Eliza McDavid is done with dating. Every man she meets does nothing for her. After years of abuse, she knows she wants safety—but most of all, she wants love. Each of her sisters has her own passion, and Eliza thinks she’s found hers when she decides to open her own coffee bar. But she doesn’t have a clue how to run one. She knows someone who does, however, but he won’t give her the time of day.
Until he does.
Coleson Katz’s reputation is worse than the sludge shoveled off the ice between periods of a hockey game. He has made some bad personal choices, so when it’s time for him to be called up to the NHL, no one wants to give him a chance. He’s told that the only way to fix his reputation is by finding a wife, but he wants to do anything other than that. Who would want to marry a hockey player who is known for sleeping around?
But then he’s reminded that Eliza wants to learn how to operate a coffee shop. He owns one of those, has been running it his whole life. He proposes a trade. His coffee shop in exchange for a year of her life in a fake marriage to him.
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.
Pucks and Coffee is the second book in Toni Aleo's 'Knoxville Bears' series, and I have to say, I enjoyed it much more than the first. Coleson and Eliza were fabulous together and there is nothing I love more than a good sunshiney character! Eliza kept a smile on my face throughout the book and every time Coleson called her wife I melted.
I love a good marriage of convince romance and of course, watching them fall for one another was the best part of this romance. Though this was steamier than I'd like (I ended up skimming a decent bit of that) the story and characters were great.
This is second book in Toni’s Knoxville Bears series and I enjoyed this one much more than the first. I love a good marriage of convenience story and this def hit the mark for me.
This story follows Coleson and Eliza. Eliza McDavid wants to start her own coffeehouse and she visits the local establishment, Drippy Drip each day to get her caffeine fix, but to also admire the set-up. Drippy Drip is owned by AHL hockey player Coleson Katz, who lives above the shop. Coleson is working to reform his bad boy image after making some pretty big gaffes. With the help of the team's PR team and they have suggested that settling down, first with a steady girlfriend, but then by marrying her will be his best course of action. When Eliza comes into the coffee shop one morning, Coleson realizes he might have figured out the solution to his problem. He can teach Eliza how to run a coffee shop, she can marry him for a year and as a trade, he will give her Drippy Drip.
I really enjoyed how Eliza and Coleson chemistry. The attraction was there from the beginning and given both of them had been through challenging things in their lives they were able to connect with one each other in ways others could not. he way they supported each other showed just how perfect they were for each other! I was glued to the pages by their witty and feisty banter, their spicy chemistry, the dramatic twists and turns, the hockey action, and the heartfelt emotion. I loved seeing more of the bond of the McDavid sisters, and even some glimpses of other old friends. And as always Toni writes some of the best spice. I couldn’t get enough!!!
I cannot wait to continue this series. Thank you Toni for sending me an eARC.
Overall: 4.5 Spice: 3.5
Tropes: - Hockey Romance - Marriage of Convenience - Grumpy x Sunshine - Friends to Lovers - Reformed Playboy
Another fun hockey romance focusing on the McDavid sisters - this time it's Eliza. She wants to open a coffeeshop but is having a hard time getting the training she needs to make it a success. She is a daily visitor to Drippy Drip - the neighborhood coffee shop owned by Coleson Katz, who lives above the shop and also is an up-and-coming hockey player for the Knoxville Bears, an AHL feeder team for the Nashville Assassins. Coleson is a reformed bad boy - the only problem is that his reputation is still trashed and nothing he's done so far has helped. When the team PR person says that he needs to get a steady girlfriend and then get married, he's skeptical but willing to try. The only problem is who can he convince? These two have been on each other's radar and there's been a bit of an attraction but neither has been in the right place to act on it. Coleson sets the scene in his shop and romances Eliza in an effort to convince her to marry him for a year. You know that this is going to be hot and steamy. You know that when these two get out of their heads and stop overthinking that the love will bloom. It's just so damn fun getting there. Coleson has his demons, mostly from his mother's mental abuse, and Eliza does, too. She escaped a cult and now she wants to put it behind her. It's probably not required to read the other McDavid books to enjoy this, but it does add to the enjoyment. So if you're new to the series, start with Heavy Shot and Pucks and Books which tell Austen's and Louisa's stories.
This book is steamy - and not just in the shower, although that shower...yum. If you're into hot hockey romances, this series should definitely be at the top of your TBR.
Quote I liked:
No one will drag either of us down as long as we stand together.
Loved this book. But I confess to being biased because Toni Aleo is one of my favorite authors. I've read all her books. Pucks and Coffee is book #2 in the Knoxville Bears series. It's the story of Eliza McDavid (the second oldest McDavid sister) and Coleson Katz. Eliza is the granddaughter of Dan Davenport, owner of the Knoxville Bears.
If you love a spicy marriage of convenience/fake relationship hockey romance, then this is the book for you! I think that Eliza is my favorite McDavid sister so far in the series. Eliza was always honest with herself and Coleson about her feelings which I loved. This honesty (sometimes brutal) shows a confident woman despite her past trauma. Eliza was always the sunshine to Coleson's negativity. Coleson just broke my heart. I wanted to hug him and smack him at the same time. Hug him for all the hurt he suffered and the fact that he was so hard on himself yet smack him for allowing his fears to interfere with his feelings for Eliza.
I think my favorite part of this book was the banter between not only Eliza and Coleson, but also Eliza and her sisters. Those sisters have a bond that is fierce and protective. Family bonds (whether blood or found) is a constant theme in all of Toni Aleo's books.
Highly recommend this book. Eager for the next one - Elliot's story.
I really loved Eliza and Coleson! What was merely supposed to be a marriage of convenience didn't turn out that way. And I loved it. I loved the things he did to make her feel spoiled and special but I love most of all the way he tried to be the bigger person in his past problems. I loved getting more of the Knoxville Bears and the team. But also more of Nashville and the older players. The book was so good! I can't wait for next one.
If you're a fan of heartfelt romance sprinkled with a dash of hockey excitement, then "Pucks and Coffee," the second book in Toni Aleo's Knoxville Bears series, is perfect for you. As someone who has always adored Toni Aleo's storytelling, I was completely captivated by Eliza and Coleson's journey.
Eliza McDavid, tired of disappointing relationships and determined to find love and safety after years of abuse, dreams of opening her own coffee bar. The only problem? She has no idea how to run one. Enter Coleson Katz, a hockey player with a reputation tarnished by past mistakes. To salvage his career and secure a spot in the NHL, Coleson needs a wife to clean up his image. A fake marriage seems like the perfect solution for both their problems: he teaches Eliza the ropes of running a coffee shop, and she helps him restore his reputation. But as they spend more time together, their arrangement becomes anything but simple.
From the moment I started reading, I was hooked by the dynamic between Eliza and Coleson. Eliza's sunny disposition and unwavering honesty were a delightful contrast to Coleson's more guarded and troubled personality. Watching their relationship evolve from a practical arrangement to a deep emotional connection was incredibly satisfying. The chemistry between the characters was palpable, and their banter brought a smile to my face more times than I can count. Toni Aleo has a knack for creating characters with depth and vulnerability, and both Eliza and Coleson were no exception. Their personal struggles and past traumas added layers to their personalities, making their journey to love feel genuine and relatable.
Eliza and Coleson were wonderfully developed, and their interactions felt authentic and heartfelt. Eliza's journey from a trauma survivor to a confident businesswoman was inspiring, and Coleson's transformation from a notorious bad boy to a devoted partner was heartwarming. The strong bond between the McDavid sisters added an extra layer of warmth to the story. Their fierce support for one another was touching and highlighted the importance of family, whether by blood or choice. Both main characters dealt with significant emotional challenges, and watching them support each other through their struggles was a testament to the healing power of love. The slow-burning romance and the steamy moments between Eliza and Coleson were perfectly balanced. The way they slowly broke down each other's walls made their eventual union even more satisfying.
While I enjoyed the Knoxville Bears setting, I found myself wishing for more glimpses of the Assassins crew, I missed them. Additionally, Coach Riggs McCoy piqued my curiosity, and I’m eager to read more about him in future books.
"Pucks and Coffee" is a beautifully crafted romance that combines the excitement of hockey with the warmth of a love story. Toni Aleo has once again proven her talent for creating stories that tug at the heartstrings while keeping readers eagerly turning the pages. This book is a must-read if you love a good marriage of convenience trope with a side of sports romance. I can't wait to dive into the next installment of the Knoxville Bears series and see more of the McDavid sisters' adventures. Now is the perfect time if you haven't started this series yet. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
Happy reading!
Would I recommend this book: Yes Would I re-read this book: Yes Would I read future books by this author: Yes
I knew this book would be amazing! It absolutely did not disappoint. Eliza McDavid has such a pure heart and wants to be loved and love someone fiercely. Coleson Katz has never had unselfish love, not from his parents and he refuses to be destroyed by living the way his father did by never being enough. Both Eliza and Coleson have been hurt so could they possibly be what the other needs? 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: Eliza McDavid is done with dating. Every man she meets does nothing for her. After years of abuse, she knows she wants safety—but most of all, she wants love. Each of her sisters has her own passion, and Eliza thinks she’s found hers when she decides to open her own coffee bar. But she doesn’t have a clue how to run one. She knows someone who does, however, but he won’t give her the time of day.
Until he does.
Coleson Katz’s reputation is worse than the sludge shoveled off the ice between periods of a hockey game. He has made some bad personal choices, so when it’s time for him to be called up to the NHL, no one wants to give him a chance. He’s told that the only way to fix his reputation is by finding a wife, but he wants to do anything other than that. Who would want to marry a hockey player who is known for sleeping around?
But then he’s reminded that Eliza wants to learn how to operate a coffee shop. He owns one of those, has been running it his whole life. He proposes a trade. His coffee shop in exchange for a year of her life in a fake marriage to him.
Easy peasy.
Or so he thinks.
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.
Love. LOVE. LOVE this book!!! Pucks and Coffee is the 2nd book in Toni Aleo’s newest Knoxville Bears series. This latest book is in the “Marriage of Convenience” genre and in my opinion, Ms. Aleo has written a spectacular story. The main characters in this book are Eliza McDavid and Coleson Katz. Both characters are a bit emotionally challenged due to circumstances that happened to them growing up. They are both really reserved in their ideas of relationships. Eliza wants to find someone like her sisters have. Until such a time arises, she is determined to open a coffee house, but has no clue on how to do so. She does know of someone who does, but will he help her??? Coleson has acquired a reputation for a revolving door to his bed, MUCH to the league’s aggravation. They have told him he needs to settle down and find a wife and put the revolving door out of commission. Coleson has a plan on how and who to do it with!! You know, since he has the family coffee shop, and Eliza wants him to teach her the ropes of running one. He shares his plan with Eliza. Marry him for one year, and he will give her the coffee shop. However, you know what is said about the best laid plans…. I was ecstatic watching the plan “fail”. I really liked seeing both of them overcome their hangups from their past and start to realize their feelings for each other. Oh my gosh, the steam in this book! Yeah, my kind of book!!! This book is definitely a stand-alone romance, however to better understand what the McDavid sisters went thru to get to where they are now, read Heavy Shot, and Pucks and Books. Because of my absolute love of reading romance, especially hockey romance, I was gifted with a copy of this wonderful book for my reading enjoyment and for my thoughts and opinions. Again, LOOOOOOVED this book!! Thank you for reading my review. So, what are you waiting for? Go hit that purchase button on Amazon. And when you are done reading, come back and let us know what you thought about the book. Have a great day, and happy reading…
To the point: Reformed playboy/hopeless romantic, marriage of convenience, overcoming perceptions and the past, and no one can forget the the hot hot spice!!! Let's say that my husband loves it when I read Toni Aleo's books....and he has never read one single word of them :)
Fangirl: Can I say that I love Toni's books? I don't know how she does it. But she is one of 5 authors that I will buy the book before reading the blurb, even when in KU. She is able to have such a good mix of heart, humor, and spice. There is such a good story and life lesson and learning, but not so much angst that my anxiety-medicated self can't take it. I don't even really feel any angst because right from the beginning, Toni pulls me into the characters and makes me root for them, even when they seem like they are the most unlovable, terrible people ever. The characters are human; they are not perfect (even if the men have drool-worthy bodies. They are hockey players, and these are romance novels!!!!). These characters have flaws, quirks, and real personality traits that readers can connect with. Especially a female reader with the female main character. And I love that this is a plot-driven book, but the spicy times are hot! But the spicy times flow with the plot and aren't just thrown in for the heck of it. I could write so much more!! Give this book a try!
Need to know: This is not the first book in the series, but it can be read as a complete standalone. However, this series is about sisters and a hockey team, so you will have met characters before. But everything that you need to know will have been given to you. You will just get a bit more out of it if you have read the previous books in the series and even the other series by this author. But for sure. If you give this a try, you will want to read all the other books by this author!
Pucks and Coffee is another great addition to the Knoxville Bears series by Toni Aleo!
Eliza McDavid wants to start her own coffeehouse and she visits the local establishment, Drippy Drip each day to get her caffeine fix, but to also admire the set-up. Drippy Drip is owned by AHL hockey player Coleson Katz, who lives above the shop.
Coleson is working to reform his bad boy image after making some pretty big gaffes. With the help of the team's PR team and they have suggested that settling down, first with a steady girlfriend, but then by marrying her will be his best course of action. He's willing to try because his goal is the NHL, but he's skeptical at best. Is there anyone out there that would even be a candidate?
When Eliza comes into the coffee shop one morning, Coleson realizes he might have figured out the solution to his problem. He can teach Eliza how to run a coffee shop, she can marry him for a year and as a trade, he will give her Drippy Drip. No one falls in love, it's just a means to an end, simple right? As they say, best laid plans...
I really enjoyed how Eliza and Coleson interacted and got along. The attraction was there from the beginning and given both of them had been through challenging things in their lives they were able to commiserate with one another in ways others could not. Eliza was the type of person Coleson had never had in his life and he came out of his shell with her around. It was a great thing to see. It is always fun to see Eliza's sisters and her peepaw too.
This was an enjoyable read and one that I would definitely recommend!
Toni Aleo scores again!!! I liked Eliza in book one, Pucks and Books. She had a dream in that book to put a small coffee shop in her sister's bookstore. She has been asking Coleson, owner of Drippy Drip to teach her how to make coffee for a year. You have to respect her determination. You have to respect the way she handles his rejection. I worship her obsession to make a great cup of coffee.
I became obsessed with Coleson in the first book. He is troubled. He is screaming out for help but not knowing it. He has been dealt a bad hand. He is own worst enemy. In Pucks and Coffee he is getting help cleaning up his reputation. His reputation will need a lot of bleach to clean it up. El Davenport, publicist, has the bleach, a brand called marriage.
What could happen when two overly obsessed people get together? Is really the perfect deal? Coleson wants into the NFL bad enough to give up his coffee shop for a year of Eliza'a life. He has no clue what he is getting into but I loved every word of discovery. I have to respect his desires, but couldn't help but giggle over his cluelessness. He might not want to become invested, but he didn't bank on Eliza.
Pucks and Coffee is loaded with drama. I had a difficult time putting it down. I just had to know what would happen next. There were a few definite jaw dropping moments. When I wasn't devouring the drama the Holy Hot Sex kept me turning the pages. I am surprised that my Kindle didn't have steam flowing off of it. Oh too be young again.
𝐏𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐞 is the 2nd book in the Knoxville Bears series by Toni Aleo, featuring a must-read grumpy/sunshine, fake marriage romance for Eliza and Coleson. Eliza McDavid has been dreaming of building her own success story in the form of a coffee shop, as she has watched her sisters make their mark on the world. Unfortunately, the one man who could teach her everything she needs to know doesn’t want to train his competition. But when coffee shop owner/hockey player, Coleson Katz finds himself in dire need of an image overhaul, he makes Eliza an offer… ownership of his coffee shop for a year of marriage to help him get into the NHL. What could possibly go wrong with an agreement like that?😉
This is another hit for this series! I love the way Toni Aleo creates such layered characters! We already knew that Eliza survived a horrific past by escaping a cult, and watching her grow and thrive was a joy, but Coleson had his own painful journey as well, as different as it was. The way they supported each other showed just how perfect they were for each other! I was glued to the pages by their witty and feisty banter, their spicy chemistry, the dramatic twists and turns, the hockey action, and the heartfelt emotion. I loved seeing more of the bond of the McDavid sisters, and even some glimpses of other old friends. I would give this all the stars if I could! And that epilogue? Gah! I can’t wait for the next book!!!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Pucks and Coffee brings us the bad boy/playboy of AHL, Colson Katz, needing to clean up his reputation so he can get to his goal, the NHL. His publicist suggests a way for him to fix his playboy image, marriage. Can he really get married so he can go to the next level?
Eliza McDavid has been helping her sister run her bookshop, but has dreams of her own. She wants to have her own thing and be successful like each of her sisters. She Wants to run her own coffee shop. She has been asking the owner of Drippy Drip, Coleson Katz, for over a year to teach her about running a coffee shop but he refuses. She doesn't give up though.
Both have goals they are trying to reach and Coleson comes up with a plan. Though he doesn't want to lose the only thing left from his father, he really wants the NHL, so he strikes a deal with Eliza. He will train her and give her Drippy Drip in exchange for one year of marriage. The chemistry from the beginning is hard to ignore. She is so supportive in his dream and he shows a new side of himself to only her at first. She shows him such confidence the he needed and that there is always someone in his corner no matter what. Can he really handle a year and then leave? What starts as fake feels more real as time goes by and if she can prove to him that he is more then how he sees himself, it could be another HEA for the McDavid sisters!!!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Coleson Katz has a horrible reputation and he knows it. He is also trying to change it, but some people won’t move past his mistakes. When his PR rep tells him he needs to get married (which he is against) he considers it and asks the one person he knows wants something from him- his coffee shop.
Eliza McDavid had been intrigued by Coleson for a while, but has recently sworn off men. She wants something of her own, since her sisters are all finding the man of her dreams. When Coleson asks her to marry him, in name only, and in a year he will give her his coffee shop, she says yes. Even knowing her heart will be broken in the end.
Watching the two of them learn about, support and defend each other was sweet. Neither one had a good childhood and seeing her defend him to her family and his teammates, as well as, having his back in the hotel was fantastic. I loved his reaction when he found out about her past and how quickly he changed his reactions to her idiosyncrasies was also a nice touch.
I loved this book and seeing Coleson meet his match and learn how to accept love was fantastic. He fought it, denied it, and didn’t believe he was good enough. Eliza was also insecure in some ways. She knew she would fall for him, she was just hoping that she would survive. I adored how steadfast she was and how she refused to let him push her away, especially near the end of the book.
I can’t wait for more in this series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Eliza McDavid is done with dating and is ready to begin something of her own. Each of her sisters has their own passion, and Eliza thinks she’s found hers… opening her own coffee bar. But she doesn’t have a clue how to run one. She knows someone who does, and he wants nothing to do with her.
Coleson Katz’s has made some bad personal choices, so when it’s time for him to be called up to the NHL, no one wants to give him a chance. He’s told that the only way to fix his reputation is by finding a wife, but he wants to do anything other than that.
But then he remembers that Eliza wants to learn how to operate a coffee shop. He proposes a trade. His coffee shop in exchange for a year of her life in a fake marriage to him.
My Review Just like the first book in her Knoxville Bears series, Toni Aleo brings another fun and heartwarming story that brought a lot of chuckles and spice.
You will immediately be fans of both Eliza and Coleson. Eliza is a sassy, fun character with a heart of gold. Coleson has a past that causes him to believe he shouldn’t love but don’t count him out. What starts out as a fake marriage helps him begin to see who he really is and what kind of life he is capable of having.
I really enjoyed their story, and had to stop myself from cackling out loud (get to page 219(ish) and tell me you don’t have the same reaction). Really though, what better story can you ask for? Fake marriage, hockey, and a coffee shop? I’m for that every time.
This was such a great story! If you're a fan of fake romance tropes, Pucks and Coffee delivers it in the best way—with a fake marriage that kicks off with sparks flying and only gets hotter from there.
Eliza and Coleson had me laughing, swooning, and rooting for them the entire time. Their chemistry—both in and out of the bedroom—is off the charts. Every moment between them felt electric, but what made their connection even more powerful was the depth of loyalty and love that grew between them.
I absolutely adored how Eliza’s sisters rallied around her. Those ladies don’t hold back—they’re fierce, protective, and completely unfiltered—and I loved every second of it. You can feel the strength of their bond and how deeply they care for each other.
Coleson’s past wasn’t easy, and watching him open up and slowly let Eliza in was so emotional and rewarding. She stood by him with everything she had, showing him what unconditional love really looks like. It was beautiful to see her fight for their future when he couldn’t yet see it for himself.
These two are hot together, no question. There was no denying the feelings between them—and Eliza sure as hell wasn’t going to let him walk away.
Toni Aleo nailed this one. It’s funny, sexy, emotional, and full of heart. I couldn’t stop reading and didn’t want it to end. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hockey romance with a side of sass and steam!
Pucks & Coffee is a wild ride of a marriage of convenience romamce that is full of sizzling chemistry, witty banter, tension filled family drama, swoon worthy friends to lovers and so much more.
When Hottie Hockey star Coleson Katz needs to clean up his public image his PR rep suggests he settle down and get a wife he's not on board. However when his shot at making the NHL is on the line he goes all in and starts working on finding a wife at least for a year or until he gets called up to the Big Leagues.
Eliza McDavid is missing something in her life. She's staying with her sister and helping her with the Bookstore but she doesn’t have her own passion driving her. What she doesn’t expect is for Coleson to ask her out, she especially didn't imagine him asking her to be his fake fiance/ wife. She definitely didn’t expect him to throw in his family coffee shop as incentive.
The thing about fake marriage and fake relationships in general is there's always gonna be one person that catches feelings. It's even better when it's BOTH of them doing it.
Toni gives us a ice melting and a heart-pounding romance. I fell in love with these characters hard and fast. Coleson &Eliza grabbed my heart and didn't let go.
I can wait to return to The world of the Knoxville Bears 🐻
Toni Aleo always delivers phenomenal hockey romances that are compulsive reading, and her new series, the Knoxville Bears, is another shining example. "Pucks and Coffee," Book 2, has all the elements that I've come to expect from this beloved author. It's steamy, full of delightful banter, and boasts a flawless storyline.
The chemistry between Eliza and the reformed, soon-to-be NHL player, Coleson, is electric, lighting up the pages both in and out of the bedroom. What makes this story stand out is Coleson's unique background. Having recently transitioned from the AFL with the Nashville Assassins (another fantastic series by Aleo), he's now a rising star in the hockey world. Yet, he also owns a coffee shop, adding a unique twist to his character.
Eliza, driven by her ambition to make her coffee shop the best, seeks Coleson's expertise. They have been dancing around their attraction for over a year, and Coleson sees this as the perfect opportunity to finally act on his feelings and comes up with a cunning plan. The story masterfully blends their professional and personal lives, creating a rich, engaging narrative.
The moments of tension, especially near the end, are gasp-worthy and keep you on the edge of your seat. Once again, ToniAleo proves she's at the top of the hockey romance game with her compelling storytelling and unforgettable characters. "Pucks and Coffee" is a must-read that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next instalment.
Eliza is another of the McDavid sisters, and watching thier journey from what they grew up in has been heartwrenching. With 2 of the sisters finding happiness with hockey playres, is it Eliza's fate too?
Coleson is one of the Bears' players, albeit the one with the absolute worst reputation. He has a shady past and well it involves a teammates wife, so it is even worse than just being a horn dog. The team's publicist tells him he should find a wife to help clear his rep, but she didn't mean her sister.
Eliza has had a thing for Coleson, not just physically but he happens to also own the coffee shop she loves going to. She has tried to get thim to tell some secrets so she could do a little coffee nook in the bookstore but nothing. When Coleson is confronted with this deal, he decides they can both win. She can get the coffee shop and he can get the wife, the better reputation, and maybe his NHL dream will come true.
Eliza see's so much more in Coleson than he does. His upbringing made him the man he is and it isn't pretty,but Eliza sees so much more. She sees the hurt and betrayal, heck she has been through it all too.
Can these two broken souls find true love and happiness with each other?
Pucks and Coffee is bad boy AFL star Coleson Katz and Elizabeth McDavid’s entertaining and steamy journey and its book two in the Knoxville Bears Series. If Coleson has any chance of making it to the NFL he needs to clean his act up and his publicist decides the way to do is to meet a girl, get married and start a family all with in 3 months. Eliza helps her sister run the bookshop but her dream is to own her own coffee shop. She has been bugging the owner of the Drippy Drip, Coleson for over a year to teach her how to run a coffee shop. Well now he has a plan that will help both of them achieve their dreams…… A deal to stay married for a year and the Drippy Drip is hers, problem is she wants more and it’s not long before he is having feelings he never wanted. So will this be a match made in heaven or will they walk away after a year. One click to find out. Pucks and Coffee is a great addition to the series and I fell hard and fast for bad boy Coleson but my heart skipped a few beats as he went from playboy to lover. A great read with plenty of witty banter and wonderful characters that I highly recommend to all sports romance lovers.
Toni Aleo lights the lamp with PUCKS AND COFFEE (Knoxville Bears #2). Eliza McDavid wants to open a coffee bar. However, she has no idea what it entails. She repeatedly asks for the help of the local coffee shop owner Coleson Katz. He has turned her down not wanting competition.
Coleson is also a member of the Knoxville Bears. He has a shot at making it to the NHL. Unfortunately, he does not have a good reputation. His publicist suggests getting married and cleaning up his act. Coleson strikes a deal with Eiza: a year of marriage in exchange for his coffee shop.
Toni Aleo does it again. PUCKS AND COFFEE is a heartfelt and entertaining read. Coleson and Eliza are excellent characters. They are likeable and genuine. They face interesting obstacles like the fact Eliza forgets to mention that her grandfather is the owner of the Bears. I love how the characters grow throughout the story.
PUCKS AND COFFEE is the perfect addition to the Knoxville Bears series. After reading the ending, I am looking forward to Elliot’s story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I loved Pucks and Coffee! You should know by now that if you’re reading a Toni Aleo book you will fall in love with the characters and their emotionally heartbreaking journeys, it’s a given. Then add in the hero that just wins your heart over every time. Eliza has been through a lot and wants that real love in her life, but it’s not so easy to find. Until Coleson needs her help and is willing to share his coffee secrets with her as long as they get married for a year. Coleson has quite the reputation and it’s hurting his hockey career. The attraction is mutual, but they both want different things. As Coleson and Eliza try and figure out married life, the close proximity and chemistry becomes harder and harder to ignore. Can Eliza help Coleson make it to the NHL and get her dream coffee shop or will their fake marriage end before they even give it a chance? I loved the adventure that these two take us on. It has all the laughter, sweet and swoon worthy moments, and the heartbreaking ones that only make these character stronger. Don’t miss out on the second book in this series, it’s everything!
If you came to the comment section to see if you should read Pucks and Coffee, this is your sign to run and read this book. Book 2 in the Knoxville Bears series brings us Eliza and Coleson. All her life Eliza hasn’t anything that she could truly call her own. Eliza has found something she enjoys: coffee. With the dream of opening her open coffee shop she just needs a little help- learning how to make it. Enter Coleson Katz, local coffee shop owner and player on the Knoxville Bears. When Coleson’s reputation hinders his dreams of making to the NHL, he is given a suggestion on how to help his image. He strikes a deal with Eliza. Coleson and has convinced himself he can go into an agreement with no emotions. Of course that would lead to a boring book so luckily Toni Aleo makes the characters work for their happily ever after. Coleson quickly finds out Eliza could be just the right blend of spice for him. As with any Toni Aleo book, there is the perfect amount of hockey, spice, humor and angst. I don’t know how she tops herself after each book but I think readers will fall in love with Eliza and Coleson. I definitely binge read this book, I'm sure you'll binge it too.
Another amazing hit from Toni! This one will give you all the feels and then some! You will swoon for Coleson, and just fall in love with Eliza! 5 hot hockey stars for this one! Eliza didn't have the best life growing up, but after being rescued along with her sisters by their grandfather, life has been better. All her sisters have found their way, doing their own thing, and she's been working with her sister, helping out in her book store, but she wants more, like to add coffee to the store, but her sister is not sure about that. There is a coffee shop just down from the bookstore, and she has constantly asked the owner, Coleson to show her how to make coffee, and he's always been resistant, after all, he's got the only coffee shop in town, why would he help her with her dream of her own. Until that is, he realizes that if he helps her get her dream, she can help him obtain his own dream, playing in the NHL, but he needs to clean up his act, and she's the perfect person to help him do this! Read along and enjoy their story as it unfolds, you're going to love these two! Great job once again to Toni Aleo, this is a winner!
“Brewed Love: Eliza and Coleson’s Story” masterfully blends heartfelt romance and personal redemption in an engaging narrative. Eliza McDavid, scarred by years of past abuse, dreams of opening a coffee bar but lacks the know-how. Enter Coleson Katz, a disgraced hockey player with a tarnished reputation and a hidden expertise in running coffee shops. Desperate to clean up his image for a shot at the NHL, Coleson proposes an unusual deal: he’ll teach Eliza the ropes of the coffee business if she agrees to a year-long fake marriage.
The book beautifully captures Eliza’s journey from mistrust to love, illustrating her quest for safety and fulfillment. Coleson’s transformation from a misunderstood playboy to a dedicated partner adds depth to his character, making their evolving relationship believable and deeply touching. The narrative is sprinkled with moments of humor, warmth, and the challenges of their unconventional arrangement, creating a compelling and satisfying read. “Brewed Love” is perfect for romance enthusiasts who enjoy stories of personal growth, second chances, and the magic of unexpected love.
Coleson needs a wife to bolster his reformed playboy image, if he has any chance of being selected by a NHL team and he realizes that he has something to offer Eliza, if she agrees to help him. Eliza wants a coffee shop of her own, to give her a sense of purpose as each of her sisters have their own ‘thing’. So, when Coleson offers to give her his Dad’s coffee shop, in exchange for a 12 month marriage of convenience, she agrees. They have been crushing on each other for a while now and the fake marriage opens the door for them to discover love - via a journey fraught with laughter, tears and hot sex of course! As they both overcome their fears and learn to trust in love, Coleson and Eliza are just beautiful together. Despite the hurdles they face - backlash from Eliza’s family and Coleson being treated like a pariah by his teammates, to name a few - they both grow as individuals and as a couple, finally finding their HEA. If you’re looking for a super steamy, hockey romance; I highly encourage you to read this book! Toni Aleo never disappoints
MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!! I received this book as a ARC for my honest review. I could not put it down. Coleson and Eliza are both two strong people each with their own ghosts. Coleson wants nothing more than to play professional hockey and Eliza wants to be her own boss with something away from her sisters success. Eliza has been asking Coleson for help with learning the coffee business as he owns a successful coffee shop, but Coleson does not want to train someone who is going to be competition. When his reputation effects him playing hockey, and the only suggestion is to have a fake fiancée/wife. He asks Eliza to fill that role, offering the coffee shop if she marries him for one year. Of course Eliza takes the offer, what Coleson does not know is who Eliza's family is which causes some problems of it's own. And his previous reputation pops up and hurts him in ways that Eliza hates and tries to help fix. When it all comes to a head, Eliza is there to help him rise from the ashes and they get their HEA. I loved the growth of Coleson and Eliza's steadyfast determination to help him. Another great book from Toni Aleo!
this book was SO CUTE. although I think Coleson js an idiot for not getting it together sooner, I also think he deserves the world. this was yin and yang two polar opposite people who were made for each other. Eliza powered her way into his life and did not take no for an answer. we all knew Coleson loved her and she eventually got it out of him. I’m devastated he got hurt though and I’m sad he never reconciled with his teammates. I hope he gets a permanent spot on the Assassins when he recovers. something else I loved about the story was that he couldn’t call her by her name. it just made whenever he did call her Eliza so much freaking cuter. It was hilarious and caught me so off guard when Eliza made a comment comparison about Louisa getting hit by a truck. my jaw dropped. anyway I loved this book it was beyond adorable. BUT THAT CLIFFHANGER HELLO!? that’s Cruz’s baby and I’m so here for the drama that’s coming on July 31st. I hate accidental pregnancy so hopefully this is written well and she lets him back in sooner rather than later. Cruz deserves his redemption. he wasn’t given a very good first impression.
Oh man, Coleson of the Knoxville Bears has what it takes to make it to the NHL EXCEPT he has made some extremely bad choices. Some of his team mates don't like him for some of his choices so they're not playing nice. He's been cleaning up his act and with the advice from his PR he was told find a "girlfriend" and get engaged within 3 months. He can't think of anyone who he wants to be around that long.
Eliza has had a dream of owning a coffee shop and asks Coleson everyday to show her how. He always tells her o but When Eliza comes in, he sees his chance of getting what he wants. He tells her the truth of what he needs and what he'll give her in return.
Coleson doesn't find out about her family until what you might say is too late. When her sister finds out, the gloves her off and I'm going you go girl!!! Let's just say he was shocked.
They follow through while having some outside issues, are they going to be able to see what's right in front of their faces and what's in their hearts or is Coleson ONLY seeing a way to the NHL???