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Play by Play #7
Melting the Ice
Body Check
Everything’s coming together for budding fashion designer Carolina Preston. Only months away from having her own line, she could use some publicity. That’s when her brother suggests his best friend as a model - hockey player Drew Hogan.
Carolina and Drew already have a history - a hot one, back in college. Unforgettable for Carolina, but for Drew, just another slap shot. This time, though, it’s different. His perfect body would be for professional use only. This time, she could use him.
Drew is all for it. He’s looking forward to the exposure. Plus, it would give him a chance to prove to Carolina that he’s changed. If only he could thaw her emotions, convince her to let down her guard and let him in just one more time...
255 pages, ebook
First published February 4, 2014
247 people are currently reading
7309 people want to read
About the author
Jaci Burton
153 books8,293 followersJaci Burton is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over 85 books. She lives in Oklahoma and when she isn’t on deadline (which is often), she can usually be found wrestling with her uncooperative garden, wrangling her dogs, watching an unhealthy amount of television, or completely losing track of time reading a great book. She’s a total romantic and longs for the happily ever after in every story, which you’ll find in all her books.. Visit her website at www.jaciburton.com for excerpts, book information and contests.
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February 20, 2013Oh my God!!!! Another book in the Play by Play series! Hell to the yes!
March 13, 2014
Drew and Carolina have a history and it isn't a pleasant one, at least not for Carolina. Drew has changed though...now he just needs to prove that to Carolina.
One of my complaints about this series is that the newer books didn't quite have that family feel that the earlier ones did involving The Rileys. Well, I'm happy to say that the family feel is back...not only with The Prestons but with all the college roommates. It's really started coming together.
Drew is a real sweetie and he has changed. Now he just has to prove that to Carolina. I love how he didn't give up and sometimes it was even funny how much he pushed Carolina.
Carolina was easy to like and my heart went out to her. It's not hard to feel a kinship to her if you've ever had your heart broken. I got a kick out of how even when her life was crazy, she still was the well mannered woman her mother raised her to be.
These two are pretty steamy and there are plenty of scenes to appease you especially the one on the ice. Pheww...JB did the same thing to me with Taking A Shot. Who knew such hot scenes could occur in such cold places? ;)
I did like how Carolina and Drew's "relationship" was drawn out even though they were having sexy times. I think not only did Drew have to prove himself but he had to give Carolina time to come to terms with things.
Of course, there's drama and I didn't like it at all! I didn't want to be disappointed but there it was. Drew's pretty lucky that Carolina was so forgiving.
I loved getting more of Gray and Evelyn in this one. There are some interesting developments for them and I love where it's going. I also love the relationships between Gray and Carolina and Carolina and Evelyn.
There's also more story about Bill (heart breaking) and a bit of Trevor and Haven who will be in the next book, Straddling the Line. It was good but definitely left me wanting more.
Recommendation:
If you're looking for something sweet and sexy that involves a sport theme and close knit family, I'd definitely recommend this series.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Yeah, I screwed up big-time that night, and the day after. I could give you a lifetime of I’m sorry’s, but that can’t change what happened or the fact I treated you like shit afterward. But I’ll still say it, as many times as you need to hear it—I’m sorry, Carolina.”
♥ “I suppose the first thing I need to do is measure you.”
“No, not that. Already seen it.”
“Yeah, but one, you haven’t seen it in a very long time. And two, have you ever measured it?”
♥ “Because I also know how close you and Drew have always been. My relationship with him will affect your relationship with him. And it shouldn’t.”
“You can’t change that. He’s been one of my best friends for a lot of years. But you will always and forever be my sister. Family. Nothing trumps that bond. Not even friendship.”
♥ “I miss you when you’re not with me. I think about you all the time. I want to sleep with you next to me at night, wake up with you snuggled up against me in the morning.”
One of my complaints about this series is that the newer books didn't quite have that family feel that the earlier ones did involving The Rileys. Well, I'm happy to say that the family feel is back...not only with The Prestons but with all the college roommates. It's really started coming together.
Drew is a real sweetie and he has changed. Now he just has to prove that to Carolina. I love how he didn't give up and sometimes it was even funny how much he pushed Carolina.
Carolina was easy to like and my heart went out to her. It's not hard to feel a kinship to her if you've ever had your heart broken. I got a kick out of how even when her life was crazy, she still was the well mannered woman her mother raised her to be.
These two are pretty steamy and there are plenty of scenes to appease you especially the one on the ice. Pheww...JB did the same thing to me with Taking A Shot. Who knew such hot scenes could occur in such cold places? ;)
I did like how Carolina and Drew's "relationship" was drawn out even though they were having sexy times. I think not only did Drew have to prove himself but he had to give Carolina time to come to terms with things.
Of course, there's drama and I didn't like it at all! I didn't want to be disappointed but there it was. Drew's pretty lucky that Carolina was so forgiving.
I loved getting more of Gray and Evelyn in this one. There are some interesting developments for them and I love where it's going. I also love the relationships between Gray and Carolina and Carolina and Evelyn.
There's also more story about Bill (heart breaking) and a bit of Trevor and Haven who will be in the next book, Straddling the Line. It was good but definitely left me wanting more.
Recommendation:
If you're looking for something sweet and sexy that involves a sport theme and close knit family, I'd definitely recommend this series.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Yeah, I screwed up big-time that night, and the day after. I could give you a lifetime of I’m sorry’s, but that can’t change what happened or the fact I treated you like shit afterward. But I’ll still say it, as many times as you need to hear it—I’m sorry, Carolina.”
♥ “I suppose the first thing I need to do is measure you.”
“No, not that. Already seen it.”
“Yeah, but one, you haven’t seen it in a very long time. And two, have you ever measured it?”
♥ “Because I also know how close you and Drew have always been. My relationship with him will affect your relationship with him. And it shouldn’t.”
“You can’t change that. He’s been one of my best friends for a lot of years. But you will always and forever be my sister. Family. Nothing trumps that bond. Not even friendship.”
♥ “I miss you when you’re not with me. I think about you all the time. I want to sleep with you next to me at night, wake up with you snuggled up against me in the morning.”
February 26, 2017
3.5 Stars
Drew and Carolina had a one night stand in college and it’s something they both look on with regret. Drew because he acted like an ass to Carolina and Carolina because she allowed herself to fall for Drew who didn’t return the same intense feelings she had.
Fast forward to present, eight years later, Carolina is about to launch her own fashion line and needs male models. Her brother Gray agrees and being a race car driver he’s sure to attract attention, but he suggests Drew his best friend and unknown to him, Carolina’s one-night stand gone bad. But Drew has the potential to bring a lot of attention to her line, because he’s a famous hockey player so Carolina decides to put aside her feelings and bring him on. Carolina resolves to keep things professional and forget hurt she has, but Drew would love a chance to show her he’s not a jerk. He’s never forgotten Carolina or their intense night, even if they got together when he was too immature to appreciate her.
At first Carolina is hesitant about letting Drew back into her life, but soon the intense desire she once had for him comes back with a vengeance and Drew is definitely persistent. Yet, they’re both at a time in their lives where their careers take priority and a huge chunk of their time so something serious doesn’t enter their minds. I like the fact that they each understood the high demands of their jobs, and didn’t fault the other for being so busy, they both got it. But because their attachment grows they carve more and more time out for each other, and their feelings are definitely moving into the serious category.
I love a second chance romance, but I do feel this story was lacking the angsty, intense longing feelings that I get when reading about a love opportunity missed or one gone wrong. I think if I would’ve got a little more of their history I might have felt differently. Their history was touched on a little in One Sweet Ride, so maybe this is where I missed out by not reading the previous story. Apparently it centered on Gray, Carolina’s brother, and the fact that Drew and Carolina had an awkward meet up in that book was talked about here.
Still, their romance was satisfying and oh, boy was it ever HOT! Wow, I’ve read a couple of Jaci Burton’s books (the Hope series) and this was the hottest one yet! Drew had no problem whatsoever vocalizing what he wanted! Whoa!
Carolina and Drew manage to get over a few bumps and this story leaves them in a good place together. I have a feeling they’ll show up in the next book and we’ll get to see more of a HEA for them as secondary characters. I didn’t read the previous book, Gray and Evelyn’s story, but they are featured quite a lot here and there were a couple of momentous events for them that brought a smile to my face even if I didn’t read their story.
Jaci Burton wrote a romance that will warm your heart and curl your toes! I plan on reading the next in the series: Trevor and Haven’s story in Straddling the Line which is set to come out in July.
A copy was provided by Penguin Group in exchange for an honest review.
Drew and Carolina had a one night stand in college and it’s something they both look on with regret. Drew because he acted like an ass to Carolina and Carolina because she allowed herself to fall for Drew who didn’t return the same intense feelings she had.
Fast forward to present, eight years later, Carolina is about to launch her own fashion line and needs male models. Her brother Gray agrees and being a race car driver he’s sure to attract attention, but he suggests Drew his best friend and unknown to him, Carolina’s one-night stand gone bad. But Drew has the potential to bring a lot of attention to her line, because he’s a famous hockey player so Carolina decides to put aside her feelings and bring him on. Carolina resolves to keep things professional and forget hurt she has, but Drew would love a chance to show her he’s not a jerk. He’s never forgotten Carolina or their intense night, even if they got together when he was too immature to appreciate her.
At first Carolina is hesitant about letting Drew back into her life, but soon the intense desire she once had for him comes back with a vengeance and Drew is definitely persistent. Yet, they’re both at a time in their lives where their careers take priority and a huge chunk of their time so something serious doesn’t enter their minds. I like the fact that they each understood the high demands of their jobs, and didn’t fault the other for being so busy, they both got it. But because their attachment grows they carve more and more time out for each other, and their feelings are definitely moving into the serious category.
I love a second chance romance, but I do feel this story was lacking the angsty, intense longing feelings that I get when reading about a love opportunity missed or one gone wrong. I think if I would’ve got a little more of their history I might have felt differently. Their history was touched on a little in One Sweet Ride, so maybe this is where I missed out by not reading the previous story. Apparently it centered on Gray, Carolina’s brother, and the fact that Drew and Carolina had an awkward meet up in that book was talked about here.
Still, their romance was satisfying and oh, boy was it ever HOT! Wow, I’ve read a couple of Jaci Burton’s books (the Hope series) and this was the hottest one yet! Drew had no problem whatsoever vocalizing what he wanted! Whoa!
Carolina and Drew manage to get over a few bumps and this story leaves them in a good place together. I have a feeling they’ll show up in the next book and we’ll get to see more of a HEA for them as secondary characters. I didn’t read the previous book, Gray and Evelyn’s story, but they are featured quite a lot here and there were a couple of momentous events for them that brought a smile to my face even if I didn’t read their story.
Jaci Burton wrote a romance that will warm your heart and curl your toes! I plan on reading the next in the series: Trevor and Haven’s story in Straddling the Line which is set to come out in July.
A copy was provided by Penguin Group in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2014
DNF at 75% :(
I just can continue wasting my time. It's not working for me at all. The first part was just cliche and superficial - girl has a crush on big brother's best friend and after losing his virginity to him in college, he just walks away. They meet years later and start a relationship. There was some going back and forth between being just friends or friends with benefits or even something more. Things quickly moved to a series of sex escapades - in the pool, on the porch, on the ice ring, in the locker room ...
I didn't really believe in the chemistry between the characters. The subplots and secondary characters also left me unmoved.
I am a fan of sports romances and generally they work well for me but this time everything felt off. The romance was unconvincing, the plot was boring and predictable, even the sex scenes were too repetitive and sounded mechanical, lacking emotion.
This book could be a good read for fans of sports romances, it just didn't work for me.
I just can continue wasting my time. It's not working for me at all. The first part was just cliche and superficial - girl has a crush on big brother's best friend and after losing his virginity to him in college, he just walks away. They meet years later and start a relationship. There was some going back and forth between being just friends or friends with benefits or even something more. Things quickly moved to a series of sex escapades - in the pool, on the porch, on the ice ring, in the locker room ...
I didn't really believe in the chemistry between the characters. The subplots and secondary characters also left me unmoved.
I am a fan of sports romances and generally they work well for me but this time everything felt off. The romance was unconvincing, the plot was boring and predictable, even the sex scenes were too repetitive and sounded mechanical, lacking emotion.
This book could be a good read for fans of sports romances, it just didn't work for me.
February 6, 2014
Another great, sexy read from one of my favorite series...
Drew Hogan's a star hockey player for the fictional New York Travelers (kind of a weird name for a team but whatever...). Carolina Prescott is the daughter of the VP of the USA, fashion designer with her own company and ready to take on her first fashion show in February. Drew and Carolina share a past--he's her brother Gray's best friend (One Sweet Ride) and the former object of her teenage fantasies. Those fantasies finally came true one semi-drunken night in college when Drew finally gave virginal "Lina" what she wanted--a sexy night between the sheets.
Drew...
Lina wanted so much more from Drew, but Drew got spooked by his feelings for Lina and the timing was all wrong, so he disappeared from her bed and her life. Lina's held a sort of grudge against him for the past eight years, but with her first showing coming up, she needs some models for her show. Brother Gray is in, and suggests Carolina ask Drew. Carolina realizes the appeal and attention a famous, studly NYC hockey player would bring to her fashions, and after all, business is business, so she reluctantly agrees. Drew is eager to help, and right the wrong he knows he did to Lina all those years ago. And by God, he still feels the attraction when he sees an all grown up Lina. But Lina wants to keep it all business...but can she? Can Drew win her over and earn her forgiveness? Is Drew finally ready to settle down with one woman and can Lina be "the one"? Or is the timing all wrong for them again? Will Lina's fledgling business and Drew's hockey season get in the way of their happiness? Can Drew melt the ice around Lina's heart?
Jaci Burton shows no sign of slowing down with this series. Drew and Carolina are a sexy, interesting couple with a friendly past that ended in heartbreak for Lina. I did think she started out as a little uptight and thought she held onto this grudge for a bit long. Eight long years and she's still thinking about it? After all, she threw herself at this guy and he never made her any promises, and they were both young and stupid. Yes, he did owe her an apology but she needed to move on. That was my initial impression of Lina, but as the book progressed she really grew on me and I ended up liking her.
Drew modeled some undies for the print campaign...
I liked Drew from the get go. He was funny, charming, and sexy, and apologetic to Lina. And he wanted to win her over, so I was on board with that. This couple had some strong sexual chemistry, but both were in denial that this was an actual "relationship" since neither really experienced a real relationship. I loved how it progressed, step-by-step. I loved that they had a friendly background, and once Lina was able to forgive Drew, I loved watching those sparks fly! I loved how Drew took time out from his own schedule to make sure the work-a-holic Lina had some fun in her life. I loved how they gradually fell in love.
About that sexual chemistry...yowza! They sure made up for some lost time. There was one scene, where Lina was taking some photos of Drew in his underwear (that she designed) for a print campaign--this took place at Madison Square Garden. And OMG did things get out of control (*blush*) in front of the net...and in the locker room. And nobody saw this? Hard to believe there were no witnesses...
Drew plays home games at Madison Square Garden...
...and something very naughty happened in front of the goalie net...
If I had one complaint about the book, it was regarding some hockey issues. So maybe JB isn't a hockey fan, but there's such a thing as research. And maybe the Travelers don't even play in the NHL...but the hockey season does not start after Thanksgiving--unless there was some sort of strike or lockout? And the Travelers were playing preseason games in November. (Preseason starts in September, and the season starts in October, not December). A minor quibble, I know, but that kind of took me out of the story and disappointed me at the same time. It took me a while to get over it, and I tried to ignore it since I liked other aspects of the book. But if you're going to write a sports themed book, this sports fan wants you to get all the details correct.
To sum up: an easy, sexy read, with some naughty times, a sexy hero who mostly makes all the right moves in wooing the heroine, and a decent storyline/romance that made you want to turn the pages. Gray and Evelyn (One Sweet Ride) are back (with some exciting news), and we meet Drew's friend Trevor, who's quite the 'player' and destined for his own book next (Straddling the Line. Fans of this series will not be disappointed. 4 1/2 stars
Drew Hogan's a star hockey player for the fictional New York Travelers (kind of a weird name for a team but whatever...). Carolina Prescott is the daughter of the VP of the USA, fashion designer with her own company and ready to take on her first fashion show in February. Drew and Carolina share a past--he's her brother Gray's best friend (One Sweet Ride) and the former object of her teenage fantasies. Those fantasies finally came true one semi-drunken night in college when Drew finally gave virginal "Lina" what she wanted--a sexy night between the sheets.
Drew...
Lina wanted so much more from Drew, but Drew got spooked by his feelings for Lina and the timing was all wrong, so he disappeared from her bed and her life. Lina's held a sort of grudge against him for the past eight years, but with her first showing coming up, she needs some models for her show. Brother Gray is in, and suggests Carolina ask Drew. Carolina realizes the appeal and attention a famous, studly NYC hockey player would bring to her fashions, and after all, business is business, so she reluctantly agrees. Drew is eager to help, and right the wrong he knows he did to Lina all those years ago. And by God, he still feels the attraction when he sees an all grown up Lina. But Lina wants to keep it all business...but can she? Can Drew win her over and earn her forgiveness? Is Drew finally ready to settle down with one woman and can Lina be "the one"? Or is the timing all wrong for them again? Will Lina's fledgling business and Drew's hockey season get in the way of their happiness? Can Drew melt the ice around Lina's heart?
Jaci Burton shows no sign of slowing down with this series. Drew and Carolina are a sexy, interesting couple with a friendly past that ended in heartbreak for Lina. I did think she started out as a little uptight and thought she held onto this grudge for a bit long. Eight long years and she's still thinking about it? After all, she threw herself at this guy and he never made her any promises, and they were both young and stupid. Yes, he did owe her an apology but she needed to move on. That was my initial impression of Lina, but as the book progressed she really grew on me and I ended up liking her.
Drew modeled some undies for the print campaign...
I liked Drew from the get go. He was funny, charming, and sexy, and apologetic to Lina. And he wanted to win her over, so I was on board with that. This couple had some strong sexual chemistry, but both were in denial that this was an actual "relationship" since neither really experienced a real relationship. I loved how it progressed, step-by-step. I loved that they had a friendly background, and once Lina was able to forgive Drew, I loved watching those sparks fly! I loved how Drew took time out from his own schedule to make sure the work-a-holic Lina had some fun in her life. I loved how they gradually fell in love.
About that sexual chemistry...yowza! They sure made up for some lost time. There was one scene, where Lina was taking some photos of Drew in his underwear (that she designed) for a print campaign--this took place at Madison Square Garden. And OMG did things get out of control (*blush*) in front of the net...and in the locker room. And nobody saw this? Hard to believe there were no witnesses...
Drew plays home games at Madison Square Garden...
...and something very naughty happened in front of the goalie net...
If I had one complaint about the book, it was regarding some hockey issues. So maybe JB isn't a hockey fan, but there's such a thing as research. And maybe the Travelers don't even play in the NHL...but the hockey season does not start after Thanksgiving--unless there was some sort of strike or lockout? And the Travelers were playing preseason games in November. (Preseason starts in September, and the season starts in October, not December). A minor quibble, I know, but that kind of took me out of the story and disappointed me at the same time. It took me a while to get over it, and I tried to ignore it since I liked other aspects of the book. But if you're going to write a sports themed book, this sports fan wants you to get all the details correct.
To sum up: an easy, sexy read, with some naughty times, a sexy hero who mostly makes all the right moves in wooing the heroine, and a decent storyline/romance that made you want to turn the pages. Gray and Evelyn (One Sweet Ride) are back (with some exciting news), and we meet Drew's friend Trevor, who's quite the 'player' and destined for his own book next (Straddling the Line. Fans of this series will not be disappointed. 4 1/2 stars
August 10, 2016
Melting the Ice is the latest in Jaci Burtons Play by Play series, one of my favourite series.
I had counted down for this release, couldn’t wait for Drew and Carolina’s story. And oh god it was fantastic!!! I am a sucker for brothers best friend/best friends sister stories. And this just ticked all the boxes!! I loved it.
They have a past which brings up bad/embarrassed feelings for each. Drew apologises and Carolina starts to realise he is genuine in his apology. Now years later Drew is helping Carolina out for her upcoming line for Fashion Week. They both live in New York and start spending time together. Which of course leads to sex, a relationship they not sure what to call, is it just fun or something more, and to hide from Gray (Carolina’s brother, Drew’s best mate).
Carolina is strong in her ambitions and what she wants in her work life, her dreams for her fashion line. But doesn’t think it’s possible for a relationship to fit in at the moment.
Drew is funny, sexy, charming. He is focused with his hockey career. He wants to explore what he feels for Carolina but doesn’t want to hold up her career dreams.
They spend the holidays together, Christmas with her family, new years just the two of them at Grays place in floirda. They start to realise when not together they miss each other. That they may have more feelings for each other than they want to admit. Drew has never had a relationship, just gone through woman, Carolina feels he’s just in it for sex and going to walk out on her as he has done before.
I loved the banter and wit with these two. They bring out the best in each other. Open each other up to fun and games. The way they both start to realise they are in love with each other and need one another. They had the slow burning sex, many times where you can feel yourself its more than just hot sex. There is some really sweet romantic scenes too, that really surprise you from Drew. The chemistry between these two is on fire. Carolina brings out his animal side and he brings out her sexuality, to go for what she wants no inhibitions. I loved the scene at Madison Square Garden, wow that was hot! By the pool at Grays place yum!!
I love the combination of sports and the romance. Again, I want to come and watch an ice hockey game!!
This is such a fun, loving, hot series. An absolute favourite.
I had counted down for this release, couldn’t wait for Drew and Carolina’s story. And oh god it was fantastic!!! I am a sucker for brothers best friend/best friends sister stories. And this just ticked all the boxes!! I loved it.
They have a past which brings up bad/embarrassed feelings for each. Drew apologises and Carolina starts to realise he is genuine in his apology. Now years later Drew is helping Carolina out for her upcoming line for Fashion Week. They both live in New York and start spending time together. Which of course leads to sex, a relationship they not sure what to call, is it just fun or something more, and to hide from Gray (Carolina’s brother, Drew’s best mate).
Carolina is strong in her ambitions and what she wants in her work life, her dreams for her fashion line. But doesn’t think it’s possible for a relationship to fit in at the moment.
Drew is funny, sexy, charming. He is focused with his hockey career. He wants to explore what he feels for Carolina but doesn’t want to hold up her career dreams.
They spend the holidays together, Christmas with her family, new years just the two of them at Grays place in floirda. They start to realise when not together they miss each other. That they may have more feelings for each other than they want to admit. Drew has never had a relationship, just gone through woman, Carolina feels he’s just in it for sex and going to walk out on her as he has done before.
I loved the banter and wit with these two. They bring out the best in each other. Open each other up to fun and games. The way they both start to realise they are in love with each other and need one another. They had the slow burning sex, many times where you can feel yourself its more than just hot sex. There is some really sweet romantic scenes too, that really surprise you from Drew. The chemistry between these two is on fire. Carolina brings out his animal side and he brings out her sexuality, to go for what she wants no inhibitions. I loved the scene at Madison Square Garden, wow that was hot! By the pool at Grays place yum!!
I love the combination of sports and the romance. Again, I want to come and watch an ice hockey game!!
This is such a fun, loving, hot series. An absolute favourite.
May 30, 2014
Melting the Ice
2 Stars
Why do I continue with this series? Maybe its the sensationally sexy covers, or perhaps it is the occasional glimpse of a great couple and engaging storyline as in books #2 Changing the Game and #5 Thrown by a Curve. Unfortunately, Melting the Ice does not provide that elusive story, and the cover does not compensate for the stilted writing (Burton can do so much better) or lackluster characters.
Drew is a narcissistic jerk whose humungous ego knows no bounds, and Carolina is a doormat plain and simple. She forgives Drew’s behavior both past and present far too easily apparently because he looks good in the clothes she designs.
Drew and Carolina’s chemistry is virtually non-existent. There is no real emotion in their relationship, which mainly consists of of a series of mechanical sexcapades in outlandish locations. Simply put, their romance is non-sensical and unbelievable.
The secondary characters are nothing more than window dressing and add absolutely nothing to the story. The updates to Evelyn and Gray’s romance feel as if Burton is merely going through the motions, and the short trip to the Briscoe family is tacked on as a short intro to the next book.
In sum, a contrived, predictable and mundane addition to the series, which is a pity as Burton’s sports romance concept has such tremendous potential.
2 Stars
Why do I continue with this series? Maybe its the sensationally sexy covers, or perhaps it is the occasional glimpse of a great couple and engaging storyline as in books #2 Changing the Game and #5 Thrown by a Curve. Unfortunately, Melting the Ice does not provide that elusive story, and the cover does not compensate for the stilted writing (Burton can do so much better) or lackluster characters.
Drew is a narcissistic jerk whose humungous ego knows no bounds, and Carolina is a doormat plain and simple. She forgives Drew’s behavior both past and present far too easily apparently because he looks good in the clothes she designs.
Drew and Carolina’s chemistry is virtually non-existent. There is no real emotion in their relationship, which mainly consists of of a series of mechanical sexcapades in outlandish locations. Simply put, their romance is non-sensical and unbelievable.
The secondary characters are nothing more than window dressing and add absolutely nothing to the story. The updates to Evelyn and Gray’s romance feel as if Burton is merely going through the motions, and the short trip to the Briscoe family is tacked on as a short intro to the next book.
In sum, a contrived, predictable and mundane addition to the series, which is a pity as Burton’s sports romance concept has such tremendous potential.
January 30, 2014
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: B
The one thing about this series that I’ve come to love is the combination of sports and sexiness that Burton always gives us. It started with the Riley family and has now ventured off to their friends and in Melting the Ice, we get the story between Carolina, an up and coming fashion designer who’s talked her sports star brother, Gray into being one of her models and he in turn asked his best friend Drew, a hockey star to also help Carolina out. Being a friend of the whole family, Drew agrees and as he and Carolina start to spend more time together, their chemistry is undeniable, but they shared one sexy night years ago that resulted in Drew never calling Carolina again. She was hurt, he had been her big crush and his attitude after their night together hurt her badly and that’s been something that’s gone unspoken and unresolved between them for years, until now. It’s time they talked about the past and they’re both now open to seeing where the future might take them.
There’s something about this series that’s just fun for me. I’ve come to expect very hot, sexy scenes, but I’m a sports fanatic and I love the way Burton manages to weave the romance with sports in such a way that just works. I love that the heroes, who tend to be the sports stars in the series, and their heroines, who have just as demanding careers, find a way to make things work. In this case, Carolina is working her fingers to the bone trying to get her designs ready for fashion week (I kept picturing the craziness of Project Runway during her scenes) and it’s up to Drew to force Carolina to stop and have a little fun. Whether it was going to one of his hockey games, taking an ice skating break or a quick weekend trip away, he always found a way to get her to take some down time and they were able to find time in both their busy schedules to be together and discover just where their new relationship was going.
I only wanted to smack Drew once during the story, he got it in his head that Carolina was dividing his attention too much away from hockey and that was the reason he wasn’t as focused and as a result was the reason his team just couldn’t find a way to win on the road. Instead of talking to Carolina about it, he pulls away, dumb hero. Thankfully, Carolina was the level headed one here and Drew does come around and grovels nicely, but it was a moment that I wish Drew could take back. Otherwise, I fully enjoyed their romance and seeing how they made their relationship work around two very demanding careers.
Since we’ve moved farther away from the Riley’s, they don’t show up here but we do get plenty of page time for this new set of friends that Drew is a part of. His college buddy and Carolina’s brother Gray has a nice supporting role along with his better half, Evelyn. We also get to know a little more about Trevor and his potential heroine, Haven and the horrible time she’s having right now, with her father who is only given weeks to live. I like what I read of both these characters and can’t wait to see them together on page in the next book.
This series just hits it right with me. I know I’ll always get a sexy story with some fun sports moments, not a lot of angst (which is a nice bonus) and Melting the Ice is no exception. I enjoyed Carolina and Drew, both individually and together. It’s a nice, sexy read and one that fans of the series will certainly enjoy. If you love sports and love romance, this series combines them both so well and continues to be one I look forward to getting back to with each new book.
Blog rating: B
The one thing about this series that I’ve come to love is the combination of sports and sexiness that Burton always gives us. It started with the Riley family and has now ventured off to their friends and in Melting the Ice, we get the story between Carolina, an up and coming fashion designer who’s talked her sports star brother, Gray into being one of her models and he in turn asked his best friend Drew, a hockey star to also help Carolina out. Being a friend of the whole family, Drew agrees and as he and Carolina start to spend more time together, their chemistry is undeniable, but they shared one sexy night years ago that resulted in Drew never calling Carolina again. She was hurt, he had been her big crush and his attitude after their night together hurt her badly and that’s been something that’s gone unspoken and unresolved between them for years, until now. It’s time they talked about the past and they’re both now open to seeing where the future might take them.
There’s something about this series that’s just fun for me. I’ve come to expect very hot, sexy scenes, but I’m a sports fanatic and I love the way Burton manages to weave the romance with sports in such a way that just works. I love that the heroes, who tend to be the sports stars in the series, and their heroines, who have just as demanding careers, find a way to make things work. In this case, Carolina is working her fingers to the bone trying to get her designs ready for fashion week (I kept picturing the craziness of Project Runway during her scenes) and it’s up to Drew to force Carolina to stop and have a little fun. Whether it was going to one of his hockey games, taking an ice skating break or a quick weekend trip away, he always found a way to get her to take some down time and they were able to find time in both their busy schedules to be together and discover just where their new relationship was going.
I only wanted to smack Drew once during the story, he got it in his head that Carolina was dividing his attention too much away from hockey and that was the reason he wasn’t as focused and as a result was the reason his team just couldn’t find a way to win on the road. Instead of talking to Carolina about it, he pulls away, dumb hero. Thankfully, Carolina was the level headed one here and Drew does come around and grovels nicely, but it was a moment that I wish Drew could take back. Otherwise, I fully enjoyed their romance and seeing how they made their relationship work around two very demanding careers.
Since we’ve moved farther away from the Riley’s, they don’t show up here but we do get plenty of page time for this new set of friends that Drew is a part of. His college buddy and Carolina’s brother Gray has a nice supporting role along with his better half, Evelyn. We also get to know a little more about Trevor and his potential heroine, Haven and the horrible time she’s having right now, with her father who is only given weeks to live. I like what I read of both these characters and can’t wait to see them together on page in the next book.
This series just hits it right with me. I know I’ll always get a sexy story with some fun sports moments, not a lot of angst (which is a nice bonus) and Melting the Ice is no exception. I enjoyed Carolina and Drew, both individually and together. It’s a nice, sexy read and one that fans of the series will certainly enjoy. If you love sports and love romance, this series combines them both so well and continues to be one I look forward to getting back to with each new book.
September 29, 2016
Melting The Ice es el septimo libro de la saga Play By Play creada por la autora Jaci Burton y narra la historia de Carolina ( Lina ) y Drew, personajes que conocemos en el libro anterior.
Esta serie sigue teniendo algo que me atrapa, aunque es cierto que a este libro le falto " sentimiento ", la historia de amor entre los protagonistas no consiguio emocionarme, tambien es verdad que los libros de esta saga no son romantiquisimos ni llenos de amor, aun asi este me parecio muy superfluo, como si la autora no tuviera ganas de profundizar en la historia.
Con eso no digo que sea una lectura horrible, esta bien para pasar el rato pero no esta a la altura de los demas.
Tambien reconozco que quizas no estoy siendo muy imparcial ya que estoy en un momento triste de mi vida y quizas por eso estaba un poco apatica con la historia pero la verdad es que no cumplio mis expectativas y eso que no tenia demasiadas esperanzas puesta en esta historia.
2 Estrellas!
February 4, 2014
Well, I gotta say the last few books in this series have been a bit of hit and miss for me, BUT with Melting The Ice, Jaci is definitely BACK IN THE GAME!!!!!! Absolutely enjoyed it and I can't wait to read Trevor and Haven's story next in Straddling the Line!!!
April 5, 2015
I am not sure why I kept reading this. Around a third in I was bored by it. But I kept going ... Half way it was clear to me that this will never be my kinda book ... And still I kept going.
When I finally finished it- it felt like a huge achievement to get to the end of this book - I felt relieve that I was done. And ever since I am wondering WHY on earth I kept reading it?
Clearly this is not my kind of book.
The plot bored me, the smut left me totally cold and the characters - well honestly - even if I could ignore that they were uber- cliche - the dialogues were woody and well, beyond cliche...
And still I read the entire thing? I think because I had hopes that this could be better- would get better ... The idea though not the most inventive- a sports hottie falling for his best friends sister-- could have been sooooo good
Oh and the dude is a hockey player... I mean this should be good right? But well it wasn't.
I love hockey but even the hockey scenes did not work for me at all. They felt formulated and woody.
So why did I keep reading? I don't know!! I can tell why I started it though- have you seen the cover? Yep, I am at times a cover slut (ok I totally am one, always) Add to that the promise of a a hockey cute and fluffy.. You got me! Apparently even when I end up not enjoying it at all
All in all lots of promise sadly it was all delivered in a too cliche and formulated way - just not my thing
When I finally finished it- it felt like a huge achievement to get to the end of this book - I felt relieve that I was done. And ever since I am wondering WHY on earth I kept reading it?
Clearly this is not my kind of book.
The plot bored me, the smut left me totally cold and the characters - well honestly - even if I could ignore that they were uber- cliche - the dialogues were woody and well, beyond cliche...
And still I read the entire thing? I think because I had hopes that this could be better- would get better ... The idea though not the most inventive- a sports hottie falling for his best friends sister-- could have been sooooo good
Oh and the dude is a hockey player... I mean this should be good right? But well it wasn't.
I love hockey but even the hockey scenes did not work for me at all. They felt formulated and woody.
So why did I keep reading? I don't know!! I can tell why I started it though- have you seen the cover? Yep, I am at times a cover slut (ok I totally am one, always) Add to that the promise of a a hockey cute and fluffy.. You got me! Apparently even when I end up not enjoying it at all
All in all lots of promise sadly it was all delivered in a too cliche and formulated way - just not my thing
March 14, 2014
I haven't read other books in this series but that wasn't a problem, the problem was that the book was bland, I felt nothing was happening. The heroine is invested in starting her career as a solo designer, the hero is someone she had a thing for in college, she slept with him, he was the typical insensitive guy. Both of them start sleeping with each other again, it is convenient. Honestly, I didn't think they had feelings for each other. Overall very average.
November 25, 2018
Seemed like it was a reversal of usual roles which I really liked. I hated that the old dorm dad story was left kind of open at the end, sort of. I assume when they get to the daughter's story that will be fixed. Seemed like a lot was left up in the air at the end of this one actually.
Spoiler: I'm disappointed about the pregnancy because Evelyn clearly said she wanted to be married for awhile first and work on her career. I did, however, love how Carolina and Drew got caught and I believe that was handled very well.
Spoiler: I'm disappointed about the pregnancy because Evelyn clearly said she wanted to be married for awhile first and work on her career. I did, however, love how Carolina and Drew got caught and I believe that was handled very well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2018
Cute characters, lovely story. I love her books
January 23, 2014
Oh man. This book. So. Good. I mean, one look at this cover and I knew that I was going to love every second of it. But my expectations didn't even come close to how much I ended up loving this one!
Carolina Preston is living her dream- launching her own fashion line. Working day and night, Carolina can't let anything get in the way of making her line a success. But when her brother recruits his best friend, hockey hotshot Drew Hogan, to be one of her male models, Carolina is anything but excited. She and Drew have a past that includes one steamy night in college where Carolina wakes up the next morning alone with a broken heart. Now that they're adults, though, Carolina hopes she can keep their relationship strictly professional. But Drew's determined to show Carolina he's not the same playboy he was back then. Can Carolina learn to forgive Drew without letting her dedication to her work take over her life?
Where to start? As far as heroines go, I loved Carolina's character. She is a dedicated, driven women who wasn't about to let Drew back into her life that easily. But she still showed her southern charm by never being flat out rude to Drew. Carolina is just a super sweet girl who was really hurt by a guy she idolized in college, and has to work VERY closely with him in order to reach the success she's dreamed of her entire life.
But, oh boy, does Drew redeem himself. I love how he's incorporated into Carolina's fashion line and is such an inspiration to her men's line. The way the author describes how he moves both on and off the ice, though, sounds pretty inspirational to me as well! Drew may be a hotshot hockey player, but he's so gosh darn sweet and has really changed from the player he was in college.
What else this there to say? Jaci Burton is at it again with another irresistible sports romance that is impossible to put down. The characters are lovable, even the secondary characters, and the story is utterly sweet with its steamy moments thrown in at just the right moments. If you want a story with a hot, athletic hero and a determined, charming heroine, you have to pick up Melting the Ice as soon as possible. You're missing out on a fantastic story written by the queen of sports romances!
Carolina Preston is living her dream- launching her own fashion line. Working day and night, Carolina can't let anything get in the way of making her line a success. But when her brother recruits his best friend, hockey hotshot Drew Hogan, to be one of her male models, Carolina is anything but excited. She and Drew have a past that includes one steamy night in college where Carolina wakes up the next morning alone with a broken heart. Now that they're adults, though, Carolina hopes she can keep their relationship strictly professional. But Drew's determined to show Carolina he's not the same playboy he was back then. Can Carolina learn to forgive Drew without letting her dedication to her work take over her life?
Where to start? As far as heroines go, I loved Carolina's character. She is a dedicated, driven women who wasn't about to let Drew back into her life that easily. But she still showed her southern charm by never being flat out rude to Drew. Carolina is just a super sweet girl who was really hurt by a guy she idolized in college, and has to work VERY closely with him in order to reach the success she's dreamed of her entire life.
But, oh boy, does Drew redeem himself. I love how he's incorporated into Carolina's fashion line and is such an inspiration to her men's line. The way the author describes how he moves both on and off the ice, though, sounds pretty inspirational to me as well! Drew may be a hotshot hockey player, but he's so gosh darn sweet and has really changed from the player he was in college.
What else this there to say? Jaci Burton is at it again with another irresistible sports romance that is impossible to put down. The characters are lovable, even the secondary characters, and the story is utterly sweet with its steamy moments thrown in at just the right moments. If you want a story with a hot, athletic hero and a determined, charming heroine, you have to pick up Melting the Ice as soon as possible. You're missing out on a fantastic story written by the queen of sports romances!
January 7, 2014
Seven books in and Burton’s Play-by-Play series is still as hot as ever! Gray’s little sister, Carolina Preston lives by the “all work, no play” mantra. As a designer, she is busy creating her new fashion line and doesn’t have time for things like sex or men. However, Drew Hogan is the persistent type and has one advantage over all other men – he has had her before. In fact, Drew was the lucky man to take Carolina’s virginity. Since that night and the awful mistakes he made, Drew must now make Carolina trust him again, but the little designer isn’t quite ready to give in.
Burton does a fantastic job with the progression of the romance in this one. Drew didn’t come off as too cocky or arrogant, but just enough so that it was sweet and confident instead. I liked the fact that he knew what he wanted and didn’t constantly change his mind about it even when Carolina resisted initially. Their banter is refreshing and entertaining as Drew slowly chipped away at Carolina’s tough exterior. She is so set on resisting him that I looked forward to seeing how Drew found a way around her reasons of why she couldn’t go out with him.
As always, the sex is red hot and scorching, delving not just into the physical but also the emotional. When Drew is invited to spend the holidays with the Prestons, that’s really where the swift in the romance begins and Burton really pulls in the reins.
MELTING THE ICE is aptly named. Burton dishes out another satisfying romance, this time accompanied by slow-burning sex scenes and a timeless romance.
Burton does a fantastic job with the progression of the romance in this one. Drew didn’t come off as too cocky or arrogant, but just enough so that it was sweet and confident instead. I liked the fact that he knew what he wanted and didn’t constantly change his mind about it even when Carolina resisted initially. Their banter is refreshing and entertaining as Drew slowly chipped away at Carolina’s tough exterior. She is so set on resisting him that I looked forward to seeing how Drew found a way around her reasons of why she couldn’t go out with him.
As always, the sex is red hot and scorching, delving not just into the physical but also the emotional. When Drew is invited to spend the holidays with the Prestons, that’s really where the swift in the romance begins and Burton really pulls in the reins.
MELTING THE ICE is aptly named. Burton dishes out another satisfying romance, this time accompanied by slow-burning sex scenes and a timeless romance.
February 5, 2014
3-3.5 stars!!
So basically, I had waited and waited anxiously for about a year for this book and bought it the moment it went on retail BUT sadly it fell into the okay zone for me. I've been a big fan of this series for a while but I think when it came to this installment it was super draggy and could have been cut down into a novella perhaps. I felt that the story just went on and on in circles and kind of got repetitive after a while so hence my disappointed/bored face.
I mean, content and steam wise it was good but the length and pacing needed to be shortened and sped up.
I really now hope that Haven and Trevor's story will be even better since I suspect that it will take a more emotional toll with the loss of Haven's father/Trevor's idol.
Until then guys!!
So basically, I had waited and waited anxiously for about a year for this book and bought it the moment it went on retail BUT sadly it fell into the okay zone for me. I've been a big fan of this series for a while but I think when it came to this installment it was super draggy and could have been cut down into a novella perhaps. I felt that the story just went on and on in circles and kind of got repetitive after a while so hence my disappointed/bored face.
I mean, content and steam wise it was good but the length and pacing needed to be shortened and sped up.
I really now hope that Haven and Trevor's story will be even better since I suspect that it will take a more emotional toll with the loss of Haven's father/Trevor's idol.
Until then guys!!
February 26, 2014
*girly effing swoon* Okay. First off...the cover. It's absolutely covergasm-worthy. And all the little bits inside those pages *fans self* steamy, sexy, fun and just a damn good time. Melting the Ice. Yeah. It totally had me melting. I chuckled, teared up, swooned a little. Okay. A lot. And just enjoyed the hell out of watching Carolina and Drew take each other on as he helps model her new clothing line.
I really loved Drew--a lickable hockey star-- and Carolina--an up and coming fashion designer who needs said lickable hockey star's help showing off her clothes in a runway show.
These two were perfect for each other and, whew, they had a devil of a past to get over--seems Drew was a bit of a prick in his younger years--but he's all grown up and a really good man and now that he's in Carolina's world again he wants to make things right and maybe spend a little time getting up close and personal with her. Yums. Lucky bitch, right?? And these two...the chemistry was just excellent. No matter the situation you could feel the energy bouncing between them and it was really fun to watch.
I've gotta say. I've been having just fantastic luck with heroines lately. Carolina was great. She's motivated, driven, sweet. Incredibly talented and not one of those heroines that completely overreacts to things. I was all on board with her.
And...Drew. Lord love the bastard. He's a handful. A cheeky infuriating and absolutely delicious alpha male that totally won me over even when he had some make-you-smack-your-forehead moments. He's one of those people you just can't help but love or say no to. He's just got a way about him of pulling people into his plans and world.
Sexy times were abundant and hot. Ung. Yeah. They definitely work together. There's nothing too out there crazy but it's steamy and toe curling and had the perfect amount of erotic mixed in.
All in all, I just loved the dynamic between these two and watching them get to know each other and let go of the past. There were nice glimpses into each of their careers and little bit of relationship drama that Sweet Mary just made me ache a bit for them. There were a few minor things I would have liked a little more on and a couple spots where the editing wasn't quite tight enough but overall this was a fun read that really made me smile and brightened my day. There were some nice set ups for future reads as well that have me so blasted excited to see what happens next.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
I really loved Drew--a lickable hockey star-- and Carolina--an up and coming fashion designer who needs said lickable hockey star's help showing off her clothes in a runway show.
These two were perfect for each other and, whew, they had a devil of a past to get over--seems Drew was a bit of a prick in his younger years--but he's all grown up and a really good man and now that he's in Carolina's world again he wants to make things right and maybe spend a little time getting up close and personal with her. Yums. Lucky bitch, right?? And these two...the chemistry was just excellent. No matter the situation you could feel the energy bouncing between them and it was really fun to watch.
"I suppose the first thing I need to do is measure you."
His eyes gleamed and she could read the dirty thoughts in his head as if he were telegraphing them from his brain directly to hers.
"No, not that. Already seen it."
"Yeah, but one, you haven't seen it in a very long time. And two, have you ever measured it?" He wiggled his brows.
He was such a...guy. "Not necessary. But you could strip for me."
"Now you're talkin'." He undid his belt and reached for the zipper of his pants.
I've gotta say. I've been having just fantastic luck with heroines lately. Carolina was great. She's motivated, driven, sweet. Incredibly talented and not one of those heroines that completely overreacts to things. I was all on board with her.
And...Drew. Lord love the bastard. He's a handful. A cheeky infuriating and absolutely delicious alpha male that totally won me over even when he had some make-you-smack-your-forehead moments. He's one of those people you just can't help but love or say no to. He's just got a way about him of pulling people into his plans and world.
Sexy times were abundant and hot. Ung. Yeah. They definitely work together. There's nothing too out there crazy but it's steamy and toe curling and had the perfect amount of erotic mixed in.
All in all, I just loved the dynamic between these two and watching them get to know each other and let go of the past. There were nice glimpses into each of their careers and little bit of relationship drama that Sweet Mary just made me ache a bit for them. There were a few minor things I would have liked a little more on and a couple spots where the editing wasn't quite tight enough but overall this was a fun read that really made me smile and brightened my day. There were some nice set ups for future reads as well that have me so blasted excited to see what happens next.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
August 10, 2016
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie – Marta:
*eARC received by the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Jaci Burton writes books that are without a doubt sexy, romantic and full of characters to fall in love with. This is the latest in her Play By Play series which is set in the world of sport and this time she's exposing a certain ice hockey player to her readers. If you haven't read her books before then maybe start with The Perfect Play but this story can be read as a standalone.
Eight years ago Carolina spent one blissful night in the arms of the one man she had always wanted. Drew was celebrating his graduation and couldn't believe his luck when the enchanting Carolina said she wanted him. He'd always avoided her as his best friend is her brother but that night lust and alcohol just stole all his good sense. Carolina was devastated when in the cold light of day it was obvious that to Drew it was just a one time only thing. Now she's making a life for herself and the one thing she doesn't need is any reminder of her past mistake.
Carolina is trying to make a name for herself in the fashion world and asks her brother to model for her. He's happy to help but before she can stop him he contacts his best friend Drew to ask him about modelling Carolina's clothes. Having a sporting icon would be good publicity but the last thing Carolina wants is to spend any time with ice hockey professional Drew. Problem is Drew seems more than happy to help and Carolina can't help but feel that he's trying to manipulate her in some way. Drew realises that he behaved like an immature idiot in the past and wants to show Carolina that he's grown up. Working together could give him plenty of opportunity to show Carolina that he's changed and if he's lucky maybe he can get the chance to show her that he's now ready for something more meaningful.
Drew is still the man that Carolina fantasies about but there's no way she will let him break her heart again. Yet Drew is constantly surprising her and Carolina starts to see the man that he has become. Will her family accept him in her life and just where are they heading?There's no denying the passion between them but can Carolina really forgive him?
This is the seventh book in this fast paced series and as usual it's a very heated tale! This author writes books that are definitely hot enough to melt ice! A steamy read is always guaranteed when you buy one of these books.
Absolutely gorgeous cover that will certainly attract attention and characters with heart that readers will care about. This book will certainly make any reader smile as the hero Drew pursues his lady. Luckily she stops running long enough for him to catch her!
*eARC received by the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Jaci Burton writes books that are without a doubt sexy, romantic and full of characters to fall in love with. This is the latest in her Play By Play series which is set in the world of sport and this time she's exposing a certain ice hockey player to her readers. If you haven't read her books before then maybe start with The Perfect Play but this story can be read as a standalone.
Eight years ago Carolina spent one blissful night in the arms of the one man she had always wanted. Drew was celebrating his graduation and couldn't believe his luck when the enchanting Carolina said she wanted him. He'd always avoided her as his best friend is her brother but that night lust and alcohol just stole all his good sense. Carolina was devastated when in the cold light of day it was obvious that to Drew it was just a one time only thing. Now she's making a life for herself and the one thing she doesn't need is any reminder of her past mistake.
Carolina is trying to make a name for herself in the fashion world and asks her brother to model for her. He's happy to help but before she can stop him he contacts his best friend Drew to ask him about modelling Carolina's clothes. Having a sporting icon would be good publicity but the last thing Carolina wants is to spend any time with ice hockey professional Drew. Problem is Drew seems more than happy to help and Carolina can't help but feel that he's trying to manipulate her in some way. Drew realises that he behaved like an immature idiot in the past and wants to show Carolina that he's grown up. Working together could give him plenty of opportunity to show Carolina that he's changed and if he's lucky maybe he can get the chance to show her that he's now ready for something more meaningful.
Drew is still the man that Carolina fantasies about but there's no way she will let him break her heart again. Yet Drew is constantly surprising her and Carolina starts to see the man that he has become. Will her family accept him in her life and just where are they heading?There's no denying the passion between them but can Carolina really forgive him?
This is the seventh book in this fast paced series and as usual it's a very heated tale! This author writes books that are definitely hot enough to melt ice! A steamy read is always guaranteed when you buy one of these books.
Absolutely gorgeous cover that will certainly attract attention and characters with heart that readers will care about. This book will certainly make any reader smile as the hero Drew pursues his lady. Luckily she stops running long enough for him to catch her!
January 4, 2014
Jaci Burton writes books that are without a doubt sexy, romantic and full of characters to fall in love with. This is the latest in her Play By Play series which is set in the world of sport and this time she's exposing a certain ice hockey player to her readers. If you haven't read her books before then maybe start with The Perfect Play but this story can be read as a standalone . Eight years ago Carolina spent one blissful night in the arms of the one man she had always wanted. Drew was celebrating his graduation and couldn't believe his luck when the enchanting Carolina said she wanted him. He'd always avoided her as his best friend is her brother but that night lust and alcohol just stole all his good sense. Carolina was devastated when in the cold light of day it was obvious that to Drew it was just a one time only thing. Now she's making a life for herself and the one thing she doesn't need is any reminder of her past mistake.
Carolina is trying to make a name for herself in the fashion world and asks her brother to model for her. He's happy to help but before she can stop him he contacts his best friend Drew to ask him about modelling Carolina's clothes. Having a sporting icon would be good publicity but the last thing Carolina wants is to spend any time with ice hockey professional Drew. Problem is Drew seems more than happy to help and Carolina can't help but feel that he's trying to manipulate her in some way. Drew realises that he behaved like an immature idiot in the past and wants to show Carolina that he's grown up. Working together could give him plenty of opportunity to show Carolina that he's changed and if he's lucky maybe he can get the chance to show her that he's now ready for something more meaningful. Drew is still the man that Carolina fantasies about but there's no way she will let him break her heart again. Yet Drew is constantly surprising her and Carolina starts to see the man that he has become. Will her family accept him in her life and just where are they heading?There's no denying the passion between them but can Carolina really forgive him? This is the seventh book in this fast paced series and as usual it's a very heated tale! This author writes books that are definitely hot enough to melt ice! A steamy read is always guaranteed when you buy one of these books.
Absolutely gorgeous cover that will certainly attract attention and characters with heart that readers will care about. This book will certainly make any reader smile as the hero Drew pursues his lady. Luckily she stops running long enough for him to catch her!
Carolina is trying to make a name for herself in the fashion world and asks her brother to model for her. He's happy to help but before she can stop him he contacts his best friend Drew to ask him about modelling Carolina's clothes. Having a sporting icon would be good publicity but the last thing Carolina wants is to spend any time with ice hockey professional Drew. Problem is Drew seems more than happy to help and Carolina can't help but feel that he's trying to manipulate her in some way. Drew realises that he behaved like an immature idiot in the past and wants to show Carolina that he's grown up. Working together could give him plenty of opportunity to show Carolina that he's changed and if he's lucky maybe he can get the chance to show her that he's now ready for something more meaningful. Drew is still the man that Carolina fantasies about but there's no way she will let him break her heart again. Yet Drew is constantly surprising her and Carolina starts to see the man that he has become. Will her family accept him in her life and just where are they heading?There's no denying the passion between them but can Carolina really forgive him? This is the seventh book in this fast paced series and as usual it's a very heated tale! This author writes books that are definitely hot enough to melt ice! A steamy read is always guaranteed when you buy one of these books.
Absolutely gorgeous cover that will certainly attract attention and characters with heart that readers will care about. This book will certainly make any reader smile as the hero Drew pursues his lady. Luckily she stops running long enough for him to catch her!
February 9, 2014
Rhayne‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
4.5 STARS
Melting the Ice completely and totally melted my heart. We are seven books into this series and each new book continues to bring original compelling plots and a whole cast of characters that become so alive you experience their emotions right along with their story. But honestly what else do we expect from Ms. Burton? She is one of the best at what she does.
Drew and Carolina share a story that is loaded with some of my favorite book themes. We get everything from, the brother’s best friend and his sister, a one-night hookup from the past that was a disaster, careers getting in the way of having a relationship, and best of all, hockey. Which of course is only the best sport in the entire world. Mix all of this together and throw in a massive amount of sizzling, spicy sex and you have a guaranteed best seller.
I loved the pace of this story. They had a disastrous past to overcome and they really had a chance to build a foundation to their relationship. It wasn’t a rushed love story and she wasn’t giving into to his guaranteed charms. He had to work and prove to her that he deserved to be a part of her life.
As far as Carolina goes, she is completely focused on her career. She comes from money and is set out to prove to everyone that she is one of the best in the fashion world. She is tired of everyone thinking she can buy her way through life. She has no time to commit to a relationship. She has no desire to have a life outside of her career and she has no plans of ever being with Drew again. But Drew is relentless in his quest to prove he isn’t the same guy he was years ago. His biggest challenge yet is to prove to her he is worth her time.
Add her intense work schedule to his hockey schedule and there isn’t much time left over for much of anything. Their journey from point A to point B is fantastic. They definitely have a lot of up and down moments, but it just adds a lot to the final ah hah moment when they both realize they need each other and are both willing to make adjustments and sacrifices to make that happen.
This is one of my favorite sports themed series. Ms. Burton knows what she is writing about and she has a way to pull you right onto the ice, field, or the track. This is a guaranteed winner and one that you won’t want to miss out on.
Review copy provided for an honest review
4.5 STARS
Melting the Ice completely and totally melted my heart. We are seven books into this series and each new book continues to bring original compelling plots and a whole cast of characters that become so alive you experience their emotions right along with their story. But honestly what else do we expect from Ms. Burton? She is one of the best at what she does.
Drew and Carolina share a story that is loaded with some of my favorite book themes. We get everything from, the brother’s best friend and his sister, a one-night hookup from the past that was a disaster, careers getting in the way of having a relationship, and best of all, hockey. Which of course is only the best sport in the entire world. Mix all of this together and throw in a massive amount of sizzling, spicy sex and you have a guaranteed best seller.
I loved the pace of this story. They had a disastrous past to overcome and they really had a chance to build a foundation to their relationship. It wasn’t a rushed love story and she wasn’t giving into to his guaranteed charms. He had to work and prove to her that he deserved to be a part of her life.
As far as Carolina goes, she is completely focused on her career. She comes from money and is set out to prove to everyone that she is one of the best in the fashion world. She is tired of everyone thinking she can buy her way through life. She has no time to commit to a relationship. She has no desire to have a life outside of her career and she has no plans of ever being with Drew again. But Drew is relentless in his quest to prove he isn’t the same guy he was years ago. His biggest challenge yet is to prove to her he is worth her time.
Add her intense work schedule to his hockey schedule and there isn’t much time left over for much of anything. Their journey from point A to point B is fantastic. They definitely have a lot of up and down moments, but it just adds a lot to the final ah hah moment when they both realize they need each other and are both willing to make adjustments and sacrifices to make that happen.
This is one of my favorite sports themed series. Ms. Burton knows what she is writing about and she has a way to pull you right onto the ice, field, or the track. This is a guaranteed winner and one that you won’t want to miss out on.
February 9, 2014
4.5 STARS
Melting the Ice completely and totally melted my heart. We are seven books into this series and each new book continues to bring original compelling plots and a whole cast of characters that become so alive you experience their emotions right along with their story. But honestly what else do we expect from Ms. Burton? She is one of the best at what she does.
Drew and Carolina share a story that is loaded with some of my favorite book themes. We get everything from, the brother’s best friend and his sister, a one-night hookup from the past that was a disaster, careers getting in the way of having a relationship, and best of all, hockey. Which of course is only the best sport in the entire world. Mix all of this together and throw in a massive amount of sizzling, spicy sex and you have a guaranteed best seller.
I loved the pace of this story. They had a disastrous past to overcome and they really had a chance to build a foundation to their relationship. It wasn’t a rushed love story and she wasn’t giving into to his guaranteed charms. He had to work and prove to her that he deserved to be a part of her life.
As far as Carolina goes, she is completely focused on her career. She comes from money and is set out to prove to everyone that she is one of the best in the fashion world. She is tired of everyone thinking she can buy her way through life. She has no time to commit to a relationship. She has no desire to have a life outside of her career and she has no plans of ever being with Drew again. But Drew is relentless in his quest to prove he isn’t the same guy he was years ago. His biggest challenge yet is to prove to her he is worth her time.
Add her intense work schedule to his hockey schedule and there isn’t much time left over for much of anything. Their journey from point A to point B is fantastic. They definitely have a lot of up and down moments, but it just adds a lot to the final ah hah moment when they both realize they need each other and are both willing to make adjustments and sacrifices to make that happen.
This is one of my favorite sports themed series. Ms. Burton knows what she is writing about and she has a way to pull you right onto the ice, field, or the track. This is a guaranteed winner and one that you won’t want to miss out on
Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
Melting the Ice completely and totally melted my heart. We are seven books into this series and each new book continues to bring original compelling plots and a whole cast of characters that become so alive you experience their emotions right along with their story. But honestly what else do we expect from Ms. Burton? She is one of the best at what she does.
Drew and Carolina share a story that is loaded with some of my favorite book themes. We get everything from, the brother’s best friend and his sister, a one-night hookup from the past that was a disaster, careers getting in the way of having a relationship, and best of all, hockey. Which of course is only the best sport in the entire world. Mix all of this together and throw in a massive amount of sizzling, spicy sex and you have a guaranteed best seller.
I loved the pace of this story. They had a disastrous past to overcome and they really had a chance to build a foundation to their relationship. It wasn’t a rushed love story and she wasn’t giving into to his guaranteed charms. He had to work and prove to her that he deserved to be a part of her life.
As far as Carolina goes, she is completely focused on her career. She comes from money and is set out to prove to everyone that she is one of the best in the fashion world. She is tired of everyone thinking she can buy her way through life. She has no time to commit to a relationship. She has no desire to have a life outside of her career and she has no plans of ever being with Drew again. But Drew is relentless in his quest to prove he isn’t the same guy he was years ago. His biggest challenge yet is to prove to her he is worth her time.
Add her intense work schedule to his hockey schedule and there isn’t much time left over for much of anything. Their journey from point A to point B is fantastic. They definitely have a lot of up and down moments, but it just adds a lot to the final ah hah moment when they both realize they need each other and are both willing to make adjustments and sacrifices to make that happen.
This is one of my favorite sports themed series. Ms. Burton knows what she is writing about and she has a way to pull you right onto the ice, field, or the track. This is a guaranteed winner and one that you won’t want to miss out on
Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
February 10, 2014
I feel like I'm rating this series a bit low, considering I always come back for more soon after release. But at the same time, this is not perfect material IMHO, good entertaining one but with recurring flaws.
This book was very typical of that.
Both lead characters are quite likeable, seem like real persons living in today's world. I liked that the hero had, on his own and previous to the start of the book, left his womanizer days behind and tried, more or less, for more meaningful interactions, though it was quite unclear whether he really had had any even temporary girlfriend before, as opposed to bed-hopping sport bunnies, which he enjoyed plenty before hand.
The plot was quite simple, some might consider not much happened, which is true but when it works, I do not ask for endless difficulties and misunderstandings to accumulate and delay the ending. I really appreciated that in this specific case, H/h managed to build a good dialogue, filled with trust and confidence in each others; only once was there a stupid misunderstanding and breach of trust in their relationship, partly due to a lack of explanations from the hero, and it did not last long, not took epic proportions.
However this book remains overall very light and a large sequence of pages and scenes are focused on sex interactions. Those scenes were more successful and less repetitive than in the previous book, but they took a bit too much space, vs. their dialogues and lives together. It did not leave me totally convinced at the end of the book that their relationship was really deep and strong enough to withstand whatever difficulties might come, especially if sex could not be the solution to those future difficulties.
The ending remains wide open, which I like especially in light contemporary romance, but which might frustrate readers expecting epilogue wrapping up all loose ends.
This book was very typical of that.
Both lead characters are quite likeable, seem like real persons living in today's world. I liked that the hero had, on his own and previous to the start of the book, left his womanizer days behind and tried, more or less, for more meaningful interactions, though it was quite unclear whether he really had had any even temporary girlfriend before, as opposed to bed-hopping sport bunnies, which he enjoyed plenty before hand.
The plot was quite simple, some might consider not much happened, which is true but when it works, I do not ask for endless difficulties and misunderstandings to accumulate and delay the ending. I really appreciated that in this specific case, H/h managed to build a good dialogue, filled with trust and confidence in each others; only once was there a stupid misunderstanding and breach of trust in their relationship, partly due to a lack of explanations from the hero, and it did not last long, not took epic proportions.
However this book remains overall very light and a large sequence of pages and scenes are focused on sex interactions. Those scenes were more successful and less repetitive than in the previous book, but they took a bit too much space, vs. their dialogues and lives together. It did not leave me totally convinced at the end of the book that their relationship was really deep and strong enough to withstand whatever difficulties might come, especially if sex could not be the solution to those future difficulties.
The ending remains wide open, which I like especially in light contemporary romance, but which might frustrate readers expecting epilogue wrapping up all loose ends.
February 9, 2014
I was SO excited for the next book in the Play-By-Play Series. And Drew and Carolina's story did NOT disappoint.
I always wanted to know exactly what happened between the two of them way back when, and how they would put the pieces back together. Drew, he did a good job. Great come back!
This story was very laid back-which I enjoyed. Not alot of drama and not alot of commotion and interruption from others. Yes, we did hear from Gray and Evelyn (which I was pumped about). Gray's gonna be a father!!!! But the story was mainly about Drew and Carolina in there own little bubble in New York.
Carolina fought. She fought HARD against herself and her feelings/needs/wants of Drew, but Drew being who he is to Carolina knew that if all he did was really show her that he had changed and who he wanted to be for her that Carolina would give him a second chance. For that same reason though (Drew being who he is to Carolina) she'd already forgiven him. She'd loved him most of her life and he knew that she was always the one. So when they time presented itself for them to be in eachothers lives again...the heat between the two of them melted away all the ice from being broken and guarded.
I LOVED that Carolina was an artist, I loved how Drew called her Lina, I loved how Gray nearly beat the shit out of Carolina until she set them both straight, I loved how Drew always got up at diner to kiss/hug/talk to Carolina, I loved how Drew surprised Carolina at every turn. Hell, I just loved Drew and Carolina!
I always wanted to know exactly what happened between the two of them way back when, and how they would put the pieces back together. Drew, he did a good job. Great come back!
This story was very laid back-which I enjoyed. Not alot of drama and not alot of commotion and interruption from others. Yes, we did hear from Gray and Evelyn (which I was pumped about). Gray's gonna be a father!!!! But the story was mainly about Drew and Carolina in there own little bubble in New York.
Carolina fought. She fought HARD against herself and her feelings/needs/wants of Drew, but Drew being who he is to Carolina knew that if all he did was really show her that he had changed and who he wanted to be for her that Carolina would give him a second chance. For that same reason though (Drew being who he is to Carolina) she'd already forgiven him. She'd loved him most of her life and he knew that she was always the one. So when they time presented itself for them to be in eachothers lives again...the heat between the two of them melted away all the ice from being broken and guarded.
I LOVED that Carolina was an artist, I loved how Drew called her Lina, I loved how Gray nearly beat the shit out of Carolina until she set them both straight, I loved how Drew always got up at diner to kiss/hug/talk to Carolina, I loved how Drew surprised Carolina at every turn. Hell, I just loved Drew and Carolina!
February 4, 2014
I like that with Jaci Burton's books you always get what you see. The cover is hot and so is the content of the book. I really enjoyed Carolina and Drew's story and I was glad they both took the second chance they had been given. Even though they were both stubborn as hell, and the more Carolina had resisted in the beginning the more Drew teased and persisted. I won't lie there were moments where I just got tired of his cockiness, a girl can only take so much.
What I'm really looking forward to now is Haven and Trevor's story. I think on an emotional level that one will be more intense and will make up for the missing emotional connection I had with this book.
Still, hockey, bit of modeling and hot sex. That's enough to please me, a glowing 4 stars rating from me.
What I'm really looking forward to now is Haven and Trevor's story. I think on an emotional level that one will be more intense and will make up for the missing emotional connection I had with this book.
Still, hockey, bit of modeling and hot sex. That's enough to please me, a glowing 4 stars rating from me.
August 27, 2015
I’ve been wanting to read this series for a long time. The price of the books though are on the higher side and so I’ve held off reading them until I saw this book in the bargain section of my local bookstore. Melting the Ice started off really slowly for me. I thought that I might not finish it. I didn’t connect to either MC and I actually found the hero pretty annoying with his persistent behavior at first. He just wouldn't take no for an answer from Carolina.
However the book did eventually pick up and held my interest until the end. I would say that I liked it, however, I felt kind of disappointed with this author's writing after wanting to read this series for so long. I felt like it was lacking something—whether that be a certain chemistry or zing I’m not sure. I’m undecided if I will pick up another book in this series.
However the book did eventually pick up and held my interest until the end. I would say that I liked it, however, I felt kind of disappointed with this author's writing after wanting to read this series for so long. I felt like it was lacking something—whether that be a certain chemistry or zing I’m not sure. I’m undecided if I will pick up another book in this series.
June 11, 2018
Sports and Romance, what better combo is there? This book is typical, brother’s best friend and sister had a one night stand. To say there is some bad blood there is putting it lightly. Carolina cannot stand Drew. Drew is trying to turn a new leaf. Although Carolina doesn’t think the Owen can play a part in her super busy life. Carolina cannot get over the fact that Drew used to be a player all about sex, she has to learn that he has changed and that takes time. The sexual tension in this book is amazing. I loved the semi naughtiness of this book. And the great mix of sports and romance.
November 17, 2015
3-ish stars. Didn't care for the ending that suddenly stumbled to a halt. And I never got the warm and fuzzies for Carolina. I was a fan of the earlier bks in this series but I've struggled with the last few with couples that aren't all that interesting enough to care about.
June 8, 2015
3.5 stars, good but I wish the drama could be more thicker.
I loved how simple and real the tension in this book. Even though it feels like it needs more persuasion, I enjoyed this book.
Look forward to read more of this series!
I loved how simple and real the tension in this book. Even though it feels like it needs more persuasion, I enjoyed this book.
Look forward to read more of this series!
June 19, 2022
Reread August 2017
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