

Victoria: Hi! I’m Victoria Denault very happy to chat with you. I’m the author of the Hometown Players series. I’m Canadian but I live in Los Angeles with my husband and our two chubby Chihuahuas who like to try and lie on my laptop while I write. LOL

DGR: Now can you introduce your Hometown Players series to those that may not have read it yet?

Victoria:  Hometown Players started off as an idea about three essentially orphaned sisters who, in their twenties, have to go back to the small town in Maine when the cold-hearted grandmother who raised them passes away. Heading back to Silver Bay has them reconnecting with their childhood best friends – the Garrison brothers and their friend Luc Richard and it reignites a whole lot of unresolved feelings towards these boys (now men).

DGR: Was One More Shot your debut novel? And what inspired you to write it?

Victoria: Yes, One More Shot was my debut. I wrote it several years before I tried to have it published. I have always dabbled in creative writing, and was an avid romance reader. I’ve also always been a hockey fan. Those passions collided when I watched the first HBO Road to the Winter Classic series. It was the first time I saw an in-depth glimpse of hockey players lives off the ice – the small towns they came from, their families’ sacrifices and commitment, etc. – and I thought, this kind of lifestyle would make a great background for a romantic story. That’s when Jordan and Jessie’s story started to grow in my head.

DGR: You write about some sinfully hot hockey players, is it safe to assume you’re a fan of the sport?

Victoria: I adore hockey. I was born and raised in Montreal where hockey is a religion and so I’ve been a fan since I was young. But I don’t have loyalty to one specific team. I have favorite players I follow and they are on a variety of teams so I cheer all of them. For example Jeff Carter (LA Kings), Kris Letang (Pittsburg Penguins), Carey Price (Canadiens), Alex Burrows (Canucks), Jordan Staal (Carolina Hurricanes). When they play each other it’s kind of like a game of Survivor in my head and I have to vote one of them off (temporarily). It annoys people that I cheer multiple teams, but oh well.

DGR: Did you have a favorite book to write in the Hometown Players series?

Victoria: Each one was my favorite until I wrote the next and then that was my favorite. The Final Move was the easiest to write. Callie’s boldness and snarky attitude came easily. 🙂

DGR: If you had to pick your favorite scene out of any of the three books, which would it be?

Victoria: Oh boy… just one scene? I have favorites in all the books but if I had to pick just one it would be Callie kicking out Devin’s random hook-up. I like the humor in it, when the hook-up assumes she’s the wife, and I love the passionate fight between Devin and Callie and, of course, the resulting shower scene.

DGR: You write some delicious angst, but I think that Devin Garrison’s book was probably the angstiest for me. Was his book difficult for you to write?

Victoria: It was. I wanted to make sure Devin took time to really move on from Ashleigh, emotionally. I didn’t want him to just jump to Callie because I didn’t want anyone to see her as a rebound. But at the same time, it’s a book with only so many pages, and I needed to get them together, I mean that’s the point? LOL. I struggled a little with that balance – letting him move on without rushing it but still keeping the story moving.

DGR: If you had to describe Devin in 5 words, what would they be?

Victoria: Driven. Proud. Passionate. Loyal. Sexy.

DGR: Callie Caplan is one tough cookie. Out of the three Caplan sisters she’s always come across as the toughest. But she also has some inner demons that she tries desperately to hide, doesn’t she?

Victoria: Oh yeah! Of the three sisters Callie is the one who latched onto the worst possible coping mechanism to deal their childhood trauma. She put a protective shell around herself and tried to be a protective shell for her sisters. She honestly feels that she can never open her heart up because she can’t risk being hurt because her sisters have risked it – and one of them needs to keep their heart in once piece. The idea of letting someone in after all the people who have abandoned her in the past is more terrifying than death for Callie.

DGR: Did you always know that you’d have Devin and Callie end up together?

Victoria: Honestly, no. I thought One More Shot was a one-off novel and that Callie, Rose, Luc and Devin were just supporting characters. But halfway through One More Shot, I realized Rose and Luc’s story needed to be told. And as soon as I started their story I knew that a book about Callie had to happen – ripping down her defenses would be so much fun. I didn’t want to introduce a new person for Callie and Devin was the only Hometown boy who would have the strength to knock down her walls. Plus, I could give him an issue (his wife cheating/marriage ending) that Callie could help him through because Callie lives for helping/protecting her loved ones.

DGR: What was the most difficult part for you to write in The Final Move?

Victoria: Writing the end of Devin’s marriage. Even though Ashleigh cheated I wanted the real reason the marriage fell apart to be about more than that. I don’t know how the hockey lifestyle, with the extended absences and raising kids essentially alone, affects a marriage first hand so I did a lot of research on that. There are blogs and articles written by hockey wives that talk about it which were helpful.

DGR: And how about the most favorite?

Victoria: Any scene with Devin and Conner. I don’t have kids and I didn’t think I would really enjoy writing a child but I loved writing scenes between Devin and Conner, like when Devin tries to explain how Callie will live with them now.

DGR: Now that the Caplan girls are all paired up, and the Garrison brothers all seem to be settled, what’s up next? Any chance the sexy Sebastian may be getting a book?

Victoria: Sebastian should get a book, shouldn’t he? He’s so much fun! I can’t confirm anything yet, but there may be more Hometown Player books coming in 2016.

DGR: Anything you’d like to leave the readers with?

Victoria: A giant heartfelt thank you. I am so happy with the reaction to this series! It’s been a dream come true. And I fully intend to give you some more angsty, hockey romance so stay tuned…

About the Author

VictoriaDenault_Mary Costa Photography

Victoria Denault loves long walks on the beach, cinnamon dolce lattes and writing angst-filled romance. She lives in LA but grew up in Montreal, which is why she is fluent in English, French and hockey.

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Launch Day Blitz & Review: ★Making A Play★ by Victoria Denault @ForeverRomance

September 8, 2015 by · Leave a Comment
Making-a-Play-Launch-Day-Blitz MAKING A PLAY
Series: Hometown Players #2
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Victoria Denault
Release Date: September 8, 2015
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Denault_Making a Play_E-Book

He’ll do whatever it takes to win—on and off the ice.

Luc Richard is the hottest player in the NHL and it has nothing to do with hockey. His racy relationship with his supermodel ex set the tabloids on fire but nearly put his career on ice. To avoid being traded, Luc agrees to take a break from the spotlight and from women and spend the off-season at home in Silver Bay, Maine. It’s the perfect plan… until he reconnects with Rose.

Rose Caplan is tired of being shy, sweet, and safe. She’s ready for passion, romance and Luc. Having loved him longer than she can remember, she’s finally ready to prove she’s not the same innocent little girl he once knew. Off the ice Luc doesn’t do games, but this new Rose makes him feel like playing a little dirty. If he’s really got a shot at her heart then he’s not just playing to win. He’s playing for keeps.


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Luc is out back when we get there, positioning Adirondack chairs around the crackling firepit. The weather is slightly cool, with a strong breeze off the lake. He’s wearing a black v-neck t-shirt with a pair of beige shorts and a dark plaid shirt tied around his waist. He looks like a hipster model or lead singer for a grunge band from the 90s and as usual, it’s fucking hot.He smiles welcomingly as we all pile onto his deck, but as his eyes land on me they flare and I swear to God I see a little spark there. The smile vanishes than reappears a little softer, a little darker.

Jordan speaks, breaking the moment into dust. “So! Be a good host and get me a beer.”

“Get it yourself, bitch,” Luc snarks with a smile and Jordan gives him a playful punch on the shoulder as he walks back into the house to retrieve his beer.

He comes out with beers for everyone and we settle in around the fire and start planning. Luc takes notes on his iPad balanced on his knee. We decide which NHL players and alumni to invite, which weekend to have the event, when to put tickets on sale and what to sell them for. But with every detail that’s decided comes a bigger list of everything that needs to get done, and Luc’s sexy face starts to turn into a grimace of stress. And the one thing none of us can help him with is picking the cause.

“It has to come from you, bro,” Jordan says. “You have to pick something that really means something to you.”

He nods and I catch a glimpse of his tongue resting on his bottom lip as he thinks and I feel that hot tingle of lust between my thighs. I shift in my chair.

“I have to think about that one,” he admits and his voice is low, like it’s some kind of failure.

Jordan gets up to grab another beer and Jessie leaves to use the bathroom. I lean over from my chair and place a hand on his. “It’s okay. We can book the venue and the arena and figure out the cause after. You’ve got a little time.”

He smiles at me gratefully and then he glances down. He runs his fingers over my forearm. “You’ve got goose bumps.”

He stands up and unties the plaid shirt from his waist and then walks around my chair and drapes it across my shoulders. He rubs them gently as he places it there and leans down to whisper in my ear. “You look beautiful tonight, Fleur.”

I tip my head and gaze up at him. KISS ME! I silently beg him. Jessie comes bouncing down the deck stairs and Luc pulls away and the moment disappears into the dark night.

Still, I feel a little flutter of victory inside my heart. There was a glimmer of something in those light brown eyes that I’ve never seen directed at me before. He looked at me like I was something new he hadn’t seen before. Something special. Something desirable. I swear it’s not just wishful thinking.

After two and a half hours of planning and an hour of just goofing off we call it a night. As we drive home Jessie keeps giving me curious glances in the rear view mirror. There’s a smirk on her lips and I know she’s got something to say so when we get inside the house and Jordan heads into the living room I stop her in the kitchen. “Say it.”

“What?”

“Whatever it is you’re thinking.”

She smiles again. “I’m thinking that you’re making a play for Luc.”

I feel defiant and self-conscious at the same time and can’t seem to look her in the eye. “So? Is that bad? And… is it that obvious?”

She shakes her head, auburn hair swinging. “Not incredibly obvious but I know you and normally you’d leave the house in overalls and a sweatshirt for a night drinking beers in someone’s backyard.”

I blush, embarrassed at having my plan exposed, and she walks over and gives me a hug. “All I have to say is good for you.”

“Really?”

“Rosie, it’s now or never,” she tells me giving me a tight squeeze before pulling back and holding my by the shoulders. “You’ve finished college and you’re trying to figure out your future and I’ve known forever that you see Luc in your future. So take the shot. See if it works. If it doesn’t, then at least you can move forward without wondering.”

She walks to the fridge and grabs a bottle of water and then heads towards the living room. She stops in the archway and smiles at me encouragingly. “For the record, Rose. I think it’s going to work.”

I drop down in one of the chairs at the kitchen table. Oh God, I hope she’s right.

Review
4 stars
Making A Play- Dirty Girl Romance

 

Your life will be beautiful because you, Flower, are beautiful. And you will find someone who will love you for it.”

When I first read One More Shot earlier this year, I was hooked on this series. Hot hockey players, angst, and steam, what else could I possibly ask for? Now if you haven’t read One More Shot yet, I highly recommend you do, because it’ll give you a much better background on the Caplan sisters and the dynamic they have between them. While you can easily read Making A Play as a standalone, I think you’d enjoy it more reading in order. Rose is first introduced in One More Shot as the youngest Caplan sister. Admittedly she’s not exactly the type of heroine I enjoy reading about; she’s shy, introverted, a little mousy and has been pining away for her Luc Richard as long as she’s known him.

Luc Richard is a successful hockey player. He’s basically grown up around Rose since her and her sisters were like family to the Garrison family who were like his family as well. While an attraction was always there, Luc always knew that Rose was just too good for the likes of him and so he friend zoned her. Now he’s in town to lick his wounds after his ex almost cost him his career and attempt to stay away from the spotlight and the gossip column. Rosie is determined to get him out of the friend zone while Luc is just as determined to keep them solidly there.

The relationship between these two was both sexy and frustrating. There were many a time when I wanted to reach through my kindle and knock some sense into The French Disaster. I also wanted Rose to grow a bigger backbone and really stand up for herself and show some growth. She may not have been the sassy and smart mouthed woman like her sisters, but she does grow into her own and she did grow on me.

If angst isn’t your thing, this book will probably frustrate the living hell out of you because it takes a good chunk of it (if not 3/4) for Luc to finally get his head out of his ass. I personally gobbled it up like the angst whore that I am.

I loved getting more of Jessie and Jordan in this one. It was great to get that continuation of their HEA and see where they are now. Then there was Callie; the oldest and the wild one of the three sisters.

Can you please say something snarky and inappropriate because if you get all sentimental and mushy, my heart will break for the millionth time in a week.
“Does he have a big dick?”
I laugh. “Thank you.”

I’m not sure what it is about her, but I’m just so intrigued by her story. She almost comes off borderline brash at times, but I can’t help but like her. There’s just something about her that screams that she’s hiding something. And that peek into what happened between her and Devin those years ago certainly whetted my appetite for the next book.

If you’re a reader that enjoys some angst with your sports romance then you definitely need to get acquainted with this author. Was this book perfect? Not quite. I could probably nitpick a few things but at the end of it I truly enjoyed the book so why bother? I think I enjoyed book 1 a little bit more but this was still a fantastic addition. But the book I’m REALLY looking forward to is still to come. I simply can’t wait to see how THAT turns out.

THE SERIES
Denault_One More Shot_E-Book

ONE MORE SHOT (Hometown Players #1) by Victoria Denault (June 2, 2015)

They say you only get one shot at making your dreams come true.  Jordan is determined to take two.

Drafted by the NHL at eighteen, Jordan Garrison was headed for fame, and there was only one person he wanted to share it with Jessie Caplan. He was crazy in love with her, and had finally told her so. They shared an amazing night . . . and then everything fell apart.

Jessie tries not to think about the night she gave herself to Jordan-or how he broke her heart. She tries not to think about it, but she does. Especially now, when she’s staring into his sky-blue eyes for the first time in six years. After so much time and torment, she can’t tell if she loves him or hates him. But Jordan has learned enough to know a connection like theirs is rare. He was lucky to find Jessie once. No way will he lose her again.

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Denault_The Final Move_E-Book

THE FINAL MOVE (Hometown Players #3) by Victoria Denault (December 8, 2015)

Hockey legend Devin Garrison thought he blew his shot. But his relationship with Callie Caplan just went into overtime.
Sexy, rich, and one of the biggest stars in the NHL, Devin Garrison has always been the one who had it all. That is until his marriage falls apart and he realizes he has to start over. If he’s honest, there has only been one woman who ever really excited him—Callie Caplan. They shared a night that was hotter than the late-summer sun, but in an instant Callie was gone, pretending it never happened.

Callie Caplan isn’t the wild child people think she is. It’s true she’s avoided relationships, but only because she’s seen how crazy love can be. And her messy, imperfect life is crazy enough without opening her heart to a man—even one as picture perfect as Devin. But when fate brings them back together—just as they need each other most—Devin is determined to convince Callie that what she’s feeling is real. And this final play may be their chance at forever…

About the Author

Victoria Denault loves long walks on the beach, cinnamon dolce lattes and writing angst-filled romance. She lives in LA but grew up in Montreal, which is why she is fluent in English, French and hockey.
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Review: ★Him★ by @sarinabowen & @ellekennedy

July 25, 2015 by · 2 Comments

Review HimHim
Genre: New Adult, MM Romance
Authors: Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy
Release Date: July 28, 2015add-to-goodreads-button-2

They don’t play for the same team. Or do they?

Jamie Canning has never been able to figure out how he lost his closest friend. Four years ago, his tattooed, wise-cracking, rule-breaking roommate cut him off without an explanation. So what if things got a little weird on the last night of hockey camp the summer they were eighteen? It was just a little drunken foolishness. Nobody died.

Ryan Wesley’s biggest regret is coaxing his very straight friend into a bet that pushed the boundaries of their relationship. Now, with their college teams set to face off at the national championship, he’ll finally get a chance to apologize. But all it takes is one look at his longtime crush, and the ache is stronger than ever.

Jamie has waited a long time for answers, but walks away with only more questions—can one night of sex ruin a friendship? If not, how about six more weeks of it? When Wesley turns up to coach alongside Jamie for one more hot summer at camp, Jamie has a few things to discover about his old friend…and a big one to learn about himself.

Warning: contains sexual situations, skinnydipping, shenanigans in an SUV and proof that coming out to your family on social media is a dicey proposition

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HIM1

Review

5 starsHim-DirtyGirlRomance

Jamie Canning was my first crush and my first love. But he was never mine to have.

So let’s see here; we have friends-to-lovers, second chance romance and GFY all mixed in with sizzling chemistry and humor. If that’s not enough to justify my 5 star rating, I dunno what is. Maybe I haven’t read an MM in a while, maybe I was exactly in the mood for a feel good and sexy MM romance? Whatever the reason may be, I loved this book to pieces. There was not one part of it I read where I didn’t either have a goofy grin on my face or felt like I needed to ice my ovaries. It was fabulous!

My weakness is him.

Ryan “Wes” Wesley and Jamie Canning have been friends for years. Some of their favorite memories came from the time they spent together at hockey camp, until the summer when they were eighteen when one night and one dare changed everything and Wes just disappeared from his life. Jamie never stopped missing his best friend or wondering what he did to push him away.

Wes has been in love with his very straight best friend for years. His mistake those four years ago made him turn away and not look back since. But he’s never forgotten Jamie or gotten over his feelings for him. Now chance brings them together again on the ice rink, and Wes will be dammed if he’ll just let him walk away from his life again. And if he happens to get his friend to look at him as anything more than just a buddy? Hey, hope springs eternal, right?

Maybe one day a switch would suddenly go off and he’d be like, hmmm, I’m totally into Wes. Or maybe he would figure out he swings both ways and decide to take a walk on the dude side.

I simply loved the interaction between Jamie and Wes. Their bond is so strong even after 4 years without speaking. I command the authors for making the transition to Jamie’s true sexuality as natural as it did. It was like the reader was discovering everything along with him and it just made it that much better. As for Wes? Don’t even get me started on that man. He was my favorite part about this book. He’s a rule breaking wise ass, but beneath the muscles and tattoos is a heart of gold. His feelings for Jamie were so heart melting and heart breaking, I just wanted to reach through my kindle and hug him.

There was so much to love about this book, the biggest being the banter between these two. It was utterly delicious.

…what two guys stand around describing their perfect sexual partner? Did we wander onto the set of Sex and the City? If so, I’m Samantha. Called it.”
“You know actual character names from Sex and the City? Shit, if you hadn’t told me you were gay, I would’ve figured it out just now.”

And if you’re curious about the steam? Well let’s just say Him has just the right amount to make this story incredibly sexy on top of entertaining as hell! The sexual chemistry between Ryan and Jamie practically crackled with electricity. And when they finally get together?

We’ve been going at it every night like puck bunnies in heat this week. Pinch me. It’s like a blowjob relay race around here. And we’ve gotten really good at passing the baton

Ryan was such a fantastic hero as well. He’s such a tender heart, but it totally works for him. Together they just made a certain kind of sense. These are two guys that you’ll be rooting for from beginning to finish. I absolutely loved the way that Ryan is with his family and their quirkiness. Considering the cold detachment of Wes’s family, it was wonderful to have such a warm family dynamic on the other end.

If you’re looking for a fun and sexy NA MM romance, you really should look no further. Sabrina Bowen and Elle Kennedy together are a dynamic powerhouse and I only hope they have more books planned together for the future because I’d read them all without a second thought.

What do you want?” I ask. And I need him to be specific. This is a very dangerous game we’re playing. It will probably end in disaster. But if there’s a way I can prevent that, I will.
He moves further onto the bed, making room for me. Then he beckons. And there isn’t enough money, fame or fortune in the world to keep me from obeying.

Him2

 

About the Author

Sarina
Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

Elle
Goodreads​ / Website / Twitter / Facebook

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Review: ★One More Shot★ by Victoria Denault

June 20, 2015 by ·
One More Shot 
Author: Victoria Denault
Genre: Contemporary, Sports Romance
Release Date: June 2, 2015

They say you only get one shot at making your dreams come true.

Jordan is determined to take two.

Drafted by the NHL at eighteen, Jordan Garrison was headed for fame, and there was only one person he wanted to share it with—Jessie Caplan. He was crazy in love with her, and had finally told her so. They shared an amazing night . . . and then everything fell apart.
Jessie tries not to think about the night she gave herself to Jordan—or how he broke her heart. She tries not to think about it, but she does. Especially now, when she’s staring into his sky-blue eyes for the first time in six years. After so much time and torment, she can’t tell if she loves him or hates him. But Jordan has learned enough to know a connection like theirs is rare. He was lucky to find Jessie once. No way will he lose her again.

Thanks to Jessie, I knew love felt like pain. Deep, cutting, dying-inside pain.

One More Shot is the first book in the Hometown Players series, and if you enjoy angsty and sexy second chance romance, it’s one you don’t want to miss. I’ll admit, I was sold the second I read that synopsis. Friends to lovers and a second chance romance? Gimme! I will never pass that up. Add it some angst, a manwhore hockey player and the girl whose heart he broke and who in turn broke his? Yep, that’s a recipe for book gold for me there.

Jordan and Jessie grew up together. The Caplan sisters were practically joined at the hip with the Garrison brothers all through high school. When the Caplan sisters lost their parents at a young age and moved into the small town of Silver Bay to live with their grandmother that wasn’t all that thrilled to have them. Spending most of their time with the Caplan clan allowed them to feel the warmth of family that they were missing, and it also brought together Jordan and Jessie and formed a tight bond of friendship. Growing up they were each other’s world.

 Jordan has been in love with Jessie for as long as they’ve been friends, so when the opportunity finally shows itself for him to make his move, he doesn’t hesitate. He takes it and doesn’t look back and the sparks that have been simmering between them through the years finally spark to life.

There’s no faltering. No reservation when our lips touch. There’s only a feeling- like a lighting bolt- that blasts through my body. I feel…bulletproof.

But then much like the typical 18 year old boy, Jordan screws up and breaks Jessie’s heart. Knowing that she’ll only ever be the only one for him, when she moves away from Silver Bay and severs all ties to him, he’s devastated. So he concentrates on all he has left; his hockey career. Being drafted right out of high school allows him to focus all his pain and loss on his hockey. And of course being the typical men, he drowns his pain between the legs of any willing woman…and there’s plenty of them…

Hockey was the only thing in my life that made me feel right. It used to be hockey and Jessie, but then I lost Jessie. It had been hockey and only hockey ever since.

Now six years later, the death of Jessie’s grandmother brings both her and Jordan back to Silver Bay and to face the past that they both tried to ignore or outrun in their own right.

I was trying to find something to numb the pain. Because it never left. I never stopped missing you. I never stopped needing you. There was a constant ache in my chest for you. I tried to convince myself that it was anger, but it was love. And no one could fix it. You’re the only one who can fix it.

One More Shot was definitely heavy on the angst. Jessie and Jordan have a whole lot of unfinished business and miscommunication between them and that all culminates over their 6 years apart to the non-relationship they have now. Jessie has a hard time swallowing Jordan’s past with women especially since his hockey career puts him in lots of headlines…mostly for his womanizing ways. She certainly makes Jordan works for every crumb she throws his way. At times it was almost too much for me. While I understood her hurt and anger she would purposely hurtful to Jordan when everything that Jordan has done was because he didn’t think he had a chance with her and was definitely not with he direct intent to hurt her.

 The story is told in flashbacks from past to present though it was smoothly interwoven into the book so it was never confusing or distracting. It gives you Jordan and Jessie’s past piece by piece that ultimately leads to that one fateful “thing” that killed their relationship.

 Jordan has always been in love with Jessie and he’s still in love with her now. His efforts to get her back and her outright blowing him off at times was no easy pill to swallow. As much of a manwhore as he may be, I found Jessie to be almost cruel to him at times. His manwhoring ways completely stopped when Jessie came into his life, so although he had plenty of women before, there are no jilted exes when he finally gets back into Jessie’s life.

 I really enjoyed this book and all the secondary characters; Jordan’s best friend and two brothers, Jessie’s sisters. This book gave me all my favorite tropes in one angsty and sexy read. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what more Victoria Denault has to offer with this series. The set up for Rosie’s story already has my interest peeked, so I definitely found me a new series to love.

· Filed Under: All Reviews, Sports · Tagged With: ,

Review: ★Game Changer★ by @m_cutler

May 27, 2015 by ·
Game Changer 
Series: Bomb Squad #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: May 19, 2015

The author of Undefeated and Risky Business has another sexy hero for you to meet…

Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad—an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has the team captain packing his bags for greener pastures, but saying good-bye to the woman who’d captured his heart is easier said than done…

After being wounded in combat, Brandon Theroux lives every day like it’s his last. He never could have imagined that the sleek mechanics of his prosthetic leg would open so many doors, including minor celebrity status as a fitness model and a well-earned reputation as a rakish playboy. The only door it hasn’t opened is the one to Harper Johnson’s bedroom.

Harper has too much self-respect to join the ranks of Brandon’s “carpe diem” conquests, but when she needs someone to keep the peace in the tavern she owns, Brandon offers his help—as long as she agrees to a very tempting trade. It isn’t long before the two realize that a deal struck between friends who can’t keep their hands off each other has the potential to be a whole lot hotter than either of them is prepared to handle…

This is going to ruin our friendship.”
The fire in his eyes threatened to incinerate them both where they stood. “Baby, we were never meant to be friends.”

Oh. Oh wow. This book. What a perfectly pleasant surprise this was. Admittedly, my inner cover whore first caught her eye on that cover, because c’mon, have you seen that cover. So of course I was thinking I’m getting another hot hockey player and manwhore and the woman that denies him so he wants her even more. What I got is so SO much more. The depth of these characters, their story, the romance, I think I loved everything about this book.

You should see the way you look right now,” he growled. “The fight in your eyes. The fire. I live to see you like this.”
“Such pretty words,” she sneered, shoving at his chest. “If only they weren’t empty.”
“You have no idea how hard I’ve tried to give you up.”
“Stop saying that as though it means something.”

Brandon Theroux lost his leg to an IAD explosion while deployed in the military, but he didn’t let that stop his life. A successful model and personal trainer by day, a lothario by night, he lives every day like it’s his last. As much as he loves his Bomb Squad team of fellow wounded vets, he knows he’s not meant for the small town of Destiny Falls and finally seizes his chance with the opportunity of a lifetime to move to Miami and appear on Meet the Groom and bring national recognition and inspiration for all wounded vets like himself. He just has some unfinished business first; in the form of the independent and feisty blonde that has been denying every single one of his advances for the last five years.

He didn’t know what the future held for her, or for him. All he knew was that neither of their lives would ever be the same again after this weekend.

Harper Johnson has no interest in being another notch on Brandon’s bedpost. She wants commitment and permanence and she knows that Brandon will never offer what she needs and she has too much pride to give into the lust between them knowing it won’t last past the night. She’s eight years older and he just may be too young to understand the beauty of what she wants. But then one disastrous hook up takes them from two people fighting their chemistry to two people who become each other’s rocks during their most difficult times and best friends.

Someday you’re going to find someone who’ll beg you to put that ball and chain on his leg. A guy who thinks the perfect way to spend the rest of his life is shackled to you inside your brick fortress.”

First of all, can I just say how much I loved the way that the author handled the first hookup between the characters. How often do you read about the hero loosing his erection because he’s so angry and the heroine faking an orgasm because she’s thinking too much. Bad sex? These two had it.

Melissa Cutler then takes a story that could have been ordinary and cliche and made into something so much more. She took a heroine and gave her a true struggle. She made her a survivor. She gave her a weakness to embrace. She made her a fighter, a woman who fights for every day of her life and enjoys it to the fullest. She then took a hero that could have been your typical manwhore, and gave him depth. She took a friendship and infused it with just the right amount of undeniable chemistry that the characters both try to ignore but can’t. She developed an incredible friendship between Brandon and Harper. She gave these characters so much depth and made me fall in love with their story and this book.

He was in love. He, Brandon, the biggest commitment-phone of all time, a self-proclaimed bachelor for all eternity. He didn’t want to settle down. He didn’t want to be shackled to one place and one woman. Except that now, he could think of no better fate than to spend the rest of his life bound to Harper.

Was this filled with gratuitous sex scenes? Nope. But the few that it did have were absolutely scorching and just added to the story. It’s not quick paced or filled with twists and turns. It’s a slow burn that’s paced just right to truly make you fall in love with the characters and the town of Destiny Falls. There was nothing even a little ordinary about either one of these characters and I absolutely loved all the secondary characters.

 This was my first book by this author and I can definitely tell you that it won’t be my last. This book is easily read as a standalone (I started with this book and had no problems keeping up with the story), but I’ll definitely be going back and reading the rest of the series now. I hope that Melissa gives us Kayla’s book next because that set up was just too delicious to miss.

 If you’re looking for a friends-to-lovers romance that’s different from the norm, a romance to fall in love with, and characters that you won’t soon forget, this is the book you need to be reading. I’m so glad that I did.

· Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance, Sports · Tagged With: ,
Copyright © 2015 · Dirty Girl Romance

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