Chips & Checks

by Colleen Charles

I had three rules. She shattered them all… and made me beg for more.

No sleepovers.
No pet names.
No meeting friends or family.

That’s how I survive — keep it casual, keep my heart intact.

Then Dr. Violet Sawyer walks into my life — Venom’s head injury specialist, daughter of a front-office big shot, and the only woman who makes me want to burn my own rulebook.

She needs protection from a teammate who won’t take no for an answer. The solution? Pretend to be her boyfriend. Keep her close. Make it look real.

Problem is… it feels real.

She stitches me up on the ice and tears down my walls off it. Before I know it, Violet’s in my bed, in my head, wrecking every boundary I’ve ever had. And I can’t decide if I want to stop her… or beg her for more.

This isn’t just a game anymore.

Violet’s the win I can’t afford to lose… and I’ll take the penalty if it means I get to keep her.

Genres: Hockey, Contemporary, Sports, Sports Romance

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2025

About the author

After 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Rating: 5 ⭐️

🫧 Vibes: Next Gen Las Vegas Venom, hockey romance, found family

📚 Would I recommend? ABSOLUTELY!

💬 My overall thoughts:

- Bowen Murphy, newly signed Winger with the Vegas Venom has a written list on non-negotiable rules. No sleepovers, no snuggling, a LOT of no’s! When he meets Vi at The Puck Drop they hit it off and have steamy one night together.

- It’s hilarious when he mentions to his new teammates that he meet a girl the night before and regrets that he didn’t get her number or last name. When he mentions her name was Vi he doesn’t think anything of his teammates various reactions when they suspect Vi is their Vi (childhood friend and sister, and team colleague).

- Bowen is super protective of Vi when he realizes one of his teammates is sexually harassing her. He agrees to be her fake boyfriend, but there really ain’t much fake about their relationship.

This book has a great combination of heat, heart & humor! Vi is strong and independent, and Bowen has got WORK to do to overcome his list of rules…and he’s up for the challenge!

I really enjoyed this book. The story captured and kept my attention well. The emotions flow freely, and the sparks fly between the characters. You can expect plenty of feels, swoon and emotion.

I strongly recommend reading the prior books in the Vegas Venom series and the Next Gen series to get the most enjoyment out of the inside jokes and history of the characters and their parents’ histories. It can be read as a standalone, but you’ll miss some of the fun insider’s perspective.

I received an advance review copy from BookSprout for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Claire RC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story featuring Bowen and Vi. When they first meet up neither of them know who each other is, they have a steaming hot one night stand, thinking that they’d never see each other again, fate has other ideas though. Bowen is the teams latest signing and Vi just happens to be the team head injury specialist. The attraction between them is tenable but Vi is resistant. Things come to a bit of a head when Chad starts to hit on her in a nasty type of way, Bowen comes to her rescue. Their relationship starts slowly but hears enough to melt the ice on the rink. I liked how this story progressed, how the front office actually supported Vi and how the team rallied round both Vi and Bowen. All in all, a very satisfying story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Bowen met Vi the attraction between them was undeniable however he never expected to see her again let alone find out that not only is connected to the hockey team he is now playing with but works there as well. When he finds out that she needs help with one of his teammates he doesn’t hesitate to intervene however he soon realizes that when it comes to his guardrails when it comes to women no longer apply.

Vi never expected to see Bowen again let again that he would be a player for the team that she provides medical assistance to. She would like to keep their relationship strictly professional however another teammate makes that difficult and the rules of the game have changed.

The banter is entertaining, the chemistry is intense, and they are surrounded by a great group of families, friends and teammates that add extra depth to the story.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the connection and chemistry between Bowen and Vi, that they couldn't forget or stay away from each other and how in sync they could be without even trying. Seeing Bowen change during this, one broken rule at a time was really good to read, how he turned to his Dad for support and even though he was scared, he still carried on that journey falling for Vi. Seeing him ditch who he was, understanding himself better and doing all that he could to protect his girl was sweet, lovely and swoon worthy. Both he and Vi had great support around them and the ups and down of their story made it a good read for me, even though this is the first book from this series that I have read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bowen strutted in with his dumb list of rules and I was ready to roll my eyes, but Violet bulldozed through them like it was nothing. Their first hookup had that chaotic energy of two people thinking they’ll never see each other again, which made it even funnier when fate shoved them back together. The pacing snapped right along, no dragging, and the fake dating angle didn’t feel forced because their chemistry was already sparking. I actually liked how the team rallied around Violet when things got messy, it gave the story some backbone instead of just spice. Colleen Charles writes banter that feels fast, sharp, and just slightly unhinged, which matched Bowen’s slow crumble into an actual relationship.

[Christie A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet and Bowen’s story is one of the favourite I’ve read to date this year. They were all chemistry, sparks and sizzle from the moment they met - and I couldn’t get enough of them!

Bowen is so fiercely protective, letting down his guard and old ways as Violet creeps further into his mind, and heart. Violet is an independent and driven young woman who falls for Bowen without truly realising it at the time. Loved the journey they went on to discover their love.

Great banter, with a serious storyline woven in brilliantly. Bring on all the Huggles!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TELA666 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bowen & Vi
4.5 stars
I wasn't expecting what Vi faced in this book but it was handled well. There were comments from Dante that are unacceptable but in reality would be likely from a person like he is written to be.
Bowen breaks everyone of his 'rules' that he shared with Vi as he falls hard & fast, though it takes a while for him to accept that fact. He is protective but tries to do so without overstepping on Vi's abilities & boundaries.
I really liked their fun & playful nature, especially how Bowen provides a safe space for Vi to explore. This added contrast & balance to the other situation.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Violet and Bowen’s story! They were great together! This story has drama, angst, action, comedy and romance. I loved watching Bowen, who didn’t do relationships, change into wanting one with Violet. Imagine having a one night stand and then finding out she works for the team you just joined. What happens next is very entertaining story! As they get closer, he helps her with another player that won’t take no for an answer. Will it draw them closer or tear them apart? I love all the Venom Next Gen series, but I think Chips & Checks is my favorite!

[Brigitte · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can an author continually write good stories that go between good and fantastic? This story here is fantastic!!!! Vegas Venom legends, their kids all in a mix, of course an entitled villain - of course - just hmmm. Wow hmm wow and another wow!
If there were ten stars up for grabs this story would definitely get all ten, but we only have five so fabulous five stars and I, for one, can't wait for the next story in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, anti relationship hockey player Bowen Murphy finally meets his match in Vi Sawyer. I really enjoyed Chips & Checks, the 4th book in the Venom Series by Colleen Charles. Bowen had a list of rules he lived by but when he met Vi, he broke them all. Violet has her rules and the biggest is never ever hook up with a hockey player. Their connection was white hot and when Violet continues to be harassed by another player. Bowen is quick to pretend to be her boyfriend. Only the more time they spend together the more real it becomes. Great read.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I freaking love this read! Bowen Murphy is the ultimate in playboy who chucks every rule right out the window for a girl when Violet Sawyer crashes into his life and the way he supports her, checks on her, and happily risks it all so she can be safe at work, absolutely priceless. Their chemistry is raging inferno hot, the usual crazy from this group of Venom players and their parents is present, accounted for, and fabulous, and there is something intrinsically charming about how fast and hard these two fall and everyone knows it but them. A fantastic and standout addition to this series.

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Book 4 in The Venom Next Gen Series by this author, and can be read as a standalone. It is a heartfelt romance between hockey player Bowen and team doctor Violet. These two flawed souls and the unique plot make for a captivating read. What starts out as a one night stand turns into something more. It is a love story filled with drama and steam, sexual tension and chemistry, humor and charm, and twists and turns, plus appealing secondary characters. Entertaining page turner.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and this addition is not to be missed. They have a steamy one night stand and as it turns out, she is the new Dr. for the hockey team. She is also being harassed by one of the team members who does not know the meaning of "no" so he becomes her fake boyfriend. Love their interactions, all the cast of characters and their relationships, so much fun to read, so hard to put down. Cannot wait for more stories!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dee Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Vegas Venom instalment. Bowen and Violet are such great characters, their chemistry was palpable, their banter sassy and their connection instant despite the “rules” they each have.
Fast paced and very easy to read,. I love this team and their camaraderie and support of each other.
This has humour, romance, steam, emotion and drama. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next Venom player finding love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renee Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this story was so good! Bowen and Violet are complicated characters with lots of rules set for themselves. Rules meant to be broken when the right one comes along. Clever and witty writing. Their banter was hilarious. Extremely hot scenes were well written and very steamy. As a reader, I knew they were it for each other after the first chapter. It was fun watching them clumsily figure it out.

[SassyCM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inevitable magnetism. That's my best attempt at trying to describe what Violet and Bowen's relationship all about from the very beginning.

I love the wit, I love the word plays, the funny similes and hilarious metaphors. I just absolutely love Collen Charle's writing. It's definitely uplifting. A great pick-me-up for whenever you need one and always so full of delicious heat.

The over the top absurdity of Chips & Checks was just what I needed.
I love these books exactly for that.

[A Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great book from the series! This is Book 4 of Venom Next Gen and Violet and Bowen's story. He thought he had lots of rules until Violet came into his life and broke every one of them! This was a good story line with lots of drama, tension, and big emotions! The characters left you rooting for them every step of the way! Definitely a book that I will be reading again!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth story that is part of the next generation of the Vegas Venom hockey series. It can be enjoyed as a stand alone read but has connected characters. The story is about Violet and Bowen. A night of passion, a doctor, a threat and broken rules. This is such a good hockey romance that is sweet, touching and cute. I so loved the characters and enjoyed the plot tremendously. I especially love how the story develops between the characters.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 4 in Charles' Venom Next Gen series and another wonderful addition to the series. Our main characters are Violet and Bowen and it's one of my favorites! Well written and captivating from the start with a smooth flowing story line that's not just exciting but well balanced with great banter, romance and chemistry. Definitely a great read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charmaine Nouwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chips & Checks: a hockey romance story of Bowen and Violet..A hunky hockey player with a commitment issue and rule list on hand met a petite,feisty,sassy,gorgeous head injury specialist, daughter of a front-office big shot, and the only woman who makes him want to burn his own rulebook..A captivating,entertaining,with steam,drama and romance..Book 4 of Venom Next Gen.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Narelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet and Bowen are two people who are alike and opposites at the same time. He's a huge hockey player, she's a much smaller woman and a doctor for the team. Then there's the lists, the shared friends and found family members of the Vegas Venom, and the fantastic banter between all of the characters. So easy and so much fun to read, I love Ms Charles' work.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it. if you loved the first 3 books of the next generation of the venom hockey team you will love Violet's story.
Violet is Briggs Sawyers step daughter. Bowen Murphy is a new recruit for the venom. What follows is some drama, some angst, mystery, and comedy.
the characters from the other books come along for the fun.
enjoy this I am looking forward to what comes next for the venom crew.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Violet and Bowen's story. Heart melting romance and swoon is blended with drama, tension, big feels, heart, humor and emotion to create a couple you can't resist rooting for as they face every challenge thrown at them. This book also offers a great balance of cute and serious. So, it gave my thoughts, feelings and heart a solid workout.

[Didi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colleen has given me another fun and fabulous hockey romance. Bowen doesn’t do relationships-that is until Violet comes into the picture. The spice was spicin’, the characters were wonderful, the cameos perfection, the banter and humor were the chef’s kiss! I am enjoying this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amber Novak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving the Venom Next Gen series and Bowen and Vi are my new favorite couple. The best witty banter, an amazing cast of supporting characters, plenty of hockey team shenanigans, high spice, love, and a HEA make this another fantastic entry in the growing series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bowen is the newest team member. Violet is a doctor, specializing in head injury. One of Bowen’s teammate is very aggressive toward Violet. So they started a fake relationship except it’s getting very real. Great story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love seeing the next generation of Venom players & their kids find their HEA! Bowen and Violet are an interesting match; however, any woman would want someone who wants to satisfy all of the items on her "bucket list". But these two grow together and Bowen's list of rules ends up being hard to follow...but I am glad her list gets checked off and his gets tossed:)

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

brilliant

I love Violet & Bowen’s story.…
Bowen is my new favourite book boyfriend you have written.
I didn’t notice any mistakes.
I loved the cameos from the OG Vemon players.
I really need to find someone who gives Huggles!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Recommend to all

[Geraldine Streit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just because it touch a difficult subject it deserves the 4 stars. Otherwise the story is cute but the love story is just a little too easy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[brenda hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed read this book I couldn’t put it down turning the pages. I thought the story was interesting and was well written that kept you reading. I can’t wait to read from this Colleen Charles. I recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.