The Playmaker

Fire on Ice #2

by Dakota Madison, Karen Mueller Bryson

Kian Kavanagh, Mr. Fire on Ice, has just been called up to play hockey for the NHL's new expansion team in Seattle. Finally playing in the NHL is a dream come true...except for one thing. Kian has to leave Northern Arizona and the love of his life, Taylor Thompson, to pursue his dream.

Taylor Thompson thinks she's got life figured out. She'll finish her final semester of college then move to Seattle to attend graduate school and be with her man. Until one fateful night when Taylor's world is complete shattered and everything she's ever wanted--everything she's ever hoped for--is called into question.

Will Kian's love be enough to help put Taylor's shattered world back together again or will tragedy tear them apart?

This new adult romance contains mature language, violence and content intended for adult readers (18+).

Genres: Sports, Romance, Hockey, Sports Romance, New Adult, Contemporary, College

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 5, 2013

About the author

USA TODAY Bestselling author Dakota Madison is known for writing new adult, love in midlife, and contemporary romance with a little spice and lots of heart. Dakota is a winner of the prestigious RONE Award for Excellence in the Indie and Small Publishing Industry. When she's not at her computer creating spicy stories Dakota likes to spend time with her husband and their bloodhounds. Dakota also writes under the pen names SAVANNAH YOUNG, SIERRA AVALON and REN MONTERREY.

Reviews

[Karla · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Solid Stars! A very intense second book!

Taylor and Kian are a great couple, and while I enjoyed the first book, this one showed the author's growth. Somewhere along the line, she found her footing, and wrote a very compelling book! It's not all sunshine and roses for this couple, there's a horrific event that takes place in this book Warning: there is a rape scene, it's not overly graphic, but detailed enough that it could be upsetting to some readers., but their love is strong, and they get their happily ever after! Loved the epilouge.

[Tickled Pink for Book Ink · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say? I’m a sucker for the sweet stuff. Taylor and Kian are almost sickly sweet and I want more of it!
THE PLAYMAKER is Taylor and Kian’s story continued. Kian is now playing in the NHL for Seattle while Taylor is in Arizona finishing up her undergraduate degree and making plans to pursue her PhD. The distance is proving to be too much for them to handle. Kian cannot overcome the need to protect Taylor and Taylor has only really felt safe with Kian near. The looming threat against Taylor makes their situation more unbearable and then the threat becomes reality. Now broken once more, Taylor has to figure out how to pull the pieces back together and decide whether or not to let Kian be there to help.
Taylor cannot seem to catch a break. This girl has been to hell and back - and then hell and back again. Kian seems too perfect and never messes up, which is obviously a little far-fetched, but if anyone deserves her prince charming it’s Taylor. The trauma Taylor endures is gut wrenching and life-changing.
“Perhaps this time I was damaged beyond repair. I wasn’t sure Kian knew what he was actually getting when he said he loved me. I know he loved the Taylor I once was. I had no idea what he’d think about the fractured desolate Taylor I had become.”
I felt her pain and although the situation is horrid, Dakota Madison artfully describes the attack to convey the emotional drama. Kian wants to fix her and protect her, but I loved that Taylor works to fix herself. She becomes the ultimate heroine in this sweet yet heartbreaking new adult romance. I wanted to scream a “Hells yeah!” for Taylor. This is a truly a story about survival, becoming a better you out of pain and letting yourself trust love will be there for you no matter what.
THE PLAYMAKER is written in a way that fully immerses the reader in the deeply distressing circumstances Taylor is experiencing while staying true to the new adult genre style I’ve come to expect. I feel is it perfectly written for the target audience. I was truly affected by the story and still got the heat and romance, which in my opinion, is a great literary combo. As with FIRE ON ICE, I had a hard time putting down this sequel. Dakota Madison fully delivers on part two of Kian and Taylor’s story. I seriously suggest you read FIRE ON ICE first if THE PLAYMAKER sounds like something you’d like to read. I can’t see fully understanding the characters in THE PLAYMAKER without reading the first novel in the series, but you won’t regret it.

✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.

✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews

[Sultan * Baby Mama Smut-a-teer* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow… where to start with this review. I really got lost in this book. You can see the author’s growth from the first book to this one. The next chapter in Kian and Taylor’s love story comes with a traumatic event that leaves Taylor broken and lost in herself. I had a very hard time reading some parts of this book, because they made me feel so helpless to help. That’s how you know the author has done it, when you keep shouting at your kindle and dissolving into a sobbing mess at 2 am. I could see it, in my minds eyes, hear Taylor crying out, and feel her breaking apart in that cold dark alley begging someone would find her. Unfortunate when this terrible event happens, Kian is miles away living his all star NFH dream, but is it? He is often battling if this is the right place for him to be. Does any of this mean anything without the love of his life by his side? Kian knows something has happened to Taylor long before he gets the call, he can feel it in his gut, a black cloud hanging over him just waiting for the downpour to come. And when it comes, no umbrella, rain coat or galoshes will be able to keep the chill at bay. Taylor tries to let Kian off the hook and turns him away so he won’t have to see her at her lowest, so he can continue on with his NFH dreams and find that is not dirty or damaged. It takes a while before Taylor lets Kian back in, and allows him to see her, touch her, and open herself to him again. Through it all, the nightmares, panic attacks, crushed dreams, and finding herself again, Kian never once turned away from her. He was patient, loving and kind. I fell hopelessly in love with him and his unwavering love for his beautiful brown eyed girl. Don’t worry, the story is not all doom and gloom and tissue boxes, there is a beautiful moment where a young broken women, finds herself again and when she does there’s only one person she can’t wait to tell…her hot Fire On Ice, Playmaker of the year, NFH hottie boyfriend Kian. This story just proves that love really can concur all.

This ARC was provided by author through Kris and Vik Book Therapy Cafe in exchange for an honest review.

[Chu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

Rating: 4.5 Stars



Kian Kavanagh thought he’s lucky enough to have all he had been dreaming of – he’s finally with Taylor and he’s the newest sensation in the NHL. It’s been a hard time not being with Taylor and always on the road.

She had it all figured out, her education and her relationship with Kian. I thought Taylor’s nightmares were all over when she was finally got through her past, but no.

What happened her, had been really painful to read. My heart was aching terribly, I want to close my eyes and wished it would be over soon – wished that someone would come, would save this girl. But NO. It really happened, and it broke my heart. She had been through a lot and didn’t need another burden. Now she thinks she isn’t worthy of Kian anymore.

It was hard to watch the both of them suffer for something that was not their fault. But Kian was persistent, you can actually feel his determination to once again get through her walls and show her how much he loves her. He wowed her (and me) with his grand gesture – and yes, this tough NHL player can be a softie too when it comes to his princess. But will his love be enough for the both of them to get through?

Just how much tragedy can one endure in a lifetime? I applaud Taylor’s courage to get through the blows of life. It wasn’t easy, she did struggle, it may have taken her sometime. But with some support from her family, friends and an ultra-loving boyfriend – she made it through.

You will see a different side of Kian and Taylor in The Playmaker. They have become stronger, and more mature. This novel have captivated me – it made my heart stopped, broke, and trashed, but there are great moments when it made me smile and swoon. I’m glad how it ended. Both deserves their happy ending after everything that they have been through.


★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★

[Monica Cullip · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Playmaker (Fire On Ice Book Two)
Dakota Madison
Local hockey hero Kian Kavanagh has been called up to the big times, to the NHL's new expansion team in Seattle. He and Taylor decide to try a long distance relationship and burn up the phone lines talking to each other constantly.
They have gotten so close to one another, they really are the perfect couple.She has taught him that he is worthy to be loved after his childhood and he has opened her to being able to love after the scandal with Austin in highschool
Another horrific experiences awaits for Taylor as finally Blake catches her alone one day. He violently assaults her and once again Taylor needs to bounce back to find her inner strength to carry on.
I thought this story was going to be just a continuation of the love story that began in book one. I was totally wrong, this was so much more than a simple love story. This was the journey of a strong woman as she deals with a horrible situation and learns to grow. Sure, she has a few humane stumbles along the way but then she draws on her inner strength. It was a unbelievable journey as we watched her process what had happened to her and how she allows it to shape her life. It changes her outlook on so many things and she allows herself to grow with it. She fights back. She regains her belief in herself and continues on with her life.
The author does a great job portraying her struggles and how she copes with them. This tragedy affects her friends, family and of course Kian. It was a realistic view and journey to watch her deal with all of these people in her quest to renew her belief in herself.
I loved how she takes help from people that we were not expecting. I appreciated the effort that Kian puts in and her family's growing acceptance for him. It was great to see everyone give her space but continue to shower her with love and support. A true emotional read. I would give both of these a 5.5.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This picks up right where the first book left off. Kian is picked up by a NHL team in Seattle and Taylor is left with a stalker and her final semester in college.


It was so sweet to see how Kian had changed and has thrown all of his heart and soul into the relationship with Taylor (even eating wraps just for her)..

I was so happy that they had decided to give the long distance thing a go. I was very upset with her parents for their actions during the holidays. I'm still torn about how I feel about Zelda. I was upset I felt like she let her sister down more than once because of her "free spirited" life and no regards for anyone else but herself.

I was blown away with the events in the book and actually cried for Taylor and then again when Kian tried to see her after the "fateful night". I understood somewhat but then didn't understand at all that she didn't want to see Kian.



I wish Kian could have done more to her ex at the pizza place. I was in the mood for some sweet justice.


This book touched on some very scary things that happen all over the world everyday, I think this was written so eloquently and did the victim justice and shows others that they can overcome their own pain as well.

[Crossroad Readers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Fire on Ice. But I would have to say I thought The Playmaker was even better! This is a continuation of Kian and Taylor’s story. I still loved the characters, especially Kian. He has got to be one of the sweetest hockey players I have ever read about! He would do anything for Taylor or give up everything to try to protect her. Throughout the story he struggles with not being around to protect her. To him, nothing is more important than his “Princess”. He would give up hockey in a heartbeat if that meant he could be near her to protect her from harm. I liked that this book picks up where the last one left off. I thought Fire on Ice was a light and fun book, so I was expecting The Playmaker to be the same. However, I was surprised how much deeper and more emotional this book turned out to be. I think this book was wonderfully written and was a great follow up book to the first! If you haven’t already read Fire on Ice then I would recommend you read that one first. If you’re a fan of hockey books then I would highly recommend this series!

Full review posted at http://crossroadreaders.wordpress.com

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was just so emotional and overwhelming for me at times. I had to put it down and walk away after a couple of scenes. I liked that Taylor learned how to defend herself. Again, I wanted to beat the hell out of that scum sucking pig Blake. I really wanted to leave him in a bloody pile in a back alley. I loved that Kian was there for Taylor through all the challenges that came to them. I loved that he was gentle when he needed to be, and that he didn't give up on their relationship. I'm equally glad that Taylor allowed him that chance. Dakota was masterful in writing the scenes, and definitely kept the storyling compelling. This is one of those books that I can't say any more about it, you've got to read it for yourself. I'm glad that I had the chance to do so.

I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kian Kavanagh is loving his new role on Seattle's NHL team, he has gone from being Fire On Ice to the Playmaker and living the career of his dream. The only thing he wishes he could changes is having his girl, his princess, Taylor Thompson by his side. They are making it work though even with the distance between them.

When Taylor is attacked, Kian is ready to drop everything to be by her side. However, Taylor is worried she won't be the woman he needs and has to work through the trauma. Kian will take Taylor anyway he can, he loves her unconditionally and takes the time to show Taylor how he can be her rock, even from afar.

I was swept away by this one, it takes a very difficult subject and really handles it with care. It is not a quick fix, but one made both emotionally and with support.

[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kian and Taylor's story continues in Fire on Ice #2: The Playmaker.

Kian Kavanagh has finally accomplished a life-long dream. He has been called up to the NHL, joining Seattle’s new expansion hockey team.

Taylor Thompson is a semester away from graduating and then plans on going to Graduate School. She is looking at the University of Washington to be with Kian.

Tragedy strikes testing Kian’s and Taylor’s relationship.

Dakota Madison did a spectacular job with the Playmaker. I did not think it would be possible to top Fire on Ice but she did it. You cannot help but love Kian and Taylor the more you learn about them and watch them grow. This emotionally packed book will not disappoint.

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Kasey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Note to self:
- Dual POV
- 4 weeks after the first book
- Taylor and Kian spend most of the book apart (focuses a lot on Taylor healing after being attacked)
- We got to see Taylor throughout the entire process of healing after her attack which was interesting to read (I havent read any books where the rape happens after the main characters have gotten together so it was different and interesting to read however, there was something missing for me and im not sure what but i skimmed a bit and i was anxious to finish the book and move on to a new book/series)

Things I liked:
- How supportive Kian was (even though he wasnt really in the book much)

Things I didnt like:
- Blake is still around (he was arrested for hitting another girl) - Both Taylor and Kian have a feeling something bad will happen but Taylor still walks home alone (Kian couldnt really do much from where he is)
- Taylor is raped by Blake
- The epilogue made me feel a little ripped off. Its 2 years later and Taylor is graduating from her masters (we didnt get to see her move, we didnt see them get engaged or married.. her name is called during the graduation ceremony “Taylor Thompson Kavanagh, Master of Social Work.” and thats how we find out? How Rude.)
- Although I was hopeful that they would get an HEA and end up together without the distance I felt like I was being told that they loved each other and not actually "feeling" it (not sure if thats the best way to explain it... but i like when I can almost feel how much a couple is in love while reading a book)

[Christina Montminy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay I have to say this book is better than I thought it would be. The continuation of Kian & Taylor's story was deeper & a little darker than I thought it would be. With the devastation that Taylor faces at the hands of an entitled, despicable person, she also has a huge personal growth experience. While dealing with the attack on Taylor, Kian has to deal with being so far away from her as he lives out his dream to play in the NHL. He would rather give it all up to be by her side but Taylor's strength & determination that he succeed wins out. The subject of this book is a sensitive issue that deals with stalking, rape & the victims aftermath. I really appreciated the authors views on this subject & how the victims are left to take on a difficult process of prosecution with very little law enforcement help. The statistics brought up in the story were shocking to say the least. I definitely recommend this book. On a side note I was rather disappointed with the editing of these books. The fact that the publisher let these books go to print with the amount of grammatical errors is surprising. Auto-correct definitely had a hand in some of the mistakes I noticed, but the fact that words were literally left out & you had to reread sentences over to make sense of them was very frustrating. I feel when an author is paying an editor to edit their books they need to do a perfect job. It makes the author look bad when it's really the editors.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my .....

Wow! This was not what I expected. After the first book, I wasn't sure what to expect from this one. I was completely surprised ! This story takes you in & really gets much deeper & darker, still with an HEA that I was hoping would happen. Dakota's style is very realistic & I was riveted from the beginning. AMAZING story! Thanks so much, Dakota!

[DawnMarie Carpintero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was happy to receive this book for my honest review.

“I just want you to know how I feel. I also want ou to know that I love you and I want you to understand what that means. It means I love you no matter what better or worse Wedding vows or not.” Kian to Taylor

Kian and Taylor’s journey continues in this second book. You definitely have to read the first book Fire on Ice to get this books understanding.

“He won’t want you anymore once I’m done with you.” Blake to Taylor

Taylor was raped first by Austin in high school. It had taken Taylor 3 years to finally get up the nerve to even think about dating again. When Kian first saw her reading in the bar in the first book Fire on Ice he knew that Taylor was going to be the love of his life even if she didn’t know it yet.

Kian turned into her protector but he could only protect her from so much. She knew by dating him that life would go on and she was ready for it. She had gotten stronger with his strength and him beside her. She was the first to say “I love you” to Kian he didn’t say it back right away. He knew that he had those feelings but something was always standing in the way of the words coming out of his mouth. Kian is a hockey player and protecting came normal for him but protecting his heart was so much dearer to the both of them. When he finally said “I love you” to Taylor he knew it was forever there was never any doubt in his heart.

Taylor got raped for a second time in College by Blake but this time even though she tried to let it define her Kian would not let it define them. With the strength and love from him she was able to conqueror her fears and come full circle back to Kian but she never really left him he always had her heart no matter what. She knew that Kian was her forever as he was hers.

FYI: When the sex does happen and it does it is so much more sensual that one could even put into words. Careful not to cry to much when you read it.

The author was amazing in defining the circumstances in this amazing book. This author did not just focus on the rape she focused on the survival and the strength that it takes to come back from it. I wish I could give this book more than the 5 star rating. An awesome ending and one heck of a read that I know I will be reading again.

Kian and Taylor get there happily ever after in this book. They have taken life by storm. Lightening never looked so good.

A great anytime read. I am sorry that my review could not do this book justice. Its hard to put into words what a fabulous read this actually is.

Happy Reading

[Elizabeth Horbaczek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was given to me for an honest review.

5 stars

This book has some difficult scenes in here and touches on rape, so this book should be read by adults eighteen and over.

This is a the conclusion if fire on ice and I have to say wow. You never expect the second book to compare with the first, but I have to say it reached all my expectations and more. There is this light that this author tells from that makes her books so believable that you want to keep on reading. I was thinking how could she have a whole story but she did. Its always great to read a book and not want to put it down till the end, and well this was it.

Kian being brought up to the nhl was a dream come true, but the only unexpected thing was he fell in love. So this was a had transition for him. I think he has grown so much in this book, to become the man he wanted to become and also finding the balance to help him survive being away from his princess. He is a favorite amongst book boyfriends I have. His love and devotion is what makes him such a beautiful man. I do have to say the demons that follow him in this boo, I'm not sure I could have been like him and tucked them away like he was asked, but I guess the love he felt, kept him from doing stupid things.

Taylor. Wow I all I can say. She has so much to deal with in this book, that i was in tears for part of this book. She is such a good person, but these obsessed sickos are always wanting what they can't have. Her strong personality has truly brought her to a brilliant, strong, independent woman that which is great to see. She has to deal with blake within this book, and let me tell you I couldn't do what she has to in this book. I love taylor and all she becomes in this book.

I'm going to give some key words that will explain this book and tell you, read this book, but make sure you read the first book . Kian Taylor Nhl Blake Rape Long distance relationship Rebounding Learning to live again

I loved this book and even more so I loved the epilogue, it gives you some type of closure and that's what makes it so much better. I hope to read more from this author. Sent from my NOOK

[Falling In Fall Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gifted copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To view Vanessa's full review, visit http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com/201...

I could not wait to get my hands on this book after the way the last one ended. This is the conclusion to Kian and Taylors story so sadly we will have to say goodbye but not before we get our happily ever after. Kian and Taylor fought demons that were way bigger than them and for a while I wasn’t sure if they were going to make it through them. The love these two have for each other is one of fairytales but after the tragedy that strikes Taylor again, Kian wonders if he made the right decision leaving her in the first place. If you read the first book, you know that Kian got pulled up to the big leagues and is now playing in Seattle and the distance is hard between the two of them. Not to mention the fact that no one has heard anything from Blake and that just adds to the reason Kian wants to come home. Taylor knows how hard it is for him but with rumors going around that Blake is gone back to Scottsdale, she is as relaxed as she can be and just trying to finish her last semester of school. With a few trips back here and there these two lovebirds spend as much time together as possible and after the holiday disaster, Taylor’s parents are still leery about Kian but are learning to accept it for what it is. A little time after Kian returns back to Seattle tragedy strikes Taylor again and this time Kian isn’t sure what will become of them. As much as she love him, Taylor knows she needs to make sure Kian doesn’t lose his dream and forces him to stay in Seattle and keep playing for her, giving her the time she needs to heal. Kian is trying to understand why she needs the space because he can’t stand feeling so helpless when it comes to her especially miles away, but what she wants is what she will get because what else can he do? These two have a lot to overcome but you’ll have to read to find out if they do. It is a really great story and I was glad I got the chance to read it.

[Cocktails and Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Cocktails

THE PLAYMAKER is the continuation of Kian and Taylor's story. Moved up to an NHL team in Seattle, Kian and Taylor are trying to manage their relationship with significant distance between them. But distance is the least of their worries when a perceived danger to Taylor becomes reality and changes everything for Kian and Taylor.

Let me say, I was not expecting what happened to Taylor. Yes, I figured Blake would find some way to make good on this threats from FIRE ON ICE, but never did I expect the brutality that Taylor had to endure. My heart broke for Taylor, as I wondered just how much bad stuff this poor girl was going to have to endure. I loved how Taylor allowed herself the time to hide inside herself as she came to grips with what happened, but didn't wait too long before she let Kian back in. With Kian, she became a much stronger person and believed in herself and her ability to move forward.

It's hard not love Kian in this book. He was already having a hard time dealing with the distance between himself and Taylor, even though he had finally achieved his dream of playing in the NHL. But when Taylor is attacked, he looses it. And when she tries to push him away, your heart breaks for him even more. He proved just what kind of a man he was buy his determination to make sure Taylor understood he loved her and would be by her side, even if that meant giving her the space he so desperately didn't want to give her.

The author tied up all the loose ends to this story and gave us a HEA for this couple that they so deserved. Despite what they had to endure, Taylor and Kian figured out how to work together to move past these events and build their life together.

The conclusion to Taylor and Kian's story was great, even if we did have to endure some pretty horrific events to get there.

[Kristiej · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5

****This more of a continuation of a review started with Book 1 - Fire on Ice

This book opens several weeks after Fire on Ice ends. Kian is now playing for Seattle, a new NHL team. He impresses his coaches and teammates right from the start with his talent. While he’s happy to have made it to the big league, he desperately misses Taylor and she misses him. They keep in touch with each other, constantly texting and video chatting but it’s not the same. Still things seem to be going well between them until the night Taylor is brutally attacked and sexually abused. It isn’t an easy scene to read for any readers sensitive to his. Taylor had already been traumatized and didn’t think Kian could love her when he found out, but now she really believes it’s over now.

Because of the nature of her injuries, she’s hospitalized. When Kian finds out, he immediately flies to see her, not even considering what this might do to his career. He’s broken up when she refuses to see him. He wants to let her know this doesn’t make any difference in how he feels about her and he will wait as long as it takes as long as she’s willing to keep him in her life. He still doesn’t feel that’s he’s good enough and she thinks the same thing.

As well, there is the aftermath of the attack. Taylor knows exactly who did this but he comes up with a false alibi and it becomes she said/he said. We can feel the frustration of the legal system when it comes to rape.

This book is so good in seeing how much love can heal. Kian and Taylor are truly meant for each other and seeing them overcome obstacles to get their HE, well, it makes for some very good reading. If you are a fan of sports romance books, this duo is a great addition.

And again, they can be purchased as a bundle at Amazon for $.99

[Majanka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...

The story of Kian and Taylor continues in The Playmaker, the second book in the Fire on Ice series. Kian has moved into premier league hockey, and is more popular than ever in the world of hockey. While things are looking up for him career-wise, this also means spending less time with Taylor, and more time away from home.

Meanwhile Taylor is still studying for her degree and her chance to go to graduate school. But with a stalker still on the look out for her, something may happen that’ll turn her entire world upside down.

Kian has a lot of identity issues during this book, which actually bothered me. Why does he keep insisting he’s not good enough for Taylor? It’s like all his insecurities about his childhood, about not being the person he wants to be, all come leaping out in this installment. I don’t mind character development, but it seemed like Kian actually put a step backward instead of forward.

Back to Taylor. She has a lot of insecurities to spread around as well, but hers are at least founded upon solid reasons, or upon things that happened to her recently. I liked her more than in the last book. She’s more independent, less eager to rely on Kian for everything, and she’s a more complex, rounded character than she was before.

The story was actually even better than in the previous book, because now we already knew the characters, and we could jump straight into the story itself.

As before, I really enjoyed the down-to-earth writing style, the character interactions, the secondary characters and the story itself. It was a pleasant, light read.

[Jac · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Playmaker" continues on from "Fire On Ice" where Kian Kavanagh's dreams all come true. He has finally been signed up for the major league in hockey to play for a team in Seattle. Kian has to move to Seattle to live his dream and leave Taylor behind where his heart now belongs. Taylor Thompson is starting to live life again happily after the incident. She has found someone special to love her and to finish her final year in college. Until one fateful night where someone rips Taylor's world apart and destroys everything she has worked for to bring it back down to nothing. Taylor also distances herself from Kian. Will Taylor let Kian back in? Will the distance between the two be strong enough to hold what they had before the fateful night and build an even stronger bond and relationship between the two?!?!

The relationship between Kian and Taylor has grown so much stronger between the two and have matured so much. They understand more about life and love and what they want for each other and themselves. I really like Kian's character the best in the second book but all characters were much more together and blended really well. Dakota wrote this book so much better than the first one and I think this one was more in depth and was explained really well and much stronger.

Nothing I didn't like about this story. I was really happy the way Dakota finished this story, a beautiful ending.

Some parts maybe be hard for some women to read as Dakota wrote that fateful night quite in depth but you will not be disappointed. To know where Kian and Taylor's story ends is something you will wanna know!!!

[K3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kian is a fighter. All his life he has fought hard to get what he wants. His dreams are becoming a reality. Currently playing hockey for an NHL expansion team, he got the call to join the big leagues. Everyone knows that with dreams and goals, a lot of sacrifices have to be made along the way. One of those sacrifices was leaving the love of his life, Taylor behind. It is true what they say, absence does make the heart grow fonder. Agreeing to support each other, they decide to do the long distance thing.
Taylor had been so closed off to men after her mortifying past, especially when it comes to athletes but somehow Kian was able to break down her walls and he has done nothing but prove how much he loves her along the way. Being far away from the one you love is hard but she has her classes that keep her busy. Things are going great but in the blink of an eye Taylor’s world comes crashing down and she is left scared, haunted, ashamed and broken.
Kian does his best to be there for Taylor while she does her best to keep the distance between them. What doesn’t kill you only makes your stronger, right?
Kian will stop at nothing to prove that Taylor that nothing has changed and that he will be there for her every step of the way.

Dakota really stepped it up in this book. There was so much emotion, love, fear, hurt, uncertainty and happiness.
There is a scene that is violent but she wrote it with class and honesty, making it real.
I really enjoyed this series, definitely worth reading.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Playmaker by Dakota Madison
Review by: Kayla

Synopsis: THE PLAYMAKER is Part Two of the FIRE ON ICE series.

Kian Kavanagh, Mr. Fire on Ice, has just been called up to play hockey for the NHL's new expansion team in Seattle. Finally playing in the NHL is a dream come true...except for one thing. Kian has to leave Northern Arizona and the love of his life, Taylor Thompson, to pursue his dream.

Taylor Thompson thinks she's got life figured out. She'll finish her final semester of college then move to Seattle to attend graduate school and be with her man. Until one fateful night when Taylor's world is complete shattered and everything she's ever wanted--everything she's ever hoped for--is called into question.

Will Kian's love be enough to help put Taylor's shattered world back together again or will tragedy tear them apart?

This NEW ADULT ROMANCE contains MATURE LANGUAGE, VIOLENCE and CONTENT indented for ADULT READERS (18+).

Review: I was given a copy of the Playmaker by Love Romance books blog for an honest review. I liked this book a lot more than the first one. This showed how the author grew in her writing. I really enjoyed how this story went. There is some horrific stuff that happens in this book. It makes me sad and I was upset while reading it. The love in this book is strong and it overcomes the bad thing that happens. I enjoyed this book and recommend people give this series a try! I give it 4 out of 5 stars!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK. SERIES! This story grabbed me from the start. The characters are well fleshed out and the story line flows smoothly. The first book, Fire on Ice, can be read as a standalone as it reaches a satisfying conclusion. However, it is much better read as a set. I read both books as a set and I am glad that I did. I wanted to keep reading about Kian and Taylor. Their story was gripping. I did find the second book, The Playmaker, to be the stronger of the two in my opinion. The path that Taylor and Kian have to take to get together created a lot of emotions that kept me glued to the page. I literally could not put this series down. I downloaded it to my Kindle and my phone so that I could keep reading (even at work). Kian is the kind of man that you want in your corner…especially when you’ve gone through the things that Taylor has been through. For the background that Kian has you would not expect the tenderness and caring that he shows. However, Dakota Madison, writes Kian in such a detailed and complete way that you find it believable that he can be so caring after having received so little from others. The way that Kian treats Taylor makes you want to be her. The passion between Kian and Taylor is electric. This is a book series that I will re-read and enjoy as much as I did the first time. I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review."

[SiKReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

WARNING! This is what I call a bottle book(s). You wind up propping it (book or ereader) up against anything so you can have your hands free to do something else!

I told myself I will start Fire on Ice then make dinner since it was still early. I was 25% into the second book before my boys were like "we going to eat?". Needless to say, I couldn't put the thing down and I didn't eat dinner until 8 pm.

Take a hot, hockey-playing man from "the wrong side of the tracks" and a smoking hot "rich girl" and a story is made.

Kian is a diamond in the rough, and Taylor is the only one whom can get him to shine like he is meant to be. Their love starts at first sight. I couldn't help but to root for Kian on and off the ice.

Taylor's story is heart wrenching (make sure you have tissues nearby). Even though she doesn't think so, she is so strong and I admire her for it. Kian is soooo sweet and romantic....would your significant other make a commercial for you? le sigh.....I might have another book boyfriend!

These books take you on a touching story of love. Taylor and Kian complement each other as a couple. The books have hockey in them too! I highly recommend these books. I give them both 5 Hearts!

[Mindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever known one of those people or couples who seem to have the worst luck? You know the ones who have everything that could go wrong go wrong and yet they still manage to come back strong and thriving. Taylor is one of those people. In book one we find out her high school boyfriend posted her first sexual encounter on the internet for all to see. As if that wasn’t enough to turn you off sex, in college she is raped. Unfortunately this last statistic is not unusual. More women are raped than you would think.

But Taylor is strong and she fights back…eventually. And boyfriend Kian, hockey player extraordinaire, helps because he loves her no matter what.

This book was a great conclusion to this storyline, but I have to say I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first one. It was well written and satisfying, but the topic of rape made it harder to read.

I give this book 4 out of 5 clouds and kudos for tackling a tough storyline with compassion and grace.


This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews.

[Book Junky Girls · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kian Kavanagh went off to Seattle to finally fulfill a dream of his...to play professional Hockey.
Leaving behind the girl he fell in love with. She needed to finish her degree and fulfill her own dreams.
The distance between them is hard to handle for the both of them.
Taylor has a admirer that doesn't seem to understand that she is just not interested.

The poor girl can't seem to catch a break. She is put through a horrible ordeal and left destroyed. Kian being so far away is the hardest thing he has ever had to do. He wants nothing more than to be by her side, helping her heal. Taylor has other ideas...she needs distance. She insists that he go back to Seattle and play harder than he ever has before.

The Healing process that Taylor goes through pulls heavy on your heart. That poor girl...but she comes out strong and Karma is a bitch. Blake gets his, finally.

Watching Kian and Taylor grow stronger was a great journey.

[Jennifer's Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the continuation of their story.

Kian & Taylor haven't had an easy time thus far. Taylor is trying to keep herself pulled together and not let everything fall apart. While walking home from class one evening, her whole world goes to hell in a hand basket. She must now face that nothing will ever be the same. Will she be able to move past this horrible incident and move forward with Kian?

Kian must face that he wasn't there for Taylor when this horrible incident took place. Kian has to try and pick up the pieces of his life, and still support Taylor while playing professional hockey. Kian is struggling hard to move past the guilt he is feeling.

Will these two amazing people be able to move past this horrible incident? Will they be able to pull themselves together and move forward? Grab this book and find out what happens to two people who belong together! Full of love, laughs and tears.

[Anna Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story continues for Taylor and Kian. They made it over the hurdle of getting to know each other and their lives have moved forward. Kian is moved from a minor league team to the NHL but in another city. Taylor continues as college student with a strong desire to reach her own goals. Of course all is not well as they try to navigate through a long distance relationship. They both find themselves willing to sacrifice for the other and not allowing the other to sacrifice for them self. Taylor finds herself in a situation that Kian is unable to help her and life falls apart for a while. Kian of course makes the grand gesture and show Taylor that love can conquer all.

Add to the story Taylor's sister Zelda and life is always fun. Enjoyable story and a great follow up book to Fire on Ice.

[Heather Way · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a continued book from book One. Kian is in the Major League Hockey Team now is Seattle. Moved away from his Girlfriend Taylor.
Their relationship is still going strong even know they miss each other a lot. Then one Night something Horrible happens. Which puts Taylor's mental state not so good. This book was even more hard for me..
It was so hard to read a book that hits close to home. you know when its a good book when it pulls tears from you and every other emotion that is possible. The Playmaker was that book. It offered romance, sadness, worry, fear, and true love. It also gave you some amazing hot sex scenes.
Can two people continue to allow their love to grow even when something so horrible happens. Is is possible to come back from something that puts fear into you?.. this book gives you every emotion possible Its a must read!! pick up book 1 then grab book 2 !!

[FS Meurinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the next book into the series of Fire and Ice, and Kian and Taylor’s relationship is at stake. Kian has been called top lay in the NHL with Seattle, and Taylor still has her studies to complete in Arizona. Being appart is compromising their future, and they are trying to be together but is not easy. Then a fateful night shatters everything they have worked so hard for. They must try to overcome the difficulties but will their relationship survive all of it, knowing the past that both had to overcome in the first place to be together. It was hard reading about it but I love how the autor puts everything into a real perspective and developes the characters. A great end for an awesome story.