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Brooklyn #6
Shenanigans
What I meant to do in Vegas: Let my hair down for once and celebrate winning a medal at my first women’s hockey all-stars competition.
What I actually did: Got senior prom drunk and woke up married to Brooklyn’s star winger, the great Neil Drake.
He’s the heir to a billion dollars, and I barely survived my childhood. Our friendship is based strictly only on hockey, takeout food and smack talk.
And now holy matrimony. Although we both know it can’t last, especially once his evil family gets wind of our Vegas shenanigans…
Contains: Meddling teammates, meddling parents, ugly jewelry and a pretend-kiss that nearly sets the world on fire.
What I actually did: Got senior prom drunk and woke up married to Brooklyn’s star winger, the great Neil Drake.
He’s the heir to a billion dollars, and I barely survived my childhood. Our friendship is based strictly only on hockey, takeout food and smack talk.
And now holy matrimony. Although we both know it can’t last, especially once his evil family gets wind of our Vegas shenanigans…
Contains: Meddling teammates, meddling parents, ugly jewelry and a pretend-kiss that nearly sets the world on fire.
354 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2022
664 people are currently reading
7594 people want to read
About the author
Sarina Bowen
108 books19.1k followers
Sarina Bowen is the 24-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary fiction, including: The Five Year Lie, the True North series, and the Brooklyn Hockey series. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. And more!
You can find a complete reading order list of Sarina's books on her website. Or see what's coming next from Sarina, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a new book or a deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 564 reviews
April 3, 2022
I'm heaving a huge, contented sigh as I write this review! What a charming, sizzling hot couple Charli and Neil made: she bristles with hostility and pushes everyone away, while Neil is just an adorable puppy who can't stop nipping at her shapely heels. A match made in.... Brooklyn!!!
I was interested to see how the incomparable Sarina Bowen would handle a "morning after the night before in Vegas" wake up scene. I was not disappointed: raunchy and hilarious! I laughed and laughed, then swooned when Neil ramped up his game and made himself totally irresistible to the secretly smitten Charli.
Neil was the perfect gentleman.... until he wasn't. Go Dude!!! And that scene in the limo! Worth all the "will they or won't they" torture that Sarina Bowen put us through!
Charli is a no-nonsense damsel with a lot of distressing relatives and baggage in her life. Neil is the prince who comes to love her in spite of, and maybe even because of, all that baggage - and how she rose above it all to become a strong, independent woman. Charli's personal courage and her drive to overcome her rough start in life made a compelling story! You come to admire Charli's grit and determination. She refuses to accept Neil's pity - or his money - but can she resist the totally hot package that is Neil Drake? (I loved how she was always concerned about his insulin levels. For me, those were big clues revealing how she really felt about him.... just so sweet!)
I highly, highly recommend this often hilarious - definitely smoking hot -addition to the Brooklyn Bruisers stand alone series.
My sincere thanks to the author, Sarina Bowen, Tuxbury Publishing LLC, and her publicists for granting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Previous/earlier posts:
I adore a great Vegas trope!!! With Sarina Bowen penning this one, it is sure to be hilarious and steamy! Can't wait!
I was interested to see how the incomparable Sarina Bowen would handle a "morning after the night before in Vegas" wake up scene. I was not disappointed: raunchy and hilarious! I laughed and laughed, then swooned when Neil ramped up his game and made himself totally irresistible to the secretly smitten Charli.
Neil was the perfect gentleman.... until he wasn't. Go Dude!!! And that scene in the limo! Worth all the "will they or won't they" torture that Sarina Bowen put us through!
Charli is a no-nonsense damsel with a lot of distressing relatives and baggage in her life. Neil is the prince who comes to love her in spite of, and maybe even because of, all that baggage - and how she rose above it all to become a strong, independent woman. Charli's personal courage and her drive to overcome her rough start in life made a compelling story! You come to admire Charli's grit and determination. She refuses to accept Neil's pity - or his money - but can she resist the totally hot package that is Neil Drake? (I loved how she was always concerned about his insulin levels. For me, those were big clues revealing how she really felt about him.... just so sweet!)
I highly, highly recommend this often hilarious - definitely smoking hot -addition to the Brooklyn Bruisers stand alone series.
My sincere thanks to the author, Sarina Bowen, Tuxbury Publishing LLC, and her publicists for granting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Previous/earlier posts:
I adore a great Vegas trope!!! With Sarina Bowen penning this one, it is sure to be hilarious and steamy! Can't wait!
March 28, 2022
"Mark me." His voice is a dare. "You know you want to."
I really like the fake relationship trope. It's usually steamy and sweet, tense, with a lot of chemistry, and fun. Shenanigans was all of that, plus a lot of emotion that really snuck up on me. I've read a few books of Sarina's by now, and this was one of her best for me.
"But when you break through her defenses, there's nothing better than her smile or the sound of her quick laughter when a joke lands."
Charli caught me by surprise. I usually find it hard to connect to the heroines, but not this one. She's strong, opinionated, and stubborn. She doesn't take things lying down. She gets up in the morning to face the world, knowing the world has been failing her for a while. So, forgive her if she's a bit too hard on herself. And mostly, forgive her for being distrustful. It comes with the territory.
"Nothing matters, except his kisses and the throbbing pace he sets as he begins to move inside me."
Weirdly enough, I had a harder time with Neil. He's sweet and fun, but there's a communication issue between his brain and his mouth. All the time. He's obviously into Charli since the last book (we get a glimpse of them in Bombshells) but he just says all the wrong things. It’s infuriating! However, he does make up for it in actions, so that worked for me.
"Did you just compare sex with me to a dehydrated potato snack?"
"Maybe I did. You're both kind of cute and a bad idea."
Charli and Neil are both professional hockey players. There's an award ceremony in Vegas, there's a lot of drinking involved, and they end up getting married. Their connection is there from the get-go, as well as intense chemistry and so much want, but none of them gives in to it. And, anyway, they need to get divorced, right?
This should be easy enough, but there’s a lot more going on, and, oh yeah, that’s right – those pesky feelings!
"Nothing about you is easy. Not one thing. But I like it that way."
When they start getting to know each other, this becomes a friends-to-lovers story, and I absolutely loved that. There's all the sexual innuendo from Neil because he's a goofball, even though we know it's not all fun and games for him. The small details that show you Charli is getting to trust him, that she's giving in to him, the way they understand each other... it’s all very heartwarming.
And the steamy scenes... let's just say that Sarina never disappoints.
"You're it for me, kitten. If I could go back in time and do it over (...) I'd go slowly. (...) – so you'd see that I'm the guy who'll always be in your corner."
The moment when Neil changed for me was the balcony scene. Yes, you'll have to read it, I'm not spoiling it. But it felt so special to me that I needed to mention it.
I know a lot of readers may not like it that you only truly understand Charli in the final chapters, but that was everything to me. You know she has trust issues, but you don't know how deep or why. We needed to know. Neil needed to know. And Charli needed to trust him as badly as he wanted her to.
"When you smile at me, it's all worth it. Every fucking thing."
This is the story of two people who really work together – of the guy who is so much more than he seems, and the girl who needed to be loved. It may not have started in the traditional (or the best!) way for either of them, but they've faced the bumps in the road. It may not all be clear blue skies from here on out, but they have each other for that.
I really like the fake relationship trope. It's usually steamy and sweet, tense, with a lot of chemistry, and fun. Shenanigans was all of that, plus a lot of emotion that really snuck up on me. I've read a few books of Sarina's by now, and this was one of her best for me.
"But when you break through her defenses, there's nothing better than her smile or the sound of her quick laughter when a joke lands."
Charli caught me by surprise. I usually find it hard to connect to the heroines, but not this one. She's strong, opinionated, and stubborn. She doesn't take things lying down. She gets up in the morning to face the world, knowing the world has been failing her for a while. So, forgive her if she's a bit too hard on herself. And mostly, forgive her for being distrustful. It comes with the territory.
"Nothing matters, except his kisses and the throbbing pace he sets as he begins to move inside me."
Weirdly enough, I had a harder time with Neil. He's sweet and fun, but there's a communication issue between his brain and his mouth. All the time. He's obviously into Charli since the last book (we get a glimpse of them in Bombshells) but he just says all the wrong things. It’s infuriating! However, he does make up for it in actions, so that worked for me.
"Did you just compare sex with me to a dehydrated potato snack?"
"Maybe I did. You're both kind of cute and a bad idea."
Charli and Neil are both professional hockey players. There's an award ceremony in Vegas, there's a lot of drinking involved, and they end up getting married. Their connection is there from the get-go, as well as intense chemistry and so much want, but none of them gives in to it. And, anyway, they need to get divorced, right?
This should be easy enough, but there’s a lot more going on, and, oh yeah, that’s right – those pesky feelings!
"Nothing about you is easy. Not one thing. But I like it that way."
When they start getting to know each other, this becomes a friends-to-lovers story, and I absolutely loved that. There's all the sexual innuendo from Neil because he's a goofball, even though we know it's not all fun and games for him. The small details that show you Charli is getting to trust him, that she's giving in to him, the way they understand each other... it’s all very heartwarming.
And the steamy scenes... let's just say that Sarina never disappoints.
"You're it for me, kitten. If I could go back in time and do it over (...) I'd go slowly. (...) – so you'd see that I'm the guy who'll always be in your corner."
The moment when Neil changed for me was the balcony scene. Yes, you'll have to read it, I'm not spoiling it. But it felt so special to me that I needed to mention it.
I know a lot of readers may not like it that you only truly understand Charli in the final chapters, but that was everything to me. You know she has trust issues, but you don't know how deep or why. We needed to know. Neil needed to know. And Charli needed to trust him as badly as he wanted her to.
"When you smile at me, it's all worth it. Every fucking thing."
This is the story of two people who really work together – of the guy who is so much more than he seems, and the girl who needed to be loved. It may not have started in the traditional (or the best!) way for either of them, but they've faced the bumps in the road. It may not all be clear blue skies from here on out, but they have each other for that.
March 7, 2022
4.25 stars
Another fantastic hockey book by Sarina Bowen! I love that we're getting characters from both the male and female professional hockey teams. Shenanigans features Charli and Neil Drake. And it's got a troupe I absolutely love. Wake up in Vegas... married.
Drake and Charli couldn't be more different on paper. He's the heir to literally billions of dollars and she played hockey on a scholarship before she made it to the big leagues. But even still, they click. They like each other. This is very much a friends to lovers story.
Charli is a little freaked when she wakes up married but Drake has reasons, family reasons, to stay married for a while. It was fun watching to see what they would do about the whole situation. Drake was the perfect hero. I completely adored him. Charli I really liked too. There were moments I was frustrated with her, but once I knew more about her story I could understand all the choices she made.
Shenanigans was a fun sports romance but it was so much more than that. It had a lot of emotion and depth as well. The audiobook was fantastic and I can't wait to read more in this series!
Another fantastic hockey book by Sarina Bowen! I love that we're getting characters from both the male and female professional hockey teams. Shenanigans features Charli and Neil Drake. And it's got a troupe I absolutely love. Wake up in Vegas... married.
Drake and Charli couldn't be more different on paper. He's the heir to literally billions of dollars and she played hockey on a scholarship before she made it to the big leagues. But even still, they click. They like each other. This is very much a friends to lovers story.
Charli is a little freaked when she wakes up married but Drake has reasons, family reasons, to stay married for a while. It was fun watching to see what they would do about the whole situation. Drake was the perfect hero. I completely adored him. Charli I really liked too. There were moments I was frustrated with her, but once I knew more about her story I could understand all the choices she made.
Shenanigans was a fun sports romance but it was so much more than that. It had a lot of emotion and depth as well. The audiobook was fantastic and I can't wait to read more in this series!
Audio book source: Soundwise (ARC)
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators:Jason Clarke & Vanessa Edwin
Narration Rating: 4.5 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance- sports
Length: 10h 27m
June 10, 2022
2,5 🤔🤔⭐️s
A sports romance read where chemistry and connection between Charli and Neil were not delivered efficiently. Depth was lacking.
Charli was an annoying character and tbh frustrated me a lot with her thoughts and attitude.
It was loaded with so much drama and conflicts that minimised my interest. They were either underdeveloped or quickly fixed.
A sports romance read where chemistry and connection between Charli and Neil were not delivered efficiently. Depth was lacking.
Charli was an annoying character and tbh frustrated me a lot with her thoughts and attitude.
It was loaded with so much drama and conflicts that minimised my interest. They were either underdeveloped or quickly fixed.
May 23, 2022
I’m a total sucker for 'we accidentally got married in Vegas' kinds of romances, and that’s exactly what the latest Sarina Bowen book is! Both the main characters are professional hockey players, and after a great win, Neil and Charli party it up in Vegas and get drunk enough to get married.
These two couldn’t be more different. Neil is a billionaire who comes from a disgustingly wealthy family whereas Charli grew up in a much rougher situation and works insanely hard for what she has, because unfortunately, women’s hockey pays pennies compared to men's. Charli wants to get an annulment but Neil wants to see where this can take them, because he’s had a crush on Charli from the moment he met her years ago. They do end up making a deal: Charli will stay as Neil’s wife for the next few months so she can vote on the board he’s on to help his family, and she’ll get a great settlement after the divorce.
The two slowly become friends – Charli has some big trust issues but Neil is sweet and patient enough to sneak under her walls. The romance was adorable! I loved how strong Charli was after all she’d been through and I loved how Neil was such a good, humble guy. It was just a really sweet read.
These two couldn’t be more different. Neil is a billionaire who comes from a disgustingly wealthy family whereas Charli grew up in a much rougher situation and works insanely hard for what she has, because unfortunately, women’s hockey pays pennies compared to men's. Charli wants to get an annulment but Neil wants to see where this can take them, because he’s had a crush on Charli from the moment he met her years ago. They do end up making a deal: Charli will stay as Neil’s wife for the next few months so she can vote on the board he’s on to help his family, and she’ll get a great settlement after the divorce.
The two slowly become friends – Charli has some big trust issues but Neil is sweet and patient enough to sneak under her walls. The romance was adorable! I loved how strong Charli was after all she’d been through and I loved how Neil was such a good, humble guy. It was just a really sweet read.
June 21, 2023
DON'T MISS OUT, Only 99 CENTS!!!
5 No One Does It Better Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Yup, Sarina Bowen did it again. She has created a series, made it addictive, and hasn't "Jumped The Shark" at all. She continues to make each and every entry unique, interesting, flirty, and also brings human issues we all can understand to the forefront. Thank You!
So at the end of the last entry to this series, I had a taste or feeling that Charli and Neil could be the next couple. Each had an instant reaction to the other, each was very different than the other, and each was their own person, doing what they loved even if it was difficult.
Neil looks as if he has a perfect life. He is talented, part of a winning NHL, and happens to be an heir with unlimited financial means. He should be happy and enjoying all the benefits of his life...and he does to a degree, yet his own family thinks of him as a flake and gives all of his accomplishments no credit or value. What he does and loves will never equal coming to work for the family's companies and marrying the appropriate person.
Charli is someone who has had to work for everything she has acquired. It was her early hockey talent that got her the scholarship to the quality private school she went to. Hockey was always key but it did not stop the ugly that comes with being the scholarship kid in class. It was a good thing Charli developed her thick skin and honed her hockey talent.
All of the past brought her to the new Brooklyn Bombshells women’s team. She is skating with a group of women who have all had to deal with the financial hardships of playing hockey, loving it and, willing to make the sacrifices.
So when this women's team wins their first All-Stars competition, Charli decides to let her hair down a bit. It happens to coincide with Neil breaking up once and for all his long-time-on-again-off-again girlfriend. Neil and Charli, friends end up getting very drunk, and naturally, those Las Vegas Cliche things happen.
Nope, no surprise bun in the oven...but there is an ugly ring, legal documents, and a missed team plane ride that must be fixed. Neil and Charli both agree this "mistake" needs to be fixed. The only problem is some drunken actions keep filtering into the minds of both...and man they were really good.
This story had all the trademark moments I love with Sarina Bowen's books. Each person was strong on their own, each had their own issues and needed to deal with them, and when they did deal with what needed to be realized, it was all good.
A winner in my book.
Rookie Move (Brooklyn Bruisers, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Hitter (Brooklyn Bruisers #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Pipe Dreams (Brooklyn Bruisers, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Brooklynaire (Brooklyn, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Overnight Sensation (Brooklyn, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Superfan (Brooklyn, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Moonlighter (Brooklyn #7/Company #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sure Shot (Brooklyn, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bombshells (Brooklyn, #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Shenanigans
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Love Lessons (Brooklyn, #7; Brooklyn Bruisers, #12)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 19. 2021
I Love Sarina Bowen, That's No Secret...
So I Happened To Go to her Website...
And Low And Behold...
Look What I Found...
A New Book Coming March 15, 2022...
Yes, Almost A Year Away...
But In My Search...
Nosy That I Am...
I Found Out A Few Things...
We Have Two Who Are Connected By Hockey...
Talk It, Play It, Love It...
We Also Have A Celebration...
Drunken Times And...
Wait For It...
Wait For It...
Las Vegas And A Wedding...
Oh, This Is Gonna Be Good...
Because Our Fella Is A For Real Billionaire...
And Has The Family From Hell...
Positive Our Hockey Playing Gal Is Up To No Good...
How These Two Being Married And Maybe Happy...
It Could Only Be Nefarious...
Shenanigans-March 15, 2022
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
5 No One Does It Better Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Yup, Sarina Bowen did it again. She has created a series, made it addictive, and hasn't "Jumped The Shark" at all. She continues to make each and every entry unique, interesting, flirty, and also brings human issues we all can understand to the forefront. Thank You!
So at the end of the last entry to this series, I had a taste or feeling that Charli and Neil could be the next couple. Each had an instant reaction to the other, each was very different than the other, and each was their own person, doing what they loved even if it was difficult.
Neil looks as if he has a perfect life. He is talented, part of a winning NHL, and happens to be an heir with unlimited financial means. He should be happy and enjoying all the benefits of his life...and he does to a degree, yet his own family thinks of him as a flake and gives all of his accomplishments no credit or value. What he does and loves will never equal coming to work for the family's companies and marrying the appropriate person.
Charli is someone who has had to work for everything she has acquired. It was her early hockey talent that got her the scholarship to the quality private school she went to. Hockey was always key but it did not stop the ugly that comes with being the scholarship kid in class. It was a good thing Charli developed her thick skin and honed her hockey talent.
All of the past brought her to the new Brooklyn Bombshells women’s team. She is skating with a group of women who have all had to deal with the financial hardships of playing hockey, loving it and, willing to make the sacrifices.
So when this women's team wins their first All-Stars competition, Charli decides to let her hair down a bit. It happens to coincide with Neil breaking up once and for all his long-time-on-again-off-again girlfriend. Neil and Charli, friends end up getting very drunk, and naturally, those Las Vegas Cliche things happen.
Nope, no surprise bun in the oven...but there is an ugly ring, legal documents, and a missed team plane ride that must be fixed. Neil and Charli both agree this "mistake" needs to be fixed. The only problem is some drunken actions keep filtering into the minds of both...and man they were really good.
This story had all the trademark moments I love with Sarina Bowen's books. Each person was strong on their own, each had their own issues and needed to deal with them, and when they did deal with what needed to be realized, it was all good.
A winner in my book.
Rookie Move (Brooklyn Bruisers, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Hitter (Brooklyn Bruisers #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Pipe Dreams (Brooklyn Bruisers, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Brooklynaire (Brooklyn, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Overnight Sensation (Brooklyn, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Superfan (Brooklyn, #6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Moonlighter (Brooklyn #7/Company #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sure Shot (Brooklyn, #8)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bombshells (Brooklyn, #9)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Shenanigans https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Love Lessons (Brooklyn, #7; Brooklyn Bruisers, #12)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 19. 2021
I Love Sarina Bowen, That's No Secret...
So I Happened To Go to her Website...
And Low And Behold...
Look What I Found...
A New Book Coming March 15, 2022...
Yes, Almost A Year Away...
But In My Search...
Nosy That I Am...
I Found Out A Few Things...
We Have Two Who Are Connected By Hockey...
Talk It, Play It, Love It...
We Also Have A Celebration...
Drunken Times And...
Wait For It...
Wait For It...
Las Vegas And A Wedding...
Oh, This Is Gonna Be Good...
Because Our Fella Is A For Real Billionaire...
And Has The Family From Hell...
Positive Our Hockey Playing Gal Is Up To No Good...
How These Two Being Married And Maybe Happy...
It Could Only Be Nefarious...
Shenanigans-March 15, 2022
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
March 15, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I loved this book! Seriously, I have loved all of the books written by Sarina Bowen that I have read so far and I am convinced that she can do no wrong at this point. I loved the drunk accidental wedding set up and it didn’t take long for Charli and Neil to win me over. This book was filled with great characters, fantastic chemistry, and a little humor that came together to steal my heart.
Charli and Neil are both professional hockey players. Charli didn’t grow up with much and has to work very hard just to get by since women hockey players don’t make a lot of money. Neil grew up in a very wealthy family but that doesn’t mean that his family doesn’t have its own challenges. When they wake up in bed together in Vegas, neither is happy to learn that they are legally married. They decide to move in together and stay married just long enough for Charli to play an important role in Neil’s family.
I loved these two together! Charli has never really had anyone looking out for her and is fiercely independent. Neil likes Charli just the way she is and is eager to support her in whatever way he can. The chemistry between these two was off the charts and there was enough heart in the book to keep things very interesting. They both seemed to really come alive in the scenes when they were together and I loved the way that they were able to lift each other up.
Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin did a fantastic job with the narration. I think that both of these narrators did a wonderful job in bringing the characters to life and I love the emotion that they added to their reading. I felt like their voices worked very well together and the transitions between narrators felt very natural. I feel like their performance added to my enjoyment of this wonderful story.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This book is part of Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn series but it can easily be read as a stand-alone. I was eager to see Charli and Neil find their happily ever after and enjoyed every moment of this audiobook.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author/publicist.
Initial Thoughts
I loved this book! Seriously, Sarina Bowen can do no wrong at this point. I loved the drunk accidental wedding set up and it didn't take long for Charli and Neil to steal my heart. I thought that these two were perfect together and understood each other in a way nobody else did. The narrators did an amazing job with the audio. An all-around fantastic listen!
I loved this book! Seriously, I have loved all of the books written by Sarina Bowen that I have read so far and I am convinced that she can do no wrong at this point. I loved the drunk accidental wedding set up and it didn’t take long for Charli and Neil to win me over. This book was filled with great characters, fantastic chemistry, and a little humor that came together to steal my heart.
Charli and Neil are both professional hockey players. Charli didn’t grow up with much and has to work very hard just to get by since women hockey players don’t make a lot of money. Neil grew up in a very wealthy family but that doesn’t mean that his family doesn’t have its own challenges. When they wake up in bed together in Vegas, neither is happy to learn that they are legally married. They decide to move in together and stay married just long enough for Charli to play an important role in Neil’s family.
I loved these two together! Charli has never really had anyone looking out for her and is fiercely independent. Neil likes Charli just the way she is and is eager to support her in whatever way he can. The chemistry between these two was off the charts and there was enough heart in the book to keep things very interesting. They both seemed to really come alive in the scenes when they were together and I loved the way that they were able to lift each other up.
Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin did a fantastic job with the narration. I think that both of these narrators did a wonderful job in bringing the characters to life and I love the emotion that they added to their reading. I felt like their voices worked very well together and the transitions between narrators felt very natural. I feel like their performance added to my enjoyment of this wonderful story.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This book is part of Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn series but it can easily be read as a stand-alone. I was eager to see Charli and Neil find their happily ever after and enjoyed every moment of this audiobook.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author/publicist.
Initial Thoughts
I loved this book! Seriously, Sarina Bowen can do no wrong at this point. I loved the drunk accidental wedding set up and it didn't take long for Charli and Neil to steal my heart. I thought that these two were perfect together and understood each other in a way nobody else did. The narrators did an amazing job with the audio. An all-around fantastic listen!
March 13, 2022
Geez ... Shenanigans...
Wow! This was so much more than an accidental Vegas marriage. Lately, I'm really impressed with an author that can still have me doubting (for 2.5 seconds) that their love story will be happy ever after. I mean seriously, I've been doing the review bit for a wee while now so you'd think I wouldn't fall for the... she's/he's going to make a bad decision. In this case, I was nearly in tears thinking the world was coming to an end. I was convinced there was no coming back. I was certain that bad decisions were about to be made. Then...
Well, my fellow readers, that's all you're going to get out of me. I absolutely LOVED that I could still be surprised. I LOVED all of the twists and turns. I LOVED that our billionaire hero is more than just a hockey player with lots and LOTS of money. I LOVED that our heroine...
Yep, that's where I'm stopping. You see, I'm not always a fan of the heroines I 'meet' because they're not me. In this case, Charli's growth, determination and strength made her someone I could love for the hero. But, I don't want to give you any of her good or bad qualities, because her journey should be experienced with fresh eyes. I LOVED the journey Sarina Bowen took me on and I'm so glad I didn't really know much about Charli before I started.
Do yourself a favour and sit back and enjoy the Shenanigans journey. Take the highs and lows, feel the emotions and hate/love the characters with all of your heart. I love Brooklyn/Brooklyn Bruisers and I hope it goes on FOREVER!
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
Wow! This was so much more than an accidental Vegas marriage. Lately, I'm really impressed with an author that can still have me doubting (for 2.5 seconds) that their love story will be happy ever after. I mean seriously, I've been doing the review bit for a wee while now so you'd think I wouldn't fall for the... she's/he's going to make a bad decision. In this case, I was nearly in tears thinking the world was coming to an end. I was convinced there was no coming back. I was certain that bad decisions were about to be made. Then...
Well, my fellow readers, that's all you're going to get out of me. I absolutely LOVED that I could still be surprised. I LOVED all of the twists and turns. I LOVED that our billionaire hero is more than just a hockey player with lots and LOTS of money. I LOVED that our heroine...
Yep, that's where I'm stopping. You see, I'm not always a fan of the heroines I 'meet' because they're not me. In this case, Charli's growth, determination and strength made her someone I could love for the hero. But, I don't want to give you any of her good or bad qualities, because her journey should be experienced with fresh eyes. I LOVED the journey Sarina Bowen took me on and I'm so glad I didn't really know much about Charli before I started.
Do yourself a favour and sit back and enjoy the Shenanigans journey. Take the highs and lows, feel the emotions and hate/love the characters with all of your heart. I love Brooklyn/Brooklyn Bruisers and I hope it goes on FOREVER!
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
March 15, 2022
Charli + Neil
Both are professional hockey players - on the Brooklyn's women's and men's teams. And both were in Vegas over the weekend for some All Star game and award show.
And now we're married. Whoopsie!
Neil thought Charli was only interested in women!
And Charli thought that this hottest of hot billionaire heirs would never be intersted in her.
But now they're married and trying to get his fancy lawyers to end their marriage.
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN! 😂
═══════════════
Another super adorable + funny hockey love story!
As you might know I'm not really a hockey fan and this is double the hockey again - but I just adore everything Sarina writes, so I had to read it!
And these Brooklyn world books are just so sweet and cute and funny and and Brooklyn-ish and hockey-ish! I just love reading them.
Here we get some tropey moments added to all that hockey. The drunk marriage in Vegas. The billionaire heir. All very sweet and funny and adorable!
I really liked those two - we obviously know that they're perfect for each other ... But of course it takes them a while - or rather it might take Charli a while. She doesn't trust easily. But it's so adorable to watch Neil fight for her.
And it's always great to see all the other guys and girls - former and future couples in this series!
And I soo need to get some Turkish food asap!
That's it - nothing more to say.
Great hockey romance with some very funny and adorable and heartbreaking moments!
And seriously, why hasn't Netflix knocked on Sarina's door yet??
Does it already have an amazingly funny and sexy Hockey Romance series? NO, it does not!
SHENANIGANS was such an adorable + funny + sexy + emotional Hockey Romance! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Cornelius - this one is MINE!
And now a tiny little rant - don't read it if you're easily offended! Or .. just don't read it period - I am so weird with things in books! Not one other person will be bothered by this... 🤣
I was kinda mad at the book on page two already. I know I'm weird, but ugh. Four things already bothered me so much by then that I almost stopped reading.
First. The cover. I don't know what it is. The hairy pit, the creepy porny face-look? No idea - not my thing at all! Then, come one! The accidentally-got-drunk-married-in-Vegas trope? Hm. And next the hockey. I don't like hockey, but I still love reading sports romances - so I read them. But here we again have twice the hockey, because Charli is a player too. But luckily there wasn't too much hockey in the book!
And also ... you can hate me for saying this, but I hate women's sports. No idea why! I know it's so not PC and feminist of me - but I just hate it! I don't watch it. I don't care for it. I'm totally on board with all athletes making the same money - what men make is insane! But I just don't like female sports. Maybe because I HATED gym class in school so much?
And then - it's a bit of a hard limit with my romances... I hate it - HATE it - when my hero or heroine is sick. And I don't care if it's terminal cancer or asthma - sick is bad! We all have enough of that at home - we don't need it in our adorable romances!
💜
💜
March 3, 2022
Shenanigans is a fun addition to the Brooklyn series! It can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone though if you haven't had a chance to read the previous books.
Things to look forward to:
- Drunken Vegas wedding/marriage of convenience
- Billionaire sports romance, reverse grumpy + sunshine, only 1 bed
- Hilarious and well intentioned (but nosy) friend group/teammates
- Spicy, spicy times (what a car ride!)
I both read and listened to this one and I loved the narration by Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin! They are two of my favorite narrators and they nailed Drake and Charli. Their voices complement each other so well. Some very serious topics (please see CW's) are revealed in Charli's past and I was especially impressed by Vanessa Edwin's emotional performance.
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
CW: attempted sexual assault (past), parental abandonment, strained/toxic family relationships, financial and housing insecurity, mention/discussion of type 1 diabetes and management
*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*
Things to look forward to:
- Drunken Vegas wedding/marriage of convenience
- Billionaire sports romance, reverse grumpy + sunshine, only 1 bed
- Hilarious and well intentioned (but nosy) friend group/teammates
- Spicy, spicy times (what a car ride!)
I both read and listened to this one and I loved the narration by Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin! They are two of my favorite narrators and they nailed Drake and Charli. Their voices complement each other so well. Some very serious topics (please see CW's) are revealed in Charli's past and I was especially impressed by Vanessa Edwin's emotional performance.
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
CW: attempted sexual assault (past), parental abandonment, strained/toxic family relationships, financial and housing insecurity, mention/discussion of type 1 diabetes and management
*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*
March 15, 2022
What happens in Vegas … NEVER stays in Vegas!! I said what I said. Fight me. LOL
Sarina Bowen is an author that I can count on making even the most overused trope into something shinny and new! She did that with the twist and turns that Shenanigans took and I’m very grateful for that. She’s a word wizard as far as I’m concerned and any book she writes I would recommend to anyone because she just has this knack of making any subject/theme/trope uniquely hers.
However …
So, I have some minor disappointments with this story :( Actually, there’s only one worth mentioning because it’s the one that lowered my rating. There’s a family conflict in this story directly involving Charli that happens fairly late in the storyline and it just didn’t sit well with me. The plot point is plausible, but it felt thrown in for dramatics and I couldn’t wrap my head around its necessity. I can’t really say much else about it because I don’t want to share any of the storyline specifics and ruin someone’s read but I loath any drama for drama’s sake content in my reads and when it happened, all I could do is roll my eyes and just feel really disappointed. *shrug*
I did like that Sarina chose to make both families dysfunctional in their own right. Polar opposites from each other, but both highly dysfunctional, nonetheless. It added a layer of depth to Charli and Neil that I believed in and was rooting for them to break free of. If that makes any sense lol Especially Neil with regards to his family. There wasn’t a single person on both sides that I really enjoyed as part of the story, and I really wish that all the conflict surrounding their families would not have been part of the story. Neil & Charli as a couple, coming from vastly different worlds made enough of a storyline and conflict that I honestly found all else extremely extra and made me #twitchy *shrug*
I listened to an early copy of this story so I should mention the narration and the excellent job that both Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin did with their performances. They both played well off each other and as for the production, I appreciate the fact that both narrators *read* at the same rate so I didn’t have to constantly change the speed of the audio *slow clap*
Throughout the 10(ish) hours of listening to Shenanigans, I have to say that I enjoyed more of the story than I didn’t. The team comradery for both the Bruisers and the Bombshells was delightful and Charli & Neil did make me swoon just as much as they frustrated me so there’s that lol Overall, this was a good experience for me, and I do like the addition to the series but unfortunately, none of those things were enough to push my rating any higher than 3 stars *shrug*
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonShenanigans
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleShenanigans
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboShenanigans
Nook: https://geni.us/NookShenanigans
Google: https://geni.us/GoogleShenanigans
Audio: https://geni.us/AudibleShenanigans
Sarina Bowen is an author that I can count on making even the most overused trope into something shinny and new! She did that with the twist and turns that Shenanigans took and I’m very grateful for that. She’s a word wizard as far as I’m concerned and any book she writes I would recommend to anyone because she just has this knack of making any subject/theme/trope uniquely hers.
However …
So, I have some minor disappointments with this story :( Actually, there’s only one worth mentioning because it’s the one that lowered my rating. There’s a family conflict in this story directly involving Charli that happens fairly late in the storyline and it just didn’t sit well with me. The plot point is plausible, but it felt thrown in for dramatics and I couldn’t wrap my head around its necessity. I can’t really say much else about it because I don’t want to share any of the storyline specifics and ruin someone’s read but I loath any drama for drama’s sake content in my reads and when it happened, all I could do is roll my eyes and just feel really disappointed. *shrug*
I did like that Sarina chose to make both families dysfunctional in their own right. Polar opposites from each other, but both highly dysfunctional, nonetheless. It added a layer of depth to Charli and Neil that I believed in and was rooting for them to break free of. If that makes any sense lol Especially Neil with regards to his family. There wasn’t a single person on both sides that I really enjoyed as part of the story, and I really wish that all the conflict surrounding their families would not have been part of the story. Neil & Charli as a couple, coming from vastly different worlds made enough of a storyline and conflict that I honestly found all else extremely extra and made me #twitchy *shrug*
I listened to an early copy of this story so I should mention the narration and the excellent job that both Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin did with their performances. They both played well off each other and as for the production, I appreciate the fact that both narrators *read* at the same rate so I didn’t have to constantly change the speed of the audio *slow clap*
Throughout the 10(ish) hours of listening to Shenanigans, I have to say that I enjoyed more of the story than I didn’t. The team comradery for both the Bruisers and the Bombshells was delightful and Charli & Neil did make me swoon just as much as they frustrated me so there’s that lol Overall, this was a good experience for me, and I do like the addition to the series but unfortunately, none of those things were enough to push my rating any higher than 3 stars *shrug*
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonShenanigans
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleShenanigans
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboShenanigans
Nook: https://geni.us/NookShenanigans
Google: https://geni.us/GoogleShenanigans
Audio: https://geni.us/AudibleShenanigans
March 16, 2022
2.5/5 stars, I think
This may be unfair because I read this on what's been a bit of a day for me, but while I liked Neil and really liked Charli and I even liked them together, the story just didn't quite get there for me. I think the problem was there were too many outside issues in addition to the drunken Vegas wedding/pretending to be married for real to give the relationship development the real page space it needed.
Honestly I felt like this was an early draft of the story. There were a few things that stood out to me while I was reading as things that didn't make a lot of sense, and could have been fixed with careful editing. There were also some legal things that require significant handwaving. Some of which are to be expected in a drunken Vegas wedding book. Others of which should not be expected in any book. I was willing to handwave those mostly, but I wouldn't be me if I didn't at least point out that they were there.
Very much hoping we'll get more stories about the Bombshells. Especially Fiona please. I am ready for her story, and hopefully a f/f book in this universe. I assume Vera and Crikey are also going to be a thing based on the epilogue, but I reallllly want Fiona's story.
This may be unfair because I read this on what's been a bit of a day for me, but while I liked Neil and really liked Charli and I even liked them together, the story just didn't quite get there for me. I think the problem was there were too many outside issues in addition to the drunken Vegas wedding/pretending to be married for real to give the relationship development the real page space it needed.
Honestly I felt like this was an early draft of the story. There were a few things that stood out to me while I was reading as things that didn't make a lot of sense, and could have been fixed with careful editing. There were also some legal things that require significant handwaving. Some of which are to be expected in a drunken Vegas wedding book. Others of which should not be expected in any book. I was willing to handwave those mostly, but I wouldn't be me if I didn't at least point out that they were there.
Very much hoping we'll get more stories about the Bombshells. Especially Fiona please. I am ready for her story, and hopefully a f/f book in this universe. I assume Vera and Crikey are also going to be a thing based on the epilogue, but I reallllly want Fiona's story.
March 15, 2022
Wow! This was another great addition to Sarina Bowen's amazing Brooklyn Bruisers series!! I am obsessed with the comraderie, bromances and sisterhood between the Bruisers and the Bombshells. Furthermore, I loved the banter between Charli and Drake and the fun connection they shared.
While this story was a super fun one to read, I will admit that Charli and Drake's story didn't bowl me over as Bowen's books usually do. I didn't feel the usual "Bowen Magic" and the usual chemistry, butterflies and swoonworthy moments between our hero and heroine. Like our leads in the story, I also felt like their beginning had a rocky start. However, like all of Bowen's stories, Shenanigans felt real and was full of genuine characters. I felt Charli and Drake's misgivings and how unsettled they were about their drunken Vegas night and loved how the author showcased how ultimately they were perfect for one another. I couldn't root for them any more at the end! Drake was so charming and sweet and Charli was the breath of fresh air he always needed.
All in all, this was a solid read and as always I look forward to reading more from this author in the future! 4 stars! ~Ratula
***
It always feels so good to get the gang back together. I love the Bruisers so freaking much - and with the Bombshells now in the mix, it's an even sweeter treat. I smiled so big and so often at seeing all of my beloveds back together again, razzing each other and generally acting like fools. This was such a treat!
That said, I have to admit: I struggled with Charli and Neil a bit. While I appreciated that theirs was probably a realistic dynamic, it felt like their connection lacked emotion and depth for me. Charli was incredibly closed off and spent almost the entire book with one foot out the door. I warmed a bit more easily to Neil, but I didn't lose my heart to him quite like I wanted to. They felt more surface level to me, and by the time I turned the last page, I still didn't really know these characters at all.
Don't get me wrong, Shenanigans was an interesting story, and the writing was smart and savvy and there was lots of good stuff tucked within these pages. But the romance didn't capture me. I didn't really understand Neil's draw to Charli. She kept her walls up so fiercely, I couldn't understand why Neil was so devoted to tearing them down. It was definitely missing some of the usual Sarina Bowen magic for me, but I will also admit that my opinion on that may be down to my own lived experiences that caused some visceral reactions to some of Charli's behaviors.
In all, I enjoyed the story. It won't go down as my favorite of the series, but there was still a lot worth reading here. The happy ending delivered on the feels, and there were some really gratifying scenes with Neil's family and the whole storyline revolving around that. But my very favorite scenes were the ones featuring the team dynamics. That's where the heart of this book was for me, and I will never regret spending time with these lovable lugs. ~ Shelly, 3 Stars
While this story was a super fun one to read, I will admit that Charli and Drake's story didn't bowl me over as Bowen's books usually do. I didn't feel the usual "Bowen Magic" and the usual chemistry, butterflies and swoonworthy moments between our hero and heroine. Like our leads in the story, I also felt like their beginning had a rocky start. However, like all of Bowen's stories, Shenanigans felt real and was full of genuine characters. I felt Charli and Drake's misgivings and how unsettled they were about their drunken Vegas night and loved how the author showcased how ultimately they were perfect for one another. I couldn't root for them any more at the end! Drake was so charming and sweet and Charli was the breath of fresh air he always needed.
All in all, this was a solid read and as always I look forward to reading more from this author in the future! 4 stars! ~Ratula
***
It always feels so good to get the gang back together. I love the Bruisers so freaking much - and with the Bombshells now in the mix, it's an even sweeter treat. I smiled so big and so often at seeing all of my beloveds back together again, razzing each other and generally acting like fools. This was such a treat!
That said, I have to admit: I struggled with Charli and Neil a bit. While I appreciated that theirs was probably a realistic dynamic, it felt like their connection lacked emotion and depth for me. Charli was incredibly closed off and spent almost the entire book with one foot out the door. I warmed a bit more easily to Neil, but I didn't lose my heart to him quite like I wanted to. They felt more surface level to me, and by the time I turned the last page, I still didn't really know these characters at all.
Don't get me wrong, Shenanigans was an interesting story, and the writing was smart and savvy and there was lots of good stuff tucked within these pages. But the romance didn't capture me. I didn't really understand Neil's draw to Charli. She kept her walls up so fiercely, I couldn't understand why Neil was so devoted to tearing them down. It was definitely missing some of the usual Sarina Bowen magic for me, but I will also admit that my opinion on that may be down to my own lived experiences that caused some visceral reactions to some of Charli's behaviors.
In all, I enjoyed the story. It won't go down as my favorite of the series, but there was still a lot worth reading here. The happy ending delivered on the feels, and there were some really gratifying scenes with Neil's family and the whole storyline revolving around that. But my very favorite scenes were the ones featuring the team dynamics. That's where the heart of this book was for me, and I will never regret spending time with these lovable lugs. ~ Shelly, 3 Stars
March 17, 2022
I love Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers series, and am thrilled there is now a women’s team, The Brooklyn Bombshells. I even like how she points out the disparity between men’s and women’s sports. The women of the Bombshells all have second jobs in order to support themselves, and don’t live in the Million Dollar Dorm, the expensive condo building many of the Bruisers, including Neil, call home.
I have mixed feelings about Shenanigans, mostly because Charli isn’t an easy heroine to love. In fact, she’s very frustrating. She is strong, opinionated, stubborn, and independent, mostly because she’s had to be all those things in order to survive. Neil is also a little frustrating, he’s super sweet, thoughtful, generous, concerned about the environment, kind of a big goofball, but he doesn’t always say the right thing, which doesn’t work well with a woman like Charli whose defenses are always up, and who never wants to be a burden to anyone.
I enjoyed watching the progression of their relationship from enemies to friends to falling in love and getting their well-deserved HEA, but sometimes I wanted to yell at Charli to stop being so stubborn and to let people who care about her lend a helping hand. We don’t really learn the extent of reasons for her lack of trust until the end, but her reasons are valid.
Navigating their fake, but legal, marriage, his family, her family, their hockey schedules, her stubborn resistance and insistence that nothing in her life would ever go her way had its ups and downs, but, was ultimately, worth the ride.
There were so many funny, sweet, and sexy moments that went a long way toward making me forgive the rough ride Ms. Bowen took us on.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I have mixed feelings about Shenanigans, mostly because Charli isn’t an easy heroine to love. In fact, she’s very frustrating. She is strong, opinionated, stubborn, and independent, mostly because she’s had to be all those things in order to survive. Neil is also a little frustrating, he’s super sweet, thoughtful, generous, concerned about the environment, kind of a big goofball, but he doesn’t always say the right thing, which doesn’t work well with a woman like Charli whose defenses are always up, and who never wants to be a burden to anyone.
I enjoyed watching the progression of their relationship from enemies to friends to falling in love and getting their well-deserved HEA, but sometimes I wanted to yell at Charli to stop being so stubborn and to let people who care about her lend a helping hand. We don’t really learn the extent of reasons for her lack of trust until the end, but her reasons are valid.
Navigating their fake, but legal, marriage, his family, her family, their hockey schedules, her stubborn resistance and insistence that nothing in her life would ever go her way had its ups and downs, but, was ultimately, worth the ride.
There were so many funny, sweet, and sexy moments that went a long way toward making me forgive the rough ride Ms. Bowen took us on.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
April 16, 2022
“Shenanigans” is part of the Brooklyn Bruisers series but can easily be read as a standalone without any trouble.
An unforgettable night in Vegas – until Elvis appears through the blur of a morning hangover. Then things get “All Shook Up” and complicated quickly. So, the newlyweds come up with a plan to make the best out of a bad situation. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” with a book that steals your heart and holds on tight from start to finish -- and this book did just that for me.
He/She hockey players – he’s an ultra-rich heir to billions, along with being a famous star NHL hockey player, and she’s a waitress in a diner barely making ends meet, who plays women’s hockey. She’s head-strong and determined with a big heart who has suffered some hard hits growing up. He’s had eyes on her from the first time they met – but he wasn’t sure she played for his "team."
Neil and Charli were such a lovable match and I loved cheering them on to a happily-ever-after every misstep of the way, through the good and bad times, and in sickness and in health. The banter is outstanding, the chase even better, and the chemistry between the two is sexy and downright dazzling. And that's all the details I'm willing to share. If you love sports-related romances, this is one you won't want to miss.
Undeniably one of the best rom-coms I’ve read in a long time. A sweet – but steamy treat to read. I really enjoyed the playfulness and shenanigans that accompanied the journey. Charming, funny and deeply affecting all at the same time. Extra points for the terrific epilogue. Like Charli proclaimed, “I’m totally sold.”
March 15, 2022
What could go wrong drinking a little more than usual in Las Vegas? You wake up half naked in a bed next to the guy who annoys you more than anyone in the World. This is how Charli and Neil's story begins and what a great journey it was.
Neil and Charli are both hockey players and that is the only thing they have in common. They come from different worlds, Neil has always had a comfortable life, while Charli had always fought to make ends. Neil is easygoing and Charli is uptight, their bantering is epic and their chemistry is steamy.
I liked the main characters, but Neil a little more until I've known Charli better, she's had a troubled youth and that explain why she is so distrusty. Their story is enjoyable, I grew attached to them and I wished for their happily ever after.
I look forward to reading more of Sarina Bowen's works and to see these character and the Brooklyn men and women teams again.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
March 20, 2022
“…when you break through her defenses, there’s nothing better than her smile or the sound of her quick laughter when a joke lands.”
Sarina Bowen never fails in delivering a wonderfully sexy sports romance, but with Shenanigans, it’s a lot more than that. Charli and Neil’s story had so much heart, not to mention, a gutsy heroine and a sweet down-to-earth billionaire hockey player. We were sold!
‘No matter how badly I’ll regret this later. I’ll never forget the expression he’s wearing right now. Like he can barely stand how lucky he is.’
A boozy night in Vegas sees Charlotte ‘Charli’ Higgins, a hockey player with the Bombshells, all-girl Hockey Franchise, waking up hungover and married to hot, rich Hockey player Cornelius Harmon Drake II, aka Neil, who plays for the Brooklyn Bruisers Hockey team. These two couldn’t be in the same room as each other without verbally sparring, so how did this happen, and what are they to do?
Neil realises this could work to his advantage (business-wise) and asks Charli to fake a marriage so as to gain a voting advantage in his family affairs. Easy right? Well, there is definitely some steamy hot chemistry between these two, even if they are like chalk and cheese. Neil is pretty easy going, takes life as it comes (mind you, it’s pretty easy when you have talent, looks, and money!) whilst Charli is testy and crotchety with Neil (and others) at every opportunity. But Neil loves her tenacity!
“Nothing about you is easy. Not one thing. But I like it that way.”
Whilst he may be rich, he’s not affected by it. He’s a down-to-earth guy who loves his hockey, his mates and has a thing for Charli. Charli begins to see the guy beneath the abs, good looks, and tattoos. What happens when their fake marriage collides with Charli’s past?
“Aren’t you a little curious, though? About how we’d be together?”
“Of course, I am. But it’s the same kind of curiosity I feel about car chases in movies. It’s dangerous, and I don’t need to try it to know it’s a bad idea.”
We loved this book. There was great banter. Sometimes tense, sometimes fun, and sometimes very, very steamy banter! Neil was amazing! What a guy – every girl would love a Neil in their life. This is a story about friendship, knowing your worth, and living without regrets, which reminds us to seize the day and open our hearts. Another fabulous addition to our Sarina Bowen collection!
“When you smile at me, it’s all worth it. Every fucking thing.”
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March 15, 2022
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
The drunk Vegas wedding trope has been done many times before, that's true. But with this book Sarina Bowen came into it and added her own little splash of uniqueness and made the trope feel brand new. The characters were so cute together with their banter and I really loved their differences and how they were pointed out. Charli was stubborn and wasn't someone that just freely gave over the reins, while Neil was used to getting his way and not having women argue with him. Those differences made for some great tension and had me rooting for them to work things out.
Overall, this is a must read. I would definitely recommend reading the previous book first though to really understand these characters.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
The drunk Vegas wedding trope has been done many times before, that's true. But with this book Sarina Bowen came into it and added her own little splash of uniqueness and made the trope feel brand new. The characters were so cute together with their banter and I really loved their differences and how they were pointed out. Charli was stubborn and wasn't someone that just freely gave over the reins, while Neil was used to getting his way and not having women argue with him. Those differences made for some great tension and had me rooting for them to work things out.
Overall, this is a must read. I would definitely recommend reading the previous book first though to really understand these characters.
March 20, 2022
I'm on a hot streak with books I've loved. This is one of them.
Every woman deserves a Neil Drake in their life. He is the complete package.
I've never rooted so hard for a heroine to get her fairy tale ending like I rooted for Charli. The girl had some serious trust issues and I did not blame her. Thank god she had a guy who would always have her back.
I enjoyed everything about this book. The storytelling (as always) is first rate. The chemistry between Neil and Charli was white hot. And a guy who cooks for you...*sigh*... I really loved this couple.
And so what if the cover is all wrong for Neil (sorry, that's not my idea of Neil) , and so what if its not a 'foul' (that's basketball)--it's called a 'penalty'...those little things didn't diminish my love for this story.
So well done SB. I knocked this one out in one day, and it was worth it!
5 stars
Every woman deserves a Neil Drake in their life. He is the complete package.
I've never rooted so hard for a heroine to get her fairy tale ending like I rooted for Charli. The girl had some serious trust issues and I did not blame her. Thank god she had a guy who would always have her back.
I enjoyed everything about this book. The storytelling (as always) is first rate. The chemistry between Neil and Charli was white hot. And a guy who cooks for you...*sigh*... I really loved this couple.
And so what if the cover is all wrong for Neil (sorry, that's not my idea of Neil) , and so what if its not a 'foul' (that's basketball)--it's called a 'penalty'...those little things didn't diminish my love for this story.
So well done SB. I knocked this one out in one day, and it was worth it!
5 stars
March 5, 2022
He's a hot billionaire hockey player AND super sweet? Too good to be true! I found myself really loving the hero at the heart of this Vegas wedding romance. While our heroine struggles with self-doubt and a lack of trust, this hero rises to the occasion and shows that he's worth fighting for. I'm still pretty new to this series of interconnected standalones and I thought Bombshells was disappointing, so I went into this with low expectations - and was definitely pleasantly surprised. I loved how these two start as reluctant friends before transitioning into more, and I loved how steadfast our hero is. Neither one wanted this marriage (sober, anyways), but they make it work and grow along the way. It's a slow burn to SIZZLE romance with some great heat in the back half, and I had no trouble enjoying this from start to finish.
The story follows Neil and Charli, two professional hockey players who get hitched in Vegas. Drunkenly, very drunkenly. Their relationship started off a little rocky, and adding rings to the mix has only made things exceedingly more complicated. Neil is not just a pro hockey player, he also comes from a very wealthy family - and they didn't exactly plan ahead and get a prenup. That causes plenty of trouble for the reluctant couple, especially since Charli's past makes her wary of the wealthy. Neither one is enthusiastic about the marriage, but they agree to present a united front against Neil's family... and soon find themselves falling. But starting a relationship when the divorce papers are already drawn up means this couple is likely to stumble along the way.
This had light and sexy vibes throughout, with just enough angst to keep things interesting. Neil never considered Charli a romantic option before their night in Vegas - she said she doesn't date guys - but Charli already had her guard up against the charming player. She's the kind of heroine who fights her feelings the whole way through, and it probably would've been too much if Neil hadn't been such a great guy. I loved how determined he was to make things work, and he was a steady rock perfectly complementing Charli's stormy nature. They certainly had chemistry, and the first steamy scene cemented that connection (and it was super sexy). This was a low 5/solid 4-star read for me the whole way though, with only some uneven pacing towards the end threatening that rating. Overall, a very solid read, and it's got me excited for more from the author. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this Vegas wedding romance.
Audio note: The audio was EXCELLENT! Probably one of the things that made this so bingeable for me, honestly. It's got two of my favorite narrators - Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin - whose vocal performances made this an enjoyable, easy listen. It's dual narration, and both of them are great at what they do. Clarke's gravelly voice gets me every time, and Edwin infuses plenty of emotion into her work as well. The story lends itself perfectly to a workday listen - the slow burn means there's not a lot of heat in the first half, and the overall vibe is easygoing enough to keep things light. There are a few steamy scenes in the back half, but it's definitely not the main focus of the story. The runtime is a little over 10 hours, so if you speed things up then you'll have no trouble finishing it in a day. Overall, this is an ideal audio experience; only duet narration could've been better.
The story follows Neil and Charli, two professional hockey players who get hitched in Vegas. Drunkenly, very drunkenly. Their relationship started off a little rocky, and adding rings to the mix has only made things exceedingly more complicated. Neil is not just a pro hockey player, he also comes from a very wealthy family - and they didn't exactly plan ahead and get a prenup. That causes plenty of trouble for the reluctant couple, especially since Charli's past makes her wary of the wealthy. Neither one is enthusiastic about the marriage, but they agree to present a united front against Neil's family... and soon find themselves falling. But starting a relationship when the divorce papers are already drawn up means this couple is likely to stumble along the way.
This had light and sexy vibes throughout, with just enough angst to keep things interesting. Neil never considered Charli a romantic option before their night in Vegas - she said she doesn't date guys - but Charli already had her guard up against the charming player. She's the kind of heroine who fights her feelings the whole way through, and it probably would've been too much if Neil hadn't been such a great guy. I loved how determined he was to make things work, and he was a steady rock perfectly complementing Charli's stormy nature. They certainly had chemistry, and the first steamy scene cemented that connection (and it was super sexy). This was a low 5/solid 4-star read for me the whole way though, with only some uneven pacing towards the end threatening that rating. Overall, a very solid read, and it's got me excited for more from the author. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this Vegas wedding romance.
Audio note: The audio was EXCELLENT! Probably one of the things that made this so bingeable for me, honestly. It's got two of my favorite narrators - Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin - whose vocal performances made this an enjoyable, easy listen. It's dual narration, and both of them are great at what they do. Clarke's gravelly voice gets me every time, and Edwin infuses plenty of emotion into her work as well. The story lends itself perfectly to a workday listen - the slow burn means there's not a lot of heat in the first half, and the overall vibe is easygoing enough to keep things light. There are a few steamy scenes in the back half, but it's definitely not the main focus of the story. The runtime is a little over 10 hours, so if you speed things up then you'll have no trouble finishing it in a day. Overall, this is an ideal audio experience; only duet narration could've been better.
December 13, 2024
Shenanigans is part of the Brooklyn Bruisers series, but can definitely be read as a standalone. I recommend reading all the books in this series because they are all wonderful and amazing, but it isn’t necessary.
Sarina Bowen is the Queen of hockey romance in capital letters. She keeps surprising me with her talent, but at the same time it doesn’t surprise me at all because she’s that good. She definitely writes the best book boyfriends. She must be writing them with her magic wand.
I loved everything about Shenanigans. It’s a hockey romance that combines great hockey with a few of my favorite tropes. You have an accidental Vegas wedding turned marriage of convenience slash fake relationship, opposites attract, grumpy vs. sunshine, and only one bed. Oh, and did I mention all the hockey? Because both of them are hockey players!
I loved Charli and Neil. They are perfect for each other despite the obvious differences between them. Or maybe because of them. But they have a few things in common besides their love for hockey that will surprise them. They have such great chemistry, and the banter between them is hilarious. The progression of their relationship is so on point. There’s attraction, longing, so much heat, and intimacy. Their connection is so strong, and it gets even stronger as they get to know each other better.
Charli is fierce and independent, and doesn’t trust easily. She’s had a very tough life. She’s very angry and closed off, but as you get to know her you get to understand her reasons. She’s just protecting herself because she’s not willing to get hurt. Until she finds herself married to the one guy capable of breaking down those walls.
Neil Drake is the sweetest guy. He’s definitely book boyfriend material. And not because he’s a billionaire heir and a fantastic hockey player. He’s fun, witty, hot as sin, and charming. I don’t have enough adjectives to describe just how wonderful he is. And he’s had a crush on Charli since they met, but wasn’t aware she liked guys that way. He didn’t know he had a shot.
Shenanigans is such a great story. It’s witty and fun and hilarious, but it also has so much depth. The story has a few heartbreaking moments, and it deals with a few difficult topics, like diabetes and neglect, but in a very balanced way. It’s very well written, the pace is perfect, and the story is compelling. It gave me all the feels and I couldn’t put it down.
Shenanigans is the kind of book that makes you laugh and cry at the same time, Sarina Bowen’s trademark. It’s the kind of book you want to hug and makes you smile. And it is the kind of book you want to read over and over again. I had a great time reading it and I highly recommend it.
Sarina Bowen is the Queen of hockey romance in capital letters. She keeps surprising me with her talent, but at the same time it doesn’t surprise me at all because she’s that good. She definitely writes the best book boyfriends. She must be writing them with her magic wand.
I loved everything about Shenanigans. It’s a hockey romance that combines great hockey with a few of my favorite tropes. You have an accidental Vegas wedding turned marriage of convenience slash fake relationship, opposites attract, grumpy vs. sunshine, and only one bed. Oh, and did I mention all the hockey? Because both of them are hockey players!
I loved Charli and Neil. They are perfect for each other despite the obvious differences between them. Or maybe because of them. But they have a few things in common besides their love for hockey that will surprise them. They have such great chemistry, and the banter between them is hilarious. The progression of their relationship is so on point. There’s attraction, longing, so much heat, and intimacy. Their connection is so strong, and it gets even stronger as they get to know each other better.
Charli is fierce and independent, and doesn’t trust easily. She’s had a very tough life. She’s very angry and closed off, but as you get to know her you get to understand her reasons. She’s just protecting herself because she’s not willing to get hurt. Until she finds herself married to the one guy capable of breaking down those walls.
Neil Drake is the sweetest guy. He’s definitely book boyfriend material. And not because he’s a billionaire heir and a fantastic hockey player. He’s fun, witty, hot as sin, and charming. I don’t have enough adjectives to describe just how wonderful he is. And he’s had a crush on Charli since they met, but wasn’t aware she liked guys that way. He didn’t know he had a shot.
Shenanigans is such a great story. It’s witty and fun and hilarious, but it also has so much depth. The story has a few heartbreaking moments, and it deals with a few difficult topics, like diabetes and neglect, but in a very balanced way. It’s very well written, the pace is perfect, and the story is compelling. It gave me all the feels and I couldn’t put it down.
Shenanigans is the kind of book that makes you laugh and cry at the same time, Sarina Bowen’s trademark. It’s the kind of book you want to hug and makes you smile. And it is the kind of book you want to read over and over again. I had a great time reading it and I highly recommend it.
March 16, 2022
Ever since I read Bombshells I was hoping for a Charli and Neil book! This is Sarina Bowen's latest book in the Brooklyn saga, and once again crosses over between the Bruisers and the Bombshells. I absolutely love that the lady hockey players, who are pretty amazing I might add, are getting stories as well. I love the whole dynamic between them, and it's great to also revisit past Brookly Bruisers couples. Sarina just never disappoints, she just always brings the right amount of drama, romance and spice and you can't help but just love her stories.
I completely loved this story, it was so much more than an oops we drunk-married in Vegas and now we fall in love book. I loved both main characters so much. I loved Charli's energy and ball-busting attitude from the get go. Neil has got to be one of the sweetest, swooniest heroes Sarina has written. He was so likeable and endearing, you can't read this book and not fall in love with him. And Charli, I loved her so much, her evolution and growth is just great in this book. I loved their relationship, the way they cared about each other and how everything went down. I love that in her stories, Sarina always tackles some heavy themes in the most tactful way. In this case, both main characters had family drama, and some of it was pretty ugly. I love how Neil and Charli tackled everything and came on top.
Let's talk about the audiobook. Both Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin are simply amazing. Let's be honest, I can hear Jason Clarke narrate anything, all day, everyday, he's just that amazing. And Vanessa, she's definitely in my top female narrators. And in this book, they both were absolute perfection.
I completely loved this story, it was so much more than an oops we drunk-married in Vegas and now we fall in love book. I loved both main characters so much. I loved Charli's energy and ball-busting attitude from the get go. Neil has got to be one of the sweetest, swooniest heroes Sarina has written. He was so likeable and endearing, you can't read this book and not fall in love with him. And Charli, I loved her so much, her evolution and growth is just great in this book. I loved their relationship, the way they cared about each other and how everything went down. I love that in her stories, Sarina always tackles some heavy themes in the most tactful way. In this case, both main characters had family drama, and some of it was pretty ugly. I love how Neil and Charli tackled everything and came on top.
Let's talk about the audiobook. Both Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin are simply amazing. Let's be honest, I can hear Jason Clarke narrate anything, all day, everyday, he's just that amazing. And Vanessa, she's definitely in my top female narrators. And in this book, they both were absolute perfection.
March 21, 2022
Hmm.
If there's one thing about Bowen it's that her books consistently read well even when they're a bit of a mess. That is, there's chemistry and engaging prose regardless of other things happening. Unfortunately this one suffered from wayyyy too many other things going on.
I genuinely liked Charli and Neil, even liked them together (though at times their actual pet names for each rang a little too juvenile. Of course, this is also me forgetting at times that they're in their 20s and not mid-30s so.).
The real issue was all the other issues and just how mired they became in them the further the book moved on. Neil's complicated relationship with his family was never fully addressed and too easily solved; the revelation of Charli's home life, though hinted at, came too late; and then there was her pure evil cousins. It was Too Much.
I'm no lawyer, but a lot of the stuff around the divorce proceedings seemed a little contrived. Not to mention the fact that
I was so into this set up, but the follow through was completely meh.
If there's one thing about Bowen it's that her books consistently read well even when they're a bit of a mess. That is, there's chemistry and engaging prose regardless of other things happening. Unfortunately this one suffered from wayyyy too many other things going on.
I genuinely liked Charli and Neil, even liked them together (though at times their actual pet names for each rang a little too juvenile. Of course, this is also me forgetting at times that they're in their 20s and not mid-30s so.).
The real issue was all the other issues and just how mired they became in them the further the book moved on. Neil's complicated relationship with his family was never fully addressed and too easily solved; the revelation of Charli's home life, though hinted at, came too late; and then there was her pure evil cousins. It was Too Much.
I'm no lawyer, but a lot of the stuff around the divorce proceedings seemed a little contrived. Not to mention the fact that
I was so into this set up, but the follow through was completely meh.
March 16, 2022
My review: I really loved this story of Charli and Neil. This starts off really strong.
Oh, and Vegas is the opening scene!
I really love these two, even though they're so different.
Charli is on the women's hockey team. She's been so closed off to finding love or even much of her social life.
Neil is a sweetheart and really wants to find his own way too. Neil has a lot of financial advantages but he's looking for his own worth.
They're friends and have some benefits -they have to figure out how far to take it.
What happens in Vegas- has some consequences!
Great chemistry & the steam is fantastic!
The supporting cast has been in the previous hockey books & the spin offs.
I love this story and would love to read it all over again!
++++++++++++++++++
Look at this cover! Releasing MARCH 15, 2022
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonShenanigans
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleShenanigans
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboShenanigans
Nook: https://geni.us/NookShenanigans
Oh, and Vegas is the opening scene!
I really love these two, even though they're so different.
Charli is on the women's hockey team. She's been so closed off to finding love or even much of her social life.
Neil is a sweetheart and really wants to find his own way too. Neil has a lot of financial advantages but he's looking for his own worth.
They're friends and have some benefits -they have to figure out how far to take it.
What happens in Vegas- has some consequences!
Great chemistry & the steam is fantastic!
The supporting cast has been in the previous hockey books & the spin offs.
I love this story and would love to read it all over again!
++++++++++++++++++
Look at this cover! Releasing MARCH 15, 2022
Amazon: https://geni.us/AmazonShenanigans
Apple: https://geni.us/AppleShenanigans
Kobo: https://geni.us/KoboShenanigans
Nook: https://geni.us/NookShenanigans
March 15, 2022
RELEASE DAY IS HERE!!!!!
---
I have been salivating over this book now since I finished the last page of Bombshells. The dynamic that Charli and Neil have had since their very first meeting TOPPED with a drunken marriage in Vegas? Perfection. Sign me the hell up.
What I had not anticipated exactly was how fucking dreamy Cornelius Drake III was. What a King. And Charli? I knew there was always going to be more to peel back from that gruff and tough outer layer that no one has yet been able to see behind and I couldn't wait to find out what that "more" was.
One of the real kickers in their relationship, too, was their financial situations. The one thing that is consistently known to cause the most stress in a person's life and relationships of all kinds. Neil was an ACTUAL billionaire while Charli was used to just barely scraping by her entire life. Pile on a family of old money who is used to burying "embarrassing" or "unsavory" headline producing incidents and we've got some good fuel for the angst fire part of this story. But one thing you need to know is that Neil is generous. That man. He may use his billionaire powers to get what he wants sometimes but he's also a guy who was refusing to get new furniture even though the stuff he currently owned was unbearable to sit on, because he's a person who hates waste and wants to try to minimize it as much as he can (which you know, since he actually has the resources to help make those kinds of changes in the world, I'm sure he'll do everything in his power to actually achieve it).
ANYWAY what I'm trying to say is that Neil Drake is a stand up guy. The things he does to win over Charli in this book....and even then some of the things she does for him..made my heart ache in the best way. Charli has lived a pretty hard life and has been surrounded by some pretty terrible people so the fact that Neil was able to worm his way into her softer interior until he was able to burrow his way into her heart should be pretty telling. I'm over here PRAYING for a Vera book because I just can't be done with the Bruisers or Bombshells yet--I really can't.
P.s. The scene where the guys are watching the Bombshells' game is my favorite.
Huge thanks to Tuxbury Publishing LLC for allowing me to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!♥
For more of my reviews, please visit:
---
I have been salivating over this book now since I finished the last page of Bombshells. The dynamic that Charli and Neil have had since their very first meeting TOPPED with a drunken marriage in Vegas? Perfection. Sign me the hell up.
What I had not anticipated exactly was how fucking dreamy Cornelius Drake III was. What a King. And Charli? I knew there was always going to be more to peel back from that gruff and tough outer layer that no one has yet been able to see behind and I couldn't wait to find out what that "more" was.
One of the real kickers in their relationship, too, was their financial situations. The one thing that is consistently known to cause the most stress in a person's life and relationships of all kinds. Neil was an ACTUAL billionaire while Charli was used to just barely scraping by her entire life. Pile on a family of old money who is used to burying "embarrassing" or "unsavory" headline producing incidents and we've got some good fuel for the angst fire part of this story. But one thing you need to know is that Neil is generous. That man. He may use his billionaire powers to get what he wants sometimes but he's also a guy who was refusing to get new furniture even though the stuff he currently owned was unbearable to sit on, because he's a person who hates waste and wants to try to minimize it as much as he can (which you know, since he actually has the resources to help make those kinds of changes in the world, I'm sure he'll do everything in his power to actually achieve it).
ANYWAY what I'm trying to say is that Neil Drake is a stand up guy. The things he does to win over Charli in this book....and even then some of the things she does for him..made my heart ache in the best way. Charli has lived a pretty hard life and has been surrounded by some pretty terrible people so the fact that Neil was able to worm his way into her softer interior until he was able to burrow his way into her heart should be pretty telling. I'm over here PRAYING for a Vera book because I just can't be done with the Bruisers or Bombshells yet--I really can't.
P.s. The scene where the guys are watching the Bombshells' game is my favorite.
Huge thanks to Tuxbury Publishing LLC for allowing me to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!♥
For more of my reviews, please visit:
March 15, 2022
Sarina Bowen stories always bring a smile to my face- so much charm and swoon and sizzle. A Vegas quickie- it’s always a fun start to a story, with Neile and Charli, two hockey players, find themselves unexpectedly married thanks to some drunken, well…shenanigans. It’s a bumpy beginning to their romance, and Charli is closed off pretty tight and Neil comes from a wealthy family, which makes both of them hold back on the trust. There’s a lot of reluctance between them, and while I enjoyed them, I didn’t quite get that usually Bowen butterfly factor from their chemistry- it felt a bit surface. Neil brings out some charm, and despite Charli’s hesitancy, the tone stays pretty light hearted throughout Overall, an entertaining and sexy read, even if this couple did sparkle as brightly as some other Bowen favorites.
March 16, 2022
Think all billionaires in romance are serious and stuffy?
Well, think again because Cornelius Drake the Third is here to break the stereotype.
He’s a hockey player who just so happens to have family money, is environmentally conscious, and doesn’t let his family drama interfere with his career.
Does he wield the power his money provides when necessary? Sure, but only when there’s an excellent reason. In other words, he’s a veritable Bruce Wayne.
On the other hand, Charli is the opposite of Drake in just about every way: born on the wrong side of the tracks, passed around to whichever family member would have her, prep school scholarship recipient. She’s barely scraping by, and guys like Neil embody everything wrong with her world.
But, she’s a genuinely lovely and caring person who uses her attitude as a shield. Thankfully, Neil is a patient sweetheart who sees through it, and that makes him one of my favorite Bruisers because of it.
When one night of celebrating in Vegas turns into a drunken wedding, both of their lives are turned upside down. However, their accidental wedding turns into a mutually beneficial marriage of convenience—what they didn’t expect was to actually fall for each other in the process.
Sports Romance with Heart
I love Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers because, despite the razzing, the guys (and their ladies) are genuinely a found family. They live in the same complex, they train and travel together, and best of all, they have each other’s backs when needed.
From Neil’s type 1 diabetes to Charli’s troubled past, Bowen handles each situation with care and compassion. She makes you care about these characters and root for their happily ever after.
Hockey Romance that Sounds Great on Audio!
Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin bring Neil and Charli to life and do a stellar job of narrating the audiobook. Their performances only enhanced my love for the characters and I enjoyed every minute of the audiobook.
Highly recommend!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
Well, think again because Cornelius Drake the Third is here to break the stereotype.
He’s a hockey player who just so happens to have family money, is environmentally conscious, and doesn’t let his family drama interfere with his career.
Does he wield the power his money provides when necessary? Sure, but only when there’s an excellent reason. In other words, he’s a veritable Bruce Wayne.
On the other hand, Charli is the opposite of Drake in just about every way: born on the wrong side of the tracks, passed around to whichever family member would have her, prep school scholarship recipient. She’s barely scraping by, and guys like Neil embody everything wrong with her world.
But, she’s a genuinely lovely and caring person who uses her attitude as a shield. Thankfully, Neil is a patient sweetheart who sees through it, and that makes him one of my favorite Bruisers because of it.
When one night of celebrating in Vegas turns into a drunken wedding, both of their lives are turned upside down. However, their accidental wedding turns into a mutually beneficial marriage of convenience—what they didn’t expect was to actually fall for each other in the process.
Sports Romance with Heart
I love Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers because, despite the razzing, the guys (and their ladies) are genuinely a found family. They live in the same complex, they train and travel together, and best of all, they have each other’s backs when needed.
From Neil’s type 1 diabetes to Charli’s troubled past, Bowen handles each situation with care and compassion. She makes you care about these characters and root for their happily ever after.
Hockey Romance that Sounds Great on Audio!
Jason Clarke and Vanessa Edwin bring Neil and Charli to life and do a stellar job of narrating the audiobook. Their performances only enhanced my love for the characters and I enjoyed every minute of the audiobook.
Highly recommend!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
z-dnf
March 24, 2022this is the first time i've DNF'd a Sarina Bowen, which I suppose had to happen eventually, but it feels notable...
March 1, 2022
ARC received for an honest review
First of all, is it just me or does that cover give of serious Chris Pine vibes?
And secondly, who is the shenanigator in this instance? Whiskey and Vegas can always end up in a mess, and that is where Neil and Charli end up.
I love that Charli is a kick-ass woman who doesn't want or need anybody - or does she? I hate that people in her life have let her down. However she survives and gets sh!t done.
Neil isn't our usual billionaire heir, and I kinda sorta really love him for that. And I love the way he loves our girl.
And don't get me started on those meddling friends, who are just. freaking. awesome! They made me laugh as much as they frustrated Neil and Charli. I mean, they could see what we all could see, so good on them for pushing them to admit their feelings.
Gah, I just adored this story, and can't wait for more of all these guys and gals in the future.
First of all, is it just me or does that cover give of serious Chris Pine vibes?
And secondly, who is the shenanigator in this instance? Whiskey and Vegas can always end up in a mess, and that is where Neil and Charli end up.
I love that Charli is a kick-ass woman who doesn't want or need anybody - or does she? I hate that people in her life have let her down. However she survives and gets sh!t done.
Neil isn't our usual billionaire heir, and I kinda sorta really love him for that. And I love the way he loves our girl.
And don't get me started on those meddling friends, who are just. freaking. awesome! They made me laugh as much as they frustrated Neil and Charli. I mean, they could see what we all could see, so good on them for pushing them to admit their feelings.
Gah, I just adored this story, and can't wait for more of all these guys and gals in the future.
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