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The Playmakers
Love Rinkside
A meet-cute behind masks. The start of something new. Will they make the play or will they need an assist?
Drew Foster is trapped in a one-man operation. Focused on building his small IT consulting business, the workaholic thirty-one-year-old has no time for close relationships except with his sister and widowed mom. But at a Halloween bash hosted by his brother-in-law’s hockey teammate, he hits it off with an unknown woman in an outrageous mascot costume.
Katie Denning is done with men. Burned by past boyfriends using her to get close to the professional sports team, the loyal dog-lover leaves the party with a guy dressed as a giant banana slug… only to be pursued by police. And after a night of adventure and fun with the cute guy running from the cops, she plucks up the courage to ask him on a date.
Though their romantic rendezvous is cut short by her Chow-mix attacking him, a determined Drew asks for a second chance. A cautiously optimistic Katie begins falling hard, but she fears Drew’s work demands could result in her facing another painful rejection.
Are they about to get stuck on the sidelines before they can score a forever goal?
Love Rinkside is a lighthearted novella in The Playmakers Series of contemporary sports romances. If you like revisiting secondary characters, steamy scenes, and quick entertaining reads, then you’ll adore G.K. Brady’s happily ever after.
Download Love Rinkside to take center position today!
Drew Foster is trapped in a one-man operation. Focused on building his small IT consulting business, the workaholic thirty-one-year-old has no time for close relationships except with his sister and widowed mom. But at a Halloween bash hosted by his brother-in-law’s hockey teammate, he hits it off with an unknown woman in an outrageous mascot costume.
Katie Denning is done with men. Burned by past boyfriends using her to get close to the professional sports team, the loyal dog-lover leaves the party with a guy dressed as a giant banana slug… only to be pursued by police. And after a night of adventure and fun with the cute guy running from the cops, she plucks up the courage to ask him on a date.
Though their romantic rendezvous is cut short by her Chow-mix attacking him, a determined Drew asks for a second chance. A cautiously optimistic Katie begins falling hard, but she fears Drew’s work demands could result in her facing another painful rejection.
Are they about to get stuck on the sidelines before they can score a forever goal?
Love Rinkside is a lighthearted novella in The Playmakers Series of contemporary sports romances. If you like revisiting secondary characters, steamy scenes, and quick entertaining reads, then you’ll adore G.K. Brady’s happily ever after.
Download Love Rinkside to take center position today!
165 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2025
13 people are currently reading
1059 people want to read
About the author
G.K. Brady
21 books349 followersG.K. Brady was born in Japan and grew up in Vietnam and Singapore—and many would argue she has yet to grow up.
Since childhood, all sorts of stories and characters have lived in her imagination, elbowing one another for attention, so she’s finally giving them their voice on the written page.
A writer of contemporary romance, she loves telling tales of the less-than-perfect hero or heroine who transforms with each turn of a page.
G.K. is the proud mom of three grown sons. When she’s not writing, she might be reading, traveling, drinking wine, listening to music, or gardening—sometimes all at once! She currently resides in Colorado with her very patient husband.
Since childhood, all sorts of stories and characters have lived in her imagination, elbowing one another for attention, so she’s finally giving them their voice on the written page.
A writer of contemporary romance, she loves telling tales of the less-than-perfect hero or heroine who transforms with each turn of a page.
G.K. is the proud mom of three grown sons. When she’s not writing, she might be reading, traveling, drinking wine, listening to music, or gardening—sometimes all at once! She currently resides in Colorado with her very patient husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
October 30, 2023
This is a quick fun read. I loved the meet cute. The characters are great and the story is a blend of humor and emotion. I also enjoyed the storyline. Overall a good read.
July 10, 2024
3.5 – 4 stars
Love Rinkside is a fun standalone novella in The Playmakers series. It is a quick and entertaining read. This sports RomCom has much humour and banter and had me laughing out loud and sometimes cringing at their predicaments. This sweet with a dash of spice tale is full of emotions as well.
We get to meet up with characters from previous books and what a mess they get themselves into. Drew and Katie find themselves in a most unlikely situation when they escape a fancy dress party and end up on the wrong side of the law. Unfortunately, Drew is not looking for love in fact dating is not even in his wheelhouse but when a certain someone bursts in full colour into his life he finally accepts the inevitable.
Want a feel-good story that you can enjoy and escape for a few hours then this is the book for you.
Love Rinkside has it all Halloween, Thanksgiving and Hockey. Crazy costumes, rough neighbourhoods, nosy friends and family and you have mayhem and madness at the ready.
Love Rinkside is a fun standalone novella in The Playmakers series. It is a quick and entertaining read. This sports RomCom has much humour and banter and had me laughing out loud and sometimes cringing at their predicaments. This sweet with a dash of spice tale is full of emotions as well.
We get to meet up with characters from previous books and what a mess they get themselves into. Drew and Katie find themselves in a most unlikely situation when they escape a fancy dress party and end up on the wrong side of the law. Unfortunately, Drew is not looking for love in fact dating is not even in his wheelhouse but when a certain someone bursts in full colour into his life he finally accepts the inevitable.
Want a feel-good story that you can enjoy and escape for a few hours then this is the book for you.
Love Rinkside has it all Halloween, Thanksgiving and Hockey. Crazy costumes, rough neighbourhoods, nosy friends and family and you have mayhem and madness at the ready.
October 31, 2023
Absolutely delightful! How they got together was hysterical and entirely memorable. Mascots rock! Even though this is a novella, it didn’t feel rushed and the ending was entirely satisfying. I’m so glad that Katie and Drew got their own story. I’ve loved both characters from the other books and together, they were awesome.
November 23, 2023
Love Rinkside, G.K. Brady’s latest installment in The Playmakers series, is the best type of series story: it is a multi-layered story with scenes that will have you laughing out loud, sighing over the romantic raw dialogue, and others where you’ll wonder if your device can handle the sizzle.
As with the other books in the series, Love Rinkside has a main character who is wrestling with personal challenges. The author is skilled at bringing out the challenges and skillfully weaving in how he deals with them as the story progresses. This is not your “hot guy next door falls in love with Barbie” story. Love Rinkside has real characters who could be (let’s hope!) the guy and gal next door.
Drew is all that! He’s the handsome brother of one of Katie’s friends who loves his sister, is dedicated to his career, plays hockey with his friends, and has sworn off women … until super cute Katie barges into his world. As the two of them navigate a dating not dating thing, while keeping things underwraps, they start to realize that they just might have something they’ve both wanted but thought wasn’t possible.
Love Rinkside has dogs, over involved friends and siblings, and a sketchy neighborhood .. all set during the last months of the year, which means Halloween, Thanksgiving, and hockey! If you’re looking for your next read, download Love Rinkside now and settle into one of the best stories I’ve read all year
Oh! if you haven’t read the other stories in The Playmakers series, fear not! Love Rinkside is a standalone series story with characters from Ms. Brady’s other stories have a prominent role (not just a cameo), which is like running into long lost friends. You’ll want to download Love Rinkside … but plan on downloading the whole series when you’re done!
As with the other books in the series, Love Rinkside has a main character who is wrestling with personal challenges. The author is skilled at bringing out the challenges and skillfully weaving in how he deals with them as the story progresses. This is not your “hot guy next door falls in love with Barbie” story. Love Rinkside has real characters who could be (let’s hope!) the guy and gal next door.
Drew is all that! He’s the handsome brother of one of Katie’s friends who loves his sister, is dedicated to his career, plays hockey with his friends, and has sworn off women … until super cute Katie barges into his world. As the two of them navigate a dating not dating thing, while keeping things underwraps, they start to realize that they just might have something they’ve both wanted but thought wasn’t possible.
Love Rinkside has dogs, over involved friends and siblings, and a sketchy neighborhood .. all set during the last months of the year, which means Halloween, Thanksgiving, and hockey! If you’re looking for your next read, download Love Rinkside now and settle into one of the best stories I’ve read all year
Oh! if you haven’t read the other stories in The Playmakers series, fear not! Love Rinkside is a standalone series story with characters from Ms. Brady’s other stories have a prominent role (not just a cameo), which is like running into long lost friends. You’ll want to download Love Rinkside … but plan on downloading the whole series when you’re done!
October 25, 2023
The Playmakers Series
Drew Foster is attending a Halloween "mascot" costume party hosted by his brother in law that he really doesn't want to do. He decides to stay outside on the patio hiding away from everyone until he thinks he can leave. He would rather be home working on his IT business but had no choice.
He's surprised when someone else comes outside. Katie Denning has an unusual costume and doesn't want to be inside either. So the two of them sit there and talk and then decide to leave sneaking off to his truck. All they want to do is get their costumes off and go home.
But of course that's not so easy when they are stopped by the police.
They start to hang out together neither looking for a relationship but that starts to change. Through some ups and downs they grow closer and really like each other but Drew's work starts to come between them as well as Katie's dog not liking Drew.
Can they overcome these obstacles?
I loved this book! I laughed so hard at their escape scene and their costumes, I can only imagine.
4.5 stars
Drew Foster is attending a Halloween "mascot" costume party hosted by his brother in law that he really doesn't want to do. He decides to stay outside on the patio hiding away from everyone until he thinks he can leave. He would rather be home working on his IT business but had no choice.
He's surprised when someone else comes outside. Katie Denning has an unusual costume and doesn't want to be inside either. So the two of them sit there and talk and then decide to leave sneaking off to his truck. All they want to do is get their costumes off and go home.
But of course that's not so easy when they are stopped by the police.
They start to hang out together neither looking for a relationship but that starts to change. Through some ups and downs they grow closer and really like each other but Drew's work starts to come between them as well as Katie's dog not liking Drew.
Can they overcome these obstacles?
I loved this book! I laughed so hard at their escape scene and their costumes, I can only imagine.
4.5 stars
October 27, 2023
The latest book in the Playmakers Series by G K Brady is titled “Love Rinkside” and features two supporting characters from previous books, Natalie Shandstrom’s brother Drew, and Paige Miller’s assistant, Katie Denning. Casually aware of one another from previous social and work-related events, their official meet-cute borders on hysterical as they are in costume and decide to make a getaway from a Halloween party where they are both dressed as team mascots. Brady is fantastic at giving just enough detail for the reader to see this comedy of errors play out in your head and alternate between secondary embarrassment and laugh out loud moments. The pair find some sweetness, some heat, and some real opportunities to risk change and growth together. Keeping their blossoming courtship a secret leads to some misunderstandings, rom-com worthy sweetness, and good romantic tension moments too. A short fun read at fewer than 200 pages, and with a spice level at about 3/5, I would recommend this in a minute to anyone wanting a feel-good beach or porch read.
October 29, 2023
Another great book in this series that had me laughing out loud from start to finish.
Drew and Katie’s story is a relatively quick read, which I finished in one sitting. I really enjoyed these two as a couple, and after their hilarious escape from the Mascot party they were both attending, they decided to spend some time together but not wanting anything more.
Now I’ve read plenty of romance novels with this storyline, and I am sure that I am going to read a whole lot more. But to me, each author has their own version and I have enjoyed each and every one of them. As this part unfolds, misunderstandings happen between the couple, but the way they are resolved made for some really wonderful reading.
Great story with even better characters, I cannot recommend this book enough
Drew and Katie’s story is a relatively quick read, which I finished in one sitting. I really enjoyed these two as a couple, and after their hilarious escape from the Mascot party they were both attending, they decided to spend some time together but not wanting anything more.
Now I’ve read plenty of romance novels with this storyline, and I am sure that I am going to read a whole lot more. But to me, each author has their own version and I have enjoyed each and every one of them. As this part unfolds, misunderstandings happen between the couple, but the way they are resolved made for some really wonderful reading.
Great story with even better characters, I cannot recommend this book enough
October 31, 2023
The Rinksiders - Drew and Katie
Love Rinkside (The Playmakers Series Novella) by G. K. Brady is a short and sweet, fast-paced fall into love with two characters initially intent of steer clear of all things long-term or relationship.
Drew and Katie’s story is fraught with complications, internal conflicts, sexual tension, and a failure to communicate. Not to mention being honest with themselves. Katie and Drew both have walls that don’t stand a chance against love, but they sure do try to keep it all status quo.
Overall, the heart overrules and supersedes the mind allowing the love Drew and Katie have for one another to prevail and it’s absolute, complete love fueling this HEA rinkside.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
Love Rinkside (The Playmakers Series Novella) by G. K. Brady is a short and sweet, fast-paced fall into love with two characters initially intent of steer clear of all things long-term or relationship.
Drew and Katie’s story is fraught with complications, internal conflicts, sexual tension, and a failure to communicate. Not to mention being honest with themselves. Katie and Drew both have walls that don’t stand a chance against love, but they sure do try to keep it all status quo.
Overall, the heart overrules and supersedes the mind allowing the love Drew and Katie have for one another to prevail and it’s absolute, complete love fueling this HEA rinkside.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
November 1, 2023
This is a brilliant addition to this series.
Drew and Katie are both at a Halloween party and the costume theme is Mascots. Both are hiding away on a balcony, him because he is too busy thinking about his business and she because her costume is making her a laughing stock.
They are perfect together and get along so well but what happens when his work starts to get in the way and her dog has taken a dislike 6him.
Plenty of laughs and so much drama but can they get their HEA when they are used to being single or people using them to get close to the Hockey team.
A must read with a perfect ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Drew and Katie are both at a Halloween party and the costume theme is Mascots. Both are hiding away on a balcony, him because he is too busy thinking about his business and she because her costume is making her a laughing stock.
They are perfect together and get along so well but what happens when his work starts to get in the way and her dog has taken a dislike 6him.
Plenty of laughs and so much drama but can they get their HEA when they are used to being single or people using them to get close to the Hockey team.
A must read with a perfect ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 31, 2023
Such an entertaining read. The meeting of Sammy and Scrotie at the costume party was hilarious and their run-ins with the police over indecent exposure later that evening were epically funny.
Both Katie and Drew are committed to being single after being hurt too many times. They strike up a conversation while dressed up in over the top Halloween costumes and have so much in common. Their relationship has some speed bumps and their instincts have them making choices that cause more issues.
I loved Drew’s grand gesture and his public commitment to winning Katie back.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Both Katie and Drew are committed to being single after being hurt too many times. They strike up a conversation while dressed up in over the top Halloween costumes and have so much in common. Their relationship has some speed bumps and their instincts have them making choices that cause more issues.
I loved Drew’s grand gesture and his public commitment to winning Katie back.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
July 22, 2024
This is the first I've read from this author, even though it is connected to a series (playmaker series). I enjoyed this novella as a good quick read. Drew and Katie meet in a funny way at a costume party on Halloween where they are masked. They hit it off when they both sneak away from the party to the porch and see each other's crazy costumes. They don't know who each other are until masks are removed later that night, when they decide to ditch the party altogether. They find out they're connected through friends/family and never really noticed the other before. Both have hesitations about being in a relationship, mainly Katie. Will they be able to overcome those hesitations and give into their obvious chemistry? I would definitely read others in this series.
October 25, 2023
Love Rinkside is a totally laugh out loud romcom by GK Brady is the latest book in the Playmakers Series by GK Brady!
The story is about two people we’ve met before in previous books; Katie Paige Miller’s assistant and Drew, Natalie Shandstrom’s Brother. An unusual meeting at a Halloween party wearing REALLY UNUSUAL COSTUMES starts the craziness!
So cute, so fun with a rec league, but still hot, hockey player, and a beautiful woman!
You’re going to love this book!
The story is about two people we’ve met before in previous books; Katie Paige Miller’s assistant and Drew, Natalie Shandstrom’s Brother. An unusual meeting at a Halloween party wearing REALLY UNUSUAL COSTUMES starts the craziness!
So cute, so fun with a rec league, but still hot, hockey player, and a beautiful woman!
You’re going to love this book!
October 31, 2023
Katie and Drew's book was everything that I love in a book. It was funny, entertaining, sweet and so much more. I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud. Neither Katie or Drew were looking for a relationship but sometimes fate steps in! These two were perfect for each other. Their story is not an easy one but it will keep you smiling. I am definitely going to go back and read more by this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2023
The first couple of chapters had me hooked but then my interest waned. I really wanted to like this but it just felt too rushed to me. Lots of sex and no communication which was their big issue.
The time table was just off for me. Meeting at a Halloween party and they fall in love by Thanksgiving. No actual dates just lots of sex. This story could have been drawn out more so, I (as the reader) could have enjoyed the romance and the frisky behavior.
The time table was just off for me. Meeting at a Halloween party and they fall in love by Thanksgiving. No actual dates just lots of sex. This story could have been drawn out more so, I (as the reader) could have enjoyed the romance and the frisky behavior.
November 11, 2023
What a fun beginning, I loved the quirky costumes and the Halloween night antics. I couldn’t stop smiling. A fun adventure, entertaining characters with great depth and sparky banter, a pinch of angst and drama, emotional, sweet, steamy chemistry, a scene stealing pooch and a wonderful HEA.
I received a copy from the author and this is my voluntary review.
I received a copy from the author and this is my voluntary review.
November 24, 2023
This was a special novella read and I enjoyed it. I read someone called this book an adjacent book and I agree. It’s not about the professional hockey players but about the people in their lives. A must read if you love the Playmaker’s series as I do. Many we already know from,previous books. It certainly added to our reading experience. Loved it.
September 7, 2025
This book was an awesome reminder that you work to live not live to work. And sometimes we loose focus on that. Keep your priorities straight.
November 3, 2023
I enjoyed Love Rinkside - happy to see Drew and Katie get their own books, and it happened all in the same story! Their adventures that first night were hilarious! I wanted to smack Drew at times, but he got his act together and the grand gesture was EPIC. It was nice to see some of the team and WAGs make appearances too. Love these two together! You can definitely read this as a standalone.
November 11, 2023
This was a fabulous read.
Drew is self employed and hasn't had time for a relationship but is forced to attend a Halloween Party but he is already planning his escape.
Katie goes straight out the back of the Halloween party and gets a shock that someone else out there.
I had a few laughs through this book, loved it.
I received a free copy of this book and leaving a voluntarily and honest review.
Drew is self employed and hasn't had time for a relationship but is forced to attend a Halloween Party but he is already planning his escape.
Katie goes straight out the back of the Halloween party and gets a shock that someone else out there.
I had a few laughs through this book, loved it.
I received a free copy of this book and leaving a voluntarily and honest review.
November 8, 2023
ARC review. Love Rinkside by G.K. Brady was an amazingly fun book! It had a little of everything; fun, police, romance, family, hockey and finally love. It brought a big smile to my face when the story began at a Halloween party complete with unbelievably unique costumes. It was a fun read that kept the smiles cracking. I rooted for Drew and Katie through all of it and had a huge smile on as they found their HEA.
November 28, 2024
This book was a cute little read with fun, relatable characters. It made me laugh and anxious to finish with a happy ending.
November 8, 2023
Have read this as an ARC, fairly new to G.K Brady’s writing and have loved them so far! This story follows Katie and Drew who are rinksiders. It’s a lovely story with a HEA. Yes it has some twists, the spice level is great and the story has some funny scenes!
Well worth a read!
Well worth a read!
November 28, 2023
This was a quick fun read. I loved the humor thru out the book. It was also sweet and spicy. Overall it was a good book.
July 27, 2024
It was a Halloween party and everyone had to show up in masked costumes and the theme was a mascot. Drew picked a costume that he thought would help him win the prize but then he felt self conscience so he hid on the deck. Then Katie shows up and goes out on the deck to hide because she too is self conscience of her costume that she is sure will win her the prize.
Really enjoyed this book and think that you will too. Check it out you won't be disappointed.
Really enjoyed this book and think that you will too. Check it out you won't be disappointed.
November 23, 2023
Love Rinkside is a hockey adjacent book featuring characters we have met previously - Drew who is TJ (my ❤️❤️❤️) brother in law and Katie, Paige’s assistant. Both have been burned in past relationships and have no interest in anything even remotely related to love and forever.
This novella had the most incredible (and hilarious) meet cute I have read in a while! Although there may have been many reasons to avoid a second meeting these 2 think they are fireproof - after all, Katie has another guy in her life, Hugo, who has 4 paws and fur but is definitely obsessive!
Ms Brady provides us with a love story between two love averse people whose lives are intertwined and complicated and does so with vulnerability and humor. And even the third act breakup feels necessary for the perfect grand gesture ending.
If you are a romance reader who’s not really into to sports romance or one who’s obsessed (like me) this book is perfect for you. And if you are a fan of the Playmaker series it’s nice to visit old friends.
This novella had the most incredible (and hilarious) meet cute I have read in a while! Although there may have been many reasons to avoid a second meeting these 2 think they are fireproof - after all, Katie has another guy in her life, Hugo, who has 4 paws and fur but is definitely obsessive!
Ms Brady provides us with a love story between two love averse people whose lives are intertwined and complicated and does so with vulnerability and humor. And even the third act breakup feels necessary for the perfect grand gesture ending.
If you are a romance reader who’s not really into to sports romance or one who’s obsessed (like me) this book is perfect for you. And if you are a fan of the Playmaker series it’s nice to visit old friends.
August 21, 2024
BRILLIANT !!
This is such a wonderful story and I LOVED listening to it.
Love Rinkside is a part of The Playmakers series and this one is little bit different,as it tells the story between Katie and Drew.
Drew does play hockey but not professionally he already has a job he loves.his sister is Natalie Shandstrom she is married to a professional Hockey player.
Katie is Paige Millers assisstant Paige is married to a professional hockey player their story is within this series.
So Drew and Katie are involved in the same circles but just on the side lines, they meet at a Halloween party were they are dressed in ridiculous costumes.
Both of them are eager to leave the party and stop being even more humiliated by being dressed in these horrible costumes.
They get along great and they are so attracted to eachother..they are actually so so cute together and they go on a date...where they discover that they just fit perfectly especially when they give into their attraction...the steam is so HOT.!..And they cannot get enough of eachother.
Weeks of bliss together where their connection is so fun and easy commence...but it begins to fall apart when Katies insecurities start to emerge,she has been hurt in the past and doubts about their relationship creep in...They hadn't even defined their relationship...it was kept secret and that didn't sit well with either of them...Why was it a secret?
But Drew is not perfect he has a reputation of loving and leaving his conquests and he allows his job and hockey take over his life neglecting Katie and their relationship,his frustration with his job turns him into an argumetative idiot.
Honestly the miscommunication in this story is so frustrating I wanted to scream..because instead of talking to eachother about their feelings...They kept everything inside allowing their inner voices make up senarios that aren't even happening...assuming what the other one is thinking and feeling and it destroys the good thing they have.
G.K. Brady is excellent at writing all the questions and doubts of each character giving them such an authentic feel to the characters.
I absolutely love G.K Brady's writing and this series I am enjoying every character and their romances..Drew and Katie are no different.
Their romance is beautifully imperfect,they may have some rocky times but it is all worth it in the end.
The Narration to this audiobook by Ryan Lee Dunlap and Shiloh James is FANTASTIC !!..I LOVED listening to their storytelling and enjoyed their performances very much.
Love Rinkside is a steamy,sweet entertaining romance that is written perfectly by G.K.Brady.
I Loved it.
I cannot wait for the next book.
Magnificent 5 Stars.
This is such a wonderful story and I LOVED listening to it.
Love Rinkside is a part of The Playmakers series and this one is little bit different,as it tells the story between Katie and Drew.
Drew does play hockey but not professionally he already has a job he loves.his sister is Natalie Shandstrom she is married to a professional Hockey player.
Katie is Paige Millers assisstant Paige is married to a professional hockey player their story is within this series.
So Drew and Katie are involved in the same circles but just on the side lines, they meet at a Halloween party were they are dressed in ridiculous costumes.
Both of them are eager to leave the party and stop being even more humiliated by being dressed in these horrible costumes.
They get along great and they are so attracted to eachother..they are actually so so cute together and they go on a date...where they discover that they just fit perfectly especially when they give into their attraction...the steam is so HOT.!..And they cannot get enough of eachother.
Weeks of bliss together where their connection is so fun and easy commence...but it begins to fall apart when Katies insecurities start to emerge,she has been hurt in the past and doubts about their relationship creep in...They hadn't even defined their relationship...it was kept secret and that didn't sit well with either of them...Why was it a secret?
But Drew is not perfect he has a reputation of loving and leaving his conquests and he allows his job and hockey take over his life neglecting Katie and their relationship,his frustration with his job turns him into an argumetative idiot.
Honestly the miscommunication in this story is so frustrating I wanted to scream..because instead of talking to eachother about their feelings...They kept everything inside allowing their inner voices make up senarios that aren't even happening...assuming what the other one is thinking and feeling and it destroys the good thing they have.
G.K. Brady is excellent at writing all the questions and doubts of each character giving them such an authentic feel to the characters.
I absolutely love G.K Brady's writing and this series I am enjoying every character and their romances..Drew and Katie are no different.
Their romance is beautifully imperfect,they may have some rocky times but it is all worth it in the end.
The Narration to this audiobook by Ryan Lee Dunlap and Shiloh James is FANTASTIC !!..I LOVED listening to their storytelling and enjoyed their performances very much.
Love Rinkside is a steamy,sweet entertaining romance that is written perfectly by G.K.Brady.
I Loved it.
I cannot wait for the next book.
Magnificent 5 Stars.
September 22, 2024
Great Story & Narration🎧 Entertaining & Heartfelt!
Love Rinkside
The Playmakers Series
By: G.K. Brady
Narrated by: Ryan Lee Dunlap, Shiloh James
It is great to be back in G.K. Brady’s “Playmakers” series, one of my favorite series of sports romance novels and “Love Ringside” is a wonderful addition to the series, a rink side romance between Drew Foster, sister to Natalie from the second book, “Third Man In” and Katie Denning who works with and is friends with Paige Miller from the first book, “Taming Beckett”. This book stands on its own, so you need not have read or listened to the series to enjoy it, but if you did, it is great to see these characters again, even if it is just a cameo appearance. Drew and Katie meet at a Halloween party at the Miller’s house, and everyone had to dress up in a team mascot. Drew and Katie’s were unique, especially Katie’s, which was very halloweenie and maybe a little over the top, since it caught the attention of the police. That was a hysterical opening scene, and the two hit it off and it was a fun start to their relationship. I enjoyed watching these two get to know each other and was happy to see them get past their own insecurities and misunderstandings. This novella sized book packs a whole lot of story, with plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance, and as always, the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. G.K. Brady, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Ryan Lee Dunlap and Shiloh James were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting. I loved how they took their role and owned it, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Ms. James’s Katie was perfection, showcasing every aspect of her personality, from her insecurities to her fierceness and determination, and Dunlap did the same as Drew, nailing his demeanor and all traits of his personality as well. These two are entertaining storytellers, their voices and performance complemented each other and together they elevated this already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another wonderful listen.
Love Rinkside
The Playmakers Series
By: G.K. Brady
Narrated by: Ryan Lee Dunlap, Shiloh James
It is great to be back in G.K. Brady’s “Playmakers” series, one of my favorite series of sports romance novels and “Love Ringside” is a wonderful addition to the series, a rink side romance between Drew Foster, sister to Natalie from the second book, “Third Man In” and Katie Denning who works with and is friends with Paige Miller from the first book, “Taming Beckett”. This book stands on its own, so you need not have read or listened to the series to enjoy it, but if you did, it is great to see these characters again, even if it is just a cameo appearance. Drew and Katie meet at a Halloween party at the Miller’s house, and everyone had to dress up in a team mascot. Drew and Katie’s were unique, especially Katie’s, which was very halloweenie and maybe a little over the top, since it caught the attention of the police. That was a hysterical opening scene, and the two hit it off and it was a fun start to their relationship. I enjoyed watching these two get to know each other and was happy to see them get past their own insecurities and misunderstandings. This novella sized book packs a whole lot of story, with plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance, and as always, the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. G.K. Brady, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Ryan Lee Dunlap and Shiloh James were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting. I loved how they took their role and owned it, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Ms. James’s Katie was perfection, showcasing every aspect of her personality, from her insecurities to her fierceness and determination, and Dunlap did the same as Drew, nailing his demeanor and all traits of his personality as well. These two are entertaining storytellers, their voices and performance complemented each other and together they elevated this already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another wonderful listen.
September 7, 2024
Oh, G. K. Brady, how do you do it?? Make every book in the Playmakers series full of surprises but comfortingly familiar? Hilariously funny and soberingly serious? Steamy, sexy, tingly and romantic? And . . . the best narrators ever; more on that later.
Love Rinkside made me smile, then chuckle, then burst into laughter – and that was still the first chapter. Really, think about it: a costume party where everyone is to dress as a sports mascot. A banana? Okay, I guess that works somewhere. But ‘man parts’ just pushes you over the edge, especially when Drew is the banana and Katie is the parts. It took only a minute to remember who these people were and realize it was going to be a treat to learn more of their stories. Drew is Nadia’s sister and T. J. Sandstrom’s brother-in-law. A hunky, capable, intriguing guy in his own right but not a superstar athlete. Maybe nose a little too much to the grindstone and too cautious at times. Katie is Paige’s assistant, the one who had the little crush on Beckett from way back when Paige and Beckett got together. Katie is funny, talented, with more of the good-girl-next-door vibe than puck bunny (fortunately!) or the glamour of the players’ wives and girlfriends and also too cautious at times.
Katie and Drew already know each other casually, so when they are both hiding out on a side patio at the party and realize they don’t want to be there in those costumes anymore they decide to surreptitiously leave. Well, just picture that, trying to sneak around in those get-ups – the banana and the parts just slip out a side door and walk down the street to Katie’s car. Sure. They are stopped once by the police, and then again. You absolutely must listen/read it to see just how funny those encounters are. And to see that teeny, tiny flame of attraction before they do.
Drew dates, but it never works out. His girlfriends say he doesn’t have enough time for them (which is usually true) and/or he takes them to a party and they are so mesmerized by the hockey players Drew becomes invisible. He’s okay with that; he’s working on a big contract and romance isn’t in his future plans. Katie’s boyfriends always seem to be more interested in getting an ‘in’ with the hockey team than with her; her last boyfriend literally broke up with her as he was dropping her off at home. No one makes her feel special and so she doesn’t think she is. Looking for romance hurts too much so she’s not going to do it. But Katie and Drew have an easy relationship from the start, conversation flows, common interests, they laugh, no pressure, just feels good to be together. Name themselves Rinksiders and happy to be so. They even share a love of dogs, although sadly Katie’s dog does not send that love back to Drew – she attacks him. But they can be friends, or maybe a little more than friends but with no strings: “I’m not interested in a relationship.” “Me neither.” Perfect then, right? Yep, if Miscommunication 101 is perfect. It's delightful, fun, suspenseful, serious, dangerous, ridiculous – everything you’ve come to love from author Brady. The chapter titles alone make it worth a listen. And yes, don’t worry, lots of those yummy together scenes.
Now, back to those narrators. I was lucky enough to receive a duet recording of Love Rinkside. Duet is the best because it makes like being there even more like being there, dialogue flows. Shiloh James brings a breathiness to voicing Katie. Perfectly captures the strong inner woman fighting the insecurity, uncertainty and shyness to burst out and stay out, not wanting to make another mistake but not wanting to give up what might be with Drew. And Drew? Let me just say that once Ryan Lee Dunlap starts talking my ears go crazy. You feel all the warring emotions within Drew: he’s embarrassed, cocky, self-deprecating, uncertain – and full of desire and sexy hotness, and sudden protective care. All of G. K. Brady’s narrators are fantastic, but I could listen to RLD all day (and usually once I start listening that’s exactly what happens).
Thanks to the author for providing an audiobook copy of Love Rinkside. It’s an in-betweener story that fits right in with the rest of the series. Always great to be back with the players, their friends and families and to listen to some dynamite narration. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Love Rinkside made me smile, then chuckle, then burst into laughter – and that was still the first chapter. Really, think about it: a costume party where everyone is to dress as a sports mascot. A banana? Okay, I guess that works somewhere. But ‘man parts’ just pushes you over the edge, especially when Drew is the banana and Katie is the parts. It took only a minute to remember who these people were and realize it was going to be a treat to learn more of their stories. Drew is Nadia’s sister and T. J. Sandstrom’s brother-in-law. A hunky, capable, intriguing guy in his own right but not a superstar athlete. Maybe nose a little too much to the grindstone and too cautious at times. Katie is Paige’s assistant, the one who had the little crush on Beckett from way back when Paige and Beckett got together. Katie is funny, talented, with more of the good-girl-next-door vibe than puck bunny (fortunately!) or the glamour of the players’ wives and girlfriends and also too cautious at times.
Katie and Drew already know each other casually, so when they are both hiding out on a side patio at the party and realize they don’t want to be there in those costumes anymore they decide to surreptitiously leave. Well, just picture that, trying to sneak around in those get-ups – the banana and the parts just slip out a side door and walk down the street to Katie’s car. Sure. They are stopped once by the police, and then again. You absolutely must listen/read it to see just how funny those encounters are. And to see that teeny, tiny flame of attraction before they do.
Drew dates, but it never works out. His girlfriends say he doesn’t have enough time for them (which is usually true) and/or he takes them to a party and they are so mesmerized by the hockey players Drew becomes invisible. He’s okay with that; he’s working on a big contract and romance isn’t in his future plans. Katie’s boyfriends always seem to be more interested in getting an ‘in’ with the hockey team than with her; her last boyfriend literally broke up with her as he was dropping her off at home. No one makes her feel special and so she doesn’t think she is. Looking for romance hurts too much so she’s not going to do it. But Katie and Drew have an easy relationship from the start, conversation flows, common interests, they laugh, no pressure, just feels good to be together. Name themselves Rinksiders and happy to be so. They even share a love of dogs, although sadly Katie’s dog does not send that love back to Drew – she attacks him. But they can be friends, or maybe a little more than friends but with no strings: “I’m not interested in a relationship.” “Me neither.” Perfect then, right? Yep, if Miscommunication 101 is perfect. It's delightful, fun, suspenseful, serious, dangerous, ridiculous – everything you’ve come to love from author Brady. The chapter titles alone make it worth a listen. And yes, don’t worry, lots of those yummy together scenes.
Now, back to those narrators. I was lucky enough to receive a duet recording of Love Rinkside. Duet is the best because it makes like being there even more like being there, dialogue flows. Shiloh James brings a breathiness to voicing Katie. Perfectly captures the strong inner woman fighting the insecurity, uncertainty and shyness to burst out and stay out, not wanting to make another mistake but not wanting to give up what might be with Drew. And Drew? Let me just say that once Ryan Lee Dunlap starts talking my ears go crazy. You feel all the warring emotions within Drew: he’s embarrassed, cocky, self-deprecating, uncertain – and full of desire and sexy hotness, and sudden protective care. All of G. K. Brady’s narrators are fantastic, but I could listen to RLD all day (and usually once I start listening that’s exactly what happens).
Thanks to the author for providing an audiobook copy of Love Rinkside. It’s an in-betweener story that fits right in with the rest of the series. Always great to be back with the players, their friends and families and to listen to some dynamite narration. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
July 22, 2024
Love Rinkside was a cute, quick read. Drew and Katie met at a Halloween mascot party. No names and no faces. Neither were in the mood for a party and agreed to leave together. They still had no idea who the other was or what the looked like until they got to the car and changed out of the costumes. They are kind of from the same circle of friends. Katie works with Drew's sister.
Drew and Katie were immediately attracted to eachother but, that was it. He drove her home. They were both committed to singlehood.
Drew couldn't get Katie out of his thoughts and 2 days later he decided to take his dogs to the park where he runs into Katie and her dog who was trying to escape but luckily Drew was able to catch him. They agreed to go to dinner that night and then the sparks flew! Even though both weren't looking for a relationship, it seemed like they quickly found themselves in some sort of situationship!
Drew isn't used to spending time with a woman since his work is always #1 and his hockey league is #2 in his life. Does he have time to have a woman in his life?
Katie and Drew seemed happy with what they had but Drew was falling behind in his work they were keeping their relationship a secret from everyone. No one knew what was going on and when Drew's sister Natalie was talking about him to Katie she said how she thought he was seeing someone but wasn't sure and called him MR. Casual.
Between Katie's insecurities, and the way her dog Hugo hates and literally attacked Drew, their relationship was cut short before it really had a chance to begin. Will these two be able to work out the issues they have with eachother or are they both destined to be single forever?
Drew and Katie were immediately attracted to eachother but, that was it. He drove her home. They were both committed to singlehood.
Drew couldn't get Katie out of his thoughts and 2 days later he decided to take his dogs to the park where he runs into Katie and her dog who was trying to escape but luckily Drew was able to catch him. They agreed to go to dinner that night and then the sparks flew! Even though both weren't looking for a relationship, it seemed like they quickly found themselves in some sort of situationship!
Drew isn't used to spending time with a woman since his work is always #1 and his hockey league is #2 in his life. Does he have time to have a woman in his life?
Katie and Drew seemed happy with what they had but Drew was falling behind in his work they were keeping their relationship a secret from everyone. No one knew what was going on and when Drew's sister Natalie was talking about him to Katie she said how she thought he was seeing someone but wasn't sure and called him MR. Casual.
Between Katie's insecurities, and the way her dog Hugo hates and literally attacked Drew, their relationship was cut short before it really had a chance to begin. Will these two be able to work out the issues they have with eachother or are they both destined to be single forever?
July 28, 2024
I love The Playmakers Series!! And Love Rinkside is the next book I dove into. This time it’s not the players of the team but people on the outside. People who run in the player’s circles but aren’t professional Hockey players or work for the team.
This author has a way of sucking one in. And if you’re like me and a sucker for sports romances you won’t be able to resist!
Must love dogs! If Katie finds someone like that it’s the key to her heart. However she’s on a “manhating” adventure in her life. Feeling used in dejected she decided it was time for herself. What she didn’t expect was for Nat’s brother Drew to fall right into her lap. However despite their agreement for no strings she’s falling and falling hard. What is she going to do?
Drew does things to make his sister happy. That is when he has time. So when she drug him to a mascot costume party he thought he could just do what he usually does. Sit in the corner as a loner. He wasn’t expecting the breath of fresh air Katie just happened to be. A spitfire that allows him to be himself. One problem he’s quite happy being single, however he can’t ignore the attraction. He also can’t ignore the deep feelings he’s developing. What started off as a fling is becoming much more.
They are both afraid of what’s ahead of them? Neither wants to get hurt or hurt the other, but unless they can figure out how to communicate that potentially the road they are headed down.
Do they admit how they truly feel?
Or will it be too little too late?
Again I’m a sucker for a good sports romance, and this author is a good one for that. You won’t be disappointed!!
This author has a way of sucking one in. And if you’re like me and a sucker for sports romances you won’t be able to resist!
Must love dogs! If Katie finds someone like that it’s the key to her heart. However she’s on a “manhating” adventure in her life. Feeling used in dejected she decided it was time for herself. What she didn’t expect was for Nat’s brother Drew to fall right into her lap. However despite their agreement for no strings she’s falling and falling hard. What is she going to do?
Drew does things to make his sister happy. That is when he has time. So when she drug him to a mascot costume party he thought he could just do what he usually does. Sit in the corner as a loner. He wasn’t expecting the breath of fresh air Katie just happened to be. A spitfire that allows him to be himself. One problem he’s quite happy being single, however he can’t ignore the attraction. He also can’t ignore the deep feelings he’s developing. What started off as a fling is becoming much more.
They are both afraid of what’s ahead of them? Neither wants to get hurt or hurt the other, but unless they can figure out how to communicate that potentially the road they are headed down.
Do they admit how they truly feel?
Or will it be too little too late?
Again I’m a sucker for a good sports romance, and this author is a good one for that. You won’t be disappointed!!
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