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L.A. Storm #3
Shield
Can Jackson ensure the safety of his loved ones when the darkest elements of LA's underbelly seek retribution?
Oliver knows the clock is ticking on his dream of winning the Stanley Cup. After fourteen years playing for New York, he’s beyond frustrated to leave friends behind when traded to the LA Storm. As a widower and father of two girls, he’s facing the twilight of his career, and, worst of all, he’s lonely. Making friends is easy enough, but he craves someone to hold him at night. When Jackson, equal parts grumpy chaos and charm, lands in his life, friendship turns to lust, and love isn’t far behind. He finds himself drawn to Jackson, and as their relationship deepens, they become each other’s haven amidst the chaos of their lives. However, danger from Jackson's work threatens their peaceful world, challenging their relationship and forcing love to take a backseat to survival.
After bringing down a notable money launderer, Jackson's small team receives orders to delve deeper into the world of organized crime in Hollywood. His early success quickly spirals into an overwhelming web of criminal intrigue. In this new, uncharted territory, he feels increasingly isolated, both personally and professionally. The more issues he uncovers, the less he seems to close. Meeting Oliver shakes his world even more, especially when he accidentally falls for the widower and father of two little girls. A few nights of fun is one thing, but deeper feelings and kids are something he is not at all prepared for. Yet, despite his reluctance, he becomes deeply attached to the little family who has embraced him with so much love. Now, he just has to shield them from the dangers that have followed him to their doorstep.
This opposites attract romance features a single dad hockey player grappling with personal loss, a grumpy detective entangled in the complexities of organized crime, and a love story that happens despite the odds.
Oliver knows the clock is ticking on his dream of winning the Stanley Cup. After fourteen years playing for New York, he’s beyond frustrated to leave friends behind when traded to the LA Storm. As a widower and father of two girls, he’s facing the twilight of his career, and, worst of all, he’s lonely. Making friends is easy enough, but he craves someone to hold him at night. When Jackson, equal parts grumpy chaos and charm, lands in his life, friendship turns to lust, and love isn’t far behind. He finds himself drawn to Jackson, and as their relationship deepens, they become each other’s haven amidst the chaos of their lives. However, danger from Jackson's work threatens their peaceful world, challenging their relationship and forcing love to take a backseat to survival.
After bringing down a notable money launderer, Jackson's small team receives orders to delve deeper into the world of organized crime in Hollywood. His early success quickly spirals into an overwhelming web of criminal intrigue. In this new, uncharted territory, he feels increasingly isolated, both personally and professionally. The more issues he uncovers, the less he seems to close. Meeting Oliver shakes his world even more, especially when he accidentally falls for the widower and father of two little girls. A few nights of fun is one thing, but deeper feelings and kids are something he is not at all prepared for. Yet, despite his reluctance, he becomes deeply attached to the little family who has embraced him with so much love. Now, he just has to shield them from the dangers that have followed him to their doorstep.
This opposites attract romance features a single dad hockey player grappling with personal loss, a grumpy detective entangled in the complexities of organized crime, and a love story that happens despite the odds.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2024
82 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
309 books2,714 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 7, 2024
RJ and VL have delivered another really lovely romance in their ongoing LA Storm series with two characters who, on the face of it, may seem opposites but who are both alone for quite different reasons and in need of love.
Like the previous two books in this series, my only real niggle with them is that they seem to all end rather abruptly not long after the couple has got together.
Here it's no different, although we do get an Epilogue 12 months later with a bit more insight into how they're all getting on, which is a shame, because I would have actually liked more of them enfolding Jackson into their little family and learning to have another Dad around.
I really liked both characters, they've got their own troubles individually and then they're thrown together with a crime at the health centre where Oliver volunteers and which Jackson's been sent to investigate.
That was my other minor whinge with this particular story too, the whole crime sort of petered out without it being totally clear exactly what was going on. There were hints and mentions of specific people doing specific things, but then it never went back to say if the arrests etc had stuck and that people had actually been locked up!
Other than those though, I really enjoyed everything else about this latest LA Storm instalment and I really loved Oliver's two daughters and how they had managed to find a way forward after their mum's death from breast cancer.
I also liked Oliver's best mate/nanny Jamie and I'm looking forward to his book which is up next with ex-ice skater and now ice hockey player Craig.
#ARC kindly received from the authors, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Like the previous two books in this series, my only real niggle with them is that they seem to all end rather abruptly not long after the couple has got together.
Here it's no different, although we do get an Epilogue 12 months later with a bit more insight into how they're all getting on, which is a shame, because I would have actually liked more of them enfolding Jackson into their little family and learning to have another Dad around.
I really liked both characters, they've got their own troubles individually and then they're thrown together with a crime at the health centre where Oliver volunteers and which Jackson's been sent to investigate.
That was my other minor whinge with this particular story too, the whole crime sort of petered out without it being totally clear exactly what was going on. There were hints and mentions of specific people doing specific things, but then it never went back to say if the arrests etc had stuck and that people had actually been locked up!
Other than those though, I really enjoyed everything else about this latest LA Storm instalment and I really loved Oliver's two daughters and how they had managed to find a way forward after their mum's death from breast cancer.
I also liked Oliver's best mate/nanny Jamie and I'm looking forward to his book which is up next with ex-ice skater and now ice hockey player Craig.
#ARC kindly received from the authors, I am voluntarily leaving a review
June 7, 2024
This was really good. It had a vibe that reminded me of the sanctuary books by RJ. There is a "who did it" vibe, but it doesn't engulf the plot like in some other police and crime books. It feels like equally balanced with the romance and self discovery parts of the book, and I really enjoyed that. And we got to see hockey too, which is honestly the only way in which I consume the sport
August 2, 2024
I think I’m in the minority but this book was kind of a miss for me - I liked Oliver and Jackson as characters - but there was a LOT going on - between Oliver’s volunteering at the clinic, and the ongoing case -
I feel like it didn’t need to be a hockey book? And I love a hockey romance, it just seemed kind of an afterthought here. Also - O&J’s relationship seemed to develop quite a lot off-page, and I’d rather have had more details about that than some other things. It was cute though, rounding up to 3 stars.
I feel like it didn’t need to be a hockey book? And I love a hockey romance, it just seemed kind of an afterthought here. Also - O&J’s relationship seemed to develop quite a lot off-page, and I’d rather have had more details about that than some other things. It was cute though, rounding up to 3 stars.
June 18, 2024
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series, and you will definitely get more of the full picture of the Storm guys if you’ve read them in order. Fans of these talented authors will recognise some old friends from across the country in this installment.
Olivier is newly arrived and trying to fit into his new team, and support his two young daughters as they assimilate to a new city. He is also recently widowed and coping without Jamie, the girls' nanny. Little does he expect to come across a violent crime at the clinic where he volunteers, nor meet a grumpy officer who awakens his feelings!
As we get to know Olivier and Jackson better, and enjoy the heat, and the complications, it is impossible to think they wont make it. There are quite a few obstacles to a safe future, but patience and some clever detective work open the way to a second chance for Oliver, his girls and his delectable detective.
Another winner from this talented duo.
This is the third book in the series, and you will definitely get more of the full picture of the Storm guys if you’ve read them in order. Fans of these talented authors will recognise some old friends from across the country in this installment.
Olivier is newly arrived and trying to fit into his new team, and support his two young daughters as they assimilate to a new city. He is also recently widowed and coping without Jamie, the girls' nanny. Little does he expect to come across a violent crime at the clinic where he volunteers, nor meet a grumpy officer who awakens his feelings!
As we get to know Olivier and Jackson better, and enjoy the heat, and the complications, it is impossible to think they wont make it. There are quite a few obstacles to a safe future, but patience and some clever detective work open the way to a second chance for Oliver, his girls and his delectable detective.
Another winner from this talented duo.
September 15, 2024
I enjoyed that one a lot. It had an interesting crime case and I really liked the development both MCs went through in the story. The romance story was good with tension and a lovely ending. But I wish we've seen more of the romance development. Some of it happens offpage and rather fast. Around 3.5.
July 15, 2024
I enjoyed the premise and the buildup, but once they got together it felt like all the development was happening off-page because they were so suddenly in love.
June 30, 2024
I just knew we'd see Jackson again after he was introduced in Second(ironically the 2nd entry in the LA Storm branch of the Scott/Locey Hockey Universe😉) and I was not disappointed. You couldn't help but feel he was straddling the line between good cop/bad cop(or perhaps good cop/overworked-potentially-leading-to-bad-decisions cop) and yet you also knew his heart was always on the good side of that thin line that is too often overlooked these days.
Again, I was not disappointed.
What is there not to love about Oliver? You just want to wrap him in the tightest Mama Bear Hug to protect him from the hurt he's dealt with but also to reassure him that this new start is truly that "a new start". Athletes who spend most of their career with one team and find themselves being traded as their career reaches the later stages can't help but have conflicting and crippling moments of doubt. Those crippling doubts can manifest in multiple internal questions: "how could they toss me away after all the years I've given them", "did they see something in my performance that I didn't", and "can I actually make a positive contribution to the new team" just to name a few. Oliver has to deal with that as well as being a single parent after the death of his wife and doing it in a strange city. Don't get me wrong, yes these raw emotions are there and important but Oliver doesn't let it bog him down, he's prepared to do what he must for his girls, for his team, and for himself.
Then a big monkey wrench is thrown in and he finds himself dealing with an attack to a friend and that's where Jackson enters the picture possibly complicating things even more.
Jackson, what can I say? As stated above he's overworked but good at his job and as for after hours Jackson time, well let's just say he has his fun when and where he can. When thrown together at a crime scene sparks may not beam but they definitely do more than flicker. Both men are ready and/or willing for a new start but just how bumpy or smooth that road is . . . well that's where the fun lies. There is no secret that both RJ Scott & VL Locey are all about the HEA so the end result is really never in doubt(and that's no spoiler). These authors are all about the journey and boy what a journey they bring to life in Shield.
I love when a book has more than one sub-genre and Shield is definitely first and foremost: romance, yummy, yummy, yummy romance. But in Shield we also get a little mystery and I can never say no to a good who-done-it?. Add in a little friendship, family, hockey(can't forget the hockey😉), and what you have is a lovely entertaining piece of reading magic.
How could I forget little Scarlett & Daisy? Oliver's little girls are a pure delight, they may not have a lot of page time but every scene they are in they completely own it. I loved how there is no accepting or not accepting when it comes to Daddy's first date with Jackson, it's just how it is and I firmly believe one day all of society will be in frame of mind but unfortunately we aren't there yet but having Oliver's daughters be there gives a sense of hope for the future. Maybe I read more into that scene than the authors put in to it but that's what I took from it.
What about Jamie? Oliver's old nanny-turned-BFF comes for a visit but stays when his occupational situation changes and from the looks of it, we'll get to see loads more of Jamie in the next Scott/Locey Hockey Universe LA Storm installment, Spiral and I for one can't wait.
Again, I was not disappointed.
What is there not to love about Oliver? You just want to wrap him in the tightest Mama Bear Hug to protect him from the hurt he's dealt with but also to reassure him that this new start is truly that "a new start". Athletes who spend most of their career with one team and find themselves being traded as their career reaches the later stages can't help but have conflicting and crippling moments of doubt. Those crippling doubts can manifest in multiple internal questions: "how could they toss me away after all the years I've given them", "did they see something in my performance that I didn't", and "can I actually make a positive contribution to the new team" just to name a few. Oliver has to deal with that as well as being a single parent after the death of his wife and doing it in a strange city. Don't get me wrong, yes these raw emotions are there and important but Oliver doesn't let it bog him down, he's prepared to do what he must for his girls, for his team, and for himself.
Then a big monkey wrench is thrown in and he finds himself dealing with an attack to a friend and that's where Jackson enters the picture possibly complicating things even more.
Jackson, what can I say? As stated above he's overworked but good at his job and as for after hours Jackson time, well let's just say he has his fun when and where he can. When thrown together at a crime scene sparks may not beam but they definitely do more than flicker. Both men are ready and/or willing for a new start but just how bumpy or smooth that road is . . . well that's where the fun lies. There is no secret that both RJ Scott & VL Locey are all about the HEA so the end result is really never in doubt(and that's no spoiler). These authors are all about the journey and boy what a journey they bring to life in Shield.
I love when a book has more than one sub-genre and Shield is definitely first and foremost: romance, yummy, yummy, yummy romance. But in Shield we also get a little mystery and I can never say no to a good who-done-it?. Add in a little friendship, family, hockey(can't forget the hockey😉), and what you have is a lovely entertaining piece of reading magic.
How could I forget little Scarlett & Daisy? Oliver's little girls are a pure delight, they may not have a lot of page time but every scene they are in they completely own it. I loved how there is no accepting or not accepting when it comes to Daddy's first date with Jackson, it's just how it is and I firmly believe one day all of society will be in frame of mind but unfortunately we aren't there yet but having Oliver's daughters be there gives a sense of hope for the future. Maybe I read more into that scene than the authors put in to it but that's what I took from it.
What about Jamie? Oliver's old nanny-turned-BFF comes for a visit but stays when his occupational situation changes and from the looks of it, we'll get to see loads more of Jamie in the next Scott/Locey Hockey Universe LA Storm installment, Spiral and I for one can't wait.
June 20, 2024
Check out our full post for SHIELD on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in the series, and you will definitely get more of the full picture of the Storm guys if you’ve read them in order. Fans of these talented authors will recognise some old friends from across the country in this installment.
Olivier is newly arrived and trying to fit into his new team, and support his two young daughters as they assimilate to a new city. He is also recently widowed and coping without Jamie, the girls' nanny. Little does he expect to come across a violent crime at the clinic where he volunteers, nor meet a grumpy officer who awakens his feelings!
As we get to know Olivier and Jackson better, and enjoy the heat and the complications, it is impossible to think they won’t make it. There are quite a few obstacles to a safe future, but patience and some clever detective work open the way to a second chance for Oliver, his girls, and his delectable detective.
Another winner from this talented duo.
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
SHIELD is the third installment in the L.A. Storm series. It can be read as a standalone but does read better if you read in the order that the authors intended.
Oliver has had a successful career in New York and getting transferred to L.A. Storm was never on his radar, especially after 14 years, and at the end of his career is a hard pill to swallow. Moving his two daughters away from the only place they've ever known and away from their friends was hard, but Oliver is trying to make a home there for them. He is thrown into a dangerous situation without realizing and there is where he meets Jackson – the detective in charge of the case he's a witness for. Oliver takes notice of how handsome (and tired) Jackson is, but is he ready to move on from his wife who has passed? Is he ready to share his life with someone again?
Jackson is overworked and exhausted but it's the life he loves. But the repeat of no sleep and too much alcohol isn't what he thought he'd be doing with his free time. Falling for a witness in an active investigation isn't either but it's exactly what he finds himself doing.
This one doesn't focus as much on hockey and the team as it does the suspense of the side characters and the case Jackson is working. I mean, it’s still there but it isn't the focal point of the story. I can say I really enjoyed the little touch of suspense. The build up to the relationship seems to take a bit but the end of the story is abrupt. I wasn't really expecting that; even though there was an epilogue, I still feel like a bit was missed somewhere for me but I did enjoy the story completely!
I can't wait to get Jamie and Craig's story next!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 16, 2024
Shield is book three in the LA Storm series by RJ Scott and VL Locey, hockey duo extraordinaire. You're missing out on some great sports romances if you haven’t ventured into these authors' hockey series. It all started with the Harrisburg Railers series and exploded from there. But, you can definitely enjoy this series if you start right here.
Oliver, our D-man, is getting older for a player and has just been transferred from the team he has always called home. He’s left his home and his best friend and nanny, Jamie, in New York, and he’ll be facing his old team in their barn soon. He’s still learning to live with the grief of losing his wife and loving being a dad to the two gifts she left behind, his little girls. He’s also getting his bearings with a new team while facing the daily routine of a type one diabetic. He’s secretly a saint to those in need, which leads to the most terrifying experience, but also… Detective Jackson Winwood.
Jackson is a mess. He’s tired, cranky, and a bit snarky, all while drinking, smoking, and having random sex when he’s not bogged down with Hollywood’s criminal underwood. That is until his attention is snagged by a witness he can’t get out of his head. A lot of Jackson’s opinions about relationships and romance are thrown out when these two finally get together. Jackson and his partner have to walk a fine line when his latest witness in an organized crime case is swiftly becoming his whole world.
This is a sweet romance with a decent plot thrown in. I enjoyed this couple so much that I wish this book could have been longer so we could have had more… story. With these shorter books, the storyline can be great and complete, but you just know if there had been more pages, you would have gotten so much more of everything. This was one of those books for me. Everything moved quickly, as usual with these stories, which is probably why I wanted more. I love the characters these authors developed, and I enjoyed the on-ice hockey time, as well as the criminal aspects of the tale.
If you enjoy sports romance, cops and romance, or just plain romance, you should enjoy this book. I had a lot of fun this afternoon reading it. Jackson’s inner monologue had me smiling to myself half the time, while Ollie’s sweetness had me swooning. It wraps up a little more quickly than I would have preferred, but that’s just how it is. Jamie’s book is next, and I can’t wait to see what the Brit and the figure-skating hockey player bring to the table!
Happy Reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
Oliver, our D-man, is getting older for a player and has just been transferred from the team he has always called home. He’s left his home and his best friend and nanny, Jamie, in New York, and he’ll be facing his old team in their barn soon. He’s still learning to live with the grief of losing his wife and loving being a dad to the two gifts she left behind, his little girls. He’s also getting his bearings with a new team while facing the daily routine of a type one diabetic. He’s secretly a saint to those in need, which leads to the most terrifying experience, but also… Detective Jackson Winwood.
Jackson is a mess. He’s tired, cranky, and a bit snarky, all while drinking, smoking, and having random sex when he’s not bogged down with Hollywood’s criminal underwood. That is until his attention is snagged by a witness he can’t get out of his head. A lot of Jackson’s opinions about relationships and romance are thrown out when these two finally get together. Jackson and his partner have to walk a fine line when his latest witness in an organized crime case is swiftly becoming his whole world.
This is a sweet romance with a decent plot thrown in. I enjoyed this couple so much that I wish this book could have been longer so we could have had more… story. With these shorter books, the storyline can be great and complete, but you just know if there had been more pages, you would have gotten so much more of everything. This was one of those books for me. Everything moved quickly, as usual with these stories, which is probably why I wanted more. I love the characters these authors developed, and I enjoyed the on-ice hockey time, as well as the criminal aspects of the tale.
If you enjoy sports romance, cops and romance, or just plain romance, you should enjoy this book. I had a lot of fun this afternoon reading it. Jackson’s inner monologue had me smiling to myself half the time, while Ollie’s sweetness had me swooning. It wraps up a little more quickly than I would have preferred, but that’s just how it is. Jamie’s book is next, and I can’t wait to see what the Brit and the figure-skating hockey player bring to the table!
Happy Reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
May 6, 2025
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Oliver Cowan is a widower with two daughters and he’s a defenseman near the end of his career who has been traded from New York to the LA Storm. He also volunteers at A medical clinic in a poorer district. On arrival for a shift at the clinic, the receptionist advises Oliver that the head of the group has been holed up in his office for most of the day. He decides to go into the office to cheer up the boss, only to walk into a situation where a gunman is standing over the latter after having hit him with his weapon trying to get codes for something or other. The gunman takes off out of the clinic. During the resultant police investigation, Oliver meets Jackson Winwood (we met him in the previous book, Bryce’s ex brother-in-law), a police detective from the organized crime unit. They find themselves attracted to each other from the outset. Oliver spends most of his off-ice time with his daughters and monitoring his blood sugar levels, given that he is a type 1 diabetic. On the other hand, Jackson spends his evening drinking quite heavily and the occasional hook-up. They navigate the hockey season (the easiest) and the investigation into the crime at the clinic (much more complex) and eventually arrive at their HEA.
To start, I found that the blurb bears little relationship to the actual plot. All this stuff about Jackson’s unit going deep did not occur. That said, the plot is actually quite complex when it comes to the investigation into the crime, the subsequent murder, and the eventual denouement of the case. Like in previous books in the series, the main characters are not two-dimensional with one being a widower and diabetic, and the other a tough cop with bad habits such as smoking and drinking, who works too many hours, and is always exhausted. He’s all of those things because he’s a conscientious cop. His story is less straightforward than Oliver’s. This book has more secondary characters than I noted in previous books. But they are all interesting and add a lot to plot development. And two will appear in the next installment. They are nice people (except for the bad guys) who are important how things go.
I’m pleased to recommend this book to everyone.
Oliver Cowan is a widower with two daughters and he’s a defenseman near the end of his career who has been traded from New York to the LA Storm. He also volunteers at A medical clinic in a poorer district. On arrival for a shift at the clinic, the receptionist advises Oliver that the head of the group has been holed up in his office for most of the day. He decides to go into the office to cheer up the boss, only to walk into a situation where a gunman is standing over the latter after having hit him with his weapon trying to get codes for something or other. The gunman takes off out of the clinic. During the resultant police investigation, Oliver meets Jackson Winwood (we met him in the previous book, Bryce’s ex brother-in-law), a police detective from the organized crime unit. They find themselves attracted to each other from the outset. Oliver spends most of his off-ice time with his daughters and monitoring his blood sugar levels, given that he is a type 1 diabetic. On the other hand, Jackson spends his evening drinking quite heavily and the occasional hook-up. They navigate the hockey season (the easiest) and the investigation into the crime at the clinic (much more complex) and eventually arrive at their HEA.
To start, I found that the blurb bears little relationship to the actual plot. All this stuff about Jackson’s unit going deep did not occur. That said, the plot is actually quite complex when it comes to the investigation into the crime, the subsequent murder, and the eventual denouement of the case. Like in previous books in the series, the main characters are not two-dimensional with one being a widower and diabetic, and the other a tough cop with bad habits such as smoking and drinking, who works too many hours, and is always exhausted. He’s all of those things because he’s a conscientious cop. His story is less straightforward than Oliver’s. This book has more secondary characters than I noted in previous books. But they are all interesting and add a lot to plot development. And two will appear in the next installment. They are nice people (except for the bad guys) who are important how things go.
I’m pleased to recommend this book to everyone.
June 19, 2024
SHIELD is the third installment in the L.A. Storm series. It can be read as a standalone but does read better if you read in the order that the authors intended.
Oliver has had a successful career in New York and getting transferred to LA Storm was never on his radar, especially after 14 years and at the end of his career is a hard pill to swallow. Moving his two daughters away from the only place they've ever known and away from their friends was hard but Oliver is trying to make a home there for them. He is thrown into a dangerous situation without realizing and there is where he meets Jackson. The detective in charge of the case he's a witness for.
Oliver takes notice of how handsome (and tired) Jackson is but is he ready to move on from his wife who has passed? Is he ready to share his life with someone again?
Jackson is overworked and exhausted but it's the life he loves. But the repeat of no sleep and too much alcohol isn't what he thought he'd be doing with his free time. Falling for a witness in an active investigation isn't either but it's exactly what he finds himself doing.
This one doesn't focus as much on hockey and the team as it does the suspense of the side characters and the case Jackson is working. I mean is still there but it isn't the focal point of the story. I can say I really enjoyed the little touch of suspense. The build up to the relationship seems to take a bit but the end of the story is abrupt. I wasn't really expecting that even though their was an epilogue I still feel like a bit was missed somewhere for me but I did enjoy the story completely!
I can't wait to get Jamie and Craig's story next!
I was given a free copy of this book.
Oliver has had a successful career in New York and getting transferred to LA Storm was never on his radar, especially after 14 years and at the end of his career is a hard pill to swallow. Moving his two daughters away from the only place they've ever known and away from their friends was hard but Oliver is trying to make a home there for them. He is thrown into a dangerous situation without realizing and there is where he meets Jackson. The detective in charge of the case he's a witness for.
Oliver takes notice of how handsome (and tired) Jackson is but is he ready to move on from his wife who has passed? Is he ready to share his life with someone again?
Jackson is overworked and exhausted but it's the life he loves. But the repeat of no sleep and too much alcohol isn't what he thought he'd be doing with his free time. Falling for a witness in an active investigation isn't either but it's exactly what he finds himself doing.
This one doesn't focus as much on hockey and the team as it does the suspense of the side characters and the case Jackson is working. I mean is still there but it isn't the focal point of the story. I can say I really enjoyed the little touch of suspense. The build up to the relationship seems to take a bit but the end of the story is abrupt. I wasn't really expecting that even though their was an epilogue I still feel like a bit was missed somewhere for me but I did enjoy the story completely!
I can't wait to get Jamie and Craig's story next!
I was given a free copy of this book.
June 19, 2024
3.75/5 This was entertaining and kept me reading to figure out what was going on with the clinic and between Oliver and Jackson. I confess that for quite a while, I didn’t really see the appeal of Jackson to Oliver apart from him being hot. He’s an overworked, sleep-deprived cop with an alcohol problem, and they spend relatively little time together. (I believe that there’s a lot more to Jackson, but I don’t feel like Oliver could have seen that to begin with.) They didn’t spend quite as much time together as I wanted (and some of it was for Jackson’s job or while he wasn’t sure if Oliver was available/interested). Since one of them is getting over their grief at losing their wife, and one is anti-commitment, the progression to feelings was a bit fast for me.
That being said, I did like them together, just wanted a bit more of a build to get there, but we needed to spend a fair bit of the time on the clinic mystery (which totally kept me engaged). I really liked how Jackson was with Oliver, and with Scarlett and Daisy. The family moments were very sweet. I liked Jackson and Oliver taking care of one another. I liked that Jackson did the right thing given that he met Oliver on a case (although I laughed a bit, because he seemed to be constantly on the case anyway so we could see it all through). And the scene with the frying pan made me laugh a lot.
I appreciated the epilogue to give us a bit more distance and reassure us that Jackson had worked through some of his more problematic behaviours. The Scrabble scene was very cute.
I look forward to Jamie’s story. He definitely deserves his HEA!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
That being said, I did like them together, just wanted a bit more of a build to get there, but we needed to spend a fair bit of the time on the clinic mystery (which totally kept me engaged). I really liked how Jackson was with Oliver, and with Scarlett and Daisy. The family moments were very sweet. I liked Jackson and Oliver taking care of one another. I liked that Jackson did the right thing given that he met Oliver on a case (although I laughed a bit, because he seemed to be constantly on the case anyway so we could see it all through). And the scene with the frying pan made me laugh a lot.
I appreciated the epilogue to give us a bit more distance and reassure us that Jackson had worked through some of his more problematic behaviours. The Scrabble scene was very cute.
I look forward to Jamie’s story. He definitely deserves his HEA!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
June 18, 2024
I enjoyed reading Jackson and Oliver's book as it brings together some of my favourite tropes - single dad, hockey, mystery.
Oliver is a new defenseman for LA Storm, moving here two years after his wife passed away with his two girls. One of the things he does for himself, volunteering at a clinic, is thrown into chaos when the manager is attacked and Oliver walks in mid scene. Jackson, detective with Organised Crimes, is the one to take his statement and there is an instant chemistry between the two. However, Jackson is just a one night guy, and Oliver hasn't been with anyone since his wife
The relationship in this one slightly missed the mark. I didn't feel the emotional connection between the MC's, but they are definitely hot together in their scenes, or adorable when it involves Oliver's two girls.
Jackson's job as a detective, and life in general, sound dismal. Overworked, underpaid, and trying to get some awful people off of the streets. He's got a great partner in Mac but not much else. It's interesting to see how the case unfolds, though it has two scenes with in-use/remembered gun use.
Jackson's thoughts can occasionally get a little dark when home alone, before developing anything with Oliver.
Looking forward to the next book as they are very different MC's.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Oliver is a new defenseman for LA Storm, moving here two years after his wife passed away with his two girls. One of the things he does for himself, volunteering at a clinic, is thrown into chaos when the manager is attacked and Oliver walks in mid scene. Jackson, detective with Organised Crimes, is the one to take his statement and there is an instant chemistry between the two. However, Jackson is just a one night guy, and Oliver hasn't been with anyone since his wife
The relationship in this one slightly missed the mark. I didn't feel the emotional connection between the MC's, but they are definitely hot together in their scenes, or adorable when it involves Oliver's two girls.
Jackson's job as a detective, and life in general, sound dismal. Overworked, underpaid, and trying to get some awful people off of the streets. He's got a great partner in Mac but not much else. It's interesting to see how the case unfolds, though it has two scenes with in-use/remembered gun use.
Jackson's thoughts can occasionally get a little dark when home alone, before developing anything with Oliver.
Looking forward to the next book as they are very different MC's.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 19, 2024
Jackson is a tired, rumpled, overworked baby detective with the LAPD. Oliver is a widower, dad to two girls and fairly put together, given his recent trade to the Storm from New York. Opposites attract and this insta-love story definitely holds that theory.
Managing both diabetes and the guilt of dating after grief, Oliver is a wonderfully complex character. His friendship with British nanny Jamie adds a fun component too, and I’m excited for book 4 in the series as it is Jamie’s story.
Jackson is nothing but the job at the start of the story. Smoking too much, subsisting on junk food, drinking too much and carrying his dead plant around, he is a sad sack. The growth in his character is wonderful to see, although some changes are quite sudden.
The uncertainty of the case that caused Jackson and Oliver to meet is definitely a thick thread running through the book.
Scarlett and Daisy are realistic characters that add chatter to their dad’s life. Mack is a strong police partner. Bryce and his son Leo reappear in this one too, as Bryce’s ex- (Leo’s mom) is Jackson’s sister.
Once again, Scott and Locey team up seamlessly to offer another fabulous instalment in their ever-growing hockey collection.
Any book with an alley cat named Dilbert is golden in my eyes. 5 stars.
Managing both diabetes and the guilt of dating after grief, Oliver is a wonderfully complex character. His friendship with British nanny Jamie adds a fun component too, and I’m excited for book 4 in the series as it is Jamie’s story.
Jackson is nothing but the job at the start of the story. Smoking too much, subsisting on junk food, drinking too much and carrying his dead plant around, he is a sad sack. The growth in his character is wonderful to see, although some changes are quite sudden.
The uncertainty of the case that caused Jackson and Oliver to meet is definitely a thick thread running through the book.
Scarlett and Daisy are realistic characters that add chatter to their dad’s life. Mack is a strong police partner. Bryce and his son Leo reappear in this one too, as Bryce’s ex- (Leo’s mom) is Jackson’s sister.
Once again, Scott and Locey team up seamlessly to offer another fabulous instalment in their ever-growing hockey collection.
Any book with an alley cat named Dilbert is golden in my eyes. 5 stars.
June 5, 2024
Oliver found himself in a very scary situation. Terrified for his friend his daughters called Uncle Joe.
Jackson was waiting on an informant with his partner when they heard about a shooting at a clinic just around the corner from where they were.
It was fate is what it was, bringing these two men together at a time when Jackson was in need of someone who gave a damn about him other than his partner and Oliver was still grieving for his wife after 2 years but knowing she wanted him to find love again.
Was it Oliver's late wife who has a hand in getting them together? This was my thought as I read this story. Either way these two men were meant to be. Meant to help each other and be there for each other. The support, companionship, hot sexy times and eventually a love neither could nor would deny. The fact that Oliver's daughters were fully behind their relationship was beautiful to read.
Of course there is a mystery to solve, amazing friends for both men and bad people that will surprise you.
This was a wonderful story, and I am hoping Lazlo, you'll meet him, will get his own HEA. A girl can hope, right?
Very much looking forward to Spiral (LA Storm book 4) Jamie's story!
5/5 Hockey sticks and hot cops for the win.
Jackson was waiting on an informant with his partner when they heard about a shooting at a clinic just around the corner from where they were.
It was fate is what it was, bringing these two men together at a time when Jackson was in need of someone who gave a damn about him other than his partner and Oliver was still grieving for his wife after 2 years but knowing she wanted him to find love again.
Was it Oliver's late wife who has a hand in getting them together? This was my thought as I read this story. Either way these two men were meant to be. Meant to help each other and be there for each other. The support, companionship, hot sexy times and eventually a love neither could nor would deny. The fact that Oliver's daughters were fully behind their relationship was beautiful to read.
Of course there is a mystery to solve, amazing friends for both men and bad people that will surprise you.
This was a wonderful story, and I am hoping Lazlo, you'll meet him, will get his own HEA. A girl can hope, right?
Very much looking forward to Spiral (LA Storm book 4) Jamie's story!
5/5 Hockey sticks and hot cops for the win.
June 16, 2024
After reading Bryce and Michael’s story in Second, I was intrigued by the teaser of what Jackson and Oliver’s story would bring. Jackson is the grumpy detective who is Bryce’s brother in law and who’s been dealing with an overload of cases between cups of stale coffee and takeout breakfast. He meets the recent addition to the Storm hockey team while investigating a recent incident a local clinic. Its grumpy detective meets sweet single dad and I couldn’t put this read down.
The story is a fast read and it was pretty low angst. It takes these two some time before realizing and acting on the attraction to one another but it moved fairly quick once they finally admit there is a spark of interest. The underlying suspense storyline involving the clinic that Oliver volunteers his time with is more backdrop for these two MCs and it’s not one of the focuses of this book. It’s definitely more of a romance read with a dash of crime and suspense. I was happy these two got their HEA and there was some resolution to the case at hand.
Looking forward for Jamie’s story in the next read. I had a feeling once he was introduced into the story that his book would be next and I feel like his storyline would make for an interesting read.
The story is a fast read and it was pretty low angst. It takes these two some time before realizing and acting on the attraction to one another but it moved fairly quick once they finally admit there is a spark of interest. The underlying suspense storyline involving the clinic that Oliver volunteers his time with is more backdrop for these two MCs and it’s not one of the focuses of this book. It’s definitely more of a romance read with a dash of crime and suspense. I was happy these two got their HEA and there was some resolution to the case at hand.
Looking forward for Jamie’s story in the next read. I had a feeling once he was introduced into the story that his book would be next and I feel like his storyline would make for an interesting read.
June 19, 2024
I loved it!
I am not a fan or follower of any sport but I enjoy reading romance books that feature all kinds of them. What I really love about the hockey romances by this writing duo is that the focus isn't all about the sport – especially this book – it's more about the people.
Shield is a lovely slow-burn romance about family and making connections. Oliver and his two girls have to adjust to life in a completely new setting. I would imagine that moving from NY to LA would be quite a shock and not just the weather. I loved how his new hockey family rallied around him and offered help when he needed it.
Jackson's job as a detective is stressful and a case he is working on brings him into contact with Oliver. These two are so good together! I also enjoyed the comradery between Jackson and his detective partner, Mack.
As is always true for me when reading an RJ Scott story, including the ones she co-authors like this one, all of my emotions get involved while reading. Parts of this touched me deeply and parts made me chuckle.
Spiral, the next book in the LA Storm series is about Oliver's best friend, Jamie who was a great secondary character in Shield; I can't wait to read it!
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I am not a fan or follower of any sport but I enjoy reading romance books that feature all kinds of them. What I really love about the hockey romances by this writing duo is that the focus isn't all about the sport – especially this book – it's more about the people.
Shield is a lovely slow-burn romance about family and making connections. Oliver and his two girls have to adjust to life in a completely new setting. I would imagine that moving from NY to LA would be quite a shock and not just the weather. I loved how his new hockey family rallied around him and offered help when he needed it.
Jackson's job as a detective is stressful and a case he is working on brings him into contact with Oliver. These two are so good together! I also enjoyed the comradery between Jackson and his detective partner, Mack.
As is always true for me when reading an RJ Scott story, including the ones she co-authors like this one, all of my emotions get involved while reading. Parts of this touched me deeply and parts made me chuckle.
Spiral, the next book in the LA Storm series is about Oliver's best friend, Jamie who was a great secondary character in Shield; I can't wait to read it!
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
June 9, 2024
Jackson is a detective who has fallen into a rut of work, drinking and carousing. When he's called to a crime scene where a clinic doctor is attacked he meets Oliver. There's mutual attraction on both sides and soon they aren't fighting their feelings. It doesn't take long for Jackson to realize Oliver is what he's been needing in his life and he's cleaning up his life to have him.
Oliver is newly traded to the LA Storm. He lost his wife two years ago and he's finally at a place where he's thinking about dating again. He meets Jackson and decides he's ready to take the plunge. His best friend Jamie and his daughters all like Jackson too and he seamlessly fits into their lives.
This is a really nice romance with some hockey and detective work on the side. I would've liked it to be a little longer with more hockey and detective work put into the story. I liked that it was a no drama story. The two MCs have good chemistry. It was nice to see Jackson and his ex-BIL getting along better. All in all a quick, short, sweet romance.
Oliver is newly traded to the LA Storm. He lost his wife two years ago and he's finally at a place where he's thinking about dating again. He meets Jackson and decides he's ready to take the plunge. His best friend Jamie and his daughters all like Jackson too and he seamlessly fits into their lives.
This is a really nice romance with some hockey and detective work on the side. I would've liked it to be a little longer with more hockey and detective work put into the story. I liked that it was a no drama story. The two MCs have good chemistry. It was nice to see Jackson and his ex-BIL getting along better. All in all a quick, short, sweet romance.
January 1, 2025
This was mostly cop stuff and not much else. Some typos/inconsistencies:
- “I wished he was here” in two spots within two sentences. I’ in one spot at 20%. Assuming supposed to be I’d or just I.
- There’s some confusion at 57% about whose chapter it is. It’s Oliver’s but then it says “he” instead of “I” when he talked about himself. And then on the next page it capitalized the entire first sentence like it was a new chapter when it wasn’t.
There wasn’t a ton of steam. Only like 2-3 scenes. It was an easy enough read, but we didn’t get to know the characters that well. I thought we’d see more of Oliver’s diabetes and him going to the clinic he volunteers at. I thought we’d see more of his kids. I thought we’d see Jackson’s sister. Maybe 3.5 out of 5 stars but round down?
Oliver: hockey player, 35, diabetic, 2 daughters, wife died of breast cancer, Ducati bike, moved from NY, bisexual
Jackson (Jack): 6’5”, cop (organized crime unit), 28, gay
- “I wished he was here” in two spots within two sentences. I’ in one spot at 20%. Assuming supposed to be I’d or just I.
- There’s some confusion at 57% about whose chapter it is. It’s Oliver’s but then it says “he” instead of “I” when he talked about himself. And then on the next page it capitalized the entire first sentence like it was a new chapter when it wasn’t.
There wasn’t a ton of steam. Only like 2-3 scenes. It was an easy enough read, but we didn’t get to know the characters that well. I thought we’d see more of Oliver’s diabetes and him going to the clinic he volunteers at. I thought we’d see more of his kids. I thought we’d see Jackson’s sister. Maybe 3.5 out of 5 stars but round down?
Oliver: hockey player, 35, diabetic, 2 daughters, wife died of breast cancer, Ducati bike, moved from NY, bisexual
Jackson (Jack): 6’5”, cop (organized crime unit), 28, gay
June 18, 2024
My favorite in the series so far.
Jackson is a detective who meets Oliver when the clinic Oliver is at is robbed at gunpoint. Or at least attempted but Joe is injured and Oliver is a witness.
Oliver has been traded to the Storm from New York, and is just trying to move on from the death of hi wife while raising his little girls. Never expecting to be caught in the middle of violence, let alone feel something he hasn't felt in years, let alone with a man.
While Jackson is trying to solve the city's crimes, his heart is falling deeper and deeper. He never wanted a relationship, let alone kids, yet Jackson and the girls are everything to him.
Can Oliver fit in with his new team and move on? Will Jackson solve the big crime and let his feelings grow?
Jackson is a detective who meets Oliver when the clinic Oliver is at is robbed at gunpoint. Or at least attempted but Joe is injured and Oliver is a witness.
Oliver has been traded to the Storm from New York, and is just trying to move on from the death of hi wife while raising his little girls. Never expecting to be caught in the middle of violence, let alone feel something he hasn't felt in years, let alone with a man.
While Jackson is trying to solve the city's crimes, his heart is falling deeper and deeper. He never wanted a relationship, let alone kids, yet Jackson and the girls are everything to him.
Can Oliver fit in with his new team and move on? Will Jackson solve the big crime and let his feelings grow?
June 19, 2024
This is the third book in the LA Storm series, and it features 2 terrific characters. Oliver is a relatively new player for the LA Storm hockey team, while Jackson is a local police detective, and while their meeting is due to a bad situation there is an instant attraction between the two men. It was great to get glimpses of the other players and partners, especially Charlie, as their relationship developed, and Oliver’s daughters added adorableness to the mix.
These two authors have given us another sweet and lovely romance story, with some suspense and intrigue as well as heat, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
These two authors have given us another sweet and lovely romance story, with some suspense and intrigue as well as heat, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 18, 2024
Shield is book three in the LA Storm series by RJ Scott and VL Locey and it is a great addition to the series.
This is a grumpy detective meets sweet single dad romance that I couldn’t put down. Jackson is a detective who meets Oliver when the clinic Oliver is at is robbed at gunpoint. Oliver is hockey player, widowed with two young children
There's mutual attraction on both sides and soon they aren't fighting their feelings.
This is a really nice romance with some hockey and detective work on the side.
The story had everything in it, a little mystery, hockey, two sweet girls, and two guys who seemed so opposite but fit so well! I can't wait for more in this series.
This is a grumpy detective meets sweet single dad romance that I couldn’t put down. Jackson is a detective who meets Oliver when the clinic Oliver is at is robbed at gunpoint. Oliver is hockey player, widowed with two young children
There's mutual attraction on both sides and soon they aren't fighting their feelings.
This is a really nice romance with some hockey and detective work on the side.
The story had everything in it, a little mystery, hockey, two sweet girls, and two guys who seemed so opposite but fit so well! I can't wait for more in this series.
June 20, 2024
Oliver has just been traded from New York to LA after losing his wife.
He's still struggling in the aftermath of her passing and trying his best to fit in with his bew team and being a single father.
He becomes embroiled in some dangerous goings on when he walks into a crime and friend being hurt at a clinic he he helps out at.
This is where he meets grumpy detective Jackson who's at odds himself and feeling lonely though he won't admit it.
I really enjoyed the found family aspect with Oliver's new team.
Some police work to solve the crime and hockey playing to round out the book.
I loved the realistic progression of Oliver and Jackson's relationship.
He's still struggling in the aftermath of her passing and trying his best to fit in with his bew team and being a single father.
He becomes embroiled in some dangerous goings on when he walks into a crime and friend being hurt at a clinic he he helps out at.
This is where he meets grumpy detective Jackson who's at odds himself and feeling lonely though he won't admit it.
I really enjoyed the found family aspect with Oliver's new team.
Some police work to solve the crime and hockey playing to round out the book.
I loved the realistic progression of Oliver and Jackson's relationship.
June 6, 2024
Combining danger and a new start. The last thing Oliver thinks wil happen as he is volunteering at the local clinic is have a gun pointed at his face and another coworker hurt in the process, so when it becomes a reality Jackson is the detective that is in charge of finding the perp. But finding a connection and love seem to also be on the agenda. Filled with just enough spark, Oliver and Jackson find themselves falling for something they never saw coming. An adorable read that has more intrigue than hockey - but still a joy to read.
June 19, 2024
The detective and the hockey player! Oliver and Jackson were a new type of pairing for me, and I really liked it! Not often a hockey player is involved in a case like Oliver was. I appreciated this was a romance between two men who had career success but who were also pretty much worn down in different ways in their lives currently. It was wonderful to see Jackson get an instant family. Something new and wonderful to focus his time. And in turn for Oliver to find someone who could love and support all of him and his family.
October 22, 2024
I became attached to grouchy Jackson in the previous book and was glad to see he was getting his HEA here, allowing us to see a more lovable side to his personality. I knew it was there. I enjoyed veering off my usual reading path with a little suspense in the story. It’s not my first choice in romance, but it was woven into the story here in a compelling way. So if you are looking for a little suspense with a detective/hockey player combo, as well as some adorable little girls in a single dad trope, check this one out.
June 10, 2024
3rd I stallment on the series and a great addition. I enjoyed this, it had intrigue as well as a beautiful love story.
I liked how the main characters were thrown together and despite having issues of their own they worked together and found happiness.
Olivers daughters were another highlight in the book and really pulled at my heart strings.
Overall an enjoyable read with plenty to keep you interested. Looking forward to the next one.
I liked how the main characters were thrown together and despite having issues of their own they worked together and found happiness.
Olivers daughters were another highlight in the book and really pulled at my heart strings.
Overall an enjoyable read with plenty to keep you interested. Looking forward to the next one.
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June 20, 2024I love this book! Sweet widowed single dad hockey player and the tough, grumpy detective make for a great read! Beyond the romance, past the hockey, you have an adorable little girl, a case that keeps getting bigger and broader and so much more! This book is just stacked with steam, plot twists and stirred up with sweetness. I hope that some of the spin off characters from the medical center get their chance at an HEA and we get to see more from the L.A. Storm too!
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July 21, 2024I really like this little spin-off series and I thought I could deal with the copaganda, but it's really a lot. We don't even get past the first scene without wholesale misrepresentations of the LAPD. It's one thing to do the whole this one cop is amazing and ethical thing, but to have the character griping about budget cuts (in LA!) or how the residents are wrong to resent new facilities (in LA!) makes it hard to suspend disbelief to get into the character.
October 23, 2024
Not a fan of this book. I liked the premise of it but the execution missed it's mark. I could tell this was written by someone British and so it felt weird reading something that was supposed to have come from a 28 year old that grew up in the US. I have never met one person in the US that ends texts with xx. Additionally the story was just super rushed and focused on things that could have been skipped over and then skipped things that could have been included.
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