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Nashville Grizzlies #3
Assisted
Foolish is judging a book by its cover… or a hockey coach by his suit
As assistant coach of the Nashville Grizzlies, Imil Bouchard has everything he needs, except maybe a Daddy. On the wrong side of forty and not looking for a traditional Dom, he knows there’s no point wishing for what he can’t have. And of course, he’s drawn to the extra-anxious director who exudes the need for a Daddy not a boy.
Blaise Emory found his calling in Nashville as the director of hockey. He’s good at his job, but people and locker rooms make him nervous. Most work days are spent battling his nerves, except when he’s around the very take-charge assistant coach. Imil would be the perfect Daddy, if only Blaise needed a Dom.
Anxiety keeps Blaise from downloading a dating app, so finding a boy isn’t likely. When an early morning discovery turns into the opening he’s been looking for, Blaise must prove to both of them that he’s the Daddy Imil never dared to dream about.
This 90k word MM romance includes overprotective best friends, crazy family, a beloved stuffed giraffe, and a guaranteed HEA. New and familiar characters add an extra layer of friendly chaos and humor to Blaise and Imil’s journey. Assisted is the third book in the Nashville Grizzlies series and while it can be read as a stand alone, it will be best enjoyed in order.
As assistant coach of the Nashville Grizzlies, Imil Bouchard has everything he needs, except maybe a Daddy. On the wrong side of forty and not looking for a traditional Dom, he knows there’s no point wishing for what he can’t have. And of course, he’s drawn to the extra-anxious director who exudes the need for a Daddy not a boy.
Blaise Emory found his calling in Nashville as the director of hockey. He’s good at his job, but people and locker rooms make him nervous. Most work days are spent battling his nerves, except when he’s around the very take-charge assistant coach. Imil would be the perfect Daddy, if only Blaise needed a Dom.
Anxiety keeps Blaise from downloading a dating app, so finding a boy isn’t likely. When an early morning discovery turns into the opening he’s been looking for, Blaise must prove to both of them that he’s the Daddy Imil never dared to dream about.
This 90k word MM romance includes overprotective best friends, crazy family, a beloved stuffed giraffe, and a guaranteed HEA. New and familiar characters add an extra layer of friendly chaos and humor to Blaise and Imil’s journey. Assisted is the third book in the Nashville Grizzlies series and while it can be read as a stand alone, it will be best enjoyed in order.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2023
144 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 5, 2024
Things I liked:
- very sweet, pure relationship
- supportive friends and colleagues
- Vancouver Science Center. If I was inclined to get in a flying tin can ever again (not fucking likely) and fly across all that open water (too scary) ... I would want to go here!
What I didn't like:
- the relationship was TOO sweet, like toothache inducing
- there's absolutely no angst or conflict
- the whole Daddy and Little/Middle relationship concept
I've worked out I have two things that stop me enjoying this relationship dynamic. The first being I NEED one of the characters at least to be abrasive / emotionally damaged / sarcastic / troubled etc. You only have to look at books I've five starred to see that the majority have characters and plots that are very morally grey, or morally bankrupt, and there is a boat load of angst and drama. I want a book to punch me in the feels and make me cry so much my eyes hurt and I get a headache, before restoring my faith! Daddy / Little or Daddy / Middle is just too sweet for me. As much as I like the characters and their story, it's just not really what I'm looking for when I want to escape my actual life with a book. I've definitely read enough of them now to know this isn't a relationship dynamic I would seek out.
The other major thing is that I'm a mum to a young boy with complex special needs, so all I see is my daily life when the little side i.e. the play, cutting up food, dressing and general care is emphasised. I spend all of my days in a play room, caring for a disabled child who is entirely reliant on me, so for me it is SO hard to try separate my experience as a parent from the relationship dynamic being portrayed and not get completely icked out when the story goes to the sexual element of the relationship. If I wasn't a mum maybe I would be able to think differently, and I would never intend to make anyone feel like their kink was weird or wrong, so I think this will be the last book I read in this sub-genre.
- very sweet, pure relationship
- supportive friends and colleagues
- Vancouver Science Center. If I was inclined to get in a flying tin can ever again (not fucking likely) and fly across all that open water (too scary) ... I would want to go here!
What I didn't like:
- the relationship was TOO sweet, like toothache inducing
- there's absolutely no angst or conflict
- the whole Daddy and Little/Middle relationship concept
I've worked out I have two things that stop me enjoying this relationship dynamic. The first being I NEED one of the characters at least to be abrasive / emotionally damaged / sarcastic / troubled etc. You only have to look at books I've five starred to see that the majority have characters and plots that are very morally grey, or morally bankrupt, and there is a boat load of angst and drama. I want a book to punch me in the feels and make me cry so much my eyes hurt and I get a headache, before restoring my faith! Daddy / Little or Daddy / Middle is just too sweet for me. As much as I like the characters and their story, it's just not really what I'm looking for when I want to escape my actual life with a book. I've definitely read enough of them now to know this isn't a relationship dynamic I would seek out.
The other major thing is that I'm a mum to a young boy with complex special needs, so all I see is my daily life when the little side i.e. the play, cutting up food, dressing and general care is emphasised. I spend all of my days in a play room, caring for a disabled child who is entirely reliant on me, so for me it is SO hard to try separate my experience as a parent from the relationship dynamic being portrayed and not get completely icked out when the story goes to the sexual element of the relationship. If I wasn't a mum maybe I would be able to think differently, and I would never intend to make anyone feel like their kink was weird or wrong, so I think this will be the last book I read in this sub-genre.
March 19, 2023
Ok listen...
This was a wonderfully written story and I enjoyed it very much. There is gonna be a big but at the end of this review.
Slight spoilers ahead me matey
Ok so we have Imil (his real name is his famous father's in hockey) and Blaise the extremely nervous guy who has been in the other hockey players books.
Speaking of, why wasn't that scene from Igors book in here??
Anyways, these two dingdongs have been friends for years but Imil thought Blaise was a sub while Blaise thought Imil was a Dom. Meanwhile, the entire group that works for this hockey team are into ageplay or at least are very ok with it.
After a few trips together, including one where Blaise is hurt by a falling Spider-Man, they get close and eventually get together.
Remember that but I had earlier? I'm going to talk about that now.
This story was more about the hockey team than the main mcs. Don't get me wrong, it was a wonderful read and I love all the side characters, including Milo (please hook up Milo and the coach, or have him be the Daddy to one or all of the younger players, or even one of the Johnson brothers), but the actual time spent with just the mcs was few and far between.
It was 65% before a slight brush of the lips happened and there was no real talk about being in a BDSM relationship, limits, colors, etc. Colin was introduced here so that no one would be surprised to see him next. And what was up with so much time spent on the improved player for another team?
Regardless, I was happy to see Canyon and Lars.
This was a wonderfully written story and I enjoyed it very much. There is gonna be a big but at the end of this review.
Slight spoilers ahead me matey
Ok so we have Imil (his real name is his famous father's in hockey) and Blaise the extremely nervous guy who has been in the other hockey players books.
Speaking of, why wasn't that scene from Igors book in here??
Anyways, these two dingdongs have been friends for years but Imil thought Blaise was a sub while Blaise thought Imil was a Dom. Meanwhile, the entire group that works for this hockey team are into ageplay or at least are very ok with it.
After a few trips together, including one where Blaise is hurt by a falling Spider-Man, they get close and eventually get together.
Remember that but I had earlier? I'm going to talk about that now.
This story was more about the hockey team than the main mcs. Don't get me wrong, it was a wonderful read and I love all the side characters, including Milo (please hook up Milo and the coach, or have him be the Daddy to one or all of the younger players, or even one of the Johnson brothers), but the actual time spent with just the mcs was few and far between.
It was 65% before a slight brush of the lips happened and there was no real talk about being in a BDSM relationship, limits, colors, etc. Colin was introduced here so that no one would be surprised to see him next. And what was up with so much time spent on the improved player for another team?
Regardless, I was happy to see Canyon and Lars.
dnf
March 21, 2023dnf @ 37%
This author used to really do it for me. Idk if her writing style changed or if I changed. The two MCs are still doing the push and pull thing and it seemed like there was a lot of filler.
The rest of this is going to be a rant about filler.
I wish I didn’t know that authors who release on KU get paid per page read. Every single time I’m reading a KU book and there are 3-5 pages I can skim (or skip all together and not miss anything) I get mad. Idk maybe I need to take a break. I just feel like more and more authors are pushing longer books out. I love a nice long book as long as it’s worth reading. More often than not the lengthier books could be cut in half and you’d still have the same gd story.
This author used to really do it for me. Idk if her writing style changed or if I changed. The two MCs are still doing the push and pull thing and it seemed like there was a lot of filler.
The rest of this is going to be a rant about filler.
I wish I didn’t know that authors who release on KU get paid per page read. Every single time I’m reading a KU book and there are 3-5 pages I can skim (or skip all together and not miss anything) I get mad. Idk maybe I need to take a break. I just feel like more and more authors are pushing longer books out. I love a nice long book as long as it’s worth reading. More often than not the lengthier books could be cut in half and you’d still have the same gd story.
March 18, 2023
That was so disappointing. I’ve enjoyed all of the other books by this author, but this was nothing like those. I felt no connection to either main character. I didn’t feel their connection to each other. They never felt like a couple. It felt more like convenience than real attraction to me.
2 ⭐️ because I, at least, finished.
2 ⭐️ because I, at least, finished.
March 18, 2023
The good
+ Blaise and Imil feeling at ease around each other
+ All the caretaking
+ Everyone being supportive of their relationship
+ Everyone on the team supporting everyone else
+ The difference between their dynamics at home and at work
+ Collin with Trevor in his lap. Definitely my favorite scene
The neutral
o There was no playdate with Trevor :(
o There was very little play time in general. The Little/Middle scenes mostly consisted of Blaise tucking Imil in (which was adorable), but very little time was spent playing
o Did Imil get fined for that one press conference?
o Aside from the typo in the word 'neurodiversity', the dedication sounded pretty condescending to me. Calling neurodiverse people 'warriors' does not sit well with me (no matter how hard some things can be)
The bad
- Blaise's family. First of all, Blaise's mother created an environment that was so chaotic, Blaise's tics became too extreme to handle. And not just in her own home; oh no. She comes by for a surprise visit and moves things around in Blaise's home as if she has any right to. What kind of mother does something that could trigger her son's tics like this? Secondly, there's Indy. According to Blaise, Indy is the reason he has anxiety and needed so much therapy. Yet every time he asks Indy for a little consideration, she just shrugs it off and doesn't change a thing. Indy is too self-centered to deserve a brother as kind as Blaise
- Indy was also really invasive with the way she talked about Blaise's kinks, even though he told her he didn't want to talk about it. She also said "I'm going to find a way to get you two together. Somehow." and that's just invasive. Especially since she works with both of them!
- Milo outed Imil (both his sexuality and his submissive side) to Blaise, Imil's coworker, like it was no big deal. There is no excuse for doing something like this, and his reasoning that Imil would never have approached Blaise on his own is completely irrelevant. Nothing gave him the right to out Imil like that
- There were lots of character inconsistencies throughout the book. Blaise was described as someone who wants to micromanage his partner at home, which is fine, but basically the opposite from what happens with Imil. His only ex was Will, but later one of multiple exes was Sal. Blaise supposedly knew he wanted to be a Daddy for a long time already, but had to do all his research on Daddy kink when he found out that was what Imil was looking for. Imil also never told Blaise about his real name. It was really hard to keep track of the characters' personalities when the details kept changing
- Imil's real first name was Emory, which was Blaise's last name. What? Also, Blaise's nickname was B, while Imil's nickname was Coach B. It was all really confusing to me
Quotes
x "I laughed your cum out my ass."
This book was not my favorite, but it was enjoyable regardless. It just really needs some polishing and a kick in the shins for some side characters. I liked Collin's character in this book, but I won't be reading his story as I dislike all the tropes for that book. I'll be tuning back in afterwards for the coach and Jean-Luc and possibly Toby.
+ Blaise and Imil feeling at ease around each other
+ All the caretaking
+ Everyone being supportive of their relationship
+ Everyone on the team supporting everyone else
+ The difference between their dynamics at home and at work
+ Collin with Trevor in his lap. Definitely my favorite scene
The neutral
o There was no playdate with Trevor :(
o There was very little play time in general. The Little/Middle scenes mostly consisted of Blaise tucking Imil in (which was adorable), but very little time was spent playing
o Did Imil get fined for that one press conference?
o Aside from the typo in the word 'neurodiversity', the dedication sounded pretty condescending to me. Calling neurodiverse people 'warriors' does not sit well with me (no matter how hard some things can be)
The bad
- Blaise's family. First of all, Blaise's mother created an environment that was so chaotic, Blaise's tics became too extreme to handle. And not just in her own home; oh no. She comes by for a surprise visit and moves things around in Blaise's home as if she has any right to. What kind of mother does something that could trigger her son's tics like this? Secondly, there's Indy. According to Blaise, Indy is the reason he has anxiety and needed so much therapy. Yet every time he asks Indy for a little consideration, she just shrugs it off and doesn't change a thing. Indy is too self-centered to deserve a brother as kind as Blaise
- Indy was also really invasive with the way she talked about Blaise's kinks, even though he told her he didn't want to talk about it. She also said "I'm going to find a way to get you two together. Somehow." and that's just invasive. Especially since she works with both of them!
- Milo outed Imil (both his sexuality and his submissive side) to Blaise, Imil's coworker, like it was no big deal. There is no excuse for doing something like this, and his reasoning that Imil would never have approached Blaise on his own is completely irrelevant. Nothing gave him the right to out Imil like that
- There were lots of character inconsistencies throughout the book. Blaise was described as someone who wants to micromanage his partner at home, which is fine, but basically the opposite from what happens with Imil. His only ex was Will, but later one of multiple exes was Sal. Blaise supposedly knew he wanted to be a Daddy for a long time already, but had to do all his research on Daddy kink when he found out that was what Imil was looking for. Imil also never told Blaise about his real name. It was really hard to keep track of the characters' personalities when the details kept changing
- Imil's real first name was Emory, which was Blaise's last name. What? Also, Blaise's nickname was B, while Imil's nickname was Coach B. It was all really confusing to me
Quotes
x "I laughed your cum out my ass."
This book was not my favorite, but it was enjoyable regardless. It just really needs some polishing and a kick in the shins for some side characters. I liked Collin's character in this book, but I won't be reading his story as I dislike all the tropes for that book. I'll be tuning back in afterwards for the coach and Jean-Luc and possibly Toby.
July 21, 2024
When expectations finally meet reality. Well, at least this book was closer to my expectations than the others, but I won't change my rating.
I really liked certain elements, though. How shy and anxious Daddy is outside of his comfort zone, while the boy is confident and much more take-charge outside of his. I liked the reversed roles in that way.
But the rest was the same as book one and book two. Overall, not necessarily exciting, but still nice.
I really liked certain elements, though. How shy and anxious Daddy is outside of his comfort zone, while the boy is confident and much more take-charge outside of his. I liked the reversed roles in that way.
But the rest was the same as book one and book two. Overall, not necessarily exciting, but still nice.
August 2, 2024
Por finnnnn, después de empezar este libro 3 veces, por fin logré terminarlo.
¿Es un mal libro? No, para nada. Todo lo contrario, está genial. Solo que las veces que decidí leerlo siempre me trababa de alguna manera y no podia seguir leyendo.
Imil y Blaise, me sorprendieron muchísimo y me llevo una grata sensacion al terminar su historia pero siento que el no haber logrado conectarme con ellos las ultimas 2 veces que lo intenté, hace que esta 3era vez sea algo agridulce terminarlo.
Estoy interesada en leer las siguientes historia, y hay una que se publicará el año que viene que estoy rogando (y chillando) que sea de los personajes que pienso😭🤞🏻🤞🏻
--------------------------------
O SEA, VOS ME ESTÁS DICIENDO QUE EN ESTE LIBRO NADA ES LO QUE PARECE!!!????????
MUERO POR EMPEZAR A LEERLOOOO
¿Es un mal libro? No, para nada. Todo lo contrario, está genial. Solo que las veces que decidí leerlo siempre me trababa de alguna manera y no podia seguir leyendo.
Imil y Blaise, me sorprendieron muchísimo y me llevo una grata sensacion al terminar su historia pero siento que el no haber logrado conectarme con ellos las ultimas 2 veces que lo intenté, hace que esta 3era vez sea algo agridulce terminarlo.
Estoy interesada en leer las siguientes historia, y hay una que se publicará el año que viene que estoy rogando (y chillando) que sea de los personajes que pienso😭🤞🏻🤞🏻
--------------------------------
O SEA, VOS ME ESTÁS DICIENDO QUE EN ESTE LIBRO NADA ES LO QUE PARECE!!!????????
MUERO POR EMPEZAR A LEERLOOOO
October 2, 2023
I wasn't completely convinced of the dynamic between Blaise and Imil, but still enjoyed the read.
September 9, 2023
Great series, but this one...
I really enjoy this authors book, sincerely. Assisted was no different - two awkward men who have been crushing on each other for years, so sure that they can't meet the others needs. It was a cute, low-angst slowish burn.
My issues: I'd love to have seen more about Blaise's tourettes. It was talked about so much in all the other books and his first chapter and then, apart of social anxiety, he basically never ticced the whole book.
The details are all wonky here. Last book, the equipment manager was they/them Leslie. Now it's Kai. Emil's last name is Bouchard and his brother and sister are Emory. This is semi-explained... except when it's explained it says Emil's real name is Emory Laurent because he was named after his father and he wanted out of his shadow... but at the hospital, they called Blaise Mr. Emory?!?!?! Very confusing. And then the name of Blaise's longest ex, who lived with him and was too assertive, changed from Will to Sal. Last, but not least cuz Trevor... after his book stating how short he is at 5"4... now he's grown 2 inches in this book 😅 I can't even. It was also weird how suddenly Trevor wasn't as worried about everyone seeing him suck his thumb. Suddenly, everyone just secretly knows about it? When you spend that long on writing it as a secret, you can't just change it to suit the narrative of a new book, especially if it doesnt fit the characters. For example, when would Daddy Brax EVER just throw his boy at someone else because he needs to pee. How is that keeping Trevor safe? Nah, it doesn't fit.
Blaise's character didn't fit. We barely saw the tourettes, barely saw the social anxiety, he learnt how to be a Daddy by listening to podcasts basically overnight, even though he said he knew he was a Daddy before finding out about Imil... and, oh yeah, he was a suave dirty talker. He was full of contradictions that just didn't feel real to me. After everything we'd read about him in the other books, his character development just fell flat.
All of this just kept throwing me out of the story and making me feel like the details no longer mattered to the author.
So much potential here and I feel like it got lost.
I really enjoy this authors book, sincerely. Assisted was no different - two awkward men who have been crushing on each other for years, so sure that they can't meet the others needs. It was a cute, low-angst slowish burn.
My issues: I'd love to have seen more about Blaise's tourettes. It was talked about so much in all the other books and his first chapter and then, apart of social anxiety, he basically never ticced the whole book.
The details are all wonky here. Last book, the equipment manager was they/them Leslie. Now it's Kai. Emil's last name is Bouchard and his brother and sister are Emory. This is semi-explained... except when it's explained it says Emil's real name is Emory Laurent because he was named after his father and he wanted out of his shadow... but at the hospital, they called Blaise Mr. Emory?!?!?! Very confusing. And then the name of Blaise's longest ex, who lived with him and was too assertive, changed from Will to Sal. Last, but not least cuz Trevor... after his book stating how short he is at 5"4... now he's grown 2 inches in this book 😅 I can't even. It was also weird how suddenly Trevor wasn't as worried about everyone seeing him suck his thumb. Suddenly, everyone just secretly knows about it? When you spend that long on writing it as a secret, you can't just change it to suit the narrative of a new book, especially if it doesnt fit the characters. For example, when would Daddy Brax EVER just throw his boy at someone else because he needs to pee. How is that keeping Trevor safe? Nah, it doesn't fit.
Blaise's character didn't fit. We barely saw the tourettes, barely saw the social anxiety, he learnt how to be a Daddy by listening to podcasts basically overnight, even though he said he knew he was a Daddy before finding out about Imil... and, oh yeah, he was a suave dirty talker. He was full of contradictions that just didn't feel real to me. After everything we'd read about him in the other books, his character development just fell flat.
All of this just kept throwing me out of the story and making me feel like the details no longer mattered to the author.
So much potential here and I feel like it got lost.
March 19, 2023
I've had a sweet spot for Blaise since he was first introduced and wanted him to find his HEA. For him to find a sweet, patient, and understanding partner since Blaise was such anxious and nervous person and dealing with Tourette's disorder (which the author handles in such a respectful and caring matter; smoothly injecting teaching moments for the reader of the many difficulties and forms it can manifest). But little did I know that Blaise would find that partner and much more. Blaise had so many layers to his personality. And Imil wasn't far behind with his surprises. Two completely opposite personalities that fit so perfectly together but not in a way I expected. This was such an awesome unexpected twist, I loved it. Like the blurb says, don't judge a book by its cover...in this case don't judge by what you see on the surface. The journey to Blaise and Imil's HEA was filled with many vulnerable and sweet/tender moments that had my aching heart melt, showing your vulnerability is never easy. But Imil learned that Blaise was trustworthy and truly accepting of all parts of Imil. And just when I thought my heart would burst from all the emotions, a very funny moment would occur, making me crack up. This team is always up to something!! A team of very intriguing players with so many personalities. I can't wait for the next book to see who's secret will be revealed next. And note to the author: Ms. Carly Marie, I know Milo is not part of the Grizzlies but I really want his story.
March 16, 2023
Just because someone projects a certain image, doesn't mean there isn't more to unwrap beneath the surface... and Carly Marie helps us unwrap two such wonderful characters in Assisted...
With a stressful job as an Assistant coach in the NHL, Imil has spent years coping and hiding part of himself, waiting for a daddy... and someone to see beneath the image he projects... Blaise has been waiting for the right boy to see past his anxiety and nerves to find the Daddy Dom he keeps at home... both of them just want someone to love... so hopefully with a 'little' help from friends and family, they will eventually unwrap the hidden treasures within themselves.
I loved everything about this book - the pacing (which is definitely on the slow burn side), the comraderie, the communication and the sweetness of the characters. I also loved that no one tried to force a square peg into a round hole and that was refreshing, too!
If you like a Daddy/boy story with some age play elements and a reverse age gap, a sweet stuffed Giraffe named Gerald and an abundance of Bear Checks, you'll want to snap up Assisted! This book can be read standalone, however your depth of enjoyment and ability to smile at inside jokes will be enhanced by starting at the beginning of the series.
With a stressful job as an Assistant coach in the NHL, Imil has spent years coping and hiding part of himself, waiting for a daddy... and someone to see beneath the image he projects... Blaise has been waiting for the right boy to see past his anxiety and nerves to find the Daddy Dom he keeps at home... both of them just want someone to love... so hopefully with a 'little' help from friends and family, they will eventually unwrap the hidden treasures within themselves.
I loved everything about this book - the pacing (which is definitely on the slow burn side), the comraderie, the communication and the sweetness of the characters. I also loved that no one tried to force a square peg into a round hole and that was refreshing, too!
If you like a Daddy/boy story with some age play elements and a reverse age gap, a sweet stuffed Giraffe named Gerald and an abundance of Bear Checks, you'll want to snap up Assisted! This book can be read standalone, however your depth of enjoyment and ability to smile at inside jokes will be enhanced by starting at the beginning of the series.
March 18, 2023
- an MM hockey romance! no. 3 in the Nashville Grizzlies series! reverse age gap, daddy k!nk, age play, coach x director
- they’re both so sweet
- i love Imil’s friendship with Milo
- although Carly does love the ‘big brother’ trope
- when Blair finds Imil with Gerard🥺🥺
- their first date!!! all the little kisses
- Imil is actually the CUTEST
- such good communication throughout
- they’re so cute i cannot cope 😭
- i love them i love them i love them
- HE TURNED UP ON THE PLANE SO THEY COULD TALK
- their date at the science centre was so funny but also HILARIOUS
- if Toby and Jean Luc don’t get their own story soon i’m going to explode
- the elevator scene with Brad giving them wet wipes was hilarious
- absolutely obsessed that he has Gerard tattooed on him!!
- think both their characters devs were so so good!!
- honestly wish we had more age play because they were so good
- love Indy’s reaction!!
- not mega spicy but the scenes we did get were done very well!
- ergh they’re just so in love 😭😭
- him thinking it would be nice to have a play date with Trev🥺😭
- epilogue was perfect
- honestly i just wanted more!!! they were so perfect for each other that i could of read another 100 pages easy😂
- they’re both so sweet
- i love Imil’s friendship with Milo
- although Carly does love the ‘big brother’ trope
- when Blair finds Imil with Gerard🥺🥺
- their first date!!! all the little kisses
- Imil is actually the CUTEST
- such good communication throughout
- they’re so cute i cannot cope 😭
- i love them i love them i love them
- HE TURNED UP ON THE PLANE SO THEY COULD TALK
- their date at the science centre was so funny but also HILARIOUS
- if Toby and Jean Luc don’t get their own story soon i’m going to explode
- the elevator scene with Brad giving them wet wipes was hilarious
- absolutely obsessed that he has Gerard tattooed on him!!
- think both their characters devs were so so good!!
- honestly wish we had more age play because they were so good
- love Indy’s reaction!!
- not mega spicy but the scenes we did get were done very well!
- ergh they’re just so in love 😭😭
- him thinking it would be nice to have a play date with Trev🥺😭
- epilogue was perfect
- honestly i just wanted more!!! they were so perfect for each other that i could of read another 100 pages easy😂
March 24, 2023
4* Assisted is the 3rd book in the Nashville Grizzlies series and follows Assistant Coach, Imil, and Director of Operations, Blaise. This was a slow-burn story with older and more established MC's that focused on the strength and supportiveness of their relationship and the hockey team. Kink-light compared to other books by this author.
I liked Imil and Blaise's relationship overall - how they leaned on each other when it was needed and how each of them saw the other's strengths when those closest to them didn't, specifically Blaise's family. I was very confused by his family and most of their interactions - they didn't feel supportive and were often outright hazardous when he would drop everything for them. I don't know much about Tourette's, but I felt like I learned more about the condition during this book, though. I loved how much team support they had and, of course, previous characters showing up!
A couple of my favorite quotes:
"It was like trying to manage a bunch of toddlers with big bank accounts."
"I didn't need to have a Daddy give me a list of boundaries and rules and expectations. I needed a partner who was able to be my safe space."
I liked Imil and Blaise's relationship overall - how they leaned on each other when it was needed and how each of them saw the other's strengths when those closest to them didn't, specifically Blaise's family. I was very confused by his family and most of their interactions - they didn't feel supportive and were often outright hazardous when he would drop everything for them. I don't know much about Tourette's, but I felt like I learned more about the condition during this book, though. I loved how much team support they had and, of course, previous characters showing up!
A couple of my favorite quotes:
"It was like trying to manage a bunch of toddlers with big bank accounts."
"I didn't need to have a Daddy give me a list of boundaries and rules and expectations. I needed a partner who was able to be my safe space."
March 24, 2023
2 stars…
Well this was sadly disappointing. Ik I’m in the minority but compared to the others in this series it was a serious let down in my opinion.
This series (the first two) up until this point was one of my all time faves. I was so excited waiting for this one and it just didn’t do what I wanted it to at all! First of all it took them forever to get together and it felt like we were just expected to remember them from the other books even though it’s been months since I read it.
On top of that we had a nerodivergent main character which I was really excited about and they mentioned his tics but Blaise never actually had a conversation with anyone about it, not even Imil?? So confusing.
I also found myself constantly bored. What was the conflict?!? Everyone on the team knowing? Trevor is like a literal baby constantly and everyone knows, who cares. Idk if just felt like it took forever for them to get together and I never felt satisfied with them.
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Ik technically this was daddy kink but there was like practically nothing sexual about it or any real elements about Dd/lb so it was more middle stuff. And shockingly disappointing.
Well this was sadly disappointing. Ik I’m in the minority but compared to the others in this series it was a serious let down in my opinion.
This series (the first two) up until this point was one of my all time faves. I was so excited waiting for this one and it just didn’t do what I wanted it to at all! First of all it took them forever to get together and it felt like we were just expected to remember them from the other books even though it’s been months since I read it.
On top of that we had a nerodivergent main character which I was really excited about and they mentioned his tics but Blaise never actually had a conversation with anyone about it, not even Imil?? So confusing.
I also found myself constantly bored. What was the conflict?!? Everyone on the team knowing? Trevor is like a literal baby constantly and everyone knows, who cares. Idk if just felt like it took forever for them to get together and I never felt satisfied with them.
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Ik technically this was daddy kink but there was like practically nothing sexual about it or any real elements about Dd/lb so it was more middle stuff. And shockingly disappointing.
March 18, 2023
When Carly announced that Blaise was a daddy in his book, I was a bit worried. We met Blaise in Seth's book and he's been a background character for the past 2 books in this series. He finally gets his HEA and we finally learn why he's so nervous around the players and why he has anxiety in the locker room.
This is definitely a slow burn, but I loved every second of it. You need to read at least the other two books in this series to really know these characters, but all three of the books are amazing. I can't wait for the next one!
One of Carly's best traits as a writer is her ability to craft characters that are realistic. Yes, it's fiction and yes we all know they will get a HEA at the end. However, the characters that Carly creates are realistic and you can't help but fall in love with them. The softer, submissive side to Imil and the confident Daddy in Blaise was lovely to read.
I received an ARC, but all thoughts and opinions are my own!
This is definitely a slow burn, but I loved every second of it. You need to read at least the other two books in this series to really know these characters, but all three of the books are amazing. I can't wait for the next one!
One of Carly's best traits as a writer is her ability to craft characters that are realistic. Yes, it's fiction and yes we all know they will get a HEA at the end. However, the characters that Carly creates are realistic and you can't help but fall in love with them. The softer, submissive side to Imil and the confident Daddy in Blaise was lovely to read.
I received an ARC, but all thoughts and opinions are my own!
March 16, 2023
Imil lived most of his life with hockey as the top priority, first as a player and now as a coach. Based off his appearance, most would assume that he would lean more towards being a Daddy. Instead, he's a Boy. Blaise was never a hockey player and doubtful a hockey fan before he started working at the Grizzlies. Now, he's the director of operations there. His Tourette's Syndrome tiks increase when he is stressed or around too many people (I truly hope I am saying that correctly and apologize if not). So most would not immediately jump to "Blaise is a Dom or Daddy". Except when in private, Blaise is just a wee bit different.
These two have circled around each other for way too long when it all comes to a head. You will thoroughly love this story and Imil and Blaise's journey to HEA.
These two have circled around each other for way too long when it all comes to a head. You will thoroughly love this story and Imil and Blaise's journey to HEA.
March 22, 2023
Imil and Blaise aren't players... but they are the heart of the Nashville Grizzlies. People think they know everything there is to know about them, but they are not at all what they seem. Imil doesn't need a Dom, he needs someone to take care of him off the ice. And Blaise isn't the shy, retiring man he seems to be. He's the Daddy Imil didn't know he needed, and that is fulfilling in ways Blaise never thought he would have. Separately, they do their best for the team, but together, they are precisely what will make them the best at what they do. It's a great read and another installment of the Nashville Grizzlies' story. Best read in order... heck, just read everything she writes! You will not be sorry!
March 26, 2023
I’ve been waiting for Blaise’s story since book one. He always seem so endearing and I loved that he wasn’t what we may have assumed he was. Nervous and shy when in public, Blaise was controlled and dominate at home. Which is just want Imil needed. This assistant coach may always seem in control, but he’s really just a boy looking for the right Daddy to love him.
This was sweet and heavy on the relationship building and low on the steam. These stories are always like a warm hug with the supportive teammates and easy acceptance.
If you’re a fan of this series, you’ll like this. I was hoping Toby would get a story next. He seems to be getting more and more page time and I’m so curious about him a Jean-luc. But I’m sure it will be fun to get to know the new member of the Grizzles.
This was sweet and heavy on the relationship building and low on the steam. These stories are always like a warm hug with the supportive teammates and easy acceptance.
If you’re a fan of this series, you’ll like this. I was hoping Toby would get a story next. He seems to be getting more and more page time and I’m so curious about him a Jean-luc. But I’m sure it will be fun to get to know the new member of the Grizzles.
March 19, 2023
Just smile
I have been interested to learn more about Blaise since first meeting and was surprised ti find him being a Dom! In the best way possible love when characters surprise me and show a two separate yet whole pieces to make them the perfect character they are. And on the flip side Imil is the super sweet sub who just needs a daddy to accept him as he is. Thank you Carly for bringing light to Tourettes as not just the verbal but the motor tics as well. As someone on the neurodiverse scale it's always beautiful to see representation done as not a hindrance but just a part of life that you work with. Well done looking forward to your next book.
I have been interested to learn more about Blaise since first meeting and was surprised ti find him being a Dom! In the best way possible love when characters surprise me and show a two separate yet whole pieces to make them the perfect character they are. And on the flip side Imil is the super sweet sub who just needs a daddy to accept him as he is. Thank you Carly for bringing light to Tourettes as not just the verbal but the motor tics as well. As someone on the neurodiverse scale it's always beautiful to see representation done as not a hindrance but just a part of life that you work with. Well done looking forward to your next book.
March 19, 2023
Sweet Daddy Surprise!
Relating to his social anxieties, Blaise has always been a special character to me. Coach Bouchard, Imil, gravitates toward him and feels protective over him. Behind closed doors, both men are opposite of their social persona. It was such a great surprise to see Blaise step up into the Daddy role. He's a natural dominant when it's needed. Coach Imil is someone who needs it but never thought he could have it. I love how these two slipped into their roles with each other so easily, like it was always meant to be. The love and happiness between them radiates off the page!!
Relating to his social anxieties, Blaise has always been a special character to me. Coach Bouchard, Imil, gravitates toward him and feels protective over him. Behind closed doors, both men are opposite of their social persona. It was such a great surprise to see Blaise step up into the Daddy role. He's a natural dominant when it's needed. Coach Imil is someone who needs it but never thought he could have it. I love how these two slipped into their roles with each other so easily, like it was always meant to be. The love and happiness between them radiates off the page!!
March 20, 2023
so sweet
Such a great addition to the grizzlies series. Wa so excited to get Blaise’s story after seeing him in previous books. Learning that behind the socially awkward and anxious guy was a take charge Dom/daddy was quite the surprise. Then to have the other dichotomous character of imil. Assistant coach. Who is all business and take charge and protective of Blaise at work be the boy who has longed for a daddy to take care of him. Great story. Loved seeing how all the guys equally loved both Blaise and imil and saw things most would have overlooked. I hope Toby and Jean-luc get a book.
Such a great addition to the grizzlies series. Wa so excited to get Blaise’s story after seeing him in previous books. Learning that behind the socially awkward and anxious guy was a take charge Dom/daddy was quite the surprise. Then to have the other dichotomous character of imil. Assistant coach. Who is all business and take charge and protective of Blaise at work be the boy who has longed for a daddy to take care of him. Great story. Loved seeing how all the guys equally loved both Blaise and imil and saw things most would have overlooked. I hope Toby and Jean-luc get a book.
April 8, 2023
Very enjoyable sweet story about Blaise, who we met in other books, and Imil one of the coaches. Attracted to each other but worried about compatibility, they finally learn who is the little in the relationship and to Blaise's surprise and joy, he learns Imil fits his Daddy kink perfectly.
There's a lot of hockey in this one and more game and practice time than the others. There's also not as much time between the sheets but that was not an issue for me. I was more interested in each character and in their reactions to each other than I was in the bedroom details and this story fit nicely with the others in the series.
Definitely moving on to the next one.
There's a lot of hockey in this one and more game and practice time than the others. There's also not as much time between the sheets but that was not an issue for me. I was more interested in each character and in their reactions to each other than I was in the bedroom details and this story fit nicely with the others in the series.
Definitely moving on to the next one.
March 18, 2023
Imil and Blaise were two older men who were dedicated to their careers and at the point in their lives were they thought they were too old to find the right person for themselves.
They always gravitated towards each other during team socials and when certain events lead to Imils boy persona and Blaises dominance being revealed, they were finally able to explore the connection between them.
A slow build, fun read that has great team catch ups, humorous moments, good Daddy/boy scenes , a bit of passionate engagement and a great ending.
A wonderful addition to this series.
They always gravitated towards each other during team socials and when certain events lead to Imils boy persona and Blaises dominance being revealed, they were finally able to explore the connection between them.
A slow build, fun read that has great team catch ups, humorous moments, good Daddy/boy scenes , a bit of passionate engagement and a great ending.
A wonderful addition to this series.
March 28, 2023
sooo darn cute
This is the book pick me up I really needed. I was so looking forward to Blaise’s book and I have to say: except the unexpected. Carly Marie-you worked your magic in making this a heart warming, dear story with heart and soul. I loved getting to know the Assistant Coach Imil and Director Blaise. This was a different feel from the other Grizzlies novels, but so good and sweet. Highly recommend and want to revisit the others in the series for a refresh of their beginnings. So happy.
This is the book pick me up I really needed. I was so looking forward to Blaise’s book and I have to say: except the unexpected. Carly Marie-you worked your magic in making this a heart warming, dear story with heart and soul. I loved getting to know the Assistant Coach Imil and Director Blaise. This was a different feel from the other Grizzlies novels, but so good and sweet. Highly recommend and want to revisit the others in the series for a refresh of their beginnings. So happy.
April 3, 2023
ok but it felt disjointed
Now, i didn’t hate it, but honestly I didn’t love it. Both characters were nice enough, but I didn’t like them together. I didn’t feel any bond between them. There were random scenes and conversations that felt like they were building to something but then… nothing. What was the point of the improving player on the other team. Imil’s name not being Imil and he is related to some famous ex player but this is never bought up with his boyfriend? so what was the point of mentioning it? There was a lot of disjointed stuff that didn’t flow
Now, i didn’t hate it, but honestly I didn’t love it. Both characters were nice enough, but I didn’t like them together. I didn’t feel any bond between them. There were random scenes and conversations that felt like they were building to something but then… nothing. What was the point of the improving player on the other team. Imil’s name not being Imil and he is related to some famous ex player but this is never bought up with his boyfriend? so what was the point of mentioning it? There was a lot of disjointed stuff that didn’t flow
March 12, 2023
I absolutely loved this story. I am so in love with this series. This was Blaise and Imil’s story and it really surprised me. I was not expecting the twist in this one but it turned out so perfect. This story was so sweet and so entertaining that I did not want to put it down. I also really enjoyed getting to see more of the other characters and I really hope to read more stories set in this world.
March 17, 2023
Brilliant
Wow . Blaise and Imil. What a perfect couple.
After dancing around each other at work, but getting to know each other they finally talk about what they want from a relationship.
Imil is always there protecting Blaise from the madness of the team, but when Blaise finds Imil asleep at his desk he knows Imil is perfect for him.
Love that Imil is a lot older than Blaise, but is secure in knowing what he wants.
Thoroughly enjoyed can't wait for next in this series.
Wow . Blaise and Imil. What a perfect couple.
After dancing around each other at work, but getting to know each other they finally talk about what they want from a relationship.
Imil is always there protecting Blaise from the madness of the team, but when Blaise finds Imil asleep at his desk he knows Imil is perfect for him.
Love that Imil is a lot older than Blaise, but is secure in knowing what he wants.
Thoroughly enjoyed can't wait for next in this series.
August 18, 2024
This book was sooo cute! I loved both the characters so much and how soft they were with one another. The way that Imil was so confident on the outside when around people and so shy when he was alone. The best friend relationship he had with Milo was adorable and I loved the way that they supported each other. I loved the relationship that developed between Imil and Blaise. I adored the way that they communicated and grew tho love each other for exactly as they were.
March 16, 2023
I've wanted Blaise's story since I first read about him, and this book doesn't disappoint. Getting to see more of Blaise, and read what he's like away from the arena was beautiful. As for Imil, his rink persona, is so different from his home persona. It was nice to see these two come together, and realize they were exactly what the other needed!
March 17, 2023
Another great book!
This is the third book in this series. They have all been great. Ms. Marie consistently writes amazing characters with all the feels and steam you could want. She has become a "one-click" author for me over the past year. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!
This is the third book in this series. They have all been great. Ms. Marie consistently writes amazing characters with all the feels and steam you could want. She has become a "one-click" author for me over the past year. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!
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