stephreviewsbooks's reviews
760 reviews

On Thin Ice by Denver Shaw

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4.0

This is a clever collaboration of hockey books, that are linked by all being based in the minor league during the same season. Therefore they can be read as standalones. I read this book firat, and would love to read the rest of the series. It is hard to believe this author hasn't written hockey romance before, you would never guess. This book brings Xander and Ry together, which doesn't go as well as the tram hope. Xander is the sunshine to Ry's grumpy and he isn't sure why the guy riles him up. This is an awakening for both men in different ways. Both aggressive and hard hitting on the ice, it eas such a contrast with how soppy and tender they were together in private. There was no mistaking their feelings, both very honest and open and fell deep fast. I adored the notes Xander would leave for Ry. Everything is ticking alongnucely, until hockey gets in the way. 
 I hope this author writes spin offs for the teammates; there was definitely tension coming from Coach Mack. For those who like to know how the relationship has moved on, the epilogue will please you. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Keeper by Aimee Nicole Walker

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4.0

This book brings a conclusion to the underlying angst and criminal activities mentioned in previous books. This book revolves around Seth and Rueben. They had a weekend of passion and neither of them got over it. The problem is that there is a pending legal case that means any relationship they have will have serious consequences for people they care about. However, desire is too strong to fight. Lots of sneaking around and keeping secrets gives this story  forbidden vibes. It is clear how much these two feel for each other, I loved their connection and chemistry. This has been a really strong series, all with stunning covers; the author has extended it by two more books. So glad Keegan and Sven will get a story each. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 
Creek by Nora Phoenix, E.M. Lindsey

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4.0

This is a grumpy/Sunshine story, Creek is mad at the world and the thought of smiley, cheerful people puts him in a bad mood. He is adapting to life, having lost a leg whilst serving in the army. The details regarding the prosthesis and the agonising therapy was so poignant. Creek finds himself sharing his PT time with Heath. Heath is a ray of sunshine, a surfer and teacher with stereotypical surfer looks. 
 I don't think the chemistry was strong at the start, the first contact they had was inevitable but seemed to come from nowhere. I think we needed Creek to self consciously admit a few things beforehand. Once they talked and were honest with each other their intimacy increased. This is book one of a new series so was naturally slow paced, whilst we were introduced to everyone, ready for their stories. This had a happy ending, and I'm sure we will catch up with their developments with the next books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Anyone But Me by J.D. Frost

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5.0

It's a 5 star read, I loved it: Intense, angsty, steamy and hard to put down. This has so many twists and turns with so many dynamics. It is hard to give a deep review, without spoilers, so I will keep it short. Asher is the typical jock, untouchable and oozing confidence but he is Oakley's school bully. Oakley has a lot more on his shoulders than Asher, but it just adds to the pile. Both of these MC's have secrets and despite initially hating each other, there is an unspoken connection. Watching their dynamics unfold was intense and fast paced. They literally go from freezing to boiling, in seconds. Lots of angst, from secondary characters that adds a sinister element. It was beautiful when these two figured out that their feelings were mutual. I adored both characters, they will stay with me for a long time. If you like touch him and die vibes, the want to protect someone above all else, then you will love this book. The epilogue jumps forward five years which gives us the happy ending they both deserved. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 
The Rookie vs The Ace by Nicole Dykes

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4.0

Brilliant end to this amazing series. This is a mixture of grumpy/ sunshine and enemies to lovers. Brayden is a champion, he's not far off the end of his career, whereas Carson is the new driver. A little bit reckless, that sends Brayden crazy. He has a past that still haunts him and Carson scares him. These two are forced into a bromance friendship, and predictably, we know what is going to happen. This is a steamy read, these two are all over one another and the honeymoon period keeps on going. There is some angst and some homophobia, but it doesn't dominate the story. Jenny, the agent, is fantastic in this story. She is a woman who knows how to win. She has been such a strong character throughout and deserves a mention. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.