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In the Zone #3
Out of the Game
Alex Sullivan may be the San Diego Barracudas' resident playboy, but he hasn't been able to forget the woman who kissed him like her life depended on it ten months ago. When he sees her again at a teammate's wedding, he can't think of anything but spending more time with her. Preferably naked.
Claire Marzano lost years catering to an overbearing husband, and she's not going to answer to anyone ever again. A hot fling is just what she needs to get back in the game, and that's exactly what sexy Alex offers—one wild long weekend away, with no promises or obligations.
But that one weekend changes everything. Despite knowing full well Alex isn't the kind to ever commit, Claire is falling for him. And Alex secretly imagines a future with his strong, smart "accidental girlfriend." Until a surprise announcement and an on-ice accident threaten to derail everything…or cause Alex to finally ditch his old ways and become the man Claire needs him to be.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2015
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974 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 30, 2015
2.5 - 3 stars. I liked this book until "the surprise" and "on ice accident." Then Alex reverts to being a childish, immature, asshole. I liked Claire & Alex both before the two plot twists. And Claire should've made Alex crawl through broken glass in the Australian outback surrounded by all of that continent's poisonous critters before she forgave him. That's what I would've demanded for penance, but I'm inventive & kind like that.
March 16, 2015
My Review:
One of the best things I ever did was start reading Kate Willoughby's hockey series. I love these guys and these stories. Yes, it's a series and as a series, you come to expect a certain style to each of the books. What Kate Willoughby does brilliantly though in her series is that she gives each individual book its own sense of style and rhythm. It's really a remarkable skill that I'm envious of as a writer.
That defining difference in this book really comes down to Alex and the interesting way she's written his character. Alex is not a complex guy. He likes junk food, breasts, and hockey. He's pretty basic about those things. Oh, and he is a bit of a movie buff which I found incredibly endearing...it doesn't matter if it When Harry Met Sally or the Terminator. This is a guy who can quote and talk about movies for hours...even the chick flicks. He's just a normal guy...who just happens to play with the NHL, but he's well aware that he's not the deepest guy around and he's okay with that...usually. He doesn't figure he'll ever have a long-term relationship, so it really doesn't matter. He's okay with who he is.
Claire spent 10 years married to a douche and doing everything in her life to please him. From how she looked and dressed to what functions she went to...those things were all chosen based on his desires. So once the divorce if final, she's ready to have some light-hearted fun and happy times. Something that makes her happy for once. And that's where Alex comes in. Alex may not be that deep of a guy, but he's a pro athlete, so he's sexy as hell. And they simply have fun together.
This is a relationship that starts out as a weekend fling that morphs into a summer romance, and then becomes deeper. It covers over a year in time so although it may not seem like it, the relationship has a lot of time to deepen and develop. I liked that about it. I also really liked the fact that Alex is not your typical Alpha male that you find in romance novels. He felt like a normal guy which made the whole story feel more real. He really has a thing for Claire's breasts...to the point where I'd be laughing at him. Because as long as her breasts are there, this guy is pretty much happy with the status quo. It was cute and even a little endearing.
There's emotion to this story too, though. And I thought that Kate Willoughby did a brilliant job bringing all those emotions to the forefront. Even while my heart was breaking I was loving the twists to the story line. Just really good, heart-wrenching writing.
I definitely recommend this one and the entire series. They certainly all work as stand-alones, but every book is good so I think you'll want to read them all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
One of the best things I ever did was start reading Kate Willoughby's hockey series. I love these guys and these stories. Yes, it's a series and as a series, you come to expect a certain style to each of the books. What Kate Willoughby does brilliantly though in her series is that she gives each individual book its own sense of style and rhythm. It's really a remarkable skill that I'm envious of as a writer.
That defining difference in this book really comes down to Alex and the interesting way she's written his character. Alex is not a complex guy. He likes junk food, breasts, and hockey. He's pretty basic about those things. Oh, and he is a bit of a movie buff which I found incredibly endearing...it doesn't matter if it When Harry Met Sally or the Terminator. This is a guy who can quote and talk about movies for hours...even the chick flicks. He's just a normal guy...who just happens to play with the NHL, but he's well aware that he's not the deepest guy around and he's okay with that...usually. He doesn't figure he'll ever have a long-term relationship, so it really doesn't matter. He's okay with who he is.
Claire spent 10 years married to a douche and doing everything in her life to please him. From how she looked and dressed to what functions she went to...those things were all chosen based on his desires. So once the divorce if final, she's ready to have some light-hearted fun and happy times. Something that makes her happy for once. And that's where Alex comes in. Alex may not be that deep of a guy, but he's a pro athlete, so he's sexy as hell. And they simply have fun together.
This is a relationship that starts out as a weekend fling that morphs into a summer romance, and then becomes deeper. It covers over a year in time so although it may not seem like it, the relationship has a lot of time to deepen and develop. I liked that about it. I also really liked the fact that Alex is not your typical Alpha male that you find in romance novels. He felt like a normal guy which made the whole story feel more real. He really has a thing for Claire's breasts...to the point where I'd be laughing at him. Because as long as her breasts are there, this guy is pretty much happy with the status quo. It was cute and even a little endearing.
There's emotion to this story too, though. And I thought that Kate Willoughby did a brilliant job bringing all those emotions to the forefront. Even while my heart was breaking I was loving the twists to the story line. Just really good, heart-wrenching writing.
I definitely recommend this one and the entire series. They certainly all work as stand-alones, but every book is good so I think you'll want to read them all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
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March 10, 2015DNF'ing. After a week, I don't care or have any interest in finishing this book. The hero was way too immature and I was too far into the book to not be connected in some way to the story or the characters.
March 7, 2020
2.5 stars. I thought Calder would be my least favorite hero of the series, but then Alex tops the list with this one. From the start, the more "unwoke" elements in the writing style bothered me, in how Alex was described as a playboy sowing his oats type of character, women are objects kind of language tossed around casually throughout, he's written as the bro-est of bros not in a way I find still endearing. (His love of movies is an interesting detail about him at least, and the dumb tie prank, sprinkled elements of team, was fun.)
The writing doesn't exactly fit in with my views, exemplified when Erin gives birth and doesn't tell Tim who is at an away game, and it's framed as the right thing to do- the father maybe wanting to be at the birth was irrelevant anyway. Overall I just disagreed on any of the plot to do with children here and how the characters deal with impending parenthood and their parenting roles.
Then I didn't understand how our heroine Erin's sister Claire, previously having extended appearance, is so different for Alex to all the other women he's just slept with, that he's now going to be reformed and will fully commit to Claire. Seemed for me that she just got out of a long marriage that defined her twenties and now she's jumping into this one with this unstable playboy. Her art consultation/ society housewife background was a bit confusing/unrealistic and not all that compelling to me. The differing angles in points of view of the same event, namely Tim and Erin's wedding, that was shown in Calder and Becca's book, also got repetitive for me since I had read all the books in a row.
The worst and ultimate dealbreaker in enjoyment of the couple and story was the conflict, where after realistic but dull crawl of months passing by in the narration and showing his progressive mood downturns, Alex reverts to just being a total douche when he has a career ending injury and forcibly retires suddenly. He becomes depressed and turns inward, becomes angry, just as the plot has a conveniently placed Accidental Pregnancy plotline, and Calder is violent and wants to be a deadbeat father the very moment he and Claire have a Bad Fight.
They make up once Claire gives birth and they're back together, a happy family, happy ever after. Parts of the story are just dragged out and bogged down, then their conflict and resolving just ends the book and it's so abrupt- not enough groveling by Alex honestly. Needless to say I did not think Alex and Claire were #couplegoals in the slightest, and it wasn't even deliciously angsty or a hard-fought relationship if it wasn't going down the smooth sailing path.
The writing doesn't exactly fit in with my views, exemplified when Erin gives birth and doesn't tell Tim who is at an away game, and it's framed as the right thing to do- the father maybe wanting to be at the birth was irrelevant anyway. Overall I just disagreed on any of the plot to do with children here and how the characters deal with impending parenthood and their parenting roles.
Then I didn't understand how our heroine Erin's sister Claire, previously having extended appearance, is so different for Alex to all the other women he's just slept with, that he's now going to be reformed and will fully commit to Claire. Seemed for me that she just got out of a long marriage that defined her twenties and now she's jumping into this one with this unstable playboy. Her art consultation/ society housewife background was a bit confusing/unrealistic and not all that compelling to me. The differing angles in points of view of the same event, namely Tim and Erin's wedding, that was shown in Calder and Becca's book, also got repetitive for me since I had read all the books in a row.
The worst and ultimate dealbreaker in enjoyment of the couple and story was the conflict, where after realistic but dull crawl of months passing by in the narration and showing his progressive mood downturns, Alex reverts to just being a total douche when he has a career ending injury and forcibly retires suddenly. He becomes depressed and turns inward, becomes angry, just as the plot has a conveniently placed Accidental Pregnancy plotline, and Calder is violent and wants to be a deadbeat father the very moment he and Claire have a Bad Fight.
They make up once Claire gives birth and they're back together, a happy family, happy ever after. Parts of the story are just dragged out and bogged down, then their conflict and resolving just ends the book and it's so abrupt- not enough groveling by Alex honestly. Needless to say I did not think Alex and Claire were #couplegoals in the slightest, and it wasn't even deliciously angsty or a hard-fought relationship if it wasn't going down the smooth sailing path.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2015
Received an ARC for review
I didn't hate, but I didn't absolutely love it either. It's a very sweet love story with emotional angst all around. It was very slow moving and bogged down in spots. I loved how they were always quoting movies or taking about movies and different scenes. It was nice to see all the old gang again.
I didn't hate, but I didn't absolutely love it either. It's a very sweet love story with emotional angst all around. It was very slow moving and bogged down in spots. I loved how they were always quoting movies or taking about movies and different scenes. It was nice to see all the old gang again.
February 4, 2015
Super cute story. Funny banter with Claire and Alex. Loved the team and the pranks they play. The best was the cream puffs that covered Alex's car lol. The story wasn't rushed and the epilogue was a nice treat. I can't wait to read more of this series. I wonder who will be the next to fall ;-)
March 21, 2015
I was very surprised by the emotional depth of this particular book. In the first two book of the In the Zone series, there was a very strong emotional core of every book, but this book in particular struck me as very strong.
The story follows Alex, the resident playboy of the Barracudas team and how he comes to terms with having an actual relationship. His growth and development through the book absolutely fascinated me. His love interest is Claire, the sister of the love interest in On the Surface. Claire is recovering from a bad divorce of her ten year marriage that happened at the end of On the Surface. Her healing and getting back in to dating is good to read about as well, but I think Alex was by far the more interesting character. There is the normal hassling he receives from his teammates, running in to exes, and learning to share his life with another person. He is also dealing with issues from his past that really make you feel for him and hope he makes things work with Claire. It was fun, though, to see Claire grow into being a strong hockey girlfriend and learn to spread her wings after her divorce. She even organizes a fundraising event I though was awesome. You also get a better feel for the team dynamics in this book. It is interesting to get to know the other players a little better. I am hoping some of the others get a book soon. Hart and Jeremy also play a minor role in this book which was nice to see, but they are more prominent in Across the Line.
Like the other books, there is a lot of hockey in it which is nice for fans. Granted, it's not a huge lot, as it is a novella, but it is definitely a part of the story and it is integrated beautifully. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for an intense, beautiful read for a day. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading On the Surface first. There are a few things you learn in it that makes things in this book a little more clear. This book parallels with the second book Across the Line. The story lines are occurring at the same time. It is definitely a good romance without tripping over into erotic, which is great for a romance novella. It is even hard for me to classify this as a novella as it is a rather long one, which I thoroughly appreciated with the strong development of the story.
https://bookmouseblog.wordpress.com/2...
The story follows Alex, the resident playboy of the Barracudas team and how he comes to terms with having an actual relationship. His growth and development through the book absolutely fascinated me. His love interest is Claire, the sister of the love interest in On the Surface. Claire is recovering from a bad divorce of her ten year marriage that happened at the end of On the Surface. Her healing and getting back in to dating is good to read about as well, but I think Alex was by far the more interesting character. There is the normal hassling he receives from his teammates, running in to exes, and learning to share his life with another person. He is also dealing with issues from his past that really make you feel for him and hope he makes things work with Claire. It was fun, though, to see Claire grow into being a strong hockey girlfriend and learn to spread her wings after her divorce. She even organizes a fundraising event I though was awesome. You also get a better feel for the team dynamics in this book. It is interesting to get to know the other players a little better. I am hoping some of the others get a book soon. Hart and Jeremy also play a minor role in this book which was nice to see, but they are more prominent in Across the Line.
Like the other books, there is a lot of hockey in it which is nice for fans. Granted, it's not a huge lot, as it is a novella, but it is definitely a part of the story and it is integrated beautifully. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for an intense, beautiful read for a day. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading On the Surface first. There are a few things you learn in it that makes things in this book a little more clear. This book parallels with the second book Across the Line. The story lines are occurring at the same time. It is definitely a good romance without tripping over into erotic, which is great for a romance novella. It is even hard for me to classify this as a novella as it is a rather long one, which I thoroughly appreciated with the strong development of the story.
https://bookmouseblog.wordpress.com/2...
June 6, 2016
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
The In the Zone series by Kate Willoughby just keeps getting better and better. The 3rd book of this series (4th book if you're counting the novella) may very well be my favorite. Call me a romantic, but I love a story where the male protagonist is all cocky, brash and sure of himself on the surface, yet needs the love of a good woman to heal the scars and ease the insecurities that are hiding beneath. Out of the Game satisfied my love of this kind of story in a huge way!
Alex Sullivan is the say anything, do anything member of the Barracudas. He's known for his outrageousness and man-whore ways, but also as a team player that is loyal to the Barracudas, his friends and to the sport of hockey. That seems to be the extent of where his loyalties lie. After all he's never had a relationship last past the off-season and that is by choice. His choice. I really, really loved Alex! I couldn't wait to see what he was going to say next. Heck the thoughts he had and comments he said in his head made me laugh out loud. And when he happened into a relationship with Claire before he even realized it my thought was it was so Alex.
Claire Marzano deserves sainthood. No seriously she does. She had been hurt pretty bad by her former husband, but was adult enough to accept her part in the marriage failing. When she decided out of the blue to run off and have some fun with Alex she thought she was doing it with her eyes wide open. She knew his reputation, but also felt that a fling would be safe enough. She wasn't prepared for his sweet and soft side. Heck, she didn't even know he had a sweet and soft side. But, it sucked her right in and made her lose her heart before she even realized what was happening. And actually things were going pretty darned good, too. Then the unthinkable happened and Alex became someone else entirely. My heart broke for both of them. I couldn't have taken a side if I tried.
This couple went through so much more than most couples ever will and it seemed to have happened all at the same time. I loved how they worked it out and worked through it. Of course, in true Alex form it was hilariously frazzled and went sideways, but it was great to read and such a satisfying end.
You can find this review and others at Books, Chocolate and Lipgloss
The In the Zone series by Kate Willoughby just keeps getting better and better. The 3rd book of this series (4th book if you're counting the novella) may very well be my favorite. Call me a romantic, but I love a story where the male protagonist is all cocky, brash and sure of himself on the surface, yet needs the love of a good woman to heal the scars and ease the insecurities that are hiding beneath. Out of the Game satisfied my love of this kind of story in a huge way!
Alex Sullivan is the say anything, do anything member of the Barracudas. He's known for his outrageousness and man-whore ways, but also as a team player that is loyal to the Barracudas, his friends and to the sport of hockey. That seems to be the extent of where his loyalties lie. After all he's never had a relationship last past the off-season and that is by choice. His choice. I really, really loved Alex! I couldn't wait to see what he was going to say next. Heck the thoughts he had and comments he said in his head made me laugh out loud. And when he happened into a relationship with Claire before he even realized it my thought was it was so Alex.
Claire Marzano deserves sainthood. No seriously she does. She had been hurt pretty bad by her former husband, but was adult enough to accept her part in the marriage failing. When she decided out of the blue to run off and have some fun with Alex she thought she was doing it with her eyes wide open. She knew his reputation, but also felt that a fling would be safe enough. She wasn't prepared for his sweet and soft side. Heck, she didn't even know he had a sweet and soft side. But, it sucked her right in and made her lose her heart before she even realized what was happening. And actually things were going pretty darned good, too. Then the unthinkable happened and Alex became someone else entirely. My heart broke for both of them. I couldn't have taken a side if I tried.
This couple went through so much more than most couples ever will and it seemed to have happened all at the same time. I loved how they worked it out and worked through it. Of course, in true Alex form it was hilariously frazzled and went sideways, but it was great to read and such a satisfying end.
You can find this review and others at Books, Chocolate and Lipgloss
February 20, 2015
OUT OF THE GAME is a delightful, light hearted story about a sexy, professional hockey player. Alex is a playboy hockey player who has never had a relationship last longer than a month or two, but things change when he meets Claire. Claire has just gone through a divorce, after discovering her husband of ten years cheated on her. She doesn’t have a lot of confidence and has a bad attitude when it comes to men and relationships. Alex is attracted to Claire and suggests they spend time together to help her get over the pain of her divorce. He’d be happy to be her rebound guy, so she can forget her cheating husband. There’s a lot of chemistry between them and Claire agrees to have a fling with Alex. Neither of them is looking for anything permanent, but as time goes on and they continue to spend more time together, they are surprised to find they are becoming closer.
Alex is easy to like, he’s a fun, carefree guy and also works hard to be a great hockey player. He’s nearing the end of his career and is finally maturing and for the first time in his life, he’s forced to make some tough decisions. He’s surprised by his strong feelings for Claire. He understands Claire needs time and patience and he gives it to her. Claire is a nice person, but unfortunately she was married to a jerk and she’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie Alex has with his teammates. They are always trash talking and playing pranks on each other and everyone has a nickname. Kate Willoughby writes a fast paced story that held my interest from the first page. Alex and Claire immediately click and there is a lot of passion between them. I connected with the characters and was sorry when the story ended.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
Alex is easy to like, he’s a fun, carefree guy and also works hard to be a great hockey player. He’s nearing the end of his career and is finally maturing and for the first time in his life, he’s forced to make some tough decisions. He’s surprised by his strong feelings for Claire. He understands Claire needs time and patience and he gives it to her. Claire is a nice person, but unfortunately she was married to a jerk and she’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie Alex has with his teammates. They are always trash talking and playing pranks on each other and everyone has a nickname. Kate Willoughby writes a fast paced story that held my interest from the first page. Alex and Claire immediately click and there is a lot of passion between them. I connected with the characters and was sorry when the story ended.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
January 26, 2015
Alex he's a funny guy he gets all excited when his woman insults him, "Alex beamed. "That's my girl!" he said to the attendant. "I taught her that." He likes to give his woman compliments, "Claire, baby...that's so unbelievably good. You effing suck me so good." He's also not a patient man when it comes to waiting for his woman, "he'd been waiting forever. What the hell could she be doing in there? What the eff kind of grooming took that long?" I liked this book. I enjoyed the story and Alex.
Read
January 22, 2019I wanted to like this book because Alex was obviously a "hidden depths" character ... [and I'd just read and enjoyed the other book "The Scheme" with the same premise - Ben!]
But ... the raging bitch heroine - who I GET had issues/was going through a LOT but ... no.
also ... omfg the 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮 description of pork belly.
Like ... the annoying ragging on "fancy food."
I LIKE pork belly and that made me want to vomit.
It was just a lot/too much.
Maybe if someone in my reading circle highly recommends this book/tells me to give it more of a try ... but ... I gave it 10% today, and I'm out.
But ... the raging bitch heroine - who I GET had issues/was going through a LOT but ... no.
also ... omfg the 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮 description of pork belly.
Like ... the annoying ragging on "fancy food."
I LIKE pork belly and that made me want to vomit.
It was just a lot/too much.
Maybe if someone in my reading circle highly recommends this book/tells me to give it more of a try ... but ... I gave it 10% today, and I'm out.
March 16, 2015
Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
I’m a sucker for a story where the “bad boy” falls for the “good girl” and Out of the Game by Kate Willoughby pretty much fits that description. A self admitted party animal man-whore NHL hockey players lives for the game, a few too many drinks after the game, junk food, and all the female flesh he can get his hands on until he is confronted by a woman who ten months ago enthralled him right before she left him in the dust. From beginning to end I was caught up in their story; I got excited at their first “non-date”, I laughed at their vacation bargaining, I cheered as they reached the top of Angel’s Landing, and I cried at a few different spots in this book, but most of all I loved watching these two go from being friends, to a “summer fling” to so much more. This story was a journey and it was pretty damn amazing.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like Alex Sullivan at first; he seemed kind of swarmy, way too sure of himself, and a wee bit conceited but he won me over with his incredible quick wit, his love of movies including romcoms, and the fact that if you looked closely underneath you could see someone who despite outward appearances has a little bit of a self worth issue. He was absolutely adorable in her pursuit of Claire Marzano his best friend’s sister in law. It became evident pretty early on that she wasn’t like his usual women and for some reason he was okay with that and set out to just enjoy the time she allowed him to spend with her.
There’s no doubt that Claire didn’t deserve a now ex-husband that cheated on her but she’s put it past her and she’s taken control over her life once again something she lost in her 10 year marriage. Seeing Alex again and her sister’s rehearsal dinner reminds her of the night she made a fool of herself yet she also can’t deny remembering the heat of their kiss or the way he backed off when she needed him to. I liked Claire she was way stronger than even she believed and I love that she didn’t let Alex’s bad behavior slide. She’s floundering a little bit in her life but as she takes on projects through an art museum she begins to flourish and gain her self confidence back and she starts to realize that it is time to take a chance and Alex “anti-commitment” Sullivan is the perfect man to show her how.
There was something so charming about the way Alex was able to convince Claire to take chances and try new things. I loved their spontaneous trip to Utah and while I beg to differ that Bryce Canyon looks anything like Grand Canyon having spent many times in both parks, I did enjoy their adventures in Zion (another favorite of mine) and the fact that the area became someplace very special to them as time went on. I like that Claire seemed to ground Alex without even trying; she didn’t push her way into his life their lives just seemed to easily intertwine without any real issues. As for their intimate moments, let’s just say Claire made up for all the years of less than great sex and Alex was more than happy to help her.
They had some so intense moments and even one pretty big blow up but give the circumstances behind that one I could see it from both sides and understand their actions at the time. I really appreciated that these two communicated really well though most of this book and that they both were quick to own up to their mistakes and try and make it right with the other.
Out of the Game is one of those romances that is sweet, funny, and sexy and sometimes all at the same time and for me it was a winner. I loved this book, this couple and their journey and it is my favorite in the series to date.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
I’m a sucker for a story where the “bad boy” falls for the “good girl” and Out of the Game by Kate Willoughby pretty much fits that description. A self admitted party animal man-whore NHL hockey players lives for the game, a few too many drinks after the game, junk food, and all the female flesh he can get his hands on until he is confronted by a woman who ten months ago enthralled him right before she left him in the dust. From beginning to end I was caught up in their story; I got excited at their first “non-date”, I laughed at their vacation bargaining, I cheered as they reached the top of Angel’s Landing, and I cried at a few different spots in this book, but most of all I loved watching these two go from being friends, to a “summer fling” to so much more. This story was a journey and it was pretty damn amazing.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like Alex Sullivan at first; he seemed kind of swarmy, way too sure of himself, and a wee bit conceited but he won me over with his incredible quick wit, his love of movies including romcoms, and the fact that if you looked closely underneath you could see someone who despite outward appearances has a little bit of a self worth issue. He was absolutely adorable in her pursuit of Claire Marzano his best friend’s sister in law. It became evident pretty early on that she wasn’t like his usual women and for some reason he was okay with that and set out to just enjoy the time she allowed him to spend with her.
There’s no doubt that Claire didn’t deserve a now ex-husband that cheated on her but she’s put it past her and she’s taken control over her life once again something she lost in her 10 year marriage. Seeing Alex again and her sister’s rehearsal dinner reminds her of the night she made a fool of herself yet she also can’t deny remembering the heat of their kiss or the way he backed off when she needed him to. I liked Claire she was way stronger than even she believed and I love that she didn’t let Alex’s bad behavior slide. She’s floundering a little bit in her life but as she takes on projects through an art museum she begins to flourish and gain her self confidence back and she starts to realize that it is time to take a chance and Alex “anti-commitment” Sullivan is the perfect man to show her how.
There was something so charming about the way Alex was able to convince Claire to take chances and try new things. I loved their spontaneous trip to Utah and while I beg to differ that Bryce Canyon looks anything like Grand Canyon having spent many times in both parks, I did enjoy their adventures in Zion (another favorite of mine) and the fact that the area became someplace very special to them as time went on. I like that Claire seemed to ground Alex without even trying; she didn’t push her way into his life their lives just seemed to easily intertwine without any real issues. As for their intimate moments, let’s just say Claire made up for all the years of less than great sex and Alex was more than happy to help her.
They had some so intense moments and even one pretty big blow up but give the circumstances behind that one I could see it from both sides and understand their actions at the time. I really appreciated that these two communicated really well though most of this book and that they both were quick to own up to their mistakes and try and make it right with the other.
Out of the Game is one of those romances that is sweet, funny, and sexy and sometimes all at the same time and for me it was a winner. I loved this book, this couple and their journey and it is my favorite in the series to date.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
February 11, 2015
I received an ARC for a honest opinion.
This is a contemporary romance about Alex and Claire.
Alex is a professional hockey player, no nonsense "say what you mean" kind of guy and ladies man, His team is his family.
Claire is just coming out of a divorce after 10 years of marriage. She does some volunteer work at a local Museum and loves what she does. She also finds she is very good at planning events.
Claire's sister Erin is marrying Tim, Alex's best friend and team member. She has met Alex before but they have had "limited contact". There is a pun there but you have to read the book! Claire is the Maid of Honor and Alex the best man.
At the Wedding reception they spend some time together. He, being the ladies man he is, asks her to go away with him for a couple of days. She automatically refuses him but he tells her to think about it. She does and decides to go. She could use a few days away and she knows he will just be a fling since he grows tired of his women quickly.
And so the story goes.....
I loved this book. Alex gave me so many "laugh out loud" moments. He is constantly cursing and I mean cursing but you can soon tell it is because he is used to being with the team and not because he is trying to be rude or tacky. He even teaches Claire to "chirp" which is to come right back with an insult. It is funny!
Alex's family situation isn't the best. His mom took off when he was a kid and his father was abusive toward him. Claire's parents died in a car accident when she was 19. leaving her with her younger sister and two brothers.
I loved these characters! You can see the subtle changes in them as the relationship continues. They are in love with one another but are afraid. Alex really fights the feelings. Then unexpected things happen and they both have to make some decisions that will change their lives as these are life altering circumstances.
This is a great book, I would definitely recommend it! Than you for the opportunity to read it!
This is a contemporary romance about Alex and Claire.
Alex is a professional hockey player, no nonsense "say what you mean" kind of guy and ladies man, His team is his family.
Claire is just coming out of a divorce after 10 years of marriage. She does some volunteer work at a local Museum and loves what she does. She also finds she is very good at planning events.
Claire's sister Erin is marrying Tim, Alex's best friend and team member. She has met Alex before but they have had "limited contact". There is a pun there but you have to read the book! Claire is the Maid of Honor and Alex the best man.
At the Wedding reception they spend some time together. He, being the ladies man he is, asks her to go away with him for a couple of days. She automatically refuses him but he tells her to think about it. She does and decides to go. She could use a few days away and she knows he will just be a fling since he grows tired of his women quickly.
And so the story goes.....
I loved this book. Alex gave me so many "laugh out loud" moments. He is constantly cursing and I mean cursing but you can soon tell it is because he is used to being with the team and not because he is trying to be rude or tacky. He even teaches Claire to "chirp" which is to come right back with an insult. It is funny!
Alex's family situation isn't the best. His mom took off when he was a kid and his father was abusive toward him. Claire's parents died in a car accident when she was 19. leaving her with her younger sister and two brothers.
I loved these characters! You can see the subtle changes in them as the relationship continues. They are in love with one another but are afraid. Alex really fights the feelings. Then unexpected things happen and they both have to make some decisions that will change their lives as these are life altering circumstances.
This is a great book, I would definitely recommend it! Than you for the opportunity to read it!
January 12, 2016
**An ARC was provided by the author via Netgalley**
4.5 stars!!
So, naturally I love sports romance novels. Especially if it's Hockey since I love Hockey and all. And the fact that they mentioned Canada here and there with some jokes really was great.
So this book can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first two and I wasn't really lost. But I would advise you reading the first two to know more about the characters in the book.
So, Alex is a hockey player who is also a San Diego Barracudas' playboy. He has never had a relationship that lasts longer than a month or so. So when he meets Claire, things start changing. Claire had just gone through a divorce with a man who she married to for 10 years. When he betrayed her in the worst possible way, she had to leave.
Alex's best friend Tim is married to Claire's sister so they were going to meet eventually. So when Claire offers to have fun, he's all up for it. As they go along, their relationship became more. It was great, funny, emotional, and much more.
"Cream Puff, tell him what size you wear."
"Alex, I told you I'm not skating"
"Pussy"
"Pencil Dick" she blurted
Alex beamed. "That's my girl!" He said to the attendant. "I thought her that"
They both are such sweet people. But they have to be patient with each other. There has been a lot that happens to them. I loved the talks that Alex had between his friends on the team. They were always insulting each other. It was funny. There is a lot that happens in the story and sometimes it was predictable but it didn't take anything away from the who story line.
I was connected to the characters all the way to the end. So, I must say that this book was definitely worth the read.
"You can stop posing now" she said. "I'm not watching"
"But you were" He said, confirming her suspicion.
"I'll do an encore for you, if you want. Back at the cabin"
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4.5 stars!!
So, naturally I love sports romance novels. Especially if it's Hockey since I love Hockey and all. And the fact that they mentioned Canada here and there with some jokes really was great.
So this book can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first two and I wasn't really lost. But I would advise you reading the first two to know more about the characters in the book.
So, Alex is a hockey player who is also a San Diego Barracudas' playboy. He has never had a relationship that lasts longer than a month or so. So when he meets Claire, things start changing. Claire had just gone through a divorce with a man who she married to for 10 years. When he betrayed her in the worst possible way, she had to leave.
Alex's best friend Tim is married to Claire's sister so they were going to meet eventually. So when Claire offers to have fun, he's all up for it. As they go along, their relationship became more. It was great, funny, emotional, and much more.
"Cream Puff, tell him what size you wear."
"Alex, I told you I'm not skating"
"Pussy"
"Pencil Dick" she blurted
Alex beamed. "That's my girl!" He said to the attendant. "I thought her that"
They both are such sweet people. But they have to be patient with each other. There has been a lot that happens to them. I loved the talks that Alex had between his friends on the team. They were always insulting each other. It was funny. There is a lot that happens in the story and sometimes it was predictable but it didn't take anything away from the who story line.
I was connected to the characters all the way to the end. So, I must say that this book was definitely worth the read.
"You can stop posing now" she said. "I'm not watching"
"But you were" He said, confirming her suspicion.
"I'll do an encore for you, if you want. Back at the cabin"
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March 5, 2015
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
I was given a copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
OUT OF THE GAME is a delightful, light hearted story about a sexy, professional hockey player. Alex is a playboy hockey player who has never had a relationship last longer than a month or two, but things change when he meets Claire. Claire has just gone through a divorce, after discovering her husband of ten years cheated on her. She doesn’t have a lot of confidence and has a bad attitude when it comes to men and relationships. Alex is attracted to Claire and suggests they spend time together to help her get over the pain of her divorce. He’d be happy to be her rebound guy, so she can forget her cheating husband. There’s a lot of chemistry between them and Claire agrees to have a fling with Alex. Neither of them is looking for anything permanent, but as time goes on and they continue to spend more time together, they are surprised to find they are becoming closer.
Alex is easy to like, he’s a fun, carefree guy and also works hard to be a great hockey player. He’s nearing the end of his career and is finally maturing and for the first time in his life, he’s forced to make some tough decisions. He’s surprised by his strong feelings for Claire. He understands Claire needs time and patience and he gives it to her. Claire is a nice person, but unfortunately she was married to a jerk and she’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. She’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie Alex has with his teammates. They are always trash talking and playing pranks on each other and everyone has a nickname. Kate Willoughby writes a fast paced story that held my interest from the first page. Alex and Claire immediately click and there is a lot of passion between them. I connected with the characters and was sorry when the story ended.
I was given a copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
OUT OF THE GAME is a delightful, light hearted story about a sexy, professional hockey player. Alex is a playboy hockey player who has never had a relationship last longer than a month or two, but things change when he meets Claire. Claire has just gone through a divorce, after discovering her husband of ten years cheated on her. She doesn’t have a lot of confidence and has a bad attitude when it comes to men and relationships. Alex is attracted to Claire and suggests they spend time together to help her get over the pain of her divorce. He’d be happy to be her rebound guy, so she can forget her cheating husband. There’s a lot of chemistry between them and Claire agrees to have a fling with Alex. Neither of them is looking for anything permanent, but as time goes on and they continue to spend more time together, they are surprised to find they are becoming closer.
Alex is easy to like, he’s a fun, carefree guy and also works hard to be a great hockey player. He’s nearing the end of his career and is finally maturing and for the first time in his life, he’s forced to make some tough decisions. He’s surprised by his strong feelings for Claire. He understands Claire needs time and patience and he gives it to her. Claire is a nice person, but unfortunately she was married to a jerk and she’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. She’s still trying to figure out her life after the divorce. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie Alex has with his teammates. They are always trash talking and playing pranks on each other and everyone has a nickname. Kate Willoughby writes a fast paced story that held my interest from the first page. Alex and Claire immediately click and there is a lot of passion between them. I connected with the characters and was sorry when the story ended.
November 21, 2015
This was one of my fun discoveries late this year. I love sports romance, especially hockey, and Ms. Willoughby manages to write deliciously sexy stories that include plenty of the game and life around the sport and give us a book full of heart as well.
I've been waiting for this book since book 1 when we sort of assumed there was a hook up between Alex and Erin's sister, Claire. A sister who was at the time married, and then we found out going through a divorce. As much as I was dying to see the big manwhore of the team get with the sweet sister, I was hoping there would be some time between what happened and when this book took place.
I shouldn't have worried. OUT OF THE GAME was the perfect story for these two. Starting out playful and then switching into something more serious. I loved getting to know Alex more, he's so adorably carefree and he hides some of his hurt so deep you wouldn't have suspected it. I also found that I really liked Claire. She was so buttoned up to now and it was nice seeing her explore things she hadn't been able to before. She was too busy being the perfect wife and never paid attention to what she really liked. How to dress, what to do, how to act, even what she liked during sex. Alex helped her explore many of those things.
OUT OF THE GAME was just a fun book to read! I think after the Play by Play series by Jaci Burton, this is going to be my go to for sweet and sexy sport romance. I love how light hearted it is, perfect when I need a cute pick me up book with a great story. Bring on the next one!
Reviewed by Francesca
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March 23, 2015
When fun and games turns into something serious, and life as they know it takes a tragic turn.
At the beginning of the story Alex is a potty mouth, fun loving, hockey playing, sex driven, player. He has the enthusiasm of a child towards life, the sex drive of a teenager, and appetite for life and fun like no one else.
Claire is careful with her heart, feelings, and life. The divorce has made her careful on many levels, and her self esteem has suffered from her ex-husband's treatment of her.
The spontaneous way Alex introduces his lifestyle to Claire is fun and entertaining. His energy is never ending, his joie de vivre is admirable, he is charming, humorous, and engaging.
As the time goes, and they get to know more of each other, and their relationship continues, to everyone's amazement, deeper feelings come into the play. Life happens, plans change, and future shifts, as unexpected events change everything.
What started as a fun fling, changes everything in Alex and Claire's life.
The development of the characters is shown so well in this story, at the first half of the book, Claire takes the walls down from around her, and surrenders herself into the fun and lively way of living Alex has to offer. When the time comes for Alex to 'grow up', it is not an easy process, there's past pain, future in peril, and new feelings to be dealt with. The story takes a more serious tone, and brings so much more into the plate. The conclusion of the story is pleasant, satisfying, and rather sweet, making this a very enjoyable read, and fascinating series to be followed
~ Four Spoons
booksandspoons.weebly.com/book-blog
At the beginning of the story Alex is a potty mouth, fun loving, hockey playing, sex driven, player. He has the enthusiasm of a child towards life, the sex drive of a teenager, and appetite for life and fun like no one else.
Claire is careful with her heart, feelings, and life. The divorce has made her careful on many levels, and her self esteem has suffered from her ex-husband's treatment of her.
The spontaneous way Alex introduces his lifestyle to Claire is fun and entertaining. His energy is never ending, his joie de vivre is admirable, he is charming, humorous, and engaging.
As the time goes, and they get to know more of each other, and their relationship continues, to everyone's amazement, deeper feelings come into the play. Life happens, plans change, and future shifts, as unexpected events change everything.
What started as a fun fling, changes everything in Alex and Claire's life.
The development of the characters is shown so well in this story, at the first half of the book, Claire takes the walls down from around her, and surrenders herself into the fun and lively way of living Alex has to offer. When the time comes for Alex to 'grow up', it is not an easy process, there's past pain, future in peril, and new feelings to be dealt with. The story takes a more serious tone, and brings so much more into the plate. The conclusion of the story is pleasant, satisfying, and rather sweet, making this a very enjoyable read, and fascinating series to be followed
~ Four Spoons
booksandspoons.weebly.com/book-blog
March 18, 2015
4 stars
This is the third book of the In the Zone series and is Claire and Alex's story. If you have read the previous books in this series you know both of these characters already and I think this was a great story for these two characters both of them are really likeable. This was a nice book the romance was nice and I think it was good seeing a really different side to Alex with his love of all movies even the romantic comedies, I especially loved the reference to Breakfast at Tiffany's which is a favourite of mine. I really enjoyed the story but I did think the the story was a little hurried when it came to their relationship it was a weekend and then all of a sudden it's a month later when we see their relationship again and then there was a small time which we saw their relationship progress further and then their was an accident and it changed yet again. The story was over really fast for me I thought it could have done with a little more input on Alex's behalf. Anyway it was a good read and while this is a hockey series it's not really heavy on the hockey so if your expecting that you need to change your expectations a little before reading it, if you haven't read the first 2 books of the series I would suggest you do because you will be meeting people and hearing references to their stories in this book.
This is the third book of the In the Zone series and is Claire and Alex's story. If you have read the previous books in this series you know both of these characters already and I think this was a great story for these two characters both of them are really likeable. This was a nice book the romance was nice and I think it was good seeing a really different side to Alex with his love of all movies even the romantic comedies, I especially loved the reference to Breakfast at Tiffany's which is a favourite of mine. I really enjoyed the story but I did think the the story was a little hurried when it came to their relationship it was a weekend and then all of a sudden it's a month later when we see their relationship again and then there was a small time which we saw their relationship progress further and then their was an accident and it changed yet again. The story was over really fast for me I thought it could have done with a little more input on Alex's behalf. Anyway it was a good read and while this is a hockey series it's not really heavy on the hockey so if your expecting that you need to change your expectations a little before reading it, if you haven't read the first 2 books of the series I would suggest you do because you will be meeting people and hearing references to their stories in this book.
Want to read
January 26, 2015Alex Sullivan may be the San Diego Barracudas' resident playboy, but he hasn't been able to forget the woman who kissed him like her life depended on it ten months ago. When he sees her again at a teammate's wedding, he can't think of anything but spending more time with her. Preferably naked.
Claire Marzano lost years catering to an overbearing husband, and she's not going to answer to anyone ever again. A hot fling is just what she needs to get back in the game, and that's exactly what sexy Alex offers—one wild long weekend away, with no promises or obligations.
But that one weekend changes everything. Despite knowing full well Alex isn't the kind to ever commit, Claire is falling for him. And Alex secretly imagines a future with his strong, smart "accidental girlfriend." Until a surprise announcement and an on-ice accident threaten to derail everything…or cause Alex to finally ditch his old ways and become the man Claire needs him to be.
#1 On the Surface
#2 Across the Line
#3 Out of the Game
Claire Marzano lost years catering to an overbearing husband, and she's not going to answer to anyone ever again. A hot fling is just what she needs to get back in the game, and that's exactly what sexy Alex offers—one wild long weekend away, with no promises or obligations.
But that one weekend changes everything. Despite knowing full well Alex isn't the kind to ever commit, Claire is falling for him. And Alex secretly imagines a future with his strong, smart "accidental girlfriend." Until a surprise announcement and an on-ice accident threaten to derail everything…or cause Alex to finally ditch his old ways and become the man Claire needs him to be.
#1 On the Surface
#2 Across the Line
#3 Out of the Game
March 16, 2015
Why I read it: I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
What worked for me (and what didn’t): I really enjoy this author’s writing voice and I especially like the way she writes guys and the banter between the team mates. I liked On The Surface and loved Across the Line so I had high hopes for Out of the Game. More so because I liked Alex Sullivan in the earlier stories. He’s a charming rogue type character. A bit of a manslut but not in a cheaty way. I don’t have a problem with someone who wants to have lots of casual sex as long as they’re not making promises they can’t or don’t keep. If both parties are on the same page, it’s all good IMO. There is something great about watching a guy like this fall for “the One” and I was looking forward to what Ms. Willoughby would do with it. It had such a promising start but it went off the rails for me about halfway in and never quite recovered.
Read the rest: http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2015/0...
What worked for me (and what didn’t): I really enjoy this author’s writing voice and I especially like the way she writes guys and the banter between the team mates. I liked On The Surface and loved Across the Line so I had high hopes for Out of the Game. More so because I liked Alex Sullivan in the earlier stories. He’s a charming rogue type character. A bit of a manslut but not in a cheaty way. I don’t have a problem with someone who wants to have lots of casual sex as long as they’re not making promises they can’t or don’t keep. If both parties are on the same page, it’s all good IMO. There is something great about watching a guy like this fall for “the One” and I was looking forward to what Ms. Willoughby would do with it. It had such a promising start but it went off the rails for me about halfway in and never quite recovered.
Read the rest: http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2015/0...
June 11, 2015
***ARC from NetGalley in Exchange for an honest review***
The third book in the In The Zone series functions well as a stand alone but is a better read if you have had the opportunity to read the first two.
This one focuses on the fun-loving, potty mouth, kinda happy go lucky Alex and the damaged but coming into her own Claire. They start out their "relationship" with an almost quickie that wasn't and progress to a full-on affair. Alex is the perfect guide for Claire as she explores a wild, impulsive life free from the constraints of her failed marriage.
I loved Alex and his infectious joie de vivre. He was the right man at the perfect time for Claire. And vice versa...I think Claire got too old before her time and this is her chance to be young. By the same token, her steadfastness rubs off on Alex.
She recaptures some of her youth, he grows up. And along the way, they have this amazing, roller-coaster ride of discovery. Thoroughly engaging and a definite page-turner for me.
The third book in the In The Zone series functions well as a stand alone but is a better read if you have had the opportunity to read the first two.
This one focuses on the fun-loving, potty mouth, kinda happy go lucky Alex and the damaged but coming into her own Claire. They start out their "relationship" with an almost quickie that wasn't and progress to a full-on affair. Alex is the perfect guide for Claire as she explores a wild, impulsive life free from the constraints of her failed marriage.
I loved Alex and his infectious joie de vivre. He was the right man at the perfect time for Claire. And vice versa...I think Claire got too old before her time and this is her chance to be young. By the same token, her steadfastness rubs off on Alex.
She recaptures some of her youth, he grows up. And along the way, they have this amazing, roller-coaster ride of discovery. Thoroughly engaging and a definite page-turner for me.
July 1, 2015
I loved this book...definitely my favorite of the In The Zone series so far! I was engaged from the first chapter and I read it straight through.
The book tells the story of Alex Sullivan and Claire Marzano. Alex is a third-liner for the San Diego Barracudas (a fictional NHL team). He's described as a "playboy"...definitely not relationship material. Claire, on the other hand, is the new sister-in-law of Alex's friend and teammate. She's on the rebound and figures she deserves a little fun. Of course a little bit of fun turns into more and drama ensues, but it all works out in the end. It is a romance, after all.
I loved Alex Sullivan! He was funny and sweet and clueless at times, which was endearing (mostly). The "chirping" between he and Claire had me laughing out loud at a few points. I liked Claire too, but this book was really all about Alex for me.
I'm going to miss Alex and Claire...but mostly Alex! Hopefully they'll make a guest appearance in the next one. Can't wait.
The book tells the story of Alex Sullivan and Claire Marzano. Alex is a third-liner for the San Diego Barracudas (a fictional NHL team). He's described as a "playboy"...definitely not relationship material. Claire, on the other hand, is the new sister-in-law of Alex's friend and teammate. She's on the rebound and figures she deserves a little fun. Of course a little bit of fun turns into more and drama ensues, but it all works out in the end. It is a romance, after all.
I loved Alex Sullivan! He was funny and sweet and clueless at times, which was endearing (mostly). The "chirping" between he and Claire had me laughing out loud at a few points. I liked Claire too, but this book was really all about Alex for me.
I'm going to miss Alex and Claire...but mostly Alex! Hopefully they'll make a guest appearance in the next one. Can't wait.
March 19, 2015
This series just keeps getting better and better. Alex and Claire have become my favourite couple so far. Coming off a sad divorce Claire is trying to start over, Alex is a star hockey player(with the bad boy, man slut rep)who 10 months ago had kissed Claire and hasn't been able to forget it. They meet up again at the wedding of her sister Erin and his best friend and teammate Tim. Sparks ignite and Alex is determined to get Claire where he wants her, in his bed. Claire refuses at first but after agreeing to a getaway trip she realizes that she wants Alex just as much as he wants her. The relationship begins, for how long no one knows. Falling hard they both have a surprise to deal with, as well as a devastating and possible career ending injury to Alex. Can they weather the storms hitting them? Can Alex the man slut really be with only one woman? Definite Recommend!!!!
March 17, 2015
This was a very good read and I really enjoyed it. Alex and Claire had excellent chemistry and their banter was hilarious. Actually all the characters in this book were fun and I’m really looking forward to more books in this series so I can hopefully see Alex’s teammates get their happy endings as well. This book is well written and flows smoothly and quickly. It does cover quite a lot of ground plot wise but I really enjoyed it all, in another book it may have been too many things going on but for this one I thought it worked. Fair warning Alex has a filthy mouth and there are plenty of smoking hot sexy times but that just makes it that much more fun. I will definately be on the lookout for more books in this series and from this author. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2015
Well written, but not the greatest in the series. Alex was funny though immature, however Claire was kind of a shrew and honestly I never really felt that they had the HEA sort of love that I want in a romance (case in point she refuses to contact him at a critical time pretty much just to make a point... Not the stuff dreams are made of). I also didn't really like Claire's sister Erin in this one either (Claire refers to her as sanctimonious and she really is) which was a shame as she was much nicer in On The Surface. I also found the plot to be pretty slow moving (not what I'm looking for in a sports romance!). All in all a lack lustre installment to the series.
* ARC provided by NetGalley in return for an honest review *
* ARC provided by NetGalley in return for an honest review *
March 17, 2015
Alex was the light-hearted party boy of the team, but he shared a moment with Claire in the past that he can't get out of his mind. This has never happened before and with his friends finding love, he wonders if it's time for him to change too. With Claire, he feels he might be able to.
I really enjoyed the funny banter between the characters. Alex says what he's thinking, no matter how outrageous at times. LOL This is the 3rd book in the 'In the Zone' hockey series, but it can be read as a stand alone without any confusion. It appears that this book and the 2nd one happen at the same time so it was fun seeing previous characters show up.
I really enjoyed the funny banter between the characters. Alex says what he's thinking, no matter how outrageous at times. LOL This is the 3rd book in the 'In the Zone' hockey series, but it can be read as a stand alone without any confusion. It appears that this book and the 2nd one happen at the same time so it was fun seeing previous characters show up.
May 21, 2016
If you've ever read any of my reviews then you probably know how much I love hockey romance books. Actually, anything that is hockey related. I've been watching for this book about Alex, the playboy,to see what kind of woman was going to change his ways. In walks Claire. I definitely know this wasn't my favorite of the series and I think it was because of Claire. I don't know what it was about her. Alex I loved because he really never censored his feelings or even his words. I love books where the playboy/girl has a change in attitude and surprise families are high on my list.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
January 16, 2016
I'm late again with this series, I've not read #1 or #2, but I will be now. I thought this book was great. Yes Alex was immature at times, and little self centred, but I loved him anyway. Claire was his perfect partner, just the right woman to put him on the right track. They had perfect chemistry together and their bantering was great fun, but the teams fun and games were hilarious.
The storyline was great, very hot and sexy, and the secondary characters all blended very well together, I'm looking forward to catching up on what I've missed in this series and seeming who already has a novel of their own.
March 26, 2015
4 stars
Out of The Game was a sweet contemporary love story with great characters and a very entertaining story line. The writing is well done and the chemistry between the characters is smoking!
You will definitely want to read this one, I highly recommend it =)
Thank you Carina Press via Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Out of The Game was a sweet contemporary love story with great characters and a very entertaining story line. The writing is well done and the chemistry between the characters is smoking!
You will definitely want to read this one, I highly recommend it =)
Thank you Carina Press via Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
February 8, 2015
Received ARC from Netgalley.
This is book three in the series, however can be read separately.
This was a sweet story....good girl meets bad boy hockey player! I loved the reference to the main characters of Grease!
This was my first read of Kate Wiloughby and I enjoyed the story line. If you like romantic sports story lines, I would recommend this one. I am going to go back and read book one and two!
This is book three in the series, however can be read separately.
This was a sweet story....good girl meets bad boy hockey player! I loved the reference to the main characters of Grease!
This was my first read of Kate Wiloughby and I enjoyed the story line. If you like romantic sports story lines, I would recommend this one. I am going to go back and read book one and two!
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