Tag Archives: Play by Play

Shot on Gold by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
32

Shot on Gold by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
Will “Mad Dog” Madigan is making his second trip to the Winter Games, and he couldn’t be happier. Hockey is his life and playing for the U.S. team is a privilege. Then he meets U.S. figure skater Amber Sloane. She’s beautiful, ambitious and driven–everything Will desires in a woman. He would love to show Amber how hot life off the ice can be.

Amber has skated her entire life, sacrificing everything in the hopes of one day winning gold. Now she’s competing for the third and final time. She intends to win, and nothing’s going to get in her way–until she meets Will. He’s an irresistible charmer, and before long Amber is wondering if this sexy hockey player is the perfect guy to show her some moves outside the rink.

But after all the medals have been awarded, Will and Amber will have to decide if what they have together is just a fling or a real shot at true love.

 

Review:

I loved Shot on Gold by Jaci Burton.  For the sports fan in me it had a little of everything as it centered around the Olympics.  Plus, with the Olympics and Para Olympics having taken place this year it was a double whammy of sports for me, and very easy to get caught up with the storyline in this one.  Of course it also helped that the hero in this one was a hockey player as I love hockey, and the heroine was a figure skater and that’s one Olympic sport I love to watch.  So needless to say this was an added bonus of a read for me, and with it being a Burton novel I knew I was in for a fun adventure with a hot romance.

Shot on Gold featured Will Madigan a hockey player on the U.S. hockey team, and Amber who was going for gold in her sport of figure skating.  Two very opposite people in terms of personalities yet equal in their competitive nature due to their sports, and being able to understand each others crazy schedules and daily demands. I found Will and Amber very easy to like and associate with.  They made for a fun and exciting couple who were able to keep the story moving forward, while providing the steamy sexual chemistry one comes to associate with a Burton novel.  These two not only burned things up on the ice, but they did so in the bedroom too. 

Along with the romance between Will and Amber Jaci provided us with a stellar cast of secondary characters, some whom we’ve met in previous books and some new ones.  She brought fourth the whole Olympic atmosphere with all these characters by showcasing the various sports, the stress, tension, dedication, commitment, excitement of winning and the disappointment of loosing that these athletes go through on a daily basis to be the best they can be in their respective sports, and what it means to represent their country on the world stage.  She also showed the camaraderie between the athletes and how they become friends traveling on their respective circuits competing and cheering each other on, even though they are representing their respective countries. It was a lot of fun reading those parts of the story because it made me feel like I was there in the Olympic village with all the athletes going through the emotions, and sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see if they were going to win or not.  

Jaci Burton has a knack for writing sports themed romances.  You can tell she’s a sports fan and it shows through in her action scenes. You actually feel like you are there playing the sport or cheering the hero or heroine on.  The characters always manage to carry the story with ease and get the reader involved from the get go and Will and Amber where no different. They made you get invested in them as a couple and stay with them every step of the way to see if they’d get their win the gold for their sport and get their HEA.  For a sports junkie like me Shot on Gold was a great read, and must read for anyone who loves their sports as much as I do. 

Until next time, happy reading everyone!

Reviewed by Marcie

 

Jaci’s publisher is offering a paper copy of SHOT ON GOLD to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE:  If you are having difficulty commenting after logging-in, please refresh the page at the top of your computer.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jaci Burton on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway open to USA only.

8. Giveaway runs from April 12 – 17, 2018

IMPORTANT
With increasing frequency, many potential giveaway recipients have not been responding to our winner’s email notifications, and we suspect that our emails are going to spam.
 
After 72 hours, and several attempts to contact the potential winners, in all fairness to the authors, publishers and other entrants, we are forced to choose another name, and the original intended recipient forfeits their chance for the particular prize.
 
To protect yourself against a possible loss of prize notification, please add the following emails to your ‘safe’ and approved list of senders in your email address books:
 
Please check your junk and spam emails often before sending anything to trash.
 
barb@thereadingcafe.com
 
sandy@thereadingcafe.com
 
mail@thereadingcafe.com

 

Share

Rules of Contact by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
33

Rules of Contact by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Rules of Contact Banner

RULES OF CONTACT
Play by Play #12
by Jaci Burton
Genre: adult, contemporary, sports, romance
Release Date: December 6, 2016

 

Rules of ContactAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
A football player with all the right moves on the field needs a better game plan for his love life.

A defensive end for the San Francisco Sabers, Flynn Cassidy is used to being in the spotlight—he just doesn’t enjoy it. But if getting in front of the cameras will help his new restaurant succeed, he’s willing. Now if he could just meet a woman who loved him and not his fame…

After her divorce, Amelia Lawrence is thrilled to start over as head chef at Ninety-Two. It’s just the opportunity she needs to heat up her career—if only she wasn’t wildly attracted to her sexy new boss. Their chemistry might be sizzling hot, but Amelia has no intention of being burned again.

Amelia is genuine and fun and Flynn can’t get enough of her—and Amelia loves every second she spends with the tough but tender Flynn. But trust is a hard fought battle for both of them. Breaking the rules of contact and surrendering to their passion was easy, but are they willing to risk their hearts to win at the game of love?

 

Review;

Have I mentioned in past reviews how much I love this series?  Jaci Burton has done it again, and found another hit story with Rules of Contact.  This book is once again filled with well-defined characters, cameo appearances from past characters, a strong sense of family, storyline and a steamy romance.  I swear her keyboard must start smoking and set off fire alarms after she’s typed a sex scene, because Amelia and Flynn definitely brought the heat in this one.  Even though they did steam up the pages in this one when they are together, Jaci also lets the reader learn about our hero and heroine regarding their past relationships and how they get to be where they are by books end.  Both Flynn and Amelia have issues regarding trust and understanding due to various reasons; Amelia it’s her failed marriage, and for Flynn it’s his career and the fame that comes with it.  He wants someone to see him, Flynn Cassidy, not Flynn Cassidy the football player and the fame that comes with his career.  Amelia just wants someone to love and respect her and see her as an equal with a career of her own. 

I loved both Flynn and Amelia from the get go.  I found they balanced each other out and made a fun and charming couple.  Amelia is a strong, independent woman, who can make decisions for herself and knows what she wants both in a career and personal matters of the heart.  She’s also funny and quirky and seeing her flirt, banter and pretty much drive poor Flynn crazy trying to figure her out was amusing.  I liked that she kept him unbalanced at times and caused him to look deeper into who she really is.  Flynn, well what can I say about Mr. Cassidy besides the fact he’s smoking hot and irresistible to the female race.  No really, Flynn is every women’s dream; sweet, charming, respectable, caring, heart of gold, tough on the outside with a teddy bear interior.  Flynn just wants what’s best for Amelia and wants to make her happy.  Like I said, who wouldn’t want a man like Flynn Cassidy?  Plus he can cook, damn right I want a man like this.  Speaking of cooking, there were times Ms. Burton had me salivating for a taste of what her characters were cooking either at Flynn’s restaurant, or just at their respective homes.  My only complaint about this book is that it didn’t come with the recipes to the various dishes both Amelia and Flynn created in the book.  I could seriously see me attempting these dishes if only I had the recipes to go with them, lol!!  Sorry, I digress once again, now where was I?

Ah yes, back to my review; another aspect of Rules of Contact I enjoyed was catching up with past couples from this series as they made cameo appearances to help further Amelia and Flynn’s story.  I think one of my favourite parts of this one, and all the books about the Cassidy siblings is when they go home to visit on the family ranch. The family dynamic is one that anyone would want to be a part of.  The siblings are all pro athletes, love to tease and razz each other, but love one another deeply and will be there for each other no matter what.  The sibling rivalries and camaraderie just flows off the page and makes you feel like part of their family.  It really is a fun part of the story, and one I look forward to every time I get to read about one of the Cassidy siblings.  They really do have a cool family.

Rules of Contact is a delightful and fun addition to the Play by Play series by Jaci Burton.  It had everything one comes to expect from Burton’s Play by Play series; smoking hot athletes, strong independent women, a fun storyline filled with strong family ties, fast furious sports action, flirty/playful banter between our couple that leads to a steamy romance and a HEA.  For any fan of Jaci Burton you can’t go wrong with Rules of Contact.

Until next time, happy reading my fellow sports fans!!

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveaway

Jaci’s publisher is offering a paper copy of RULES OF CONTACT to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE:  If you are having difficulty commenting after logging-in, please refresh the page at the top of your computer.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jaci Burton on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway open to USA only.

8. Giveaway runs from December 16th – 19th, 2016

Share

Unexpected Rush by Jaci Burton – a Review

Posted on by
13

Unexpected Rush by Jaci Burton – a Review

 

Unexpected RushAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
For Barrett Cassidy, playing defense for the Tampa Hawks is a dream come true. And now he may have discovered his dream woman. Harmony Evans, once the sweet, gawky teenage sister of his best friend and teammate has grown into a smart, gorgeous woman with moves he finds hard to resist. But he knows he can’t get involved with his best friend’s sister—it’s guy code.

Harmony has always gone after what she wants with single-minded determination, from her independence to her education to her career in interior design. She never expected her youthful crush on Barrett to develop into something deeper. And she’s not about to let some ridiculous man rules or her brother stand in her way.

When the chemistry is this combustible, lines tend to get crossed. And when Barrett and Harmony’s secret gets out, it just might be game over…

 

 

Review:

I absolutely love this series. Jaci Burton has managed to pen another fun, flirty and sexy as hell story for Barrett and Harmony. We met Barrett in the previous couple of books as a supporting character, as this portion of the series has been focusing on the Cassidy siblings, all pro athletes. When it comes to sports and romance, Jaci seems to have the market cornered. Once again she does a bang on job of balancing romance with high-energy sports scenes.   Not that the sex scenes in this one aren’t high energy, because let me tell you, Barrett and Harmony were steaming up almost every other page once they finally gave into temptation and decided to start seeing each other.  

Both Barrett and Harmony are well developed characters who carried the story without much effort. From their first scene together in chapter one sparks started flying between them and it just took off from there. Barrett and Harmony are both driven professionally(Barrett a pro football player, Harmony an interior designer) and passionately. They know what they like both in and out of the bedroom and aren’t afraid to go after it. Well, except for Barrett at first because of the all important ‘guy code’ he’s afraid to cross. Barrett is worried that getting involved with Harmony will damage his friendship with her brother Drake and he’s also Barrett’s defense partner on the football field. Watching Barrett try and dodge Harmony’s advances and remind her of the ‘guy code’ was hilarious and one could see there was no way the ‘guy code’ was winning out.

As their romance proceeds at a hot and heavy rate I was on pins and needles waiting for the moment Drake found out about Harmony and Barrett. Meeting Drake and learning about him in this one, you knew it would be explosive between him and Barrett when he finally found out, and Jaci didn’t disappoint.   It was a hell of a scene and well written. Not only was that scene well done, but the scenes to follow absolutely stole my heart and my breath. Watching Barrett man up and finally do the right thing by fixing things between him and Drake, him and his future mother-in-law and then him and Harmony was well worth the wait. The speech he gives to Drake was moving and heartfelt between two friends, but his apology and groveling to Harmony about how he handled their relationship spoke volumes and had me tearing up a little. Then onto his proposal, oh my, what a proposal, I was gushing over it. If I guy did that for me and said the things Barrett said, I’d be able to say I truly found my Prince Charming, because Barrett definitely turned out to be Harmony’s Prince. I’ve never read a more romantic proposal then Barrett’s to Harmony, bravo Ms. Burton.

Unexpected Rush is a wonderful installment to this series. It had everything in it that I come to expect from a Burton novel; a fun flirty adventure packed with high energy sports scenes, a sexy steamy romance, amazing cast of secondary characters to help advance the story, the fun sibling rivalry between the Cassidy brothers, and the importance of family. For the sport lover in me, I only wish there was a little more sports action like in her previous novels, but all in all I was a happy camper reading this one. If the added scenes with Flynn and his new head chef for his new restaurant were any kind of hint for her next Play-by-Play novel, then I think we will be in for a treat when Flynn’s book comes out hopefully next year. I’ll keep you all posted.

Until next time, happy reading sports fans!

Reviewed by Marcie

Share

Hot Holiday Nights by Jaci Burton – a Review

Posted on by
13

Hot Holiday Nights by Jaci Burton – a Review

 

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Victoria “Tori” Baldwin is a successful sports agent whose career has always come first. She enjoys her work, her clients, and, on the occasional free night, a love life that’s short, hot, and uncomplicated.

While unwinding over Christmas in Hawaii, she chances upon a surfing competition, and all the lean hard men that come with it—especially Alex McConnell, a young surfer at the top of his game, and Ben Reynolds, ex-surfer and Alex’s business manager. The physical attraction Tori feels to these two completely different men is off the charts. They’re smart, sexy, and the nights are filled with the hottest passion Tori has ever felt.

Soon, Alex and Ben will move on to the next big wave and Tori will head back east. But as the days and nights go by, Alex and Ben’s feelings for Tori start to swell. Tori’s feeling it, too, and for the first time ever, she’s thinking twice about the men she’ll leave behind.

It won’t be long before this hot threesome has to decide if the romantic wave they’ve been riding is nothing more than a vacation fling, or the kind of love that could change all their lives forever.

 

Review:

Gulping down glass of ice water while fanning self….Hot Holiday Nights by Jaci Burton is one very steamy, and hot romantic read. Just when I thought Jaci couldn’t put anymore steam into her already steamy stories, she goes and proves me wrong. I swear each scene between Tori, Alex and Ben just kept getting hotter and hotter. I actually thought my poor Kobo was going to start shooting out flames at one point, LOL!! Having said that, I must also say that, as hot as her sex scenes get, they don’t come across as vulgar, over the top, or cheap. Jaci has a certain style to her writing that to me, makes the scenes relevant to her characters growing attraction and feelings to one another.  Sure in this particular story, the relationship between Tori and Alex, and Tori and Ben starts off as a just a holiday fling, a time to unwind and have fun, but as the story progress we get to see a the growing bond of not only friendship developing between our trio, but also respect for each other, admiration, trust, and the all important love factor. What really got me, was the ease in which both Ben and Alex accept each other’s love towards Tori and decide that they will tell her they love her together and let the chips fall where they may.

Alex and Ben are two very strong male characters, yet never once were they jealous of Tori’s growing attraction to the other. They just accepted the relationship the way it was, and being a trio in a relationship really worked for all of them. There was no awkwardness in any of their scenes together, they just clicked from the first scenes they were in, and the story progressed from there. It was a fast, roller coaster of a ride for Tori, Ben and Alex, but in the end, they all fell in love and are able to make it work between them. It’s a very easy going, laid back relationship, where they take care of each other, respect each other’s needs and wants in a relationship without anything ever getting sticky, or weird between them. I was really hoping that when Ben and Alex went to tell Tori how they felt that one wouldn’t be left out in the cold. I wanted her to choose both men, and find a way to make it work, and that’s just what Tori did. I loved the necklace they gave her for a Christmas gift, a gold chain with three diamonds and the world ‘Ours’ in the middle, thought it fitting and very romantic.

Hot Holiday Nights, is a fast and steamy read, with lots of surfing action, well developed characters and storyline given the fact that it’s a novella. Sometimes I feel shorter stories can be rushed and feel like the characters are just pushed at one another. This isn’t the case here. Somehow Jaci manages to let the reader learn who these three characters are, and create a love story that doesn’t feel rush or pushed on us. Hot Holiday Nights is a short story where everything just clicks and falls into place from the first scene. Being a fan of Jaci’s Play-by-Play series, I really enjoyed this addition to the collection and am eagerly anticipating her next one in the series.

Until next time, happy reading!!!

Reviewed by Marcie

 

Share

Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
36

Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

 

Quarterback Draw Banner

 

QuarterbackDraw FEb 15jpgAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Playing For Keeps

 Grant Cassidy knows how to be a football star—flash that dazzling smile, throw the winning pass, get the girl. But while the hot quarterback loves the game and the lifestyle, no woman has come close to catching his heart.  Then he matches wits with a smart, gorgeous model, and Grant finds himself wanting more than a fling.

Supermodel Katrina Koslova might live in a world of glitz and camera flashes, but she works hard to provide for the family that relies on her. She doesn’t have time for fun—much less a boyfriend—but Grant seems determined to be the exception to Katrina’s rule. Their explosive chemistry is undeniable, but Katrina’s afraid to let go and rely on anyone but herself. Grant intends to ease her fears and prove he’s a man of style and substance.

Review:

Quarterback Draw is book 9 in Jaci Burton’s Play by Play series and I can only say this series just keeps getting better and better. Jaci never ceases to amaze me with her ability to write a sports themed story complete with a hot romance between her main couple. This time up its pro football player Grant Cassidy and supermodel Katrina Koslova. All I can say is these two steamed up the pages from their first meeting. The chemistry between Grant and Katrina is off the charts and gets hotter and hotter as their relationship progresses. I absolutely loved the relationship between Grant and Katrina, they are two well balanced characters who couldn’t be more perfect for one another. Another plus in Jaci’s column is her ability to write the perfect match in her hero and heroine. Somehow they always seem to balance each other out and make each other’s lives better for it. Even though their chemistry is combustible and off the charts, Jaci doesn’t rush a thing between them. Another thing I enjoy about Jaci’s stories, she never rushes the romance, she lets it build and simmer until the perfect moment in the story and then it’s no holds bared between our couple. The romance takes off and there’s no turning back, which is how it plays out between Grant and Katrina.

One of the things I liked most about this relationship is Grant’s patience, tenderness and romancing of Katrina. Even though she’s a world class supermodel, she’s had a tough go of life, having to raise her brother and sister from when she was 18. Which meant she pretty much put her social life on hold to make sure her siblings had a good chance at life. When Grant learns she’s a virgin, he doesn’t question her reasons, instead he listens to all she has to say, understands her and decides to be the best damn teacher when it comes to sex. Let me just say, I’d let him be my teacher any day 😉 Grant definitely knows what he’s doing in the bedroom, along with being a kickass quarterback for his pro football team. Watching Grant and Katrina’s relationship develop slowly and passionately was a lovely treat to read. Jaci does a fantastic job of allowing Katrina to spread her wings in the romance department, while at the same time being a little apprehensive because she’s always got her siblings best interest at heart. She feels that whatever she does in her life will affect her siblings, so she’s always mindful of that. Katrina is a very endearing character that has the reader falling in lover with her from the start. She’s a female lead that any woman reading this story can relate to and respect. As for Grant, his character gives me hope for the male species. He’s just a wonderful human being, who’s chivalrous, kind hearted, knows how to treat a woman, is sexy as hell and a stellar athlete. I absolutely loved him and he had my toes curling on more then one occasion, he’s definitely swoon worthy material in my book.

Quarterback Draw is a well balanced and written story. The romance between Grant and Katrina is endearing and lovely to read. They really are the perfect couple. Like I said earlier their chemistry is off the charts and ensnares the reader from their first meeting. The secondary characters, Anya and Leo(Katrina’s siblings) and Grant’s family(parents and siblings) are loveable, give us more insight into our couple both as individuals and as a couple, while adding another dimension to the story. On top of a well written and passionate romance between Grant and Katrina Jaci also keeps us riveted with the sport side of things with every football game scene. She does a fabulous job of writing these scenes and making the reader feel like they are actually sitting in a football stadium cheering Grant on. How she manages to do that baffles me every time, but I couldn’t be happier with these scenes as I love my sports. All in all this is another successful addition to her Play by Play series and I for one can’t wait for the next installment. Next up is Grant’s brother Tucker and he’s a pro baseball player. One of my fave sports, and I’ll be sure to bring you all the play by play details about that one.

Until next time, happy reading.

Reviewed by Marcie

 

giveaway

Jaci’s publisher is offering a paper copy of QUARTERBACK DRAW to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

6. Please LIKE us on TSU for an additional entry.

7. Follow JACI BURTON  on Facebook.

8. Giveaway is open to USA only.

9. Giveaway runs from February 20-24, 2015

 

Share

Holiday On Ice (Play by Play 8.5) by Jaci Burton-a review

Posted on by
11

Holiday on Ice (Play by Play 8.5) by Jaci Burton-a review

Christmas Banner 2

Holiday on Ice
Book 8.5 in the Play-by-Play series
By Jaci Burton
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance, hockey
Release Date: November 18, 2014

Holiday on Ice

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Superstar hockey player Patrick “Trick” Niemeyer and dancer Stella Slovinski have picked up where they left off a year ago, resuming their hot, uncomplicated affair. Stella refuses to call it dating, or a relationship. But lately, Trick is looking for more…

Stella’s been burned before—in a relationship she never talks about—not with her family, not with her friends, and definitely not with Trick. But now it’s the holiday season and Trick is determined to give Stella his heart wrapped up in a bow. He knows Stella is the right woman for him, but he’ll have to melt the ice surrounding her heart to keep her from walking away.

••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW:

I just have to say, as much as I do love my paranormal and fantasy genre books, these sports themed stories by Jaci Burton are fast becoming my 2nd favourite genre. I just love her Play-by-Play series and Holiday on Ice is a nice addition to this very hot and steamy series. This novella is Stella and Trick’s story, and we were introduced to them in Melting the Ice. Even though Stella and Trick were secondary characters in Melting the Ice, it was very plain to see the chemistry and connection these two characters had with one another and I was very glad to see Ms. Burton has written a novella for them. Their story is one about love and hope lost, heartache, learning to believe in love and hope again, and going for what you truly believe in.

Stella and Trick are not only perfect for each other, but they burn up the pages in this one. Seriously, I don’t know how Ms. Burton’s keyboard, computer screen, etc, don’t catch fire when she writes this series. Her heroine and hero are combustible in this one, just like all her previous books in this series. The sexual chemistry sizzles through the pages between Trick and Stella from their first scene together when they walk back into each other’s lives.

Trick always knew there was something special about Stella and seeing her again, only proves to him he wants her back in his life on a permanent basis. He’s ready to leave behind his playboy image and get serious with one women, Stella. Now if only he can convince her of this. Stella having been badly hurt where love and her heart are concerned, doesn’t want to tread back into that area because it’s just too painful. However, seeing Trick again, and spending time with him is making it harder for her to keep her motto of, love’em and leave’em.

The romance between Stella and Trick is steamy to say the least, but also has a very sweet and charming side to it as well. Trick is the perfect hero, he’s strong, sexy as hell, charming, understanding and very patient with Stella. He knows she needs time and space and doesn’t rush her into anything. He knows she’s always had one foot out the door in this ‘relationship’ cause she refuses to call it a relationship. After a misunderstanding and coaxing from Trick, Stella finally opens up to him about her past relationship and love. The scene where they finally admit they love each other, and then when Stella opens up to Trick about her past are perfectly written. They were sweet, touching and very heartfelt. Having their story centered around the Christmas season is just the right touch. It gave them the chance to spend time together Christmas tree shopping, decorating the tree, playing in the snow, going ice skating and just having fun, falling in love with each other during a special time of the year and seeing what it would be like to be with that person everyday for the rest of their lives. These scenes just added another layer to a beautifully, charming and steamy storyline. Oh and lets not forget the hockey scenes. Since this is a sports themed story, and our hero is a sexy hockey player, those scenes were supercharged with engery and action and made me feel like I was sitting at Trick’s games with Stella cheering him on. What can I say, there’s just something about a man in a hockey uniform that gets me going. 😉

Once again Jaci Burton has written a fun, sexy, steamy, and fast paced story about romance, love and hockey. It kept me involved from start to finish, and made me feel like I was sitting in my local hockey arena cheering on my team. I just love these sports themed romances, and mixing in a little Christmas magic to this one was sheer perfection on Ms. Burton’s part IMO. Who can resist a sexy hockey player anyway. 😉

Until next time, happy reading and Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Reviewed by Marcie

About the Author

Follow Jaci: Goodreads /Website / Facebook

Jaci BurtonJaci Burton is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over 50 books. She lives in Oklahoma and when she isn’t on deadline (which is often), she can usually be found wrestling with her uncooperative garden, wrangling her dogs, watching an unhealthy amount of television, or completely losing track of time reading a great book. She’s a total romantic and longs for the happily ever after in every story, which you’ll find in all her books.. Visit her website at www.jaciburton.com for excerpts, her blog and contest information.

Share

Straddling the Line by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
51

Straddling the Line by Jaci Burton – Review & Giveaway

Straddling the Line Banner

Straddling the Line
Play by Play – Book #8
by Jaci Burton
Release Date: July 1, 2014

Straddling the LineAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
Trevor Shay has a successful career straddling the two sports he loves—football and baseball. He puts it all on the line for old friend Haven Briscoe, though, when she has a tough time getting her professional career together after the death of her father. Despite her misgivings, Haven accepts the assignment of doing a feature bio on Trevor, but he’s an attractive force of nature and there’s a lot more to him than meets the eye. Secrets are revealed and chemistry is added to the mix as they each help each other through some tough times.

 

Review:

What can I say, I’m a sports nut and this series couldn’t be more up my alley. I love a good story where the hero is an athlete, and once again Jaci Burton delivers with Straddling the Line. I don’t know how she does it, but book after book, she makes me feel as though I’m a part of the story and right there cheering her hero on as he plays his particular sport. Now, I’m a huge hockey and baseball fan, so her hockey and baseball centered stories are my favourites of hers, but I’ve enjoyed all her other books in her Play by Play series as well. Straddling the Line is book 8 in this popular series by Jaci Burton.

Once again, Jaci delivers on the hotness factor with her latest hero. Trevor Shay is the ultimate in athletes thanks to his sporting prowess in two sports, baseball and football.   The guy is a natural in both sports and somehow manages to juggle a dual sporting career. I loved Trevor from the get go in this one and only grew to love him more and more as the story went on. The guy is not only amazing on the field, but also in the bedroom. Let me just say you will need a pitcher of ice water and a fan close by when you read this one. Trevor definitely knows how to turn on the heat and make a girl loose any inhibitions she may have when it comes to sex. Ms. Burton brings the steam in this romance between Trevor and Haven. This couple burned up the pages in Straddling the Line. Just when you think they can’t get any hotter, they do, but these scenes also provide much needed insight into Trevor and Haven’s psyche’s regarding love and trusting someone else. Neither character has ever been in a long term relationship, or experienced feelings like this before, and seeing them explore them through a sexual relationship as well as friendship helps draw the reader even more into the story and allows us to get to know both characters even better.

As their relationship progresses we see Haven finally come to terms with the death of her father, and it’s Trevor that helps her to finally accept all that happened and what’s happened since her father’s passing. As Haven finally moves forward she starts to see Trevor in a new light, but at the same time realizes there’s a part of himself he’s not letting her see. It’s not until Haven accidentally backs him into a corner that she finally learns his secret. At first it looks as though things are finished between them but in true Burton fashion she allows the characters to work through the issue and see that they are better together then apart, and when Trevor and Haven both go to each other to make up, the scene is magic. There are no other words I can possibly use to describe that scene. I think Trevor had me tearing up a little when he was talking to Haven in that scene. These are two characters who are meant to be together and their journey to their HEA is beautifully written.

Once again Ms. Burton writes a fun, fast paced and emotional story that centers around a sports hero. Both hero and heroine are strong characters and compliment each other very nice in Straddling the Line. They hold their own, and are able to drive the story page after page, making the reader not want to put the book down. As an added bonus for any sports nut like I am, the sport footage scenes are well written and make you feel like you are at the ball field and foot ball stadiums watching Trevor play his two favourite sports. It was also nice to see some past characters return in this one and be a part of Trevor and Haven’s story. The scenes with these characters are fun and comical at times and also provided a nice balance to the emotional part of the story taking place between our hero and heroine. I’d say Ms. Burton has another hit on her hands with this current installment in her Play by Play series. I’m already looking forward to her next installment and I highly recommend this series.

Until next time, happy reading my little sports nuts. 😉

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Publisher


giveaway

Jaci and her publisher, Berkley, are offering a paper copy of Straddling the Line to one (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

 1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on  FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry

5. LIKE  Jaci Burton  on Facebook.

6. The giveaway is open to U.S. only.

7. The giveaway runs from July 16  to July 20, 2014

Share

Melting the Ice by Jaci Burton – a Review

Posted on by
13

Melting the Ice by Jaci Burton – a Review

Melting The Ice
Play by Play series – Book # 7
by Jaci Burton
Release Date: February 4, 2014

Melting the IceLinks to order Melting the Ice: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
Everything’s coming together for budding fashion designer Carolina Preston. Only months away from having her own line, she could use some publicity. That’s when her brother suggests his best friend as a model—hockey player Drew Hogan.
Carolina and Drew already have a history—a hot one, back in college. Unforgettable for Carolina, but for Drew, just another slap shot. This time, though, it’s different. His perfect body would be for professional use only. This time, she could use him.
Drew is all for it. He’s looking forward to the exposure. Plus, it would give him a chance to prove to Carolina that he’s changed. If only he could thaw her emotions, convince her to let down her guard and let him in just one more time…

Review:
For anyone who knows me, they know I love my sports, especially hockey.  So it shouldn’t come as a surprise I’m once again reviewing Melting the Ice, another hockey themed book by Jaci Burton. I just love her Play by Play series as every book has another hero who’s a professional athlete.  I had never heard of Jaci before her previous hockey themed book Taking a Shot which I reviewed for TRC, afterwards, I had to go back and read the others.  I wasn’t disappointed that I did, and am glad I’m trying to keep up with this series.   So when I heard she had another hockey themed book coming out, I couldn’t wait.  I had to read about her latest hockey hero Drew Hogan and his lady love, well, he wants her as his lady love, Carolina Preston. 

Drew and Carolina have a history dating back to a one night stand in college.  At the time Drew was spooked by his strong feelings for Carolina so like a coward he was back then, left and never contacted her again, and that didn’t sit well with Carolina.  Now it’s eight years later and she’s trying to make a mark in the fashion world, so when her brother Gray(One Sweet Ride) suggests his best friend and hockey star Drew Hogan as a model, Carolina isn’t so sure. However, once she sees him again, things really progress between them.  Ms. Burton really hit the mark with these two characters. They just brought the story to life with their personalities, witty banter, playfulness, sexual chemistry that was off the charts, and just a real sense of ease and comfort around each other. I found them to compliment and balance each other just right, but at the same time, each had their own edge to their personalities that drove them professionally and personally. I really liked these two characters and found the story just flew by for me because of it. It was so easy to sit back and read about these two characters and enjoy what was happening.  When a book can fly by like that for me, and before I know it I’m reading the last page, then I know I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve just read, but am sad I’m done that book so soon. 

The hero and heroine weren’t the only well written characters.  All the secondary characters in the book were equally as good and help to move the story along and add depth and personality to not only the story, but our main couple.  We get to see pieces of them through the eyes of the secondary characters.  We get to see Caronlina’s family again, and also get to see just how much her family has always seen Drew as family through his friendship with Gray.  Watching Gray first catch Caronlina in Drew’s bed at their family home over Christmas, then come to terms with their relationship was fun to watch.  He had that whole ‘big brother must protect little sister’ thing going on, very sweet.  It was also fun to watch Drew muddle his way through this relationship.  He’s your typical jock, who is more comfortable in his sport skin, then relationship skin.  He had me chuckling as I read the scene where he finally was attempting to admit his feelings to Carolina.  Even though he was doing a semi bad job at it and tripping over his words, I loved the scene for it was sweet and endearing and made me love Drew all the more for it. Watching Drew slowly whoo Carolina and get her to see he changed from college and is really ready to settle down and that she’s the only girl for him, can I just say swoon time.  Drew is so charming, fun, and sexy as hell, plus a professional hockey player, that spells perfect male for me. 

This was a fun and fast paced read for me. I loved every aspect of the book from beginning to end.  The slow to build romance, the fast paced hockey scenes and team mate camaraderie, playfulness between Drew and Carolina, and the off the charts chemistry and love scenes between them that left me needing a cold glass of water.  Let me just tell you, I will never be able to go to a hockey game again, or watch one on tv without thinking of the underwear photo shoot scene that Carolina did with Drew on the ice in front of the net, wooo baby…fanning self.  Once again Jaci has out done herself with this latest installment in her Play by Play series.  Now I have to wait a whole year before the next one comes out. 

Until next time, happy reading everyone

Reviewed by Marcie

 

Share