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Fire on Ice #5
Release
NHL player Orion Caldwell protects his own. He’s an enforcer to his core, but he was the one left defenseless when his longtime girlfriend broke his heart. Now he’s all about his game, but spending the offseason in his hometown forces him to confront painful issues –both old and new.
Samara Cross just wants to be invisible. After living a nightmare, she came back to her hometown seeking solace. But her quiet new life is upturned by the hot, charismatic hockey player who’s taken a sudden interest in her.
Orion and Samara find something unexpected in each other, but when the hockey offseason ends, so does their time together. They struggle with their separation, confronted by ghosts of the past and an uncertain future, discovering that sometimes the only way to hold on to something precious is to let go.
Samara Cross just wants to be invisible. After living a nightmare, she came back to her hometown seeking solace. But her quiet new life is upturned by the hot, charismatic hockey player who’s taken a sudden interest in her.
Orion and Samara find something unexpected in each other, but when the hockey offseason ends, so does their time together. They struggle with their separation, confronted by ghosts of the past and an uncertain future, discovering that sometimes the only way to hold on to something precious is to let go.
Unknown Binding
First published December 13, 2014
73 people are currently reading
1220 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
90 books2,264 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
December 20, 2014
*ARC generously provided by the lovely author, Brenda Rothert in exchange for an honest review.*
February 17, 2024
5 Orion and Samara Stars
“I’m yours. That means I take care of you.”
“I’m yours, too,” I said softly, leaning my forehead against his. “And nothing’s ever felt better than that.”
2014 Review:
Very romantic with a sparkle of hot passion too! Samara and Orion come together when Orion is home for the Summer from the NHL. This is the 5th book in this brilliant series. Ryke has been my favourite but Orion is a very close second! This book had a gentler feel to it but the story took a twist I did not see coming. There isn't any conflict between Orion and Samara but there definitely are outside forces at work causing issues for them.
Looking forward to the new spin off series coming in Feb 2015. I really enjoy Brenda Rothert's writing style. Absolutely a one click writer for me.
HEA? Yes
Cheating? No - these two are all about each other.
Be aware
Re read in 2018 on audiobook - still love it.
Re read in 2021 via audiobook again. I love this book so much, Ms Rothert is one of my absolute favourite author's - she creates fabulous characters and I get completely, happily lost for hours in her books. The narration by Kristin Leigh and Lee Samuels is really well done and at just over 6 hours , it's a good length listening time.
Re read in 2024 via audiobook. This story never loses any of its appeal for me. When a gorgeous hockey player falls for a hometown girl with her own troubled past (and present!) , what's not to love?
“I’m yours. That means I take care of you.”
“I’m yours, too,” I said softly, leaning my forehead against his. “And nothing’s ever felt better than that.”
2014 Review:
Very romantic with a sparkle of hot passion too! Samara and Orion come together when Orion is home for the Summer from the NHL. This is the 5th book in this brilliant series. Ryke has been my favourite but Orion is a very close second! This book had a gentler feel to it but the story took a twist I did not see coming. There isn't any conflict between Orion and Samara but there definitely are outside forces at work causing issues for them.
Looking forward to the new spin off series coming in Feb 2015. I really enjoy Brenda Rothert's writing style. Absolutely a one click writer for me.
HEA? Yes
Cheating? No - these two are all about each other.
Be aware
Re read in 2018 on audiobook - still love it.
Re read in 2021 via audiobook again. I love this book so much, Ms Rothert is one of my absolute favourite author's - she creates fabulous characters and I get completely, happily lost for hours in her books. The narration by Kristin Leigh and Lee Samuels is really well done and at just over 6 hours , it's a good length listening time.
Re read in 2024 via audiobook. This story never loses any of its appeal for me. When a gorgeous hockey player falls for a hometown girl with her own troubled past (and present!) , what's not to love?
March 14, 2016
Re-read March 2016
Still love Orion. He is perfect and sweet and does everything right! Samara still got on my nerves with her "secret" but it didn't affect me as much this time. I'm sure I will re-read this multiple times when I need just a sweet low angst read.
Original Review December 2015:
This was a very sweet read and just what I needed! Orion was the perfect hero. He never strayed or wavered. The things he did for Samara were perfect. I was a little worried I wouldn't like Samara but she grew on me. By 50% I was tired of the whole "I want you but it'll never last because once you know my secret you won't want me anymore" thing with her but, she let it all out and Orion responded perfectly like I knew he would. I liked that she grew as a person and tried to be better and independent. This is definitely a book to read when you need a sweet romance. Loved it!
Still love Orion. He is perfect and sweet and does everything right! Samara still got on my nerves with her "secret" but it didn't affect me as much this time. I'm sure I will re-read this multiple times when I need just a sweet low angst read.
Original Review December 2015:
This was a very sweet read and just what I needed! Orion was the perfect hero. He never strayed or wavered. The things he did for Samara were perfect. I was a little worried I wouldn't like Samara but she grew on me. By 50% I was tired of the whole "I want you but it'll never last because once you know my secret you won't want me anymore" thing with her but, she let it all out and Orion responded perfectly like I knew he would. I liked that she grew as a person and tried to be better and independent. This is definitely a book to read when you need a sweet romance. Loved it!
August 2, 2017
I don't know how this is going to top Drive...
December 21, 2019
Release was the fifth book in Brenda Rothert’s Fire On Ice series. I read it as part of the series boxed set, but also reviewing separately.
Orion was a famous NHL player and was home helping his mom and sister during the off season. It was a small town so he was known by everyone.
Samara had just returned to the small town where she grew up. She was on the run; although Rothert revealed the reasons slowly and throughout the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed Orion and Samara. It was a sexy, sweet and emotional story. Samara was strong. She had a bad history but Orion was patient and able to help her through it. Rothert also had a few secondary stories running simultaneously with the relationship development. And they all merged in the end.
All in all, it was well written, well developed, emotional and gave me the “good feels.” Rothert started a spin off series, On the Line, and I can’t wait to explore it next.
Orion was a famous NHL player and was home helping his mom and sister during the off season. It was a small town so he was known by everyone.
Samara had just returned to the small town where she grew up. She was on the run; although Rothert revealed the reasons slowly and throughout the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed Orion and Samara. It was a sexy, sweet and emotional story. Samara was strong. She had a bad history but Orion was patient and able to help her through it. Rothert also had a few secondary stories running simultaneously with the relationship development. And they all merged in the end.
All in all, it was well written, well developed, emotional and gave me the “good feels.” Rothert started a spin off series, On the Line, and I can’t wait to explore it next.
January 7, 2015
New fav of the series!!
So good. Low angst, no stupid drama, and good amount of steam!
So good. Low angst, no stupid drama, and good amount of steam!
April 17, 2017
NHL player Orion Caldwell is spending the off season at home with his mother and sister helping out with her two kids. Orion hasn't been home since he broke up with his girlfriend who betrayed him, he knows the likelihood of bumping into her is inevitable but he doesn't want anything to do with her. While running an errand he runs into Samara Cross who he didn't know well but went to school with. When he tries to get to know her though, Samara is skittish and it only peaks his interest.
Samara vowed she would never get involved with another man again after the last one almost destroyed her. When Orion asks her out, Samara wants to say no but she gets talked into it and finds that she feels comfortable with Orion. Orion makes his interest known, he wants Samara and doesn't plan to let her go. Will Samara be able to let go of her past to build a future?
This was a hidden gem. I liked Orion, he is down to earth and and so patient with Samara. Samara is getting stronger everyday but she has never really had anyone to lean on and struggles a bit with how to do it. Wonderful read, oing to check out rest of series.
Samara vowed she would never get involved with another man again after the last one almost destroyed her. When Orion asks her out, Samara wants to say no but she gets talked into it and finds that she feels comfortable with Orion. Orion makes his interest known, he wants Samara and doesn't plan to let her go. Will Samara be able to let go of her past to build a future?
This was a hidden gem. I liked Orion, he is down to earth and and so patient with Samara. Samara is getting stronger everyday but she has never really had anyone to lean on and struggles a bit with how to do it. Wonderful read, oing to check out rest of series.
December 22, 2017
There's parts of this book I'm really fond of, and parts which I personally couldn't come to terms with. And ultimately, as a reader, I wanted her to leave him.
There's no elaborate reason for it. Both of them are very good people. But imo, he symbolises everything, that, should I have been in her shoes, I would resent.
Samara is a woman who has dealt with penetrating loneliness, foster care, abandonment, has been exposed to sexual and physical abuse in her household as a child. She has struggled. This is further maximised as an adult where she suffers emotional abuse from a abusive boyfriend, who later rapes her and is violent - stabbing her.
Her character through and through is one which represents strength and longevity in times of trauma and pain. She doesn't draw attention to her past, and blurt it out five minutes into the book to the hero. It's pieces which are broken in one by one, that she reluctantly shares, and it's incredibly endearing. She's relatable and appears positive. And that's because she's genuinely a woman who you probably know, but would never know that she's one of those in the 1:4 statistic who have been affected by sexual abuse. She's like the girl next door who is nothing like the ideal of what a girl next door is.
And whilst she struggled in high school, blending into a goth, there was popular high schooler Orion. Nothing was between them in high school but it bothered me that she noticed him whilst he never took notice of her. And that he dated a girl like Amy in high school but didn't see the Samaras of the world.
It bothered me that in the present state, he had it so easy. The sports stardom, the money, a warm inviting family in Indiana, friends, women at his beck and call though he is a "relationship" kind of guy. It bothered me that in the past, and present he genuinely has what we can label a wholesome life.
By comparison, the calamity and hopelessness that is her life if I was in her shoes would make me feel very jealous.
There's also the fact that everyone who gets involved in her life and care for her are in association to Orion. If she doesn't have him, she loses everything.
Orion is this pinnacle in a small town. Everyone hero worships him. She fleetingly noticed his good looks in high school but presumed he was just like his girlfriend Amy: shallow, and vapid - a bully.
She works at super save and is a Liberian. And that's okay, really.
But...
There's this whole it's not fair concept in my eyes
It's not his fault.
Or anyone's fault.
It's just life.
However, I don't think I could ever be with a guy like him.
Someone who has REDATES an Amy not seeing past her duplicity or simple looks. Obviously he isn't with her right from the start but this is simply a character assessing moment. Someone who has the looks and the money and the fame and the family. I just don't see that special quality in him.
Fair enough when he notices Samara, he doesn't look back. But there isn't that yearning there. Especially when he makes their relationship one of long distance without a second thought.
“But, I have my job here,” she said. “Two, actually. I might not to be able to find anything there. I’m a college dropout, you know.” She paused and continued. “Wait, did you know that? Do we know each other well enough to think about this? It’s only been a few months.”
“You wouldn’t need a job. I’ve got more than enough money.”
“I know, but—”
“Just hear me out, babe. I’ve been thinking about this. I love hockey. This is my dream job, and a lot of people don’t get to have a dream job. I’ve been really lucky. What’s your dream?”
***
(Why can't what she's doing right now be her dream? You know? There's this mindset from him that in my perspective is actually discouraging despite his words of "encouragement")
“No, it’s not that. I’ve never even considered living with someone. I guess I’d consider it, but to quit my jobs after less than three months together … I just can’t.”
“I think it’s ridiculous for you to work at the Supersaver for ten bucks an hour when I’ve got lots of money and I want to commit to you.”
“Don’t cut down my job,” she said sharply. “I might not make much money, but I support myself just fine. And I thought we were already committed.”
Fuck. This conversation was going south fast.
“We are. I just meant the commitment of living together. And I’m sorry for my rude comment. I didn’t mean to be hurtful.”
The massive division in life experiences is a huge obstruction irl if you think about it. So I just didn't rate him that much. He's a good boyfriend, a good man, treats her right etc etc, but he's not THE GUY.
There's no elaborate reason for it. Both of them are very good people. But imo, he symbolises everything, that, should I have been in her shoes, I would resent.
Samara is a woman who has dealt with penetrating loneliness, foster care, abandonment, has been exposed to sexual and physical abuse in her household as a child. She has struggled. This is further maximised as an adult where she suffers emotional abuse from a abusive boyfriend, who later rapes her and is violent - stabbing her.
Her character through and through is one which represents strength and longevity in times of trauma and pain. She doesn't draw attention to her past, and blurt it out five minutes into the book to the hero. It's pieces which are broken in one by one, that she reluctantly shares, and it's incredibly endearing. She's relatable and appears positive. And that's because she's genuinely a woman who you probably know, but would never know that she's one of those in the 1:4 statistic who have been affected by sexual abuse. She's like the girl next door who is nothing like the ideal of what a girl next door is.
And whilst she struggled in high school, blending into a goth, there was popular high schooler Orion. Nothing was between them in high school but it bothered me that she noticed him whilst he never took notice of her. And that he dated a girl like Amy in high school but didn't see the Samaras of the world.
It bothered me that in the present state, he had it so easy. The sports stardom, the money, a warm inviting family in Indiana, friends, women at his beck and call though he is a "relationship" kind of guy. It bothered me that in the past, and present he genuinely has what we can label a wholesome life.
By comparison, the calamity and hopelessness that is her life if I was in her shoes would make me feel very jealous.
There's also the fact that everyone who gets involved in her life and care for her are in association to Orion. If she doesn't have him, she loses everything.
Orion is this pinnacle in a small town. Everyone hero worships him. She fleetingly noticed his good looks in high school but presumed he was just like his girlfriend Amy: shallow, and vapid - a bully.
She works at super save and is a Liberian. And that's okay, really.
But...
There's this whole it's not fair concept in my eyes
It's not his fault.
Or anyone's fault.
It's just life.
However, I don't think I could ever be with a guy like him.
Someone who has REDATES an Amy not seeing past her duplicity or simple looks. Obviously he isn't with her right from the start but this is simply a character assessing moment. Someone who has the looks and the money and the fame and the family. I just don't see that special quality in him.
Fair enough when he notices Samara, he doesn't look back. But there isn't that yearning there. Especially when he makes their relationship one of long distance without a second thought.
“But, I have my job here,” she said. “Two, actually. I might not to be able to find anything there. I’m a college dropout, you know.” She paused and continued. “Wait, did you know that? Do we know each other well enough to think about this? It’s only been a few months.”
“You wouldn’t need a job. I’ve got more than enough money.”
“I know, but—”
“Just hear me out, babe. I’ve been thinking about this. I love hockey. This is my dream job, and a lot of people don’t get to have a dream job. I’ve been really lucky. What’s your dream?”
***
(Why can't what she's doing right now be her dream? You know? There's this mindset from him that in my perspective is actually discouraging despite his words of "encouragement")
“No, it’s not that. I’ve never even considered living with someone. I guess I’d consider it, but to quit my jobs after less than three months together … I just can’t.”
“I think it’s ridiculous for you to work at the Supersaver for ten bucks an hour when I’ve got lots of money and I want to commit to you.”
“Don’t cut down my job,” she said sharply. “I might not make much money, but I support myself just fine. And I thought we were already committed.”
Fuck. This conversation was going south fast.
“We are. I just meant the commitment of living together. And I’m sorry for my rude comment. I didn’t mean to be hurtful.”
The massive division in life experiences is a huge obstruction irl if you think about it. So I just didn't rate him that much. He's a good boyfriend, a good man, treats her right etc etc, but he's not THE GUY.
February 13, 2017
This was recommended to me to help my book slump and it definitely did. It was a pretty simple story with not a whole lot of contrived drama but had enough to make it interesting and it had a great couple. I like the heroine because even though she still had issues she was brave enough and smart enough to recognize what she wanted. I like the hero because even though he was a famous hockey player he never made that a big deal. It was his job and he loved it but that wasn't everything about him and that was refreshing. He was not the arrogant playboy most sports themed romance books show. He was more beta than alpha but not in a that he showed him weak. It was a quick read I truly enjoyed.
April 21, 2015
This was a sweet love story. I loved that the hero wasn't a manwhore and he treated the heroine really well. There wasn't very much relationship angst which is nice. I am getting a little tired of h's getting attacked in books. That is why I can't give 5 stars. It is safety gang safe!
January 13, 2015
Best of the series! Loved this one. Highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a light, sweet, steamy, low drama read. Def will be reading more from this author.
July 21, 2015
4.5 'a fabulous end to a series' Stars
‘There were no guarantees, ever, but love was a leap of faith and I’d been standing on the edge…’
I’ve loved this series. I never fail to get swept up in Brenda Rothert’s words, atmosphere and characters and it was sort of sad opening this book knowing this was the end to the Fire on Ice Series, however Brenda certainly left me on a high because Orion’s book was up there as one of my faves of this series.
“Samara…..you’re worth fighting for.”
This was such a sweet and beautiful read. There was nothing overly dramatic, no overabundance of angst – in fact it all flowed beautifully.
“You know, this you and me thing?” “I think we’re on to something really great.”
Our hero Orion was just divine! Orion is the teams enforcer and it’s a tough role putting your body on the line but this guy couldn’t be more different off the ice.
“Yeah, I’m a lover and a fighter.”
Orion was warm, sensitive and loyal and was exactly what Samara needed. Her feelings of worthlessness were heartbreaking but this man really brought her out of herself and taught her what love, desire and happiness really meant. That it was worth fighting for.
The love between Orion and Samara felt so genuine and sweet, it was impossible not to fall in love with these two. Their love was simplistic and honest and I felt every word and every touch between them. It was sheer beauty!
“I’m yours, too….and nothing’s ever felt better than that.”
As usual the Hockey ‘feel’ was apparent in this story and it’s one of the things that kept me coming back to this series again and again because Brenda really does put me in the moment as I’m swept up in the atmospheric delight of the hockey arena and the team brotherhood she creates.
If you haven’t checked out this series yet I urge you to add them to your TBR’s. Honestly, there has not been one book out of the five that I haven’t loved. Each is special in its own way and every character has an engaging, passionate and emotional story to tell.
I have to say I was a tad excited when I saw there would be a spin off series! Bring it on! The Fire on Ice series is an absolutely recommend from me!
**Reviewed from an ARC copy provided by the author, with thanks**
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March 28, 2015
Title: Release (Fire on Ice #5)
Author: Brenda Rothert
Rating: 3.5 stars
POV: Dual
HEA:
Heat/Steam 2/5
Cliffhanger: . No.
Intolerable Heroine .No.
Über Douchebagery .No.
Taboo Subject Matter .yes rape and abuse.
Cheating or sex outside MC's:
Love Triangle
An incredibly sweet story with a very rare type of hero. You know, the kind that isn't your typical man-whore and doesn't enjoy meaningless sex.
This a great low angst story for my safety gang friends. My only complaint was the predictable plot twist. I think because I'm just so sick of reading it in ever single book I've read lately that it annoyed me. It wasn't a big deal just more of a pet peeve.
Orion was swoon worthy , kind, patient, and loving. Just love a hero that pursues the heroine (and only the heroine) relentlessly because he knows she's worth it.
January 12, 2015
How have I missed this series. I'm not usually one to read them out of order, but for some reason the blurb on this one just caught my eye - and thank goodness it did. What a fantastic book.
I adored Samara and Orion. They were the kind of couple that makes you feel all warm and squishy inside. Orion was not your typical alpha male hero. Don't get me wrong, no one would call him a beta - but he was just so genuine - sweet- caring and pretty much perfect you couldn't help fall in love with him.
I liked Samara too - she grew a lot during the book - from scared to strong. And for once it made sense.
I loved all the secondary characters - and the storyline about Orion's family just tugged on my heart strings.
Now I have to go back and start at the beginning. I'm thrilled to have found such a great new to me author.
I adored Samara and Orion. They were the kind of couple that makes you feel all warm and squishy inside. Orion was not your typical alpha male hero. Don't get me wrong, no one would call him a beta - but he was just so genuine - sweet- caring and pretty much perfect you couldn't help fall in love with him.
I liked Samara too - she grew a lot during the book - from scared to strong. And for once it made sense.
I loved all the secondary characters - and the storyline about Orion's family just tugged on my heart strings.
Now I have to go back and start at the beginning. I'm thrilled to have found such a great new to me author.
September 4, 2017
Another good book in the series. I am really enjoying this author's style of nice straight up contemporaries. What I like about her books is also that there are no contrived misunderstandings or huge blow-ups standing in the way of an HEA.
December 19, 2014
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
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The Fire & Ice series concludes and wraps up in its final installment of our beloved hockey players in the fifth and final book, Release. And Brenda Rothert not only deliver a book of perfection but she did it with so much grace and beauty. She will capture your attention with her eloquent, emotional, raw and heartwarming tale of Samara Cross and Orion Caldwell. In this breathtaking conclusion, Ms. Rothert will make your heart go pitter-patter for Orion and fall in love with the beauty of a love so simple and pure. Release will make you realize it’s not about finding love, but letting love find you. And in this beautiful tale, it will remind us all love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it. So be prepared as Brenda Rothert makes us see there is a reason why it’s called falling in love because you just fall.
It’s the off-season and Orion Caldwell heads back home to his hometown to spend time with his family. On the ice, Orion is known as the enforcer and the man to be feared for his defensive skills but once the uniform is off, he is the perfect gentleman. Unlike the previous male characters of the Fire & Ice Series, Orion is not your standard dirty-talking, dominant, and alpha male. I can only describe Orion as perfect. He is the perfect balance of sweet, caring, loving, and protective. Simply, he is the perfect book boyfriend. Back home, Orion wants to spend quality time with his niece and nephew. He is a family man and believes in loyalty, respect and love. He is a one woman kind of guy and doesn’t date or fool around. So when Orion heads to a local market, he didn’t expect to be enchanted with the woman behind the checkout. One look at her, he knew he wanted her because she had a beauty that affected him.
Samara Cross is not your typical heroine. She is shy, scared, and a little apprehensive when it comes to trust and giving away her heart. Samara’s past childhood and past abusive relationship has caused her to be wary of men. So when the hot NHL hockey player, takes notice of Samara, she wonders why her when there are tons of beautiful women for Orion Caldwell to take notice on. But through Orion’s persistence, he was able to worm his way into Samara’s life. And soon she finds herself letting go of the walls that she has built. Orion’s light shines bright and cast away any darkness in her life. For the first time in her life, she found someone who sees the beauty in her scars and pasts.
They say when you meet the love of your life times stops...well, that's true, when it comes to Orion and Samara. As romance fanatics, we love that happily ever after ending. But maybe its not about the happy ending. Maybe it’s about the story. And for Orion and Samara, their story is about a love so pure, true, honest, raw, and passionate. It’s a love that reminds us don’t look for someone who will solve all your problems but look for someone who won’t let you face them alone. And Orion and Samara were that couple.
Release is hands down my favorite of the series. This book was an absolute gem to read. Every sensual kiss, touch, and words spoke will spellbind you and make you fall in love. The beauty of this book was that it incorporated family, friends, brotherhood, sacrifices, and finding love and strength. So I want to thank Brenda Rothert for bringing life to these beloved characters that I cherish and have fallen in love with.
Brenda Rothert
**Review also posted on Four Chicks Flipping Pages**
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The Fire & Ice series concludes and wraps up in its final installment of our beloved hockey players in the fifth and final book, Release. And Brenda Rothert not only deliver a book of perfection but she did it with so much grace and beauty. She will capture your attention with her eloquent, emotional, raw and heartwarming tale of Samara Cross and Orion Caldwell. In this breathtaking conclusion, Ms. Rothert will make your heart go pitter-patter for Orion and fall in love with the beauty of a love so simple and pure. Release will make you realize it’s not about finding love, but letting love find you. And in this beautiful tale, it will remind us all love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it. So be prepared as Brenda Rothert makes us see there is a reason why it’s called falling in love because you just fall.
It’s the off-season and Orion Caldwell heads back home to his hometown to spend time with his family. On the ice, Orion is known as the enforcer and the man to be feared for his defensive skills but once the uniform is off, he is the perfect gentleman. Unlike the previous male characters of the Fire & Ice Series, Orion is not your standard dirty-talking, dominant, and alpha male. I can only describe Orion as perfect. He is the perfect balance of sweet, caring, loving, and protective. Simply, he is the perfect book boyfriend. Back home, Orion wants to spend quality time with his niece and nephew. He is a family man and believes in loyalty, respect and love. He is a one woman kind of guy and doesn’t date or fool around. So when Orion heads to a local market, he didn’t expect to be enchanted with the woman behind the checkout. One look at her, he knew he wanted her because she had a beauty that affected him.
Samara Cross is not your typical heroine. She is shy, scared, and a little apprehensive when it comes to trust and giving away her heart. Samara’s past childhood and past abusive relationship has caused her to be wary of men. So when the hot NHL hockey player, takes notice of Samara, she wonders why her when there are tons of beautiful women for Orion Caldwell to take notice on. But through Orion’s persistence, he was able to worm his way into Samara’s life. And soon she finds herself letting go of the walls that she has built. Orion’s light shines bright and cast away any darkness in her life. For the first time in her life, she found someone who sees the beauty in her scars and pasts.
They say when you meet the love of your life times stops...well, that's true, when it comes to Orion and Samara. As romance fanatics, we love that happily ever after ending. But maybe its not about the happy ending. Maybe it’s about the story. And for Orion and Samara, their story is about a love so pure, true, honest, raw, and passionate. It’s a love that reminds us don’t look for someone who will solve all your problems but look for someone who won’t let you face them alone. And Orion and Samara were that couple.
Release is hands down my favorite of the series. This book was an absolute gem to read. Every sensual kiss, touch, and words spoke will spellbind you and make you fall in love. The beauty of this book was that it incorporated family, friends, brotherhood, sacrifices, and finding love and strength. So I want to thank Brenda Rothert for bringing life to these beloved characters that I cherish and have fallen in love with.
Brenda Rothert
**Review also posted on Four Chicks Flipping Pages**
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July 27, 2017
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a sweet and easy read. If you want a feel good book with sweet characters, this is one for you. The drama that they did have to face was resolved pretty easily -- but not to the point where it felt unnaturally easy. It'd be a good book to read after an angsty or dark read to lighten you back up.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Samara and Orion's story. They went to high school together, but ran in different groups and hardly talked. When returning to his home town, Orion sees her again at the grocery store she works at. He is instantly drawn to her, and pursues a relationship. She is hesitant because he seems untouchable, and she has a shady past with an abusive ex. They work through some insecurities, have some sexy times, fall in love, deal with some major family issues, deal with some ex issues, and eventually get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Samara and Orion POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I didn't feel the need to skim, as it flowed well.
Instalove: I'd say yes, because feelings developed really quickly -- but it wasn't annoying like instalove usually is.
H rating: 4 stars. Orion. He was sweet and loyal. He cared for his family, friends, and Samara fiercely.
h rating: 4 stars. Samara. She was a damaged, but strong character. She was sweet and surprisingly not bitter from her bad past.
Sadness level: Moderate/low. I personally didn't need any tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry, but I wouldn't say it was really hot.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes. They use condoms
OW/OM drama: Minimal. The H has an ex that approaches the couple, but it is obvious that the H has no feelings for her at all since he automatically tells her to go away. She also approaches the h, but the h shuts her down pretty quickly too. It has no effect on the h and H's relationship either times.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had good closure with a HEA ending.
How I got it: I paid $3.99 on Amazon for it, and I'd say it's worth it if you want a sweet and light read.
Overall Opinion: This was a sweet and easy read. If you want a feel good book with sweet characters, this is one for you. The drama that they did have to face was resolved pretty easily -- but not to the point where it felt unnaturally easy. It'd be a good book to read after an angsty or dark read to lighten you back up.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Samara and Orion's story. They went to high school together, but ran in different groups and hardly talked. When returning to his home town, Orion sees her again at the grocery store she works at. He is instantly drawn to her, and pursues a relationship. She is hesitant because he seems untouchable, and she has a shady past with an abusive ex. They work through some insecurities, have some sexy times, fall in love, deal with some major family issues, deal with some ex issues, and eventually get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Samara and Orion POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I didn't feel the need to skim, as it flowed well.
Instalove: I'd say yes, because feelings developed really quickly -- but it wasn't annoying like instalove usually is.
H rating: 4 stars. Orion. He was sweet and loyal. He cared for his family, friends, and Samara fiercely.
h rating: 4 stars. Samara. She was a damaged, but strong character. She was sweet and surprisingly not bitter from her bad past.
Sadness level: Moderate/low. I personally didn't need any tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry, but I wouldn't say it was really hot.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes. They use condoms
OW/OM drama: Minimal. The H has an ex that approaches the couple, but it is obvious that the H has no feelings for her at all since he automatically tells her to go away. She also approaches the h, but the h shuts her down pretty quickly too. It has no effect on the h and H's relationship either times.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had good closure with a HEA ending.
How I got it: I paid $3.99 on Amazon for it, and I'd say it's worth it if you want a sweet and light read.
March 16, 2015
Really enjoyed this! And Orion was just amazing!!
May 31, 2019
Super sweet book. Exactly what I needed! Orion was such a great BBF. And, even with her issues, I liked Sam. She was sweet, insecure, but not annoying or TSTL. Refreshing! Totally safe read.
November 15, 2019
even though there is a lot of emotional stuff in this book, even some triggers this book is very cutesy...
I would just like to praise the pace of the story - it is a job well done!!!
I would just like to praise the pace of the story - it is a job well done!!!
December 22, 2014
4.5 stars
#live #loved #witty #powerful #mustclick http://amzn.to/1INVYRL
“I have one in my wallet.”
My lips parted in a surprised grin. “What are you waiting for?”
He pulled his wallet from his back pocket. “I just need to make sure it’s not expired.”
My heart swelled with love for him. In a world full of men looking for a quick lay, I’d found a gem who treasured the intimacy of sex.
“We’re good,” he said, grinning and tossing it to the bed.
Exclusive Bonus scene for Release by Brenda Rothert http://bit.ly/ShhBonusRelease
Come let Orion melt your heart in this book easily read stand alone
Make sure to enter the #giveaway
4.5 star REVIEW:
Release tells the story of NHL Enforcer, Orion Caldwell. I want to pause here and say this book can easily be read as a stand alone as Orion is a minor character seen in a prior book in the series. And although I love this series and Bound/Captive sit atop my top 2014 list, you can dive into this book if the blurb or review grabs you.
As I said Orion is an Enforcer on the ice, what that means is he is a protector. Ms. Rothert does an amazing job at crafting that personality off the ice as well. Orion truly loves fiercely, his family, his friends and his love interest, Samara Cross.
The author does a wonderful job at showing how love can heal; how I don’t want to tell you. The pain Orion and Samara each bring to the relationship is so enjoyable to watch play out but I will say it was truly well done and spoke volumes to what true love, a deep connection love, can bring you.
Orion is a truly make you smile, warm your heart and sometime make you giggle kind of character.
One of my favorite examples of a witty Orion:
“I have one in my wallet.”
My lips parted in a surprised grin. “What are you waiting for?”
He pulled his wallet from his back pocket. “I just need to make sure it’s not expired.”
My heart swelled with love for him. In a world full of men looking for a quick lay, I’d found a gem who treasured the intimacy of sex.
“We’re good,” he said, grinning and tossing it to the bed.
The hurt from past experiences was used in so many ways but mostly for me I loved how it was used to show the depth of Orion’s character; his true caring for Samara’s well being and his desire to love her for love.
The friendship and relationship these two develop before they end up in bed was amazingly well done!
This book also had some truly powerful scenes as well:
“Seriously,” he said in my ear. “I’m proud of you too. Your ass is gonna be sitting in a rocking chair with me one day talking about the old days when we played together. I love you.”
He pulled away and met my eyes one more time, his face streaked with tears.
“Love you too, brother,” I said. He nodded and turned for the door.
As this passage suggests, the road to happy does have some bumps in it, though the end is not the happy you would envision for Orion when you first meet him, it is so perfect and truly the embodiment of his being a protector and loving fiercely! And the why he is at “this" happy made me love him even more
I am excited this journey will lead us to a new spinoff series because I am very excited for Killian Bosch’s story!!!
#live #loved #witty #powerful #mustclick http://amzn.to/1INVYRL
“I have one in my wallet.”
My lips parted in a surprised grin. “What are you waiting for?”
He pulled his wallet from his back pocket. “I just need to make sure it’s not expired.”
My heart swelled with love for him. In a world full of men looking for a quick lay, I’d found a gem who treasured the intimacy of sex.
“We’re good,” he said, grinning and tossing it to the bed.
Exclusive Bonus scene for Release by Brenda Rothert http://bit.ly/ShhBonusRelease
Come let Orion melt your heart in this book easily read stand alone
Make sure to enter the #giveaway
4.5 star REVIEW:
Release tells the story of NHL Enforcer, Orion Caldwell. I want to pause here and say this book can easily be read as a stand alone as Orion is a minor character seen in a prior book in the series. And although I love this series and Bound/Captive sit atop my top 2014 list, you can dive into this book if the blurb or review grabs you.
As I said Orion is an Enforcer on the ice, what that means is he is a protector. Ms. Rothert does an amazing job at crafting that personality off the ice as well. Orion truly loves fiercely, his family, his friends and his love interest, Samara Cross.
The author does a wonderful job at showing how love can heal; how I don’t want to tell you. The pain Orion and Samara each bring to the relationship is so enjoyable to watch play out but I will say it was truly well done and spoke volumes to what true love, a deep connection love, can bring you.
Orion is a truly make you smile, warm your heart and sometime make you giggle kind of character.
One of my favorite examples of a witty Orion:
“I have one in my wallet.”
My lips parted in a surprised grin. “What are you waiting for?”
He pulled his wallet from his back pocket. “I just need to make sure it’s not expired.”
My heart swelled with love for him. In a world full of men looking for a quick lay, I’d found a gem who treasured the intimacy of sex.
“We’re good,” he said, grinning and tossing it to the bed.
The hurt from past experiences was used in so many ways but mostly for me I loved how it was used to show the depth of Orion’s character; his true caring for Samara’s well being and his desire to love her for love.
The friendship and relationship these two develop before they end up in bed was amazingly well done!
This book also had some truly powerful scenes as well:
“Seriously,” he said in my ear. “I’m proud of you too. Your ass is gonna be sitting in a rocking chair with me one day talking about the old days when we played together. I love you.”
He pulled away and met my eyes one more time, his face streaked with tears.
“Love you too, brother,” I said. He nodded and turned for the door.
As this passage suggests, the road to happy does have some bumps in it, though the end is not the happy you would envision for Orion when you first meet him, it is so perfect and truly the embodiment of his being a protector and loving fiercely! And the why he is at “this" happy made me love him even more
I am excited this journey will lead us to a new spinoff series because I am very excited for Killian Bosch’s story!!!
December 14, 2014
Orion comes home for the summer to help his mother and sister with her two children. He meets Samara a girl he new in school briefly. He finds himself attracted to her but she seems to be not interested at all. His ex Amy is still determined to get him back. Orion refused he wants to move on and he wants Samara to be the one. After much convincing she agrees to go out with him and finds he is not who she thought he was. But she scared because of her past can she give her heart to him and will he be faithful and stay. This story has emotion, strength and is beautifully written with care. Loved it
December 19, 2014
This series is fun but there no depth like the first book had. Without the first book I wouldn't have kept reading. There's also many times where the author contradicts what she said in previous books. Orion and niko met when Niko came to the NHL and Niko didn't date or sleep with anyone besides Sadie after that. However here in this book at he 67% mark she's got him boasting about being a man whore while he roomed with Orion. It never happened or he was a liar in his story book4. If I can remember this the author needs to keep her characters in character and remember too. It's very annoying to an avid reader
March 30, 2015
Loved it! Release was the perfect reading escape for me. Such a beautiful and sweet story. No over the top drama or angst in this book just a heartfelt story. Orion our hero is an amazing character. He would do anything for Samara and his family. Samara our heroine is wonderful too. Definitely one of my favorite reads of this year so far. Highly recommend.
January 10, 2017
I liked Orion and Samara. This was a cute book with some heavy issues. HEA!
July 22, 2019
I think what I really liked about this one was how down to earth Orion was. During his break he came home to help his family, instead of living the high life. Heck, he even slept in his old bedroom at home in the basement. Samara was interesting and just the person for Orion. He needed someone just as down to earth as he was, someone that knew what was really important. I loved the way that Orion went slow with Samara and how once things heated up they both were all in. Even when their relationship went long distance it was something they both wanted.
I was a bit stunned with the choice that Orion made at the end. It was a huge sacrifice, yet it fit him to a T that he made the choice without any remorse.
I was a bit stunned with the choice that Orion made at the end. It was a huge sacrifice, yet it fit him to a T that he made the choice without any remorse.
March 23, 2015
4.5 Stars
This is the final book in the Fire on Ice series by Brenda Rothert and like all the other books I enjoyed it immensely. It’s now off season and Orion Caldwell has gone home for the summer. He’s staying at his family home and is there to help out with his niece and nephew, his sisters children, after their father takes off on the family. He is a little leery as he had a bad break-up not long ago and his ex is still living in his home town. He meets Samara Cross, our heroine, who is working as a check out/cake designer at the local supermarket. To say she is skittish is putting it mildly. Orion vaguely remembers her from high school and her stand offish attitude intrigues him. Being a professional hockey player, he’s not used to being turned down. Now that he’s a player or anything, unlike some of his team mates. He’s loyal and genuine and just a real good guy. He finally convinces Samara to give him a chance and they slowly fall in love. Samara has had some bad stuff happen in her past and she has good reason to be leery of getting into a relationship but Orion is so gentle and so patient, she learns to trust him.
This is the least hectic of the series, maybe because it takes place on the off season. I only had one quibble. We first meet Orion in the previous book and when asked, he said he was from Canada. Yet in this book he only lives an hour or so away from Chicago, where the big league team plays. The author never really specifies where his hometown is – but I have my doubts it’s in Canada otherwise I’m sure she would have mentioned it. But that’s minor.
Another thing I would like to say – the author mentions that until she started writing this series she didn’t know much at all about hockey. I’m impressed at how well she seemed to “get” it. She has a new series about a minor league team and Orion will be playing a role I think, in the next series after a major sacrifice he made towards the end of this book.
I have been very pleased with this whole series and for anyone interested, the boxed set is available on Kindle for $4.89 at Amazon.co, $6.25 at Amazon.ca. It burns my butt the difference in price but still $6.25 is still a good price for 5 very good books. I bought them one at a time so it cost me more.
This is the final book in the Fire on Ice series by Brenda Rothert and like all the other books I enjoyed it immensely. It’s now off season and Orion Caldwell has gone home for the summer. He’s staying at his family home and is there to help out with his niece and nephew, his sisters children, after their father takes off on the family. He is a little leery as he had a bad break-up not long ago and his ex is still living in his home town. He meets Samara Cross, our heroine, who is working as a check out/cake designer at the local supermarket. To say she is skittish is putting it mildly. Orion vaguely remembers her from high school and her stand offish attitude intrigues him. Being a professional hockey player, he’s not used to being turned down. Now that he’s a player or anything, unlike some of his team mates. He’s loyal and genuine and just a real good guy. He finally convinces Samara to give him a chance and they slowly fall in love. Samara has had some bad stuff happen in her past and she has good reason to be leery of getting into a relationship but Orion is so gentle and so patient, she learns to trust him.
This is the least hectic of the series, maybe because it takes place on the off season. I only had one quibble. We first meet Orion in the previous book and when asked, he said he was from Canada. Yet in this book he only lives an hour or so away from Chicago, where the big league team plays. The author never really specifies where his hometown is – but I have my doubts it’s in Canada otherwise I’m sure she would have mentioned it. But that’s minor.
Another thing I would like to say – the author mentions that until she started writing this series she didn’t know much at all about hockey. I’m impressed at how well she seemed to “get” it. She has a new series about a minor league team and Orion will be playing a role I think, in the next series after a major sacrifice he made towards the end of this book.
I have been very pleased with this whole series and for anyone interested, the boxed set is available on Kindle for $4.89 at Amazon.co, $6.25 at Amazon.ca. It burns my butt the difference in price but still $6.25 is still a good price for 5 very good books. I bought them one at a time so it cost me more.
December 15, 2014
Beautiful ending to an awesome series!
I am not a hockey fan, not even a bit. But with this series and with this author, you don’t need to be. This author has mastered the perfect cocktail of great character development and in-depth storylines. You will be glued to this journey from beginning to end.
Release brings our focus to Orion. On the ice, he is an enforcer. He’s tough, competitive, and driven. But off the ice, he is patient, caring, and so sweet that your teeth will ache!
Samara keeps to herself. She holds two jobs and spends the rest of her time held up in her apartment. She lives in fear of the past and is beyond cautious of not only her safety, but of her emotions.
When these two collide, there is an attraction that is too difficult to fight.
Release is full of emotional heartache and angst. But what outshines all of that is the strength to move on from the past and accept the happily ever after that is awaiting these two characters.
In this final installment of the Fire On Ice series, we are also treated with past characters that stole our hearts in previous installments. The author wove them into the storyline perfectly!
I highly recommend not only this book, but the entire series.
Book 1 – Bound
Book 2 – Captive
Book 3 – Edge
Book 4 - Drive
January 8, 2015
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. This was a very good ending story to a series about professional hockey players. Very good but I don't know what it is about these books they just don't quite work for me. The heroine in this case was a shy grocery clerk who the hockey player had gone to high school with but barely paid attention to. Now, after having her check him out at the store he's pretty much in instant lust and it just builds from there. About every quarter of the book a new revelation about the grocery clerk's former life comes forward, each one worse than the last, which should make your heart bleed for her but I just found it irritating that she couldn't just put her cards on the table.
Orion, the hockey player, was almost too good to be true. Loving her no matter what and making a great sacrifice on behalf of his ill nephew.
So we have a heroine almost too tragic to be true and an alpha male hockey player almost too wonderful to be true. I had a hard time melding them together. But it still was a good story so I give it 3.5 stars.
Orion, the hockey player, was almost too good to be true. Loving her no matter what and making a great sacrifice on behalf of his ill nephew.
So we have a heroine almost too tragic to be true and an alpha male hockey player almost too wonderful to be true. I had a hard time melding them together. But it still was a good story so I give it 3.5 stars.
December 14, 2014
Brenda has seriously killed it with this book. This is such a hard topic to tackle (sexual abuse) and I really think she hit the nail on the head with how Samara felt and reacted to everything. Every woman deserves an Orion who understands her pasts, and instead of judging her, helps her past it. Truly and amazingly written and heart-filling story. So happy for Samara!
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