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Knoxville Bears #1
Pucks and Books
A romance only book shop owner meets a hockey player that reads only romance.
Louisa McDavid figures after escaping from the cult she grew up in, the universe owes her a happy ending. Her sisters are all safe, she owns her own business, and she doesn’t give a damn what anyone thinks of her. But as a woman in love with love, why has it been so hard for her to find one of the good ones?
Everything changes when Ciaran Carter basically steps out of the pages of one of Louisa’s beloved smutty books and into her romance-only bookstore. Tall, muscular, handsome, and he likes to read? He’s the perfect book boyfriend come to life. And he plays hockey? Bless. It doesn’t get any better.
Louisa and Ciaran strike sparks off each other from the moment they meet. He’s got big dreams, and she’s got big secrets. And together, they’ll set their little corner of Tennessee on fire.
Louisa McDavid figures after escaping from the cult she grew up in, the universe owes her a happy ending. Her sisters are all safe, she owns her own business, and she doesn’t give a damn what anyone thinks of her. But as a woman in love with love, why has it been so hard for her to find one of the good ones?
Everything changes when Ciaran Carter basically steps out of the pages of one of Louisa’s beloved smutty books and into her romance-only bookstore. Tall, muscular, handsome, and he likes to read? He’s the perfect book boyfriend come to life. And he plays hockey? Bless. It doesn’t get any better.
Louisa and Ciaran strike sparks off each other from the moment they meet. He’s got big dreams, and she’s got big secrets. And together, they’ll set their little corner of Tennessee on fire.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2024
940 people are currently reading
1479 people want to read
About the author
Toni Aleo
101 books6,718 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
April 26, 2024
3 stars
I am a huge Toni Aleo fan and I’ve read most of her books. I was looking forward to this one, as we’d met the heroine in a previous book. I mean, a hockey player who reads romance and a romance-only bookstore owner… who wouldn’t want to read about that?
For me personally this was way too much spice with not enough plot and the plot it did have was rushed. It took away from the story and romance for me and made it much less enjoyable than her other works. If you’re looking for a shorter steamy novel, this may be for you, it was just okay for me.
I am a huge Toni Aleo fan and I’ve read most of her books. I was looking forward to this one, as we’d met the heroine in a previous book. I mean, a hockey player who reads romance and a romance-only bookstore owner… who wouldn’t want to read about that?
For me personally this was way too much spice with not enough plot and the plot it did have was rushed. It took away from the story and romance for me and made it much less enjoyable than her other works. If you’re looking for a shorter steamy novel, this may be for you, it was just okay for me.
gave-up-on
June 3, 2024Dropped it like a hot potato after the first page. Reading about the h getting eaten out by a random guy (not H) is NOOOOT my idea of a good book, ugh.
March 30, 2024
I'm a big fan of this author's work but not this one. For me, it was too much sex too soon and not much story. I thought maybe Ciaran's ex was responsible for the accident but it was just random and didn't add anything to the story for me. I found the plot to be lacking, just sex scenes strung together with little else
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2024
For those who want a smut ONLY book.
It reads like someone wrote a character based on what they thought women want in a guy. And whatever happened in that last chunk I thought was going to add some little bit of semblance to the plot, but it didn’t, and I should have know that there wasn’t going to be any plot from the very beginning when they made eye contact and basically fell in love.
1.5 stars is being nice.
It reads like someone wrote a character based on what they thought women want in a guy. And whatever happened in that last chunk I thought was going to add some little bit of semblance to the plot, but it didn’t, and I should have know that there wasn’t going to be any plot from the very beginning when they made eye contact and basically fell in love.
1.5 stars is being nice.
March 30, 2024
I feel like I should have liked this one better. I really liked Lou, liked Ciaran , thought they were both good together, yet something was off for me.
I found it hard to believe that Lou didn't see Ciaran at the store for as long as he had been coming in. The store was her baby, she seemed so in tune anytime time someone came in. And it seemed rude that Ciaran would come into the store and never guy anything, only read there. Their relationship definitely went at fast forward, with only 1 little bump that they quickly got over. Even as both shared hard things from their past and Lou's connection to the team, things were speeding ahead for them.
It was nice to see them get the HEA they deserved.
I found it hard to believe that Lou didn't see Ciaran at the store for as long as he had been coming in. The store was her baby, she seemed so in tune anytime time someone came in. And it seemed rude that Ciaran would come into the store and never guy anything, only read there. Their relationship definitely went at fast forward, with only 1 little bump that they quickly got over. Even as both shared hard things from their past and Lou's connection to the team, things were speeding ahead for them.
It was nice to see them get the HEA they deserved.
June 17, 2024
0 stars. Do not recommend.
The 1 star is for me for actually finishing this.
The 1 star is for me for actually finishing this.
March 29, 2024
You are the heroine in my story.
This is the start to a new series that was hinted at in Toni Aleo's last book (Heavy Shot). Here we find Louisa Mc David - the eldest of the McDavid sisters - who has opened a 'romance-only' bookstore on the outskirts of Knoxville. She helped her sisters escape from the brutal and abusive cult that her mother subjected them to. Now she's a badass business owner in the town where her grandfather owns the new minor league hockey club, an affiliate of the Nashville Assassins. So, a hunky guy's been stopping in her store for weeks, reading the romances... Ciaran Carter has been drafted for the Knoxville team and he's reading in the store to get away from his roommate and decompress. Naturally, the sparks between Louisa and Ciaran eventually set off a fire that is almost unstoppable.
This was a great book about learning to trust in each other and overcome the ghosts from their pasts. Louisa has tried to move on from the cult, but it still haunts here. Ciaran has his own issues with trust. Their chemistry is explosive and undeniable. There is a lot of steam - and it is deliciously fun. I am looking forward to more from this spin-off series.
Quotes I liked:
I have my TBR. I'm never alone.
...Louisa is a risk that is worth the reward.
Louisa in my jersey is the goal I never knew I wanted to score.
This is the start to a new series that was hinted at in Toni Aleo's last book (Heavy Shot). Here we find Louisa Mc David - the eldest of the McDavid sisters - who has opened a 'romance-only' bookstore on the outskirts of Knoxville. She helped her sisters escape from the brutal and abusive cult that her mother subjected them to. Now she's a badass business owner in the town where her grandfather owns the new minor league hockey club, an affiliate of the Nashville Assassins. So, a hunky guy's been stopping in her store for weeks, reading the romances... Ciaran Carter has been drafted for the Knoxville team and he's reading in the store to get away from his roommate and decompress. Naturally, the sparks between Louisa and Ciaran eventually set off a fire that is almost unstoppable.
This was a great book about learning to trust in each other and overcome the ghosts from their pasts. Louisa has tried to move on from the cult, but it still haunts here. Ciaran has his own issues with trust. Their chemistry is explosive and undeniable. There is a lot of steam - and it is deliciously fun. I am looking forward to more from this spin-off series.
Quotes I liked:
I have my TBR. I'm never alone.
...Louisa is a risk that is worth the reward.
Louisa in my jersey is the goal I never knew I wanted to score.
April 23, 2024
On paper, this book should have been right up my alley.
-Hockey Player MMC
-Romance Bookstore Owner FMC
This book is for the type A millennial girlies. Full of bookish trends, and obviously written out of affection for the subject matter. But I feel like it could have used more developmental editing.
The logic doesn’t always flow. Instalove (and the FMC calls it this multiple times) is hard enough to rationally justify in fantasy where magic can be involved, and I don’t see a way to make it work in contemporary romance.
I have zero issues with a book being smutty, but here it was so heavy handed that it felt like it came at the expense of plot and characterization. The MCs have their stories, but we didn’t get much on anyone else, or even really on them beyond the traumas that shaped them and the passions they pursued.
For how much certain events impacted the FMC and her family, for the third act fracas to be entirely unrelated, and not only unrelated, but completely random, felt strange and shoehorned in.
And on an end note, there are real logistical and long term questions the MCs need to figure out and actually asked early on, but they’re entirely forgotten in the epilogue and no hints to how they were or would be resolved.
There were things I liked about this book, and some one liners I thought were great, but I’m kind of bummed because this book has the bones to be really good, and I wish it was more.
-Hockey Player MMC
-Romance Bookstore Owner FMC
This book is for the type A millennial girlies. Full of bookish trends, and obviously written out of affection for the subject matter. But I feel like it could have used more developmental editing.
The logic doesn’t always flow. Instalove (and the FMC calls it this multiple times) is hard enough to rationally justify in fantasy where magic can be involved, and I don’t see a way to make it work in contemporary romance.
I have zero issues with a book being smutty, but here it was so heavy handed that it felt like it came at the expense of plot and characterization. The MCs have their stories, but we didn’t get much on anyone else, or even really on them beyond the traumas that shaped them and the passions they pursued.
For how much certain events impacted the FMC and her family, for the third act fracas to be entirely unrelated, and not only unrelated, but completely random, felt strange and shoehorned in.
And on an end note, there are real logistical and long term questions the MCs need to figure out and actually asked early on, but they’re entirely forgotten in the epilogue and no hints to how they were or would be resolved.
There were things I liked about this book, and some one liners I thought were great, but I’m kind of bummed because this book has the bones to be really good, and I wish it was more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2024
5 Star Review Pucks and Books (Knoxville Bears Book 1) by Toni Aleo
Having read numerous books from Toni Aleo I couldn’t wait to read Pucks and Books, Two of my favourite things combined, books and hockey and learning that this is the first book in her latest series was a bonus.
Louisa McDavid hasn’t had an easy life. After escaping the cult she grew up in she now owns her own business, a romance only bookshop and I loved the sound of that.
Meeting hockey player Ciaran Carter he seems to her to be a perfect book boyfriend. The sparks fly from the moment they meet and the chemistry between them sizzled. Neither of them were looking for love but they were perfect for one another.
I loved how their relationship developed and the secondary characters. Louisa is such a strong woman and one I admired. Ciaran has been burnt before and I loved how he took a chance and found happiness with Louisa.
Having read numerous books from Toni Aleo I couldn’t wait to read Pucks and Books, Two of my favourite things combined, books and hockey and learning that this is the first book in her latest series was a bonus.
Louisa McDavid hasn’t had an easy life. After escaping the cult she grew up in she now owns her own business, a romance only bookshop and I loved the sound of that.
Meeting hockey player Ciaran Carter he seems to her to be a perfect book boyfriend. The sparks fly from the moment they meet and the chemistry between them sizzled. Neither of them were looking for love but they were perfect for one another.
I loved how their relationship developed and the secondary characters. Louisa is such a strong woman and one I admired. Ciaran has been burnt before and I loved how he took a chance and found happiness with Louisa.
dnf
June 15, 2024There are no words for how bad this book was. DNF at 47% and I can’t believe I even made it that far.
August 27, 2024
meh
Not anywhere near the top my favorites from toni. The book felt like it wasn’t written by here. Just overall very odd. Rushed and no development.
Not anywhere near the top my favorites from toni. The book felt like it wasn’t written by here. Just overall very odd. Rushed and no development.
August 26, 2024
Louisa saved her sisters and herself, escaping a cult. She has taken time to heal and has now opened her own business, her sisters are doing well and life is going well. She is, however, looking for her own happily ever after. She meets Ciaran, who is not only a hot hockey player, but also a lover of her favourite book genre, romance. Sparks fly on the first meeting, and they are drawn to each other. Both having experiences in their past make them a little gunshy, they have to decide if they are going to give each other a chance or let the past control their future.
At its heart, this book is about learning to love and trust. But there is some mega instalove in it. They hit it off upon first meeting, and are in love quickly after. Ciaran is the perfect person for Louisa, loving, patient and kind. Even more, Louisa is working hard to overcome the pain of the cult she was in, and Ciaran just loves her so much.
I loved Louisa and her sisters. They have all experienced the cult they were in in different ways. Louisa was the protector and loves her siblings so much and did everything she could to protect them.
This was a great story, with great character development. Though the two struggled at times, they were able to overcome the obstacles standing in their way and get their happily ever after.
Read if you like: instalove, hockey,
At its heart, this book is about learning to love and trust. But there is some mega instalove in it. They hit it off upon first meeting, and are in love quickly after. Ciaran is the perfect person for Louisa, loving, patient and kind. Even more, Louisa is working hard to overcome the pain of the cult she was in, and Ciaran just loves her so much.
I loved Louisa and her sisters. They have all experienced the cult they were in in different ways. Louisa was the protector and loves her siblings so much and did everything she could to protect them.
This was a great story, with great character development. Though the two struggled at times, they were able to overcome the obstacles standing in their way and get their happily ever after.
Read if you like: instalove, hockey,
March 25, 2024
Learning to Trust
A series starter that was introduced or teased in the author’s last book, Heavy Shot. Louisa McDavid is the oldest McDavid sister, she helped her sisters escape a terrible cult situation.
Louisa has become a successful business owner of her Romance Only bookstore. She is not looking for a relationship, but a man who can perform as well as her “book boyfriends”. Ciaran is a hockey player and has been just drafted to the local team. He also loves to read romance. Can he change the way Louisa feels about men? They hit it off, but both must work through issues and learn to trust.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
A series starter that was introduced or teased in the author’s last book, Heavy Shot. Louisa McDavid is the oldest McDavid sister, she helped her sisters escape a terrible cult situation.
Louisa has become a successful business owner of her Romance Only bookstore. She is not looking for a relationship, but a man who can perform as well as her “book boyfriends”. Ciaran is a hockey player and has been just drafted to the local team. He also loves to read romance. Can he change the way Louisa feels about men? They hit it off, but both must work through issues and learn to trust.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
April 13, 2024
Pucks and Books was the first book in the Knoxville Bears series by Toni Aleo. It was a spin off from her Nashville Assasins series but can be read as a standalone series.
I enjoyed both characters, Louisa and Ciaran. Louisa escaped from a cult with her sisters and moved to her grandfather’s town to start over. She owned a local romance bookstore. Ciaran was playing hockey for the new AHL team with dreams of making it to the big league. He loved books and reading was his relaxation and hobby outside of hockey. Sparks clicked from the beginning and the story was off and running. All in all, it was a quick and lighthearted read.
I enjoyed both characters, Louisa and Ciaran. Louisa escaped from a cult with her sisters and moved to her grandfather’s town to start over. She owned a local romance bookstore. Ciaran was playing hockey for the new AHL team with dreams of making it to the big league. He loved books and reading was his relaxation and hobby outside of hockey. Sparks clicked from the beginning and the story was off and running. All in all, it was a quick and lighthearted read.
May 30, 2024
"The Persephone to my Hades."
"The Beast to my Beauty."
Ciaran Carter is a cinnamon roll...with a filthy mouth.
Louisa McDavid is feisty, take no holds typa chick.
Loved their banter, the smut was fire, storyline was meh but the characters more than made up for it. Can't wait to read more about Louisa's sisters!
"The Beast to my Beauty."
Ciaran Carter is a cinnamon roll...with a filthy mouth.
Louisa McDavid is feisty, take no holds typa chick.
Loved their banter, the smut was fire, storyline was meh but the characters more than made up for it. Can't wait to read more about Louisa's sisters!
June 7, 2025
This author writes excellent hockey romances and this spinoff from the Nashville Assassins is no deviation from that excellence. A twist in a boy who likes to read romance and a girl who escapes from a cult, but it works.
June 21, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down
Read it in almost one sitting with a few interruptions from my child. But tbe characters had a lot of struggle on their own but I wanted to see them struggle more as a couple. Lots of spice.
Read it in almost one sitting with a few interruptions from my child. But tbe characters had a lot of struggle on their own but I wanted to see them struggle more as a couple. Lots of spice.
April 15, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this new series! Looking forward to the next book!!
January 3, 2025
I really liked how fast paced the book was. I think it lacked some plot.
August 27, 2025
2,5🌟
Potential was there, but unfortunately too much focus on the “book boyfriends/book romance” to the point where it wasn’t special or cute anymore. I also would’ve loved to read more about her cult experiences, because right now it feels stuffed in there to make her story as a character more interesting. It was a cute & fast read.
Potential was there, but unfortunately too much focus on the “book boyfriends/book romance” to the point where it wasn’t special or cute anymore. I also would’ve loved to read more about her cult experiences, because right now it feels stuffed in there to make her story as a character more interesting. It was a cute & fast read.
November 13, 2024
I've learned I strongly dislike instalove. But it was a hockey romance, so it still gets 3 stars
April 8, 2024
This was my first book by this author
I only picked it up because I saw the dedication on the Internet and was like, yes, please.
It is a hard review because I loved the characters and setting. I liked the back stories and how they were explored in the present and impacted the relationship.
However, I wasn't feeling the instalove. The insta luat was perfect. I felt that in my reader's soul, but the immediate ohmigod you are the love of my life meant that there wasn't really a plot. The remainder of the book was just Louisa and Ciaran being perfect and saying highlightable quotes to one another.
I would definitely pick up another by the author, though, because I did enjoy the writing. It was Steamy, easy to read and funny at times. The emotional elements were there, and the character's histories were well-thought out.
I think this one just lacked the angst I usually like, or at least was too perfect too early on.
I only picked it up because I saw the dedication on the Internet and was like, yes, please.
It is a hard review because I loved the characters and setting. I liked the back stories and how they were explored in the present and impacted the relationship.
However, I wasn't feeling the instalove. The insta luat was perfect. I felt that in my reader's soul, but the immediate ohmigod you are the love of my life meant that there wasn't really a plot. The remainder of the book was just Louisa and Ciaran being perfect and saying highlightable quotes to one another.
I would definitely pick up another by the author, though, because I did enjoy the writing. It was Steamy, easy to read and funny at times. The emotional elements were there, and the character's histories were well-thought out.
I think this one just lacked the angst I usually like, or at least was too perfect too early on.
April 2, 2024
Let me preface to by saying I have loved EVERYTHING that Ms. Aleo has released and read them all..sometimes more than once, but for me this one just missed the mark. I loved Louisa’s backstory and her relationship with her sisters. I loved her take no guff attitude towards her shop and what she likes. Now, Ciaran, not a fan. I just couldn’t connect with him and his story. The intensity between the two characters just felt contrived and forced. Again, this is the first book I wasn’t a huge fan of. I’m sure it’s just a one off and very much look forward to the rest of the series. I would still highly recommend you read if you like slightly nerdy characters and a whole lot of dirty.
April 18, 2024
I am a HUGE Toni Aleo fan. Usually her books have sparkling personalities, fiery chemistry in and out of bed, a good story and ALL the feels. This book didn't for me. No story to speak of and too much s*x. If you like that it starts out of nowhere and then continues every five seconds through the whole book, you'll love it! I need more story and feelings to care what happens.
March 26, 2024
Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU Toni Aleo!!!
When I first read Heavy Shot, book 7 in Ms. Aleo’s Nashville Assassins: Next Generation series, I absolutely wanted Austen’s sisters to have their own HEA especially after what they had all gone through. Sorry Ladies, you will need to read Heavy Shot, or now Pucks and Books, book 1 in Ms. Aleo’s new Knoxville Bears series to find out what happened. I was ecstatic when I found out weeks ago that my wish was coming true and could not wait for it/them to hit my Kindle (happy dance).
When it did arrive, I could not read it fast enough! Unfortunately, I read too fast to explain the magnitude of my love of this book, so, I read it again!! Yep, I read it twice. So, my review…
OH MY GOSH, the strength of Louisa McDavid…AMAZING!!! The absolute love for her sisters… I cannot explain without giving anything away. Let me explain this, Louisa and her sisters were born into a cult, (I sooooo want to get my hands on Louisa’s so-called mother…). I will put this as nicely as I can, it was a cult of he11 for any child born into it. Louisa did anything and everything she could to get her sisters and herself out to safety with their Peepaw (grandfather). Louisa has since opened a “romance only” bookstore, Dirty Pages, proving the cult did not destroy her need for true romance.
Ciaran Carter is an avid reader, his earlies memories are of his grandma reading to him. Then he found his mom’s Harlequin books, and let me put it this way, when he reached his teenage years, there was no need for “those” magazines … When Ciaran moved to Knoxville, he found a place he could feed his addiction for those “5mutty” books, a store called Dirty Pages, and visits often. Sitting in his favorite chair in the store, reading of course, he overhears the owner and her sister talking about Persephone, Hades, her love of pomegranates and how men are selfish when is comes to satisfying a woman… Eliza, Louisa’s sister, tells her that not all men are that way and reminds her of her sister Austen’s fiancé Dimitri, a hockey player for the Nashville Assassins and not a d… Eliza also reminds her hockey players are coming to Knoxville… Did I mention that Ciaran is one of those players for the new Knoxville Bears hockey team Dan Davenport brought to town. Oops, I also forgot to mention, Dan Davenport is Louisa’s Peepaw… And he also loves pomegranates…
I loved their first encounter with the pomegranate muffins, each thinking of the others’ love of pomegranates. The beginning of their love story. There are so many things I really enjoyed about this book, but I do not want to give anything away.
This book brought on so many emotions for me: laughter, anger, worry. There was one part where I was almost crying with Ciaran’s reactions when the accident happened. Again, sorry Ladies, I will not give anything away.
I was gifted, via Franci with a copy of this MOST WONDERFUL book because of my love of romance aka “smut” books and for my thoughts and opinions of the book. Thank you, Franci O for all you do.
Thank you, Ms. Aleo. I cannot thank you enough for sharing your phenomenal writing talents with your readers. I cannot tell you the hours and hours of reading and listening pleasure your writing has blessed me with.
Okay, reader, you have read my review due to your interest in this book. For what are you waiting? Go hit that purchase button and get reading. I know, if you love a great romance book as much as I do, you will love this book as well. Happy reading!!!
When I first read Heavy Shot, book 7 in Ms. Aleo’s Nashville Assassins: Next Generation series, I absolutely wanted Austen’s sisters to have their own HEA especially after what they had all gone through. Sorry Ladies, you will need to read Heavy Shot, or now Pucks and Books, book 1 in Ms. Aleo’s new Knoxville Bears series to find out what happened. I was ecstatic when I found out weeks ago that my wish was coming true and could not wait for it/them to hit my Kindle (happy dance).
When it did arrive, I could not read it fast enough! Unfortunately, I read too fast to explain the magnitude of my love of this book, so, I read it again!! Yep, I read it twice. So, my review…
OH MY GOSH, the strength of Louisa McDavid…AMAZING!!! The absolute love for her sisters… I cannot explain without giving anything away. Let me explain this, Louisa and her sisters were born into a cult, (I sooooo want to get my hands on Louisa’s so-called mother…). I will put this as nicely as I can, it was a cult of he11 for any child born into it. Louisa did anything and everything she could to get her sisters and herself out to safety with their Peepaw (grandfather). Louisa has since opened a “romance only” bookstore, Dirty Pages, proving the cult did not destroy her need for true romance.
Ciaran Carter is an avid reader, his earlies memories are of his grandma reading to him. Then he found his mom’s Harlequin books, and let me put it this way, when he reached his teenage years, there was no need for “those” magazines … When Ciaran moved to Knoxville, he found a place he could feed his addiction for those “5mutty” books, a store called Dirty Pages, and visits often. Sitting in his favorite chair in the store, reading of course, he overhears the owner and her sister talking about Persephone, Hades, her love of pomegranates and how men are selfish when is comes to satisfying a woman… Eliza, Louisa’s sister, tells her that not all men are that way and reminds her of her sister Austen’s fiancé Dimitri, a hockey player for the Nashville Assassins and not a d… Eliza also reminds her hockey players are coming to Knoxville… Did I mention that Ciaran is one of those players for the new Knoxville Bears hockey team Dan Davenport brought to town. Oops, I also forgot to mention, Dan Davenport is Louisa’s Peepaw… And he also loves pomegranates…
I loved their first encounter with the pomegranate muffins, each thinking of the others’ love of pomegranates. The beginning of their love story. There are so many things I really enjoyed about this book, but I do not want to give anything away.
This book brought on so many emotions for me: laughter, anger, worry. There was one part where I was almost crying with Ciaran’s reactions when the accident happened. Again, sorry Ladies, I will not give anything away.
I was gifted, via Franci with a copy of this MOST WONDERFUL book because of my love of romance aka “smut” books and for my thoughts and opinions of the book. Thank you, Franci O for all you do.
Thank you, Ms. Aleo. I cannot thank you enough for sharing your phenomenal writing talents with your readers. I cannot tell you the hours and hours of reading and listening pleasure your writing has blessed me with.
Okay, reader, you have read my review due to your interest in this book. For what are you waiting? Go hit that purchase button and get reading. I know, if you love a great romance book as much as I do, you will love this book as well. Happy reading!!!
March 11, 2024
Pucks and Books (Knoxville Bears Book 1)
By: Toni Aleo
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Sweet together!
Oh this book definitely had me in my book loving book boyfriend feels. Louisa and Ciaran couldn’t be a better match you’ll just need to get through all the heartbreak first. So worth it.
The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: A romance only book shop owner meets a hockey player that reads only romance.
Louisa McDavid figures after escaping from the cult she grew up in, the universe owes her a happy ending. Her sisters are all safe, she owns her own business, and she doesn’t give a damn what anyone thinks of her. But as a woman in love with love, why has it been so hard for her to find one of the good ones?
Everything changes when Ciaran Carter basically steps out of the pages of one of Louisa’s beloved smutty books and into her romance-only bookstore. Tall, muscular, handsome, and he likes to read? He’s the perfect book boyfriend come to life. And he plays hockey? Bless. It doesn’t get any better.
Louisa and Ciaran strike sparks off each other from the moment they meet. He’s got big dreams, and she’s got big secrets. And together, they’ll set their little corner of Tennessee on fire.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Toni Aleo
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Sweet together!
Oh this book definitely had me in my book loving book boyfriend feels. Louisa and Ciaran couldn’t be a better match you’ll just need to get through all the heartbreak first. So worth it.
The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: A romance only book shop owner meets a hockey player that reads only romance.
Louisa McDavid figures after escaping from the cult she grew up in, the universe owes her a happy ending. Her sisters are all safe, she owns her own business, and she doesn’t give a damn what anyone thinks of her. But as a woman in love with love, why has it been so hard for her to find one of the good ones?
Everything changes when Ciaran Carter basically steps out of the pages of one of Louisa’s beloved smutty books and into her romance-only bookstore. Tall, muscular, handsome, and he likes to read? He’s the perfect book boyfriend come to life. And he plays hockey? Bless. It doesn’t get any better.
Louisa and Ciaran strike sparks off each other from the moment they meet. He’s got big dreams, and she’s got big secrets. And together, they’ll set their little corner of Tennessee on fire.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
March 24, 2024
Ms. Also has done it again and I can't wait for more. This was a fantastic way to begin a new series. Ciaran is the best of both worlds; he loves hockey and reading. He goes into the book store as often as he can and sits in 'his' chair to read. He has always been attracted to Louisa, but has never gone up to her and talked. Louisa is a fighter and has built her book store from the ground up. She has overcome a lot and is ranting to one of her sisters about how she wished she could find a man like she reads about in her books. He overhears the conversation, she is mortified, but it starts a conversation between them.
Ciaran treats her well, but is scared to open up after his high school girlfriend destroyed his trust. He can't seem to stay away from her and they are fire together. He is determined to make it to the NHL and is honest with her about that. He decides that he can't have any distractions, so he breaks up with her; or tries to at least. Instead, he is calling her from the parking lot where he can see her and when she breaks down after they hang up, he regrets what he did. When he goes back to talk to her and explain, she reluctantly agreeds.
Louisa can't believe that someone as good looking as Ciaran would be interested in her, but she isn't going to beg him to be with her. She has overcome a lot in her life and has saved her sisters' lives and her own. Her book store and reading bring her joy, but she isn't sure she will ever find someone who treats her well, especially after what happened to her in the past. When he breaks up with her, she isn't sure what she did wrong, but vows to move on with her life. When he comes back and asks to explain she is hopeful, but cautious.
I loved every minute of this book, even the hard to read parts. His ex girlfriend is a piece of work who really did destroy his heart and her childhood was horrific. I was happy to see how he reacted when he found out the truth of her past. I only wish there was a way for him to actually come fact to face with them. I really hope her sisters get books in this series and that his best friend, even if Ciaran seems irritated at times, gets a HEA as well. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Ciaran treats her well, but is scared to open up after his high school girlfriend destroyed his trust. He can't seem to stay away from her and they are fire together. He is determined to make it to the NHL and is honest with her about that. He decides that he can't have any distractions, so he breaks up with her; or tries to at least. Instead, he is calling her from the parking lot where he can see her and when she breaks down after they hang up, he regrets what he did. When he goes back to talk to her and explain, she reluctantly agreeds.
Louisa can't believe that someone as good looking as Ciaran would be interested in her, but she isn't going to beg him to be with her. She has overcome a lot in her life and has saved her sisters' lives and her own. Her book store and reading bring her joy, but she isn't sure she will ever find someone who treats her well, especially after what happened to her in the past. When he breaks up with her, she isn't sure what she did wrong, but vows to move on with her life. When he comes back and asks to explain she is hopeful, but cautious.
I loved every minute of this book, even the hard to read parts. His ex girlfriend is a piece of work who really did destroy his heart and her childhood was horrific. I was happy to see how he reacted when he found out the truth of her past. I only wish there was a way for him to actually come fact to face with them. I really hope her sisters get books in this series and that his best friend, even if Ciaran seems irritated at times, gets a HEA as well. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
March 23, 2024
Toni Aleo, the maestro of romance, strikes gold again with her latest heartwarming tale, "Pucks and Books." In this delightful story, Toni introduces us to Louisa McDavid, the spirited owner of Dirty Pages, a bookstore specializing in romance novels, and Ciaran Carter, a hockey player with dreams as big as his heart, who stumbles into Louisa's bookstore and promptly sweeps her off her feet. Their unexpected encounter sets off a chain reaction of sparks, secrets, and undeniable chemistry that will have you rooting for them from page one.
Louisa is a force to be reckoned with, overcoming a challenging past to build a life on her own terms. Her love for romance novels mirrors her longing for a fairy tale ending, and when Ciaran walks into her store, he seems to embody every dreamy hero she's ever read about. As for Ciaran, he's more than just a hockey player; he's a devoted reader of romance, making him the ultimate book boyfriend material. Their romance is a whirlwind of passion and intensity, fueled by their shared love of books and a desire for something more. As they navigate the challenges of their pasts and the uncertainties of their futures, readers will find themselves cheering for their happily ever after every step of the way.
Toni’s ability to infuse her stories with heart and humor, and crafting characters that feel like old friends, is no exception in this tale. From Louisa's unwavering resilience to Ciaran's irresistible charm, every aspect of their personalities shines through, making them utterly endearing to readers. From laugh-out-loud moments to tender, heartfelt scenes, she effortlessly captures the essence of love in all its forms. With Eliza, Elliot, Clara, the vibrant sisters, and the backdrop of the hockey world, there's never a dull moment in this enchanting tale.
Overall, "Pucks and Books" is a delightful start to a new series that promises to capture readers' hearts everywhere. With its lovable characters, engaging plot, and irresistible romance, it's a book that will leave you longing for more. I cannot wait to read stories of Eliza, Elliot, Clara, and more of the Knoxville Bears! So, grab a copy, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Louisa, Ciaran, and the enchanting world of Dirty Pages.
Happy reading!
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: For sure :)
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review was originally posted on: https://miabookaddict.com/
Louisa is a force to be reckoned with, overcoming a challenging past to build a life on her own terms. Her love for romance novels mirrors her longing for a fairy tale ending, and when Ciaran walks into her store, he seems to embody every dreamy hero she's ever read about. As for Ciaran, he's more than just a hockey player; he's a devoted reader of romance, making him the ultimate book boyfriend material. Their romance is a whirlwind of passion and intensity, fueled by their shared love of books and a desire for something more. As they navigate the challenges of their pasts and the uncertainties of their futures, readers will find themselves cheering for their happily ever after every step of the way.
Toni’s ability to infuse her stories with heart and humor, and crafting characters that feel like old friends, is no exception in this tale. From Louisa's unwavering resilience to Ciaran's irresistible charm, every aspect of their personalities shines through, making them utterly endearing to readers. From laugh-out-loud moments to tender, heartfelt scenes, she effortlessly captures the essence of love in all its forms. With Eliza, Elliot, Clara, the vibrant sisters, and the backdrop of the hockey world, there's never a dull moment in this enchanting tale.
Overall, "Pucks and Books" is a delightful start to a new series that promises to capture readers' hearts everywhere. With its lovable characters, engaging plot, and irresistible romance, it's a book that will leave you longing for more. I cannot wait to read stories of Eliza, Elliot, Clara, and more of the Knoxville Bears! So, grab a copy, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Louisa, Ciaran, and the enchanting world of Dirty Pages.
Happy reading!
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: For sure :)
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review was originally posted on: https://miabookaddict.com/
March 26, 2024
Toni Aleo, I don't know how you are going to top Pucks and Books but I look forward to devouring every book that you write. Thank you for bringing the Assassins into the story. It was the first series of yours that I fell in love with. Now I have fallen in love with your writing all over again with a new series.
I suggest you grab the tissues. Pucks and Books will grab at your heart. Louisa has suffered so much in her past. She took punishment to protect her sisters. What she experienced will have you in tears, hurting for her and hoping she finds happiness. Her continuing struggles were heartbreaking.
Louisa owns the most fantastic bookstore, a store specializing in all romance genres. I could get lost in a store like that. Ciaran, hockey player, does get lost in the store. He visits twice a week, sitting in the same chair each and every time. Louisa is so lost in her store, in herself, she has no clue he is there.
I loved how Louisa was venting over men after being disappointed once again. Cairan sat in his chair and listened. When she discovers the gorgeous hockey player visits all the time she is shocked. Her sister, Eliza, had never said anything to her. She didn't know he has been watching her, admiring her, wanting her. The magic of a muffin brings them together.
Their relationship starts off hot and heavy. I swear steam escaped from the pages. The author has been turning up the heat within her books. She will get no complaints from me. I frequently skim over sex scenes in books, but not this time. Holy moly, hot hockey player!! He has met his match in Louisa.
Louisa and Cairan's journey to happily ever after is full of sad and tragic pasts and a not so easy present. I can't think of another character, that deserves a beautiful future more than Louisa. Cairan's words are beautiful. I never thought words could be so healing. I will be swooning of Cairan for days to come. I don't know when I will be ready to move on for Pucks and Books. I honestly don't know if I want to move on from this fantastic romance.
I suggest you grab the tissues. Pucks and Books will grab at your heart. Louisa has suffered so much in her past. She took punishment to protect her sisters. What she experienced will have you in tears, hurting for her and hoping she finds happiness. Her continuing struggles were heartbreaking.
Louisa owns the most fantastic bookstore, a store specializing in all romance genres. I could get lost in a store like that. Ciaran, hockey player, does get lost in the store. He visits twice a week, sitting in the same chair each and every time. Louisa is so lost in her store, in herself, she has no clue he is there.
I loved how Louisa was venting over men after being disappointed once again. Cairan sat in his chair and listened. When she discovers the gorgeous hockey player visits all the time she is shocked. Her sister, Eliza, had never said anything to her. She didn't know he has been watching her, admiring her, wanting her. The magic of a muffin brings them together.
Their relationship starts off hot and heavy. I swear steam escaped from the pages. The author has been turning up the heat within her books. She will get no complaints from me. I frequently skim over sex scenes in books, but not this time. Holy moly, hot hockey player!! He has met his match in Louisa.
Louisa and Cairan's journey to happily ever after is full of sad and tragic pasts and a not so easy present. I can't think of another character, that deserves a beautiful future more than Louisa. Cairan's words are beautiful. I never thought words could be so healing. I will be swooning of Cairan for days to come. I don't know when I will be ready to move on for Pucks and Books. I honestly don't know if I want to move on from this fantastic romance.
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