Tag Archives: hockey

A SECRET FOR A SECRET (All In #3) by Helena Hunting-a review

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A SECRET FOR A SECRET (All In #3) by Helena Hunting-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /Amazon.uk / Amazon.au / B&N paper/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 12, 2020.

My name is Ryan Kingston, and I’m a rule follower. I’ve never been in a fistfight. I always obey the speed limit. I don’t get drunk, and I definitely don’t pick up random women at bars.

Except the night I found out that my whole existence has been a lie.

I got drunk. And picked up a stranger.

Her name was Queenie, and she was everything I’m not: reckless, impulsive, and chaotic. We did shots and traded secrets. And ended up naked at my place.

She left me a thank-you note in the morning and her panties as a parting gift. But no way to contact her.

Six weeks later I’m sitting in the first official team meeting of the season, and there she is. I neglected to mention that I’m the goalie for Seattle’s NHL team.

And Queenie? Turns out she’s the general manager’s daughter.

•••••••••

REVIEW: A SECRET FOR A SECRET is the third instalment in Helena Hunting’s contemporary, adult ALL IN erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the members of the NHL’s Seattle expansion team. This is thirty year old, Seattle goalie Ryan Kingston, and twenty-four year old PA / artist Queenie Masterson’s story line. A SECRET FOR A SECRET can be read as stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Queenie) A SECRET FOR A SECRET follows the forbidden relationship between thirty year old, Seattle goalie Ryan Kingston, and twenty-four year old PA / artist Queenie Masterson. Queenie Masterson is the only daughter of Seattle’s General Manager Jake Masterson, and as such our heroine is off-limits to the hockey players but several weeks earlier, Queenie spent a one-night stand with a sexy stranger struggling with some earth shattering news of his own, a stranger who happened to be Seattle’s first string goalie. Enter Ryan Kingston, the man with whom Queenie will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Queenie and Ryan, and the potential fall-out as Queenie’s past demands reparations, and Ryan’s past comes looking for a second chance.

Ryan Kingston is the personification of perfection; a clean cut “boy-scout” who has fallen for the GM’s daughter but all is not well in Queenie’s life when her ex-boyfriend is the latest player to be traded to the Seattle team, a team that battles to accept the trade for a man whose reputation both on and off the ice precedes his introduction to his new team. A frenzy ensues when secrets and lies are released to the media, a frenzy that forces Queenie to run from the man that she loves.

The relationship between Queenie and Ryan begins as a one-night stand that will soon turn into something more, with the blessing of General Manager Jake Masterson but Queenie struggles with demons from her past, demons that are about to reveal a long-kept secret. As Ryan and Queenie’s relationship heats up, there are people in the back ground desperate to tear them apart. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Queenie’s father Jake Masterson; her ex-boyfriend Corey Slater and his fiance Sissy, as well as Ryan’s brother Gerald, mother, and mom-ster Hannah. We are reintroduced to Bishop and Stevie (A Favor for a Favor #2), Stevie’s brother Rook ‘RJ’ Bowman and his wife Lainey ( A Lie for a Lie #1) and coach Alex Waters and his wife Violet, and their daughter Lavender.

A SECRET FOR A SECRET is a story of family, friendships, secrets and lies; a story of revelations and heart break; of acceptance and love. The premise is captivating; the romance is steamy and hot; the characters are dynamic and seductive.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
A Lie for a Lie
A Favor for a Favor

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Haven’t started the series? Books 1 and 2 are only $1.99 OR £0.99 each (or less) for a limited time

A LIE FOR A LIE: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

FOLLOW: NYT and USA Today Bestselling author of The PUCKED Series, Helena Hunting lives outside of Toronto with her amazing family and her two awesome cats, who think the best place to sleep is her keyboard. Helena writes everything from contemporary romance to romance comedy, sports romance and angsty new adult romance.
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RAFE (Arizona Vengeance 6.5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

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RAFE (Arizona Vengeance 6.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Sawyer Bennett Review & Excerpt Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2020.

I was living my dream until one phone call changed everything.

As the second line center for the Arizona Vengeance, my mind has been on one thing—helping my team bring home a championship. But that all changed when I found out my dad had cancer and only months to live. In that moment, nothing mattered more than getting home to North Carolina to be by his side. That meant asking for the unthinkable—a trade to the Carolina Cold Fury.

Now I’m home and when I’m not on the ice with my new team, I’m helping care for my dad. And in the midst of my grief, I find comfort from the one person I never expected.

Calliope Ramirez stole my heart at a very young age. The beautiful, smart, headstrong girl next door, she was my first… everything. She has never forgiven me for leaving her, believing that I chose hockey over a future together. What she doesn’t understand is that every decision I made was for her, and I’ve never given up hope that one day we’d be together again.

Watching my dad slip away is a harsh reminder of how short life can be, and having Callie by my side makes me realize I was a damn fool before. That changes starting right now. Calliope Ramirez is mine and I’m not going to waste the second chance that I’ve been given.

•••••••••

REVIEW: RAFE by Sawyer Bennett is novella 6.5 in the author’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE erotic, romance hockey series,and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is twenty six year olds, former Arizona Vengeance center Rafe Simmons, and nurse Calliope Ramirez’ story line. RAFE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rafe and Calliope) RAFE follows Rafe as he asks for a late season trade to the Carolina Cold Fury, in the aftermath of his father’s end stage cancer. A return home means facing the woman he has never stopped loving, the woman whose heart he destroyed years before. Enter twenty six year old Calliope Ramirez. What ensues is the rebuilding romance between Calliope and Rafe, and the potential fall-out as Rafe wants more than Calliope is willing to give.

Calliope Ramirez was destroyed eight years earlier when the man that she loved left as he embarked on his professional career. Fast forward to present day wherein Calliope struggles to forgive the man that broke her heart. Rafe Simmons never expected to come face to face with the woman he left behind but Calliope will become a bigger part of his life when she reveals she is helping his father in his final days.

The relationship between Calliope and Rafe is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people who never stopped loving one another but whose futures went in opposite directions. Calliope never understood why the man that she loved left her behind, and eight years later Rafe is hoping to begin where they left off. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are re- introduced to several of the Carolina Cold Fury whom we met in the previous series, as well as welcoming Rafes parents Brenda and Jim, and Calliopes parents Mateo and Danielle.

RAFE is a story of family and grief; second chances and love. The character driven premise mainly focuses on the rekindling romance and Rafes history with a man who is going to die. The premise is engaging and real; the romance is seductive; the characters are colorful and proud.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend
Dax
Tacker
Dominik

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

➣ Watch the book trailer: https://bit.ly/35axv9X

➣ Follow Sawyer Bennett on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sawyer-bennett

I swing open the door, eager to see Mrs. Filmore because she’s an excellent baker, but am stunned stupid when I see Rafe standing there with two grocery bags in hand.
I left him at his parents’ house not more than an hour and a half ago. There was no kiss goodbye, only a promise to call me later. I didn’t know what to—or if I should—read into that. The kiss would have implied some lingering affection; the lack of implying the sex was a one-time-only thing, and perhaps a mistake. Yet the promise to call spoke to wanting to see me again. Or maybe we’d just go back to being tentative friends.
Ugh. So confusing. In the moment, the only thing I can think to say is, “What are you doing here?”
“I missed you, too,” he replies with a sly grin, pushing his way into my apartment.
“Why don’t you come on in?” I mutter sarcastically and close the door, noting how good he smells as he passes me. “But, seriously…why are you here?”
Rafe takes a moment to survey my small apartment and then moves into the kitchen. He holds up the grocery bags. “I thought we could hang. I brought all the makings for tacos, and we can watch movies or something. Really great apartment, by the way. It’s totally you.”
I pad across the small living area and rest my forearms on the counter that separates it from the kitchen. He starts unloading the bags—ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, a six-pack of beer.
“Dad’s sleeping, and Mom’s doing some spring cleaning,” he explains as he moves to put the items in my fridge. “She shooed me out of the house, and I thought we could hang.”
“Hang?” I ask skeptically. What does that even mean?
And then it dawns on me.
“Oh,” I drawl in amusement. “You want sex again?”
Rafe pops straight up, looking at me over the refrigerator door, his eyebrows raised in surprise. “You offering?”
“Um,” I reply, unsure of myself.
He grins at me. “As much as you totally rocked my world today at the pond, Poppy, I really just thought we could hang out. Get to know each other again.”
My eyebrows draw inward, and I’m more confused now than ever. I rocked his world? Really?
Why I flush with pride is beyond me, but what makes a girl feel good is what makes a girl feel good.
Rafe shuts the fridge and moves around the kitchen counter to me. He takes my hand in his, covers it with his other, and brings them to his chest, his expression somber. “I know I can’t possibly hope for you to understand what I did to you eight years ago, and I know it’s likely a lot of wishful thinking that you could forgive me completely. But right now, we reconnected, and I want to see where this goes. Today with you has been the best day since I found out about my dad. I guess I just want more of it.”

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

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For The Win (Wynn Hockey #4) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

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For The Win (Wynn Hockey #4) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 3, 2020

Harrison Wynn
Even though I’m the oldest player on the farm team, I’m playing my heart out this year to prove that I have what it takes to play in the NHL.
Everyone expects me to live up to my dying hockey hero dad’s legacy, but my chances are receding every season.
What I need is to focus, but the team’s new yoga instructor is a major distraction; I’ve had my eye on her from the first time we met.
Except she’s not interested—okay, maybe actively disinterested—since I accidentally dumped her into the ocean during our paddleboard yoga class.
How can I prove to her—and to the NHL—that I’m worth taking a chance on?

Arya Ross
Men are the last thing I need in my life.
Yoga is my priority; it helps me center myself and heal my soul.
But I can’t turn down the once-in-a-lifetime offer to be the personal yoga instructor for the local hockey team.
Sure, there are some cute players—including Harrison Wynn, who seemingly won’t take no for an answer, and whose boyish smile and sexy charm are hard to resist.
He seems genuine, and I wonder . . .
Can I put my past behind me to start a future with him?

•••••••

REVIEW:FOR THE WIN is the fourth instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, romance series focusing on the Wynn family. This is twenty-six year olds, NHL hockey player Harrison Wynn, and yoga instructor Arya Ross’ story line. FOR THE WIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and history.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Harrison and Arya) FOR THE WIN follows two paths including the building romance and relationship between NHL hockey player Harrison Wynn, and yoga instructor Arya Ross, and the illness that is slowly robbing the family patriarch of his mind. Arya Ross moved to California to get away from her past. As a yoga instructor Arya is able to relax and start a new life but meeting hockey player Harrison Wynn forces Arya to look beyond the past, and into a possible future but Harrison is completely unaware of the ghosts that haunt our story line heroine, ghosts about which Arya refuses to talk. As their relationship begins to bloom, Harrison finds himself making one mistake after another, mistakes about which he, once again, is completely unaware. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Arya and Harrison, and the fall out as Arya pushes Harrison out of her life.

Meanwhile, former star hockey player, and team owner Bob Wynn is battling a daily struggle with a debilitating disease. Although his wife Chelsea has kept secret many of the smaller issues, questionable financial transactions and missing money are tearing the family apart. With the truth come questions, questions that no one is able to answer.

The relationship between Arya and Harrison is one of immediate attraction but Harrison and his friends push Arya out of her comfort zone. Arya is hired as the new yoga instructor for the NHL’s California Condors, a position that places Arya in the direct line of fire for Harrison’s advances and growing love but Arya continues to struggle with demons from the past, and in this, their lack of communication set the couple up to fail. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including the large extended and slightly dysfunctional Wynn family: patriarch Bob Wynn and his wife Chelsea; GM of the Condors Theo Wynn; Theo’s brother and hockey player for the Long Beach Golden Eagles JP Wynn, as well as numerous brothers and nephews including Matthew and Mark Wynn from Bob’s first marriage: Mark’s son Jackson; Harrison’s twin brother Asher, Noah and their sister Everly. We are introduced to Arya’s roommate Taj, and his boyfriend Ziggy, as well as the introduction of several members of the California Condors.

FOR THE WIN is a story of family, friendships, secrets and struggle; of one woman’s battle with the demons from her past, and the lack of communication that threatens the growing love between our leading couple, and in this I struggled with Harrison’s acceptance of blame when, in fact, he had no idea of what happened or why, or how the simplest gestures set off our story line heroine. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance struggles in the face of secrets and Arya’s inability to reveal the truth,

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Play to Win
In It To Win It
Win Big

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Dominik (Arizona Vengeance 6) by Sawyer Bennett-Review & Giveaway tour

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DOMINIK (Arizona Vengeance #6) by Sawyer Bennett-Review & Giveaway Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 18, 2020

I built myself up from nothing. A product of the foster care system, I learned early on how to fight hard to get what I want. Whether it was starting my first company in college, earning my first billion, or buying my first professional sports team, I know how to get what I want, when I want it.

Until now.

Willow Monahan is fierce, independent, and hot as hell. She also takes great pleasure in shutting down my advances. The younger sister of one of my star players, Willow intrigues me to my very core. And while she may have willingly given me her body, she is hesitant to offer up more. Now I’m on a mission to find out why.

I’ve decided to approach my desire for Willow like I’ve approached much of my life; with persistence, determination, and a whole lot of that Dominik Carlson alpha charm. Buying a hockey expansion team, building the Arizona Vengeance from the ground up, and bringing home a championship may prove to be an easier feat than winning Willow’s heart.

But I’ve never been a quitter.

Willow Monahan… I’m coming for you.

••••••••••

REVIEW: DOMINIK is the sixth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE, erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the professional hockey team the Arizona Vengeance-a spin off from the author’s Carolina Cold Fury Hockey series. This is billionaire businessman and team owner Dominik Carlson, and photojournalist Willow Monahan’s story line. DOMINIK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary. There is a slight cross-over with the author’s Cold Fury, and Jameson Force Security series. Willow is Arizona Vengeance left winger Dax Monahan’s sister.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Willow and Dominik) DOMINIK follows the building romance and relationship between billionaire businessman and team owner Dominik Carlson, and photojournalist Willow Monahan. Willow Monahan and Dominik Carlson met months before but Willow’s job takes her to some of the most dangerous places in the world. While Willow struggles with Dominik’s attention, Dominik finds himself pulled into the aura that is our story line heroine but when Dominik discovers the truth about Willow’s dangerous career, Dominik battles between head and heart when it comes to Willow’s security and safety. What ensues is the building romance between Willow and Dominik, and the potential fall-out as Willow is unable to let go of the past, a past that affects every relationship going forward.

Willow Monahan doesn’t do relationships; she has been burned in the past and refuses to look towards a future with Dominik Carlson. Dominik wants something more from our story line heroine but his own happily ever after was not in the cards. Refusing to step back from the dangerous situations, Willow is willing to risk her own life when things begin to spiral out of her control.

The relationship between Dominik and Willow is one of immediate attraction but Willow is all about her independence and freedom, an independence that places Willow in the direct line of fire. Dominik struggles with the danger and life threatening work of which Willow is involved but his personal fear is a warning signal to Willow Callahan who refuses to step back or step down as it pertains to her career. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples, as well as Rafe Simmons, and Aaron Wylde; and the Monahan clan.

DOMINIK continues to focus on the run for the championship; the camaraderie of friendship and players on the Arizona Vengeance; and the personal lives and fall-out of illness and injury. The premise is engaging and engrossing; the characters are stubborn, strong and sensitive; the romance is spicy and spirited. DOMINIK is a captivating and compelling addition to the Arizona Vengeance hockey romance series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend
Dax
Tacker

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author.

DOMINIK by Sawyer Bennett releases on February 18 and she’s celebrating with a HUGE new release giveaway!!

He’s the alpha billionaire who owns the Arizona Vengeance.
She’s the relationship averse sister of one of his star players.
GAME. ON.

This prize pack includes:
► A signed paperback of DOMINIK
► Arizona Vengeance tote
► Arizona Vengeance pillow
► Arizona Vengeance mug
► Arizona Vengeance sticker

ENTER TO WIN HERE: https://sawyerbennett.com/giveaways/giveaway-dominik/

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A Favor for a Favor by Helena Hunting-Review & Giveaway Tour

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A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR (All In #2) by Helena Hunting-Review & Giveaway tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / Chapters Indigo Paper /

About the book: Release Date January 28, 2020

When I joined Seattle’s NHL expansion team, I thought it was the start of something great. But nothing ever goes the way you expect. Take my introduction to my new neighbor. She came rolling in on the hot mess express at midnight, making a racket while she tried to get into my team captain’s apartment. Did I mention that he’s married to a woman who definitely was not her?

Imagine my surprise when I end up with an injury that has me out of the game for weeks, and she’s the one to offer to help me. I should probably add that she’s not the captain’s mistress. She’s his sexy, pastel-haired younger sister.

So we come up with an arrangement: she rehabs me so that I can get back on the ice sooner, and she can add a professional athlete that isn’t her brother to her client list. Seems simple enough. As long as I can keep my hands to myself and my hormones in check.

••••••••••

REVIEW: A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR is the second instalment in Helena Hunting’s contemporary, adult ALL IN erotic, romance series focusing on NHL’s newest expansion team from Seattle. This is Seattle team member Bishop Winslow, and twenty-four year old, physiotherapist Stevie Bowman’s story line. A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. The ALL IN series is a spin off from the author’s PUCKED series but you do not have to have read the original series to follow.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Bishop and Stevie) A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR follows the teammate’s little sister/enemies to lovers relationship between Seattle ‘s newest forward Bishop Winslow, and twenty-four year old, physiotherapist Stevie Bowman. Stevie Bowman’s life was spiralling out of control: a move to Seattle to start a new job and join her boyfriend finds our heroine homeless when she discovers said boyfriend in bed with another woman. Leaning on her brother for support, Stevie moves into Rook Bowman’s vacant apartment only to come face to face with his new neighbor, a man who pushes all of Stevie’s buttons and more. Enter Seattle’s newest defenseman Bishop Winslow, and the man with whom Stevie will fall in love. What ensues is the building but acrimonious relationship between Stevie and Bishop, and the potential fall-out when their relationship is discovered by Stevie’s brother, and the team coach.

Stevie Bowman had no idea what to expect when she moved to Seattle but finding her boyfriend in bed with someone else was never on her mind. Moving into her brother’s vacant apartment, Stevie will encounter Bishop Winslow, an irritating a$$hole who believes Stevie is nothing more than a desperate puck bunny looking to hook up with Seattle’s team captain. Bishop Winslow couldn’t believe the nerve of the woman moving into Rook Bowman’s apartment but a pre-season injury finds Winslow facing down his new neighbour when he discovers that Stevie is a physio-therapist, and the person who will help Bishop in his daily recovery.

The relationship between Bishop and Stevie begins acrimoniously. Bishop is all bark, and Stevie isn’t taking any of his crap. But an injured Bishop forces Stevie to make an offer Bishop cannot refuse-a favor for a favor-that will benefit both. The $ex scenes are limited but spicy and hot.

We are reintroduced to Stevie’s brother Rook ‘RJ’ Bowman and his wife Lainey, and coach Alex Waters and his wife Violet, as well as goalie Ryan Kingston: Bishop’s brother Nolan Winslow who struggles daily with his health; physiotherapists Pattie and Jules: and Stevie’s ex boyfriend Joey Smuck-yep Joey Smuck. Ryan’s story line is next in A Secret for a Secret.

A FAVOR FOR A FAVOR is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of stubborn men, and stronger women. The premise is entertaining and captivating; the slow building romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are colorful and energetic-the back and forth banter is often playful and fun.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one A LIE FOR A LIE

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

“Say you were taking a woman to a formal work function. Would you get her flowers or something?” I’ve gone on my fair share of dates, had a few relationships, but I’ve never been one for hearts and flowers or any of that bull. I’m thinking I might need to do that with Stevie, though, since she’s been screwed over pretty hard.

“Is this a date or a favor for a friend?”

“I guess she thinks I’m doing her a favor.” At least that was the impression that I got when I offered to go with her.

“Is that actually what you’re doing?”

“Yes and no.”

“Can you give me a little more to go on?”

“Her ex is going to be there and I don’t want her to go alone.”

“You don’t want her to go alone because you’re worried he’ll be a jerk or he’ll try to take advantage of her?”

“Sure, yeah, that’s part of the reason.”

“Instead of me dragging the information out of you, why don’t you lay it down for me?”

“So, Stevie—”

“Hold up, we’re back to Rook’s little sister?”

“Who else would I be talking about?”

“I thought you said there isn’t anything going on between you, and now you’re taking her to some kind of work function? That’s not a favor; that’s a date. Does Rook know?”

“It’s none of his damn business.”

“I’m not sure he’ll see it that way.”

“Well, he doesn’t have control over her or what she does, or what I do.” I’m agitated now. “She’s not going to that thing alone. I don’t trust that ex of hers, and I don’t want her to end up in a situation she doesn’t like.”

Kingston tips his head to the side. “Dang.”

“What?”

“You like her.”

“Well, yeah, I like her.” What’s not to like? She’s gorgeous, and she’s funny and feisty; her body is rockin’; and she’s fun to be around, super chill, and genuinely selfless.

“Like you actually want to date her, though.”

I shrug, because what am I going to say? The answer to that is yes, I want to date her, but the timing needs to be right. “I don’t want the ex thinking he has another chance.“

“You really love complicated situations, don’t you?”

“They just tend to find me, is all.”

“When’s this event you’re supposed to take her to?” King asks.

“Saturday.”

He frowns. “We get back at noon on Saturday.”

“It’s in the evening.”

“You better hope our flight isn’t delayed.”

I hadn’t considered a delay. The only reason that would happen is if the weather isn’t good. “It doesn’t start until five. I should have plenty of time to get home and throw a suit on.”

Kingston nods and taps restlessly on the edge of the pool. “So would you call this your first date?”

“We hang out all the time.”

“‘Hang out’ meaning what?”

“Other than PT sessions, we watch hockey, eat pizza, stuff like that.”

Kingston blinks several times in rapid succession. “That’s it?”

“I pick her up from work a lot.”

“Have you ever bought her flowers before? Brought her any gifts?”

“I brought her over an aloe plant once. But, like I said, it hasn’t been like that.” I don’t get why he’s so hung up on the flowers.

“Again, please try not to take offense, but are you sure you haven’t inadvertently put yourself in the friend zone?”

“How do I know if I’m in the friend zone?” I haven’t had a lot of friends who are girls. Actually, I don’t think I’ve ever had a friend who’s a girl who isn’t related to me. And I only have two female cousins, whom I see a couple of times a year at family functions. They’re significantly younger than me, so mostly I avoid them.

It’s Kingston’s turn to blow out a long breath. “If you put your arm around her and she gets all snuggly but doesn’t try to take it any further, it could mean you’re in the friend zone.”

I don’t know what my expression must be, but the panic I feel inside quite possibly reaches my face. I feel like it should be obvious that I’m interested. A guy doesn’t spend endless hours with a gorgeous woman who combines weird pizza toppings for shits and giggles. But then again, I haven’t attempted to make a move on her since the almost-kiss. And any conversation I’ve tried to have with her about it has been shut down. In fact, she wants to pretend it didn’t happen. I hadn’t considered that this might be because she actually didn’t want it to happen at all. She seemed just as into it as I was. Or maybe I’ve been misreading the whole thing. “If I’m in the friend zone, how the hell do I get out?”

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FOLLOW: NTY and USA Today Bestselling author of The PUCKED Series, Helena Hunting lives outside of Toronto with her amazing family and her two awesome cats, who think the best place to sleep is her keyboard. Helena writes everything from contemporary romance to romance comedy, sports romance and angsty new adult romance.

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Win Big (Wynn Hockey 3) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

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Win Big (Wynn Hockey 3) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 19, 2019

When your name is Wynn, victory’s the only option…

Everly Wynn: As the only daughter in the Wynn family of hockey heroes, I never shared the ice with my brothers—or the approval they got from my father.
And that was before the scandal that ruined my life at sixteen.
Now that I’ve put all that behind me and built a successful career, the last thing I need is another hockey player in my life.
Especially one like Wyatt Bell.
He’s an arrogant, fast-living party boy. I hate how he gets by on his good looks and charm.
So why can’t I get him out of my mind?

Wyatt Bell: Life is short, and you’ve got to live it to the fullest. I learned that the hard way.
So on the ice, I always play to win, and on the town, fun and flirting are my game.
Because it’s better to laugh your way through the pain than to let them see you’re hurting—but I’ll never stop wishing I could find someone to share the real me with.
Something about Everly Wynn makes me think she could be the one.
But all she sees is a hockey jock hooked on good times.
If she didn’t take herself so seriously, maybe she would take a chance on being happy.

••••••••••

REVIEW:WIN BIG is the third instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the Wynn family hockey dynasty, owners and operators of the NHL’s California Condors, and the Long Beach Golden Eagles. This is twenty-seven year old, executive director of the California Condors’ Foundation Everly Wynn, and twenty-six year old, hockey player Wyatt Bell’s story line. WIN BIG can be read as stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary although I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Wyatt and Everly) WIN BIG follows the building relationships between is twenty-seven year old, executive director of the California Condors’ Foundation Everly Wynn, and twenty-six year old, hockey player Wyatt Bell. Waking up New Year’s morning in Wyatt Bell’s apartment wasn’t on Everly’s bucket list of things to do especially with Wyatt’s reputation as a manwh*re but one things leads to another and Wyatt finds himself the ambassador representing the California Condor’s in the Hockey For All initiative sponsored by the NHL. A night on the town together finds Wyatt the subject of a social media onslaught when a potentially damaging picture threatens his position as the face of Hockey for All. In an effort to clean up Wyatt’s image, the California Condors suggest Wyatt and Everly enter into a fake relationship, a relationship with will turn into something more. What ensues is the building romance, relationship and love between Everly and Wyatt, and the potential fall-out as Everly and Wyatt’s past stir up too many memories, threatening our couple’s tenuous hold on a potential happily ever after.

Everly Wynn struggles with demons from the past, so much so that it has affected her life, and every relationship going forward. Meeting Wyatt Bell stirs something deep within our story line heroine, something that is threatened when life and everything it has to offer rears up and takes hold. Wyatt Bell knows what it is like to struggle with one’s demons, a struggled that landed our hero playing for the California Condors. Falling in love with Everly Wynn was never in the plans, but someone from his past wants a chance going forward.

The relationship between Everly and Wyatt begins as a business arrangement turned fake romance into something more. Everly battles with their one-year age difference, a struggle that is as of a direct result from past experiences and the fall-out of young teen h*ll-bent on destroying her world. Wyatt’s reputation off the ice has preceded his introduction to our story line heroine, a reputation that Wyatt is quick to defend pointing out not everything is as it seems. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including the large extended and slightly dysfunctional Wynn family: patriarch Bob Wynn and his wife Chelsea; GM of the Condors Theo Wynn and his significant other Lacey; Theo’s brother and hockey player for the Long Beach Golden Eagles JP Wynn, as well as numerous brothers and nephews including Matthew and Mark Wynn from Bob’s first marriage: Mark’s son Jackson; Everly’s brothers Asher, Harrison and Noah.

WIN BIG is a story of family, secrets, lies and love. There is an ongoing premise focusing on the aging Bob Wynn that pulls together his large extended family from two marriages including sons, grandsons, and Everly’s adult nieces and nephews. The fast paced premise is engaging and entertaining; the characters are numerous, energetic and passionate ; the romance is seductive, captivating, fun and hot. WIN BIG is an inviting and character driven story of self-blame and heart breaking realizations.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Play to Win
In It To Win It
Win Big

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Tacker (Arizona Vengeance 5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

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Tacker (Arizona Vengeance 5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

TACKER
Arizona Vengeance # 5
by Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Gerne: adult, contemporary, erotic, hockey, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon Paper/ Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2019

I am not okay.

Fifteen months ago, my life was turned upside down when the plane I was piloting went down. Injured and trapped in the wreckage, I had to watch my fiancée die a painfully slow death, which is something that can really mess with your head.

Since that day, I’ve had little desire to do much of anything. Except play hockey, that is. Because that is the one place where the bad memories are banished and I can escape my pain.

But off the ice, I’m spiraling out of control. Losing the grip on my life and putting myself and my career in danger. Now, thanks to a string of bad decisions, I’ve been ordered to complete therapy in order to stay on the team.

The problem? Nora Wayne, my beautiful and somewhat unconventional therapist. I can’t buy into the brand of happy clappy crap this woman is feeding me. What could she possibly understand about the type of loss that I’ve suffered? How does she know anything about finding happiness after losing the most important person in your life?

Turns out, I’ve got a lot to learn, and she’s just the person I need to break through those walls I’ve erected.

I am not okay.
But for the first time in a long time, I know that I will be.

••••••

REVIEW:TACKER is the fifth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE hockey romance series focusing on the Arizona Vengeance hockey team. This is team captain Tacker Hall, and thirty-two year old, counsellor Nora Wayne’s story line. TACKER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order as Tacker’s story slowly develops throughout the series.

NOTE: Some of the events in TACKER cross over with, and run parallel to some of the events in book four DAX.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Tacker and Nora) TACKER follows the building but forbidden relationship between Arizona Vengeance team captain Tacker Hall, and counsellor Nora Wayne. Fifteen months earlier Tacker Hall’s fiancé was killed in a plane crash, a plane in which Tacker was the pilot. Fast forward to present day wherein Tacker’s life is spiralling out of control, a spiral of which he may never recover. Forced into mandatory counselling or consider himself no longer a member of the team Tacker Hall comes face to face with his future in the guise of Nora Wayne, a counsellor who owns and runs a healing ranch where human and horses learn to get along. What ensues is the building but forbidden relationship between Nora and Tacker as our couple learn to let go of the past, a past that is equally traumatic for our story line heroine.

Tacker Hall suffers with the remorse of survivor’s guilt, and the ongoing belief he was responsible for the death of his beloved fiance. Unable to let go, Tacker’s remorse continues to affect his life both on and off of the ice, so much so that Tacker considers ending it all. Meeting Nora Wayne sparks something deep within our story line hero something he hasn’t felt for a very long time. Nora Wayne knows the heart break of survivor’s remorse more so than anyone could have imagined but our heroine uses her experience to empathize with those who are struggling with their own hurt and unimaginable shame. Meeting Tacker Hall pulls Nora out of her comfort zone, allowing her to consider a future with the man with whom she will fall in love.

The relationship between Tacker and Nora is one of immediate attraction but Nora was hired by the Arizona Vengeance in an effort to pull Tacker out of his depression otherwise Tacker’s career was on the blocks. Nora knows to cross the line with Tacker could mean professional misconduct but Tacker takes the extra step in an effort to protect Nora from their palpable sexual attraction. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to the teammates, significant and staff of the Arizona Vengeance: Bishop and Brooke, Erik and Blue, Legend and Pepper, Dax and Regan Coach Claude, and team owner Dominik Carlson, newest team member and Tacker’s best friend Aaron Wylde, as well as ranch hand Raul Vargas. The team dynamic is changing with the influx of significant others, a dynamic that brings the teammates closer together.

TACKER is a story of heartache, grief, tragedy and recovery; second chances and letting go. The premise is emotional, inviting and engaging; the characters are broken, colorful, energetic but on the mend; the romance is seductive and intimate. TACKER is a raw and gritty look at the power of guilt, and the steps to bring grievers back into the light.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend
Dax

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

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Ice Hard (New York Nighthawks #2) by Tracy Goodwin-a review

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Ice Hard (New York Nighthawks #2) by Tracy Goodwin-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 8, 2019

Hockey’s resident bad boy is hell on skates. But when he falls in love, he falls hard.

Nick: As one of the New York Nighthawks, I’ve got it all: fame, success, wealth, plus I’m handsome as hell.
As for my relationships? They could be better.
I know how to do one-night stands, but I’m starting to crave something more.
Then I meet Camille Benetti.
She’s sexy, smart, sarcastic—totally my kind of girl.
The only problem? Cami doesn’t date hockey players.
But she’s never met me. . . .

Cami: Nick George is impossible to resist. Not only is he scorching hot, he’s kind, he’s funny, and he wants me bad.
But I learned my lesson the hard way: no jocks.
So why do I agree to be Nick’s date to the wedding of the year?
One night . . . that’s our deal.
He is the best man, after all.
But Nick is crystal clear about his intentions. He wants a relationship.
And he’s tempting me to break all my rules.

•••••••••

REVIEW: ICE HARD is the second instalment in Tracy Goodwin’s contemporary, adult NEW YORK NIGHTHAWKS erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the professional hockey team the New York Nighthawks. This is professional hockey player Nick ‘the Dominator’ George, and bartender/bookkeeper Camille ‘Cami’ Benetti’s story line. ICE HARD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Cami and Nick) ICE HARD follows the building relationship between professional hockey player Nick George, and bartender/bookkeeper Camille ‘Cami’ Benetti. Cami Benetti doesn’t do relationships, especially relationship involving professional hockey players but meeting Nick George at his best friend’s bachelor party gave Cami thoughts about second chances. Having learned her lesson in the past, Cami struggled with the potential for infidelity on the road but Nick George was nothing like Cami expected. Nick George is the perfect man for our story line heroine although Cami battles between head and heart believing heart break is waiting for the opportune time. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Cami and Nick, and the potential fall-out as Cami struggles with family betrayal, and heart break from the past.

Cami Benetti has one goal in mind-owning and operating the family run Italian restaurant but having spent her entire life proving herself worthy, Cami knows it is only a matter of time before she finds herself on the outside looking in. Past betrayal has left Cami broken and hardened to the idea of never finding love, but finding Nick George means the possibility of second chances. Nick George wants what his best friend and fellow hockey player has-his own happily ever after, and Nick believes he has found it in our heroine Cami Benetti but convincing Cami she is worthy will take more than simple wooing and love.

The relationship between Cami and Nick is one of immediate attraction but Cami refuses to give into Nick’s attempts to flirt and seduce. Only promising one night together, with no strings, Cami will soon discover Nick is the real deal. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Nick’s fellow teammates: Christian Chase and his fiancé Serena (Ice Hot #1) ; teammates Theo ‘Thor’ Ture, Damon ‘the Demon’ DeLaurentis, Ryan ‘Lucky’ McGee, and Alexi ‘The Vamp’ Vladislav; Cami’s best friend and cousin Sally Benetti, and Cami’s siblings including Mike (and Kayla), Matty, Beth (and Scott), and Ben, as well as their father Tony Benetti.

ICE HARD is a story of family, friendship, past betrayals, and moving forward. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are numerous, energetic and flirty although the Benetti clan leaves something to be desired; the romance is seductive and intense. ICE HARD is a welcome and wonderful addition to the author’s New York Nighthawks hockey romance series.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one ICE HOT

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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