What do you think?
Rate this book
Vegas Crush #5
Smokeshow
The friend zone heats up fast in this friends-to-lovers, teammate's little sister, hockey love story for a cocky defenseman about to be sidelined by one seriously hot smokeshow. Too bad she's not interested in dating a hockey player and one hundred percent off-limits.
"Be "just friends" with a smokeshow like her? That's pretty much a p#cking impossible ask."
—Tyler Lockhardt, VEGAS CRUSH
I'm just over here minding my business playing hockey for the Crush when the SMOKESHOW of my dreams turns up and seriously rocks my world.
For real.
Beautiful, smart, and so incredibly sweet I cannot help myself from wanting to get to know her a whole lot better.
But it's not happening.
C*ck-blocked by her paranoid older brother (also my teammate) and her Feminazi sister, I've lost my game long before I ever had any.
It gets worse.
Zoya Kolochev has zero interest in dating hockey players and she is completely firm on that.
She would like to be my friend though. *facepalm*
I know I'm definitely not boyfriend material, but I don't think I'm very good friend material either.
But it's what she wants...so I guess I’ll have a new "friend" now.
A smokin' hot, legs-for-days, sexy, gorgeous SMOKESHOW for my new friend.
FML
**SMOKESHOW can be read as a complete standalone sports romance. Each book in the Vegas Crush series is about a different couple.
"Be "just friends" with a smokeshow like her? That's pretty much a p#cking impossible ask."
—Tyler Lockhardt, VEGAS CRUSH
I'm just over here minding my business playing hockey for the Crush when the SMOKESHOW of my dreams turns up and seriously rocks my world.
For real.
Beautiful, smart, and so incredibly sweet I cannot help myself from wanting to get to know her a whole lot better.
But it's not happening.
C*ck-blocked by her paranoid older brother (also my teammate) and her Feminazi sister, I've lost my game long before I ever had any.
It gets worse.
Zoya Kolochev has zero interest in dating hockey players and she is completely firm on that.
She would like to be my friend though. *facepalm*
I know I'm definitely not boyfriend material, but I don't think I'm very good friend material either.
But it's what she wants...so I guess I’ll have a new "friend" now.
A smokin' hot, legs-for-days, sexy, gorgeous SMOKESHOW for my new friend.
FML
**SMOKESHOW can be read as a complete standalone sports romance. Each book in the Vegas Crush series is about a different couple.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
241 people are currently reading
2171 people want to read
About the author
Raine Miller
56 books9,527 followersRaine Miller has been reading romance novels since she picked up that first Barbara Cartland book at the tender age of thirteen. And it's a safe bet she'll never stop, because now she writes them too! Granted Raine's stories are edgy enough to turn Ms. Cartland in her grave, but to her way of thinking, a hot, sexy hero never goes out of fashion. A former teacher, she's now writing sexy romance stories full time. She has a handsome prince of a husband, two brilliant sons, and two bouncy Italian Greyhounds to pull her back into the real world if the writing takes her too far away. Her sons know she likes to write stories, but gratefully have never asked to read any, thank God! Raine loves to hear from readers and to chat about the characters in her books. You can contact her at raine_miller@ymail.com or visit www.RaineMiller.com to sign up for updates and her newsletter with links to upcoming books. Join us on Facebook at the Raine Miller Romance Readers group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/raine...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 19, 2020
This story made me happy. It was a 4 star #swoonfest from beginning to end.
#FunFact: The only other full-length novel I have read by this author was Puck Money and I liked it so much that I download the beginning of the series to binge read. That was back in March of this year and well … the world set itself on fire and I forgot *shrug* But then Smokeshow came across my emails and I was likeyes, please!!. I still haven’t been able to go back to the beginning, but October has #bingereading written all over it!!
Let’s talk about Smokeshow: A Hockey Love Story for a minute. Joy . That’s the single most word that ran thru my head while I was reading. Joy . The relationship development between Zoya and Tyler was a thing of beauty. It felt natural and real. The growth of both Zoya and Tyler as individuals folded into the story flawlessly. Even though I saw the family conflict coming a mile away and also how it played out, it didn’t matter because it’s the only conflict that wouldn’t seem ridiculous for these two so I loved it LOL There’s a plot point in the story I don’t want to give details about but I wasn’t fan because I don’t understand its purpose. I didn’t see it as an enhancement. I saw it as drama for drama’s sake and #twitchy so I can’t really give the story the 5 star rating I desperately want to give it *shrug* I will say that to counter that plot point was a plot point you don’t see happening every day and it was refreshing that the author wrote it the way she did. It made sense to me even though I was rooting for something else to happen, so props for that! If you’ve read the book, then all this vagueness shouldn’t be vague at all, but if you haven’t, I hope it intrigues you enough to find out what the heck I’m talking about because, joy .
Available NOW! Grab your copy today!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Yk0JB3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/34iUhhM
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3iYSulT
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/smokeshowAU
#FunFact: The only other full-length novel I have read by this author was Puck Money and I liked it so much that I download the beginning of the series to binge read. That was back in March of this year and well … the world set itself on fire and I forgot *shrug* But then Smokeshow came across my emails and I was likeyes, please!!. I still haven’t been able to go back to the beginning, but October has #bingereading written all over it!!
Let’s talk about Smokeshow: A Hockey Love Story for a minute. Joy . That’s the single most word that ran thru my head while I was reading. Joy . The relationship development between Zoya and Tyler was a thing of beauty. It felt natural and real. The growth of both Zoya and Tyler as individuals folded into the story flawlessly. Even though I saw the family conflict coming a mile away and also how it played out, it didn’t matter because it’s the only conflict that wouldn’t seem ridiculous for these two so I loved it LOL There’s a plot point in the story I don’t want to give details about but I wasn’t fan because I don’t understand its purpose. I didn’t see it as an enhancement. I saw it as drama for drama’s sake and #twitchy so I can’t really give the story the 5 star rating I desperately want to give it *shrug* I will say that to counter that plot point was a plot point you don’t see happening every day and it was refreshing that the author wrote it the way she did. It made sense to me even though I was rooting for something else to happen, so props for that! If you’ve read the book, then all this vagueness shouldn’t be vague at all, but if you haven’t, I hope it intrigues you enough to find out what the heck I’m talking about because, joy .
“I Love you, yesterday, today, and tomorrow, my prince. My Prince Lockhardt”
And they lived happily ever after …
Available NOW! Grab your copy today!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Yk0JB3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/34iUhhM
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3iYSulT
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/smokeshowAU
September 18, 2020
I always thought that nothing can top my favorite book in this series, Red Rocket, but alas I was wrong. Smokeshow has blown me away with it's perfect mix of a touching, thought-provoking and highly entertaining sports romance. Reading this book felt like experiencing an exhilarating joyride. Raine Miller has truly found the magic formula to display her passion for hockey and her love for bad boys with gentle hearts and feisty heroines. I'm absolutely besotted with this amazing book. Despite of its general lightheartedness it also covered some heavier, sensitive topics that moved me to tears and which were handled very delicately by this incredibly talented and versatile author. I simply can't get enough of her writing!
If you've read the previous installments in this series than you know that Tyler Lockhardt is a talented defence player for the Vegas Crush and a cocky womanizer and notorious party animal. He is always up for some fun and mischief - but behind the easy-going, flirtatious facade hides a damaged and insecure man who doubts his own worth. Tyler doesn't share his personal feelings with anyone, not even with his best friend and teammate Viktor. He is not looking for anything serious because he knows that he is far away from being boyfriend material. Now imagine his surprise when the woman of his dreams, a true knockout, suddenly shows up at a team event. Zoya is gorgeous, smart and has legs for days - but she is also Georg Kolochev's little baby sister and therefore off limits. Tyler is intrigued by the Russian beauty from the moment they met but Zoya doesn't want to date a hockey player - she offers him her friendship instead. Can this deal work out between them or will it go up in smoke?
I've adored Tyler from the moment Raine showed us all facettes of his personality. I didn't expect to find such vulnerability behind this character. He had a really tough childhood growing up in South Boston. Despite these dire circumstances Tyler became a decent guy who managed to make a successful career as a professional athlete. He never talked about his past - until he met Zoya. She made it easy for him to open up and share. She got to see the real him - a kind, generous, caring and hard-working man worthy of her heart.
Zoya, who is a few years younger than Tyler, is very mature, responsible, intelligent and intuitive. She came to Las Vegas to go to university under the watchful eyes of her overprotective brother. Her parents and her older siblings still treated her like a child although she was an adult. I admired that she didn't let them walk all over her. I was so thankful that Zoya offered her friendship to Tyler and subsequently her love and affection since he never knew what these felt like before. She made him forget his past and focus on the present. I'm not surprised that Tyler fell fast and hard for this remarkable woman. Their chemistry was sizzling hot and they complemented each other perfectly.
I could seriously gush about this fantastic story for hours! Please, do yourself a huge favor and one-click this must-read and let Raine Miller put you under her spell. I promise, that this great book is worth your time and money! I'm therefore shelfing this one as a top favorite of 2020 and give Smokeshow 5 well deserved pucks/stars!
If you've read the previous installments in this series than you know that Tyler Lockhardt is a talented defence player for the Vegas Crush and a cocky womanizer and notorious party animal. He is always up for some fun and mischief - but behind the easy-going, flirtatious facade hides a damaged and insecure man who doubts his own worth. Tyler doesn't share his personal feelings with anyone, not even with his best friend and teammate Viktor. He is not looking for anything serious because he knows that he is far away from being boyfriend material. Now imagine his surprise when the woman of his dreams, a true knockout, suddenly shows up at a team event. Zoya is gorgeous, smart and has legs for days - but she is also Georg Kolochev's little baby sister and therefore off limits. Tyler is intrigued by the Russian beauty from the moment they met but Zoya doesn't want to date a hockey player - she offers him her friendship instead. Can this deal work out between them or will it go up in smoke?
I've adored Tyler from the moment Raine showed us all facettes of his personality. I didn't expect to find such vulnerability behind this character. He had a really tough childhood growing up in South Boston. Despite these dire circumstances Tyler became a decent guy who managed to make a successful career as a professional athlete. He never talked about his past - until he met Zoya. She made it easy for him to open up and share. She got to see the real him - a kind, generous, caring and hard-working man worthy of her heart.
Zoya, who is a few years younger than Tyler, is very mature, responsible, intelligent and intuitive. She came to Las Vegas to go to university under the watchful eyes of her overprotective brother. Her parents and her older siblings still treated her like a child although she was an adult. I admired that she didn't let them walk all over her. I was so thankful that Zoya offered her friendship to Tyler and subsequently her love and affection since he never knew what these felt like before. She made him forget his past and focus on the present. I'm not surprised that Tyler fell fast and hard for this remarkable woman. Their chemistry was sizzling hot and they complemented each other perfectly.
I could seriously gush about this fantastic story for hours! Please, do yourself a huge favor and one-click this must-read and let Raine Miller put you under her spell. I promise, that this great book is worth your time and money! I'm therefore shelfing this one as a top favorite of 2020 and give Smokeshow 5 well deserved pucks/stars!
September 20, 2020
OMG! I had absolute hero worship for Tyler Lockhardt in this totally addictive book! I thought I was in for a fun and mischievous ride with Tyler’s happy-go-lucky, life-of-the-party reputation, but in Smokeshow, it doesn’t take long for us to peel back all of his beautiful layers, while falling in love with Zoya. I was not prepared to swoon and feel all the feels with this story as much as I did, but as always, Raine Miller ALWAYS gives me what I crave with reading romance.
It was IMPOSSIBLE not to want Tyler and Zoya to find their way to each other. Both were such endearing characters individually, but together, their chemistry vibrated off the pages....not just the sexy times, but their quiet moments together too. I just found myself smiling while reading this book so many times.
From making Statistics sound sexy to feeling the tenuous pulse of a Stanley Cup Finals game, Ms. Miller’s writing puts you in the Vegas Crush world with an amazing cast of characters. Smokeshow is the 5th book in the Vegas Crush series, but can absolute read as a stand-alone. Although...I highly recommend EVERY BOOK IN THE SERIES!!!
It was IMPOSSIBLE not to want Tyler and Zoya to find their way to each other. Both were such endearing characters individually, but together, their chemistry vibrated off the pages....not just the sexy times, but their quiet moments together too. I just found myself smiling while reading this book so many times.
From making Statistics sound sexy to feeling the tenuous pulse of a Stanley Cup Finals game, Ms. Miller’s writing puts you in the Vegas Crush world with an amazing cast of characters. Smokeshow is the 5th book in the Vegas Crush series, but can absolute read as a stand-alone. Although...I highly recommend EVERY BOOK IN THE SERIES!!!
September 18, 2020
Oh my heart, I've just finished reading one of the sweetest, swooniest and most beautifully written friends to lovers/hockey romance books ever!!! I thought that nothing could top Red Rocket, my favorite one in the Vegas Crush series, but I was totally wrong. Having read and loved all the previous books in this highly addictive series, I can say that Smokeshow is definitely the most emotional among them. It totally took me by surprise. I never expected that the story of Crush's defenseman and notorious womanizer Tyler would make me cry so much! If you haven't been a fan of him before, then you will most definitely turn into a die hard fan now.
Tyler Lockhardt has watched his teammates being struck by love one after the other. Now he's one of the last single men standing and has sworn to never fall in love. But his plans are all abandoned and forgotten the moment he meets the woman of his dreams, Zoya Kolochev. Too bad she's his teammates little sister and has no interest in dating a hockey player. All sweet and compassionate Zoya can offer him is friendship. But how can he stay friends with a Smokeshow like her when she's the only person he wants to share all his secrets with? The more they get to know each other, the harder it gets to ignore their growing feelings. Will Zoya give into Tyler's advances or will her overprotective brother Georg and uber feminist sister Irina get between them?
All I knew about Tyler Lockhardt was that he's a cocky guy who only cares about hockey, booze and girls. Doesn't really make him a dreamboat at first sight, right? But boy was I wrong! Tyler was so much more than meets the eye. Deep down he was a good-hearted, vulnerable guy from the South who had a very sad childhood that made him grow up way faster than he should. But most of all, it made him insecure and not believe in love. Once I learned the whole truth about him I was brokenhearted. I'm so glad that he found such a loving, compassionate and sweet woman like Zoya. He deserved happiness like nobody else! There are many reasons why I irrevocably fell in love with him, but revealing a major one would spoil a very important plot twist, so you need to read this book to find out!
Zoya Kolochev was beautiful inside and outside. She grew up very sheltered by her family who treated her like a baby and only allowed her to come from Saint Petersburg, Russia to Las Vegas in order to study at the university. Despite being only nineteen she was wise beyond her age and very perceptive. I loved how she was always there for Tyler, encouraging him and believing in him, even when he questioned himself. With her by his side Ty felt complete and understood. I loved their amazing chemistry and deep connection! They constantly made me swoon.
I'm seriously in awe of Raine Miller. This woman is such a versatile and incredibly talented author. She is and will always be in a league of her own. Not many authors are able to reach the deepest parts of my heart and soul with their words, but she sure always does! With Smokeshow she has delivered another highly entertaining, sweet and sexy story with an epic epilogue that goes straight to my top favorite reads shelf of 2020. Do yourself a favor and one-click this gem now! 5 stars
Tyler Lockhardt has watched his teammates being struck by love one after the other. Now he's one of the last single men standing and has sworn to never fall in love. But his plans are all abandoned and forgotten the moment he meets the woman of his dreams, Zoya Kolochev. Too bad she's his teammates little sister and has no interest in dating a hockey player. All sweet and compassionate Zoya can offer him is friendship. But how can he stay friends with a Smokeshow like her when she's the only person he wants to share all his secrets with? The more they get to know each other, the harder it gets to ignore their growing feelings. Will Zoya give into Tyler's advances or will her overprotective brother Georg and uber feminist sister Irina get between them?
All I knew about Tyler Lockhardt was that he's a cocky guy who only cares about hockey, booze and girls. Doesn't really make him a dreamboat at first sight, right? But boy was I wrong! Tyler was so much more than meets the eye. Deep down he was a good-hearted, vulnerable guy from the South who had a very sad childhood that made him grow up way faster than he should. But most of all, it made him insecure and not believe in love. Once I learned the whole truth about him I was brokenhearted. I'm so glad that he found such a loving, compassionate and sweet woman like Zoya. He deserved happiness like nobody else! There are many reasons why I irrevocably fell in love with him, but revealing a major one would spoil a very important plot twist, so you need to read this book to find out!
Zoya Kolochev was beautiful inside and outside. She grew up very sheltered by her family who treated her like a baby and only allowed her to come from Saint Petersburg, Russia to Las Vegas in order to study at the university. Despite being only nineteen she was wise beyond her age and very perceptive. I loved how she was always there for Tyler, encouraging him and believing in him, even when he questioned himself. With her by his side Ty felt complete and understood. I loved their amazing chemistry and deep connection! They constantly made me swoon.
I'm seriously in awe of Raine Miller. This woman is such a versatile and incredibly talented author. She is and will always be in a league of her own. Not many authors are able to reach the deepest parts of my heart and soul with their words, but she sure always does! With Smokeshow she has delivered another highly entertaining, sweet and sexy story with an epic epilogue that goes straight to my top favorite reads shelf of 2020. Do yourself a favor and one-click this gem now! 5 stars
September 17, 2020
I need to start off by saying that this entire Vegas Crush series is just delightful. I had yet another good time getting to know Tyler a bit better and the smokeshow he finds in Zoya. Sure there are complications in the fact that in addition to Zoya wanting zero to do with any hockey player, her brother Georg (and teammate of Tyler) might have something to say about a relationship that might happen between them. But with any great romance, you try your best to find a way to overcome any obstacle and hold on tight to the person of your dreams. And I had my fingers crossed that would happen for these two selfless souls.
Tyler as the quintessential player has a heart of gold. Something no one could have imagined. And I loved that he only revealed his softer side with Zoya, even when she was hell bent on staying far away from him. But their private tender moments when Tyler could unburden himself with not only his painful past but his suddenly intense present were just beautiful. In addition, Zoya's need for help with her college studies gave Tyler a way to keep their friendship going as unexpected as that was. It was sweet how they could lean on the other, trying hard not to let those platonic feelings became much more than either one dared hoped for.
With Georg, Pam, and the rest of the Crush crew who we've met before in prior books, Tyler and Zoya find both the courage and the eventual support to show the world that despite reservations from most, they belong together. Theirs is not an easy road with many in their way trying to sabotage just even the thought of getting together. But the moxie both possess made any obstacle less daunting. And it was a sincere pleasure getting to watch as Tyler and Zoya fall hard and never look back.
When looking for a true romantic book where you'll get that HEA you crave, Vegas Crush is for you. Smokeshow like it's predecessors is an easy read with wonderful characters and a love that is undeniable.
4 solid stars!!
Tyler as the quintessential player has a heart of gold. Something no one could have imagined. And I loved that he only revealed his softer side with Zoya, even when she was hell bent on staying far away from him. But their private tender moments when Tyler could unburden himself with not only his painful past but his suddenly intense present were just beautiful. In addition, Zoya's need for help with her college studies gave Tyler a way to keep their friendship going as unexpected as that was. It was sweet how they could lean on the other, trying hard not to let those platonic feelings became much more than either one dared hoped for.
With Georg, Pam, and the rest of the Crush crew who we've met before in prior books, Tyler and Zoya find both the courage and the eventual support to show the world that despite reservations from most, they belong together. Theirs is not an easy road with many in their way trying to sabotage just even the thought of getting together. But the moxie both possess made any obstacle less daunting. And it was a sincere pleasure getting to watch as Tyler and Zoya fall hard and never look back.
When looking for a true romantic book where you'll get that HEA you crave, Vegas Crush is for you. Smokeshow like it's predecessors is an easy read with wonderful characters and a love that is undeniable.
4 solid stars!!
September 18, 2020
You don’t have to be a hockey fan to enjoy this romance. Tyler and Zoya are a great couple. They are young, hot, and perfectly matched. And even though they have had totally different upbringings, they both cherish family and those relationships. I feel like that was the basis for their friendship turned relationship. Smokeshow by Raine Miller is a total stand alone in the Vegas Crush series but we get to see some of our favorites from past books and other series'. It’s a quick read with an awesome storyline that is sure to make you smile in the end.
Watching their journey from friends to lovers made me smile. Zoya is such a beautiful person, inside and out, and she was able to see past her first impression of the wild hockey player and really get to know what is inside Tyler’s heart. I give Zoya kudos for the respect she shows her parents, even though they were on totally different levels and she wasn’t being heard or valued as a person. Even through being treated like an incapable child, she still remained respectful, even though I’m sure she just wanted to runaway and scream.
At times, this book was heart-breaking. Tyler had a rough childhood and had to deal with feelings of unacceptance. Even still, he remained loyal to his family and grew as a man when his family needed him. He stepped up to the plate, did his best for his siblings, and it was so admirable. Knowing how hard Tyler was working to provide for his family and seeing how he was taken advantage of and how other people still gave him no credit, hurt me. Zoya though, she saw the real Tyler. She got past the façade of the playboy hockey player and got past her preconceived notions that had them all in the same basket, and she listened. I loved how she opened her heart and let him in.
So, I can’t give away the ending but that fairy tale epilogue was absolutely magical. I’ve never wanted to visit Russia until reading it described so perfectly by the queen herself, Raine Miller <3
Watching their journey from friends to lovers made me smile. Zoya is such a beautiful person, inside and out, and she was able to see past her first impression of the wild hockey player and really get to know what is inside Tyler’s heart. I give Zoya kudos for the respect she shows her parents, even though they were on totally different levels and she wasn’t being heard or valued as a person. Even through being treated like an incapable child, she still remained respectful, even though I’m sure she just wanted to runaway and scream.
At times, this book was heart-breaking. Tyler had a rough childhood and had to deal with feelings of unacceptance. Even still, he remained loyal to his family and grew as a man when his family needed him. He stepped up to the plate, did his best for his siblings, and it was so admirable. Knowing how hard Tyler was working to provide for his family and seeing how he was taken advantage of and how other people still gave him no credit, hurt me. Zoya though, she saw the real Tyler. She got past the façade of the playboy hockey player and got past her preconceived notions that had them all in the same basket, and she listened. I loved how she opened her heart and let him in.
So, I can’t give away the ending but that fairy tale epilogue was absolutely magical. I’ve never wanted to visit Russia until reading it described so perfectly by the queen herself, Raine Miller <3
September 20, 2020
4 1/2 stars Tyler is so much more then a manwhore hockey player that he shows to the world. He has depth and character that he is afraid to show the world, until he meets his smokeshow Zoya. She brings out the softer side of him and he can talk to about the stress that is his personal life. Friend zoned as she doesn't date hockey players, he will do his best to make her his. Zoya and Tyler work hard to be the other person other half as they fall in love. Plot twist that you don't see coming, make it a fast paced read. Getting to see past couples and how their lives have progressed a huge bonus for any reader of the Vegas Crush series.
~Alex💜
~Alex💜
September 23, 2020
Who would have thought that Tyler the playboy, the Puck Bunny looking for sex, would have a change of heart!
I could hear Zoya's accent in my head as I read, loved it and when I read Irina hers changed too. Lets talk about accents here for a second OK. Tyler his southie accent from Boston. I had a neighbor once from Boston, we would have him talk till our ears fell off just to hear is accent. I have a thing for accents so when Tyler's would come out, swoon!!
Raine pulled at my heartstrings, like she really pulled them when it came to Tyler's past. We all know he is a play boy but he has a heart of gold as well.
Their relationship was kind of fast, started out as friends. Zoya growing up around hockey really didn't want anything to do with the sport. It's hard to do though being a sister of an NHL player who is very well known.
What seemed like forever for their friendship to turn into a relationship, when it finally happened oh boy did it happen! I liked how Zoya tried her best just to stay friends, yet her sister Irina was flat out doing her best to get Tyler. Lovely how things work out.
All that talk Tyler has done through every book in this series and here he is, blowing smoke!! Loved it, and if you read any of the books in this series and wonder about Tyler. Wonder no more!!
I could hear Zoya's accent in my head as I read, loved it and when I read Irina hers changed too. Lets talk about accents here for a second OK. Tyler his southie accent from Boston. I had a neighbor once from Boston, we would have him talk till our ears fell off just to hear is accent. I have a thing for accents so when Tyler's would come out, swoon!!
Raine pulled at my heartstrings, like she really pulled them when it came to Tyler's past. We all know he is a play boy but he has a heart of gold as well.
Their relationship was kind of fast, started out as friends. Zoya growing up around hockey really didn't want anything to do with the sport. It's hard to do though being a sister of an NHL player who is very well known.
What seemed like forever for their friendship to turn into a relationship, when it finally happened oh boy did it happen! I liked how Zoya tried her best just to stay friends, yet her sister Irina was flat out doing her best to get Tyler. Lovely how things work out.
All that talk Tyler has done through every book in this series and here he is, blowing smoke!! Loved it, and if you read any of the books in this series and wonder about Tyler. Wonder no more!!
September 22, 2020
I love this series! Each book makes me love these characters more and more. This is Tyler's story. Tyler throughout the series while everyone else was finding their love always vowed he was going to be a playboy bachelor. At a work function Tyler meets to girls he refers to as Smokeshows and they happen to be Georg's sisters who are here from Russia to study at the university. One is into him and the other can't seem to get away from him fast enough which intrigues him since he is tired of the easy lay and is looking for a chase. Zoya is in Vegas to study at University. She has grown up around hockey her whole life her dad is a coach, her brother Georg and cousin Boris play for the Vegas Crush that she is tired of it and wants nothing to do with the game or the players. When she meets Tyler she feels something she hasn't felt before but she is sticking to her no hockey players rule and tries to avoid him. A phone call from Tyler's past gives us a glimpse to how he grew up and why he is the way he is but it also brings Zoya into his life as he finds himself opening up to her and she finds out there is more to Tyler than hockey and women. Love Tyler and Zoya's story and the obstacles they had to go through. We are also introduced to a couple more characters on the team that makes me wonder if they are getting stories.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
October 1, 2020
5 Stars
As we return to the world of Las Vegas, and their beloved hockey team, Tyler Lockhardt is up to his usual bachelor lifestyle. When his life is upended due to his past rearing it’s ugly head, the person at his side during the phone call is a sexy siren. Zoya Kolochev is young, quiet and what Tyler would refer to as a “smokeshow”. Though he knows she should be off limits and is probably not his “type”, he cannot resist imagine her in his arms and in his bed. Of course she has a single focus, her education at an American university, and has no time for men, certainly not hockey players. What follows is a friendship built on respect, concern, humor and a touch of lust, despite their differences. That friendship grows into so much more neither one can deny how they feel and they must fight for what they need and want together. This is a heartwarming, sexy and sweet tale of friends to soulmates that will keep you hooked from moment one.
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
As we return to the world of Las Vegas, and their beloved hockey team, Tyler Lockhardt is up to his usual bachelor lifestyle. When his life is upended due to his past rearing it’s ugly head, the person at his side during the phone call is a sexy siren. Zoya Kolochev is young, quiet and what Tyler would refer to as a “smokeshow”. Though he knows she should be off limits and is probably not his “type”, he cannot resist imagine her in his arms and in his bed. Of course she has a single focus, her education at an American university, and has no time for men, certainly not hockey players. What follows is a friendship built on respect, concern, humor and a touch of lust, despite their differences. That friendship grows into so much more neither one can deny how they feel and they must fight for what they need and want together. This is a heartwarming, sexy and sweet tale of friends to soulmates that will keep you hooked from moment one.
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
September 19, 2020
Tyler is a professional hockey player who appears confident in his skills on the ice and when it comes to women. The first time he saw his teammate and friend’s sister he knew that she was special but first he needs to not only convince her but her family as well.
Zoya may be attracted to Tyler but she has no intention of getting involved with him as he already has two strikes against him which are his reputation when it comes to women and the fact that he is a hockey player. They can be friends but that is all they can ever be however the more time that Zoya spends with him the more she realizes that he is so much more than his reputation and the more difficult it is becoming to keep her distance.
Tyler is the perfect mix of sweet and sexy while Zoya is fun and feisty and watching their relationship unfold was magical. There was no doubting that they were perfect together as they showed that anything worth having is worth fighting for.
Zoya may be attracted to Tyler but she has no intention of getting involved with him as he already has two strikes against him which are his reputation when it comes to women and the fact that he is a hockey player. They can be friends but that is all they can ever be however the more time that Zoya spends with him the more she realizes that he is so much more than his reputation and the more difficult it is becoming to keep her distance.
Tyler is the perfect mix of sweet and sexy while Zoya is fun and feisty and watching their relationship unfold was magical. There was no doubting that they were perfect together as they showed that anything worth having is worth fighting for.
September 23, 2020
4 1/2 stars
Reviewed for A Book Nerd, a Bookseller and a Bibliophile
Tyler is so much more then a manwhore hockey player that he shows to the world. He has depth and character that he is afraid to show the world, until he meets his smokeshow Zoya. She brings out the softer side of him and he can talk to about the stress that is his personal life. Friend zoned as she doesn't date hockey players, he will do his best to make her his. Zoya and Tyler work hard to be the other person other half as they fall in love. Plot twist that you don't see coming, make it a fast paced read. Getting to see past couples and how their lives have progressed a huge bonus for any reader of the Vegas Crush series.
Reviewed for A Book Nerd, a Bookseller and a Bibliophile
Tyler is so much more then a manwhore hockey player that he shows to the world. He has depth and character that he is afraid to show the world, until he meets his smokeshow Zoya. She brings out the softer side of him and he can talk to about the stress that is his personal life. Friend zoned as she doesn't date hockey players, he will do his best to make her his. Zoya and Tyler work hard to be the other person other half as they fall in love. Plot twist that you don't see coming, make it a fast paced read. Getting to see past couples and how their lives have progressed a huge bonus for any reader of the Vegas Crush series.
September 21, 2020
A bad boy from Boston hockey player hero. A forbidden sister of a Russian teammate heroine. She says she will never date a hockey player. He says he will never fall in love. Sounds like the best premise for a great romance! And Raine, writing as Brit DeMille, delivers another fantastic Vegas Crush hockey story. Tyler and Zoya’s story will have you sighing and cheering them to their happily ever after. There are even a couple returning characters from a different story you will love seeing again. The perfect story to read as this hockey season comes to a close. Don’t miss it!
September 23, 2020
Hockey hottie what more could you want!?!
Smokeshow changes eveything. Party boy toy Ty is the last person you would want for your daughter. Pump and dump was his middle name. Now it seems Ty has inherited responsibility, adopted a sense of respect, and fallen in love- go figure! While this is my second read in the series, I had no trouble keeping up. Hockey hotties and the women who tame them...aka Vegas Crush and their better halves. Be swept of your feet like a Disney princess!
Smokeshow changes eveything. Party boy toy Ty is the last person you would want for your daughter. Pump and dump was his middle name. Now it seems Ty has inherited responsibility, adopted a sense of respect, and fallen in love- go figure! While this is my second read in the series, I had no trouble keeping up. Hockey hotties and the women who tame them...aka Vegas Crush and their better halves. Be swept of your feet like a Disney princess!
September 22, 2020
I’m really enjoying this series! Zoya was strong and fought for her independence. I absolutely loved her. Tyler took some time to grow on me, but I loved their love. A great book!
September 30, 2020
I loved this book! I love a good hockey romance and this is one of the best I have read in a while. Tyler is hockey’s bad boy. Booze and women are his main focus behind hockey. Zoya is a good Russian daughter just wanting to focus on her studies and not be bothered by hockey. The two meet and form a friendship. This is a sweet reformed bad boy and good girl love story. I highly recommend this book!
October 11, 2020
I'm so so on this one. In past books I never really cared for Tyler, too much of a man-whore, only there to party for me. He didn't come off much better in this one, especially as he met Zoya and her sister and all he could think of was sleeping with both of them and not even learning they were Georg's sisters made him change his mindset.
I did like how Tyler stepped up with his siblings and even when he realized he was in over his head and let them go to a place they would thrive. But the romance between Tyler and Zoya ended up being really meh...to me. The one thing that really annoyed me was how Georg and Zoya's father acted towards her feelings to Tyler. Despite not being super into a relationship between the two, I didn't like how they acted towards them both.
I did like how Tyler stepped up with his siblings and even when he realized he was in over his head and let them go to a place they would thrive. But the romance between Tyler and Zoya ended up being really meh...to me. The one thing that really annoyed me was how Georg and Zoya's father acted towards her feelings to Tyler. Despite not being super into a relationship between the two, I didn't like how they acted towards them both.
September 18, 2020
Steer clear ladies because I am claiming Tyler Lockhardt as my new BBF! I was highly anticipating his story and hot damn that man stole my heart in this book!
If you looked up "party boy" or "womanizer", Tyler's picture would have appeared at the top of the search list for the past few years. At 25 years old, he is single, good looking, and burning up the ice with the rest of his Crush teammates seemingly without a care in the world. As it often happens, appearances are very deceiving and we finally get to find out what makes him tick in Smokeshow. Growing up poor in Southie gave him all the incentive he needed to seize the opportunity to play a game he loves while escaping the confines of his childhood home, and he is living his life to the fullest as far as he knows.
Zoya instantly captures his attention the first time he sees her, but it is made abundantly clear to him by Georg that his baby sister is way off limits. For her part, Zoya has not never really had a good experience with hockey players in Russia and has mostly been on the receiving end of crass and crude behavior. She certainly has no interest in continuing to be subjected to it now that she has finally been given permission to attend college in the US, so her surface attraction to Tyler is annoying at best and she is determined not to think about him. Her sister Irina has no reservations though and sets her sights on Ty as her next conquest.
When Zoya catches Tyler in an unguarded moment of conversation with a family member, she realizes there is more to this man than he lets on and extends her hand in friendship. It doesn't take long until she knows more about his life than even his closest teammates, and when his life is changed in a way he couldn't have anticipated after an away game in Boston, she is the first person he reaches out for help. Her commitment to keeping him firmly in the friend zone is in constant danger with the simmering attraction between them, but I loved that he learned to build a friendship with her as the slow burn built toward combustion.
Oh wait, did you think getting to their HEA was going to be easy? Oh puck no it is not! Tyler's life is thrown into barely controlled chaos off the ice, Irina is not taking a hint or the subtle no very easily, and when Georg realizes exactly how close Zoya and Tyler have become the proverbial poop hits the fan. Cue Daddy Kolochev inserting himself into the situation thanks to Georg's interference and, in turn, my blood pressure going way up as I saw red at her family's actions and comments. It's still severely irking me as I sit here and think about so let's talk about some of the seriously swoony things that came out of Tyler's mouth that I didn't know he was capable of instead.
"I want you in my life. You’re gorgeous , yes, but also caring and supportive and smart. You make me feel calmer, more steady. I’m so glad we’re friends. And I wouldn’t give that up for the world.”
"You are such a surprise to me, Zoya. A beautiful, wonderful, amazing surprise. I had no clue that anyone like you even existed in the world, let alone could be my friend. You came out of fuckin’ nowhere and into my life... and now I need you in it."
Yeah, feeling better now...
So go grab a copy of this book, find out how it all works out in the end, and be prepared to fall head over heels for Tyler and Zoya!
ARC received from author
If you looked up "party boy" or "womanizer", Tyler's picture would have appeared at the top of the search list for the past few years. At 25 years old, he is single, good looking, and burning up the ice with the rest of his Crush teammates seemingly without a care in the world. As it often happens, appearances are very deceiving and we finally get to find out what makes him tick in Smokeshow. Growing up poor in Southie gave him all the incentive he needed to seize the opportunity to play a game he loves while escaping the confines of his childhood home, and he is living his life to the fullest as far as he knows.
Zoya instantly captures his attention the first time he sees her, but it is made abundantly clear to him by Georg that his baby sister is way off limits. For her part, Zoya has not never really had a good experience with hockey players in Russia and has mostly been on the receiving end of crass and crude behavior. She certainly has no interest in continuing to be subjected to it now that she has finally been given permission to attend college in the US, so her surface attraction to Tyler is annoying at best and she is determined not to think about him. Her sister Irina has no reservations though and sets her sights on Ty as her next conquest.
When Zoya catches Tyler in an unguarded moment of conversation with a family member, she realizes there is more to this man than he lets on and extends her hand in friendship. It doesn't take long until she knows more about his life than even his closest teammates, and when his life is changed in a way he couldn't have anticipated after an away game in Boston, she is the first person he reaches out for help. Her commitment to keeping him firmly in the friend zone is in constant danger with the simmering attraction between them, but I loved that he learned to build a friendship with her as the slow burn built toward combustion.
Oh wait, did you think getting to their HEA was going to be easy? Oh puck no it is not! Tyler's life is thrown into barely controlled chaos off the ice, Irina is not taking a hint or the subtle no very easily, and when Georg realizes exactly how close Zoya and Tyler have become the proverbial poop hits the fan. Cue Daddy Kolochev inserting himself into the situation thanks to Georg's interference and, in turn, my blood pressure going way up as I saw red at her family's actions and comments. It's still severely irking me as I sit here and think about so let's talk about some of the seriously swoony things that came out of Tyler's mouth that I didn't know he was capable of instead.
"I want you in my life. You’re gorgeous , yes, but also caring and supportive and smart. You make me feel calmer, more steady. I’m so glad we’re friends. And I wouldn’t give that up for the world.”
"You are such a surprise to me, Zoya. A beautiful, wonderful, amazing surprise. I had no clue that anyone like you even existed in the world, let alone could be my friend. You came out of fuckin’ nowhere and into my life... and now I need you in it."
Yeah, feeling better now...
So go grab a copy of this book, find out how it all works out in the end, and be prepared to fall head over heels for Tyler and Zoya!
ARC received from author
September 28, 2020
I absolutely loved Smokeshow!! Wow!! This story is such a beautiful love story between two of the most unlikeliest of characters. Tyler Lockhardt, a defender for the Vegas Crush, with a playboy reputation who says he will never settle down with just one woman...because why would anyone want to do that when there are so many beautiful women out there. However, Tyler did not count on meeting the beautiful Zoya Kolochev, and yes, if you are a fan of this series, and if you aren't, you should be, then you will recognize that last name...as that of Georg Kolochev, another defender for the Vegas Crush, husband of Pam and best friend of Evan Kazmierowicz, Captain of the Vegas Crush, and older brother of Zoya. And now you know there will be fireworks!! Oh, and if that wasn't enough throw in another beautiful sister by the name of Irina Kolochev, who is a very free spirit and wants Tyler. Zoya is the exact opposite of Tyler. Where Tyler is the bad boy, life of the party, Zoya is the studious, good girl who has come from Russia to go to college. OMG!! These two are a perfect match!! Let me just say that I have never seen two people more perfect for each other, but yet, fight against their feelings, esp. Zoya, so hard and for so long, even after realizing they were head over heels in love with each other. But oh, what a beautiful tug-of-war it was to read.
Smokeshow will have you unable to set it down from the time you open up the book. This story really and truly delved into who Tyler is as a person, and let me just say that Tyler's story is not what one may believe it to be. Tyler's story broke my heart, but it also made me cheer him on and love him even more. Maybe he has reason for his loud, devil-may-care attitude? And Zoya...Wow!! I really and truly loved her character even though I wanted her to get it together a little sooner, but she was a breath of fresh air as a heroine. Oh, and I do have to say that Georg and the Kolochev family upset me for awhile with the way in which they were treating Tyler!! Ahhh...Pam...she is the absolute best and she continued to demonstrate that every girl...and guy...needs a Pam in their corner.
If you are looking for a romance story with lots of hockey action, witty dialogue, wonderful characters that you will love forever, and two little people who will melt your heart then Smokeshow is the book for you. Bravo, Raine Miller on yet another great installment in the Vegas Crush series. Can I just say that I am crossing my fingers for a Mikhail book or a Devon or even a Mikhail and Devon book next?!! Whatever is the next Vegas Crush book...I will take it! I love this series!!
Smokeshow will have you unable to set it down from the time you open up the book. This story really and truly delved into who Tyler is as a person, and let me just say that Tyler's story is not what one may believe it to be. Tyler's story broke my heart, but it also made me cheer him on and love him even more. Maybe he has reason for his loud, devil-may-care attitude? And Zoya...Wow!! I really and truly loved her character even though I wanted her to get it together a little sooner, but she was a breath of fresh air as a heroine. Oh, and I do have to say that Georg and the Kolochev family upset me for awhile with the way in which they were treating Tyler!! Ahhh...Pam...she is the absolute best and she continued to demonstrate that every girl...and guy...needs a Pam in their corner.
If you are looking for a romance story with lots of hockey action, witty dialogue, wonderful characters that you will love forever, and two little people who will melt your heart then Smokeshow is the book for you. Bravo, Raine Miller on yet another great installment in the Vegas Crush series. Can I just say that I am crossing my fingers for a Mikhail book or a Devon or even a Mikhail and Devon book next?!! Whatever is the next Vegas Crush book...I will take it! I love this series!!
September 19, 2020
Oh, my heart! Smokeshow was the perfect friends to lovers story, and just what I needed to read right now!! Tyler and Zoya stole my heart and Raine delivered an emotion filled tale that had my heart stretching tight right to the very last page.
My heart broke for Tyler many times throughout this book, and I was SO happy he found Zoya, who grounded him and calmed him and made him finally feel like he was really worth something. And Zoya, for only being nineteen, she was wiser than her years, an old soul in a gorgeous body. She was just as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside.
I have to say, I was not prepared for Tyler's story at all. In all the previous Crush books, he was the loud trash talking manHO who only cared about finding that next puck bunny to ride his "hockey stick" for the night. But Raine peels back the layers of what his life has been like since childhood, and all I wanted to do is wrap him up in love.
Zoya's life, on the other hand, has been one of privilege but she has been suffocated under the domineering thumb of her strict Russian father and now in Vegas her overbearing brother who knows all too well what the life of a hockey player entails. All she wants is for her family to not see her as the baby anymore and see that she does indeed have a good head on her shoulders and can figure out for herself what she wants in life.
Be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions while reading Smokeshow. I laughed and I cried, my heart broke and was put back together. I loved getting to see the gang all show up at various times, and I especially loved seeing how they all rally around Tyler when he needs them the most. AND I loved the little cameo we were gifted from another beloved couple from Raine's Blackstone Dynasty series.
Another amazing addition to the Vegas Crush series!!
My heart broke for Tyler many times throughout this book, and I was SO happy he found Zoya, who grounded him and calmed him and made him finally feel like he was really worth something. And Zoya, for only being nineteen, she was wiser than her years, an old soul in a gorgeous body. She was just as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside.
I have to say, I was not prepared for Tyler's story at all. In all the previous Crush books, he was the loud trash talking manHO who only cared about finding that next puck bunny to ride his "hockey stick" for the night. But Raine peels back the layers of what his life has been like since childhood, and all I wanted to do is wrap him up in love.
Zoya's life, on the other hand, has been one of privilege but she has been suffocated under the domineering thumb of her strict Russian father and now in Vegas her overbearing brother who knows all too well what the life of a hockey player entails. All she wants is for her family to not see her as the baby anymore and see that she does indeed have a good head on her shoulders and can figure out for herself what she wants in life.
Be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions while reading Smokeshow. I laughed and I cried, my heart broke and was put back together. I loved getting to see the gang all show up at various times, and I especially loved seeing how they all rally around Tyler when he needs them the most. AND I loved the little cameo we were gifted from another beloved couple from Raine's Blackstone Dynasty series.
Another amazing addition to the Vegas Crush series!!
September 17, 2020
Well just when you think you can not love another Hockey story by Raine Miller any more, she has done it again with Smokeshow!! This is Tyler and Zoya's story and oh what a story this is!! It's an emotional one so get ready!! These two are perfect together!!
If you love hockey you will certainly love this read but honestly it is so much more. Tyler and Zoya's adventures will melt your heart as it is about love, loyalty and the importance of family and fighting for it.
Tyler has always come across as the cocky Crush defenseman but underneath it all you will discover he has a heart of gold. His lastest quest to win over Zoya, Georg's beautiful younger sister (who came from Russia to study at University) proves to be an adventure of love that even surprises himself. He is out to woo his Smokeshow as he calls Zoya but she wants nothing to do with hockey players, only to be Tyler's "friend". Could these two get past the friend stage and through Georg (also his teammate) to discover love?? Let me just say you will want to find out what's in store for this dynamic duo!!
Tyler and Zoya's story will captivate you from page one as Raine's words are simply so magical!! She will have you believing that everyone deserves a fighting chance and that everyone can change especially when it comes to love. It is a heartwarming read that certainly should not be missed. Bravo once again Raine for an amazing read and making me fall in love with all your leading couples!!
If you love hockey you will certainly love this read but honestly it is so much more. Tyler and Zoya's adventures will melt your heart as it is about love, loyalty and the importance of family and fighting for it.
Tyler has always come across as the cocky Crush defenseman but underneath it all you will discover he has a heart of gold. His lastest quest to win over Zoya, Georg's beautiful younger sister (who came from Russia to study at University) proves to be an adventure of love that even surprises himself. He is out to woo his Smokeshow as he calls Zoya but she wants nothing to do with hockey players, only to be Tyler's "friend". Could these two get past the friend stage and through Georg (also his teammate) to discover love?? Let me just say you will want to find out what's in store for this dynamic duo!!
Tyler and Zoya's story will captivate you from page one as Raine's words are simply so magical!! She will have you believing that everyone deserves a fighting chance and that everyone can change especially when it comes to love. It is a heartwarming read that certainly should not be missed. Bravo once again Raine for an amazing read and making me fall in love with all your leading couples!!
September 23, 2020
Who would have thought that Tyler the playboy, the Puck Bunny looking for sex, would have a change of heart!
I could hear Zoya's accent in my head as I read, loved it and when I read Irina hers changed too. Lets talk about accents here for a second OK. Tyler his southie accent from Boston. I had a neighbor once from Boston, we would have him talk till our ears fell off just to hear is accent. I have a thing for accents so when Tyler's would come out, swoon!!
Raine pulled at my heartstrings, like she really pulled them when it came to Tyler's past. We all know he is a play boy but he has a heart of gold as well.
Their relationship was kind of fast, started out as friends. Zoya growing up around hockey really didn't want anything to do with the sport. It's hard to do though being a sister of an NHL player who is very well known.
What seemed like forever for their friendship to turn into a relationship, when it finally happened oh boy did it happen! I liked how Zoya tried her best just to stay friends, yet her sister Irina was flat out doing her best to get Tyler. Lovely how things work out.
All that talk Tyler has done through every book in this series and here he is, blowing smoke!! Loved it, and if you read any of the books in this series and wonder about Tyler. Wonder no more!!
I could hear Zoya's accent in my head as I read, loved it and when I read Irina hers changed too. Lets talk about accents here for a second OK. Tyler his southie accent from Boston. I had a neighbor once from Boston, we would have him talk till our ears fell off just to hear is accent. I have a thing for accents so when Tyler's would come out, swoon!!
Raine pulled at my heartstrings, like she really pulled them when it came to Tyler's past. We all know he is a play boy but he has a heart of gold as well.
Their relationship was kind of fast, started out as friends. Zoya growing up around hockey really didn't want anything to do with the sport. It's hard to do though being a sister of an NHL player who is very well known.
What seemed like forever for their friendship to turn into a relationship, when it finally happened oh boy did it happen! I liked how Zoya tried her best just to stay friends, yet her sister Irina was flat out doing her best to get Tyler. Lovely how things work out.
All that talk Tyler has done through every book in this series and here he is, blowing smoke!! Loved it, and if you read any of the books in this series and wonder about Tyler. Wonder no more!!
September 18, 2020
5 star Review Smokeshow (Vegas Crush #5) by Raine Miller writing as Brit DeMille
This is the fifth book in the series and can definitely be read as a stand alone, although all the books are so good I recommend you one click all of them, you won’t be disappointed.
Tyler Lockhardt, what a hot and sexy hockey player this man is. I think I may have a new book boyfriend, he really ticked the boxes for me and the woman that tamed him, Zoya Kolochev was his destiny.
I loved everything about Tyler and Zoya, both separately and together. I loved how feisty Zoya was and Tyler, there is so much more to him than just a hockey player, he made me swoon throughout this book. The fact that Zoya has no interest in dating a hockey player and wants to be just friends just added entertainment to this wonderful story.
Seeing familiar faces just added to my reading enjoyment. The banter and the chase as Tyler and Zoya dance around their feelings had me totally invested in the story that the author wove from the first to the last word.
These two are meant to be, teo halves of a whole and this my wellbe my favourite book in the series. I loved Smokeshow and am excited to see who is next in this awesome hockey series.
This is the fifth book in the series and can definitely be read as a stand alone, although all the books are so good I recommend you one click all of them, you won’t be disappointed.
Tyler Lockhardt, what a hot and sexy hockey player this man is. I think I may have a new book boyfriend, he really ticked the boxes for me and the woman that tamed him, Zoya Kolochev was his destiny.
I loved everything about Tyler and Zoya, both separately and together. I loved how feisty Zoya was and Tyler, there is so much more to him than just a hockey player, he made me swoon throughout this book. The fact that Zoya has no interest in dating a hockey player and wants to be just friends just added entertainment to this wonderful story.
Seeing familiar faces just added to my reading enjoyment. The banter and the chase as Tyler and Zoya dance around their feelings had me totally invested in the story that the author wove from the first to the last word.
These two are meant to be, teo halves of a whole and this my wellbe my favourite book in the series. I loved Smokeshow and am excited to see who is next in this awesome hockey series.
September 28, 2020
It has been exactly one week since I closed the covers of Smokeshow:A Hockey Romance. Every single day since, I have thought about this beautiful story. Tyler Lockhardt and Zoya Kolochev completely touched my soul with their passion and love for each other.
The title and subject matter of hockey are a bit deceiving. From those, one almost expects a light-hearted sports romance. This book had so much depth and emotion that it brought actual tears to my eyes at points. It was not at all what I expected based on the Tyler Lockhardt, I met in the previous books of this series.
Raine Miller, as Brit DeMille has simply elevated the genre of sports romance to include a depth of realism and feeling that is rarely found in this category. Smokeshow has turned out to be one of my favorite reading experiences of 2020. Ty and Zo are exactly what love looks like on every level.
Smokeshow is a book I will recommend to all. It is witty, smile inducing, tear rendering, and heart warming. The Vegas Crush Hockey Series had earned a space on my Favorites bookshelf. That is quite a feat for a non-hockey person like me. I have recently found myself following results and even watching a few NHL games hoping to see some of the action described on the ice.
Raine Miller as Brit DeMille is quite masterful in her writing of sports romance. I look forward to reading her next book.
The title and subject matter of hockey are a bit deceiving. From those, one almost expects a light-hearted sports romance. This book had so much depth and emotion that it brought actual tears to my eyes at points. It was not at all what I expected based on the Tyler Lockhardt, I met in the previous books of this series.
Raine Miller, as Brit DeMille has simply elevated the genre of sports romance to include a depth of realism and feeling that is rarely found in this category. Smokeshow has turned out to be one of my favorite reading experiences of 2020. Ty and Zo are exactly what love looks like on every level.
Smokeshow is a book I will recommend to all. It is witty, smile inducing, tear rendering, and heart warming. The Vegas Crush Hockey Series had earned a space on my Favorites bookshelf. That is quite a feat for a non-hockey person like me. I have recently found myself following results and even watching a few NHL games hoping to see some of the action described on the ice.
Raine Miller as Brit DeMille is quite masterful in her writing of sports romance. I look forward to reading her next book.
September 21, 2020
This was a very unexpected sports/ hockey love story. Many emotional events happen thru out. This wasn't the typical hot alpha jock. Tyler is that no worries but he is so much mire. So when Zoya meets Tyler that is what she thinks. The typical hockey jock like her brother use to be. After a quiet moment they share together just talking opening up. Zoya sees Tyler for so much more. This moment leads to their friendship someone to talk to. Be just friends with a smokeshow like her all most impossible. Tyler has never had before. They find out that they both want so much more. Very emotional from friends to lovers. There are obstacles in the way as over protective family and some family that do not care at all. In this story you will read about the many sides of Tyler and Zoya. The nice and the naughty. They will have to be strong and untied to prove their love is forever. Finding their HEA for more then just them. Finding new families. I couldn't put their emotional love story down. LOVE TYLER and ZOYA
September 22, 2020
First I will say that I am a big big fan of the Vegas Crush players we have already been introduced to so it was no surprise that I fell immediately for Tyler Lockhardt. At first, he comes across as a bit of a bad boy (well a lot of a bad boy) but when he meets Zoya Kolochev he finds himself able to open up about his life and we get to see the real Tyler behind all the bad boy headlines. Now as for Zoya Kolochev sister of Gorgeous Georg all I can say is what's not to like? She is adorable and gorgeous and off-limits to Tyler....until she isn't. As we watch these two dance around each other playing the friendship game we know that they will eventually fall for each other. After more than a few dramas and family interference, it's on, and is it!!! The sizzle factor doesn't disappoint. Zoya's sister Irina is more than entertaining and the addition of characters we have already meet makes Smokeshow a really enjoyable read. It's more about romance than hockey and who can resist a reformed bad boy who loses his heart to a beautiful girl? Not me…..big big sigh
September 17, 2020
4
I loved the push and pull of this romance! Tyler is that bad boy hockey player, that really has a good heart and when it comes to stepping and growing up, he does in a heartbeat when needed.
Zoya tries to resist anything hockey, but when it comes to true love, fate has other plans and I adored that she tried to stay true to herself, but in the end realizes that her and Tyler are meant to be.
I didn’t like that there are Russian phrases and words that I couldn’t understand and they were unable to be translated without digging hard enough on Google; it took away from the story a bit and I would lose focus of the moment. There were hints as to what some of it was, and certain things were explained, but I still felt like I needed a translator throughout the book.
I would still recommend this HEA though.
Russian, Hockey Bad Boy, student, teammate’s sister
I loved the push and pull of this romance! Tyler is that bad boy hockey player, that really has a good heart and when it comes to stepping and growing up, he does in a heartbeat when needed.
Zoya tries to resist anything hockey, but when it comes to true love, fate has other plans and I adored that she tried to stay true to herself, but in the end realizes that her and Tyler are meant to be.
I didn’t like that there are Russian phrases and words that I couldn’t understand and they were unable to be translated without digging hard enough on Google; it took away from the story a bit and I would lose focus of the moment. There were hints as to what some of it was, and certain things were explained, but I still felt like I needed a translator throughout the book.
I would still recommend this HEA though.
Russian, Hockey Bad Boy, student, teammate’s sister
September 20, 2020
This series just keeps getting better. I can’t believe this is book 5 in the Vegas Crush hockey series already. This has been a fun ride getting to know the players and being a part of them finding the loves of their lives. Full disclosure, friends to lovers are one of my favorite tropes and Tyler and Zoya did not disappoint.
Nothing like being “Friend Zoned” against your will which is what Zoya relegated poor Tyler to. Added that dynamic is Zoya absolutely swears against getting involved with hockey players and Tyler is her fearsome brother Georg. Tyler has a lot of convincing to do to get Zoya warmed up to the idea and THEN convincing Georg and the rest of the Vegas Crush team.
This book is fun, it’s, sweet, romantic and at this point the Vegas Crush team are starting to feel like family. Each book lets you visit the couples from previous books and gives you a sneak peek at the other players that will be featured in upcoming books. I love the series and this latest book.
Nothing like being “Friend Zoned” against your will which is what Zoya relegated poor Tyler to. Added that dynamic is Zoya absolutely swears against getting involved with hockey players and Tyler is her fearsome brother Georg. Tyler has a lot of convincing to do to get Zoya warmed up to the idea and THEN convincing Georg and the rest of the Vegas Crush team.
This book is fun, it’s, sweet, romantic and at this point the Vegas Crush team are starting to feel like family. Each book lets you visit the couples from previous books and gives you a sneak peek at the other players that will be featured in upcoming books. I love the series and this latest book.
September 21, 2020
Tyler meets Zoya and begins to wonder how she can change his life so fast. He is a bad boy hockey player and she seems to calm him. Zoya is only 19-years-old and has no interest in getting to know him. She is there for an education and wants nothing to do with any hockey player, let alone one known as a womanizer. She agrees to be his friend and nothing more. Tyler knows he wants more, but will take what he can get. When other things in his life start to spiral out of control, Zoya offers him support. It was interesting to see Zoya grow more confident in herself. It was too bad her family tried to control her life the way they did. I felt Georg should have supported her and not tattled the way he did. Her sister was a piece of work. It was nice to see Tyler mature and do the right thing at the right moments. Their ending was perfect for them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews