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Dating a Denver Dragon #3
Double Duty Defense
The Denver Darling’s star goaltender, Greer Morgan, is in a rut that’s beginning to impact her game. Ever since high school, she’s sacrificed love, friendship, and adventure to focus on one thing—soccer. But life isn’t fulfilling when you spend it alone, so her teammates encourage her to find someone to help her liven up her life by dating again. Evander Calloway needs to find his focus. The Denver Dragons are one missed goal away from benching him, bit it’s hard to focus on the game when your life is going up in flames at every turn—and his ex is the one lighting everything on fire. His teammates force him to go on a blind date, but he doesn’t expect the sparks that fly when he meets Greer. When Greer discovers Evander is her first date, she almost bails but decides there’s no reason she can’t go toe to toe with the world’s most obnoxious and narcissistic goaltender—for a stupid sport played by a bunch of goons. Their date goes from bad to worse, making front page news before the night is over, and they both vow to never speak to one another again. Except… Greer can’t stop thinking about how fighting with Evander was the distraction she needed to loosen up. Evander’s focus is back, but it’s not on the game. It’s on Greer and what it might be like to kiss a Darling.
Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2024
60 people are currently reading
580 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Padgett
74 books200 followersM. J. Padgett is first and foremost a mom. Her free-spirited daughter has quite the vivid imagination, and her antics sometimes find their way into her mommy’s work. She is a lover of all things chocolate, a Grimm and Dickens addict, a self-proclaimed smarty-pants, and an introvert to the core.
Writing is her true passion (after raising her daughter, of course), and she writes as often as possible. One of her favorite things about writing is creating a world where people can escape reality for a little while, maybe even walk away feeling hopeful about the real world around them. When it comes to reading, she loves a book that can make her forget where she is no matter the genre. If she can get lost and feel like the characters are her real friends, she’s a happy reader.
Writing is her true passion (after raising her daughter, of course), and she writes as often as possible. One of her favorite things about writing is creating a world where people can escape reality for a little while, maybe even walk away feeling hopeful about the real world around them. When it comes to reading, she loves a book that can make her forget where she is no matter the genre. If she can get lost and feel like the characters are her real friends, she’s a happy reader.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 27, 2024
Oh my hockey sticks!!! This book…there are no words. This series just keeps getting better and better! This was my first read by MJ and now I’m a lifelong fan!! This book is dripping with sizzling chemistry, tension, heart-stopping kisses and sweet friendships! I could not put it down!
Greer and Evander brought all the feels! From their first moment together on the page, I knew it was gonna be a wild ride! They were enemies/rivals to lovers with all the heat and passion behind that tension! Every time they were around each other sparks would fly, both the dangerous and good kinds! But when those sparks finally ignite, look out!! 🔥🔥Let’s just say, angry kisses are some of my new fav kisses! 😉
I really enjoyed the duo sports in this book. Greer and Evander were both goalies for soccer and hockey, and it was fun seeing all the elements that go with both. When they are given a challenge to play each other’s positions, they have to train each other, which gets very interesting. I loved how they both were strong in their own sports and helped each other become better. And it helped them to have respect for their sports by walking in each other’s shoes.
Evander had such a sweet heart and I loved his protectiveness of Greer. He was the sunshine she needed in her life. Greer was a complex character who I loved from the beginning. I don’t always like when the FMC is grumpy, but M.J. wrote did it well! Greer had past traumas that caused her to be the person she was, and Evander slowly broke down her walls. It was beautiful to see them both trust the Lord to lead them.
And how about those Denver Dragons and Darlings!!! This book was filled to the brim with sweet friendships on all sides! They were all so supportive of each other and surrounded Greer and Evander with all the love that true friends show. I can’t wait to be back with the Denver Dragons again and see what’s in store next!
If you love a good swoony hockey romance that you will get lost in and never want to leave, then this gem is for you!!!
Things I Loved:
🏒Blind date
🏒Reverse grump/sunshine
🏒Enemies to lovers
🏒That first kiss!!!🔥🔥🔥
🏒All the tension
🏒Mud puddle
🏒Supportive friends
🏒The locker room
🏒Scrabble
🏒Date nights in
🏒The Sweetest Epilogue ever!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Greer and Evander brought all the feels! From their first moment together on the page, I knew it was gonna be a wild ride! They were enemies/rivals to lovers with all the heat and passion behind that tension! Every time they were around each other sparks would fly, both the dangerous and good kinds! But when those sparks finally ignite, look out!! 🔥🔥Let’s just say, angry kisses are some of my new fav kisses! 😉
I really enjoyed the duo sports in this book. Greer and Evander were both goalies for soccer and hockey, and it was fun seeing all the elements that go with both. When they are given a challenge to play each other’s positions, they have to train each other, which gets very interesting. I loved how they both were strong in their own sports and helped each other become better. And it helped them to have respect for their sports by walking in each other’s shoes.
Evander had such a sweet heart and I loved his protectiveness of Greer. He was the sunshine she needed in her life. Greer was a complex character who I loved from the beginning. I don’t always like when the FMC is grumpy, but M.J. wrote did it well! Greer had past traumas that caused her to be the person she was, and Evander slowly broke down her walls. It was beautiful to see them both trust the Lord to lead them.
And how about those Denver Dragons and Darlings!!! This book was filled to the brim with sweet friendships on all sides! They were all so supportive of each other and surrounded Greer and Evander with all the love that true friends show. I can’t wait to be back with the Denver Dragons again and see what’s in store next!
If you love a good swoony hockey romance that you will get lost in and never want to leave, then this gem is for you!!!
Things I Loved:
🏒Blind date
🏒Reverse grump/sunshine
🏒Enemies to lovers
🏒That first kiss!!!🔥🔥🔥
🏒All the tension
🏒Mud puddle
🏒Supportive friends
🏒The locker room
🏒Scrabble
🏒Date nights in
🏒The Sweetest Epilogue ever!!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 28, 2024
Sparks fly when the Denver Darling’s and the Denver Dragons’ goalies match up in an unforgettable game of wits, talent and attraction.
Greer has the toughest shell ever surrounding her trauma-filled heart and every joke, jab, or even look from Evander (Vander) comes off as completely irritating. The enemies-to-love vibe is extremely strong with this one, but that only leads to one of the hottest first kisses ever, since it’s completely soaking in intense passion. The volatile emotion quickly captured my interest and by the end, I couldn’t get enough of prickly Greer and ooey, gooey Vander.
While this couple unintentionally trends on socials, a challenge is formed to appease their fans, and who could shy away from a dare? Not this duo! Although they had an obvious underlying connection, I was a little nervous about how they could pull this off because every interaction seemed to end in a cat fight. I had no idea how they could possibly work together and find friendship, camaraderie or more, but have no fear–this author does a great job achieving the desired effect.
This is a series I’m in love with and it was so much fun to get the story of Greer and Vander.
Content/TW: kissing (passion); mentions of God and prayer; mentions of family member who had struggles/death
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Greer has the toughest shell ever surrounding her trauma-filled heart and every joke, jab, or even look from Evander (Vander) comes off as completely irritating. The enemies-to-love vibe is extremely strong with this one, but that only leads to one of the hottest first kisses ever, since it’s completely soaking in intense passion. The volatile emotion quickly captured my interest and by the end, I couldn’t get enough of prickly Greer and ooey, gooey Vander.
While this couple unintentionally trends on socials, a challenge is formed to appease their fans, and who could shy away from a dare? Not this duo! Although they had an obvious underlying connection, I was a little nervous about how they could pull this off because every interaction seemed to end in a cat fight. I had no idea how they could possibly work together and find friendship, camaraderie or more, but have no fear–this author does a great job achieving the desired effect.
This is a series I’m in love with and it was so much fun to get the story of Greer and Vander.
Content/TW: kissing (passion); mentions of God and prayer; mentions of family member who had struggles/death
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
February 16, 2024
I am having a hard time putting into words how much I loved this book!! I pushed off my adult responsibilities more than once so I could read more of it. Evander and Greer are one of my favorites enemies to more couples! They have the best banter and that was one of the best first enemies to more kiss 🔥!! I love how they were drawn to each other even when they are both trying to fight it. So much resistance! And they get in the best trouble together! Evander has such a sweet heart but can also be so snarky. Greer has been through a lot and carried a lot of weight on her shoulders. She had some great character growth after going back and forth a bit. They were so good for each other! Some of my favorite parts was the first kiss, the mud fight, and the adorable grandpas at the tavern with the best advice! Lots of romance, sizzling kisses, character growth, and sports action! This is my first MJ Padgett book but it will definitely not be my last!!
February 28, 2024
I'm definitely in my hockey romance era.
Double Duty Defense is a clean enemies to lovers. The 2 MCs were such strong enemies it was fun to see them leave the vitriol behind.
I loved that this story had 2 sports stars. The MMC was a hockey goalie and the FMC was a soccer goalie. This was such good representation of strong women and made for some fun (and funny) competition.
This is my first book by this author and I will definitely read more.
Double Duty Defense is a clean enemies to lovers. The 2 MCs were such strong enemies it was fun to see them leave the vitriol behind.
I loved that this story had 2 sports stars. The MMC was a hockey goalie and the FMC was a soccer goalie. This was such good representation of strong women and made for some fun (and funny) competition.
This is my first book by this author and I will definitely read more.
February 27, 2024
Are you the type of person who puts so much pressure on herself (or himself) that you feel like you have to be perfect? I definitely am. I don't know if that's because I'm a firstborn, or because my dad's a pastor, or because I'm the firstborn of two firstborns, or a combination of all of that, but I have always been that person.
So is Greer. She had high expectations for herself, but because of a promise she made to her big sister. And she let that promise rule her life for far too long.
You know, I love a good strong main female character, but what I like even more is when that character owns up to her mistakes and weaknesses.
This book. You may think you're getting a fun romcom, and you are. But there's a major twist you just don't see coming. I'm not sure how this is my first book by MJ, but I have my eyes on her fantasy books now!
And MJ? Sorry, not sorry about those ellipses.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
So is Greer. She had high expectations for herself, but because of a promise she made to her big sister. And she let that promise rule her life for far too long.
You know, I love a good strong main female character, but what I like even more is when that character owns up to her mistakes and weaknesses.
This book. You may think you're getting a fun romcom, and you are. But there's a major twist you just don't see coming. I'm not sure how this is my first book by MJ, but I have my eyes on her fantasy books now!
And MJ? Sorry, not sorry about those ellipses.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
February 27, 2024
“Soccer and hockey are nothing alike, and the day I take tips from you, a guy who gets hit in the head with frozen rubber on the regular, I’ll hang up my cleats.”
This is the first book I’ve read by M.J. Padgett, and it did not disappoint! I really enjoy sports romances but I think this is the first time I’ve read one where the FMC and MMC were both athletes, and I loved it!
Greer and Evander were great together. I loved how after initially butting heads, they came together with such a swoony romance and were so cute and supportive of each other.
I appreciated the growth arc of both characters, and their teammates really added to the fun.
If you like clean sports romances, I highly recommend this one.
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
This is the first book I’ve read by M.J. Padgett, and it did not disappoint! I really enjoy sports romances but I think this is the first time I’ve read one where the FMC and MMC were both athletes, and I loved it!
Greer and Evander were great together. I loved how after initially butting heads, they came together with such a swoony romance and were so cute and supportive of each other.
I appreciated the growth arc of both characters, and their teammates really added to the fun.
If you like clean sports romances, I highly recommend this one.
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
February 29, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
From relatable characters, the perfect balance of romance & comedy, and deep themes that resonate hard—this book has it all!
Evander & Greer were so cute. Fast enemies to lovers but honestly adorable. And a fake(ish) relationship between a soccer goalie and a hockey goalie? Well! It was fun to see them come to appreciate & respect each other’s sports. 😉 Plus, there’s some pretty solid marriage & dating advice the older men drop on the hockey guys, in a scene that was pretty sweet!
Also, Aiden and his friendship with Evan stole the show (in a good way). Always love an Irish chap especially when he’s a charming sweetheart!
From relatable characters, the perfect balance of romance & comedy, and deep themes that resonate hard—this book has it all!
Evander & Greer were so cute. Fast enemies to lovers but honestly adorable. And a fake(ish) relationship between a soccer goalie and a hockey goalie? Well! It was fun to see them come to appreciate & respect each other’s sports. 😉 Plus, there’s some pretty solid marriage & dating advice the older men drop on the hockey guys, in a scene that was pretty sweet!
Also, Aiden and his friendship with Evan stole the show (in a good way). Always love an Irish chap especially when he’s a charming sweetheart!
August 9, 2024
I liked this one more than Cross Check Crush. The tropes are much more my style. Still, I give it 4⭐️ because I wish there was more of them actually being together after the challenge. Greer’s 3rd act plot twist adds to the story but felt a little rushed through.
March 2, 2024
This book. Absolutely loved it. It wasn’t just that it was a hockey book. Ok, I mostly promise that wasn’t the only reason. Greer plays soccer so this is a true sports romance. But it was just so emotionally driven and romantic. I was there for all the feels and liked this new to me author @m.j.padgett_romance @m.j.padgett
Greer and Evander do not like each other and try to prove time and time again that they are the better athlete. When they get forced to get along the ice starts to melt and the turf catches on fire.
Examples:
🏒mud
⚽️Vander goal tending for soccer
🏒Greer goal tending for hockey
⚽️ice rink kiss
🏒texting
⚽️heartfelt conversations
🏒playing games
⚽️THE ENDING!!
This is part of a series but stands alone. However, I’m all in and loving every book so don’t leave one out. See if enemies can turn to friends and maybe kiss instead of shout. Rounding up because it was just so enjoyable!
Greer and Evander do not like each other and try to prove time and time again that they are the better athlete. When they get forced to get along the ice starts to melt and the turf catches on fire.
Examples:
🏒mud
⚽️Vander goal tending for soccer
🏒Greer goal tending for hockey
⚽️ice rink kiss
🏒texting
⚽️heartfelt conversations
🏒playing games
⚽️THE ENDING!!
This is part of a series but stands alone. However, I’m all in and loving every book so don’t leave one out. See if enemies can turn to friends and maybe kiss instead of shout. Rounding up because it was just so enjoyable!
February 27, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Greer & Evander‘s points of view
– it is mentioned that Greer’s sister passed away due to cancer after having dealt with other issues
– there are some mentions of faith in God and praying to Him
Review:
I’ve been wanting to read one of M. J. Padgett’s contemporary romances for awhile now, and now that I’ve finally picked one up I am so ready to read more of them! I loved Greer & Evander so much! I loved that they were both works in progress, within their romantic lives and their regular on their own lives. I loved that they stumbled in what they work towards and pushed each other to be better both by just showing up for each other and by teasing one another. I loved that they ended up getting pushed together into a challenge that made them literally walk in each other’s shoes and see just how difficult their jobs were when it came to comparing theirs to the other person’s. I loved Greer’s support system/friends that were also her teammates. They were the perfect people to help Greer get past and through her doubts when it came to if things were real between her and Evander. I also loved Evander’s friends/teammates and I’m excited that we will be getting Aiden’s story later in this series with how much of him we got to see in this book. I’m curious to find out if Evander will be as prominent as Aiden was within Aiden’s story, and where Evander & Greer will be at in their lives together by then!
Summary:
Greer Morgan is the Denver Darling’s goaltender who’s sole focus is bring her soccer team all the way, but she’s gotten herself stuck in a rut and worries that she’ll be a detriment to her team. Her friends know she needs to get outside of her own head and suggests that she attend a blind date, giving her absolutely no insight into the man she’d be meeting. When Greer finally makes it to the restaurant, she realizes why her friends didn’t tell her. Because had Greer known, she never would have shown up. Evander is infuriating and can’t seem to stop commenting on her game and giving advice on a sport he doesn’t play. They have nothing in common beyond keeping the other team from scoring in their sports’ goal. But this blind date might just set them and their careers over the edge…
Evander hasn’t been able to focus after his ex-girlfriend cheated on him, broke his heart, and has been portraying herself as the victim to the public. It’s been affecting his game so much, that he and his hockey teammates worry that coach will bench him. In an effort to help, Evander’s teammates set him up with a blind date. When Greer is the lucky lady to walk in to the restaurant, Evander isn’t sure how their date will go. Because though Evander is thrilled to get a chance to get to know Greer better, he also knows that Greer can’t stand him. When their date ends in flames, Evander fears that they’ll never be able to be anything other than enemies. But he might have another chance when they are both presented with an opportunity to help not only their image, but that of their teams in the form of a public challenge…
I received an ARC from the author & am not required to leave a positive review.
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Greer & Evander‘s points of view
– it is mentioned that Greer’s sister passed away due to cancer after having dealt with other issues
– there are some mentions of faith in God and praying to Him
Review:
I’ve been wanting to read one of M. J. Padgett’s contemporary romances for awhile now, and now that I’ve finally picked one up I am so ready to read more of them! I loved Greer & Evander so much! I loved that they were both works in progress, within their romantic lives and their regular on their own lives. I loved that they stumbled in what they work towards and pushed each other to be better both by just showing up for each other and by teasing one another. I loved that they ended up getting pushed together into a challenge that made them literally walk in each other’s shoes and see just how difficult their jobs were when it came to comparing theirs to the other person’s. I loved Greer’s support system/friends that were also her teammates. They were the perfect people to help Greer get past and through her doubts when it came to if things were real between her and Evander. I also loved Evander’s friends/teammates and I’m excited that we will be getting Aiden’s story later in this series with how much of him we got to see in this book. I’m curious to find out if Evander will be as prominent as Aiden was within Aiden’s story, and where Evander & Greer will be at in their lives together by then!
Summary:
Greer Morgan is the Denver Darling’s goaltender who’s sole focus is bring her soccer team all the way, but she’s gotten herself stuck in a rut and worries that she’ll be a detriment to her team. Her friends know she needs to get outside of her own head and suggests that she attend a blind date, giving her absolutely no insight into the man she’d be meeting. When Greer finally makes it to the restaurant, she realizes why her friends didn’t tell her. Because had Greer known, she never would have shown up. Evander is infuriating and can’t seem to stop commenting on her game and giving advice on a sport he doesn’t play. They have nothing in common beyond keeping the other team from scoring in their sports’ goal. But this blind date might just set them and their careers over the edge…
Evander hasn’t been able to focus after his ex-girlfriend cheated on him, broke his heart, and has been portraying herself as the victim to the public. It’s been affecting his game so much, that he and his hockey teammates worry that coach will bench him. In an effort to help, Evander’s teammates set him up with a blind date. When Greer is the lucky lady to walk in to the restaurant, Evander isn’t sure how their date will go. Because though Evander is thrilled to get a chance to get to know Greer better, he also knows that Greer can’t stand him. When their date ends in flames, Evander fears that they’ll never be able to be anything other than enemies. But he might have another chance when they are both presented with an opportunity to help not only their image, but that of their teams in the form of a public challenge…
I received an ARC from the author & am not required to leave a positive review.
February 15, 2024
This was the first book I've read from M.J. Padgett and will definitely now be going back to read her other novels! She absolutely nailed this book and I could not put it down. I easily finished it in one day and just fell in love with it!
I loved the dynamics of Evander and Greer's relationship! I love that it started as a true rivals to lovers situation but that the entire time they had this underlying tension and attraction towards each other. I loved that in this book both MCs were professional athletes in their own right and that they were both strong in their own ways.
I loved Evander for his sweet heart and that he just wanted to protect and care for Greer. I loved that he supported her even when he was confused by his feelings and by hers. I loved that he turned to God for help as well as his parents for direction in his life.
I loved Greer for how complicated a character that she was. I loved that she was battling through past trauma and trying to decide how she wanted to live her life. I love that she was able to truly find what was important in life with Evander's help. I loved that we got to see her let her walls down and trust in God and in Evander. It takes a lot of talent to write a grumpy FMC and get it right. But MJ definitely made Greer relatable and easy to love despite her rough edges.
If you are looking for a romcom that has that has great banter, lots of swoony kisses, so much tension and the perfect blend of Hockey and Soccer give this one a go!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2.5
Zero Swearing
Dual POV
Christian Aspects
I loved the dynamics of Evander and Greer's relationship! I love that it started as a true rivals to lovers situation but that the entire time they had this underlying tension and attraction towards each other. I loved that in this book both MCs were professional athletes in their own right and that they were both strong in their own ways.
I loved Evander for his sweet heart and that he just wanted to protect and care for Greer. I loved that he supported her even when he was confused by his feelings and by hers. I loved that he turned to God for help as well as his parents for direction in his life.
I loved Greer for how complicated a character that she was. I loved that she was battling through past trauma and trying to decide how she wanted to live her life. I love that she was able to truly find what was important in life with Evander's help. I loved that we got to see her let her walls down and trust in God and in Evander. It takes a lot of talent to write a grumpy FMC and get it right. But MJ definitely made Greer relatable and easy to love despite her rough edges.
If you are looking for a romcom that has that has great banter, lots of swoony kisses, so much tension and the perfect blend of Hockey and Soccer give this one a go!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2.5
Zero Swearing
Dual POV
Christian Aspects
March 1, 2024
I really don’t know where to start with this review. I’ve never read any books by MJ but now I want to binge read everything!! Evander ( Vander) and Greer are one of my all time favorite couples! Like, I was laughing and grinning and swooning and crying while reading this absolute gem. Their banter was off the charts and their first kiss was 🫠🔥!!
I knew from all the teasers that this book was going to catch my attention but I’m blown away. For this to be a sports romcom, it touched me so much! I saw so much of myself in the earlier Greer. The irrational anger that someone can trigger is so spot on.
When Bridger told Vander to give her grace, I about lost it! It’s a fiery yet sweet love story, where they grow and let God lead them on this new path together. I can’t wait to catch glimpses of them throughout the rest of this series!
I knew from all the teasers that this book was going to catch my attention but I’m blown away. For this to be a sports romcom, it touched me so much! I saw so much of myself in the earlier Greer. The irrational anger that someone can trigger is so spot on.
When Bridger told Vander to give her grace, I about lost it! It’s a fiery yet sweet love story, where they grow and let God lead them on this new path together. I can’t wait to catch glimpses of them throughout the rest of this series!
February 27, 2024
Absolutely loved this book!! Greer and Vander absolutely despise each other. So, what happens when they run into each other in a grocery store and kiss? Then they’re in a challenge against each other to force them to fall in love? Will they fall for real? Read this book and find out!!!! Crushed it!!!!!
December 4, 2024
Double Duty Defense is a wonderful enemies to more story! It’s the third book of the Dating a Denver Dragon series, but could easily be picked up and enjoyed as a stand alone novel, too. I am really enjoying reading through this series.
When the story began, it was clear that Greer and Evander had been trading sarcastic digs at each other for a couple of years, whenever their paths crossed. What wasn’t as clear was why. Evander seemed to think it was all in fun and Greer appeared to take each dig very personally and responded with sharp and cutting digs of her own toward Evander. For their first couple of encounters in the book, it was evident that these two had fallen into a pattern of quickly reacting in frustration to whatever the other person had said or done. I appreciated that once Evander realized that Greer actually carried some hurt over these interactions, he apologized and began to try to make things right. His reaction helped things begin to move onto a different path for both of them.
Evander’s good heart began to really show itself in this story and that impacted Greer a lot. I loved seeing her realize what a good guy he was. These two had so much in common and their romantic relationship built in a fun way throughout the novel. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this series. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I am excited to read more.
(4.5 stars)
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
When the story began, it was clear that Greer and Evander had been trading sarcastic digs at each other for a couple of years, whenever their paths crossed. What wasn’t as clear was why. Evander seemed to think it was all in fun and Greer appeared to take each dig very personally and responded with sharp and cutting digs of her own toward Evander. For their first couple of encounters in the book, it was evident that these two had fallen into a pattern of quickly reacting in frustration to whatever the other person had said or done. I appreciated that once Evander realized that Greer actually carried some hurt over these interactions, he apologized and began to try to make things right. His reaction helped things begin to move onto a different path for both of them.
Evander’s good heart began to really show itself in this story and that impacted Greer a lot. I loved seeing her realize what a good guy he was. These two had so much in common and their romantic relationship built in a fun way throughout the novel. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this series. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I am excited to read more.
(4.5 stars)
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 2, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Not as good as the first but still cute
Not as good as the first but still cute
March 22, 2024
I absolutely loved Evander & Greer's fiery, irritating, sweet, caring, loving, swoony story!!
February 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this sweet and fun story. The story was engaging. At first I assumed that it would be fairly predictable, but there were a few plot points that caught me by surprise and added drama to the story. Greer was the goaltender for the women’s soccer team, the Denver Darlings. She and Evander, the goalie on the Denver Dragons hockey team had a history of explosive negative encounters. “We push each other to the edge, then right over it with a swift kick.” When their respective teammates set them up on an ill-fated blind date, the resulting explosion incinerated too many bridges, but the aftermath revealed that perhaps there was more to their feelings than hate. “I could fall so hard and fast for this man. I think my heart knew that, so I worked so hard to keep him at a distance. The taunting, teasing, fighting with him was all my brain’s last-ditch effort to protect my heart.” And the change just might be the key to helping both of them get out of their heads and perform in their sports.
There were some fun details to the story. I liked the interactions within the teams, as well as between them. Entertaining, teasing, and supportive. The main characters were great and there were many engaging secondary characters. I loved the challenge idea. It was creative and added such a fun element to the story. It was also interesting how the story sort of turned the idea of a PR relationship on its head and addressed it in a different way, and with more earnest sincerity than most books. I did feel like the attention on the main characters was a little exaggerated in the earlier parts of the story. “‘Frankly, I’m not sure why the world cares so much about what you do.’” But hey, it’s fiction, right?
This book is part of a multi-author series focused on the Denver Dragons hockey team. There is some carryover, but this book can easily be read as a standalone. There are some elements in the story involving manipulation, cheating by a secondary character, and isolated off-the-page violence. Light Christian faith themes are integrated organically into the story. This is a sweet and clean story with no harsh language.
There were some fun details to the story. I liked the interactions within the teams, as well as between them. Entertaining, teasing, and supportive. The main characters were great and there were many engaging secondary characters. I loved the challenge idea. It was creative and added such a fun element to the story. It was also interesting how the story sort of turned the idea of a PR relationship on its head and addressed it in a different way, and with more earnest sincerity than most books. I did feel like the attention on the main characters was a little exaggerated in the earlier parts of the story. “‘Frankly, I’m not sure why the world cares so much about what you do.’” But hey, it’s fiction, right?
This book is part of a multi-author series focused on the Denver Dragons hockey team. There is some carryover, but this book can easily be read as a standalone. There are some elements in the story involving manipulation, cheating by a secondary character, and isolated off-the-page violence. Light Christian faith themes are integrated organically into the story. This is a sweet and clean story with no harsh language.
April 1, 2024
This one was decent the characters just felt immature. Read more like a YA novel to me.
July 31, 2024
3.5 🌟. I enjoyed the rivalry between Evander and Greer, but I had a hard time liking Greer as a character, and thus couldn't get emotionally invested in this romance.
March 21, 2024
This is my first M.J. Padgett book and I hope it won’t be my last! I remember when early hype was going around for this book, and I saw some things that caught my eye! Now that I’ve read the book, I can tell you that it lived up to it!
Evander is the loyal goaltender for the Denver Dragons hockey team, who has been losing his edge! Yet his teammates are determined to help him get it back and bounce back from the latest antics from his ex! This man is more than meets the eye behind his ‘cool guy’ persona is a man of depth, love, and compassion!
Greer is the fierce goaltender of the Denver Darlings soccer team! This girl puts her heart on the line every game as she fights hard to keep the team’s run for the championship alive! She’s loving and loyal to those in her inner circle, that circle doesn’t include her “biggest critic,” Evander! Yet, the tension boils over and now she must “challenge” herself off the field as well and for the cameras! Evander and Greer are officially being shipped as an upcoming athletic power couple!
Fire and ice personify this pairing through and through! Or better yet lightning in a bottle! While their banter is heavy at the beginning, it turns into something far greater than I saw coming! All it takes is one person/moment to bend ever so slightly to turn the tables into magic! This book takes the idea of putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and flips on its head to help generate publicity for each of the protags sporting teams and boy does it make for a lot of fun! Loved catching glimpses of future series leading characters and the other randoms who help make up this small section of Denver! Never thought I could love a multi-sport book so much! Oh and those kisses that were hinted at were no laughing matter – fanning oneself!
Evander is the loyal goaltender for the Denver Dragons hockey team, who has been losing his edge! Yet his teammates are determined to help him get it back and bounce back from the latest antics from his ex! This man is more than meets the eye behind his ‘cool guy’ persona is a man of depth, love, and compassion!
Greer is the fierce goaltender of the Denver Darlings soccer team! This girl puts her heart on the line every game as she fights hard to keep the team’s run for the championship alive! She’s loving and loyal to those in her inner circle, that circle doesn’t include her “biggest critic,” Evander! Yet, the tension boils over and now she must “challenge” herself off the field as well and for the cameras! Evander and Greer are officially being shipped as an upcoming athletic power couple!
Fire and ice personify this pairing through and through! Or better yet lightning in a bottle! While their banter is heavy at the beginning, it turns into something far greater than I saw coming! All it takes is one person/moment to bend ever so slightly to turn the tables into magic! This book takes the idea of putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and flips on its head to help generate publicity for each of the protags sporting teams and boy does it make for a lot of fun! Loved catching glimpses of future series leading characters and the other randoms who help make up this small section of Denver! Never thought I could love a multi-sport book so much! Oh and those kisses that were hinted at were no laughing matter – fanning oneself!
February 22, 2024
3/5 Stars - Enjoyable hockey romance
Double Duty Defense by M.J. Padgett is a clean hockey romance and part of the Dating A Denver Dragon series. It’s a sweet romance between a hockey player, Evander Calloway, and a soccer player, Greer Morgan. When the book starts, the two are pretty much enemies. While Evander believes that it’s all in good fun, their banter is pretty angry and almost always escalates.
While I’m all for arguments (even hurtful ones) that hide a layer of romantic tension, I had a hard time picturing the two as dating when I started reading. They seemed to fight too easily, and it was difficult for me to believe that their shift from hurtful barbs to well-meaning banter would actually work. In that sense, it felt a little fast (however, I did love the parking lot scene).
Although speaking of escalations, that plot twist at the end was so flipping unexpected. I was genuinely shocked. I’m obviously not going to tell you what happened, so let’s talk about some other stuff.
Characters: Greer and Evander were both nice, but I didn’t get supper attached to either of them (that’s just me, though). I did like how supportive their respective friend groups were, even if some of the messages were a little on the nose (they were still great messages, so I can’t really complain).
In summary, Double Duty Defense is a really sweet book, but not all of it landed right with me, personally. However, if you’re a fan of hockey romances, you should definitely check out Double Duty Defense and the rest of the Dating A Denver Dragon series.
Thank you, M.J. Padgett for providing me with an ARC of Double Duty Defense in exchange for an honest review
Double Duty Defense by M.J. Padgett is a clean hockey romance and part of the Dating A Denver Dragon series. It’s a sweet romance between a hockey player, Evander Calloway, and a soccer player, Greer Morgan. When the book starts, the two are pretty much enemies. While Evander believes that it’s all in good fun, their banter is pretty angry and almost always escalates.
While I’m all for arguments (even hurtful ones) that hide a layer of romantic tension, I had a hard time picturing the two as dating when I started reading. They seemed to fight too easily, and it was difficult for me to believe that their shift from hurtful barbs to well-meaning banter would actually work. In that sense, it felt a little fast (however, I did love the parking lot scene).
Although speaking of escalations, that plot twist at the end was so flipping unexpected. I was genuinely shocked. I’m obviously not going to tell you what happened, so let’s talk about some other stuff.
Characters: Greer and Evander were both nice, but I didn’t get supper attached to either of them (that’s just me, though). I did like how supportive their respective friend groups were, even if some of the messages were a little on the nose (they were still great messages, so I can’t really complain).
In summary, Double Duty Defense is a really sweet book, but not all of it landed right with me, personally. However, if you’re a fan of hockey romances, you should definitely check out Double Duty Defense and the rest of the Dating A Denver Dragon series.
Thank you, M.J. Padgett for providing me with an ARC of Double Duty Defense in exchange for an honest review
January 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
GENRE
sports romance with light Christian themes
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: physical attack (off page)
This was my first book by MJ Padgett! She's been on my TBR for a long time and I'm so glad that I finally got to one of her stories. I've enjoyed the three books that I've read in this series and this one continued that pattern.
Greer and Evander are both goalies. Greer plays minor league soccer and Evander plays minor league hockey. Every time they are near each other, there is a volatile reaction, which ends in a shouting match...or even water being thrown at someone's face. While Evander was teasing, Greer was the hateful one. I had a hard time with her abrasive personality at the beginning of the book. Thankfully, she grew on me. After (another) public argument which ended up with a makeout session in a parking lot, Greer and Evander's photos are splashed on social media. Their teams' marketing specialists decide that they should switch places for a scrimmage-- Greer should be on the ice and Evander should be on the soccer field. Obviously, that involves them spending time together and you know how it goes in romances, that forced proximity works wonders. ;)
I was shocked by the ending of the story! I did not see that coming but I really loved how it worked out and how the person at fault tried to make restitution.
Favorite Quote:
❤️ And I will never admit to anyone that kissing Evander makes me forget, just for a little while, that I have to be perfect.
GENRE
sports romance with light Christian themes
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: physical attack (off page)
This was my first book by MJ Padgett! She's been on my TBR for a long time and I'm so glad that I finally got to one of her stories. I've enjoyed the three books that I've read in this series and this one continued that pattern.
Greer and Evander are both goalies. Greer plays minor league soccer and Evander plays minor league hockey. Every time they are near each other, there is a volatile reaction, which ends in a shouting match...or even water being thrown at someone's face. While Evander was teasing, Greer was the hateful one. I had a hard time with her abrasive personality at the beginning of the book. Thankfully, she grew on me. After (another) public argument which ended up with a makeout session in a parking lot, Greer and Evander's photos are splashed on social media. Their teams' marketing specialists decide that they should switch places for a scrimmage-- Greer should be on the ice and Evander should be on the soccer field. Obviously, that involves them spending time together and you know how it goes in romances, that forced proximity works wonders. ;)
I was shocked by the ending of the story! I did not see that coming but I really loved how it worked out and how the person at fault tried to make restitution.
Favorite Quote:
❤️ And I will never admit to anyone that kissing Evander makes me forget, just for a little while, that I have to be perfect.
March 24, 2024
As someone who has thought they were bantering, only to find out later that they thought I was picking, I related to the misunderstanding between Evander and Greer; however, I did struggle a little with the fact that this has been happening for years without things coming to a head. I also struggled wondering how you can come back from something like that. When one person finds out the other person has actually been spewing venom for years, trying to hurt you, that's gotta be difficult. This is discussed on page, and it is a struggle for the characters, but my personal issues made it a little bit harder to suspend disbelief on the timeline of their relationship development. Other people might not feel the same.
That being said, I loved the idea of the challenge. I loved the fact that these two elite sports people grew to understand and respect the other's talent. I loved the way they helped one another out, and the playful moments during training were super sweet. It was nice to see both of them moving past their backgrounds and growing together. I loved the themes of forgiveness woven through the story, and the relationship advice from the men at the tavern was golden!
I wasn't expecting the twist at the end, and it was super tragic. I completely understood how Greer would struggle to cope with what happened, and the resentment she would be feeling because of it.
The epilogue was really cute!
That being said, I loved the idea of the challenge. I loved the fact that these two elite sports people grew to understand and respect the other's talent. I loved the way they helped one another out, and the playful moments during training were super sweet. It was nice to see both of them moving past their backgrounds and growing together. I loved the themes of forgiveness woven through the story, and the relationship advice from the men at the tavern was golden!
I wasn't expecting the twist at the end, and it was super tragic. I completely understood how Greer would struggle to cope with what happened, and the resentment she would be feeling because of it.
The epilogue was really cute!
February 28, 2024
Double Duty Defense
MJ Padgett
This is the third book in the Dating a Denver Dragon series. This book was just as good as the first two books and the series is quickly becoming one of my favorites!
I loved the tension and banter between Evander and Greer. This was the perfect enemies to lovers story especially with the challenge mixed in.
I don’t think I’ve highlighted so much throughout a book as I have this one! There was so much depth. I loved seeing both Greer and Evander slowly open up to each other. The vulnerability Greer showed when she told Evander about her sister and the reasoning behind why she’s so closed off to love. Her sole focus being soccer and a championship win.
Over the course of the book the way both Greer and Evander evolved for the better and grew together was so sweet. And that epilogue 😍
________________________________________________
Favorite Quotes:
Talking about these things with her only makes me want her more, and it feels good. It feels right and safe. It feels like home.
“Look, kid, you’re doin’ a lot of thinkin’ for yourself when what you need to be doing is asking God to lead this one. If she’s the right girl, He will make it happen.”
________________________________________________
Read if you like:
🏒Hockey/Soccer Romance
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🏒Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒Blind Date
🏒Great friendships
🏒Closed Door Romance
MJ Padgett
This is the third book in the Dating a Denver Dragon series. This book was just as good as the first two books and the series is quickly becoming one of my favorites!
I loved the tension and banter between Evander and Greer. This was the perfect enemies to lovers story especially with the challenge mixed in.
I don’t think I’ve highlighted so much throughout a book as I have this one! There was so much depth. I loved seeing both Greer and Evander slowly open up to each other. The vulnerability Greer showed when she told Evander about her sister and the reasoning behind why she’s so closed off to love. Her sole focus being soccer and a championship win.
Over the course of the book the way both Greer and Evander evolved for the better and grew together was so sweet. And that epilogue 😍
________________________________________________
Favorite Quotes:
Talking about these things with her only makes me want her more, and it feels good. It feels right and safe. It feels like home.
“Look, kid, you’re doin’ a lot of thinkin’ for yourself when what you need to be doing is asking God to lead this one. If she’s the right girl, He will make it happen.”
________________________________________________
Read if you like:
🏒Hockey/Soccer Romance
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🏒Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒Blind Date
🏒Great friendships
🏒Closed Door Romance
February 28, 2024
In this newest release in the Denver Dragon series, author M.J. Padgett takes a men’s hockey goalkeeper and a women’s soccer goalie and makes this delightful new romance!
🥅
Anytime Evander and Greer are in the same room, they spark! What starts as verbal matches escalates until one day they find themselves kissing! Even more surprising is they are caught on video by a passerby that quickly goes viral, leaving the public wanting their own enemies to loves sports romance! As Evander and Greer navigate their social media fandom, will they find their feelings are ones that will burn out as quickly as they started or will they last a lifetime?
🥅
I enjoyed this new read- an enemies to loves hockey romance is basically all my favorite things together! Evan and Greer’s chemistry sparkles and their social media challenge was fun to watch! I truly loved the friendships in this story as well as Evan! He had such a caring heart and seeing how he had grown and was so intentional and vulnerable made him dear to me!
🥅
“She never does anything halfway, and when she wants something, she goes for it with everything she’s got. I hope the next something she wants is me.”
🥅
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
🥅
Anytime Evander and Greer are in the same room, they spark! What starts as verbal matches escalates until one day they find themselves kissing! Even more surprising is they are caught on video by a passerby that quickly goes viral, leaving the public wanting their own enemies to loves sports romance! As Evander and Greer navigate their social media fandom, will they find their feelings are ones that will burn out as quickly as they started or will they last a lifetime?
🥅
I enjoyed this new read- an enemies to loves hockey romance is basically all my favorite things together! Evan and Greer’s chemistry sparkles and their social media challenge was fun to watch! I truly loved the friendships in this story as well as Evan! He had such a caring heart and seeing how he had grown and was so intentional and vulnerable made him dear to me!
🥅
“She never does anything halfway, and when she wants something, she goes for it with everything she’s got. I hope the next something she wants is me.”
🥅
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2024
Well, Double Duty Defense was a ride. Picture this: a soccer star, Greer, and a hockey player, Evander, on a blind date that goes so horribly wrong it makes front-page news. I mean, yikes! But also, kinda hilarious.
Let’s just say, these two have some serious sparks—except at first, they’re the "I-want-to-punch-you-in-the-face" kind of sparks. Their rivalry is intense, and while Evander seemed to think it was all in good fun, Greer… yeah, not so much. It got pretty heated, and at some points, I was like, “Are we really supposed to believe these two are gonna fall in love?”
But hey, opposites attract, right? That parking lot scene—chef’s kiss—was an absolute gem, and for a moment, I thought, okay, maybe this will work.
But I couldn’t really connect with Greer, though. She’s got some serious mood swings (girl needs a breather), and I didn’t feel super invested in her romance with Evander. Plus, some of the characters felt a bit immature, which made me wonder if they were really ready for a relationship. Also, Kayla? Getting forgiven at the end? Yeah, no thanks.
But if you’re looking for a clean, sweet romance with plenty of banter and a few jaw-dropping moments, this one’s worth a shot. Just don’t expect to fall head-over-heels for the characters!
Let’s just say, these two have some serious sparks—except at first, they’re the "I-want-to-punch-you-in-the-face" kind of sparks. Their rivalry is intense, and while Evander seemed to think it was all in good fun, Greer… yeah, not so much. It got pretty heated, and at some points, I was like, “Are we really supposed to believe these two are gonna fall in love?”
But hey, opposites attract, right? That parking lot scene—chef’s kiss—was an absolute gem, and for a moment, I thought, okay, maybe this will work.
But I couldn’t really connect with Greer, though. She’s got some serious mood swings (girl needs a breather), and I didn’t feel super invested in her romance with Evander. Plus, some of the characters felt a bit immature, which made me wonder if they were really ready for a relationship. Also, Kayla? Getting forgiven at the end? Yeah, no thanks.
But if you’re looking for a clean, sweet romance with plenty of banter and a few jaw-dropping moments, this one’s worth a shot. Just don’t expect to fall head-over-heels for the characters!
April 2, 2025
3.75/5
I like this series so far, but I wish the previous books would set the reader up for the next one. I feel like I’m going into these books blind because the characters weren’t mentioned in the prior book.
Regardless, this book was so good! The flirting, the charm, the banter! So stinking cute! This was light on the enemies (the hate was one sided from Greer) and heavy on the lovers, yet it worked perfectly for the characters. Greer was a mood swing and a half to Evander, but he was so patient and kind to her. It was understandable though because she was guarding her heart. She was afraid to let him in and let herself love him. I’m SO happy she took the risk and gave in!!! He treated her so well and took great care of her i.e. taking the relationship at her pace, listening and doing what she wants, and reassuring her to no end how much he likes her (through words and actions). So unbelievably sweet!!
Their dates were so precious and the guys standing up for her and her friends was everything! I can’t fathom what happened to Greer though at the end! FOR WHY?! It made me so upset. I’m glad she’s happy with Evander, but the author didn’t have to ruin Greer like that!!!!!!!
I like this series so far, but I wish the previous books would set the reader up for the next one. I feel like I’m going into these books blind because the characters weren’t mentioned in the prior book.
Regardless, this book was so good! The flirting, the charm, the banter! So stinking cute! This was light on the enemies (the hate was one sided from Greer) and heavy on the lovers, yet it worked perfectly for the characters. Greer was a mood swing and a half to Evander, but he was so patient and kind to her. It was understandable though because she was guarding her heart. She was afraid to let him in and let herself love him. I’m SO happy she took the risk and gave in!!! He treated her so well and took great care of her i.e. taking the relationship at her pace, listening and doing what she wants, and reassuring her to no end how much he likes her (through words and actions). So unbelievably sweet!!
Their dates were so precious and the guys standing up for her and her friends was everything! I can’t fathom what happened to Greer though at the end! FOR WHY?! It made me so upset. I’m glad she’s happy with Evander, but the author didn’t have to ruin Greer like that!!!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2024
This is the story of Greer Morgan and Evander Calloway and how they go from perceived enemies to the best of friends and more. Both play goalie for their respective sports, she in soccer for the Denver Darlings and he in hockey with the Denver Dragons. Ever since Greer can remember, she's been annoyed, frustrated, curious and angry with all things about Vander. She doesn't know why, it just is. Vander finds himself teasing Greer incessantly and as much as it annoys Greer, he can't help but love it. There's an obvious connection between the two, and their friends try to take advantage of it to set them up on a blind date. That blind date was a disaster, until the kiss caught by the paps. They became the couple made in social media nirvana and they agreed to a competition to see who was the better goalie, but in each other's sport. With the results of Greer looking like the Pillsbury Dough Boy and Vander dressed in beach wear, this sweet, adorable and kooky story checked all my YA romance boxes.
March 10, 2024
I loved this story! I am a huge fan of enemies to lovers because it means lots of sarcastic banter and boy do Evander and Greer like to push each other’s buttons. They are both goalies for their respective sports which I thought was such a fun connection that leads to a really fun challenge.
Greer is a very intense person because of a promise she made and she struggles to relax. Evander likes to push her buttons even though Greer usually punches back which causes their interactions to get out of control sometimes. But when their friends force them together, they find that maybe their intense feelings are more love than hate.
I loved the faith aspects and relationship advice that Evander gets that helps him be there for Greer. I like how they talk about things and dealing with the publicness of their growing relationship.
This was a great story and I am so excited for more of this series!
Greer is a very intense person because of a promise she made and she struggles to relax. Evander likes to push her buttons even though Greer usually punches back which causes their interactions to get out of control sometimes. But when their friends force them together, they find that maybe their intense feelings are more love than hate.
I loved the faith aspects and relationship advice that Evander gets that helps him be there for Greer. I like how they talk about things and dealing with the publicness of their growing relationship.
This was a great story and I am so excited for more of this series!
February 15, 2025
4 stars rounded up to 4.5! I had heard so many good things about this author’s contemporaries and this did not disappoint! I loved it instantly. Smooth writing and such a sweet romance.
I enjoyed both Greer and Evander’s personalities and introspections. The structure of the story and progression of the romance made a lot of sense to me. There were plenty of side characters as well. There was also a bit of faith content that I hadn’t expected and enjoyed!
A super cute hockey romance with a soccer rival twist that was balanced well.
In this book: animosity to more, soccer goalie FMC, hockey goalie MMC, social media challenge/rivalry
Content Guide: clean for romance and language, infrequent (two events) and non-descriptive, and very light amount of faith content
I enjoyed both Greer and Evander’s personalities and introspections. The structure of the story and progression of the romance made a lot of sense to me. There were plenty of side characters as well. There was also a bit of faith content that I hadn’t expected and enjoyed!
A super cute hockey romance with a soccer rival twist that was balanced well.
In this book: animosity to more, soccer goalie FMC, hockey goalie MMC, social media challenge/rivalry
Content Guide: clean for romance and language, infrequent (two events) and non-descriptive, and very light amount of faith content
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews