Brawler

by Colleen Charles

I never expected my shot at the big dance would lead me straight into the arms of the one woman who’s completely off limits.

As the resident minor-league bad boy of Minnesota, I can’t believe it when I get the call every hockey player dreams of. Dante Giovanetti wants me to replace the legendary Cash Hale on the Venom. But it turns out that it's not the lights of Vegas that blind me—it's Layla, Latham Newberry's sister, and her precious toddler, Violet.

I understand the bro no hitting on a teammate's sister. But the more time I spend with Layla, the harder it is to deny the fire that burns between us. And the very real feelings she sparks inside me.

When her past comes back to haunt her, I know I'll have to step up my game and prove my love is stronger than any rivalry.

Because Violet and Layla need me. And now it’s my job to protect what’s mine.

Genres: Hockey, Sports, Romance, Sports Romance, Hockey Romance, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary

293 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 21, 2023

About the author

After 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:

Reviews

[Anastasia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring af, finished it nevertheless so 2⭐️´s

[Jay · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 55%

Gosh the writing was bad.
Characters were terrible

Layla went from finding Briggs an asshole and juvenile, to thirsting after him, to wanting to date him in less than one day

Briggs went from manwhore, to talking about all the women he's had/visiting strip clubs, to telling Laylas brother (just to annoy him) that he wants to fuck her, to wanting to wife her up in less than one day

These 2 have been around each other for a year. And this all happens now.

The only reason I read so far was to get to the smut as a I saw a review that her dirty talk was good.

Guess what?
......................it wasn't

[Jordyn B · Rating 2 out of 5]

So boring! I was waiting for something… ANYTHING interesting to happen, never did. Save yourself the time if you have a long TBR

[Haley · Rating 1 out of 5]

Honestly, it was boring. Major ick at the beginning and it didn’t get much better. I only finished reading it because I need to meet my reading goal. The characters were so annoying, I wanted to strangle them, then myself for reading this, then them again because they were so aggravating.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re not familiar with the Vegas Venom series by Colleen Charles, you’ve been missing out on a highly entertaining experience. Even though “Brawler” is the seventh book in the series, it can be read as a standalone story. Be warned though, you’ll want to go back and read the stories of the other players on the team!

Layla is the devoted mother of a two-year-old daughter, Violet, the result of an ill-advised relationship with a playboy hockey player. In fact, it was worth the terrible experience of that “relationship” because Violet is her world. Fortunately, Layla’s own professional hockey player brother has been wonderful – supportive and protective of her and her little girl. Aside from her brother, and his teammates, Layla wants nothing to do with professional athletes anymore. Then a year or so ago he got a new teammate that Layla is wildly attracted to and can’t help but be intrigued by. Briggs is new to the NHL and grateful to be playing for the Vegas Venom. He’s brought with him to the professional leagues his impressive skill set and a reputation as a playboy. Clearly, he’s exactly the type of guy Layla has sworn to avoid like the plague. Except he’s not just hot, he’s unexpectedly kind. Thoughtful. Sweet. Great with dogs. Wonderful with kids. And when she’s around him she can be her genuine self – he brings out the best in her and appreciate her for all that she is. Briggs is a family man at heart who comes from a very big family of his own. He recognized from the first time he met her that Layla is someone special, and so is her child. Knowing Layla and Violet has made him change his goals in life, and he wants them in as much as he does hockey.

This heartwarming story is also funny and thought-provoking. Both main characters grow and change because of one another. I particularly liked the strength Layla showed, and how the unexpected depths of Briggs’ character were revealed. Their connection feels genuine. There are plenty of excellent secondary characters, most of whom have appeared in other stories in this series, so if you’ve read those other books, it’s even more entertaining to see them again.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.

[Elyvia (eliv_bookstagram) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏒Hockey Romance
👩‍👧Single Mom
🕺Reformed Playboy
👨‍👩‍👧Found Family

Layla is a single mom of a 2-year-old Violet, the dad is a playboy hockey player who doesn’t want to have anything to do with them. She is now living with her brother, Latham, a famous hockey player who is happily married with a son. When there’s a new player in her brother’s team, Briggs, she can’t help but be drawn to him, despite his playboy reputation. Latham who has been trying to match his sister, was against the idea of them dating. Briggs, who initially just flirted with Layla to piss off Latham ended up falling for Layla and Violet, Layla on the other hand still hurt by her ex and only looking for a hookup….

This is the 7th book of the Vegas Venom Series by Colleen Charles, I haven’t read any of the previous books, so this can be read as a stand-alone. I surprisingly love this book, I think this is my first single-mom romance book, I usually go for single-dad romance. There’s an instant attraction between them, but they both didn’t jump into it straight away, so it is a bit of a slow-burn. Briggs was a playboy and only dates casually, but he is not an asshole, so he did take his time before he decided to date Layla, because he knows it’s not gonna be just a fling, especially with Violet in the picture. Layla who was dumped viciously by her baby’s daddy didn’t want to repeat the same mistake by dating another playboy, so he was only interested in hooking up with Briggs. But she soon learns that Briggs is not what she thinks he is, he’s sweet, great with kids, and loves his big family.

I love that Layla is so bold and unashamedly horny, in fact, she was the one who do the dirty talking in bed, and I love it! She put Briggs who was supposed to be the playboy to shame, and he let her take control. Briggs is so good with children, so heartwarming to see his relationship with Violet and another teammate’s baby. I definitely would like to check out more books from this author, highly recommend it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

https://livthespoilerslovers.blogspot...

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in the Vegas Venom series featuring Briggs and Layla's wonderful off-limits, single mother, teammates sister romance. We met Briggs in previous books and now we get his story and we get to learn more about him like how he came from a big family and was caretaker to his siblings. Layla dreamed of having her HEA so when she went to her boyfriends house to tell him her good news he refuses to invite her in he doesn't want to hear what she has to say and he tells her to go and don't come back again ever. Two years later Layla lives in a cottage with her baby daughter Violet on her brother's property since he would do anything for his sister. Latham plays hockey for the Venom and Briggs is one of his teammates who always shows up at his parties. That's where Layla and Briggs first met each other and as they spend time together the sparks really fly. As they continue to be around each other they start getting to know each other better much to Latham's dismay and he's wonderful with Violet. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this wonderful off-limits, single mother, teammates sister romance to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this fantastic series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Colleen Charles’ Vegas Venom series and have enjoyed all of them, but I think this one is my favorite. Briggs’ did not make a good first impression in any of his appearances in the previous books, if I’m honest he gave off an huge ick factor. But oh my did the real man under that uncouth jerk surprise and wow.

Layla has been focused on being the best mom to her nearly 2-year old daughter Violet and she’s been celibate since finding her self pregnant and discarded by her baby daddy. She get caught drooling over sexy Briggs, much to her brother Latham’s dismay and disgust. Briggs has been working hard to get under Latham’s skin so the visible attraction between Layla and Briggs causes an outcry among the Venom players and they r significant others.

Seeing Briggs step up and really make an effort at dating Layla and being the best version of himself was awesome. What was unbelievable was his ovary-bursting display of being great with kids. He snuggled his teammates babies, soothing away tears and non-stop crying, and his demonstration of living Violet was especially sweet.

This was a great romance and had so many great scenes with the extended Venom family! Loved every moment of this entertaining reading experience.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melissa Star · Rating 3 out of 5]

To be frank, I kept scrolling through booktok on my fyp feed and this book kept popping up. I didn't realize it was part of a series involving a Hockey team from Vegas until I purchased it on my Kindle. I was glad this story could be read as a standalone but I might just give the series a try after reading Briggs and Layla's story. For those who don't know, the Hockey team from Vegas called Venom has a new commer to its roster and he is set to replace one of its well-known players. Briggs Sawyer is known to be a playboy but when he meets Latham Newberry's sister, he can't help but find a way to get closer to her. He knows for a fact that his teammate's sister is off limits but he can't help but be drawn to her. Layla Newberry on the other hand is a single mother who has been burned by a bad boy/hockey player but she can't help catching her eye on Briggs. It has been two years since she has been close to anyone and with her past being what is, Layla can't help but be unsure of her "what ifs". I loved the concept of single parents and how smooth the transition was from attraction to love between Briggs and Layla. Lastly, I loved all of the banter between each character, I could not stop laughing at certain parts of the book. I would give this book 3.5 stars and I look forward to reading all about the Venom team.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vegas Venom Book 7

Layla Newberry had dreamed of having happiness and having it all. When she shows up to her boyfriend's place to give him some news he won't invite her, won't hear what she has to say and tells her to leave and never come back.

Two years have passed. Layla and her almost 2 yr old daughter, Violet live in a cottage on her brother's property. Her brother is an NHL player for the Venom and would do anything for his sister.

Briggs Sawyer is thrilled when he gets the call to move up to the big league. He's to replace the legend Cash Hale on the Venom team but not everyone is happy about that.

When he shows up to a party at his teammate, Latham Newberry's house, Latham isn't happy. Briggs taunts him about his sister and how she likes him.

Briggs and Layla end up spending time together and the sparks fly and feelings get involved. Even Violet and Briggs get along and he really cares for her. Just when things are getting really serious Layla's past shows up.
Will this change what they have?

4.5 stars
Loved Briggs! He's so sweet with Violet. Also love seeing the Venom gang together.

[Anna M_82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Brawler” is a single mom, hockey star romance between Briggs and his teammate’s sister Layla. I wasn’t sure if I would like Briggs but I knew I had to give him a chance. He starts off as a player in previous books with a habit of running off at the mouth. Now that he has a book of his own, we get to see the layers, and see his truly at his heart. He’s more than a player, more than an arrogant attitude, more than I ever expected. His heart is truly beautiful, and the way he proves himself over and over to not only Layla but her daughter Violet as well. I knew Colleen Charles wouldn’t let me down and would make me love him, and she 100% succeeded in that!! Briggs is AMAZING and totally deserves his HEA!

Layla is absolutely fantastic as well! A devoted single mom with one major jerk of an ex. She’s doing it all and absolutely rocking it! She sees Briggs as a possible hookup at first, but as the layers are revealed, she realizes he could be so much more. These two had some incredible scenes together! I loved their first “date” at a speed dating event with a twist. That was a fun scene! I adored their first kiss!! The anticipation of it, the sweetness of how he treated her, the fire that builds between them. There will be drama but nothing with OW, only drama with her ex. I enjoyed how this was written and handled though. Just made me love Briggs more. Everything about this romance was beautifully written: the character, the hockey games, the spice, and especially the extremely wonderful ending!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unexpected pregnancy allowed Layla to realize that her boyfriend was not the man she thought he was and she has devoted the last two years to being the best mother she can to her daughter Violet. She hasn’t let another man in her life but there is something about Briggs, her brother’s new teammate, that draw her in.

Briggs doesn’t make a good impression on the members of the Vegas Venom and especially Latham with the attention he is giving Layla as they believe he is only looking for a good time however the more time he spends with them the more he realizes he can’t imagine a future without both of them in it.

Layla knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it while when it comes to Briggs appearances can be deceiving and he shows that he might just be exactly who Layla and Violet need.

[J Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy. Briggs Sawyer has finally been called up to the NHL for Vegas Venom. He is not well received by his teammates because of some past behavior. He ends up going to Latham 's party where he sees Layla again. Layla and Briggs sort of know each other but have not really gotten to know each other. As they spend more time together they get to know one another and have this connection much to Latham's dismay.

Briggs is so supportive and caring for Layla and Violet so much so that they are his. Briggs and Layla are perfect for each other because they understand each other. I loved how Briggs stepped up for Layla when the ex tried to step back into the picture. Overall, another Vegas Venom hit.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Brawler by Colleen Charles. Its book 7 in the Vegas Venom Series and while you can read on its own the previous couples are heavily featured in Briggs and Layla's story. Layla thought she was on the path to happiness until she tells her boyfriend, a pro hockey player about her pregnancy. He instead tells her she is nothing to him and to never contact him again. Layla is determined to raise her child and to never again fall for another bad boy, self absorbed hockey player. Of course she doesn't expect to fall for Briggs, man whore hockey player on her brother's NHL team. Briggs was the ultimate sexy book boyfriend. He quickly fell for Layla and her adorable daughter Violet and after that he completely changed. He wanted a life with them but can he convince Layla and her protective brother, his teammate that he wants forever? 5 stars.

[Lisa]

I love how Briggs changes. In Ranger's book he was all jerk. He has a strong personality and he likes to pick on Layla's brother, his teammate, to the point that he wants to come to blows because he feels Latham is holding a grudge and causing the rest of the team to hold back. I Layla's book he grows up before our eyes. He shows his true colors, baby whisperer and all. He is so sweet and swoon worthy during those scenes. I love how strong Layka is. She is a good mom. She wants to be a responsible adult who contributes to society. She is sad about being alone. She know what she wants. I love that she is strong enough to hold out and go for it. This is a great story. I love it. Violet is a sweetie. I love revisiting the team and their ladies.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brawler is an excellent single mom, off limits romance where the newest member of the Venom is crazy about the sister of a teammate.Briggs is an absolute charmer in this book, from adopting a dog to creating a whole themed room for a two-year-old so she feels comfortable at his house, he absolutely kills it as a guy trying to prove he's all in. Layla is so easy to relate to as a single mom whose entire world is her little girl, to the point where she's lost herself and clings to that fear of being hurt again. As usual the whole rest of the team, including her brother, have plenty to say about the relationship and keep the laughs coming through the whole book. Another completely enjoyable, funny, and heart melting book from Collen Charles.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I loved Briggs and Layla’s story! Briggs started out to taunt his teammate Latham by flirting with his sister Layla, but it turned into so much more. The more time they spent together their feelings for each other grew. Layla was the best thing that could have happened to Briggs. It didn’t please Latham, but he would just have to get used to them being together! I loved Briggs and Layla together and with Laylas daughter Violet they make the perfect family. When Layla’s past shows up will their relationship survive? I loved Briggs and seeing the whole Vegas Venom gang! Brawler is a fantastic addition to the Vegas Venom series!

[Jill Kerich · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’ve met Briggs in earlier Venom books and he hasn’t exactly been someone I really liked. What we learned in Brawler is that there is so much more to Briggs than the smart mouth and player vibes. Layla Newberry is the sister of Venom player Latham and lives with her daughter in Latham’s guest house.
These two have met a many Venom parties and get together a but have been orbiting around each other. Even so, they are drawn to each other and soon find themselves getting to know each other better (much to the dismay of big brother, Latham!)
As we get to know Briggs, we learn that he comes from a large family and has always been a caretaker to you get siblings. This explains the ease he has with young Violet and is one of the things Layla finds attractive about him.
Minor angst in this book and it is dealt with quickly and with maturity.
The Venom family is so fun and I love how they all care so deeply for each other. Looking forward to the next book to see how Oliver handles a special lady!!

[Melinda Swaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a top read of 2023!!

Ms Charles proves, once again, that she is the Queen of Hockey Romance!! I love how she makes these characters so real that I can relate to all of them. These two where so made for each other. Loved their story and could not put it down from start to finish. It has the perfect mix of laughter, sports , sweet and spicy moments. Briggs and Layla were made for each other! And I absolutely loved Violet. My absolute favourite so far in this series and it’s going on my re-read list too. Definitely a top read of 2023!! I can guarantee that you will love this ebook as much as I do. Happy reading

[Renee Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and I adore this book! Colleen Charles has done it again! Briggs is everything! A gorgeous, tough, but vulnerable, hockey player who has fallen in love with Layla, the beautiful, smart, single mom, and little sister of a teammate. Brilliant writing brings out all the emotions - excitement, sadness, love, desire, and hope. This is so much more than a romantic hockey story. It’s about self-discovery, family, team, a brotherhood, and a little girl who will capture your heart. It’s just excellent!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vivi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 ⭐

Honestly I do really like single parent romance, men being good with kids is honestly hot- not specifically because I want a child and want someone to raise the child with me, it's just hot in general, I had pretty low expectations because the MMC was not a good person in the previous book. But he had character development, so it's fine however the character development was so unbelievable, in my opinion it wasn't realistic. And the book ended up being pretty boring, like yes good for y'all that there wasn't much that happened in your relationship, but it got boring to read about and Violet/Dog Cash ended up being what got me through it

[Alexis Zimmerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Brawler by Colleen Charles is another success in the Vegas Venom series! The whole story was well-paced and it was fun to see the gradual character development. Briggs is adorable and I really liked how he interacted with the other characters. It would have been easy to portray him as a simple "bad boy" with no depth, but he has reasons for his behavior and a character evolution. I would definitely recommend this to any sports romance readers!

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a really wonderful read. Filled with humor, heart, sweetness, spice, drama, swoon and heartstring tugging, this book will have you basking in the feels and romance as your heart simply melts. Layla is a character that I think so many readers will strongly relate to and connect deeply with. If you are anything like me, you might start out on the fence about Briggs but "Fear not!" because it does not take long to realize that this guy with a body like a God also has a heart that is pure gold.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brawler is Briggs’ story of the Vegas Venom hockey team. I just have to say that Briggs is my favorite of all the hockey players. First of all, the name Briggs, it’s his first name and it automatically caught my attention with its uniqueness. But his personality completely won me over! He will be hard to beat in future books (just saying 😜). Briggs has an unfavorable reputation with his teammates but single mom Layla turns his world upside down and the transformation begins. The real Briggs makes my heart melt. Must add this to your TBR list!

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms Charles proves, once again, that she is the Queen of Hockey Romance!! I love how she makes these characters so real that I can relate to all of them. These two where so made for each other. Loved their story and could not put it down from start to finish. It has the perfect mix of laughter, sports , sweet and spicy moments. Briggs and Layla were made for each other! And I absolutely loved Violet. My absolute favourite so far in this series and it’s going on my re-read list too. Definitely a top read of 2023!! I can guarantee that you will love this ebook as much as I do. Happy reading

[Didi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book.
Briggs,known for his playboy ways, is called up to join the Vegas Venom. Layla and her daughter live with her brother and his teammate, Latham. What starts out as a way to antagonize his teammate turns into so much more. Colleen leads us to fall for Briggs as she reveals his true layers. Such a beautiful story with humor, heat, charm, hot passion, a baby whisperer, hockey, a bit of drama, the Venom family, sweetness, and so much heart.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun and sweet read about an a single mother and a new member of the team. This is book seven in the "Vegas Venom" series but can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone one. It of course has connected characters. This is the story of Briggs and Layla. He is new to the team when he meets her. They hit it off but her brother is one of his team mates. She has also sworn off relationships with professional athletes. These two are combustible and perfect for each other. I love these two characters and how they story develops.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Briggs is a player and does not know when to keep his mouth shut. He finally gets called up from the minor leagues, one of the first things he notices is Layla. Layla is Latham sister (Grinder) who is a single mom that see him as a hook up. Being she is a teammate's sister, Briggs tries to uphold the bro code but the more time he spends with Layla, the hard that becomes.

This is a great addition to the others in the Vegas Venom series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suze82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

cute
What´s more cute than a bad boy falling for a toddler and her mom? I really don´t understand the hype about bro codes: where else are you supposed to meet somebody who shares your interests if not in your circle of friends or your work environment? Of course, an awkward situation can arise if the relationship fails, but what if it leads to a HEA? I enjoyed how the couple fought for a happy family.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel had all the things I look for in a sports romance: muscles, conflict, precious pooches, hilarious “flower girls”, spicy times and a single mom is a bonus! I loved the romance between Briggs and Layla. Briggs really shows his true colors while interacting with Violet and the new “Cash” is so sweet for Violet! I loved the parts where Briggs interacts with babies…talk about mind melts and ovaries crying😂