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The Downside of Dating #2
Walk of Shame
8 hours, 45 minutes
Don’t miss Astrid’s story, in Walk of Shame !
One night. No strings. And a really good puck.
Five years ago, Astrid O’Malley experienced the ultimate in public humiliation. Being dumped at the altar by her childhood sweetheart was horrifying enough. That fact that he was a professional hockey goalie and her dad was his coach? It was all anyone in sports could talk about. Eff hockey. Eff goalies.
These days, Astrid lives a life (mostly) free of hockey and free to pursue whoever she wants with exactly zero shame in her game. Like tonight’s hook-up. This guy’s nailed the lumberjack aesthetic perfectly.
Especially when he has the stamina and creativity to back it up.
Because the rule is: it’s one night only. Which is gonna be a problem because she’s just discovered he lives in the apartment upstairs.
And he’s joined her dad’s team. As the goalie coach. To train her ex.
Now Astrid is in some kind of hockey hell—filled with her ex, her family, and the best sex of her life. And somehow she’s been roped back onto the team.
Puck my life.
Don’t miss Astrid’s story, in Walk of Shame !
One night. No strings. And a really good puck.
Five years ago, Astrid O’Malley experienced the ultimate in public humiliation. Being dumped at the altar by her childhood sweetheart was horrifying enough. That fact that he was a professional hockey goalie and her dad was his coach? It was all anyone in sports could talk about. Eff hockey. Eff goalies.
These days, Astrid lives a life (mostly) free of hockey and free to pursue whoever she wants with exactly zero shame in her game. Like tonight’s hook-up. This guy’s nailed the lumberjack aesthetic perfectly.
Especially when he has the stamina and creativity to back it up.
Because the rule is: it’s one night only. Which is gonna be a problem because she’s just discovered he lives in the apartment upstairs.
And he’s joined her dad’s team. As the goalie coach. To train her ex.
Now Astrid is in some kind of hockey hell—filled with her ex, her family, and the best sex of her life. And somehow she’s been roped back onto the team.
Puck my life.
9 pages, Audiobook
Published February 20, 2024
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12206 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 647 reviews
February 20, 2024
Walk of Shame by Avery Flynn
Downside of Dating series #2. Contemporary sports romance, romantic comedy. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Astrid O’Malley was once dumped by a professional hockey goalie so has sworn off the game and won’t let the topic be discussed when she’s bartending at the family bar. Eff hockey. Eff goalies is her motto. After a hot and steamy night with a man she met at the bar, she finds out he is a goalie coach and her dad wants her to come back for his last year as coach to help. Her rule is one night only. But this gorgeous and sexy man lives in her building! And Astrid is going to be working with him! How is she going to stay away from him when their night was so very good? Puck my life.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood. The performances were on point with humor and passion. The narrators were engaging and easy to follow. The dialog itself was often funny and they put their own spin on the recording that made the story fly. I listens to this at 1.5 which is my most comfortable based on conversational speed.
Amusing, engaging, and steamy hot. I loved the Diet Coke theme that ran consistently through the story, although I admit to preferring Diet Pepsi myself. I often pack it in suitcases when traveling exactly as Astrid does. I also admit to missing out on the experience of picking up a hot stranger from a bar. It does sound like an experience I shouldn’t have missed!
Light hearted humor with a lack of reverence that I thoroughly enjoyed.
4.5
I received a copy of the audiobook from NetGalley and RB Media.
Downside of Dating series #2. Contemporary sports romance, romantic comedy. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Astrid O’Malley was once dumped by a professional hockey goalie so has sworn off the game and won’t let the topic be discussed when she’s bartending at the family bar. Eff hockey. Eff goalies is her motto. After a hot and steamy night with a man she met at the bar, she finds out he is a goalie coach and her dad wants her to come back for his last year as coach to help. Her rule is one night only. But this gorgeous and sexy man lives in her building! And Astrid is going to be working with him! How is she going to stay away from him when their night was so very good? Puck my life.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood. The performances were on point with humor and passion. The narrators were engaging and easy to follow. The dialog itself was often funny and they put their own spin on the recording that made the story fly. I listens to this at 1.5 which is my most comfortable based on conversational speed.
Amusing, engaging, and steamy hot. I loved the Diet Coke theme that ran consistently through the story, although I admit to preferring Diet Pepsi myself. I often pack it in suitcases when traveling exactly as Astrid does. I also admit to missing out on the experience of picking up a hot stranger from a bar. It does sound like an experience I shouldn’t have missed!
Light hearted humor with a lack of reverence that I thoroughly enjoyed.
4.5
I received a copy of the audiobook from NetGalley and RB Media.
March 9, 2024
Steamy and smoking hot! So much love for this one but I don’t like the ending ☹️
~~~~~~~~~~~~
From the first time I read a book by Flynn I was captivated because she unashamedly writes her characters enjoying life. Her characters are realistic – enjoying food, enjoying other people, maybe a little overweight and built, and definitely not perfect.
This book is a great example of why I enjoy this author so much. Flynn is the type of author who creates characters that you can really identify with the fact that they enjoy themselves without too much remorse.
From the beginning of Walk of Shame and all the way throughout, this author knows how to humanize her characters. Not only do we enjoy their personality, but also the building of the relationship throughout the story.
Her supporting characters are interesting and add a lot to the story. Astrid’s love interest is a sweetheart and oh, they are perfect together! Simmering heat and a connection that sizzles!
Flynn is funny and writes in an addictive style that makes it tough to stop reading. I love that it is low angst as I love to escape into my stories and this author pulls you right in!
Fast-paced, steamy, sweet, and a wee bit emotional, Walk of Shame is a fabulous read. The spoiler for me was the ending! I wanted soooo much more!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/walk-of-sham...
~~~~~~~~~~~~
From the first time I read a book by Flynn I was captivated because she unashamedly writes her characters enjoying life. Her characters are realistic – enjoying food, enjoying other people, maybe a little overweight and built, and definitely not perfect.
This book is a great example of why I enjoy this author so much. Flynn is the type of author who creates characters that you can really identify with the fact that they enjoy themselves without too much remorse.
From the beginning of Walk of Shame and all the way throughout, this author knows how to humanize her characters. Not only do we enjoy their personality, but also the building of the relationship throughout the story.
Her supporting characters are interesting and add a lot to the story. Astrid’s love interest is a sweetheart and oh, they are perfect together! Simmering heat and a connection that sizzles!
Flynn is funny and writes in an addictive style that makes it tough to stop reading. I love that it is low angst as I love to escape into my stories and this author pulls you right in!
Fast-paced, steamy, sweet, and a wee bit emotional, Walk of Shame is a fabulous read. The spoiler for me was the ending! I wanted soooo much more!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/walk-of-sham...
April 20, 2024
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Walk of Shame is a hockey-themed rom-com that follows Astrid and Cal’s story.
Five years ago, Astrid was left by her ex-fiancé, who happened to be a professional hockey player, on her wedding day. She swore herself off relationship-related dramas and turned her back on hockey ever since. Cal is a former player who suffered an injury that ended his career; he’s now returning to the ice through coaching. When they first meet, sparks fly and they’re never to meet again. Except they live in the same apartment building. And he’s working with her father. And her ex.
I really liked Astrid and seeing her navigating through her feelings and thoughts to move past the incident and become stronger. And Cal was endearing as well. When it comes to the couple, they have obvious chemistry – still, although I liked and enjoyed them, I felt like their story was a bit rushed. The main conflict was evident from the beginning, and everything just happened so fast. The plot wasn’t all convincing, but the book was very enjoyable and you should definitely give it a shot!
Thanks to Valentine PR, NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC to this book.
Walk of Shame is a hockey-themed rom-com that follows Astrid and Cal’s story.
Five years ago, Astrid was left by her ex-fiancé, who happened to be a professional hockey player, on her wedding day. She swore herself off relationship-related dramas and turned her back on hockey ever since. Cal is a former player who suffered an injury that ended his career; he’s now returning to the ice through coaching. When they first meet, sparks fly and they’re never to meet again. Except they live in the same apartment building. And he’s working with her father. And her ex.
I really liked Astrid and seeing her navigating through her feelings and thoughts to move past the incident and become stronger. And Cal was endearing as well. When it comes to the couple, they have obvious chemistry – still, although I liked and enjoyed them, I felt like their story was a bit rushed. The main conflict was evident from the beginning, and everything just happened so fast. The plot wasn’t all convincing, but the book was very enjoyable and you should definitely give it a shot!
Thanks to Valentine PR, NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC to this book.
February 25, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and RB media for an audiocopy of this book.
I did not expect Walknof shame to be as good as it was! Very steamy with an actual storyline and fantastic narrators which actually fit the characters. My favourite character however is the old noisy neighbour with her no nonsense attitude and surprising language.
Plot:
5 years ago Astrid was left at the alter by her superstar Ice hockey goalie fiance Tig when he got a better offer to play for another team. Since then Astrid has sworn off Hockey and men (except for one night no strings attached sex). 5 yrs later she gets an offer she can't refuse to return to the world of Hockey except lines start to become blured when her latest conquest turns out to be her new colleague and neighbour! Can Astrid stick with her self imposed rules?
A good and entertaining book for fans of spicy sports romance.
I did not expect Walknof shame to be as good as it was! Very steamy with an actual storyline and fantastic narrators which actually fit the characters. My favourite character however is the old noisy neighbour with her no nonsense attitude and surprising language.
Plot:
5 years ago Astrid was left at the alter by her superstar Ice hockey goalie fiance Tig when he got a better offer to play for another team. Since then Astrid has sworn off Hockey and men (except for one night no strings attached sex). 5 yrs later she gets an offer she can't refuse to return to the world of Hockey except lines start to become blured when her latest conquest turns out to be her new colleague and neighbour! Can Astrid stick with her self imposed rules?
A good and entertaining book for fans of spicy sports romance.
March 2, 2024
The thing I loved most os the narrators were spot on fir the characters. This is a fun romance told from the two pov. It was refreshing for the steamy romance to use adult language which made it feel more realistic. The story itself was acrion packed and well told via the pov and it felt with the characters were talking directly . I felt their emotions through the narration and i was routing for them to just be together. This was s short listen highly recommended. 5 stars.
Thanks to netgallery and publisher and author and narrators. Perfect gor anyone who wants the reality of romance
Thanks to netgallery and publisher and author and narrators. Perfect gor anyone who wants the reality of romance
February 22, 2024
Got this on NetGalley and absolutely loved it. It was funny and fun. This is a new to me author and I will definitely read her again. Fast moving story that was great from beginning to end.
March 27, 2024
Synopsis:
Astrid is the daughter of an NHL coach. She is left at the altar by an NHL player. Years later, she has a one-night stand with a man named Cal. It turns out that Cal is her ex-fiancés new goalie coach. Astrid is determined to avoid her attraction to Cal as they work for her father’s team.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed the playful yet comical bond between Cal and Astrid. Their temptation and desire are spicy. It gives off the whole I want what I cannot have vibes. I adored how Cal shows his interest in Astrid by paying attention to the little and significant parts of her life. He’s the perfect book boyfriend.
Cal is portrayed as loyal and understanding. I liked that he stands up for his beliefs and doesn’t tolerate disrespect to women. I also liked that Cal found a way to keep doing what he loves but with some accommodations to suit his new reality.
I liked Astrid’s strength and vulnerability. Her story felt relatable in the sense that one’s emotional trauma can follow them after heartbreak. It takes a lot of strength and finding oneself to allow someone new into one’s heart again after being scorned by the one person you thought was forever.
The side characters were funny and exciting. My favorite was Cal’s friend, with whom he shares his accident. Oh, and Astrid’s neighbor was historical. The friendships between Astrid and Cal were vital to their story. I liked how they all contributed to Cal and Astrid's realization of what they meant to one another.
Avery Flynn did an excellent job keeping the story genuine and authentic. I understood the realities of what professional hockey players and coaches endure and must sacrifice to keep doing what they love the most in life. The intimate scenes were very believable as well. There were moments when I was like no way, they’re doing that in that specific location.
This book is for you if you like:
Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love, Hockey Romance, He Falls First, Flirty Banter, Med-High Spice, Dual POV, Built-up Desire, and Work Colleagues.
Love Always, Catherine
Astrid is the daughter of an NHL coach. She is left at the altar by an NHL player. Years later, she has a one-night stand with a man named Cal. It turns out that Cal is her ex-fiancés new goalie coach. Astrid is determined to avoid her attraction to Cal as they work for her father’s team.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed the playful yet comical bond between Cal and Astrid. Their temptation and desire are spicy. It gives off the whole I want what I cannot have vibes. I adored how Cal shows his interest in Astrid by paying attention to the little and significant parts of her life. He’s the perfect book boyfriend.
Cal is portrayed as loyal and understanding. I liked that he stands up for his beliefs and doesn’t tolerate disrespect to women. I also liked that Cal found a way to keep doing what he loves but with some accommodations to suit his new reality.
I liked Astrid’s strength and vulnerability. Her story felt relatable in the sense that one’s emotional trauma can follow them after heartbreak. It takes a lot of strength and finding oneself to allow someone new into one’s heart again after being scorned by the one person you thought was forever.
The side characters were funny and exciting. My favorite was Cal’s friend, with whom he shares his accident. Oh, and Astrid’s neighbor was historical. The friendships between Astrid and Cal were vital to their story. I liked how they all contributed to Cal and Astrid's realization of what they meant to one another.
Avery Flynn did an excellent job keeping the story genuine and authentic. I understood the realities of what professional hockey players and coaches endure and must sacrifice to keep doing what they love the most in life. The intimate scenes were very believable as well. There were moments when I was like no way, they’re doing that in that specific location.
This book is for you if you like:
Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love, Hockey Romance, He Falls First, Flirty Banter, Med-High Spice, Dual POV, Built-up Desire, and Work Colleagues.
Love Always, Catherine
March 18, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Astrid is a professional hockey coach’s daughter who was left at the alter by her long time love, who also happens to be a hockey goalie. After her disaster almost wedding, Astrid has sworn off all things hockey, especially hockey players. That is until Cal shows up at Flying Sow Pub and sparks fly. Little do they know that first night, Cal is her dad’s new goalie coach and Astrid is heading back to the world of hockey to help her dad.
This was a super cute, kind of insta-lovey, hockey rom-com. I really enjoyed Astrid and Cal’s story. Their story kept me entertained and their banter kept me laughing. Cal’s love language is definitely gift giving, shown by all the little gifts he left for Astrid while she was actively trying to avoid acknowledging her feelings for him. I do think the ending felt kind of rushed and a little unfinished, but overall I really enjoyed this book.
This book is the second in The Downsides of Dating series, but can definitely be read as a standalone. I say that as someone that hasn’t read book one. If you’re looking for a cute and spicy hockey rom-com then you’ll enjoy Walk of Shame.
ARC provided by Netglally and Valentine PR in exchange for my honest review.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Astrid is a professional hockey coach’s daughter who was left at the alter by her long time love, who also happens to be a hockey goalie. After her disaster almost wedding, Astrid has sworn off all things hockey, especially hockey players. That is until Cal shows up at Flying Sow Pub and sparks fly. Little do they know that first night, Cal is her dad’s new goalie coach and Astrid is heading back to the world of hockey to help her dad.
This was a super cute, kind of insta-lovey, hockey rom-com. I really enjoyed Astrid and Cal’s story. Their story kept me entertained and their banter kept me laughing. Cal’s love language is definitely gift giving, shown by all the little gifts he left for Astrid while she was actively trying to avoid acknowledging her feelings for him. I do think the ending felt kind of rushed and a little unfinished, but overall I really enjoyed this book.
This book is the second in The Downsides of Dating series, but can definitely be read as a standalone. I say that as someone that hasn’t read book one. If you’re looking for a cute and spicy hockey rom-com then you’ll enjoy Walk of Shame.
ARC provided by Netglally and Valentine PR in exchange for my honest review.
February 24, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Walk of Shame is the second book in the Downside to Dating series and much like many series romances it can be read as a stand alone. This is a story about a woman who has decided dating isn't for her. She likes men just fine, but only for a night and only for one thing, then she is off to enjoy her own life man free. She has been successful at that since the day she was left at the alter by her childhood sweetheart, that is until a hard man in a soft sweater came to her rescue at the bar one night and she just can't seem to figure out how to keep her panties on anytime he is near.
Astrid hates all things hockey since Tig dropped her the day of their wedding to run off to another city and play for another team. She is now is that city after her dad got a coaching job there. She might be there for family but she still wants nothing to do with hockey. Seems like fate has other plans for Astrid. First, she broke all her rules and had sex with Cal even after she learned he lived in her building, but it gets worse when she figures out he is the new hockey coach brought on to help her ex out of his slump and worse than that when her dad talks her into coming back to help out the team in his last season. Now she is trying to avoid Cal because he is like catnip and she just can't get enough.
Cal might not be able to play the game anymore but this is his shot to be a part of it. Trouble is he is so distracted by Astrid that he keeps forgetting why hooking up with the head coach's daughter is probably a bad idea. But there is just something about her and Cal is going to pull out all the stops to see if he can find a way to not only get into her panties but maybe even into her head and her heart. Which might be more difficult than he realized since she keeps dodging him.
I had so much fun with this story. Astrid is a bit on the broken side but after the wedding debacle who wouldn't be. I loved watching her grow and Cal figure out how to do some adorable things to soften her up. Who knew Diet Coke could win a girl's heart. Their story is pretty cute with just enough angst to really seal the deal. Once I got going I didn't want to stop listening to the story to see what it was going to take for these two to figure out they were more than just people who hook up.
The epilogue was a bit strange but worked overall and sets up the next couple solidly. If you have read some of the other series about the Ice Knights , Harbor City or the Hartigans then you are in for a treat as there are quite a few cameos from other books.
Narration:
Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood are gold in this. Both have all the angst and sexy in their voices and really sold the characters. I love that each of the main character had their own voice for the story, it made it flow great. Plus both of their performances were just candy to my ears. The sexy times were soooo hot, so pick your listening place accordingly, you have been warned. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Walk of Shame is the second book in the Downside to Dating series and much like many series romances it can be read as a stand alone. This is a story about a woman who has decided dating isn't for her. She likes men just fine, but only for a night and only for one thing, then she is off to enjoy her own life man free. She has been successful at that since the day she was left at the alter by her childhood sweetheart, that is until a hard man in a soft sweater came to her rescue at the bar one night and she just can't seem to figure out how to keep her panties on anytime he is near.
Astrid hates all things hockey since Tig dropped her the day of their wedding to run off to another city and play for another team. She is now is that city after her dad got a coaching job there. She might be there for family but she still wants nothing to do with hockey. Seems like fate has other plans for Astrid. First, she broke all her rules and had sex with Cal even after she learned he lived in her building, but it gets worse when she figures out he is the new hockey coach brought on to help her ex out of his slump and worse than that when her dad talks her into coming back to help out the team in his last season. Now she is trying to avoid Cal because he is like catnip and she just can't get enough.
Cal might not be able to play the game anymore but this is his shot to be a part of it. Trouble is he is so distracted by Astrid that he keeps forgetting why hooking up with the head coach's daughter is probably a bad idea. But there is just something about her and Cal is going to pull out all the stops to see if he can find a way to not only get into her panties but maybe even into her head and her heart. Which might be more difficult than he realized since she keeps dodging him.
I had so much fun with this story. Astrid is a bit on the broken side but after the wedding debacle who wouldn't be. I loved watching her grow and Cal figure out how to do some adorable things to soften her up. Who knew Diet Coke could win a girl's heart. Their story is pretty cute with just enough angst to really seal the deal. Once I got going I didn't want to stop listening to the story to see what it was going to take for these two to figure out they were more than just people who hook up.
The epilogue was a bit strange but worked overall and sets up the next couple solidly. If you have read some of the other series about the Ice Knights , Harbor City or the Hartigans then you are in for a treat as there are quite a few cameos from other books.
Narration:
Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood are gold in this. Both have all the angst and sexy in their voices and really sold the characters. I love that each of the main character had their own voice for the story, it made it flow great. Plus both of their performances were just candy to my ears. The sexy times were soooo hot, so pick your listening place accordingly, you have been warned. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
March 11, 2024
This story started off really strong and interesting. Astrid made it her mission not to fall in love again after being jilted on her wedding day. Then handsome Cal walks into the bar. After, a brief sexual relationship they fell in love. That was pretty much the story. The couple was sadly a bit boring for me. Though the sexy scenes were great. Oh and the epilogue was hmm, nope. Very strange. Overall, it was an okay love story. If you are a fan of the authors you will enjoy it. A huge thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
March 6, 2024
When it comes to sports romances, I am actually very picky. But I have to admit, the story captivated me, and I am so happy that I had the chance to read it.
When Astrid's boyfriend dumps her on their wedding day, her heart breaks. From that moment, she decides that she doesn't want to have anything to do with hockey. Five years later, she is helping a friend working in a pub, when the most handsome man she has ever seen arrives at the bar. Their attraction is instant, the sparks are flying, tension is sizzling... After the hurt she felt from her ex, she comes with her own set of rules. Those rules are immediately broken when she has the hottest one-night stand in her life. What happens when it turns out that the guy she slept with lives in her building? Most importantly, he is the new goalie whisperer on his father's team. What does a girl have to do except to keep breaking her own rules...
I was really surprised how much I loved Astrid and Cal's story. All the boundaries they put in place were total waste. Every single time they were in each other's presents they couldn't stop starting their night all over again. This was more than welcome for my romantic soul. I could see Astrid's walls crumbling bit by bit, because she was so madly attracted to Cal. He, on the other hand, couldn't stop thinking about her and continued seducing her. I had so much fun with them. Especially when we had Cal courting her differently with the diet coke, which was Astrid's favorite.
The love scenes... OMG... The love scenes. They were insanely hot and steamy. For me, it's never too much smut. Astrid and Cal being together was just the perfect steam 🥵🥵🥵.
🎧 I have to say that it's very rarely for me to listen to a book on audio. But this one, this one was 100% worth it. The narrator's voices were just so damn good. Savannah Peachwood's voice perfectly suited Astrid as the main heroine... Robert Hatchet's voice was so, so sexy. I couldn't stop listening to them. This is probably the reason I finished the book in 2 days.
One thing is certain... I loved Astrid and Cal's story and will definitely buy the paperback version.
***Special thanks to NetGalley and RB media for providing me with this audiocopy. My review is given voluntarily.***
When Astrid's boyfriend dumps her on their wedding day, her heart breaks. From that moment, she decides that she doesn't want to have anything to do with hockey. Five years later, she is helping a friend working in a pub, when the most handsome man she has ever seen arrives at the bar. Their attraction is instant, the sparks are flying, tension is sizzling... After the hurt she felt from her ex, she comes with her own set of rules. Those rules are immediately broken when she has the hottest one-night stand in her life. What happens when it turns out that the guy she slept with lives in her building? Most importantly, he is the new goalie whisperer on his father's team. What does a girl have to do except to keep breaking her own rules...
I was really surprised how much I loved Astrid and Cal's story. All the boundaries they put in place were total waste. Every single time they were in each other's presents they couldn't stop starting their night all over again. This was more than welcome for my romantic soul. I could see Astrid's walls crumbling bit by bit, because she was so madly attracted to Cal. He, on the other hand, couldn't stop thinking about her and continued seducing her. I had so much fun with them. Especially when we had Cal courting her differently with the diet coke, which was Astrid's favorite.
The love scenes... OMG... The love scenes. They were insanely hot and steamy. For me, it's never too much smut. Astrid and Cal being together was just the perfect steam 🥵🥵🥵.
🎧 I have to say that it's very rarely for me to listen to a book on audio. But this one, this one was 100% worth it. The narrator's voices were just so damn good. Savannah Peachwood's voice perfectly suited Astrid as the main heroine... Robert Hatchet's voice was so, so sexy. I couldn't stop listening to them. This is probably the reason I finished the book in 2 days.
One thing is certain... I loved Astrid and Cal's story and will definitely buy the paperback version.
***Special thanks to NetGalley and RB media for providing me with this audiocopy. My review is given voluntarily.***
March 10, 2024
**Thank you to NetGalley, the author, & the publisher for a chance to read to & review an ARC of this book!**
Please find my extended feedback below...along with some spoilers (beware).
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Things I Liked:
-I loved the friendship between Astrid, Thea, & Nola in this novel (although I am curious how the whole Nola marrying Tigs thing came about in the epilogue...that feels like a major friend code violation).
-The spicy scenes were well done!
-I loved the grump neighbor that ended up being related to one of Astrid's friends & the guidance that she offered Astrid.
Things That Didn't Sit Quite Right With Me:
-I just am not a fan of instalove.
-I really disliked Astrid's dad for even asking her to come back to coach beside him...knowing that it would hurt her...
-The book dragged for me (I felt that it could have been shorter)...but the ending felt very quick & like it was all done just to wrap everything up in a nice bow (it didn't feel very realistic to me).
-The epilogue feels a bit cringy with Tigs marrying Nola. I am interested to see how that played out if they are the focus of the next book.
Overall, I gave it 3 stars.
Please find my extended feedback below...along with some spoilers (beware).
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Things I Liked:
-I loved the friendship between Astrid, Thea, & Nola in this novel (although I am curious how the whole Nola marrying Tigs thing came about in the epilogue...that feels like a major friend code violation).
-The spicy scenes were well done!
-I loved the grump neighbor that ended up being related to one of Astrid's friends & the guidance that she offered Astrid.
Things That Didn't Sit Quite Right With Me:
-I just am not a fan of instalove.
-I really disliked Astrid's dad for even asking her to come back to coach beside him...knowing that it would hurt her...
-The book dragged for me (I felt that it could have been shorter)...but the ending felt very quick & like it was all done just to wrap everything up in a nice bow (it didn't feel very realistic to me).
-The epilogue feels a bit cringy with Tigs marrying Nola. I am interested to see how that played out if they are the focus of the next book.
Overall, I gave it 3 stars.
February 17, 2024
Quick Summary: A super cute, hot and bothered, sports romance
My Review: Walk of Shame by Avery Flynn is associated with Downside of Dating series. It is book two.
About the Book: Astrid O'Malley has a love-hate relationship with hockey. On the one hand, it connects her with her beloved father. On the other hand, it reminds her of the selfish man-child who left her at the altar. Because of the grief and shame she has had to endure, she has chosen to exist with a love 'em and leave 'em lifestyle. When she has a one night stand to remember with a stranger, she soon finds herself back in her old haunts.
About the Narration: Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood did a great job as narrators. They had a nice flow, which made the listening experience easy to follow. They certainly brought the characters to life in a memorable way.
My Final Say: This fast paced romance was really funny. It was so entertaining. It checked all the boxes for the one night to forever storyline. Both leads had a lot to work through as individuals. Together, they were explosive.
Other: Readers who enjoy naughty and nice reads with a hockey theme should like this novel.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Status/Level: 🌶🍬
Narration: 👍
Thanks to the author, to the publisher (RB Media, Recorded Books), and to NetGalley for granting access to an audio ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own. I am appreciative for the opportunity.
My Review: Walk of Shame by Avery Flynn is associated with Downside of Dating series. It is book two.
About the Book: Astrid O'Malley has a love-hate relationship with hockey. On the one hand, it connects her with her beloved father. On the other hand, it reminds her of the selfish man-child who left her at the altar. Because of the grief and shame she has had to endure, she has chosen to exist with a love 'em and leave 'em lifestyle. When she has a one night stand to remember with a stranger, she soon finds herself back in her old haunts.
About the Narration: Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood did a great job as narrators. They had a nice flow, which made the listening experience easy to follow. They certainly brought the characters to life in a memorable way.
My Final Say: This fast paced romance was really funny. It was so entertaining. It checked all the boxes for the one night to forever storyline. Both leads had a lot to work through as individuals. Together, they were explosive.
Other: Readers who enjoy naughty and nice reads with a hockey theme should like this novel.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Status/Level: 🌶🍬
Narration: 👍
Thanks to the author, to the publisher (RB Media, Recorded Books), and to NetGalley for granting access to an audio ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own. I am appreciative for the opportunity.
March 11, 2024
This book had me smiling. All the banter and tension between Astrid and Cal was *chefs kiss*. All the side characters are great. I enjoyed this one more than the first just because of that. We get to see a lot more positive relationships for the two MCs than we did in the first. I wish we got a little bit more scenes with some of them, especially Cal’s family and Astrid’s dad.
I loved Astrid. She was headstrong and independent. Cal was the best. I love a book boyfriend who pays attention and is nothing but supportive.
Not going to lie, the epilogue kind of threw me lol but I loved that Astrid was able to have closure with Tig and that they were able to have a good platonic relationship after everything.
Thank you so much for the ARC! I really enjoyed it :)
I loved Astrid. She was headstrong and independent. Cal was the best. I love a book boyfriend who pays attention and is nothing but supportive.
Not going to lie, the epilogue kind of threw me lol but I loved that Astrid was able to have closure with Tig and that they were able to have a good platonic relationship after everything.
Thank you so much for the ARC! I really enjoyed it :)
March 20, 2024
Thank you to Entangled and Recorded Books for gifting me review copies of this book. This whole series is hysterical and very steamy—I’m here for it. The first book in The Downside of Dating series, Anger Bang, featured an over-the-top wedding that was being filmed for a reality TV series and a falling out between sisters that resulted in the main character getting her revenge and satisfaction (if you know what I mean).
In this installment, our heroine Astrid O’Malley was dumped...via FaceTime...minutes before they were due to get married. To make matters worse, her hockey goalie ex-fiance was also coached by her dad. She’s moved on as best as she could though, and these days zero commitment is the name of the game. So when she meets the hot tree of a man that is Cal Matsen she’s all in...but only for one night. There’s just one problem...ok, maybe two. It turns out that Cal lives in the apartment above her, and he’s just joined her dad’s hockey team as a specialist coach.
I loved a lot of things in this book, but especially the trash-talking. 😆 Both of the main characters come off as tough but deep down have a lot of insecurities. They were a good match for each other.
This book definitely starts with a bang too, and there is a lot of chemistry between them, even if they lack a super strong emotional connection.
The audiobook was narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Robert Hatchet, who were both new-to-me performers. The audio comes in at 8 hours and 45 minutes and is very bingeable.
In this installment, our heroine Astrid O’Malley was dumped...via FaceTime...minutes before they were due to get married. To make matters worse, her hockey goalie ex-fiance was also coached by her dad. She’s moved on as best as she could though, and these days zero commitment is the name of the game. So when she meets the hot tree of a man that is Cal Matsen she’s all in...but only for one night. There’s just one problem...ok, maybe two. It turns out that Cal lives in the apartment above her, and he’s just joined her dad’s hockey team as a specialist coach.
I loved a lot of things in this book, but especially the trash-talking. 😆 Both of the main characters come off as tough but deep down have a lot of insecurities. They were a good match for each other.
This book definitely starts with a bang too, and there is a lot of chemistry between them, even if they lack a super strong emotional connection.
The audiobook was narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Robert Hatchet, who were both new-to-me performers. The audio comes in at 8 hours and 45 minutes and is very bingeable.
dnf
August 25, 2024Had to DNF @ 10% - the book begins with a prologue five years ago, with the FMC getting dumped on the day of her wedding by her idiot fiancé. Who calls her to say that he had to take an offer from another team and had to leave that day. And her father, the coach of the team, didn’t know this because he tells her he can’t find her fiancé? Excuse me but there’s a thing called contracts, no way this is plausible. Add to that they were getting married in a big ceremony during hockey season? A woman who was raised knowing hockey, even working with her father? I’m a hockey fan, so all of this made no sense and took me right out of the story. As the story began to set up the present conflict, I can see that it’s going to get even more implausible and ridiculous. I was surprised at how bad a setup this was, so I just had to tap out.
March 6, 2024
***audiobook review***
Overall story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Audiobook performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤
Steam
Witty
Coach’s’ daughter
Hockey
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m totally a sucker for a light hearted feel good romcom. Slap some hunky athletes in there and I’m done for! Avery Flynn is a new to me author and I found her writing style to be witty with so much voice. I will definitely be checking out her other titles.
Story overview:
Astrid finds herself jilted on her wedding day by her childhood best friend turned hockey star. The media fallout is brutal and she swears off anything to do with hockey for the rest of her life. Until her hockey coach dad turns to her for help.
Astrid meets Cal at the neighborhood bar and he invites her back to his newly established bachelor den. Both have firm rules for hookups, but find they have more in common than just their rules.
Audio:
Savannah Peachwood and Robert Hatchet were great as Astrid and Cal. Robert has a smooth sporty voice that sucked me into Cals character. Savannah was fire with her performance.
Special thanks to Recorded Books Publishing and Netgalley for providing this book in exchange for a review.
Overall story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Audiobook performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤
Steam
Witty
Coach’s’ daughter
Hockey
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m totally a sucker for a light hearted feel good romcom. Slap some hunky athletes in there and I’m done for! Avery Flynn is a new to me author and I found her writing style to be witty with so much voice. I will definitely be checking out her other titles.
Story overview:
Astrid finds herself jilted on her wedding day by her childhood best friend turned hockey star. The media fallout is brutal and she swears off anything to do with hockey for the rest of her life. Until her hockey coach dad turns to her for help.
Astrid meets Cal at the neighborhood bar and he invites her back to his newly established bachelor den. Both have firm rules for hookups, but find they have more in common than just their rules.
Audio:
Savannah Peachwood and Robert Hatchet were great as Astrid and Cal. Robert has a smooth sporty voice that sucked me into Cals character. Savannah was fire with her performance.
Special thanks to Recorded Books Publishing and Netgalley for providing this book in exchange for a review.
March 19, 2024
Walk Of Shame By Avery Flynn always walks the line of laugh out loud kind of funny and heartaching feels I never know what I am going to get in the next page. And that kept me completely absorbed into this story. Avery Flynn has a whip-smart writing style and she keeps on delivering these amazing rom coms full of feels. Astrid and Cal made me laugh like crazy. They also made me chew my nails in suspense because I couldn't guess will they or won't they. They made me rub my chest when the heartbreak hit. The secondary characters list is pretty legendary here as so many of my old favorites make an appearance here.
Astrid has sworn off hockey after being left at alter by Tig Jones..who is now the goalie of The Ice Knights and who plays under her dad. But her dad is retiring from coaching next year and he pleads her to return as his Assistant. Things get complicated when she comes face to face with the new goalie coach of Ice Knights. Cal is the man she slept with just few nights ago, is her building mate, is off limits and is also not ready to play by the rules. Though he knows it is his last chance to stay connected with hockey in some way after the life threatening injury ended his career.
Cal and Astrid both were burnt for different reasons. Astrid was a hockey girl as she grew up in the sports with her father and she used to assist him and then all the scandal and heartbreak forced her to stay away from it. In Cal's case, it was the injury. They were both not ready to commit, to fall in love, to risk their hearts. But as soon as they had that one sinful night, things started to change. There were lot of resistance. More from Astrid. Because it was a freaking tricky situation. Working closely with her ex who actually used to be her best friend and who is trying to say he is sorry..working closely with her ex AND Cal and her father and trying not to give into the temptations and making things more messy. I have to say Cal was pretty persistent. I am a sucker for damaged but perfect heroes and Cal is exactly that. I won't say he has emotional baggage. He has a pretty awesome supportive family but he misses hockey. He is instantly obsessed with Astrid. Everything about her amazes him. Her beauty, her smartness, her talent, her stubbornness, her big heart...everything. She still has scars from that jilted bride scandal and she is cautious. But Cal is just so charming and sexy and with the right amount of c0cky alpha sides specially under the sheets. She realises that she has been avoiding love and she never faced her insecurities all these years. She is so afraid to get hurt that she keeps everyone at distance but Cal calmed her fears. It was still complicated. And the slow burn was killing me in every page. And I loved that tension! The chemistry was nuclear hot. The intimate scenes were so deliciously dirty and super hot! Cal finally realised that hockey isn't more important than Astrid and Astrid opened her heart for this beautifully complex man. Argh their banter, their text messages, the push and pull...this story was just making my heart so happy.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily from Netgalley and Entangled Publishing
Astrid has sworn off hockey after being left at alter by Tig Jones..who is now the goalie of The Ice Knights and who plays under her dad. But her dad is retiring from coaching next year and he pleads her to return as his Assistant. Things get complicated when she comes face to face with the new goalie coach of Ice Knights. Cal is the man she slept with just few nights ago, is her building mate, is off limits and is also not ready to play by the rules. Though he knows it is his last chance to stay connected with hockey in some way after the life threatening injury ended his career.
Cal and Astrid both were burnt for different reasons. Astrid was a hockey girl as she grew up in the sports with her father and she used to assist him and then all the scandal and heartbreak forced her to stay away from it. In Cal's case, it was the injury. They were both not ready to commit, to fall in love, to risk their hearts. But as soon as they had that one sinful night, things started to change. There were lot of resistance. More from Astrid. Because it was a freaking tricky situation. Working closely with her ex who actually used to be her best friend and who is trying to say he is sorry..working closely with her ex AND Cal and her father and trying not to give into the temptations and making things more messy. I have to say Cal was pretty persistent. I am a sucker for damaged but perfect heroes and Cal is exactly that. I won't say he has emotional baggage. He has a pretty awesome supportive family but he misses hockey. He is instantly obsessed with Astrid. Everything about her amazes him. Her beauty, her smartness, her talent, her stubbornness, her big heart...everything. She still has scars from that jilted bride scandal and she is cautious. But Cal is just so charming and sexy and with the right amount of c0cky alpha sides specially under the sheets. She realises that she has been avoiding love and she never faced her insecurities all these years. She is so afraid to get hurt that she keeps everyone at distance but Cal calmed her fears. It was still complicated. And the slow burn was killing me in every page. And I loved that tension! The chemistry was nuclear hot. The intimate scenes were so deliciously dirty and super hot! Cal finally realised that hockey isn't more important than Astrid and Astrid opened her heart for this beautifully complex man. Argh their banter, their text messages, the push and pull...this story was just making my heart so happy.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily from Netgalley and Entangled Publishing
February 16, 2024
Thank you RB Media and NetGalley for the ARC.
4 stars
I listened to this book and the narrators were fantastic. I really enjoyed the plot and the humor. It had me laughing out loud a few times at the one liners the FMC would deliver. The FMC was super sassy and quite witty. She was really fun to read about. Her sometimes show of vulnerability was also refreshing. The MMC was a rescue the damsel in distress type. I did enjoy his chapters also. There were a lot of hockey references which I didn’t mind at all. I like hockey and know somewhat about it but I didn’t feel like this went super technical. The spice was very well written and it happened immediately. I do wish there was a little more tension build up between the FMC and MMC. It was a bit rushed and didn’t really feel like there was getting to know each other. To be fair it was a one night stand type of story. I just felt like they kept repeating they couldn’t be together and would do it anyway. I would have prefer a little more tension and build up. Maybe one or two times they met and almost did it. If that was the case I would have given it 5 stars. There was also a lot of book trope mentions and pop culture references which were really cool. Overall I really enjoyed the story and would read the author again.
4 stars
I listened to this book and the narrators were fantastic. I really enjoyed the plot and the humor. It had me laughing out loud a few times at the one liners the FMC would deliver. The FMC was super sassy and quite witty. She was really fun to read about. Her sometimes show of vulnerability was also refreshing. The MMC was a rescue the damsel in distress type. I did enjoy his chapters also. There were a lot of hockey references which I didn’t mind at all. I like hockey and know somewhat about it but I didn’t feel like this went super technical. The spice was very well written and it happened immediately. I do wish there was a little more tension build up between the FMC and MMC. It was a bit rushed and didn’t really feel like there was getting to know each other. To be fair it was a one night stand type of story. I just felt like they kept repeating they couldn’t be together and would do it anyway. I would have prefer a little more tension and build up. Maybe one or two times they met and almost did it. If that was the case I would have given it 5 stars. There was also a lot of book trope mentions and pop culture references which were really cool. Overall I really enjoyed the story and would read the author again.
March 10, 2024
(audiobook) There wasn’t much of a story–they meet, they have what’s supposed to be a one night stand, but they end up working together, they seduce each other, one tiny setback then happily ever after. The characters and their struggles were interesting though, and it was a lot of fun, and a lot of sexy.
After being left at the altar, Astrid writes off serious relationships and hockey at the same time. Cal is supposed to be one more notch on her bedpost, except the man lives in her building, and he works for the hockey team her father coaches. Where her dad asks her to come back to work. With the groom that never was. Too many complications for someone who’s trying to figure out her life.
Cal isn’t that more stable. He’s just lost the one thing that was most important in his life: his career as a hockey player, after a serious injury. This job as a coach is his one chance at staying relevant. But what happens when he realizes there are things more important than hockey?
Their relationship is what helps them heal, help them going forward. They support each other right from the start, which was nice, since they barely know each other. But there’s an instant connection between them. They also have great interactions with other characters–their family, their friends, their co-workers, even their so called enemies. The book works a lot on conversations and interactions. That’s where you find the funny, and the deep feelings too.
As for the level of steam, it’s pretty high. Astrid and Cal start with a bang, and they never let go. There definitely is a lot of attraction between them.
I’d have liked to have a more developped plot, but it works as it is. There are still some interesting themes like relationships with family members. And great side characters.
And the narration is perfect. The female narrator expresses all nuances of Astrid–her strengths and her softer side–and the male narrator’s voice matches with older Cal. They both give life to their character, and they sound good in the duet style texting chapters. Spot on on the funny and the sexy.
Quickie
- Series: Downside of dating #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #hockey romance #workplace romance #age gap
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Astrid O’Malley & Cal Madsen
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + how Cal seduces Astrid
- – such a thin plot
After being left at the altar, Astrid writes off serious relationships and hockey at the same time. Cal is supposed to be one more notch on her bedpost, except the man lives in her building, and he works for the hockey team her father coaches. Where her dad asks her to come back to work. With the groom that never was. Too many complications for someone who’s trying to figure out her life.
Cal isn’t that more stable. He’s just lost the one thing that was most important in his life: his career as a hockey player, after a serious injury. This job as a coach is his one chance at staying relevant. But what happens when he realizes there are things more important than hockey?
Their relationship is what helps them heal, help them going forward. They support each other right from the start, which was nice, since they barely know each other. But there’s an instant connection between them. They also have great interactions with other characters–their family, their friends, their co-workers, even their so called enemies. The book works a lot on conversations and interactions. That’s where you find the funny, and the deep feelings too.
As for the level of steam, it’s pretty high. Astrid and Cal start with a bang, and they never let go. There definitely is a lot of attraction between them.
I’d have liked to have a more developped plot, but it works as it is. There are still some interesting themes like relationships with family members. And great side characters.
And the narration is perfect. The female narrator expresses all nuances of Astrid–her strengths and her softer side–and the male narrator’s voice matches with older Cal. They both give life to their character, and they sound good in the duet style texting chapters. Spot on on the funny and the sexy.
Quickie
- Series: Downside of dating #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #hockey romance #workplace romance #age gap
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Astrid O’Malley & Cal Madsen
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + how Cal seduces Astrid
- – such a thin plot
February 29, 2024
The epilogue is a lie. They are breaking up in a year. Tops.
This one was an arc.
Look, I'm gonna go first with the good:
This was fun, especially the first part. It was super entertaining and very addictive. This is my first part listening to a professional audiobook and let me tell you it was an experience. I couldn't stop making faces at everything these guys read. Ugh, I was so embarrassed. I liked both the MCs for a while and felt their chemistry. They had a great connection. The sex scenes were also good, though a bit repetitive. I like the male narrator. It had great pace and I ignored the other books I was reading to squeeze in as many chapters of this as I could, every time I was free.
The bad parts were also quite a lot:
Yesterday, I said to myself there was no way I was gonna give this less than 3 stars. Come now and see me eat my words. The whole end was not good. Also, it was so long! Please don't bring the 3rd act conflict so soon. Also, make a better conflict: this was not only really predictable, but it made no sense. They were creating problems for themselves, especially her. Tick or Tix, whatever her ex's name was, was extremely boring and the epilogue... No, why are you so close friends with this guy? Trash ass kid. I didn't buy their "I love you" moment because their relationship wasn't developed. They went on one date. They slept (literally) one time next to each other. They shared very little about themselves and their confession is all about what they want in their future cause they really have nothing in the present. I felt they were fuck buddies and that was it. There was no emotional connection. I didn't like the female narrator: every time she did Cal's voice I wanted to die of cringe so very hard! Otherwise, she was good. Also, I kinda gave up at the 81% mark and started to listen to it at 2x and I ended up listening at 2,5x and skipping A LOT.
Last but not least, I NEVER want to hear these phrases again:
- Fucking A
- Pillowy tits
- Juicy ass
This one was an arc.
Look, I'm gonna go first with the good:
This was fun, especially the first part. It was super entertaining and very addictive. This is my first part listening to a professional audiobook and let me tell you it was an experience. I couldn't stop making faces at everything these guys read. Ugh, I was so embarrassed. I liked both the MCs for a while and felt their chemistry. They had a great connection. The sex scenes were also good, though a bit repetitive. I like the male narrator. It had great pace and I ignored the other books I was reading to squeeze in as many chapters of this as I could, every time I was free.
The bad parts were also quite a lot:
Yesterday, I said to myself there was no way I was gonna give this less than 3 stars. Come now and see me eat my words. The whole end was not good. Also, it was so long! Please don't bring the 3rd act conflict so soon. Also, make a better conflict: this was not only really predictable, but it made no sense. They were creating problems for themselves, especially her. Tick or Tix, whatever her ex's name was, was extremely boring and the epilogue... No, why are you so close friends with this guy? Trash ass kid. I didn't buy their "I love you" moment because their relationship wasn't developed. They went on one date. They slept (literally) one time next to each other. They shared very little about themselves and their confession is all about what they want in their future cause they really have nothing in the present. I felt they were fuck buddies and that was it. There was no emotional connection. I didn't like the female narrator: every time she did Cal's voice I wanted to die of cringe so very hard! Otherwise, she was good. Also, I kinda gave up at the 81% mark and started to listen to it at 2x and I ended up listening at 2,5x and skipping A LOT.
Last but not least, I NEVER want to hear these phrases again:
- Fucking A
- Pillowy tits
- Juicy ass
March 28, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book, provided by Valentine PR, Entangled and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a fun romp! Cal is totally book boyfriend material, and Astrid is the perfect blend of sweet and jaded. Makes for great banter! I am a huge fan of banter, and Avery always delivers!
Astrid is the Ice Knight's coach's daughter, who was previously engaged to the Ice Knight's goalie. But he's got the yips and Astrid's father thinks that Astrid might be the key to helping fix her ex-fiancé. Also called in is former goalie Cal, who had a horrific accident and is no longer able to play. Throw all this into a blender, and what do you get? The cutest on-going theme of Diet Coke gifts and "we're never doing this again sex" between Cal and Astrid. It's secret at first, or so they think, but it soon becomes too difficult to hide their feeling for one another. But when Astrid's ex-fiancé comes calling, what will she do?
This story was such a great story. We got all the steam, all the heart, all the feels and HOCKEY! Hockey's my favorite :) I'm a huge fan of Avery, and I know I can count on her to write relatable character who I'd want to hang out with in real life.
What a fun romp! Cal is totally book boyfriend material, and Astrid is the perfect blend of sweet and jaded. Makes for great banter! I am a huge fan of banter, and Avery always delivers!
Astrid is the Ice Knight's coach's daughter, who was previously engaged to the Ice Knight's goalie. But he's got the yips and Astrid's father thinks that Astrid might be the key to helping fix her ex-fiancé. Also called in is former goalie Cal, who had a horrific accident and is no longer able to play. Throw all this into a blender, and what do you get? The cutest on-going theme of Diet Coke gifts and "we're never doing this again sex" between Cal and Astrid. It's secret at first, or so they think, but it soon becomes too difficult to hide their feeling for one another. But when Astrid's ex-fiancé comes calling, what will she do?
This story was such a great story. We got all the steam, all the heart, all the feels and HOCKEY! Hockey's my favorite :) I'm a huge fan of Avery, and I know I can count on her to write relatable character who I'd want to hang out with in real life.
February 27, 2024
Fun and steamy contemporary romance. This is a stand alone sequel to Anger Bang (June 2023) which I gave five stars. It is the second in the Downside of Dating series. Thea, the lead from Bang makes appearances and is the best friend of Shame’s lead Astrid. The story begins with Astrid O’Malley being stood up on her wedding day by her hometown hockey goalie boyfriend. That day she quit her job and anything else to do with hockey. Jump forward five years and she has traveled, started her own business and works occasionally at her friends family pub. She has what she thinks will be a one night stand with Cal, a guy who stands up for her at the bar. But it turns out he breaks all of her rules.
Astrid’s dad asks her to come back and help with the hockey team as this is his last year coaching. Her assignment is to help with her old boyfriend who is back and in a slump. To compound the issue her latest hookup is a goalie whisper brought in to help her ex as well. I love that the story is told from both Astrid and Cal’s POVs. I laughed at Astrid complaining to her elderly neighbor that she can’t spend time with Cal without her panties coming off. There is humor, sweetness, good family and friends. Instead of a grand gesture there are thoughtful gifts given with a can of Diet Coke. Be still my heart. And the steamy factor is Tessa Bailey high. I received a digital ARC of the book and a copy of the audio book and alternated between the two. I can easily recommend either depending on your preference. The epilogue was more of a set up for the next book in the series and I will be anxiously waiting to read it. (4.5 Stars)
Astrid’s dad asks her to come back and help with the hockey team as this is his last year coaching. Her assignment is to help with her old boyfriend who is back and in a slump. To compound the issue her latest hookup is a goalie whisper brought in to help her ex as well. I love that the story is told from both Astrid and Cal’s POVs. I laughed at Astrid complaining to her elderly neighbor that she can’t spend time with Cal without her panties coming off. There is humor, sweetness, good family and friends. Instead of a grand gesture there are thoughtful gifts given with a can of Diet Coke. Be still my heart. And the steamy factor is Tessa Bailey high. I received a digital ARC of the book and a copy of the audio book and alternated between the two. I can easily recommend either depending on your preference. The epilogue was more of a set up for the next book in the series and I will be anxiously waiting to read it. (4.5 Stars)
February 15, 2024
A fantastic one night stand turned forced proximity workplace romance that sees the daughter of a pro Hockey coach roped into helping her ex fiance goalie get over his performance problems.
Astrid did not imagine doing her dad a favor would result in an unexpected reunion with her hot one night stand, Cal, who also happens to be working to help her ex and lives in the apartment above hers. Full of exceptional banter, sexual tension and emotional depth, I really loved this latest steamy, dual POV, hockey romance from a fav indie author.
Part of the Downside to dating series, this takes place in the same world as Anger bang but can definitely be read as a standalone. It was also great on audio narrated by Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood and highly recommended for fans of authors like Meghan Quinn!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review! I had been eagerly anticipating this one and it did NOT disappoint!
Steam level: open door
Astrid did not imagine doing her dad a favor would result in an unexpected reunion with her hot one night stand, Cal, who also happens to be working to help her ex and lives in the apartment above hers. Full of exceptional banter, sexual tension and emotional depth, I really loved this latest steamy, dual POV, hockey romance from a fav indie author.
Part of the Downside to dating series, this takes place in the same world as Anger bang but can definitely be read as a standalone. It was also great on audio narrated by Robert Hatchet and Savannah Peachwood and highly recommended for fans of authors like Meghan Quinn!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review! I had been eagerly anticipating this one and it did NOT disappoint!
Steam level: open door
March 18, 2024
First and foremost it needs to be stated somewhere that this a hockey romance. This does not dissuade me one bit, but being as the cover appears to be a drunk Barbie there was no indication of this fact.
Astrid is the only child of a hockey coach and former fiancé to a goalie. Left at the alter for a new team, she has had enough of hockey and its players to last her a lifetime. Who can blame her honestly, being in a relationship with someone so emotionally underdeveloped that he didn’t realize bailing on their wedding meant the relationship was over would cause anyone some trauma. After finally rebuilding her life in a now town, she is finally feeling more like herself than an accessory to hockey.
That is until she meets Cal. The instant attraction is undeniable and it seems like the perfect one night stand until they meet again at dinner. At Astrid’s dad’s apartment. Who just happens to be Cal’s new boss. You guessed it, Cal is hockey guy. Not only a hockey guy, but a former goalie here to coach Astrid’s former fiance, Tig.
They try their best to keep their distance and their hands to themselves, but can they stop before disaster strikes? The answer is no. No they cannot. But can what was supposed to be a casual no strings hook up, walk of shame included, end up as something more?
Astrid is the only child of a hockey coach and former fiancé to a goalie. Left at the alter for a new team, she has had enough of hockey and its players to last her a lifetime. Who can blame her honestly, being in a relationship with someone so emotionally underdeveloped that he didn’t realize bailing on their wedding meant the relationship was over would cause anyone some trauma. After finally rebuilding her life in a now town, she is finally feeling more like herself than an accessory to hockey.
That is until she meets Cal. The instant attraction is undeniable and it seems like the perfect one night stand until they meet again at dinner. At Astrid’s dad’s apartment. Who just happens to be Cal’s new boss. You guessed it, Cal is hockey guy. Not only a hockey guy, but a former goalie here to coach Astrid’s former fiance, Tig.
They try their best to keep their distance and their hands to themselves, but can they stop before disaster strikes? The answer is no. No they cannot. But can what was supposed to be a casual no strings hook up, walk of shame included, end up as something more?
February 26, 2024
Walk of Shame
Downside of Dating, Book 2
I Picked Up This Book Because: Sounded good at the time.
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Netgalley
Dates Read: 2/23/24 - 2/25/24
Stars: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Robert Hatchet, Savannah Peachwood
The Characters:
Astrid O’Malley
Cal Matson
Tig (Astrid’s Ex), Astrid’s Dad, Nola and Thea (Astrid’s BFFs), Cal’s sisters
The Story:
I had forgotten how much I enjoy this author’s writing. I was a bit jarred going from my slow burn last read into this one-night stand, but I recovered quickly. I love the back and forth between Astrid and Cal. Even when they were just texting their chemistry was off the charts.
I need the next book in this series STAT cause I need many explanations about this epilogue.
Downside of Dating, Book 2
I Picked Up This Book Because: Sounded good at the time.
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Netgalley
Dates Read: 2/23/24 - 2/25/24
Stars: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Robert Hatchet, Savannah Peachwood
The Characters:
Astrid O’Malley
Cal Matson
Tig (Astrid’s Ex), Astrid’s Dad, Nola and Thea (Astrid’s BFFs), Cal’s sisters
The Story:
I had forgotten how much I enjoy this author’s writing. I was a bit jarred going from my slow burn last read into this one-night stand, but I recovered quickly. I love the back and forth between Astrid and Cal. Even when they were just texting their chemistry was off the charts.
I need the next book in this series STAT cause I need many explanations about this epilogue.
March 11, 2024
Walk Of Shame is a hot hockey romantic comedy, as you know I love a good hockey romance. Unfortunately, this one did not do it for me. Something was missing for me between the two main characters and the whole storyline.
It started off really well and I was invested, it's probably the only reason I continued it. But once the spice started I felt like the plot just got stagnant. Their relationship was very superficial, I didn't feel any growth.
I didn't feel the love between them or was truly rooting for them. I needed more yearning and angst to make me crave them together. I really wanted to love it more, but it fell flat for me.
🎧 The narration by Robert Hatchet & Savannah Peachwood was very enjoyable they made me stick through the story with their performance. They were funny and played their parts well.
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley & RB Media for my free ALC in exchange for an honest review.
It started off really well and I was invested, it's probably the only reason I continued it. But once the spice started I felt like the plot just got stagnant. Their relationship was very superficial, I didn't feel any growth.
I didn't feel the love between them or was truly rooting for them. I needed more yearning and angst to make me crave them together. I really wanted to love it more, but it fell flat for me.
🎧 The narration by Robert Hatchet & Savannah Peachwood was very enjoyable they made me stick through the story with their performance. They were funny and played their parts well.
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley & RB Media for my free ALC in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2024
I jumped right into Walk of Shame, my first book by Avery Flynn. There was a moment early on where I had to write notes of who was who and what was where, but once I got through the first few chapters it was very easy to follow. I do wish there had been a bit more plug for the previous book in the series, but the book focused heavily on Astrid and Cal. There was a lot of family members and side characters that felt like they probably have books too, but I kind of glazed over a lot of that.
The story here was good. It wasn't my favorite, but I liked the hockey angle and the forced proximity a lot. I liked how there was some time separating the jilted bride moment and this book starting, so Astrid had time to grow on her own before meeting Cal. I also liked how the spice came in hot and heavy early on, and then yo=yoed as emotions flared. I liked that whole situation.
The plot served, we had the growth of Astrid as she moved on from her relationship with Tig and navigated life in hockey again, we had Cal back in hockey as well figuring out what he wanted to do with his life, and we had the chemistry of the two of them exploding all over the page (and each other) that keep everything interesting. While I appreciate the book for what it was, it didn't grab me and make me want more. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Overall, I think Walk of Shame was well written with an engaging plot and copious, but loveable, characters. I think it will appeal to a wide audience and bring joy and laughter to many. Thank you so much for sharing with me and giving me the opportunity to review!
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
The story here was good. It wasn't my favorite, but I liked the hockey angle and the forced proximity a lot. I liked how there was some time separating the jilted bride moment and this book starting, so Astrid had time to grow on her own before meeting Cal. I also liked how the spice came in hot and heavy early on, and then yo=yoed as emotions flared. I liked that whole situation.
The plot served, we had the growth of Astrid as she moved on from her relationship with Tig and navigated life in hockey again, we had Cal back in hockey as well figuring out what he wanted to do with his life, and we had the chemistry of the two of them exploding all over the page (and each other) that keep everything interesting. While I appreciate the book for what it was, it didn't grab me and make me want more. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Overall, I think Walk of Shame was well written with an engaging plot and copious, but loveable, characters. I think it will appeal to a wide audience and bring joy and laughter to many. Thank you so much for sharing with me and giving me the opportunity to review!
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
February 27, 2024
Funny and cute- I really enjoyed this one! I love that they just couldn’t seem to stay away from each other no matter what. The unique characters in this one made it even more interesting too. The family aspect of it was also cute.
🌀Synopsis
Astrid O’Malley was dumped at the alter by her childhood sweetheart. From that day on there is no more hockey and no more relationships. She’s determined to live a life in a constant stream of one night stands and it works for her. That is, until she has a one night stand with the guy who lives above her.
Problem 1- he lives nearby and the sex was good. Almost irresistible.
Then her father decides to retire and asks her to come back and help the team. Which is where she sees him again, also helping the team.
Problem 2- she can’t date someone on the team and now she has to see him constantly.
It a series of run-ins for these two that make it so they just can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Once again, the choice will be between her and hockey.
🌀Synopsis
Astrid O’Malley was dumped at the alter by her childhood sweetheart. From that day on there is no more hockey and no more relationships. She’s determined to live a life in a constant stream of one night stands and it works for her. That is, until she has a one night stand with the guy who lives above her.
Problem 1- he lives nearby and the sex was good. Almost irresistible.
Then her father decides to retire and asks her to come back and help the team. Which is where she sees him again, also helping the team.
Problem 2- she can’t date someone on the team and now she has to see him constantly.
It a series of run-ins for these two that make it so they just can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Once again, the choice will be between her and hockey.
March 9, 2024
-I received an ALC from Valentine PR for an honest review-
I unfortunately had to DNF the book at 3hrs and 20 mins remaining. I was excited about this book since I love hockey romance and I love the narrators they chose. Unfortunately for me, the story just didn't grab me. I kept listening hoping the story would pick up, but for me it never did. I didn't particularly like the MMC or the MFC...their relationship and their banter just didn't click. I hate giving bad reviews, but for me it didn't work. As for the audiobook, the narrators did a fantastic job as I knew they would since they are fantastic! Up to you if you would like to venture into this book, it was just not my cup of tea.
I unfortunately had to DNF the book at 3hrs and 20 mins remaining. I was excited about this book since I love hockey romance and I love the narrators they chose. Unfortunately for me, the story just didn't grab me. I kept listening hoping the story would pick up, but for me it never did. I didn't particularly like the MMC or the MFC...their relationship and their banter just didn't click. I hate giving bad reviews, but for me it didn't work. As for the audiobook, the narrators did a fantastic job as I knew they would since they are fantastic! Up to you if you would like to venture into this book, it was just not my cup of tea.
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