The Risk Taker

Boston Hawks Hockey #2

by Gina Azzi

Boston Hawks bad boy Easton Scotch is that guy. Untouchable, reckless, and sexier than any one man ought to be.

As my brother’s best friend, East has always seen me as a kid. But now, I’m his new roommate and I’m going to show him that Claire Merrick is all grown up.

(more coming soon)

Genres: Hockey, Sports, Sports Romance, Hockey Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers

236 pages, Paperback

Published March 11, 2024

About the author

Hi! I'm Gina and I write realistic, relatable, sweet New Adult and Contemporary Romance books. A NJ native, I have lived and worked abroad before settling in Canada with my husband and Littles. Although I can't iron (at all), I am a passionate reader, frequent globetrotter, and aspiring baker (recipes appreciated!). I love hearing from fellow readers so please connect!

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Reviews

[Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.• · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easton has been in rehab for the last few months after falling off the wagon too many times. His position in the team at Boston Hawks is at risk and he really only has one more chance to make the changes he needs to reset the course of his life. It’s not going to be easy but with the right support around him he will succeed.

Claire has had a crush on Easton for years. Her brother too plays for the Boston Hawks so she has been around the team since she was young. Easton has no idea that Claire has been crushing so hard but he is about to find out when she ends up being his new roommate. His brother Noah has moved in with his new girlfriend and Claire is currently trying to figure out her next career move while living at home with her parents. She jumps at the chance to live with Easton.

Once she gets past his initial gruffness, they find that being roomies is fun. They find a nice routine that works for them, Claire cooks his favorite meals and they enjoy each other’s company. After a while Easton stops looking at Claire as the young girl she was to the gorgeous woman she is now and before too long the lines are blurred. Of course, this is everything that Claire has dreamed of, Easton Scotch wanting her and caring for her.

‘There’s no way I could reject what Claire is offering. Because she’s offering herself. More than just her body. But her care, her concern, her fucking light. Only a fool would deny her and I’ve been a fool ten times over.’

This all comes at a risk for both of them though. Easton is supposed to be solely focusing on his recovery and his carer. Having a love interest is another layer in his life that he has to think about. Claire has pressure from her family to get a ‘real job’ and not pursue the career dreams she has only shared with Easton. Is taking a risk on each other going to end in disaster for both of them?

‘She believes I can do this. She thinks I can be strong enough to be worthy of her. How can I let her down? How can I not even try? For her?’

This potential love story was hinted at in The Sweet Talker so I was looking forward to seeing how things would play out. Easton had so much going on but I love how being with Claire only made things better for both of them. Another great read in this series!

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Star Review The Risk Taker by Gina Azzi (Boston Hawks Hockey #2) by Gina Azzi
 
Gina Azzi is a relatively new author to me and I have no idea why that is the case. The Risk Taker was an entertaining book that I was fully invested in from the start.
 
This is Claire Merrick and Easton Scotch’s story and what a story it was. Claire has had feelings for Easton for a long time and now that Easton is fresh out of rehab, it appears that they are going to be roommates.

Claire hopes that this might be the chance for Easton to see that she is all grown up and not just his best friends little sister. Easton is determined to get back to the game he loves and be a part of the Boston Hawks hockey team.

The chemistry between Easton and Claire is impossible to ignore, however the baggage that Easton carries may destroy their chance at happiness. He is trying to remain sober and fight his demons but it is a struggle. Claire in the meantime is struggling to find her place in life and decide what she wants to do with her life, for her, no one believes in her, until Easton.

I loved the development of their relationship and the fact that they are there for one another. I loved the support they gave to one another and I was really cheering for his to get the happily ever after that they deserve.

[Alexandra II the nine lives of my library · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t know about recovery but the romance felt a bit rushed. Even at the end, one month isn’t enough in my opinion to do all that they did.

[P · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

This book is book 2 in the Boston Hawks Series.

⚠️This book will deal with sensitive topics such as rehab, alcoholism, sobriety. ⚠️


My heart ached for Easton since the first couple of pages, i just wanted to hug him he was battling his demons throughout this book to stay sober while feeling so much self hatred, low self esteem this was quite an emotional read. 💔😩 The storyline was fantastic as well, i liked how Claire was battling her own insecurities, and how she was trying to find herself and prove her worth to her family. This is a best friends little sisters troupe.
Excited to read Torsten's book next 🤞 *cough cough marriage of convenience**

Thank you for the ARC "Give Me Books PR" in exchange for a honest review.

[diann bryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kudos to Gina Azzi for making a real life situation in this story not just another substance abuse tale but a story of recovering and hope.

When Easton comes out of rehab and has to try to beat his alcoholism alone, Indy gives him the best solution so he doesn’t have to be alone.

Claire needs to move in and get out of her parents house and if she wants to be completely honest, she’s loved Easton (her brothers best friend ) for as long as she can remember.
What could go wrong?
There’s a nice balance between these characters and you definitely will love them!

We get to see how Indy and Noah are progressing and we get a little glimpse at Rielle and Torsten who will add to the next installment of this fun series!

[Black Ink Riot · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very Amateurish

Felt like I was reading a college english class first attempt at creative writing. I almost stopped reading when the heroine named her graphic design business “Clairebear Designs.” So cringey

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easton is best friends with Austin. Easton and Noah are brothers and the three all play on the same NHL team in Boston. Austin’s sister Claire has had a crush on Easton for years. Easton has problems that started when he and Noah were young. It is hard for me to understand how parents could treat their children the way their parents did. I felt terrible for Easton as he took the brunt of his father’s punishment by deeds and words. I was glad the two had Austin and Claire’s parents to guide them growing up. When Easton gets out of rehab for the second time Noah, Noah’s wife Indy, Austin, Claire, and Austin and Claire’s parents are right their supporting Easton. I hated that Easton never felt like he deserved anyone’s help, trust or love. He always was thinking that he would mess up something. I was glad to see Easton give Claire a chance, but it did not go smoothly. I hated that their relationship was up and down, pulling at each other and yet being there for each other. This was an emotional book that had me pulling for Easton and Claire. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh I loved Claire and Easton’s story! Two people who don’t think they are good enough, successful enough for each other. Success is all relative isn’t it? Is it about making the most money even if you don’t love it? Is it about doing something you love even if you don’t make a lot of money? Easton has hockey but he’s also fighting his past, his family history, and himself with his addictions. It was so heartbreaking to read about how he thinks he’s not good enough for Claire. And Claire just graduated college and has pressure from her parents to nail down a conventional job with a 401K and a steady paycheck. She’s struggling with her future just as Easton is struggling with his past. I loved their story and of course the trope, hooking up with her brother’s best friend. It was nice to see how Indy and Noah were doing too. And we get little hints about Torsten and Rielle throughout the book. I love this hockey series and can’t wait for the next one and the next one and the next one and....you get what I mean!

~Alexis💜

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love when they least expect it! Our second jump into the Boston Hawks Hockey world was with a familiar face since we just met his twin brother in the first book of the series. I adored the characters and they were really sweet together, but I felt like some of the drama of the fight of his addiction was left on the table instead of knocking the wind out of a reader with emotional depth. I enjoyed them a lot none-the-less and am looking forward to more in the series!

Easton is a wounded character. He has self-destructed one too many times when he has the world at his feet, but he still has the demon of his past hanging around his neck. I enjoyed seeing him come into himself and start to see his own worth.

Claire is a sweetheart. She's crushed on him for years, but now that he's finally seeing her right in front of him, it freaks her out a little bit.

I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a close-knit group of characters revolving around a hockey world who find their love one team member at a time.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story, loving this series so far! 5 hockey stars for this one!

Here we get Easton's story, he's always been the screw up, but now fresh out of rehab, he's ready to embrace his new chance with hockey and life. While he learned how to get through rough times while at rehab, he finds that he has a new way to always keep some of the demons away, now that Claire has moved in with him. He can't cross that line with her, but she's so tempting, and she wants him just as much. She's got just as much going on with herself, no one believes in her, until Easton.

Will their feelings get in the way of his recovery? Will the team be mad at him for dating Claire? Read along and follow their journey! I loved this, couldn't put it down! I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing book 1 I was on pins and needles for this book and it did not disappoint. Easton and Claire have a lot of history together. They've known each other for a long time but never shown their feelings. Easton is struggling and she is his calm in the storm. They start off strong but all the insecurity and not communicating stopped their happiness for a short time. And here is why I loved all the side characters because they didn't get involved but let them work everything out by themselves.

This series is turning out to be a really nice past time and I'm here for all of it.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

[Ga Books LoverX · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like brother's best friend romances + sports romances, The Risk Taker is one that you definitely need to check out! We met both Claire and Easton in the first book and to finally get their full story, you will be hooked from the very beginning! These two both have their own demons, very different from the other, but they can relate to each other and have a HUGE amount of chemistry!

All in all this is a great book and I am totally enjoying this series. I give this 4 out of 5 stars and cannot wait for the next book!

PS: Thank you to Gina Azzi and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly.

[Marisela M. Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire and Easton story was absolutely incredible. I just enjoyed these two. I love the connection between them, and was rooting for them from the beginning. I’m glad they both got the ending they both deserved. 🩵

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Merrick is his best friend Austin’s little sister. Somewhere over the years, she became a hell of a lot more than just Austin’s kid sister. Not that Easton ever let her know that. Especially not now that he’s a washed-up NHL player completing his second stint in rehab in two years, Claire’s parents, Mary and Joe, welcomed him back with their open arms and accepting smiles. They are more of parents to him than his own, and disappointing them aches almost as much as seeing the hurt in Claire’s eyes.
His brother, Noah, and his girl, Indy, were there to welcome him home and congratulate him on making it through. Witnessing Noah be so open with his emotions hits Easton with a pang. He’s healing, moving forward with his life, on from our parents’ BS. Yet he’s still struggling, barely keeping his head above water. At this moment, the differences between them are staggering. Austin tells Easton that the team missed him. Easton laughed the feeling in my chest giving way to a blaze of panic. East is really unsure of himself after ninety days in rehab but what he’s most shaky about is the fans' reaction to him. They may want the team to keep Sims instead of him. “No pressure but we’d love to have you back at practice whenever you’re ready.” Easton nods, clearing his throat. “Hell yeah, man. Can’t wait to get back on the ice.” It’s the truth; He really can’t wait to get back on the ice. But it’s not the full truth. “What are you doing here?” he asked. She stiffens at his tone, and he hears the inhale she sucks in. “Came to see you.” “Why?” “I’m not a dick.” If she knew how much he feels for her, how much he craves her, she wouldn’t understand why he spent years of his life keeping her at arm’s length. They are heading to a “Mexican fusion restaurant with flair. Where did his growly brother who only ate sandwiches go?” Austin chuckles. “See what I mean?” He points to Noah. “Noah’s a whole new man. My cousin elevated his taste buds.” Easton didn’t really care where they went—or what they ate—as long as he could kick it with his brother, best friend, and regain a little social normalcy. Mary and Joe are inside their car. Mary waves again when she sees Easton, he can’t help but smile at the woman he loves most in the world. He knows he shouldn’t admit that since he has a real mom, but Mary Merrick is worth ten Debra Scotch’s if you know what he’s saying. Mary holds out a Starbucks cup. “Here, Easton.” “You brought me hot chocolate?” “It’s your favorite.” She shrugs. “With whipped cream.” “How’d you even remember that?” Mary grins, tipping her head toward Claire who stands next to the driver’s side window. “Claire did. She thought you’d want something warm.” Claire did something thoughtful for him. Hell, she showed up today, and he immediately pissed her off. Claire’s always been extra like that. Always going out of her way to do kind things for someone. Easton both revels in and despises the fact that she would do something thoughtful for him. He has rarely, if ever, been considerate of her.
He feels the tightness in his throat. He hates that so many people have gone out of their way to make his transition smoother. East is basically a big man-child who still needs a babysitter. Someone to make sure the house is emptied of liquor. When will he stop being such a mess and start manning up? “My parents are driving me insane.” Claire wrinkled her nose. “Still no luck with the job search?” Indy asks. “Nothing permanent. Still just freelancing.“You’re an amazing graphic designer, Claire. You will find something.” “Nothing that will let me get out from under my parents’ roof.” She is thankful for her parents. It’s just that they still treat her like she’s a high schooler, and after four years of being away at university, it’s been hard to fall back in line, when she’d rather do her own thing. Now that Easton is here it's tense, sitting with him. A lot has changed in the past ninety days. For starters, Noah hooked up with Indy and got her pregnant. Eddie Sims has taken over Easton’s position on the Boston Hawks as the starting left winger. And, Claire is still living at home. For some reason, things between Easton and Claire feel different too. Gone is the easygoing sibling-like teasing he used to spit her way. Instead, he glares now, calling her “kid” with an edge instead of as an endearment. They’ve barely spoken since he left rehab the first time, a year ago, and now her torch for him continues to burn, he glowers at her like he doesn’t understand why she’s there. Noah glances at Indy for moral support. “I’m planning on moving in with Indy. Permanently. We’re having a baby and⁠—” “Of course you’re moving in with Indy. I didn’t expect you not to.” “Really?” “Of course. No offense but I’ve lived on my own before. You know when you and⁠—” “Right, I know.” What no one wants to say is that when East did live on his own, his alcoholism veered from functioning to destructive. “Right. When Noah lived away, I messed up my life.” “It’s fine, Noah.
I get it. You’re about to be a dad. I don’t expect you to miss out on a second of Indy’s pregnancy. I don’t want you to stop your life to hold my hand. I swear, my head is on straight this time. I’m fine.” Panic rolls through her body. Her eyes widen in alarm. Austin wants Easton to live under her parents’ roof? In their family home? With her only two doors down from the guest bedroom? She picks up her Diet Coke and takes a large gulp, suddenly wishing it were straight tequila. “Or.” “Claire can move in with you.” Did she hear that wrong? She had to have heard her wrong. What the hell is going on? Why didn’t she know any of their thoughts? “What?” Noah chuckles. “No f-ing way,” Easton spits. “Why would Claire do that?” Austin asks. “No, think about it,” Indy continues calmly. “Everyone, maybe even you”—she smiles at Easton—“would feel better if you weren’t living solo. Claire’s desperate to get out of living with Aunt Mary and Uncle Joe. Your place is big enough. Your paths won’t cross unless you want them to. Claire can be an extra support person and y’all would be doing her a huge favor too.” Noah is silent for a second before he looks at his brother. “It isn’t a bad idea.” Austin furrows his brow. “You want out of Mom and Dad’s house that badly?” “Look, Mom and Dad are the best. I’m almost twenty-five, Aus. They’re making me do a curfew and call whenever I take a Lyft or Uber to make sure I properly identify the driver.” “I’ve been trying to save. I was going to talk to Torsten about those rentals he owns on the Waterfront. Maybe⁠—” “No.” Easton’s voice was cold and hard and decisive. “What?” she asked him. “You’re not living in Southie, Claire. Not that Joe would...” “Once again, I am almost twenty-five.” “Move in.” “Two birds, one stone,” Indy adds. “I’ll talk to Mom and Dad,” Austin offers. “I’m sure they’ll have some reservations but honestly, Claire, I’d feel better if you were with East than living solo on the Waterfront.” “Rielle lives in Southie, and she’s fine.” Austin’s expression tightens. She sighs, knowing he’s right, and looks at Noah. Then Easton. “I can pay you rent.” “No way. You can look out for my brother and save your money.” “Are you sure?” She asks. “He’s sure,” Easton tacks on. “But just because we’re going to be roommates doesn’t mean I need you in my business. In my life. I don’t need a babysitter.” “Got it. The same goes for you. I have my own life.” She smiled sweetly. She can pretend all she wants but living with Easton Scotch is far from a hardship. Will they become friends again? Will he talk to her about real things the way he used to? Can she tell him how she feels, or will she take it to her grave? This is such a good enemies-to-lovers relationship, brother's best friend, and secret love all rolled into one.

[Deborah Peach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easton Scotch is a recovering alcoholic who has just finished a stint in rehab. On the day he is released, his brother Noah shows up with their best friend and teammate, Austin Merrick. Noah also brought along a certain little blonde that Easton wishes he hadn't invited. Claire Merrick, Austin's little sister, has long been on his mind and he has watched her grow up into a beautiful woman he wants to get to know an awful lot better. Unfortunately, she is his best friend's little sister and that means she is off limits. Claire has been in love with Easton for years and she is tired of hiding how she feels. When she gets the chance to move out of her parent's house and into Easton's, she quickly jumps in with both feet. Everyone wants to make sure that Easton has the best support system in place and who better than perky little Claire to assist Easton with his recovery. Each of them has their reasons for wanting to live in the same house but when Easton keeps trying to sabotage his own happiness, Claire is the one who ends up hurt.

Gina Azzi handled the reality of living with someone who is an alcoholic with the utmost sensitivity. This was an absolutely fabulous read with a lot of realism to it. I cried while reading this love story but I also laughed. I wanted to hug and comfort the main characters as they stumbled along in their relationship. This book brought forth so many emotions that I still need to process them as I sit here writing this review. Bravo Gina.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gina Azzi is a fairly new author to me but I’m loving my visits to Boston and spending time with the Hawks hockey team. The Risk Taker is Claire Merrick and Easton Scotch’s story and it’s an entertaining read that captivated from the first chapter.
Easton is just out of rehab and he has a hard road ahead of him, the last thing he needs is a woman distracting him especially when he feels totally worthless but Claire has other ideas and it appears they are going to be roommates.
Claire is hoping she can convince Easton what his true worth is and she hope he will at least see her for the woman she has grown into rather than the little sister of his best friend. Hockey is the most important thing in Easton’s life and he is determined to get back on the ice with the team he loves but what happens when this pair spend time together .....
This book ticked all my boxes, it’s a hockey romance, Claire and Easton share plenty of sizzling chemistry and lots of witty banter but it was Claire fighting for the man she has loved for what seems like forever that took this story to another level. Watching Easton fight his demons on a daily basis touched my heart and I found myself wishing and hoping he would except the help Claire was offering. I’m excited for book 3 in this series and I’m excited to check out other books by and Azzi.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Say it with me? C.O.M.M.U.N.I.C.A.T.I.O.N.

To be fair, I did find this better than the other two in this series, but man are these characters bad at talking to each other.

[MNHockeymomreads (Heather) · Rating 5 out of 5]

After “meeting” Easton and Claire in The Sweet Talker I knew I was going to love them. But I wasn’t prepared for Easton to break my heart….or be so sweet. Going in we know that Easton struggles with addiction and is in rehab for the second time. We also get a glimpse into the relationship between Noah, Easton and the Merrick family. They are close, and the Merrick’s have basically adopted these grown men. Which I LOVE!!! It is proof that even as adults we need to surround ourselves with people that care about us and cheer us on even when we are not perfect!


Claire is the youngest of the three Merrick children. Fresh out of college and is seen as more flighty with no direction. But her direction is not the one her family has planned for her. She is more of a free spirit with a heart of gold! Her family sort of dismisses her, her talent and almost sees her as a flake. She also is seen as the little sister for the NHL team that Easton, Noah and her brother play on…..sisters are strictly off limits.


After a turn of events Easton and Claire find themselves living together….after the two of them have secretly crushed on the other for several years. They forge a friendship of support and then it turns steamy. And it is hot. Not only are they lovers, but they become great friends. These two create a little world for themselves tucked away from Claire’s family and their friends.

While in the previous book we see how Claire is often not honest with people, she is all in with Easton. Easton is quick to pick up on Clarie’s talent and becomes her biggest fan and encourager. Easton even stood up for her to her family. It really is my favorite part of this book is how Easton quietly encouraged Claire to go after her dreams not only in words but with actions.

Going in I really wondered how Gina was going to address the addiction, which is a hard topic. I really appreciated how she did not make light of it or make it look like recovery is easy. Easton struggled, and so many around him didn’t know how to support him. He really needed Claire, but she also needed his support, and I appreciated how it wasn’t a one sided relationship with Claire doing all of the giving.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it very difficult to put it down. Gina does a great job of introducing us to future characters, giving us a peek into their lives and makes us want more! I highly recommend this book if you enjoy sports romance with some angst and steam! Looking forward to the rest of this series!

FOUR STARS and 3 for STEAM

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Three months ago, I thought I’d never survive rehab. Now, I wonder if I’ll survive Claire."

Wow! The tension, the push and pull, the angst!! I loved Easton and Claire's story! A beautiful juxtaposition of sweet and tender moments mixed with spicy scenes, it also tackled the more serious issue of addiction. It was filled with real, raw, honest emotions as well as trust and forgiveness, understanding and compassion. Incredibly heartbreaking, it brought tears to my eyes over and over again.

"Claire Merrick could own my soul . And the darkest part of me desperately wants her to."

Easton Scotch, struggling after his second stint in rehab, had always had feelings for his best friend and teammate's little sister, Claire Merrick, but made sure to keep his distance, not wanting to give into the temptation. Easton and Claire had a long history as friends and Easton was still trying to prove himself to his team following rehab so it was easier to push Claire away than to give into what he truly wanted. At war with himself and battling conflicted feelings, Easton thought she deserved better than him, as if he wasn't worthy of her or even worth saving at all. Claire had always been attracted to Easton as well and when they finally couldn't resist their feelings any longer, the passion and intensity between them was absolute fire! But Easton was still haunted by his demons so would everything be too much too soon? Would love be worth the risk?

"My entire being vibrates with the craving that is wracking through my body like waves on the beach. Never ending and relentless."

Gina Azzi portrayed addiction convincingly well in this book. Easton was so broken and vulnerable, shattering my heart into a million little pieces. But through it all, he truly cared about Claire and was always supportive of her dreams. They were so connected and in sync, breathtaking and mesmerizing, and I couldn't look away. The third act break nearly destroyed me but that made the HEA so much more satisfying. With two strong main characters who helped each other become better versions of themselves, I never doubted they had always belonged together. As my most anticipated Boston Hawks story, this book delivered so much more than I expected and it quickly became one of my favorites of the series.

"You made me want to be a better man. For you, for me, for us."

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 2 of the series and features perpetual head in the clouds Claire Merrill and Easton Scotch. A hockey player who has been undergoing rehabilitation due to being a self destructive alcoholic who would have thrown everything away if not for the years long torch Claire had for him and a tight group of friends and found family who prop him up and encourage him when he needs it. Easton also has affection for Claire, but has never felt his life is in a position to be fully who she needs him to be.

This book was entertaining, but in all honesty, it is a novella. It is a complete story, but it has a weird weave pattern where not a lot of different things are going on, it’s the same issues, repeating themselves over and over again, in keeping with the fact that Easton and Claire rush into a relationship before he has fully embraced the fact that his disease will be a climb for him every day of his life. also, Claire’s free spiritedness was a bit selfish and unevolved, because she had parents who propped up her life and friends and family, who were very enabling of her head in the clouds approach to taking her own personal life more seriously.

This book dealt quite extensively with self-esteem issues, and the fact that some of the people who are supposed to love us fully and care for us. unquestioningly fail us through cruel ways, and also through loving us blindly.

The spice in the book was very mild, but I do appreciate what the author attempted, and for the most part achieved in the telling of the story.

Personally, I love a solid story of which this was. The book was just not worthy of a full length story. Also, I like a little smut, dirty talk and sexiness, and this book did not really have that. It was tame, but I also feel given the topic of recovering from alcoholism the smut would have been ill placed.

This is my second book by this Author and I’m not sure if I will continue if I were to see the same pattern of storytelling. I am also new to this author so I would need to investigate if she has other series that might make digging into her work worthwhile.

[Priscila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easton é um alcoólatra em recuperação. Depois de alguns meses em rehab, e tem uma vida para reconstruir. E contará com a ajuda de Claire, a irmã mais nova de Austin que é seu melhor amigo. Claire é jovem, entusiasmada e tudo que Easton não é. A moça também nutre sentimentos por ele por anos e é por corresponder a esse sentimento que ele a mantém distante. Quando Claire se muda para ser sua roomate as coisas ficam mais complicadas do que Easton imaginava e eles acabam por ceder a essa paixão. O problema é que Easton ainda é um alcoólatra em recuperação e Claire tem toda uma vida pela frente.
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Eu já li alguns livros da autora e como sempre ela não decepciona. Com um pouco mais de drama, a autora conseguiu mostrar um pouco as angústias de um adicto.
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Easton teve uma infância e uma vida muito difícil. O pai era um alcoólatra fisicamente abusivo que sempre que podia humilhava o garoto. Anos depois esse tempo de abuso cobraram seu preço e a voz do pai ainda ecoa na cabeça do homem. Com isso em mente, temos um protagonista cheio de falhas, que não se acha suficiente para a mocinha, mas que está se recuperando da maneira mais adequada possível: com reuniões do AA (alcoólicos anônimos) e com terapia.
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Claire, por sua vez, tem suas próprias inseguranças. Ela sempre é tratada como a criança da família e seus sonhos nunca são levados a sério. Seus pais querem que ela se encaixe em um molde que não foi feito para ela. E apesar disso, ela tenta dar todo o suporte a Easton. Ela é aquela mocinha que tem um bom coração e que não desiste de si mesma pelo amado.
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A relação dos dois é bem construída, com ambos respeitando um o espaço, e os sonhos, do outro. Isso foi muito bonito de ler. The Risk Talk é um romance de jogador, mas bastante maduro e bem construído.
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Se você está procurando uma ótima série de jogador com certeza essa é uma ótima opção. Infelizmente só está disponível em inglês.
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*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*

[~lil maso~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I wasn’t sure how this book was going to pan out but it was a great story and a romance that surprised everyone. Including the people involved themselves. Although each one of them knew their own feelings, they just didn't realize that the feeling was mutual.

Easton was a struggling, recovering alcoholic, having just left rehab, he is thrown into the deep end by Indy, Noah's better half. When she suggests Claire move in with him to keep him company and on the straight and narrow. From friends of old to enemies over the last year or so. The romance came out of the left-field but it was beautiful to read.

As the relationship unfolds on tentative steps, things seem to unravel fast. But for me, it was for unconfident reasons. And I wanted to shout at the pair of them. With Easton's recovery the main priority for everyone, things need to be solved. And as they work it all out. Things turn for the better. But the emotions you feel when it's all happening. Is just heartbreaking causing more than a tear or two. And not just because of the confrontations between Claire and Easton. It hurt to read friendships at breaking point too.

This story was handled very well and didn't make light of anything. This story is a total recommendation from me and this series is shaping up to be a winner.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

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[Dotti Elrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Risk Taker
Easton and Claire
A brothers best friend romance
*this book deals with addiction and rehab. It might not be for some readers*

I liked this story.
Finally getting the man of your dreams. Together working through his demons and your own self doubts. Supporting each other.
Claire has had a crush on her brothers best friend since the first time he came to their house. But East always ignored her or treated her like a kid. The little kid sister. Now all grown up she desperately wants to start acting like an adult. But job opportunities are few and far between. So she’s living with her parents, they still pay her cell bill, and depending on others for transportation.
Easton and his brother (Noah from book 1) did not grow up in a loving, nurturing family like Claire’s. Their mother was nonexistent, their father was an abusive alcoholic. East believes he’s no better than his father. Something his father reinforces with every phone call. After this round of rehab, he’s determined to do better, be a better man than the one he comes from.
Claire needs a place to stay, Noah wants someone to be around East, just in case. Perfect. They should become roommates.
Fight it as they do, their attraction for each other can’t be controlled. As it turns out, East has been attracted to Claire almost as long as she’s pined away for him.
Both characters were great.
East’s recovery was well written and you felt the turmoil boiling within him. His constant struggle to be better.
Claire was so afraid of disappointing her parents, that she put her true passion on the back burner. Until Easton gives her the encouragement she needs to push forward.
I’m really enjoying this hockey team. Very colorful characters, lots of personality.
Dual points of view
No cheating
There are bumps along the way but they do end up together in the end.
The epilogue gives us a glimpse into the next book. Torsten and Rielle’s story (Claire’s bestie)

[Laura R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easton has just gotten out of rehab for the second time and he knows he needs to get his act together if he wants to keep playing hockey. When his best friend's little sister needs a place to stay, and his roommate moves out, she ends up moving in with Easton. Claire has always had a crush on her brother's best friend, but everybody on the team knows that she is off limits. When she moves back home with her parents, and she can't stand being treated like a child anymore, her cousin suggests that instead of staying at home she can move in with Easton. With the spare room now filled by Claire, the two of them start realizing that they both have feelings for each other. Claire is doing her best to keep Easton from falling into the same habits, but Easton is really struggling to remain sober. Can he remain sober and keep the girl?

This is probably my least favorite couple that I've read in a while. I personally just didn't like Easton, or Claire for that matter. I thought she was selfish when he tries to tell her that there's a reason why recovering addicts don't date for the first year and immediately she makes it about herself. Like yeah, she was doing her best to help him, but at the same time it wasn't really her place to feel that it was her fault and she should have been more understanding about Easton and his needs while he was still brand new in his recovery. It was nice to see Easton stand up for himself with his father, and I thought that that was a long time coming -- I'm happy it finally happened, and I hate why he felt like he couldn't say anything. As much as this is supposed to be a hockey romance, this just felt like a book about somebody coming to terms of their addiction and trying to get better while dealing with an immature partner who picked and chose when she wanted to listen. With very, very little hockey. I hope the next book gets to be a little better.

[whatjtreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Risk Taker is the second book in this series Boston Hawk hockey series and focuses on Easton and Claire. Easton has just come out of rehab and trying to earn his place back on his hockey team. He feels insecure about his position on the team, ashamed about his addiction, and uncertain about Claire, though he’s really attracted to her. Claire is Easton’s best friend’s little sister, and she’s had a major crush on Easton for a long time. When they find themselves living together, lines crossed and they can’t resist each other.

I love how reflective Easton is. Easton’s father has been abusive all his life, and Easton not only struggles with his addiction but also not having a real family. You can see his own struggles to keep clean and his desire to improve his life, and I totally rooted for him. Claire’s young and just starting out in life, trying to figure out her path and making peace between that she wants and what her parents want for her future. She feels a little insecure after college when many of her friends have moved on, and people around her seem to have their life together. They couldn't help but get together while they were living in the same apartment, but I do have to give Easton credit for realizing that he needs to finish his recovery for himself before he can be completely with Claire. He can't depend on her to heal him, but he needs to take that initiative for himself. The back and forth is frustrating to Claire (as it was to me too!) but Easton's decision to put himself first shows his priority for his own healing before he can devote himself to a relationship.

I felt like Easton and Claire always belonged together, but they needed to also figure out their future and heal themselves first before coming together. I enjoyed reading about their journey and how they not only grew together but also individually.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Risk Taker
Boston Hawks Hockey bk 2
by Gina Azzi
Narrated by Tyler Darby & Emma Love

Sports romance caught me first with this listen, and when I saw it was his best friend's sister, that made it even more tempting. This is East and Claire's story and it is one that is just made me happy. We meet Easton, fresh out of rehab, ready to get back to hockey. Claire is in need of a place to live, so when offered the extra room, it serves two fold; a room over her head and someone to look out for East. The problem is, Claire has had a crush on East forever, and all he sees is a little girl. Is that true? There is a lot happening in this story, from temptation of a drink to temptation in the bedroom! Gina Azzi writes this story with the care it needs to make Easton realistic in his struggle and with passion for a couple that is finding their way. It's sweet, its sad, it's happy, it's frustrating. It made me feel, which is exactly what I loved about this couple! I need to go back a book and read book 1 and look forward to it in audio!

Tyler Darby and Emma Love both fit their roles perfectly. Darby has a smooth voice, but is able to let us into East's head with his intonation. He is a complex character with his issues but isn't forthcoming, and Darby nails it. Emma Love is new to me, and I think she fits in the new adult genre. Her voice is how I imagine Claire to sound, both a little naive, but at the same times knows herself and her feelings. She emulates it all with her voice. They are a good match for this listen and I look forward to more of their story telling.

#ALC #comingsoon #newadultromance #sportsromance #hockeyromance #audioromance #ginaazzi #tylerdarby #emmalove #pinkflamingoproductions

[Ele Scofield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh! If I though I loved Noah in The Sweet Talker, I was a fool. His brother Easton not only stole my heart but my sanity as well. I wanted to gather him up, roll him in a blanket like a burrito and keep petting him and feeding him and telling him "we'll get through this together". And I absolutely adored Claire.

Claire and Easton's chemistry was off the charts and their connecting so deep, I wondered how they could possibly be two different people.

This story touches on some important issues and I respected the hell out out of Gina Azzi for not using alcoholism as a plot device, just there to elicit cheep thrills and drama. Ideally, I would have liked a more in depth look into Easton's AA meetings and therapy sessions, just to give the whole of Easton's journey into sobriety more gravity, but all in all, the issue was handled carefully and respectfully by the author.

It was so heartbreaking at point to watch both characters struggle, but so freaking amazing to see both characters come to realisations about their lives and who they are as a person on their own and most importantly trying to be/get better, move on from their struggles and grow into the person they were meant to be, because they actually wanted to do it for themselves and not necessarily for the other person, yet they each made each other better. It was truly refreshing.

Can't wait for the next one in the series, and I really hope it's not the last.


*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I wasn’t sure how this book was going to pan out but it was a great story and a romance that surprised everyone. Including the people involved themselves. Although each one of them knew their own feelings, they just didn't realise that the feeling were mutual.

Easton was a struggling, recovering alcoholic, having just left rehab, he is thrown into the  deep end by Indy, Noahs better half. When she suggests Claire move in with him to keep him company and on the straight and narrow. From friends of old, to enemies over the last year or so. The romance came out of left field but it was beautiful to read.

As the relationship unfolds on tentative steps, things seem to unravel fast. But for me it was for unconfident reasons. And I wanted to shout at the pair of them. With Eastons recovery the main priority for everyone, things need to be solved. And as they work it all out. Things turn for the better. But the emotions you feel when it's all happening. Is just heartbreaking causing more than a tear or two. And not just because of the confrontations between Claire and Easton. It hurt to read friendships at breaking point too.

This story was handled very well and didn't make light of anything. This story is a total recommend from me and this series is shaping up to be a winner.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the first book in the series set the tone for what promised to be one of the must-read Hockey romances of 2021. 'The Risk Taker' cemented it.

Easton and Claire's story was never going to be easy, the writing was sort of on the wall from the end of the first book, The Sweet Talker. Easton just out of rehab for a drink-related issue, his main goals are to remain sober and get his place back on the team. Claire has been in love with her brother's best friend forever, but bro-code rules mean nothing has ever come of it. Claire has her own problems, as her parents try to dominate her life and her work ambitions. However, when Claire moves in with Easton to get out of her parent's home, the two gravity even more to each other. Their chemistry is sizzlingly hot and all the feelings that Easton has kept hidden now raise to the surface. But are the two being each other's secret blanket or is there more to their growing relationship?

Gina Azzi created a really absorbing story, I loved how she brought together all the elements of a couple working through their own problems while trying to navigate their growing feelings for each other. This is a must-read!

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

The Risk Taker is the second book in Gina Azzi's Boston Hawks Hockey series. And it's a fun brother's best friend romance.

Brother's best friend is my favorite trope. Add in sports, especially hockey, and it's absolutely awesome!

Claire and Easton's story is great. I was excited to read about Easton after meeting him in the first book, and am thrilled with his story.

When we first met Easton, he was in rehab. Now he's out and trying to get his life back on track. With Claire as his new roommate, he is determined not to get involved with her.

What follows is the slow breaking down of walls and a delightful ride from acquaintances to lovers.

Both are at a crossroads in life. Easton's trying to keep his career going and trying to stay sober. Claire's struggling to get her life in order, trying to follow her dreams instead of the expectations put upon her.

I love the way they support and encourage one another.

Easton's demons with alcohol are well illustrated, including the things that make him want to drink. I applaud his character in the end. His lack of self esteem is heart breaking.

The family dynamics are fabulous, with lots of wonderful moments and fun.

The Risk Taker is a great read. This Gina Azzi tale had me happy throughout. I am in love with this sports romance series so far.