Book Review: The Cutting Edge (St. Pete Slashers) by Lisa Daily

The Cutting Edge by Lisa Daily is the first book in the St. Pete Slashers series. Logan Rivers is a star pro hockey player for the St. Pete Slashers -- and he's in a slump. He hasn’t scored in 3 games and it’s starting to freak him out. Enter Olympic figure skater Coco, who strikes a deal with an assistant coach to be Logan's lucky charm to pay off her training expenses. Sparks fly and everything is looking up for both of them. She’s almost got her debt paid off and the Slashers are on a winning streak. There's only one problem: she doesn’t know how to tell Logan she’s been lying to him the whole time. If she can just keep her secret until the playoffs are over.

The Cutting Edge started off strong and I thought it had a lot of potential. I liked Coco and her friends and could appreciate Logan's character. I loved his daughter, although I felt like more could have been done with her character. I liked the characters, thought the set up was neat, but once they added the 'conflict' I started to lose interest and some of the shine started to wear off for me. There were some moments that felt really out of character for both Coco and Logan, and about half way though the story I started to lose interested in how things were going to come together. I was looking for more information on how Coco's sick neighbor was doing, and the lives of the secondary characters more than our main players. 

The Cutting Edge started off great and had a lot of potential. I still think I'll give the next book in the series a try.

Book Review: Olympic Enemies by Rebecca J Caffery

Olympic Enemies by Rebecca J Caffery is a contemporary romance. Three weeks at the Olympic Village. Two Gymnasts who've been rivals for half a decade. Forced to share a room at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Oliver and Lucas are less than happy. After five years of fighting, the team needs them to learn to work together if they stand any chance of medalling. To make matters worse, Lucas, king of lone wolves, has absolutely no desire to become best friends with the three musketeers who make up the rest of the male British Gymnastics Team. So when the press becomes intrusive towards Lucas and Oliver finally steps in to defend him, things are looking up. Until that sliver of common ground truly demonstrates how thin the line between love and hate really can be. However, when their fighting turns to kissing which results in headlines in every newspaper and potential heartbreak for the pair, it isn’t just gold on the line -- it's their hearts.

Olympic Enemies is a un read with a nice balance of character and relationship development. I liked how well developed the main characters, and the most prevalent secondary character were. I thought the family and friendship ties, and the reasoning behind concerns and issues were all well built into the story. I liked the build up and resolution for the relationship between Oliver and Lucas. I thought the details about competitive gymnastics were well researched, and I loved getting a better understanding of what it can be like, and some of the stresses that the media and world in general can put towards those in the spotlight. I thought the team and coach dynamics were some of my favorite moments in the book, but I did find myself feeling like one secondary character was rather left out in the cold towards the end, and I would enjoy seeing them get some love in future books from the author. 

Olympic Enemies is an engaging and enjoyable read.

Book Review: Contract Season (Trade Season) by Cait Nary

Contract Season is the second book in the Trade Season series by Cait Nary. You do not have to have read the first book, Season's Change, to fully enjoy the read, but I really enjoyed it so I do recommend the read. 

Brody Kellerman has a plan. First, become the best defenseman in professional hockey. Second, get over his ex-boyfriend so he can focus on his game. Hooking up with the singer at his buddy’s wedding was the perfect solution, but it was never meant to be more than a one-night stand. Seamus Murry has never planned a thing in his life, including hooking up with a smoking-hot hockey player. Being ghosted sucks, but at least one good thing came from it, the breakout hit song of the summer. Now he’s one of country music’s brightest stars, but one slipup—or in this case, video—might cost him his career. When their video goes viral, Brody and Seamus agree to fake a relationship. But soon it's impossible to remember what is real and what's pretend, and although Brody has no intention of falling for freewheeling Seamus's charm, life doesn't always go according to plan.

Contract Season is a enjoyable and engaging read with characters that I really came to care about. I thought the issues and effort both Sea and Brody brought to the story were realistic and while not necessarily relatable on the surface, they each carried aspects that readers can connect with. The not feeling good enough, or that you are too much or different, and the worries about moving forward are all things readers can relate to despite the wealth and talent of the characters that readers do not necessarily share. I really enjoyed the set up and the secondary characters as much as the main plot line of the story. I thought the conversations between Sea and Brody, and of course with their support systems, modeled the communication, support, and consent that are so important with any relationship  and really made me happy. The balance between serious and fun moments was extremely well done, as was the amount of sweet and heaty. I cannot wait to see what the author does next.

Contract Season is a highly engaging and enjoyable read.

Book Review: Must Love Dogs...and Hockey by Kelly Jamieson

 

Must Love Dogs...and Hockey by Kelly Jamieson is a sports romance. Lilly: My life is like the love child of a train wreck and a dumpster fire right now. I’ve been canned, my professional reputation is shredded, and now I’m walking dogs to make ends meet. But I still believe everything will work out, somehow. Then a dog at the park attacks my friend’s dog. At first, I’m ready to give the owner hell—but it turns out he’s in desperate need of doggie daycare. I figure, why not? I love dogs and I need the cash. Too bad his cocky bad boy attitude annoys me. He’s too damn cute for his own good. And I’m not talking about the dog. Easton: My coach is riding my ass and I’m not handling it well. When I’m saddled with an abandoned pooch, my teammate thinks a dog will keep my temper in check. I think I have enough problems already. But when my new dog gets into a tussle that leads me to meet a smoking hot chick who knows how to handle the rascal, I start to think pet ownership isn’t all bad. At least it gives me an excuse to see Lilly again. Neither of us are interested in a relationship. First they steal your bed, then they steal your heart. And I’m not talking about the dog.

Must Love Dogs...and Hockey is a contemporary romance with a dash or pets and hockey. Lilly is down on her luck, and meeting Easton could change that, or make everything even worse. Add in an abusive coach, neurotic rescued pooch, and starting a new business walking dogs and everything is on the line. Facing down bad memories and worries for present and future while working toward a happy ending is far from simple, but these two stumble through it. I liked them each on their own, and as a couple. They each had plenty of baggage to unpack, and I liked when they supported each other as that happened, and when they had to work things out on their own. I will admit that I had trouble getting engaged with this book, but honestly it could very well have been me rather than the book. I liked the set up, and the characters, but I just could not see to get fully invested and then found the wrap up to be a little rushed. However, I also read this as I was going back to work in the building rather than from home, figuring out the school schedule for the kids- only to have it all change- and so on. I do plan on looking for the next book from the author, since there was a hint as to characters I want to see more of coming into play. So I think my mild disinterest comes more from me not being able to settle my mind, rather than the actual book.

Must Love Dogs...and Hockey is a romance with a good set up, interesting characters, and a nice dose of heat. I think I will need to revisit once things settle down a bit.

Audio Book Review: Scoring Off The Ice (Ice Kings) by Stacey Lynn Narrated by Meg Price, James Cassidy

Scoring Off The Ice is the second book in the Ice Kings series by Stacey Lynn. The audiobook is narrated by Meg Price and James Cassidy. Sometimes scoring off the ice leads to the greatest rewards. I’ve had only one goal in life since I first strapped on a pair of skates, make America’s pro hockey league. I left Denmark. I made it to the top. Now, I’m determined to be the best. No distractions. I eat, sleep, and breathe hockey. Until my birthday when my teammates convince me to live a little. But living a little takes on a whole new meaning when less than a year later I’m confronted with a crying baby on my doorstep, drooling on a note that declares he’s mine. Suddenly, I'm a single dad in way over my head. There is no playbook for situations like this. Luckily, I have Paisley. My gorgeous neighbor, my long-time crush, and now—my savior. She’s there any time I need her. Helping. Guiding. Gazing at me with those green eyes that make me feel capable of this after all. With her at my side, I’m quickly learning there’s more to life than winning a hockey game.

Scoring Off The Ice is a book that left me with mixed feelings. Like the previous book in the series, I really enjoyed the dual narrators for the audiobook. It really made the characters that much more real to me. I really liked both the characters at the start, but really enjoyed Mikah more in short order. He felt more fleshed out, and I really liked the stark contrast between the big hockey player appearance and the sweet and awkward personality as he tries to navigate everything in his life. Even when uncertain, he is still willing to fight for what he wants and what he thinks is the right thing. I just really liked him, and how mach he cared about others. On the other hand I started off liking Paisley, but she confused me. One minute she is against any relationship or connection to Mikah- the next she is busting out a curve hugging dress for diner at his place and is all in. Yes, woman can change our minds but she left me with whiplash. I liked the set up, and how the majority of the story is written, and I found some of the reactions and interactions realistic, and others a bit less so. I enjoyed the listen, it just did not grab me like I had expected, and hoped for. 

Scoring Off The Ice is an entertaining read, but I just did not get lost in the story. 

Early Book Review: A Favor for a Favor (All In) by Helena Hunting

A Favor for a Favor is the second book in the All In series by Helena Hunting. While there are carry over characters, you can enjoy each book on its own as well. It is currently scheduled for release on 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.

A Favor for a Favor has everything I love in a romance. Stevie and Bishop are honestly good people with snark and a fair amount of emotional baggage. I love that they both own their issues and are doing everything they can to make themselves and their lives better. Misunderstandings, emotional wounds, and injuries keep the verbal banter at a high level- and I enjoyed it. I loved watching the paor get to know each other and fall in love when they convince themselves that PT is all they are doing. The secondary characters are just as well built and complex as the main characters, and I enjoyed seeing returning characters as their stories continued and getting to know more of the players in Hunting's book universe. I honestly just enjoy the writing style and find myself thinking about the characters after I finish the book. They feel real, like I could run into them if I ventured into their neighborhood, and I would enjoy every minute of it. 

A Favor for a Favor is a wonderful slow burn romance with heart and humor. It is a must read for fans of Hunting.

Early Book Review: Tough Guy (Game Changers) by Rachel Reid

Tough Guy is the third book in the Game Changers series by Rachel Reid. It is currently scheduled for release on January 13 2020. You do not need to read the books in order or as a series, however those that do will enjoy seeing mentions and appearances by some of the characters from previous books. 

Pro hockey star Ryan Price may be an enforcer, but off the ice he struggles with anxiety. Recently traded to the Toronto Guardians, he’s determined to make a fresh start in the city’s dynamic LGBTQ Village. The last thing he expects to stumble upon in his new neighborhood is a blast from his past in the fabulous form of Fabian Salah. Aspiring musician Fabian loathes hockey. But that doesn’t stop him from being attracted to a certain burly, ginger-bearded defenseman. He hasn’t forgotten the kiss they almost shared back in high school, and it’s clear the chemistry between them has only intensified. Fabian is more than happy to be Ryan’s guide to the gay scene in Toronto. Between dance clubs and art exhibits—and the most amazing sex—Ryan’s starting to feel something he hasn’t experienced in a long time: joy. But playing the role of the heavy on the ice has taken its toll on his body and mind, and a future with Fabian may mean hanging up his skates for good.

Tough Guy is a great romance that takes body issues and mental health head on, and I appreciated it. I love that Ryan and Fabian actually talk about the problems that Ryan has because of his medication, and the frank and honest way his body issues are handled up front. So often we read about women that are insecure about the way they look, even though we know there are men with similar thoughts. While I wish everyone could be comfortable and confident in their own skin it was refreshing to see a man no one would expect to be insecure go through similar doubts. The connection between Fabian and Ryan was wonderful to watch as it grew, and as they faced the difference that they each tried to ignore or avoid talking about. I think Reid did a great job of showing how good communication can make relationships work, but even that does not make it foolproof. I really enjoyed watching the pair find their way, and Ryan figure himself out even more. I was thoroughly engaged through the entire read, and had a hard time putting it down to do little things like cook dinner or perform in a concert that I had been in rehearsals for all year. 

Tough Guy is another winner from Reid. I love the characters and story, and cannot wait for more.

Book Review: Goalie Interference (Hat Trick) by Avon Gale; Piper Vaughn

Goalie Interference is the second book in the Hat Trick series by Avon Gale and Piper Vaughn. I did not read the first book in the series, and think that newcomers to the series will be able to fully enjoy the read on its own. 

Ryu Mori has had a stellar season as goalie for the Atlanta Venom. So when he’s called into management’s office, he’s expecting to hear he’s the new starting goalie for the team, not that some new guy—an incredibly hot, annoyingly bratty rookie—is here to compete for his spot. Not everyone gets to play in the best league in the world. Emmitt Armstrong knows that, and he’s not about to waste the opportunity after grinding his way from the bottom to the top. If the Venom are looking for a meek, mild-mannered pushover, they’ve got the wrong guy. Ryu doesn’t want to admit the other goalie’s smart mouth turns him on. Beating Armstrong at practice feels good, sure, but there are other, more fun ways to shut his rival up. In this league, it’s winner takes all. But there’s more to life than winning, and if Emmitt and Ryu can get past their egos and competitive natures, they might just discover they work better as partners than they ever imagined possible.

Goalie Interference is so much more than a m/m or sports romance. Ryu and Emmitt both have family that love and support them, but that might not all offer the kind of pride and overt recognition that they sometimes crave. They both have friends or family they can rely on, and develop support systems, and still have issues that they need to face. Their problems are unique- because of who they are- but they read like real people with real problems. Sometimes it is nice to connect with a character going through problems that are realistic and relatable rather than horrific things that make me sad or angry. Yes, I have no clue what it is like competing for the goalie spot on an NHL team- but I do know what it is like to struggle with feeling accepted or wanting my parents to be proud. 

I enjoyed seeing Emmitt and Ryu dance around each other as they came to terms with their feelings- and finding their way to each other. More importantly- they needed to figure out how to face the inevitable professional struggles they will face. I loved some of their bickering- and some of the frank discussions about love, lust, and attraction in the book. Sometimes when this many sensitive topics arise in a single book it feels manufactured or like it is being done to be trendy or tick off boxes. Here it felt completely organic- the conversations about racism, sexuality, and family all felt natural and organic to the story. I greatly enjoyed the read- and would honestly love to hang out with the characters in real life- they just were that real to me as I read.

Goalie Interference is a solid romance that touches on a wide range of emotional issues. I loved getting to know these characters and will be keeping an eye of for more from the authors.

Early Book Review: The Nanny Rules by Melynda Price

The Nanny Rules by Melynda Price is currently scheduled for release on August 12 2019.  Since becoming a single father, I have two things that keep me sane—my daughter Lily and playing football for the NFL. But when my meddling sister hires a nanny without my knowledge, I’m not thrilled to come home and find the woman has taken over my house. Our instant attraction is one more complication I don’t need in my life. But my daughter loves Amelia, and I will do anything for that tiny munchkin. Even if it means walking around with blue balls most of the time. Why does the nanny have to be so sweet—and drop dead gorgeous? She’s driving me crazy. Never in my life have I wanted a woman more. I just need to make it through this season. I can do that. Hands free, of course. But then there’s that moment, and I know she’s thinking what I’m thinking and, well, yeah. 

The Nanny Rules is a contemporary romance that hit all the sweet spots for the feels. Yes, it is the boo/nanny trope- but I love that Amelia loves Lily before even meeting her father. I liked that Amelia and Brody each have issues from their past that they need to deal with, issues of trust and hope that they need to work on for themselves before moving forward. I liked that while Brody and Amelia were guarding their feelings and their hearts, they both loved Lily and put her first in just about everything. I also enjoy the way Brody related to his team and coach, I liked that he had that support and camaraderie available to him. I just thought the connection between the characters, and their fears, were spot on and written very well. I found myself grinning or cringing as I read as they tried to find their way toward their own peace and their happy ever after. I liked the secondary characters as well. I want more about a few of Brody's teammates and coach, and his sister as well. The complications and struggles were all so real and heart felt that I was rooting for the characters right from the start. 

The Nanny Rules is a wonderful contemporary romance that has a good balance of heart and heat. Readers that are particularly fond of the boss/nanny trope and sports romance will really enjoy it. I think this was my first read from this author, but it will not be my last.

Early Book Review: Kickin' It (Red Card) by Rachel Van Dyken

Kickin' It is the second book in the Red Card series by Rachel Van Dyken. It is currently scheduled for release on June 11 2019. Each of the books can be read on its own, but there are returning characters so it is simply more fun to read as a series.

Successful, high-profile sports agent Matt Kingston thinks he can handle anything. Then soccer player Parker Speedman shows up at his door. She is young and gorgeous, has natural talent, and is looking for a team. She’s also a hothead with a punchy past who floored her last coach on live TV. Despite his misgivings, Matt agrees to be both her agent and her coach. Professional common sense says she’s off-limits. But what can he say about the raw attraction between them? Parker plays soccer with her heart and soul. But after the events of the last year, she’s shaken. She’s already seen what a powerful man can do to a female athlete’s career. And her beloved dream is in the hands of a sexy, gorgeous man with the uncanny ability to slip past her defense and into her heart. Now Matt and Parker are about to learn that when it comes to love, the only way to win is by breaking every rule they know. And by playing nice. Real nice.

Kickin' It has some great laughs, and some very hard moments, which balance the book. I love the banter and spark, not just between Parker and Matt, but with the entire group of friends and family that make up the main characters. I liked the set up, and simply love Willow and the way Jagger and Slade offer their own quips through the story. I think that the support offered to Parker through the entire book was fabulous, and I thought that her anxiety and self doubt were very realistic and sadly something that many will be able to relate to. I think her battle and strength will help readers that have been in similar situations embrace their own inner strength and stand up for themselves and others. More importantly, it might show someone who needs to know it that they are not alone, and that it is certainly not their fault no matter what. I enjoyed getting to know Matt and Parker's characters more, and getting to see them find happiness and peace. 

Kickin' It is the second book I have read from this author, but it will not be the last. She delivers contemporary romance with heart and tackles some tough topics.

Early Book Review: Check Please!: #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu

Check Please!: #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu is the first graphic novel in a two volume series for new and young adults, and older readers of course. It is currently scheduled for release on September 18 2018. 

Bitty may be a former junior figure skating champion, vlogger extraordinaire, and very talented pie maker, but being a freshman on the Samwell University hockey team is a whole new challenge. It’s nothing like co-ed club hockey back in Georgia! First of all? There’s checking. And then, there is there is Jack—our very attractive but moody captain. This volume is a collection of the first half of the webcomic series of the same name. It is a coming-of-age story about hockey, bros, and trying to find yourself during what could be the best four years of your life.

Check Please!: #Hockey is a graphic novel that tackles the fears of fitting in, especially when you are different, or do not conform to gender expectations. Bitty is not just gay, he also bakes like a dream, has a video blog, was a figure skater, and faints at the thought of getting checked on the ice rink. I worried that the character was going to be too stereotypical, but I was glad to get the story from his perspective, and was easily lost in his story. I felt like his journey toward being comfortable with himself, and sharing that with his team when he was ready. There were places I wanted more information, or a peek at someone else's mindset. However, the story was well done and captured my attention while leaving me wanting more. I thought the artwork was a great match to the story. I thought it did a good job of covering some of the good and bad of college life without getting too caught up in any one aspect. 

Check Please!: #Hockey is a fun and heart warming story, with a nice variety of characters and challenges that are tackled with light-hearted, hopeful, and realistic. My only complaint is that While left hopeful, I was left with a bit of a cliffhanger, wondering how things will work out. I will be checking out the next volume.