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Called Up
Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer considers herself a modern day woman with a 1950s flair. Mixing in her penchant for pin-up style day dresses and a bold red lip, she's in her last year of law school, living on her own in an apartment she loves, and dating a respectable guy. If only her boyfriend were the one starring in her dreams each night. No, that honor goes directly to her brother's roommate, teammate, and best friend: Henri "Hank the Tank" DuBois.
Lusting after your teammate's sister tends to bring guys closer--think his fist to my face kind of closer--and that's not a chance Hank is willing to take. No matter that he considers the night he met Bitsy, the night of her 21st birthday, as the night his world stopped and started. No. Instead, he sits in the friend zone and waits for any glimpse of Bitsy (and her lace garters) he can get.
Then the unimaginable happens and one call changes everything. Now, Bitsy and Hank have to decide what actually matters and if there's a real chance for them. Hank's a sniper on the ice, but will he scare her off with a full press?
***
Described as a "recipe for a delicious evening": start with "my brother's best friend." A dash of "who hurt you?" and all the spice! Grab you something cool to drink, because it's going to get hot!
--Dropped Puck Series is a 6 book hockey romance series following the Chicago Sharks as they fight through a season of ups and downs. A collection of stand alones, each book can be read on their own, but I do recommend following the order in which the books are published as the characters do make follow up appearances in the subsequent stories.
Lusting after your teammate's sister tends to bring guys closer--think his fist to my face kind of closer--and that's not a chance Hank is willing to take. No matter that he considers the night he met Bitsy, the night of her 21st birthday, as the night his world stopped and started. No. Instead, he sits in the friend zone and waits for any glimpse of Bitsy (and her lace garters) he can get.
Then the unimaginable happens and one call changes everything. Now, Bitsy and Hank have to decide what actually matters and if there's a real chance for them. Hank's a sniper on the ice, but will he scare her off with a full press?
***
Described as a "recipe for a delicious evening": start with "my brother's best friend." A dash of "who hurt you?" and all the spice! Grab you something cool to drink, because it's going to get hot!
--Dropped Puck Series is a 6 book hockey romance series following the Chicago Sharks as they fight through a season of ups and downs. A collection of stand alones, each book can be read on their own, but I do recommend following the order in which the books are published as the characters do make follow up appearances in the subsequent stories.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2023
About the author
Rosie P. Burke
15 books27 followersWhen Rosie P. Burke got her Bachelor AND Masters degrees in Recreation and Sport Management, she never thought she'd be using them to write sweet and spicy sports romance stories. And yet... PIVOT! She recently published the final book in her first series: the Dropped Puck Series, a six-book series of interconnected stand-alones that focus on the Chicago Sharks hockey team and the women who put those all-stars in their place. Her books are love stories with witty banter, fun spicy-times, and semi-realistic situations (she's never actually dated a professional athlete, so don't AT her if you have. Or do. She loves a good story!) The ultimate compliment would be a "one handed read with relatable characters"! She's hard at work on her newest series which is sure to be sports-themed since sports + smut is a lot of what she knows.
This SAHM lives in Illinois with her husband, their two kids, and a dog who does just enough to keep his spot in the bed. A big fan of historical fiction, Young Adult, and romance of all tropes. She also likes cross-stitch, watching movies, and working out in her home gym. While she's not big on peopling for long periods of time, this southern-raised author does love making new friends.
*** Truth? The older I get, the more I realize: Read the books. Watch the movies. Do you and be you because lord knows we need more gems in a world of fakes. Late in Life doesn't mean it's too late.
This SAHM lives in Illinois with her husband, their two kids, and a dog who does just enough to keep his spot in the bed. A big fan of historical fiction, Young Adult, and romance of all tropes. She also likes cross-stitch, watching movies, and working out in her home gym. While she's not big on peopling for long periods of time, this southern-raised author does love making new friends.
*** Truth? The older I get, the more I realize: Read the books. Watch the movies. Do you and be you because lord knows we need more gems in a world of fakes. Late in Life doesn't mean it's too late.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 2, 2024
Stopped reading at 7% after this gross reveal that the "hero" has wanted the heroine since they first met but has slept with other women who looked like her and pretended they were her. Here's the quote:
---
"I never could get myself to dial up any of the puck bunnies I had saved in my phone over the years. As desperate as I was with want, even I knew there was no way I could hook up with some random chick and then look at Bitsy the next day. I only allowed myself to scratch that itch on away games. The bunnies always vaguely resembled Bitsy with their light hair and dark eyes. Enough booze made the beer goggles work their magic and I could imagine it was her bouncing on my dick in those dark hotel rooms."
---
This book is not for me or others like me who would be bothered by a cowardly male main character who would rather pretend to be with the heroine than actually man up and ask her out.
There is NO WAY he can be redeemed for me. It's gross.
Plus, this is after we learn she wanted him the first time they met, too. But he pushed her away.
I received the audiobook as an advanced reader copy and sadly, it's not great. The female narrator is okay. But only for Bitsy's POV. She sounds almost exactly the same in the douchebag's POV which makes it hard to tell who is telling what part of the story.
---
"I never could get myself to dial up any of the puck bunnies I had saved in my phone over the years. As desperate as I was with want, even I knew there was no way I could hook up with some random chick and then look at Bitsy the next day. I only allowed myself to scratch that itch on away games. The bunnies always vaguely resembled Bitsy with their light hair and dark eyes. Enough booze made the beer goggles work their magic and I could imagine it was her bouncing on my dick in those dark hotel rooms."
---
This book is not for me or others like me who would be bothered by a cowardly male main character who would rather pretend to be with the heroine than actually man up and ask her out.
There is NO WAY he can be redeemed for me. It's gross.
Plus, this is after we learn she wanted him the first time they met, too. But he pushed her away.
I received the audiobook as an advanced reader copy and sadly, it's not great. The female narrator is okay. But only for Bitsy's POV. She sounds almost exactly the same in the douchebag's POV which makes it hard to tell who is telling what part of the story.
July 13, 2022
ARC REVIEW!
Huge thanks to the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you ever had the thought “if only it was the brothers best friend trope!” while reading the Off-Campus series by Elle Kennedy then this is most definitely the book for you! The story follows college students Bitsy and hockey player Hank as they figure out their feelings for eachother after YEARS of secret mutual pinning. The dynamics and characters in this book are so well done. The brother sister bond is the absolute best. I absolutely love how Bitsy is a confident woman yet still experiences doubt and anxiety over her relationship with Hank, and of course Hank (probably the sweetest book boyfriend to ever exist!) is there to kiss away all her worries. 😩❤️
I will tell you that my absolute FAVORITE scene is where Bitsy shows up to the hockey game in HANKS NUMBER and cheers him on from HIS SEATS!! Definitely some very cheesy scenes but I’ve fallen head over heels for this book and cannot wait for more in this series.
Called Up is a steamy and slightly dramatic book that’ll either leave you blushing, laughing, or possibly wanting to hit someone. (Spoiler alert, we all want to hit Pierce.)
Please note this book deals with and contains domestic violence/abuse, it can be triggering for some readers so please check trigger warnings and read with caution. Both myself and the author do not condone nor promote domestic violence/abuse.
Huge thanks to the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you ever had the thought “if only it was the brothers best friend trope!” while reading the Off-Campus series by Elle Kennedy then this is most definitely the book for you! The story follows college students Bitsy and hockey player Hank as they figure out their feelings for eachother after YEARS of secret mutual pinning. The dynamics and characters in this book are so well done. The brother sister bond is the absolute best. I absolutely love how Bitsy is a confident woman yet still experiences doubt and anxiety over her relationship with Hank, and of course Hank (probably the sweetest book boyfriend to ever exist!) is there to kiss away all her worries. 😩❤️
I will tell you that my absolute FAVORITE scene is where Bitsy shows up to the hockey game in HANKS NUMBER and cheers him on from HIS SEATS!! Definitely some very cheesy scenes but I’ve fallen head over heels for this book and cannot wait for more in this series.
Called Up is a steamy and slightly dramatic book that’ll either leave you blushing, laughing, or possibly wanting to hit someone. (Spoiler alert, we all want to hit Pierce.)
Please note this book deals with and contains domestic violence/abuse, it can be triggering for some readers so please check trigger warnings and read with caution. Both myself and the author do not condone nor promote domestic violence/abuse.
August 20, 2022
𝙏𝙒: This book does include scenes of emotïonal + physïcal domestïc äbùse (both on-&-off the page) but not between the main couple. It's handled with as much care as possible though, but it's something to be aware of. 💕
𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙐𝙥 is the first book in Rosie's new 𝙋𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙙 series which will be a 6 book hockey romance series! It was also part of a few "firsts" for 𝘔𝘌 too: my 1st hockey (or even just sports) romance, & my 1st time being a part of the "alpha reading" stage of a book! A process that's been one of the most fun & interesting things ever! I've not only had the chance to see this amazing book & these characters develop, but I've also made an incredible friend in the process!
Now, I feel like I 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 be a smidge biased because of my behind-the-scenes look & understanding of these characters, but Hank & Bitsy will forever be some of the sweetest, funniest & most relatable characters I've read!
What I love about them is that even though they had incredible chemistry from the moment they met, they denied their feelings for each other for 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴! (Because Hank is actually 8 years older than Bitsy & 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥!) Instead they built an amazing friendship first, which meant that when they 𝘥𝘪𝘥 finally admit their feelings for each other, it was so much more impactful! I'm not kidding, this book had me 𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 because of how much I loved these characters! I also screamed & laughed my @ss off more than a few times! 😂
Overall I not only fell in love with Bitsy & Hank's characters - their backstories, personalities & who they are as a couple - but also who they are when they're on their own! They're both clearly their own people, even though they know each other better than almost anyone else! I feel like it's so important to get a "feel" for who characters are 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 of just being together! I also fell in love with some of the side-characters too...𝘶𝘩𝘮 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰 𝘉𝘳𝘺𝘢𝘯 👀
Overall I absolutely loved this book & I honestly can't wait to read the rest of them once they're out!
𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙐𝙥 is the first book in Rosie's new 𝙋𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙙 series which will be a 6 book hockey romance series! It was also part of a few "firsts" for 𝘔𝘌 too: my 1st hockey (or even just sports) romance, & my 1st time being a part of the "alpha reading" stage of a book! A process that's been one of the most fun & interesting things ever! I've not only had the chance to see this amazing book & these characters develop, but I've also made an incredible friend in the process!
Now, I feel like I 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 be a smidge biased because of my behind-the-scenes look & understanding of these characters, but Hank & Bitsy will forever be some of the sweetest, funniest & most relatable characters I've read!
What I love about them is that even though they had incredible chemistry from the moment they met, they denied their feelings for each other for 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴! (Because Hank is actually 8 years older than Bitsy & 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥!) Instead they built an amazing friendship first, which meant that when they 𝘥𝘪𝘥 finally admit their feelings for each other, it was so much more impactful! I'm not kidding, this book had me 𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 because of how much I loved these characters! I also screamed & laughed my @ss off more than a few times! 😂
Overall I not only fell in love with Bitsy & Hank's characters - their backstories, personalities & who they are as a couple - but also who they are when they're on their own! They're both clearly their own people, even though they know each other better than almost anyone else! I feel like it's so important to get a "feel" for who characters are 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 of just being together! I also fell in love with some of the side-characters too...𝘶𝘩𝘮 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰 𝘉𝘳𝘺𝘢𝘯 👀
Overall I absolutely loved this book & I honestly can't wait to read the rest of them once they're out!
August 13, 2022
Called Up is the first novel I have read by Rosie P. Burke and I was pleasantly surprised to have found another author to add to my list of favorites! The story centers on a young woman Elizabeth Thayer (for those who do not know her too well), in her last year of law school, who was born a few decades too late because of her love for all things from the 1950’s when women wore bright red lipstick, lace garters and stockings, and clothing that emphasized and accentuated their curves, of which “Bitsy” (for those who know her well) has been over blessed. Her big brother is a professional hockey player who has been recently traded to a new professional hockey team. Bitsy attends his very first game after being traded. It happens to be her 21st birthday and her brother promised to take her out after the game for her first legal drink. Bitsy likes the moves of a player on the team, who is fast and fierce. It turns out he is her brother’s new roommate and best friend. Henry DuBois is tall, huge, enormous, gorgeous, and built like a tank, thus (for those who know him) his nickname is "Hank the Tank" of a man who is feared and fast on the ice. When he and Bitsy meet, Hank is knocked over by her beauty and style, but lets her know that she is his teammates little sister and off-limits. Bitsy is knocked off her feet by Hank, but accepts that he has to be in the friend zone. Over the years, the entire team adopts Bitsy as their little sister/mascot. The story opens against this background after a particularly brutal game where Hank is sucker punched by the opposing teams’ enforcer in the head and is bleeding and dizzy from the encounter. Bitsy is getting ready for a date with a man neither her brother or Hank can stand, when her brother calls to ask her to check on Hank until he can get back to their apartment and take care of him. Despite the fact that Bitsy has a boyfriend, her chemistry with Hank sizzles loudly whenever they are around one another, and she dreams and day dreams of Hank, his body, his face, his kindness, and the fact that he is not her boyfriend. Her boyfriend is nice, but does not light any fires in her heart or elsewhere. Bitsy thinks about Hank more than the man she is dating and has decided that she has had enough and tells him it’s over. I won’t give away any more of the plot because it is too good to miss discovering on your own. The story is hot, the chemistry between Hank and Bitsy sizzles and crackles whenever they are in each other’s company, and their attraction is magnetic and magical. This book will leave you with all the feels one could want in a romance. Buy this book, it is a keeper!
August 15, 2022
Firstly, I really think the blurb should have included a trigger warning - there is domestic abuse on the page, though not between the lead couple. For those who need it, be aware.
Secondly, this is an intense, really emotionally engaging story. I actually stopped reading it twice and came back to it because, whilst a very good story, I definitely had to be in the right headspace to read it. This shows craft skill on the author’s part but, again, reader be aware.
This story is dual POV, well written, and I enjoyed the deep character development and engagement of both lead and secondary characters. The author notes this is the first in a series of interconnected standalone stories and the interconnection is made clear by the number of secondary characters who are woven clearly into each other’s lives. Bitsy and Hank, the lead characters are deeply engaging. I appreciated that, whilst there was consideration of the fact that Bitsy’s brother was Hank’s teammate, roommate, and friend, it wasn’t a boogeyman that overshadowed the relationship - I appreciated that there was the expectation he would handle their relationship maturely, and that he did. I enjoyed the gradual building of the the romantic relationship, and the individual lead character development. I also appreciated that there was no expectation that individuals would miraculously heal themselves and the inclusion of mental health professionals was incorporated with minimal fuss as a normal method of dealing with trauma.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Secondly, this is an intense, really emotionally engaging story. I actually stopped reading it twice and came back to it because, whilst a very good story, I definitely had to be in the right headspace to read it. This shows craft skill on the author’s part but, again, reader be aware.
This story is dual POV, well written, and I enjoyed the deep character development and engagement of both lead and secondary characters. The author notes this is the first in a series of interconnected standalone stories and the interconnection is made clear by the number of secondary characters who are woven clearly into each other’s lives. Bitsy and Hank, the lead characters are deeply engaging. I appreciated that, whilst there was consideration of the fact that Bitsy’s brother was Hank’s teammate, roommate, and friend, it wasn’t a boogeyman that overshadowed the relationship - I appreciated that there was the expectation he would handle their relationship maturely, and that he did. I enjoyed the gradual building of the the romantic relationship, and the individual lead character development. I also appreciated that there was no expectation that individuals would miraculously heal themselves and the inclusion of mental health professionals was incorporated with minimal fuss as a normal method of dealing with trauma.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2023
Called Up by Rosie P Burke is a good, and enjoyable spicy hockey brothers-best-friend age-gap pinup girl friends to lovers romance read. The story has a great entertaining world building story line. The characters are great, and they have great chemistry. This story is a very entertaining read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to Read
May 27, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/27/2023)! 🎁
July 14, 2022
🦋I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.🦋
Overall Rating: 3.75 ⭐️
Spice Rating: 2.5 🔥
We love a good friends-to-lovers romance!! Especially when hockey is involved 😍
Bitsy is a 24 year old aspiring attorney and Hank “The Tank” is a 32 year old pro hockey player. Did I mention this was an age-gap romance as well? 😉 These two are secretly in love with each other for three years until one day they decide to just go for it. We get to follow their journey as they learn to love each other in a different way, with plenty of steam and romance mixed in.
Make sure you head the trigger warnings in the beginning. No punches were pulled in this story.The author does a great job at portraying the reality of domestic violence and how it can effect survivors and their loved ones. The details are so well written you transport into the scene with these characters. We also get a glimpse of what healing looks like and how that journey looks different for everyone.
The side characters in this story are fantastic. Emerson is my spirit animal and I can’t wait to read about her and Darren 👀 I NEED that book.
The spice…let me tell you….so stinking good! I gave this book 2.5 🔥 simply because it’s only a fraction of this story. There’s just enough to feel realistic but not take over the plot. It’s well written & the dirty talk is ✨chefs kiss✨ you’ll love the body positivity from King Hank 👑
And the Drive In Movie scene…. 🥵
What would make this a 5 ⭐️ read:
I need MORE. I want more backstory on all of these characters. Where did they come from? What were their families like? Why is Bitsy insecure? What about Pierce & Bitsy’s relationship? I would’ve gladly read 10 more chapters to get a little more in depth with these guys. I found myself frustrated with Bitsy’s personality. Sometimes she came off as immature to me. Hank is almost the perfect man, I found myself at odds with my idea of a burly hockey player from a bad neighborhood versus the thoughtful and very self-aware man that we were given.
Overall, I binged this in 2 days. If you want an easy read, sprinkle of spice, and some hockey. This is your book!
Overall Rating: 3.75 ⭐️
Spice Rating: 2.5 🔥
We love a good friends-to-lovers romance!! Especially when hockey is involved 😍
Bitsy is a 24 year old aspiring attorney and Hank “The Tank” is a 32 year old pro hockey player. Did I mention this was an age-gap romance as well? 😉 These two are secretly in love with each other for three years until one day they decide to just go for it. We get to follow their journey as they learn to love each other in a different way, with plenty of steam and romance mixed in.
Make sure you head the trigger warnings in the beginning. No punches were pulled in this story.The author does a great job at portraying the reality of domestic violence and how it can effect survivors and their loved ones. The details are so well written you transport into the scene with these characters. We also get a glimpse of what healing looks like and how that journey looks different for everyone.
The side characters in this story are fantastic. Emerson is my spirit animal and I can’t wait to read about her and Darren 👀 I NEED that book.
The spice…let me tell you….so stinking good! I gave this book 2.5 🔥 simply because it’s only a fraction of this story. There’s just enough to feel realistic but not take over the plot. It’s well written & the dirty talk is ✨chefs kiss✨ you’ll love the body positivity from King Hank 👑
And the Drive In Movie scene…. 🥵
What would make this a 5 ⭐️ read:
I need MORE. I want more backstory on all of these characters. Where did they come from? What were their families like? Why is Bitsy insecure? What about Pierce & Bitsy’s relationship? I would’ve gladly read 10 more chapters to get a little more in depth with these guys. I found myself frustrated with Bitsy’s personality. Sometimes she came off as immature to me. Hank is almost the perfect man, I found myself at odds with my idea of a burly hockey player from a bad neighborhood versus the thoughtful and very self-aware man that we were given.
Overall, I binged this in 2 days. If you want an easy read, sprinkle of spice, and some hockey. This is your book!
August 1, 2023
Fun characters and a spicy plot! I’m not typically a romance reader, so this made me blush! 😊
April 16, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from the author. (Thank you, Rosie!)
TW: This book contains scenes of emotional and physical domestic abuse.
It all starts the night of Bitsy's 21st birthday, and her older brothers first hockey game on his new team.
Thats the night she meets Hank.
After years of silently pining for each other, in one of those "everyone else can tell except each other" situations, an incident brings Bitsy's world shattering around her, and her brother and Hank are there to help her get back on her feet.
This book is sweet, steamy, and just makes your heart melt. Its a cute, and quick read.
TW: This book contains scenes of emotional and physical domestic abuse.
It all starts the night of Bitsy's 21st birthday, and her older brothers first hockey game on his new team.
Thats the night she meets Hank.
After years of silently pining for each other, in one of those "everyone else can tell except each other" situations, an incident brings Bitsy's world shattering around her, and her brother and Hank are there to help her get back on her feet.
This book is sweet, steamy, and just makes your heart melt. Its a cute, and quick read.
October 30, 2023
The story of Bitsy and Hank is so sweet! Bitsy is a fun loving woman who overcomes personal trauma and still believes in relationships and love. Hank is the atypical athlete who knows the value of a relationship and waiting for the one he wants. The storyline is great and the ex boyfriend and brother bring dramatic flair to the story. I highly recommend this novel and look forward to the next in the series!
February 11, 2023
The romance you may have seen coming, but many surprises with each page turn had you waiting on edge to find out the fate of Bitsy and Hank!
August 1, 2023
Love this series ❤️
April 17, 2025
Called Up is the first book in the Dropped Puck series, and it's the perfect beginning for the story of the NHL Chicago Sharks. The series revolves around the teammates, the families and the fans, all on a journey to the NHL Championship and the Stanley Cup. Bitsy Thayer is the younger sister of Shark's superstar Brian Thayer. She's in her last year of law school and she's studying to take the bar. But her real joy is following the Sharks, mainly because she has a crush on Brian's best friend, Hank Dubois. Unbeknownst to the other, they've both harbored feelings but Hank hasn't acted on them because she's not yet 21. They've kept it underwraps for years and on her 21st birthday, they discover the truth, but Bitsy has a boyfriend. Pierce (pencil d) is a man with many demons, but he's been able to keep them at bay, until Bitsy comes home one night to accusations that she's cheating. Pierce is incensed and Bitsy is in the way of his anger. (Domestic violence is one piece of the plot and Rosie handles it with aplomb and sensitivity.) Her brother and Hank insist that she move in with them so they can keep her safe, but when the team is playing on the road, Pierce finds her. It's definitely traumatic but it's so well-written that it feels as if we're experiencing the pain and fear. As she and Hank take the next step of living together, their love story blossoms. This is a marvelous story that expertly introduces many of the main characters, along with their backstory. It's a book that is as quietly unsettling as it is tender and emotionally gripping, all leading up to what's going to be a very happy ending.This can be considered a standalone, but the series is richer with more depth if the books are read in order. Kamryn Myles does an admirable job with the narration. Her dynamic voice, varied intonation and inflection gave each character a unique voice and personality. She kept the pace steady and it was a joy to listen to her bring the story to life.
May 27, 2024
I think I found a new fav! 💕
Thanks to the author, Rosie P. Burke, and the team at Story Origin App for providing me with an audio review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are my own.
Called Up was just soo good! This is a hockey, best friend’s little sister / older brother’s best friend, (8 yr) age gap romance. But it was so much more than that. The book starts with us being introduced to Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer on her 21st bday when her brother (Bryan) takes her out to celebrate with his new hockey team. There she meets Henri "Hank the Tank" (sorry but im not calling him that 🙄, we’ll just stick with Hank) DuBois whom she instantly has an attraction to. But as he is one of her brother’s new teammates, she isn’t sure if this attraction is mutual. Fast forward 3 years later, Hank and Bryan are now best friends, as well as roommates. Meanwhile, Bitsy is now in a relationship but, she has since grown very close to Hank, and that initial attraction has grown more into stronger feelings. Unbeknownst to her, Hank was also attracted to her upon meeting, and now also has feelings for her. When Bitsy encounters some serious issues in her current relationship, she needs somewhere new to live, and moves in with her brother and Hank.
As mentioned, this was just sooo good! It had the perfect combination and balance of light hearted romance fun (between Hank and Bitsy), whilst also tackling some very serious topics. I just loved their chemistry! I also loved how much Hank cared for and really took care of Bitsy when she really needed him. Another thing I loved was Bryan’s relationship with his sister. Overall, this was such a great read!
As for the audio, it was narrated by Kamryn Myles. She was great at the overall narration, and I loved her portrayal of the various main and supporting characters. Even though the actual voices and emotions throughout the audiobook were excellent, and I felt that the story came to life via the audio, the actual editing of the audio left much to be desired. There were issues within the editing, such as repeated sentences or paragraphs. These were confusing at first when I didn’t know what was going on. Once I realised, they became very annoying and sadly took me out of the story whenever they occurred. The author should probably look into this and organise some sort of re-editing of the audio.
CW: Please note, this book does contain scenes of emotional & physical domestic abuse (both on-&-off the page) but not between the main couple. It's handled with as much care as possible. But please be aware and take care if any of these are triggering for you. 💕
Thanks to the author, Rosie P. Burke, and the team at Story Origin App for providing me with an audio review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are my own.
Called Up was just soo good! This is a hockey, best friend’s little sister / older brother’s best friend, (8 yr) age gap romance. But it was so much more than that. The book starts with us being introduced to Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer on her 21st bday when her brother (Bryan) takes her out to celebrate with his new hockey team. There she meets Henri "Hank the Tank" (sorry but im not calling him that 🙄, we’ll just stick with Hank) DuBois whom she instantly has an attraction to. But as he is one of her brother’s new teammates, she isn’t sure if this attraction is mutual. Fast forward 3 years later, Hank and Bryan are now best friends, as well as roommates. Meanwhile, Bitsy is now in a relationship but, she has since grown very close to Hank, and that initial attraction has grown more into stronger feelings. Unbeknownst to her, Hank was also attracted to her upon meeting, and now also has feelings for her. When Bitsy encounters some serious issues in her current relationship, she needs somewhere new to live, and moves in with her brother and Hank.
As mentioned, this was just sooo good! It had the perfect combination and balance of light hearted romance fun (between Hank and Bitsy), whilst also tackling some very serious topics. I just loved their chemistry! I also loved how much Hank cared for and really took care of Bitsy when she really needed him. Another thing I loved was Bryan’s relationship with his sister. Overall, this was such a great read!
As for the audio, it was narrated by Kamryn Myles. She was great at the overall narration, and I loved her portrayal of the various main and supporting characters. Even though the actual voices and emotions throughout the audiobook were excellent, and I felt that the story came to life via the audio, the actual editing of the audio left much to be desired. There were issues within the editing, such as repeated sentences or paragraphs. These were confusing at first when I didn’t know what was going on. Once I realised, they became very annoying and sadly took me out of the story whenever they occurred. The author should probably look into this and organise some sort of re-editing of the audio.
CW: Please note, this book does contain scenes of emotional & physical domestic abuse (both on-&-off the page) but not between the main couple. It's handled with as much care as possible. But please be aware and take care if any of these are triggering for you. 💕
July 22, 2024
This is my first Rosie P Burke story and I really enjoyed it.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and it was excellently narrated by Kamryn Myles,she was able to voice both male and female characters flawlessly.
You don't even realise there is only one narrator she does an amazing job I liked listening to her very much.
This is a best friends little sister,age gap and friends to lovers story based around hockey and a young woman Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer.She is a budding lawyer whose brother plays professional hockey along with his bestfriend Hank.
Bitsy has crushed on Hank since she was a kid but she never imagined that Hank would be interested in her because she was 8 years younger than her and because he was best friends with her brother.
Little does Bitsy know but Hank also holds a torch for her,in fact Hank and Bitsy have become really good friends..best friends....But Bitsy has a boyfriend..
Honestly I was like what why does she have to have a boyfriend nooooooooo...
But honestly it all works out,Hank is so protective of Bitsy he would anything for her.
This book tells the story of how Hank and Bitsy finally cross the line from friends to lovers.
This story involves abuse and sensitive readers to this subject be aware and proceed to read with caution.
Rosie P Burke manages to create such a realistic story of a manipulative relationship that Bitsy finds herself in...It is Hank who is there to catch her when she falls.
He is so swoony..Now this book is not all serious because wowsers when Hank and Bitsy start a sexual relationship it is scorching hot and Rosie P Burke writes these scenes brilliantly they are so HOT !!!
This is a really great audiobook and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it.
Fantastic
5 Stars
I listened to the audiobook of this story and it was excellently narrated by Kamryn Myles,she was able to voice both male and female characters flawlessly.
You don't even realise there is only one narrator she does an amazing job I liked listening to her very much.
This is a best friends little sister,age gap and friends to lovers story based around hockey and a young woman Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer.She is a budding lawyer whose brother plays professional hockey along with his bestfriend Hank.
Bitsy has crushed on Hank since she was a kid but she never imagined that Hank would be interested in her because she was 8 years younger than her and because he was best friends with her brother.
Little does Bitsy know but Hank also holds a torch for her,in fact Hank and Bitsy have become really good friends..best friends....But Bitsy has a boyfriend..
Honestly I was like what why does she have to have a boyfriend nooooooooo...
But honestly it all works out,Hank is so protective of Bitsy he would anything for her.
This book tells the story of how Hank and Bitsy finally cross the line from friends to lovers.
This story involves abuse and sensitive readers to this subject be aware and proceed to read with caution.
Rosie P Burke manages to create such a realistic story of a manipulative relationship that Bitsy finds herself in...It is Hank who is there to catch her when she falls.
He is so swoony..Now this book is not all serious because wowsers when Hank and Bitsy start a sexual relationship it is scorching hot and Rosie P Burke writes these scenes brilliantly they are so HOT !!!
This is a really great audiobook and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it.
Fantastic
5 Stars
July 30, 2024
Called Up
Dropped Puck Series, Book 1
By: Rosie P. Burke
Narrated by: Kamryn Myles
Hockey, brother's best friend romance? Yes please. This is my first Rosie P Burke book and it will not be my last! This caught my attention and had me jump in my seat a couple of times! Meet Bitsy. She is 21 and in college, and is going to her brother's hockey game. He is a professional athlete, and was recently traded closer to home, so now she can enjoy rooting for her brother in the stadium. She becomes the team little sister, especially to Hank, her brother's roommate. A few years go by, Bitsy is in a relationship and it's becoming more difficult. Not only because Pierce, her boyfriend is pushing her to be more, but her feelings for Hank are overpowering her train of thought. Hank has those feelings too, but will not act on them, there is a bro code in place, so best friends with the woman who has his heart has to be enough. That is until it isn't. When Bitsy gets in trouble, he is the first in line to help and now their feelings come to surface. How does it end? These two have a lot to deal with. Keeping Bitsy safe is top priority, but love is hard to suppress. What will her brother and the rest of the team say? And what if the danger comes again? This is a fabulous listen! It's just the right amount of romance, spice and suspense. I loved it and can't wait for book 2.
Kamryn Miles does a fabulous job bringing this story alive. She is new to me, keeps the story flowing and easily transitions between male and female voices. I enjoyed her pace and building of romance and suspense. It was an enjoyable performance.
Dropped Puck Series, Book 1
By: Rosie P. Burke
Narrated by: Kamryn Myles
Hockey, brother's best friend romance? Yes please. This is my first Rosie P Burke book and it will not be my last! This caught my attention and had me jump in my seat a couple of times! Meet Bitsy. She is 21 and in college, and is going to her brother's hockey game. He is a professional athlete, and was recently traded closer to home, so now she can enjoy rooting for her brother in the stadium. She becomes the team little sister, especially to Hank, her brother's roommate. A few years go by, Bitsy is in a relationship and it's becoming more difficult. Not only because Pierce, her boyfriend is pushing her to be more, but her feelings for Hank are overpowering her train of thought. Hank has those feelings too, but will not act on them, there is a bro code in place, so best friends with the woman who has his heart has to be enough. That is until it isn't. When Bitsy gets in trouble, he is the first in line to help and now their feelings come to surface. How does it end? These two have a lot to deal with. Keeping Bitsy safe is top priority, but love is hard to suppress. What will her brother and the rest of the team say? And what if the danger comes again? This is a fabulous listen! It's just the right amount of romance, spice and suspense. I loved it and can't wait for book 2.
Kamryn Miles does a fabulous job bringing this story alive. She is new to me, keeps the story flowing and easily transitions between male and female voices. I enjoyed her pace and building of romance and suspense. It was an enjoyable performance.
March 22, 2025
If you love romance novels with plenty of chemistry, heart, and a dash of vintage flair, this book is for you! Elizabeth "Bitsy" Thayer is a modern woman with a love for 1950s pin-up style, determined to finish law school while navigating a relationship that doesn’t quite ignite her passion. The real problem? The man who does—her brother’s best friend and hockey teammate, Henry "Hank the Tank" DuBois.
Hank has been secretly pining for Bitsy since the moment they met, but the bro code and his respect for their friendship have kept him firmly in the friend zone. That is, until fate throws them together in an unexpected way, forcing them to confront their feelings and decide if they’re willing to risk it all.
This book has everything—undeniable chemistry, witty banter, emotional depth, and plenty of spice! Hank is the perfect mix of tough athlete and devoted softie, while Bitsy’s independence and charm make her an unforgettable heroine. Their journey from hidden longing to full-blown romance is intense, heartwarming, and oh-so-satisfying.
With well-developed characters, a strong emotional core, and just the right amount of heat, this is the kind of romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night. A must-read for fans of steamy, swoon-worthy love stories! I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. Her expressive delivery and distinct character voices made the listening experience even more enjoyable, drawing me deeper into the story. It was a pleasure to listen to, and I highly recommend the audio version!
Hank has been secretly pining for Bitsy since the moment they met, but the bro code and his respect for their friendship have kept him firmly in the friend zone. That is, until fate throws them together in an unexpected way, forcing them to confront their feelings and decide if they’re willing to risk it all.
This book has everything—undeniable chemistry, witty banter, emotional depth, and plenty of spice! Hank is the perfect mix of tough athlete and devoted softie, while Bitsy’s independence and charm make her an unforgettable heroine. Their journey from hidden longing to full-blown romance is intense, heartwarming, and oh-so-satisfying.
With well-developed characters, a strong emotional core, and just the right amount of heat, this is the kind of romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night. A must-read for fans of steamy, swoon-worthy love stories! I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. Her expressive delivery and distinct character voices made the listening experience even more enjoyable, drawing me deeper into the story. It was a pleasure to listen to, and I highly recommend the audio version!
September 4, 2022
Sometimes timing is not on our side and it makes all the diffirence. Bitsy meets Hank on her 21st birthday, and even though the attraction between these two is palpable they do not act upon it. Hank believes that he needs to give time and space to Bitsy because of their eight years age difference. So he becomes her best friend, supporter and mentor.
Fate though cannot be avoided and when danger lurks in Bitsy's life, Hank quickly realizes that the right moment to claim Bitsy is now. He needs to protect her and the hidden feeilngs that both tried so hard to hide. flare to life. Their relationship starts to blossom and the first date that Hank took Bitsy was pure perfection.
The steamy scenes were hot and I loved the good girl kink.
But the last 10% of the book emotionally wrecked me. Hank reaction though lives rent free in my mind, because that is true love: when yo do everything in your power to help the recovery of your loved ones.
A well deserved HEA and a promising start. I will definitely read book 2 of the series.
Check TW
Fate though cannot be avoided and when danger lurks in Bitsy's life, Hank quickly realizes that the right moment to claim Bitsy is now. He needs to protect her and the hidden feeilngs that both tried so hard to hide. flare to life. Their relationship starts to blossom and the first date that Hank took Bitsy was pure perfection.
The steamy scenes were hot and I loved the good girl kink.
But the last 10% of the book emotionally wrecked me. Hank reaction though lives rent free in my mind, because that is true love: when yo do everything in your power to help the recovery of your loved ones.
A well deserved HEA and a promising start. I will definitely read book 2 of the series.
Check TW
May 14, 2024
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
I love the “brother’s best friend trope” as well as an age gap, and luckily these did not disappoint. Sometimes an age gap can feel unrealistic or the brother’s best friend can be a little forced, but they handled these really well!
Not to give too much away, but Bitsy and Hank were friends before they became lovers. The age gap at 29 and 21 would have worked, but I appreciated that they waited 8 years to act on anything to really develop that friendship and maturity. Bryan’s response to their relationship was great as well. Bravo!
There were TWs addressed right from the beginning. They were handled very delicately. You not only were given a view on how to effects the person, but those around the victim as well.
My only gripe was the narrator. She did a great job with Bitsy, but I wasn’t sold on her performance as Hank. At Hank’s parts I just wasn’t a fan. In my head I imagined a deep, strong voice and this felt forced. Just not a fan.
All in all, I am going to continue the series!
I love the “brother’s best friend trope” as well as an age gap, and luckily these did not disappoint. Sometimes an age gap can feel unrealistic or the brother’s best friend can be a little forced, but they handled these really well!
Not to give too much away, but Bitsy and Hank were friends before they became lovers. The age gap at 29 and 21 would have worked, but I appreciated that they waited 8 years to act on anything to really develop that friendship and maturity. Bryan’s response to their relationship was great as well. Bravo!
There were TWs addressed right from the beginning. They were handled very delicately. You not only were given a view on how to effects the person, but those around the victim as well.
My only gripe was the narrator. She did a great job with Bitsy, but I wasn’t sold on her performance as Hank. At Hank’s parts I just wasn’t a fan. In my head I imagined a deep, strong voice and this felt forced. Just not a fan.
All in all, I am going to continue the series!
December 12, 2023
Hank is Bitsy’s (Elizabeth Thayer) older brother’s best friend. They were drawn to each other. Hank treated her like a kid sister and kept himself in the friend zone. Bitsy assumed he could not feel for her, like she does for him. They have an incredible friendship and rely on each other. Bitsy is a frequent visitor at all their hockey games, to the point she is adopted by the team like a mascot. Bitsy is in her senior year at law school. Her creep of a boyfriend is abusive, and she calls Hank for help. Their friendship is turning into romance. It becomes public knowledge when she wears his jersey to a game. There are some concerns with the close family connection, brothers tend to be protective, plus Hank is her brother’s roommate. This is a sweet story. It is entertaining and well written. I found parts to be humorous. The narration is well done. I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 12, 2025
Bitsy and Henri
I listened to the audio. The narrator did a good job. I enjoyed listening to her tell the story, even the hard parts.
I thought this was sweet, cute, hot, A bit funny and emotional since it does talk about violence between the character. So this had me at hockey and it was set in Chicago I'm a sucker for books set in the town I was born and raised. When they went to the drive-in all I could think about is if it was the one I went to a couple of times. I also thought the time when her brother came home to them in an uncompromised position on the couch. Also the time they visited his brother and his husband. Then the tears towards the end of the book. Henri proving not only what a great supportive friend he was and boyfriend he became.
I listened to the audio. The narrator did a good job. I enjoyed listening to her tell the story, even the hard parts.
I thought this was sweet, cute, hot, A bit funny and emotional since it does talk about violence between the character. So this had me at hockey and it was set in Chicago I'm a sucker for books set in the town I was born and raised. When they went to the drive-in all I could think about is if it was the one I went to a couple of times. I also thought the time when her brother came home to them in an uncompromised position on the couch. Also the time they visited his brother and his husband. Then the tears towards the end of the book. Henri proving not only what a great supportive friend he was and boyfriend he became.
December 16, 2023
I enjoyed the narration of Kamryn Myles
Bitsy and Hank meet on 21st birthday. The attraction and chemistry is instant, but Hank feels that the age difference eight years is to large. So he believes that keeping a distance is a good idea. So he becomes a friend to her.
But fate has other ideas and Bitsy finds her life in danger. It is then Hank realises it now time to step up to protect Bitsy and show his true feeling. Wow when both of them admit how they feel full steam ahead.
Bitsy and Hank meet on 21st birthday. The attraction and chemistry is instant, but Hank feels that the age difference eight years is to large. So he believes that keeping a distance is a good idea. So he becomes a friend to her.
But fate has other ideas and Bitsy finds her life in danger. It is then Hank realises it now time to step up to protect Bitsy and show his true feeling. Wow when both of them admit how they feel full steam ahead.
March 20, 2024
Moving and well written. The author handled the subject matter very well. There were some significant points of narrator editing in audio version to be addressed such as repeated sentences or paragraphs which sadly confused the story. Once addressed the audio book will be as good as the written text.
January 22, 2026
Hockey romance
This is a best friend's sister hockey romance. This book also deals with domestic violence, so it is not for the faint-hearted. The characters, especially Bitsy, are strong. This is a very emotional read. It is a bit spicy, bur generally a good story.
This is a best friend's sister hockey romance. This book also deals with domestic violence, so it is not for the faint-hearted. The characters, especially Bitsy, are strong. This is a very emotional read. It is a bit spicy, bur generally a good story.
December 21, 2023
this is a nice story. it's advertised as an age-gap story, but I don't think an 8 years gap can be considered as an "age-gap" - especially when both parties are in their mid-20s/early 30s.
also, quite from the start the couple gets together, so there's not really a would they-wouldn't they storyline, and the brother is rooting for them with 2 thumbs up.
I don't like it when there's only 1 narrator and 2 POVs.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
also, quite from the start the couple gets together, so there's not really a would they-wouldn't they storyline, and the brother is rooting for them with 2 thumbs up.
I don't like it when there's only 1 narrator and 2 POVs.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2024
Gross H.
February 16, 2025
Yield to trigger warnings and have a box of tissues handy. This is a good story, it has an amazing amount of depth to it as well as spice. I'm also glad for the karma shown to the antagonist.
December 22, 2023
OK, you had me at hockey romance. But there was so much more written into this gem of a book. I will admit, the FMC in the book at first annoyed me, but then I realized that there was so much more to her. Thank you for giving me much more than I anticipated and things I didn't know I needed. I miss the characters already.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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December 2, 2022Lost interest at 52%
Didn’t hate it, but it fell flat and I have a long list of hockey romances to get through.
Didn’t hate it, but it fell flat and I have a long list of hockey romances to get through.
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