In It To Win It (Wynn Hockey #2) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

Posted on July 24, 2019 by Sandy

In It to Win It (Wynn Hockey #2) by Kelly Jamieson-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 23, 2019

JP Wynn: I admit, I’ve made some bad choices—on and off the ice.
Now all I want to do is show my team I can control my emotions while I’m playing and redeem myself with my family, especially with my brother, Théo.
I hate that I hurt him and I’m determined to stay out of trouble.
But the hot bridesmaid at Théo’s wedding is tempting me into another bad decision.
A little flirting and a hook up with Taylor seem harmless . . . until Manny Martinez jumps me on the dance floor and starts beating the crap out of me.
And just like that I add one more bad decision to my résumé.

Taylor Hart: I always thought hockey players were hot. Now I think they’re crazy.
Manny broke my heart when he got traded to another team and left without even a goodbye.
Then he showed up at my best friend’s wedding. All I wanted to do was show Manny that I was over him.
And the groom’s sexy brother, JP, seemed more than willing to be my distraction.
But after the way everything went down, I want nothing to do with any of them.
Easier said than done. Especially when Lacey’s new brother-in-law is always around. . . .
And I keep thinking about the wedding night, when we snuck away to his room for the best sex of my life.

•••••••••

REVIEW:IN IT TO WIN IT is the second instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, romance hockey 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-six year old, Long Beach Golden Eagles, professional hockey player Jean Paul ‘JP’ Wynn, and twenty-four year old speech pathologist Taylor Hart’s story line. IN IT TO WIN IT 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 (JP and Taylor) IN IT TO WIN IT follows the acrimonious relationship between twenty six year old, Long Beach Golden Eagles professional hockey player Jean Paul ‘JP’ Wynn, and twenty-four year old speech pathologist Taylor Hart. JP’s brother Theo married his sweetheart Lacey Olson but a one-night stand between JP and Taylor Hart resulted in a dance floor brawl between JP and Taylor’s former beau, a brawl that left JP struggling to understand what went wrong and why. Believing he once again found himself in a relationship with a woman already spoken for, JP goes on the defensive when Taylor refuses to admit what happened or why. Weeks to months will pass where JP and Taylor will cross paths, paths that will soon lead to a second chance at romance and love. What ensues is the building relationship between Taylor and JP, and the potential fall-out when Taylor reveals the truth about the night where everything went all to h*ll.

JP Wynn struggles with both his on and off ice persona; a reputation as a man-whore who ‘stole’ his brother’s girlfriend, recent events place JP back in the dog house with his family, his teammates and the woman with whom he had hoped to see again. Taylor Hart’s life is about to spiral out of control but her on-again, off-again friendship slash relationship with JP Wynn is threatened by the secrets she keeps hidden to herself. When a former boyfriend discovers the relationship between JP and Taylor, JP finds himself targeted for sins of the past.

The relationship between JP and Taylor is one of immediate attraction but JP’s reputation precedes his introduction to our story line heroine. Taylor battles between head and heart as she struggles to forget about the man with whom she will fall in love. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are once again, reintroduced to the large extended and slightly dysfunction Wynn family including Theo and Lacey;Grandpa Bob Wynn, and coach /uncle Mark Wynn.

IN IT TO WIN IT is a story of family, secrets, lies and revelations. The premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are charismatic and colorful; the romance is seductive but Taylor’s puzzling actions hurt our hero more than once but several times over.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one PLAY TO WIN.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Changing Lines (Bellevue Bullies 5) by Toni Aleo-Review Tour

Posted on June 25, 2019 by Sandy

Changing Lines (Bellevue Bullies 5) by Toni Aleo-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2019

Claire and Jude Sinclair have been living the perfect life for the last ten years.

Blissfully in love, professionally successful, happily married… They have everything they want—except a baby to make their family complete.

On the eve of the birth of the baby they’re planning to adopt, Jude gets traded to another hockey team in another state, and their thoughtfully planned-out road to parenthood hits a speed bump.

But they didn’t survive all the turmoil of their pasts to get knocked out now. This is their game seven, and they won’t accept anything less than a win for the family they’re destined to have.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: CHANGING LINES is the fifth instalment (and novella) in Toni Aleo’s contemporary, adult BELLEVUE BULLIES hockey romance series. This is the continuing story of husband and wife Jude and Claire Sinclair. CHANGING LINES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Jude and Claire’s story line begins in book one BOARDED BY LOVE (see below).

Told from dual first person perspectives (Claire and Jude) CHANGING LINES follows husband and wife Jude and Claire Sinclair as they await the arrival of their first born child. Having struggled with infertility, our couple had considered surrogacy but a chance meeting with an abused teen gave them hope when Tristan offered her unborn child to the couple who saved her life. But things don’t go according to plan when the team announces Jude’s trade, just days before their child is born.

CHANGING LINES is an emotional story line of struggle and loss; of family and friendship; of babies, love and happily ever after. The emotional premise is both heart breaking and satisfying; the characters are colorful, real and charismatic. CHANGING LINES is a quick glimpse at one couple as they struggle with life and everything it has to offer.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

___________

BOARDED BY LOVE
(Bellevue Bullies #1)
by Toni Aleo
Genre: new adult, contemporary, hockey, romance

FREE ebook Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 2014

Jude Sinclair here, hockey player for the Bellevue Bullies and lover of all ladies. Hockey’s in my blood, and not to sound full of myself, but

I’m good at it…really good. The draft is within my reach—it’s mine to take—but that’s not the only reason people know my name. They know me because of my way with women. They know the score, and I aim to please. I just tend to stay away from repeat performances. In other words, I don’t do relationships beyond my family and friends. I’m happy with life. However, I should warn you that my story and how I see it playing out is about to change due to a certain redhead on campus.

She’s beautiful. Stunning. Breathtaking.

She’s my game changer.

“He’s trouble from the moment I see him. I don’t know what I’m thinking, but from the moment I meet his gaze, I’m his. It’s a scary feeling.

I’ve never trusted anyone outside my aunt and uncle—and even that took months. I didn’t have it easy growing up. My mom was usually strung out, and she didn’t give me a second thought. Drugs and the men who paid her were more important to her. It was horrible, but I’m stronger today. Because of my past, security is what I need most. Money assures me that I can take care of myself today, tomorrow, and next month. I don’t want to ever be hungry or go without again, so I work hard for every penny.

Oh, by the way, I’m Claire Anderson. I’m a hard-studying sophomore at the University of Bellevue, dancer for the school dance team, and a burlesque dancer at a club, but that’s my secret.
You may think you know how our story ends, but you have no clue. It’s not easy falling in love… or living happily ever after. At first it may seem so, but when is anything worth having ever won without a fight?

Especially when you’re boarded by love.”

••••••••••••

REVIEW: BOARDED BY LOVE is the first instalment in Toni Aleo’s contemporary, new adult BELLEVUE BULLIES hockey romance series focusing on the University of Bellevue, Tennessee hockey team. This is university hockey star Jude Sinclair, and choreographer/dancer/student Claire Anderson’s story line. The Bellevue Bullies series is a spin off from the author’s ASSASSIN series. Jude and Claire were first introduced in the previous series. Claire is Phillip Anderson’s niece (Breaking Away, Assassins #6).

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jude and Claire) BOARDED BY LOVE follows the building romance between university students, hockey star Jude Sinclair, and choreographer/dancer Claire Anderson. Claire Anderson has struggled most of her life until the day her uncle rescued her as she spiralled out of control. Now a sophomore in university, Claire will come face to face with hockey star Jude Sinclair, a man she knows nothing about. As Jude begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, Claire battles between head and heart knowing her life as a burlesque dancer is not conducive to the lifestyle of a budding hockey star. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Claire and Jude, and the potential fall-out as Jude uncovers Claire’s lies of omission.

Claire’s earlier life controls her present. Frightened of abandonment and losing it all, Claire works nights as a burlesque dancer in an effort to protect herself from the same life she lived when her mother was alive.

The relationship between Claire and Jude is one of immediate attraction; a palpable sexual energy that does not go unnoticed by family and friends. 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 secondary and supporting characters including Claire’s uncle Phillip and his wife Reese; Jude’s brothers Jayden and Jace, their sister Lucy, and parents Mark and Mrs. Sinclair; as well as roommates, students, and several dancers.

BOARDED BY LOVE is a story of family, friendship, secrets and lies; a story of betrayal, desperation, trust and love. The premise is engaging and energetic; the romance is seductive and captivating; the characters are colorful, dynamic and passionate.

Own a copy

My name is Toni Aleo and I’m a total dork.
I am a wife, mother of two and a bulldog, and also a hopeless romantic.
I am the biggest Shea Weber fan ever, and can be found during hockey season with my nose pressed against the Bridgestone Arena’s glass, watching my Nashville Predators play!

When my nose isn’t pressed against the glass, I enjoy going to my husband and son’s hockey games, my daughter’s dance competition, hanging with my best friends, taking pictures, scrapbooking, and reading the latest romance novel.
I have a slight Disney and Harry Potter obsession, I love things that sparkle, I love the color pink, I might have been a Disney Princess in a past life… probably Belle.
… and did I mention I love hockey?

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Ice Hot (New York Nighthawks #1) by Tracy Goodwin-a review

Posted on March 31, 2019 by Sandy

ICE HOT (New York Nighthawks #1) by Tracy Goodwin-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date march 5, 2019

The Nighthawks are hockey’s new expansion team. They’re ice hot. And they’re all about the chase.

Christian: They call me a hockey god because I’m a beast on the ice . . . and off. Men want to be me and women just want me. But now that the New York Nighthawks expect me to lead their team to victory, it’s all work and no play. My eyes are on the prize. Until I meet Serena Ellis, a sexy, curvalicious blonde who doesn’t know me from jack. And just like that, I’m hooked.

Serena: I don’t do one-night stands—especially with celebrity jocks who date models. Lots of models. But the god of hockey is a temptation that’s hard for mere mortals to resist. And after the best kiss of my life, I’m ready to throw my one-night stand rule out the window. Except Christian Chase won’t let me. He doesn’t want a one-night stand. He wants it all.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: ICE HOT is the first instalment in Tracy Goodwin’s contemporary, adult NEW YORK NIGHTHAWKS hockey, romance series focusing on the NHL’s newest expansion team the New York Nighthawks. This is New York Nighthawks team captain Christian ‘Cyclone’ Chase, and fashion designer Serena Ellis’ story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Christian and Serena) ICE HOT follows the building relationship and romance between New York Nighthawks team captain Christian Chase, and fashion designer Serena Ellis. Having met accidentally over a spilled ice-blue slushy, Christian Chase couldn’t get the curvy blonde out of his mind but a team get-together at a local bar found our hero face to face with the woman who rejected his teammate, the woman who has starred in all of his recent fantasies and dream. Enter fashion designer Serena Ellis, and the woman with whom Christian will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Christian and Serena, and the fall-out as jealousy, the media, and the social pariahs of the internet take turns destroying our leading couple.

Serena Ellis knows she isn’t a rail thin model, a fact pushed home on more than once occasion, but it is her curves that have made our heroine a fashion success. Struggling to get out from the controlling thumb of her well-to-do and judgmental parents, Serena finds solace in building her own brand, one curvy girl at a time. Christian Chase is a successful professional hockey player who finds comfort in the simple things like hockey, his friends and his dog. Making a name for himself places a target on his back, a target one of his fellow teammates is determined to hit every single time.

The relationship between Christian and Serena is one of immediate attraction but an attraction tempered by sins of the past: issues of trust, rejection and the possibility of failure. Trying to keep their relationship on the down low, Serena and Christian will become the leading story when jealousy, betrayal and vengeance for Christian to push Serena out of his life. 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 secondary and supporting characters including several members of the New York Nighthawks. We are introduced to Serena’s brother Lucas and his husband Charlie; her best friend and business partner Becca, as well as Serena and Lucas’ parents Harrison and Kathryn, and feisty grandma Savannah Ellis.

The world building focuses on our heroine’s low self esteem. As a woman of size and curves Serena has struggled to fit into the mold her parents have always wanted her to fit. An teenaged rejection followed by humiliation and pain have caused emotional scars for our story line heroine, and social media body shaming continues to focus on her insecurities wherever she goes. Christian Chase never knew the pain of destroying a woman’s heart but trying to protect Serena from the fall-out of jealousy and betrayal meant Christian was forced to push Serena out of his life.

ICE HOT is a story of jealousy, betrayal, heart break and love. The premise is sensitive and spirited; the characters are real and animated; the romance is dramatic and moving. ICE HOT is an impassioned look at one woman’s struggle to fit society’s mold, and one man’s struggle to protect the woman he loves.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Legend (Arizona Vengeance #3) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

Posted on February 5, 2019 by Sandy

Legend (Arizona Vengeance #3) by Sawyer Bennett-Review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 5, 2019

The Arizona Vengeance is hockey’s hottest new team. But hockey’s hottest goalie is learning that even the best players sometimes need an assist.

Everything is clicking for the Vengeance. We may be new, but we’re well on our way to winning the championship, and I’m having the time of my life headlining the sports media as the hottest goalie—hell, player—ever. I for one am going to live up to my name . . . because I am Legend Bay.

Dragging my ass home from the gym, I’m blinded by some gaudy, glowing holiday lights. As usual, my hot-as-hell neighbor Pepper Nantais has gone way over the top. But just as I’m about to tell her off, something else catches my eye . . . Seems like Santa left me a present, and not one I was expecting.

As life takes an unexpected turn, I realize that there’s much more to Pepper than meets the eye. Sure, she’s gorgeous. And exasperating. And her taste in decorating may be a bit . . . unique.

But beneath her carefree demeanor is a fierce determination and a heart of gold. And before I know it I’ve fallen for her. Hard . . .

Pepper is exactly the woman I never knew I needed.

••••••••••

REVIEW: LEGEND is the third instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the members of the Arizona Vengeance professional hockey team. This is Vengeance goalie Legend Bay, and children’s book author and artist Pepper Nantais. LEGEND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for the history between and about the characters. There is a slight-cross over with the author’s Cold Fury Hockey series.

Told from dual first person points of view (Legend and Pepper) LEGEND follows in the wake of a surprise ‘gift’ on Legend’s front porch. Struggling with the logistics, the responsibility, and the unpreparedness of the situation, Legend arrives at his neighbor’s front door desperate for help and immediate support. Enter colorful and feisty Pepper Nantais, and the woman with whom Legend will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Pepper and Legend, and the potential fall-out as Pepper is targeted by a woman from Legend’s past.

Legend Bay has a hate on for his obnoxious neighbour Pepper Nantais, a woman who pushes all of his buttons with her gaudy outdoor displays, especially during the holiday season, but hate may be too strong of a word, as Legend’s attraction to Pepper is matched by the palpable and intense sexual attraction between the leading characters.

The relationship between Pepper and Legend is an enemies to lovers, of a sorts, enemies predicated on Pepper’s outlandish style and Legend’s inability to accept what is. As Pepper becomes a more permanent fixture in Legend’s life, the sexual attraction can no longer be denied. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but, once again, I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.

All of the previous story line couples, and characters play secondary and supporting characters including Bishop and Brooke, Erik and Blue, Tacker Hall, Dax Monahan and coach Claude Perron. We are introduced to Legend’s parents Wendy and Nathan Bay; Pepper’s parents Richard and Meryl Nantais; Legend’s former girlfriend Lida Martin; Lucy and Charlie.

The world building continues to focus on the players, the game, the camaraderie and the relationships of the Arizona Vengeance. The premise is entertaining, emotional and uplifting; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are energetic, strong and sassy. LEGEND is a spicy, spirited and heart warming addition to Bennett’s ARIZONA VENGEANCE.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend

Copy supplied by Netgalley

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.

Now or Never (San Francisco Thunder #4) by Victoria Denault-a review

Posted on January 13, 2019 by Sandy

Now or Never (San Francisco Thunder #4) by Victoria Denault-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 15, 2019

From the bestselling author of the Hometown Players series comes a sexy romance about a bad boy hockey player who wants a second chance to win the heart of his high school crush.

All Winnie Braddock wants is a quiet place to be alone and time to heal her battered heart. But the refuge she’d hoped for in her family’s summer cottage is destroyed when she gets there to find Holden Hendricks literally camped out in the driveway. He made her life hell when they were kids, and despite what he says, it doesn’t look like much has changed. She doesn’t care if her brother hired Holden to renovate the house this winter; she wants him gone.

You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take. Holden knows that hockey saying all too well. After all, he could have gone pro if he hadn’t messed up so much as a kid. But now he’s desperate to prove he’s changed for the better, especially to Winnie Braddock. As the two work together to fix the cottage piece by piece, they realize that perhaps they can give each other the new beginning they’ve both been waiting for-if they’re just willing to take the shot.

••••••••

REVIEW: NOW OR NEVER is the fourth instalment in Victoria Denault’s contemporary, adult SAN FRANCISCO THUNDER romance series. This is thirty year old, home renovator Holden Hendricks, and twenty-nine year old, primary school teacher Winnie Braddock’s story line. NOW OR NEVER 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 (Winnie and Holden) NOW OR NEVER follows the enemies to lovers, acrimonious relationship between thirty year old, home renovator Holden Hendricks, and twenty-nine year old, primary school teacher Winnie Braddock. Years earlier Winnie’s brother Jude’s best friend Holden Hendrick’s made Winnie’s life a living h*ll. Teasing and bullying escalated until the day Winnie punched Holden and broke his nose. Fast forward to present day wherein Holden Hendrick’s has returned to his home town, unwelcome and without forgiveness for sins of the past. When given the opportunity to renovate and repair the Braddock’s family cottage in Maine Holden will come face to face with his past, a past that is unwilling to forgive and forget. Enter Winnifred Braddock, and the woman with whom Holden will fall in love. What ensues is the tempestuous relationship between Holden and Winnie, and the potential fall-out as secrets and the inability to trust continue to push Holden at every turn.

Holden Handricks’ life was destroyed when at the age of ten, his mother died in a freak accident. Angry and grieving, for the next several years, Holden lashed out at everyone and everything, including our story line heroine. Holden’s earlier self-destruction destroyed any chance of turning professional in the game he loved, a game he sacrificed for someone else. Hoping to make amends to everyone back home, the constant rejection was difficult and painful. Winnie Braddock just buried her beloved father and is unable to let go of the grief and pain. Breaking up with her boyfriend of eleven years meant Winnie wanted time alone never thinking she would spend weeks with a man she decreed her mortal enemy. Living side by side Winnie would soon discover that the man with whom she is falling in love is not the same, angry boy whose actions turned her life upside down.

The relationship between Winnie and Holden is acrimonious at best. Their bitter and caustic back and forth is fuelled by Winnie’s inability to trust, and the reminder of a time long ago when Holden did everything to push Winnie’s buttons. Secrets from the past, and Winnie’s issues of trust continue to dog our couple throughout the story. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to Winnie’s brother Jude and his wife Zoey (Scored #1), and their sisters Dixie and Eli (Slammed #2), Sadie and Griffin (When It’s Right #3); as well as a Winnie’s friend and townie Cat’ Holden’s sister Bradie and her son Duke, and a couple of Holden’s friends from the past.

The world building departs from hockey and the San Francisco Thunder. Holden was a rising star in the junior hockey leagues but life choices destroyed any chances for a professional career, a career every knows would have been as successful as Jude’s.

NOW OR NEVER is a story of family and friendship, death and loss, forgiveness and moving forward. The character driven premise is engaging and spirited; the characters are broken, flirty and real; the romance is moving and emotional. NOW OR NEVER reveals the pain of childhood trauma; the regret of sins and bullying; and the second chances for two people hurt by words and loss. On the flip side, I struggled with the heroine’s immature attitude throughout most of the story, sometimes too much childish behaviour is difficult to accept.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book three-WHEN IT’S RIGHT

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Erik (Arizona Vengeance #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

Posted on November 6, 2018 by Sandy

ERIK (Arizona Vengeance #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

ERIK
Arizona Vengeance #2
by Sawyer Bennett
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, hockey, romance
Release Date: November 5, 2018

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 5, 2018

The Arizona Vengeance are developing a reputation on the ice as one of hockey’s top teams. But one player’s reputation offthe ice might just keep him from scoring. . . .

I’m having the time of my life with my new brothers on the Arizona Vengeance. We may be an expansion team, but after notching some big wins, the entire league knows to watch out for Erik Dalhbeck. That’s me.

The only person who doesn’t seem to think I’m so great? Blue Gardner, the hot-as-f*** flight attendant on our team plane. I sure wouldn’t mind joining the mile-high club with her, but besides bringing me lukewarm coffee, she won’t give me the time of day. Whatever I did to rub Blue the wrong way, my teammates think it’s hilarious. After all, we’re used to women flocking to us. #puckbunnies

When I run into Blue back on land, I’m shocked to learn how she spends her time off: taking care of her handicapped brother. There are layers to this girl I never imagined, layers I can’t wait to peel away. And that’s a new feeling for me.

But first I’ve got to find a way to melt that ice-cold stare. Because as much as I try to pretend I don’t care what Blue thinks of me, how can you not care when you’re falling for someone?

•••••••••••

REVIEW: ERIK is the second instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE hockey, erotic romance series focusing on the men and women of the Arizona Vengeance professional hockey team. This is Arizona Vengeance team enforcer Erik Dalhbeck, and flight attendant Blue Gardner’s storyline. ERIK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. The Arizona Vengeance is a spin –off from the author’s Carolina Cold Fury Hockey series.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Erik and Blue) ERIK follows the second chance relationship (of a sorts) between Arizona Vengeance team enforcer Erik Dalhbeck, and flight attendant Blue Gardner. Five years earlier Erik and Blue spent one wild night together but in the ensuing time Erik doesn’t remember meeting the beautiful woman who has caught his eye. Fast forward to present day wherein Blue is now a flight attendant on the Arizona Vengeance team airplane, and wants nothing to do with the man who broke her heart. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Erik and Blue, and the potential fall-out as Blue battles between head and heart, and obligations back home.

Blue Gardner has a hate-on for Arizona Vengeance player Erik Dalhbeck, and Erik has no idea as to the how and why but when Blue reveals the truth about their past, Erik struggles to remember the girl from years before. Hoping for a second chance Erik begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, and in the process learns a little more about Blue’s life back home.

The relationship between Erik and Blue is one of second chances (of a sort). Erik’s interest in Blue is immediate; the palpable sexual attraction is evident to his teammates and friends. Blue has been captivated by the man who all but destroyed her heart but our heroine is reluctant to open up to the man who doesn’t remember their time together years before. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Blue’s brother Billy, a young man who struggles with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy; fellow flight attendants Sadie, Lyla and Valerie; Erik’s father Pierce Dalhbeck; as well as the players for the Arizona Vengeance: GM Christian Rutherford, Team captain Tacker Hall, Bishop Scott and his girlfriend Brooke (Bishop #1), Dax Monahan, and Legend Bay; and Legend’s neighbour Pepper. Legend’s story is next in LEGEND.

LEGEND is a story of family, friendship, second chances and love. The premise is sexy and spicy; the characters are sassy and spirited; the romance is captivating and sensual. LEGEND is an animated and energetic story-a great addition to Sawyer Bennett’s world of professional hockey.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-BISHOP.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

When It’s Right (San Francisco Thunder #3) by Victoria Denault-a review

Posted on August 16, 2018 by Sandy

WHEN IT’S RIGHT (San Francisco Thunder #3) by Victoria Denault

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 14, 2018

IT’S ALL A MATTER OF TIMING

Griffin Sullivan is handling the ultimate balancing act. Between being a single dad to an active six-year-old and the crazy demands of his job as a hockey coach, finding love is not in the cards. But when the team’s goalie is rushed to the ER, he’s immediately captivated by the gorgeous, sassy nurse on duty… who just happens to be the sister of one his players.

Sadie Braddock has always had a big, open heart and a bit of a wild side. But since her dad got sick, she’s closed herself off to life and love. Relationships are way too complicated – and so is Griffin. He’s also funny and tender and sexy as hell. How can something that feels so right come at the worst time ever? Then again, someone to lean on may be exactly what they each need – if they’re only brave enough to take the risk

•••••

REVIEW: WHEN IT’S RIGHT is the third instalment in Victoria Denault’s contemporary, adult SAN FRANCISCO THUNDER hockey, erotic, romance series focusing on the Braddock siblings and the San Francisco Thunder professional hockey team. This is thirty-something, hockey coach and single father Griffin Sullivan, and twenty-seven year old, ER nurse Sadie Braddock’s story line. WHEN IT’S RIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Griffin and Sadie) WHEN IT’S RIGHT follows the building relationship between hockey coach Griffin Sullivan, and ER nurse Sadie Braddock. Just your typical night in the local ER finds Sadie Braddock facing her future when her sister’s boyfriend and the goalie for the San Francisco Thunder Eli Casco, is side-lined with a possible concussion. Enter the team’s goalie coach Griffin Sullivan, and the man with whom Sadie will fall in love. What ensues is the slow building relationship between Sadie and Griffin, and the potential fall-out as Sadie struggles with family responsibility, and Griffin’s past makes for some difficult situations.

Sadie Braddock battles between head and heart with her attraction to Griffin Sullivan. Sadie’s father struggles with ever worsening ALS, and our heroine takes full responsibility for the family, their problems, and her father’s continuing care. A martyr to the end, Sadie forgoes any personal happiness in an effort to ensure she is close at hand. Griffin Sullivan, single father, hockey coach and former professional goalie has his sights set on Sadie Braddock but troubles with his ex-wife begin to spiral out of control pulling Sadie into a potential media nightmare if Griffin isn’t able to reign in his former spouse.

The relationship between Sadie and Griffin is a case of insta-lust but slow to develop as Sadie fights her attraction to Griffin in an effort to remain available for her father’s care. A persistent Griffin will finally convince Sadie to take a chance on love, a chance that will be derailed by Sadie’s need to be close to home. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Jude Braddock and Zoey (Score #1), Dixie Braddock and Eli Casco (Slammed #2), sister Winnie, as well as their parents Enid and Randy Braddock; Griffin’s daughter Charlie his brother Hunter, Griffin’s ex-wife Lauren, and her boyfriend Cale. The Braddock family camaraderie is spirited and real.

WHEN IT’S RIGHT is a thought provoking tale of family, responsibilities, emotions and love. The premise is intelligent and engaging; the romance is spicy and hot; the characters are sassy, fun and energetic although Sadie’s need to martyr herself was questionable although understandable because there is always one child / one sibling that takes on more responsibility than all of the rest. WHEN IT’S RIGHT is an impassioned look at a debilitating disease that affects every member of the family, and the people they love.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Bishop (Arizona Vengeance #1) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

Posted on August 14, 2018 by Sandy

BISHOP (Arizona Vengeance #1) by Sawyer Bennett-Review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 14, 2018

Meet the Arizona Vengeance, hockey’s hottest new team. They’re burning up the ice—until a one-night-stand with the coach’s daughter freezes one player in his skates.

Bishop Scott, co-captain. Not too shabby, huh? It’s all part of my fresh start with the NHL’s latest expansion team, and that means new teammates, a new coach, a new city, and a big new contract. Basically, I cannot f***ing wait to show my old squad what they’re missing.

But first, I decide to check out the town before the grind begins. Turns out Arizona chicks are totally smokin’, and I’m fortunate enough to meet one who’s looking for the same thing I am: a night of anonymous, unforgettable, no-strings-attached sex.

Fast forward to the Vengeance arena. It’s the last place I expect to see her again—let alone in her own office. Then bells go off and I finally realize who this girl is: Brooke Perron. My new coach’s daughter. All of a sudden, we’re picking up right where we left off, which means our hands are all over each other. That’s when her dad—my boss—walks in. And before I can get a word out, Brooke’s introducing me as her fiancé.

Sure, she just saved my ass. So why do I get the feeling Brooke’s going to turn my world upside down? Maybe it’s because this fake relationship feels way too real.

•••••••••

REVIEW: BISHOP is the first instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE erotic, hockey, romance series focusing on the men and women of the professional hockey team the Arizona Vengeance. This is twenty-eight year old, Arizona Vengeance co-captain Bishop Scott, and team merchandising director Brooke Perron’s story line. The Arizona Vengeance is a spin-off from the author’s Carolina Cold Fury Hockey series.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Brooke and Bishop) BISHOP follows the fake relationship between Arizona Vengeance co-captain Bishop Scott, and team merchandising director Brooke Perron. The Arizona Vengeance is the NHL’s newest expansion hockey team, and one of their brightest new stars partakes of a one-night stand that quickly develops into something more. Bishop Scott will come face to face with his coach’s daughter, Brooke Perron but getting caught in a compromising position finds Brooke blurting out that she and Bishop were in it for the long haul. What ensues is the fake relationship between Brooke and Bishop, and the potential fall-out as a vindictive woman tries to destroy them all.

Brooke Perron, hoping to save Bishop from her father’s wrath reveals to Coach Perron that she and Bishop had been secretly dating, and were recently engaged to be married. Hoping to keep the ruse up for a little while longer, Brooke and Bishop reveal to a few close friends the truth about the entire situation but betrayal comes at a cost to the Arizona franchise.

The relationship between Brooke and Bishop begins as a one-night stand that quickly morphs into something more-from friendship to the reality of falling in love, Brooke and Bishop find themselves looking towards a future but a future that will hit a road bump when vengeance turns ugly, directed at everyone concerned. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate; the sexual tension is palpable without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to a large number of colorful and animated characters including Brooke’s widowed father and team coach David Perron; Bishop’s mother Marianne; and Brooke’s former co-worker Nanette; as well as the players for the Arizona Vengeance: GM Christian Rutherford, Team captain Tacker Hall, Dax Monahan, Erik Dalhbeck, and Legend Bay.

BISHOP is a flirty, fun but predictable story line that is following a similar pattern to her previous series. The premise is engaging; the romance is hot and steamy; the characters are dynamic and charismatic. BISHOP is an intimate look at two people caught between the truth and a lie that continues to snowball out of control.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Tag Archives: hockey

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