Wild Blades

Elite Eagles #2

by V.H. Nicolson

I’m ‘Wild’ Wade Collins, defenseman for The Eagles.

Drafted at eighteen, I have my life mapped out, until it all comes crashing down around me.

Which is how I find myself being managed by a specialist team, the threat of transfer looming over me if I don’t learn to behave. I can’t lose my spot on the team; I bleed Eagle colors, so I agree.

I just didn’t know that I’d have to work with her.

Kali Roth.

She forces me to make changes in my life, tries to repair my damaged reputation, and annoyingly, calms the wild streak that threatens to destroy my career.

I hate her. I need her.

And I can’t deny that I want her.

But when secrets are revealed and a past I had no idea about comes to light, can I count on her to protect me or will she really be my destruction?

Genres: Hockey, Sports Romance, Sports, Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Hockey Romance

524 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 13, 2024

About the author

VH Nicolson is an emerging author of contemporary romance. Vicki wrote her first book over lockdown and is now completely smitten with writing love stories with happily ever afters. VH Nicolson was born and raised along the breathtaking coastline in North East Scotland. For more than two decades she’s worked throughout the UK and abroad within the creative marketing and design industry, as a branding strategist and stylist, editor of a magazine and sub-editor of a newspaper. Married to her soul mate, they have one son. She has a weakness for buying too many quirky sparkly jumpers, eating Belgium buns, and walking the endless beaches that surround her beautiful Scottish hometown she’s now moved back to.

Reviews

[Menna Elsherif · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

[Kaity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!
Seeing Wade in Frozen Flames and now understanding his background and what made him who is he.. wow! Total broken boy…
That boy deserved so much better..!

I loved how he slowly found himself again, it was so sweet to see his growth!

Kali was a total breath of fresh air for him, and he was for her. I loved seeing them grow close and the spice, it totally was spicin’!!

That third act twist and the angst, the drama, the pain. It was so vivid. My heart broke alongside Wade’s. He was barely out of his darkness and he was thrust back in again. Rebroken, only to be put back together, whole again. It was such a sweet ending.

Thanks Vicki for an advanced copy. <3

[my.reading_record · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic book! I loved every word.

Having met Wade in book 1 of the series I knew he was troublesome and troubled and I was ready to find out more. His troubles run deep but so does his passion and love, they just needed nurturing and that’s exactly what Kali did. She showed up for Wade and continued to do so until he could be his true self. Kali is amazing, strong, driven, dedicated and loyal but also in need of someone to cherish her. Wade and Kali are a wonderful power couple, love them.

It was great to see characters from book 1 and also new characters, who I definitely want to meet again, and a special mention for Nicki, what a woman!

I love when a book gets me thinking and speculating about the plot, occupying my thoughts when I’m not reading and this did exactly that. I was completely hooked. The way it all plays out is just brilliant. The story stirred so many emotions and a few tears were shed.

Wade and Kali have to go through so much to get their HEA but what a ride. A brilliant, captivating story with so much heart. Highly recommend.

[cakecoffeeandbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Beasts only get beauties in fairytales.”

Oh my goodness, I think this might be my new favourite VH Nicolson book!
Vicki, you have outdone yourself! I couldn’t put it down and totally fell in love with Wade and Kali.

My heart broke for Wade and everything he had endured- especially as a child- but seeing the impact Kali had on him, and their relationship as it grew was just beautiful. She was so perfect for him.

There was some angst, some twists and turns I never saw coming, secrets and lies, but of course an amazing HEA at the end.
A stunning story!

If you can, try to avoid reading any spoilers as you definitely want to go into this blind.

I’m so looking forward to Jordy’s book, and know exactly who I want his FMC to be- here’s hoping I get that wish!

Thank you so much Vicki for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. It’s a pleasure to be part of your ARC team.

[Claire Ingledew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild blades

One word Fabulous, after the prologueI I knew this was a book I wouldn’t put down and that what happened read it within 24hrs.

Wade 💓💓💓 my god what a MMC he is, my heart is mending as I write this review what he has gone through my heart broke, Kali a strong FMC character how she was in wade corner from the word go had me hocked to see where this storyline went and I can tell you @VHnicolson has outdone herself on this book.

We get to meet other characters and there are written perfectly Zane, Lola,Joe, Thomas and Leon put I say anymore it will spoil it for you.

It was added bonus we got to see ash again in this book and to meet Jordy his friendship with Wade made me smile can’t wait to get my hands on his book.

For me it a 5🌟 read thank you Vicky for Advanced copy xx

[Casey (casey_bookish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wade and Kali, what can I say? You stole my heart.

The story had me reflecting on things in my childhood, and honestly, it healed me in ways I never knew I needed.

The surprises and possibilities keep you guessing and on the edge. The spice is top tier, and I love how in tune they were to each other.

VH Nicolson has done an amazing job once again.

I'm excited for what's to come next in the series.

[Jade Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Vicki! I highly recommend absolutely anything that she writes, but i think this may be my favourite so far 🥰

I really enjoyed figuring out the 'twists' in the story, and I'm struggling to say anything else about that without it being a spoiler so you'll have to just take my word for it 🫣

Kali and Wade were both great characters and were really well written. We see some of Wades downfall in the previous story, and i liked being able to understand what caused him to act the way he did. He had such great growth, I'm so glad he got his happy ending.

I can already tell who the next story will be about and I cannot wait!

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Que desperdicio de potencial. Todo iba bien hasta la parte final en donde se nota (otra vez) el machismo de la autora.


Se vuelve a repetir lo del libro anterior: Kali es quien carga con la culpa de algo que no hizo, se la pasa por días intentando disculparse, pero Wade no lo permite, es grosero y cuando se da cuenta de su error no hace nada, no mueve ni un dedo para arrastrarse y pedirle perdón. Que coraje porque todo iba de maravilla.



Luego tenemos la trama de Marcus con Miranda y Nicki, ¿cómo es posible que la rata bastarda infiel de Marcus engañará a su esposa por casi 2 DÉCADAS, que Nicki supiera y no lo abandonará, y que además al final todo le saliera bien? No me importa que su matrimonio fuera arreglado, él le debía todo su respeto y fidelidad, también la autora quiere que crea que ahora si ama a Nicky y que está arrepentido.
Me dolió que Nicky contara que se dió cuenta cuando terminó con la amante porque de repente el idiota estaba haciendo de todo por ella y estaba luchando por su matrimonio, ¿No pudo hacer eso cuando se casó? No, tuvo que pasar años para que disfrutara su infidelidad y hasta que se dió cuenta que Miranda no lo amaba, ahora si regreso con la tonta de su esposa.
Lo que daría para que en el siguiente libro dijeran que Nicki lo abandonó y le quitó equipo -se vale soñar-.

Otra cosa imperdonable fue lo que hizo la basura de Zane que no me sorprende porque se parece al idiota de su padre, debió ir preso y no tener una millonésima oportunidad. Espero que V.H se de cuenta de su error y no se le vaya a ocurrir convertirlo en protagonista en algún futuro libro.



Nota para mi:
Si Zane llega a tener libro le pondré 0 estrellas a todos sus libros.

[Sarah is Lostinthepages.17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wade is nothing like the guy you met in Frozen Flames. He is a man, with the soul of a broken boy. His story broke my heart at every twist, turn and deprecating thought.
Kali from the moment they meet, she becomes his oxygen. She SEES him, and even through his angst, the impression he leaves on her, makes her want to be his someone.
Their understanding of each other and the honesty at which they talk, it took my breath away. The relationships that develop, beautiful. The years of secrets, twisted.
Wade is one of the most honest, pure, loving and genuine characters I think Vicki has ever written.
I loved everything about this book.
“Loving and so loved”

#vhnicholson #wildblades #arcread #sportsromance #hockey #forcedproximity #hatetolove #reverseagegap #oppositesattract #redemption #darksecrets #lovablebrokenrogue #bookstagram #booksbooksbooks #booklover #bookreview #arcreview

[Shushi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating - ⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶

Trope - strangers to lovers, reverse age gap, hate to love, forced proximity, found family, grief, secret relationship, slow burn, hockey romance, emotional, opposite attract, workplace, third-act breakup, family drama, dark secret, cheating (side characters), redemption, HEA
Bonus chapter - 1

After reading the first book, I had slightly higher expectations for this one. While it held my interest in the first half, I found the story a bit shaky in the second half.

If you read the first book, you already know who Wade is. He’s one of the most problematic players on the Eagles and often finds himself in the tabloids due to fights both on and off the ice. When his behaviour doesn’t improve, the team decides to hire a support team to help him deal with his grief and personal issues. Kali Roth, a supermodel turned publicist, is assigned to manage Wade’s public image and encourage a positive change in his personality.

Kali was an absolute badass, and I loved how she not only challenged Wade but also pushed him to become a better person.

As the story progressed, Wade and Kali became accustomed to each other. They still bickered, but they also shared sweet moments that showcased their chemistry. Although their relationship had a slightly more sexual vibe at first, they eventually revealed a deeper connection filled with supportive and challenging interactions. Their chemistry improved over time, blending playful banter with tender moments.

Wade, whom I didn’t expect to be the sweetest and kindest person, continuously surprised me in the best ways.

I appreciated how well the representation of Goddess Kali was so accurate and well done.

The character development for Wade was exceptional. The representation of therapy was accurate and thoughtfully portrayed, effectively highlighting its benefits and contributing to meaningful character arcs.

I had an inkling of what the plot twist would be, but it kept unfolding in unexpected ways. The drama towards the end made it a bit tedious for me, but I understood the dilemmas that led to it.

One aspect I didn’t like was the recurring theme of cheating—not involving the main characters, but with many people around them. It soured my mood a bit.

Side Characters:
1. Zane improved towards the end, and I liked how a new and healed side of him was shown
2. Nicki's character appeared unexpectedly, but she left a positive impact.
3. I truly loathed Miranda.
4. Lola’s character was sweet and endearing, and I can’t wait to read her book next.
5. I wish we had got to meet Gretchen at least once, she seemed really loving.
6. Cameos of characters from book 1 were my favourite.

There was a misunderstanding between the main characters that led to a prolonged third-act breakup, which I didn’t enjoy much.

Their wedding felt rushed. I barely processed the details before it was over. However, it was beautiful, even if it was quick.

The epilogue and bonus epilogue were sweet and provided a lovely glimpse into their future.
I found it good.
Overall, 3.5/5.

[Kristiej · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a bit disappointed in this one after the first book though I did enjoy it and glad I read it. Wade is the hero in this one. He’s a very talented major league hockey player in the NHL but he’s been difficult for the past year, drinking and fighting too much and thus his popularity has taken a nose dive. He knows his performance has been really bad and when he’s called into the owners office, he’s sure it’s because he’s being traded and since all his life he’s only wanted to play for the Edmonton Eagles, the team he’s currently with, he’s devastated and so disappointed in himself. But much to his shock, that it’s why he’s being called in. Instead it’s an intervention of sorts determined to bring him back. There is a new sports agent, some specialized trainers one of whom is Ash from the first book.theres also a psychologist to help him. Turns out that he’s experienced two shattering losses a year ago and hasn’t discussed them with anyone. He also had a cold and distant mother he loathes, deservedly so. He hasn’t had any therapy and now they insist he goes for it. In addition, on the team is Kali, our heroine, employed as his publicist. Her assignment is to undo the damage he’s done himself. Right away he recognizes her and is gobsmacked. She’s a famous supermodel who has left modelling behind and is stating her own business as a high profile publicist. She has connections and plans to use them to vastly improve his very damaged reputation.

She is a few years older than Wade, unhappily married and now divorced and her incredible beauty has Wade VERY interested. She is also a very good person and when she learns about the losses Wade has experienced, she begins to admire and then fall for him and he for her. Because of their circumstances, they have to keep their growing feelings to themselves though it’s becoming harder and harder.

Now the issues I was disappointed in are definitely a me problem. I loved both Wade and Kali and was very on board with their story. The writing was very good and for those reasons I loved both Wade this book. But I found the sex scenes too lengthy, to gratuitous and I skipped pages and pages of them. They went into great detail with a lot of dirty talk, way too much for me. I do love a well written love scene and some authors are very skilled in writing them. But when I rush through, skipping pages and pages until it’s over, this will lower the grade for me. The next reader might love these kinds of excessive scenes and that doesn’t bother or upset me at all but it’s just not my jam.

But I do recommend this book, I’m glad I read and will be reading the next book in the series very shortly.

[EA Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Best Book Yet! I have loved every word VH Nicolson writes but there is something special about Wade and Kali.

Wade Collin’s, man searching for where he belongs. Who has been seen as a shadow his whole life, shunned by his father, and a nuisance to his mother. The only person who cared was his Nanny and when he loses her his life spirals out of control. Private and closed off no one knows what is going on but his team and coaches have had enough. Scheduling an intervention seems like the worst possible thing for him until he understands it’s this or his career. And the woman to turn his reputation behind is a beautiful woman a few years older than him, his attraction is instant but he needs to keep his head focused. But she gets under his skin and starts melting that ice exterior he shows.

Kali Roth, a supermodel turned PR agent who divorced her agent husband when she found him in their bed with let’s just say not her. She’s walked runways, done countless photo shoots, and been named the most beautiful woman, but underneath her insecurities scratch at the surface. Wade is exactly what she doesn’t need or is he everything she’s been missing?

Their story is one of growth, of finding who you are and finding the people who will build you up and support you no matter what comes your way. This book keeps you turning the pages until the epilogue with lots of spice, witty banter, and things you won’t see coming. I laughed and I cried and I felt their love through every page.

Congratulations on another beautiful story!!! Can’t wait for Jordy.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about Wade and Kali’s book.
It was the book I didn’t know I needed in my life, beautiful but heartbreaking at times.

Wade, NHL defenseman for The Eagles, was drafted at 18 and everything was looking great until it all starts crashing around him. Now he’s spiralling and it’s becoming a problem, with the threat of being transferred from the only team he’s ever wanted to play for he finds himself being managed by a specialist team.

Kali is hired as Wades publicist to help make some changes in his life and turn around his image. Wade finds that Kali calms his “wild” ways.

There is a connection between these two from the start but they try to keep things professional for various reasons, she’s older, they both have past issues that makes it hard to trust.

I loved seeing their relationship grow throughout the book. So many surprises towards the end!

I’m excited for Jordy’s book next.

Wild Blades is a standalone hockey romance full of angst, spice, and secrets that can either make or break everything.

🏒 Reverse Age Gap
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Dark Secrets
🏒 Hate to Love
🏒 Opposites Attract
🏒 Redemption
🏒 Loveable Broken Rogue
🏒 Forced Proximity

[Katsbookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Blades by VH Nicolson is the second book in the Elite Eagles Series and this book is beyond amazing and Kali and Wade‘s story quickly became one of my new all-time favorite romances.
 
Wade is living hockey and he’s not only successful, but hockey is his lifeline and all he’s got left. Emotionally he is all over the place grieving and coming from a difficult family background and that makes him reckless and lashing out. He’s earned the nickname wild and after yet another scandal, he needs to change his ways and that’s how Kali comes into the story. Wade is a very misunderstood person and he downright blooms under his relationship with Kali and loving someone.
 
Kali was a supermodel and she retired from it and is running her own PR agency. She is a complete badass and a person to look up to and I loved everything about her.
 
Kali becomes Wade‘s watchdog and publicist and he really hates it but they actually work great together. There is just something explosive between them and the tension was just delicious, and the sparks are on fire. The chemistry these two have would be a waste not to explore and I loved how they did it. Their romance is a bit forbidden and that created some of the hottest scenes I’ve read in a while. Simultaneously, there is so much depth and I love how they communicate and open up to each other. And I absolutely loved how the found family aspect was done in this book and I would love to be an honorary member of it as well.
 
Overall, Wild Blades has it all and I’m completely obsessed with Kali and Wade‘s story. More than highly recommend this book.
5+ stars.

[thebeespot72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe I might be a convert of the reverse age gap trope. I am about 2 for two, adding VH Nicolson's "Wild Blades" to my shelf.

Wade has been struggling more than usual lately due to recent events. The team leaders believe Wade needs help, and so does his image. In steps Kali and she is so perfect for him. Though their age difference is about ten years, I didn't find an overwhelming power dynamic between the two as there usually is in traditional age gap stories, and I liked that for this story. Yes, Kali was Wade's publicist and told him what to do, but in the bedroom, things were different—sometimes.

The spice scenes were very well written, and a few shminky shmink surprises were thrown in there, too. But "Wild Blades" was an emotional story as well. I must say that "Wild Blades" had my heart in my throat, and tears welled up in my eyes countless times. I enjoyed this story so much. It was the perfect HEA.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely incredible book. I have no words for how brilliantly written this book was. Frozen flames was my first book by this amazing author, this 2nd book in the series was absolutely amazing!
Wade and Kali were absolutely amazing together. I loved their chemistry from their very first interaction. I loved watching them fall for each other.
There was quite the journey to their HEA, but it was so beautifully written. I loved this book so so much it made my heart so happy. There were some twists and turns in this book that were so beyond amazing. These 2 characters are so beautiful together.
What a beautiful book. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
5 stars

[Tasha_loves_to_read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my. This story was absolutely beautiful.
Wade was so broken and lost and had lost his way, all he needed was the right person show him that he could be better and also do better. His person was Kali. And what a stunning whirlwind she is. And the spice was on point. She knew what he needed. I adored their story and it times it wasn't easy but such a pleasure to read your words Vicki ♥️

[Marianne Syme · Rating 5 out of 5]

As expected, you are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions before we get to the HEA

Wade and Kali go through so much, and twists and turns, which are just brilliantly woven into the story

I didn't think I would fall hard for Wade, but seeing how his behaviour was just because of his circumstances my heart just broke for him x

Highly recommend x

[Emma Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!

I always love VH Nicolson’s books, they have plot and spice and Wild Blades is no different… possible her best book to date. No spoilers here but Wade Collins and Kali Roth are hot together, a great storyline with curveballs you do not see coming that’s for sure!
Loved everything about it and highly recommend this reverse age gap, strangers to lovers, ice hockey, forced proximity with dark secrets to boot!! Go read now!!

[Mary-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ash and Lily's story was amazing, but Wade and Kali are my new favourites.
I really enjoy this authors books and thoroughly recommend them. So good!
I can't wait for the next adventure in the Ice Hockey World.
Thank you once again VH Nicolson, you rock!

[Helene Svendsen]

Dnf at 69%

It was an arc read, but I just could not get into it. I found the book a bit shallow, and the spice cringe.

[Nicki - theromancebookstagrammer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hockey Romance at its finest!!!

I'm blown away... Wild Blades has...

Hockey Romance - my favourite genre
Reverse age-gap - and perfectly matched
Opposites attract - the chemistry is 🔥🔥🔥
Forced Proximity - Sparks fly
Loveable Broken Rogue - all the feels

I have laughed, cried (both happy and sad), and sobbed throughout this book. Wild Blades with 'Wild' Wade Collins and Kali Roth is the second instalment in the Elite Eagles series. Wade is on a path of destruction following the loss of a loved one, and Kali is brought in to help rebuild his tarnished image.

It's a beautiful tale of redemption, hope, and finding love. Wade & Kali are dynamite together. She's a retired supermodel, and he's a bad boy exterior hiding a mushy centre & a heart of gold.

The story is paced perfectly, and the plot is fantastic. There's some twists and turns along the way that keep you interested from start to finish.

Be prepared to fall in love with Wade and Kali. You're going to love them ❤️

Brilliantly written, and I'd happily recommend it to anyone.

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it so much when the MMC of a book is so in touch with his feelings and not afraid to show them 🥲 I feel like I went on such a journey with these characters that I now have a bit of a book hangover 😂🙈

I adored this second instalment of the Elite Eagles series, Kali and Wade were freaking adorable together and the tension, oh my word, the amount of times I was shouting at my kindle “just kiss already!!” 😂 their chemistry was so well written it completely hooked you in.

I love it when characters have great development throughout the book, the story flowed so beautifully and I found myself feeling so giddy at the end 🥰

Wade had been through so much, yet he was such a kind soul and so fiercely protective and passionate. Kali was the boss lady we all long to be like and I’d give anything to have her confidence! 💪🏻

I can’t recommend these books enough and I’m so excited for Jordy’s book, can we have it like now please? 😂

I was given an ARC for review and all opinions are my own. Thank you so much for the opportunity ❤️

[Allanah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

Wild Blades is your classic redemption arc of a star Hockey player who has gone off the rails. Wade is a broken boy, who has been put through the ringer in his life, and he just needs someone to show him that he is worthy. Kali is the perfect FMC for him; she is strong, she is resilient, she is an older wiser woman - yes reverse age gap action here!

There was some good character development in this story, but it did fall a little flat for me and I had to think long and hard about how I'd rate this book. Unfortunately I did not read the previous book in this series, so I was left struggling through some parts (and maybe that was the whole issue for me afterall?) - there are a LOT of characters in this universe, and there were some complex crossovers into that first story.

[Tereza Jurakova · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really? Ehm seriously? Kali as main FMC was really annoying and her attitude was worst then brat…. The ending? Pushing to much dont you think?

[C B · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow, a supermodel and an athlete. How original.

[Cat Nunez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wild Blades was a rollercoaster of emotions, but I loved Wade and Kali's story and reading their journey throughout the book. Wade was introduced in the previous book while struggling with his reputation, so I was excited to read his book and see what he was going through. He and Kali started their relationship on the wrong foot, but I loved how Kali was determined to help Wade and get him to change his personality so he could continue playing hockey with the team he loved.

Wade had a rough childhood living alone with his mother. Still, thanks to his grandfather's housekeeper Gretchen, he had someone who loved him and supported him when his mom didn't, so after she died, he didn't know how to control his emotions, and he started lashing out and hurting his career. After a year of his loss, his hockey team finally had enough of his actions, so they decided to form a team to help him and improve his reputation, and that's when he met Kali, his new publicist.

Kali used to be a model, but now she was working as a publicist, and her job was to change Wade's temperament and show people the real him. She was a wonderful heroine, and I loved how strong she was; she always stood up to Wade, and it was nice reading how she wanted to help him and how little by little, her relationship with Wade started evolving and how impossible it was for them to deny their attraction and the things they felt for each other.

They tried not to act on their chemistry at first, but they were usually together, and the pull between them was strong, so in the end, they finally admitted their feelings and gave in to the sexual tension between them. Their steamy scenes were intense and heated, and I loved how they weren't afraid to try new things and show everyone how good they were together.

Wade and Kali fell hard for each other, so I loved how they confessed their love and read how they saw a future together from the start. They faced some problems in the end, but thanks to all the drama, Wade finally knew his family and moved on from the hurt of his childhood. Kali always supported Wade, so I loved reading about their moments together and how they eventually created the family they never knew they wanted.

Their story was captivating from the start, and the side characters were amazing too. I loved Lola and her relationship with Wade, and I can't wait to read Jordy's story and see if maybe he's the one responsible for Lola's surprise.

[Gemma Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age is just a number

I’ve waited so long for this next instalment of the Elite Eagles series and I am happy to say that… I was not disappointed.

In Frozen Flames (Book 1) we met Wild Wade Collins. And he was living up to his nickname. Wild Blades takes us into the catastrophic downward spiral of Wade’s life. Once we understand the source of his anger and the reasons behind his behaviour it all becomes totally clear and understandable.

Losing the one person he’d ever felt loved him and discovering his girlfriend’s infidelity close together sends him into an abyss of depression but instead of telling the people around him who could support him, he bottles it up and shoves it down deep.

But when his violent outbursts threaten his career it looks as though he’s about to lose everything. But instead of throwing him off the team, his boss puts together a new support team just for him. And that is when he meets his new publicist… stunning ex-supermodel and now high-flying businesswoman Kali Roth. The attraction is instant, not only physically but emotionally. And her take no cr@p attitude stirs all kinds of feelings in our Hockey superstar.

Despite his initial reluctance to accept the help, when it begins to change his life, he embraces his new found inner strength and peace and lets it rebuild his confidence and his career.

With Kali by his side, guiding his every move he becomes the person he always wanted to be. The person his Gretchen always knew he could be. But… there’s a big problem on the horizon and I have to admit that gag way through, my gut told me something was going to give. It’s one of those… it’s going too well. Will the revelations send Wade back to his old ways, or will his new found way of dealing with his feelings hold true.

I love Wade. After book 1 I didn’t think I would, but he’s just so adorable and oh my goodness, he’s hot!!! Hotter than hot and when he and Kali get together it’s just a beautiful combination.

This story has everything. The ups and downs. The twists and turns. The jaw drop moments… and the extremely satisfying HEA!! Amazing. Can’t wait for Jordy’s story now.

[Mobo&#x1f338; · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid 4⭐️ read!
🌶️🌶️🌶️

This book was loaded! We first meet Wade in Frozen Flames and tbh we get to see how self destructive he was then, but now reading about him and his background, there’s no way you can’t fall in love with this man. I just want to give him the biggest hug!

The prologue already told me all I need to know about this man! He went through a whole lot because of the adults in his life mistakes! The only person he had on his side and pretty much became a parent to him was Gretchen.

We slowly see how he works to pick himself up with the help of Marcus and the team he put together for him! How he decides to do better for himself because of how much he loves hockey and Gretchen’s presence in his childhood🥹🥹. I love how Wade wanted to be better for himself rather than be better just so he won’t be kicked out of the team, even though that was still one of his reasons😂.

And Kali, omg I loved her character! She had a lot of depth to her character and she was a whole breath of fresh air into Wade’s life! Reading about them, they seemed so connected that you even forgot there was an age gap between them, well except it was brought up. Kali had Wade’s back from the beginning and I love how she never wavered on that! She believed and saw so much in him even when he doubted himself. Also Kali faced her own issues which Wade helped with especially with her sleazy ex (but I shall not talk about him).

These two were clearly made for each other for sure. I thought a lot about the potential plot twist, having some speculations so when it finally happened, I was still a bit shocked tbh. There was a lot of drama and family issues to get through towards the end and I’ll like to knock Wade over the head for how he treated Kali at the end. However, he made up for it and their end was sooo beautiful. I teared up at their vows 🥹🥹❤️❤️

The epilogue was just everything I needed! Seeing them with their family and being together, oh I loved this very much!!

This was an arc read and I really enjoyed it!😭

[Mayville (Tourbiez Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Wild Stars✨
4 Spices🌶️

"I hate you. I hate how you make me feel. I hate that I will never be good enough for you. I hate how much I want to change to be a better man for you. I hate how much I know I should stay away from you, but can't stop myself. I hate how much I want to kiss you... I'm tired of denying how I feel about you." - Wade Collins

VH Nicolson's Wild Blades is an evocative exploration of love, redemption, introspection and healing. The narrative of the story is skillfully woven to cover a wide range of topics, such as rejection, grief, emotional upheavals, and the profound repercussions of infidelity.

"I love you, Wade. More than you'll ever know. I would do anything for you. Anything to keep you safe. Anything to protect you. I would walk through hell for you. Believe me when I say that." - Kali Roth

Wade Collins' behaviour is spiralling out of control after losing a loved one and undergoing infidelity, jeopardizing his hockey career. Rather than dismissing him, the team management has chosen to assemble a unit of supporters, including publicist Kali Roth, to help him reorient his career and his life.
Kali, a former model who launched her own public relations firm, is arduous and tenacious when dealing with challenging celebrities. She struggles with her age-related self-esteem issues after her husband cheated on her with a younger model, even though her aura exudes a strong and confident personality.

The consequences of his mother's rejection and lack of affection throughout his life have contributed to Wade's surly and uncaring demeanour. The death of the woman who raised him and the deception of his ex-girlfriend solidified his conviction that he was destined to live alone. That is until Kali broke through his barriers and revealed the damaged and forlorn man he was. Due to their frequent working arrangements, Wade and Kali's relationship has progressed from a business partnership to a profound and forbidden romance. Wade was able to reassure Kali by being candid with her and consistent in his pursuit of her. Although they were able to maintain their anonymity for a while, their relationship has been tested in the wake of multiple revelations regarding Wade's life. With a little assistance from his mentors and an unexpected character, Wade managed to navigate his new identity and find some happiness with Kali.

The book's greatest strength is its potential to appeal to readers who enjoy emotionally charged narratives and a plot full of angst and chemistry. Wade's viewpoint provides a distinctive prism through which readers can observe the behavioural shift brought about by his life experience. Kali, however, is a welcome change of pace. Not only is her character's age difference ideal for Wade, but Wade also benefited from her fortitude, optimism, and narratives about her life experiences, which served as a good example of how to live with the person you love.

With the exception of a few minor concerns with the book's pacing toward the final few chapters, the entire story was stunning and an emotional ride filled with shocks and unexpected twists as well as well-developed characters. You won't want to miss the epilogue or the bonus epilogue.
I am now eager to read Lola and Jordy's story, and I know that I will see more of Kali and Wade in the upcoming book.