He is a professional hockey player. She knows nothing about hockey.
Brandon Karlsberg's life is just the way he wants it. He has the hockey career he's always dreamt of, friends he can count on, and dates on tap.
Mallory Lark just wants a once in a lifetime trip to New York City. Losing her best friend on the way there was not in the plan. Now she is alone in a city she knows nothing about.
When she leaves, he tracks her down. When she comes back, he pushes her away. Should love be this complicated?
Puck at First Sight is the perfect hockey romance that will give you all the steam, instant connection, and a very happy ending.
Andie Bale lives in Ann Arbor (Go Blue!), Michigan, with her husband, daughter and awesome four-legged baby. Her love of reading started at a young age when sneaking her mother's romance books to read was the highlight of her day. Now, she is beyond grateful and excited to be able to bring the characters in her head to life.
Mallory and Bran meet when he overhears her in a coffee shop as she is distressed that she is all alone in NYC as her BFF Janie missed her flight. They were supposed to watch Janie's brother Xander play in a NHL game. Bran offers her tickets to the game but doesn't mention he also plays in the NHL. Bran gets her VIP tickets and it isn't until she is at the game that she realizes he is a player. While it is implied that these two have chemistry, it wasn't really jumping off the pages to me, but I still enjoyed them as a couple. Bran and Janie's brother Xander who is on the visiting team dislike one another and it makes things awkward for Mallory as he doesn't feel she is good enough to be BFF's with his sister. The situation with Janie and her family is a strange one, and hoping we get more from her in her own book.
Mallory and Bran decide to continue their relationship even though she lives in another state but since she works remotely, she can spend time in NY getting to know Bran and still do her job. Her parents treat her like she is still in high school even though she doesn't live with them, and they throw up road blocks and meddle in her relationship with Bran. With all these people meddling in their business they still attempt to get to know one another and forge ahead with their relationship with Bran's missing his teeth and all! (LOL)
Overall, a good read, and can't wait to see Janie get her story, but Xander's relationship sounds like it is is going to be really good!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh this was such a fun story! Mallory is from Minnesota, visiting New York, and she's supposed to be going to a hockey game with her best friend, whose brother plays for the visiting Minnesota team. She knows nothing about hockey either. Her friend is stuck and can't get there, and she has the tickets. Mal is in a diner bewailing her wasted trip when she's overheard by a couple of guys nearby. One of them gives her a VIP pass to the game. Like - what? She's instantly intrigued - who is this guy? As she's trying to leave, she bumps into the waitress, who is carrying a full tray, and makes a huge mess. Bran, who gave her the game ticket, comes over and literally picks her up out of the mess and takes her outside. (First swoon! More to come!) She goes to the game the next night, sitting in the VIP box, and finally finds out who this guy is - a hockey player for the New York Sliders, who beat the Minnesota team. There's an instant connection, which grows quickly. Bran's never been one for a long-term relationship, but something about this girl is different. Maybe it's just that she has no idea who he is, and doesn't really care. But there are so many swoon worthy moments and probably an equal number of miscommunications, between them and others. Bran's best friend and teammate Van was just hilarious! Equal parts voice of reason and pot stirrer, with a whole bunch of baby fever thrown in! This was a great read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series - out soon! :-).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Puck at First Sight is Book 1 of New York Sliders hockey series. It's a steamy, OTT, instalust, instalove, slight age-gap, curvy girl gets her hockey player sports romance. Mallory is a 25 year old curvy graphic designer from Minnesota. Bran is a 33 year old hunky, possessive, hot-headed hockey player in New York. The two meet when Bran overhears her talking about her ruined trip to New York in a café. Her best friend, Janie, has an older brother, Xander, who plays for the MN hockey team. They were supposed to be in town for the NY vs. MN game, but Janie was unable to make it and has no way to get the tickets to Mallory. Bran offers her one of his VIP passes. She ends up accepting after the waitress vouches for him. Through a series of events, they end up having a hot night of sex at the hotel but haven't even exchanged names. She doesn't realize he is a pro player until she sees him at the game. They start a bit of a long-distance relationship with some bumps along the way. The chemistry was 🔥 hot 🔥 hot 🔥 hot🔥 and we do get an amazing HEA after a lot of drama. Bran is a bit of a possessive hot head and ittitated me sometimes, but I also loved how sweet he was with Mallory. Van and Chloe cracked me up. I loved Van and Bran's friendship, too. Van likes to stir up trouble. And Xander was a tool. Although I am excited about his book next. I really hope Janie gets a book, too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first book by this author and honestly, I struggled with it. The storyline is good, the characters are well developed, its just the authors writing style that I struggled with. The jumping back and forth between contractions and separate words was a bit jarring, especially as it would not only happen in the same paragraph but often times in the same sentence as well (ex it is/it's, she is/she's, I will/I'll, etc). If the author could find a better flow with using contractions on a more consistent level her writing would be much easier to read. Or if she kept the words separate on a more consistent level, either way would make it easier. Since this is a personal preference, the review only lost 1 star because like I said, the story itself was good!
Overall, the story was really good and about 3/4 in my mind was finally able to make the contractions itself and it was quicker to finish then the beginning of the book. I like how even though they were in a long distance relationship, they worked hard to make it work and to learn about each other. I like that she didn't automatically start jumping at the chance for him to throw money at her like a lot of women in that situation would. And honestly, I wanted to slap her Dad, like she's a grown adult, let her have her relationships!
Puck at First Sight is the first book in the New York Sliders series and I look forward to reading more. Mallory and Bran have a chance meeting when she's in New York City for the first time when her best friend's plane is delayed and cancelled. She's also alone and is more of a small town girl. He bends over backwards to help her out of a jam and they have a one-night stand thinking that would be the end of it. But their paths keep crossing and their attraction grows. But will it be enough?
There were a lot of characters introduced and hockey is front and center. Bran's best friend and teammate along with his pregnant fiancée are woven throughout and often help save the day when things go awry between Bran and Mal. There are some unexpected surprises and lots of heat. There is romance and feelings to sort out but when Bran and Mal are on the same page - and she's not running scared, their story unfolds with them both wanting more. There is closure and a happily-ever-after on several fronts but definitely more stories to tell.
Ms. Bale is a new to me author and I will be back for more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Andie Bale has done it again!! Puck at First Sight is the first book in her new New York Sliders series, and it is FIRE!!
Mallory was supposed to meet her best friend, Jananie, in New York for a hockey game that features Janaine's brother. However, due to bad weather, Mallory is left alone in the Big Apple and wondering what to do next.
After overhearing Mallory's conversation in a busy coffeshop, Bran hears the anxiety in her voice. Though he has never done it before, even for family, Bran gives Mallory one of his VIP passes to the Slider Game she was supposed to attend with her friend. From there, Bran and Mallory begin a whirlwind romance. But can space, family drama, and their own actions make this a happily ever after??
Andie Bale is a superior writer, and this book is no exception. She has a unique way of bringing her characters to life and showing true emotion in her writing. As always, the storyline was great and really pulls you in with the first sentence. 5 flaming stars for Puck at First Sight!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Mallory is supposed to be on an all-expenses paid weekend in New York City to catch a professional hockey game in which her best friend’s brother is playing for the visiting team. A travel snag results in her friend missing a flight and stranding Mallory without the VIP passes and tickets to the game. NY hockey player Bran overhears a phone conversation Mallory has with her bestie’s mom and graciously decides to give her one of his passes. Overwhelmed with gratitude and her attraction to Bran, she invites him to her hotel room where they have a long night of awkwardly written but apparently awesome sex. Wanting to leave it at that, Mallory doesn’t expect to see Bran again. Inexplicably she’s shocked when she sees him banging on the glass in front of the VIP section. Guess she didn’t put together the readily available VIP pass was due to him being a player on the home team. Strange style and plot choices such as this and the awkward intimate scenes made it difficult to get into or enjoy this book. I received an advance reader copy from the author and booksprout and I’m sharing my honest thoughts.
Mallory was in New York for a trip with a friend, but her friend got stuck on a layover. Bran was in the coffee shop when Mallory was talking about how she couldn't go to the hockey game because if her friend having the tickets. He ends up offering her a pass and a ticket to the game without telling her who he is. She meets Chloe at the game because she is sitting with the family of the players and learns Bran is a hockey player. They meet up after his game and share an amazing night. She ends up seeing him while she is in town, and they promise to keep in touch when she returns home. Will this turn into more than they expected? Can they find a way to be together?
This is an amazing story that once I started it I couldn't put it down. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that an y book lover would enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a very enjoyable book, particularly the humour and there was plenty of steam. Things move rapidly between Mallory and Bran, certainly insta-lust, almost insta-love, however due to them moving so rapidly, there is a bit of angst and drama to work through as they develop their relationship and get to know each other, they were both strong characters.
I loved the friendship and banter between Bran and Van, and Van's fiancee Chloe.
This is the first book I have read by this author, now I am going to go back and read the others, including Van and Chloe who are Bran's friends and feature quite a bit in this one (but easily read without their book as I have done). I also can't wait for Xander's book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fun, sweet, romantic hockey comedy. Bran saw her, loved her spunky clumsiness, and claimed her from the start. A few missteps after their first weekend, but he doesn't give up and gets his HEA. Not overly possessive but definitely protective, so if you touch her, he'll break your nose.
I loved the build of Mallory's character as she came into accepting the relationship. Although, really girl why'd you keep trying to fight it and run?! 😉
Great fun banter between the characters. And spicy right from the start. Hello chapter 3! 🌶️🌶️🌶️ But the spice helps the plot and character progression rather than just being there for pure spice.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would have given this five stars if it had been a bit longer, but this book was great. I was able to read it in 2.5 hours. And it might have made me a hockey fan. But for a spice factor this gets 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. And I was needing some spice in my reading.
Mallory felt like she could have been my best friend since she was so relatable. And Bran was what I would call your stereotypical jock but in a loveable way. I appreciated that he knew he was hot-headed and tried to make it up to Mallory when he didn't need to be.
I'm looking forward to seeing how the rest of this series progresses. Xander's story is next and I hope he can redeem himself from this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I tried really hard to like this story and was a little disappointed in how juvenile it came across.. let me be clear the story could have and should have been good but I couldn't take many parts of it serious. Bran was ok Mallory was a little annoying but Van was so immature it really took away from the story. I found myself skimming through the parts with Van as it felt more like a high-school hockey story then pro. I loved the interaction of Xander and Abby and wished more focus was given to Bran's family. Mallory parents also treated her like a high-schooler and the fact that she allowed it made it even more annoying. I want to read the next story and hope it's much better than this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first book by this author and I’m already looking forward to the next! This book was highly entertaining, especially Bran and Van’s friendship! Those two, particularly Van, seriously cracked me up! I liked Bran, but he did have his moments where he acted like a teenager, or overreacted unnecessarily. I really liked Mallory, but I did feel like she was too quick to run when things got tuff. I. The end, I really did love the two of them together! The added bonus of Van and Chloe just made this book even better! I wasn’t expecting the twist that came in regards to Xander, but it certainly explained a lot. Now I can’t wait to get his full story!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Puck at First Sight Book 1 of New York Sliders. Bran isn’t one for relationships but he is a bit jealous of his best friends fiancé and baby. Meeting Mallory was a fluke but now a fun weekend is turning into more. Unfortunately, she lives in another state and has some sort of relationship with his enemy. His temper at times isn’t helping. They are navigating a long distance relationship, and her parents being pushy and bossy. He’s wondering if it’s worth it, while she’s upset with his reactions. I loved the storyline and the characters. He’s definitely an alpha male but she’s going to change his tune. I would definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bran and Mallory have a chance meet cute at a coffee shop, when Mallory is alone in the big city with no tickets to the hockey game (her sole reason for coming to town). Bran overhears, and steps in to help without even knowing her name.
After a few clumsy encounters, and a shocking realization, Mallory and Bran spend a night together, then another, then another... and a relationship begins.
I enjoyed the storyline and the book as a whole, but some of the transitions were a little messy. Both Bran and Mallory jumped to conclusions at times that felt unnecessary rather than plot driven, but for the most part, it was a fun and steamy story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fantastic start to this new series. Thoroughly enjoyable with genuine dialogue from the characters and their many antics when friends are involved. I like how this was all so unexpected, yet it worked for them, as Mallory and Bran had such great chemistry together. I liked the twist that came out of nowhere, but definitely explained why the negativity from many people. Can’t wait for the next and hope to get more from this couple as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I just love how they meet, I couldn't imagine what she was going thru. His best friend and fiancé are the best pair and I would love to read their story. Her best friends brother oh my what a piece of **** he is just a pain in everyone's butt, or teeth hehe. Her parents thought they were doing the right thing with what info that they had. All of this is new to everyone and they have some road blocks to over come. I would love to know what happens next for them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this book as an arc copy… a romance… H OCKEY ROMANCE… sing me up. I started this with no expectations. But let me tell you I could not put this book down , well written, amazing story, great banter with team mates and main characters. I started with a smile and ended it happy. As if two of my friend found love in each other. Spice is there too❤️👀.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A new and entertaining hockey romance and my first Andi Bale read. A sweet meet-cute that turns into more and blooms into a relationship that has its ups and downs. Some miscommunication, a twist, fun, awesome characters (including the non-mains), romance, steam, drama and a great HEA. Looking forward to reading more from the New York Sliders.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I could not get past some errors in the writing and was unable to finish the book. I made it about 20% through the book. The errors included misspelling the main character's name as Bram and using break instead of brake when referring to slowing down a vehicle. These are things that other people may be able to look past but for some reason it bothered me. I also feel like I couldn't get an understanding of the characters'personalities. It just wasn't for me.
This book had me laughing out loud a lot. I loved everything with the teeth, too funny! Bran and Mallory meet when he over hears she needs tickeys to the hickey game that he happens to be playing. It had the perfect amount of humor, drama, and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bran plays professional hockey and when he rescues Mallory and gives her his hockey game pass, they meet up and sparks fly. Problem is that she lives in a different state and he lives in NYC. How can this work?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was cute. Bran and Mallory are great together. The plot twist got me and I was not expecting it. It is a quick read. I love a hockey romance and this one is great. It does have spice, but not too much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm new to hockey romance, but this seems more interested in character development than hockey. Which isn't a bad thing. Bran and Mallory have meet cute and move from there to sexy times. Their chemistry is hot. The worldbuilding is alright. The secondaries are nosy and supportive. A fast, fun read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Steamy, romantic story full of laugh out loud moments! Love the story of Bran and Mal and can't wait to read about more members of the NY Sliders. These two go through some misunderstandings but are able to work through it all to get to their happily ever after. Bran's relationship with his best friend Van had me cracking up. Great book!
So this is your typical hockey romance. Don't get me wrong, I love hockey romances. The writing was beautiful. The plot was good. It didn't stand out as amazing to me but I did like it a lot. It was good and I enjoyed reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love hockey romance books but this one surpassed all of the ones I have read before! This story has everything and even some of the best romance scenes. Definitely a must read if you love romance and want to devore a phenomenal story! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first in a new series, and this is Brandon and Mallory’s story. This is a well written easy to read story, with friendships, humor, witty banter, emotions, twists, drama, romance, miscommunication, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, fun, and steamy addictive page turner. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the first few pages I knew this wasn’t for me. Didn’t vibe with the writing, the smex scene tossed me off a cliff and the hockey game solidified it.
Not for me. I love hockey romance books, but sometimes readers just don’t vibe with authors.