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Tulsa Thunderbirds #2
Smoke Signals
USA Today bestselling author Catherine Gayle presents the second novel in the Tulsa Tunderbirds hockey romance series. When dark desperation meets opportunity… On a celebratory trip with his best friend, Ray “Razor” Chambers meets sultry Viktoriya Dubrovskaya and immediately recognizes the desperation in her eyes—a sight he remembers all too well. Permanently in survival mode, the destitute and broken Viktoriya makes him an offer—a proposition he immediately refuses. However, Razor’s counter-offer changes everything for her. A ring. A marriage. A lifetime of opportunity. But learning to live together as husband and wife is as foreign as interpreting Smoke Signals. And where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire. CONTENT contains graphic and potentially disturbing descriptions of abuse, both physical and sexual.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2015
44 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Gayle
73 books923 followers***Please note that series numbering of the Portland Storm series is different at Goodreads than it is on Catherine's website or at any retailer. Goodreads policy will not allow the series numbering to match anything else. If this confuses you, please complain to Goodreads, as it is not Catherine's fault.***
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
October 26, 2015
A beautiful hockey romance with dark and gritty elements interweaved in story that’s heart achingly sweet, tender and full of love, compassion and hope with an absolutely perfect book boyfriend.
What would you do if you’re all alone in this world, left in a foreign country without means to live and fearing being sent back to your home country because death would be the better option? Viktoriya “Tori” Dubrovskaya was sent to the US to become a ballerina and escape a hellish fate at the hands of the Russian mafia. But after her only source of income is vanished, she makes a choice that has slowly robbed her of her self-worth and eventually her dreams.
Left without money and a visa, feeling helpless and despaired, Viktoriya turns to selling her body to survive. But the man she’s set her sights on doesn’t just see the provocative package she’s offering, he sees through her and recognizes the proposition for what it is, an act of desperation by a scared and damaged woman.
Even though Ray “Razor” Chamber now has a career in the NHL which guarantees neither he nor his mother will ever want for anything, he knows this was reached in part because of all the sacrifices and difficult choices his mother had to make while he was growing up. So when the sultry seductress propositions him at a Vegas casino, he makes an offer of his own. His, involving a quickie marriage by Elvis, a green card and an opportunity to mend her body and soul.
They have interlaced their lives lightning fast, but getting past the deep seated scars life has dealt Tori will be slow going, if at all. Can Viktoriya leave the past behind, forgive herself and move forward with the man who’s given her more than a safe harbor? Can Razor resist her long enough to break through her shields and show her she’s worthy of happiness and him?
I met Razor from the Portland Storm series and had a few sightings in Bury the Hatchet (book #1 Tulsa Thunderbirds) and liked his outgoing, sarcastic, cocky persona. I had an idea of his past, and from the blurb and knowing Catherine’s writing, I knew I would get a story that would tug at my heart, make me smile and fan myself and place itself on my favorites list. What I didn’t anticipate, but thoroughly loved was to fall head over heels for this man who so patient and determinedly, caring, gentle and lovingly helped this beaten and broken woman become whole again.
I was shocked by the situations Tori had to endure to survive. I was saddened at the reminder that this a very real issue and sympathetic for the woman who lived in shame and fear and couldn’t imagine anything but bad things coming her way and anyone associated to her. But I also admired her when she finally fought to retake her life and embrace the love Razor offered her.
I enjoy how Catherine conjures up these interesting situations between hero and heroine and doesn’t force their love and romance, but rather develops it slowly and gradually, bringing up not just the sexual tension but also the swoon factor to a maximum.
I also love the addition of characters from past books which adds to the camaraderie and support that help this couple out. I loved being part of Babs and Katie's wedding and I delighted in the sunshine the witty Tallie brought. And I can't not mention Razor's mom who was not just understanding but also the best book mom ever.
Catherine Gayle writes another beautiful, emotional and touching book that both broke my heart and put it back together with kindness, patience and love.
Smoke Signals is the second book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series, a spin-off of the Portland Storm. It is a standalone, full-length, contemporary sports romance filled with all the feels, from action hockey sequences, to sweet tenderness and sexual tension. It has a happy ending, with no cheating, no cliffhangers. It also has graphic and potentially disturbing description of abuse, both physical and sexual.
Pre-Order -> http://amzn.to/1LIJBIj
Read Chapter 1 -> http://catherinegayle.com/contemporar...
* I was graciously given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
What would you do if you’re all alone in this world, left in a foreign country without means to live and fearing being sent back to your home country because death would be the better option? Viktoriya “Tori” Dubrovskaya was sent to the US to become a ballerina and escape a hellish fate at the hands of the Russian mafia. But after her only source of income is vanished, she makes a choice that has slowly robbed her of her self-worth and eventually her dreams.
"Someday I’ll get through to you, and you’ll know you’re a thousand times more valuable than the sum of your parts…
Someday, you’ll take control over your body again, and you’ll own it. And maybe then, you’ll see how beautiful you are to me. Maybe then, you’ll be beautiful to yourself." ~ Razor to Tori
Left without money and a visa, feeling helpless and despaired, Viktoriya turns to selling her body to survive. But the man she’s set her sights on doesn’t just see the provocative package she’s offering, he sees through her and recognizes the proposition for what it is, an act of desperation by a scared and damaged woman.
"What if I think you’re a nice girl who’s had some ugly shit done to you, and I want to give you the chance to be the nice girl you are? What if you’re a nice girl by day and a dirty girl by night, and that’s exactly what I’m looking for."
Even though Ray “Razor” Chamber now has a career in the NHL which guarantees neither he nor his mother will ever want for anything, he knows this was reached in part because of all the sacrifices and difficult choices his mother had to make while he was growing up. So when the sultry seductress propositions him at a Vegas casino, he makes an offer of his own. His, involving a quickie marriage by Elvis, a green card and an opportunity to mend her body and soul.
"Shocker of all shockers, somehow I ended up married before Babs."
They have interlaced their lives lightning fast, but getting past the deep seated scars life has dealt Tori will be slow going, if at all. Can Viktoriya leave the past behind, forgive herself and move forward with the man who’s given her more than a safe harbor? Can Razor resist her long enough to break through her shields and show her she’s worthy of happiness and him?
I met Razor from the Portland Storm series and had a few sightings in Bury the Hatchet (book #1 Tulsa Thunderbirds) and liked his outgoing, sarcastic, cocky persona. I had an idea of his past, and from the blurb and knowing Catherine’s writing, I knew I would get a story that would tug at my heart, make me smile and fan myself and place itself on my favorites list. What I didn’t anticipate, but thoroughly loved was to fall head over heels for this man who so patient and determinedly, caring, gentle and lovingly helped this beaten and broken woman become whole again.
"You’ve got to give me a fighting chance. Let me in on whatever it is that’s going on in your head so I can find a way to combat it."
I was shocked by the situations Tori had to endure to survive. I was saddened at the reminder that this a very real issue and sympathetic for the woman who lived in shame and fear and couldn’t imagine anything but bad things coming her way and anyone associated to her. But I also admired her when she finally fought to retake her life and embrace the love Razor offered her.
"He cradled my face between both his hands, tipping it up so our lips met. Soft. Tender. Reverent. He kissed me in a way no man ever had before. Like I was worth the effort of holding himself back, taking his time. Like I ought to be handled with care."
I enjoy how Catherine conjures up these interesting situations between hero and heroine and doesn’t force their love and romance, but rather develops it slowly and gradually, bringing up not just the sexual tension but also the swoon factor to a maximum.
“What do you see?”
“You. Exactly as you are. Exactly as you should be. Thriving and powerful and ten times more beautiful than anything I’ve ever seen before."
I also love the addition of characters from past books which adds to the camaraderie and support that help this couple out. I loved being part of Babs and Katie's wedding and I delighted in the sunshine the witty Tallie brought. And I can't not mention Razor's mom who was not just understanding but also the best book mom ever.
“I recognized a piece of you in her.”
“Didn’t anyone ever tell you that you’re not supposed to marry your mother? Someone should have mentioned that.”
“I think that would have been your job, Mom.”
Catherine Gayle writes another beautiful, emotional and touching book that both broke my heart and put it back together with kindness, patience and love.
Smoke Signals is the second book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series, a spin-off of the Portland Storm. It is a standalone, full-length, contemporary sports romance filled with all the feels, from action hockey sequences, to sweet tenderness and sexual tension. It has a happy ending, with no cheating, no cliffhangers. It also has graphic and potentially disturbing description of abuse, both physical and sexual.
Pre-Order -> http://amzn.to/1LIJBIj
Read Chapter 1 -> http://catherinegayle.com/contemporar...
* I was graciously given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
October 2, 2015
An ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I have one complaint about this book: It isn't longer! As a reader of the Portland Storm series and the Tulsa Thunderbirds first book, I am no stranger to hockey romance or the players in this book. I've encountered Razor before and I'm so happy to finally, really meet him.
What happens when a hockey player is propositioned for sex in Sin City? He marries her, of course! Razor sees something in Tori and he is determined to help her out of the trouble she is in. He can see that she is broken and defeated. She reminds him of his mother. A strong woman who has been broken by circumstance.
Tori left Russia years ago at her father's pushing. She was in danger and the best way to protect her was to get her out of Russia. Tori lands in America to attend a ballet school, but finds herself without money when tragedy hits. As a woman who is backed into a corner, she turns to the oldest service/good in the book: her body. What starts as stripping eventually leads to porn. The horrible things she encounters are only made worse when she is kicked out of ballet school and her visa is revoked. It is this desperate need for money that sends her out looking for a John.
As fate, or luck, or whatever would have it Tori catches the eye of Razor. A chance encounter leads to a quickie wedding in Vegas followed by a difficult path to happiness. Tori can't escape her past. Razor can't crack her armor. And in order for Tori to remain in the States, they have to convince immigration that they love each other. How hard could that be?
Told with the wonderful style as other Catherine Gayle books, Smoke Signals tackles serious issues including: abuse, pornography/prostitution, the need for counseling, and the desire to be loved. Yes. those last two are serious issues.
One thing I absolutely love about these books: I get to see players from previous books. Tallie is the brightest spot in this book. I loved seeing Soupy--even if it was really only a brief mention--and I love the way these guys interact.
Also, Babs!
I have one complaint about this book: It isn't longer! As a reader of the Portland Storm series and the Tulsa Thunderbirds first book, I am no stranger to hockey romance or the players in this book. I've encountered Razor before and I'm so happy to finally, really meet him.
What happens when a hockey player is propositioned for sex in Sin City? He marries her, of course! Razor sees something in Tori and he is determined to help her out of the trouble she is in. He can see that she is broken and defeated. She reminds him of his mother. A strong woman who has been broken by circumstance.
Tori left Russia years ago at her father's pushing. She was in danger and the best way to protect her was to get her out of Russia. Tori lands in America to attend a ballet school, but finds herself without money when tragedy hits. As a woman who is backed into a corner, she turns to the oldest service/good in the book: her body. What starts as stripping eventually leads to porn. The horrible things she encounters are only made worse when she is kicked out of ballet school and her visa is revoked. It is this desperate need for money that sends her out looking for a John.
As fate, or luck, or whatever would have it Tori catches the eye of Razor. A chance encounter leads to a quickie wedding in Vegas followed by a difficult path to happiness. Tori can't escape her past. Razor can't crack her armor. And in order for Tori to remain in the States, they have to convince immigration that they love each other. How hard could that be?
Told with the wonderful style as other Catherine Gayle books, Smoke Signals tackles serious issues including: abuse, pornography/prostitution, the need for counseling, and the desire to be loved. Yes. those last two are serious issues.
One thing I absolutely love about these books: I get to see players from previous books. Tallie is the brightest spot in this book. I loved seeing Soupy--even if it was really only a brief mention--and I love the way these guys interact.
Also, Babs!
May 17, 2018
Ex manwhore vs ex pornstar.
Guess who the flighty one was in this relationship!
Razor, my book boyfriend here, or I might even adopt him, now that I’m an old lady and all, was all in from the moment he said I do.
I mean WTF???
He married a potential prostitute because he genuinely wanted to help. No, he does NOT pay for sex. He wanted to see how he could help her and turns out she needs a family. So he gives it to her the only way he could, by marrying her.
And from the moment he says I do, he becomes a married man, and Torrie’s husband. Not in a possessive/master/owner kind of way but in a caring protective partner’s way!
I had trouble getting my head around that, however my respect went through the roof!
He took his vows extremely seriously.
So seriously that if Torrie was deported he would have abandoned his career and would’ve followed her to the end of the world.
Yes, Razor’s mother was a prostitute. But from our extensive HP research, isn’t it given that a hooker’s kid is to hate womankind to death because mummy issues?
I mean did I fail my HP mummy issues 101?
Razor doesn’t have any hard feelings towards his mum. Does he wish his mum didn’t have that life? Hell yes. And he makes sure she’s comfortable now.
But he loves her, respects her and is damn proud of her, because she WAS a strong woman.
Respect for his mum taught him respect for women.
And his past? Yes he had an active sexual life. There was NO mention of it. He may actually have been celibate for a while (yes, he met Torrie in Vegas and went for a potential ONS, but he could’ve easily settled for a drink with the beautiful woman, he really wasn’t an oversexed pig). He also never did any slut-shaming.
It was his feelings for his mother that made him reach out to Torrie. Because he was the first to recognise that a could have been prostitute was not Torrie’s identity. Neither was the ex porn star label her occupation. Her identity was that she was her father’s princess and she was a ballerina in occupation if someone really want to know.
What happened in past didn’t matter to Razor, however, he didn’t share, and since neither porn not prostitution was Torrie’s dream job and something she enjoyed doing, she’s NOT going back to that life.
Torrie however I had problem relating too. I have a feeling Gayle put so much love and consideration in Razor’s character, she neglected Torrie and she came across as a little cold, aloof and detached. Now she went through enormous trauma after trauma. So her capacity of showing emotions may have been stunted, but I felt that there was a huge absence of any emotions. She very mechanically accepted her future in porn, there is a scene where she thinks back about auditions for her first porn and as a reader I felt it was very normal thing to do for her. To trade sex for money. Please don’t get me wrong, if she felt that it was a normal thing and accepted it in her mind I wouldn’t have any issues. But see, she didn’t. It was NOT normal for her. But Torrie’s POV was extremely cold and void of any emotion to me.
Even her interactions with Tallie, or Dima was not whole hearted. Tallie was kind of her only friend and Dima was closest thing to a family she could get.
However I loved the results and the overall book. And I’m really quite happy to leave it at 5 stars.
Guess who the flighty one was in this relationship!
Razor, my book boyfriend here, or I might even adopt him, now that I’m an old lady and all, was all in from the moment he said I do.
I mean WTF???
He married a potential prostitute because he genuinely wanted to help. No, he does NOT pay for sex. He wanted to see how he could help her and turns out she needs a family. So he gives it to her the only way he could, by marrying her.
And from the moment he says I do, he becomes a married man, and Torrie’s husband. Not in a possessive/master/owner kind of way but in a caring protective partner’s way!
I had trouble getting my head around that, however my respect went through the roof!
He took his vows extremely seriously.
So seriously that if Torrie was deported he would have abandoned his career and would’ve followed her to the end of the world.
Yes, Razor’s mother was a prostitute. But from our extensive HP research, isn’t it given that a hooker’s kid is to hate womankind to death because mummy issues?
I mean did I fail my HP mummy issues 101?
Razor doesn’t have any hard feelings towards his mum. Does he wish his mum didn’t have that life? Hell yes. And he makes sure she’s comfortable now.
But he loves her, respects her and is damn proud of her, because she WAS a strong woman.
Respect for his mum taught him respect for women.
And his past? Yes he had an active sexual life. There was NO mention of it. He may actually have been celibate for a while (yes, he met Torrie in Vegas and went for a potential ONS, but he could’ve easily settled for a drink with the beautiful woman, he really wasn’t an oversexed pig). He also never did any slut-shaming.
It was his feelings for his mother that made him reach out to Torrie. Because he was the first to recognise that a could have been prostitute was not Torrie’s identity. Neither was the ex porn star label her occupation. Her identity was that she was her father’s princess and she was a ballerina in occupation if someone really want to know.
What happened in past didn’t matter to Razor, however, he didn’t share, and since neither porn not prostitution was Torrie’s dream job and something she enjoyed doing, she’s NOT going back to that life.
Torrie however I had problem relating too. I have a feeling Gayle put so much love and consideration in Razor’s character, she neglected Torrie and she came across as a little cold, aloof and detached. Now she went through enormous trauma after trauma. So her capacity of showing emotions may have been stunted, but I felt that there was a huge absence of any emotions. She very mechanically accepted her future in porn, there is a scene where she thinks back about auditions for her first porn and as a reader I felt it was very normal thing to do for her. To trade sex for money. Please don’t get me wrong, if she felt that it was a normal thing and accepted it in her mind I wouldn’t have any issues. But see, she didn’t. It was NOT normal for her. But Torrie’s POV was extremely cold and void of any emotion to me.
Even her interactions with Tallie, or Dima was not whole hearted. Tallie was kind of her only friend and Dima was closest thing to a family she could get.
However I loved the results and the overall book. And I’m really quite happy to leave it at 5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2015
This is a beautiful story of love breaking through even the toughest shell!
Tori is a Russian ballerina who has been forced to make some rather harsh choices due to circumstances somewhat beyond her control.
Razor is a member of the Tulsa Thunderbirds who is usually boisterous and a general wiseguy.
When the two of them meet, Tori just wants sex but Razor sees something in her and sets out to try and help her.
I love Razor! I wasn't sure how I really felt about him since he is usually such a wiseguy, but he really stepped up with Tori. Their relationship has its ups and downs, but they are so right for each other. I also love Razor's mom; and you can't forget Dima and the scenes with him and the baby! I can't wait for his story. I just want to slap Mrs. J and Koz! Catherine Gayle really brings her characters to life, and when you read one of her stories you feel you are part of it and that these characters could be friends. I highly recommend this book. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
Tori is a Russian ballerina who has been forced to make some rather harsh choices due to circumstances somewhat beyond her control.
Razor is a member of the Tulsa Thunderbirds who is usually boisterous and a general wiseguy.
When the two of them meet, Tori just wants sex but Razor sees something in her and sets out to try and help her.
I love Razor! I wasn't sure how I really felt about him since he is usually such a wiseguy, but he really stepped up with Tori. Their relationship has its ups and downs, but they are so right for each other. I also love Razor's mom; and you can't forget Dima and the scenes with him and the baby! I can't wait for his story. I just want to slap Mrs. J and Koz! Catherine Gayle really brings her characters to life, and when you read one of her stories you feel you are part of it and that these characters could be friends. I highly recommend this book. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
September 29, 2015
A person never knows how much they can endure until they are not given a choice. Will it be faced with strength and integrity? Will it cause a breakdown that is hard to recover from? Smoke Signals is a story of courage, hope and kindness. Viktoriya is at her lowest when she meets Ray. This girl is in a foreign country with no way to take care of herself. I cried because she truly was alone and didn't have anyone she could on but herself. A good person with no options, she is willing to degrade herself and is on the verge of giving up on her dream. Ray proves to be her guardian angel. Despair begets a safe haven for these two troubled people. Haunted by a past he can't change, he will do whatever he can to protect Viktoriya from enduring what he faced in his youth. When all is said and done Catherine Gayle's powerful novel shows that one good deed, one big heart can make a difference. An act of kindness has the power to heal. I received an ARC of Smoke Signals in exchange for an honest review. Have the hankies close by.
December 15, 2015
2 STARS
Ah this happen every time when I can't wait for book...so I love hockey I'm really fan when it comes to hockey and hockey stories - even better!
But this...something was missing for me.
I loved Razor but I guess not enough to give better review.
Ah this happen every time when I can't wait for book...so I love hockey I'm really fan when it comes to hockey and hockey stories - even better!
But this...something was missing for me.
I loved Razor but I guess not enough to give better review.
September 30, 2015
Smoke Signals takes us back to the Tulsa Thunderbirds Hockey Team. This is the second book of this spin off series from Gayle’s Portland Storm series. This book is also about a former Storm player, Ray “Razor” Chambers.
Fans of the Storm series will be thrilled to see some of the players appear in this book. Razor is in Vegas for his best friend Babs wedding to Katie Weber. The night before the wedding, he is propositioned by Viktoriya, posing as a prostitute. Razor sees right through her gimmick and tries very hard to get her to open up about what is happening with her.
Razor—very loud and rowdy with his teammates—soft spoken and heart of absolute gold in his private life.
“Tori”—terribly damaged and without a friend or family member in the world. Classically trained ballerina, very down on her luck.
I don’t want to share much more of the story with you because I think you need to take this journey with Razor and Tori. Fair warning, there are some trigger scenes that may be difficult for some people. I am certain you will fall in love with Razor all on your own after finishing this story. This author brings home the power of love and its ability to heal the troubled soul.
I loved seeing the care that Razor took to ensure that Tori felt safe enough to work through her issues. My curiosity was peaked about Dimi and I look forward to reading his story. Lovers of hockey will enjoy the play by play that Ms. Gayle puts in all of her books. No need to read book 1 first but why not get the feel for the team and read that one too?
Fans of the Storm series will be thrilled to see some of the players appear in this book. Razor is in Vegas for his best friend Babs wedding to Katie Weber. The night before the wedding, he is propositioned by Viktoriya, posing as a prostitute. Razor sees right through her gimmick and tries very hard to get her to open up about what is happening with her.
Razor—very loud and rowdy with his teammates—soft spoken and heart of absolute gold in his private life.
“Tori”—terribly damaged and without a friend or family member in the world. Classically trained ballerina, very down on her luck.
I don’t want to share much more of the story with you because I think you need to take this journey with Razor and Tori. Fair warning, there are some trigger scenes that may be difficult for some people. I am certain you will fall in love with Razor all on your own after finishing this story. This author brings home the power of love and its ability to heal the troubled soul.
I loved seeing the care that Razor took to ensure that Tori felt safe enough to work through her issues. My curiosity was peaked about Dimi and I look forward to reading his story. Lovers of hockey will enjoy the play by play that Ms. Gayle puts in all of her books. No need to read book 1 first but why not get the feel for the team and read that one too?
September 30, 2015
This book is amazing. I love how Catherine Gayle is able to write a story that you feel like your living it. I love that she gives the characters a back story that fits with the story. She allows her characters to shine while keeping us up with the team just like it would in real life. I started the Portland Storm series because I got the first one free and fell in love with the series and Catherine Gayle as a writer. This books hits home about the darker sides of like but is still a nice light read. I love Razor he is one of my favorite characters. To young to be a book boyfriend. Can't wait for the next book in both this series and in Portland Storm. Tulsa Thunderbird is a series after my heart. I can't wait for this team to find its heart and I think razor is going to find his ability to help the team. I love that Razor is finding his way in this book. This is a must read book. A MUST READ SERIES. You will be hooked once you start.
June 29, 2016
Having received a free copy through ARC for my honest opinion of this book these are my thoughts
A MUST READ HOCKEY ROMANCE! You never know where life will take you until your journey is forced upon you. I wanted to reach through the pages and help Tori myself but to have a big strong successful man help her was so riveting. Seeing Razor in this light makes ME LOVE HIM, and rethink my opinion of him as a butt head. Although I could have read Smoke Signals as a stand alone book I'm glad I didn't. Having read Bury the Hatchett and knowing Tallie and Hunters history helped with this one. I do believe this is one I am marking as one to be read again! Catherine Gayle out did herself with this book!
A MUST READ HOCKEY ROMANCE! You never know where life will take you until your journey is forced upon you. I wanted to reach through the pages and help Tori myself but to have a big strong successful man help her was so riveting. Seeing Razor in this light makes ME LOVE HIM, and rethink my opinion of him as a butt head. Although I could have read Smoke Signals as a stand alone book I'm glad I didn't. Having read Bury the Hatchett and knowing Tallie and Hunters history helped with this one. I do believe this is one I am marking as one to be read again! Catherine Gayle out did herself with this book!
November 19, 2015
Another great story from Catherine Gayle. Razor meets Tori in Vegas while he's attending Babs & Katie's wedding. She propositions him on the casino floor & they take it up to his room. Once there he finds out he's her first John & proceeds to find out what's going on. Learning of her predicament he comes up with a solution, only this solution has a few problems on the way. One problem is Tori's past & the second is the U.S. Immigration. Can they get beyond both & realize that the past can make you stronger? Can Razor's past help him with Tori's future? Looking forward to the next book.
Read
February 13, 2019DNF
OK, so as soon as I started and realized what the hell she was....just a NO for me. I went in blind and never saw that coming, ughhhhh, I did try and power on but nope! Too bad becuase I loved the first book so much.
OK, so as soon as I started and realized what the hell she was....just a NO for me. I went in blind and never saw that coming, ughhhhh, I did try and power on but nope! Too bad becuase I loved the first book so much.
October 4, 2015
A desperate woman. A man who can empathize. One impulsive decision.
Viktoriya is a woman in need and she gets more than she bargained for when she propositions Ray "Razor" Chambers while they are in Vegas. Razor even surprises himself with his counter offer. Soon they find themselves visiting a chapel to give her a way to avoid deportation to Russia.
Tori is so beat down with sadness, shame and self worth issues, not to even mention the physical and mental scars. But Razor sees something in her that makes him want to protect her. She knows her issues are a lot for Razor to take on but no amount of trying to push him away seems to work. He just keeps trying harder and harder to find her vulnerable parts and get through to her. But she is a woman with so much to deal with and she is so stubborn that at times it seems insurmountable. But he is determined, pushy yet sympathetic, demanding but caring. He just wants her to see the good in her he sees. Even when he is not as fair to himself and does not always even give himself enough credit.
They are from two different worlds with two very different personalities. They will have to break down barriers, learn to compromise, and figure out who they are and what they want. Razor especially has his work cut out for him because she does not make it easy on him.
I have to admit that I had a hard time warming up to Tori. Some of my initial disconnect could be attributed to the broken English due to her being Russian, but a lot was just how she bluntly described her past and experiences. I know we needed to understand what she has been through, but sometimes it was just a bit too much to visualize. But as the story went on I connected with her more and understood why she was the way she was. This was a journey for her to find herself, open up, and believe in the good of others and herself.
And Razor...who knew what was hiding under that veneer? Our cocky, outspoken, arrogant, self proclaimed a-hole really has soft, sweet, protective side. I admired his determination, tenacity, and how much he tried to nurture her failing spirit. He was so patient, thoughtful, and understanding. I have to agree with Tori that he was a really good man.
I enjoyed more with other Tulsa Thunderbirds and Portland Storm peeps: Hunter and Tallie, Dima, Kade, Babs and Katie, Webs, Zee, and 501. I adored Razor's outspoken mom and their unfiltered interactions. I loved that he and Babs are still such good friends despite the distance. I am looking forward to Dima's book as we got to see a bit more into his personality in this one. Tallie and Hunter (Bury the Hatchet) played a big part in this story and I came to like them even more.
I have to admit that this one started out a bit slow and uncomfortable for me. Some of the premise, her experiences, vivid descriptions, and her personality in general initially turned me off. She has so many issues and they were so different. And the whole story started out so impulsive and so out of character for the Razor we have known. But I eventually warmed up to Tori. And I loved Razor's changes. And I found myself really rooting for them to overcome all of their hurdles and find some way to be able to make it work. So in the end, I liked them and felt the story took on a more positive progression and was more relatable. This story focused on finding strength, hope, commitment, understanding, and healing. It was told in dual points of view and the character's both showed growth. There were difficult situations and past experiences, but there was also romance and tenderness. Razor came to be a great hero even if he was a not-so-white-Knight.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Viktoriya is a woman in need and she gets more than she bargained for when she propositions Ray "Razor" Chambers while they are in Vegas. Razor even surprises himself with his counter offer. Soon they find themselves visiting a chapel to give her a way to avoid deportation to Russia.
Tori is so beat down with sadness, shame and self worth issues, not to even mention the physical and mental scars. But Razor sees something in her that makes him want to protect her. She knows her issues are a lot for Razor to take on but no amount of trying to push him away seems to work. He just keeps trying harder and harder to find her vulnerable parts and get through to her. But she is a woman with so much to deal with and she is so stubborn that at times it seems insurmountable. But he is determined, pushy yet sympathetic, demanding but caring. He just wants her to see the good in her he sees. Even when he is not as fair to himself and does not always even give himself enough credit.
They are from two different worlds with two very different personalities. They will have to break down barriers, learn to compromise, and figure out who they are and what they want. Razor especially has his work cut out for him because she does not make it easy on him.
I have to admit that I had a hard time warming up to Tori. Some of my initial disconnect could be attributed to the broken English due to her being Russian, but a lot was just how she bluntly described her past and experiences. I know we needed to understand what she has been through, but sometimes it was just a bit too much to visualize. But as the story went on I connected with her more and understood why she was the way she was. This was a journey for her to find herself, open up, and believe in the good of others and herself.
And Razor...who knew what was hiding under that veneer? Our cocky, outspoken, arrogant, self proclaimed a-hole really has soft, sweet, protective side. I admired his determination, tenacity, and how much he tried to nurture her failing spirit. He was so patient, thoughtful, and understanding. I have to agree with Tori that he was a really good man.
I enjoyed more with other Tulsa Thunderbirds and Portland Storm peeps: Hunter and Tallie, Dima, Kade, Babs and Katie, Webs, Zee, and 501. I adored Razor's outspoken mom and their unfiltered interactions. I loved that he and Babs are still such good friends despite the distance. I am looking forward to Dima's book as we got to see a bit more into his personality in this one. Tallie and Hunter (Bury the Hatchet) played a big part in this story and I came to like them even more.
I have to admit that this one started out a bit slow and uncomfortable for me. Some of the premise, her experiences, vivid descriptions, and her personality in general initially turned me off. She has so many issues and they were so different. And the whole story started out so impulsive and so out of character for the Razor we have known. But I eventually warmed up to Tori. And I loved Razor's changes. And I found myself really rooting for them to overcome all of their hurdles and find some way to be able to make it work. So in the end, I liked them and felt the story took on a more positive progression and was more relatable. This story focused on finding strength, hope, commitment, understanding, and healing. It was told in dual points of view and the character's both showed growth. There were difficult situations and past experiences, but there was also romance and tenderness. Razor came to be a great hero even if he was a not-so-white-Knight.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2017
I'm conflicted on how to rate this one. I almost DNF because the story was dragging. It was very repetitive and jumped from week to week instead of days so it was hard to dive into the story. I finished it though because there was something that just slightly intrigued me. Not sure what it was, maybe it's just because I loved the couple of books in the Portland Storm series I read or what, but I trucked on.
I don't think Tori's sexual abuse/porn career was handled well. We get told a lot of what happened to her, but I don't think we get a lot of personal feelings from her in regards to the actual abuse. The story touches on it, but she just keeps repeating how she doesn't deserve to be treated well and she's desensitized to sex, etc. She seems closed off through most of the book and I just couldn't buy into her character. There was a lot of discussion about her BEING a porn star and WHAT she physically went through, but I wanted more of what she emotionally went through and more about her emotional journey getting through it. Yes, that was all touched on, but I didn't feel her progression. Maybe a scene or two with her therapist would have helped that along. It's not enough to just say that she's getting more comfortable with Razor or that she's making progress after a therapy session because she was crying. I want to hear how she is coming to terms with her past.
Razor was a pretty good character. My issue with him was he latched onto her too quickly and it became pretty insta-love. I have no idea why he would ditch Babs' wedding like he did. I don't think their "relationship" had even remotely progressed enough for that. Other than that though, he was very patient and likeable.
The ending was extremely abrupt. A big part of this story, and the reason they got married, was so she could get a green card. However, we are never told if she even got one. Did they pass the immigration reviews? It's like that part of the storyline just ended, as if her healing and being able to have sex was enough to end the story. There definitely should have been an epilogue to tell us what happens. It almost made it feel like there was no point to this book.
Unfortunately, I don't think I'd recommend this book. If you are looking for a really great book about the emotional side of sexual abuse, read Ghost by A. Zavarelli. This book won't stop me from reading any of Catherine Gayle's other books though. Despite her somewhat cheesy covers, I really like her writing style.
I don't think Tori's sexual abuse/porn career was handled well. We get told a lot of what happened to her, but I don't think we get a lot of personal feelings from her in regards to the actual abuse. The story touches on it, but she just keeps repeating how she doesn't deserve to be treated well and she's desensitized to sex, etc. She seems closed off through most of the book and I just couldn't buy into her character. There was a lot of discussion about her BEING a porn star and WHAT she physically went through, but I wanted more of what she emotionally went through and more about her emotional journey getting through it. Yes, that was all touched on, but I didn't feel her progression. Maybe a scene or two with her therapist would have helped that along. It's not enough to just say that she's getting more comfortable with Razor or that she's making progress after a therapy session because she was crying. I want to hear how she is coming to terms with her past.
Razor was a pretty good character. My issue with him was he latched onto her too quickly and it became pretty insta-love. I have no idea why he would ditch Babs' wedding like he did. I don't think their "relationship" had even remotely progressed enough for that. Other than that though, he was very patient and likeable.
The ending was extremely abrupt. A big part of this story, and the reason they got married, was so she could get a green card. However, we are never told if she even got one. Did they pass the immigration reviews? It's like that part of the storyline just ended, as if her healing and being able to have sex was enough to end the story. There definitely should have been an epilogue to tell us what happens. It almost made it feel like there was no point to this book.
Unfortunately, I don't think I'd recommend this book. If you are looking for a really great book about the emotional side of sexual abuse, read Ghost by A. Zavarelli. This book won't stop me from reading any of Catherine Gayle's other books though. Despite her somewhat cheesy covers, I really like her writing style.
October 22, 2015
Smoke Signals, the second book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series, is the story of Razor and Tori. Razor is in Las Vegas to participate in Babs and Katie's wedding. Razor and Tori's story is dark and deep and emotional, and I couldn't stop reading it. For readers sensitive to emotional issues surrounding sexual abuse, this book may not be for you. But, Catherine Gayle does a masterful job of weaving a dark and complicated childhood for Razor, making him singularly qualified to identify the root of Tori's issues. He sees in her a depth of pain and suffering that he recognizes for what it is, and feels drawn to help her.
The depth of the characters in this book is astounding. Each time you think you've seen everything influencing Tori's life, Razor peels back the onion and discovers more. And behind Razor's gruff exterior is a heart of gold and a sensitive side. His relationship with Tori starts as a solution to a problem and results in love. I think both Tori and Razor were shocked with the direction their relationship turned, but with the depth of emotion each has to pour into the relationship, its no wonder. By each of them exposing the rawest parts of themselves, they also opened themselves up to love.
I love Razor's mother - it's not often you see a grown man so comfortable discussing sex with his mother, but the author crafted these conversations so they were as natural as discussing what they wanted for dinner. The entire supporting cast of characters completes this book, and we catch up with Hunter and Tallie, and get to know other members of the Tulsa Thunderbirds a bit better. Dima played a critical role in Smoke Signals, as he is Tori's connection back to her Russian roots. I look forward to his happily ever after.
I had almost written off the Tulsa Thunderbirds after the first book, deciding that maybe this series wasn't for me. But Smoke Signals has redeemed my hope in this series, and the emotional depth of the stories in this group, and I look forward to the next installment.
The depth of the characters in this book is astounding. Each time you think you've seen everything influencing Tori's life, Razor peels back the onion and discovers more. And behind Razor's gruff exterior is a heart of gold and a sensitive side. His relationship with Tori starts as a solution to a problem and results in love. I think both Tori and Razor were shocked with the direction their relationship turned, but with the depth of emotion each has to pour into the relationship, its no wonder. By each of them exposing the rawest parts of themselves, they also opened themselves up to love.
I love Razor's mother - it's not often you see a grown man so comfortable discussing sex with his mother, but the author crafted these conversations so they were as natural as discussing what they wanted for dinner. The entire supporting cast of characters completes this book, and we catch up with Hunter and Tallie, and get to know other members of the Tulsa Thunderbirds a bit better. Dima played a critical role in Smoke Signals, as he is Tori's connection back to her Russian roots. I look forward to his happily ever after.
I had almost written off the Tulsa Thunderbirds after the first book, deciding that maybe this series wasn't for me. But Smoke Signals has redeemed my hope in this series, and the emotional depth of the stories in this group, and I look forward to the next installment.
October 4, 2015
**An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review**
Smoke Signals is the second book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series and it is a raw and gritty tale that is also full of tenderness, understanding and hope.
What happens when you go to Vegas for your best friends wedding? You get married, right?! Well, in the case of Ray "Razor" Chambers, that's exactly what happens! Razor encounters a woman that he realizes is in way over her head and part of what he notices is a woman who needs help and compassion. Can he step in and give this woman the stability she needs?
Saying that Viktoriya Dubrovskaya has had a rough life is putting it mildly. Her father pushed her to leave her native Russia years ago for her own safety, but things have not gone as she had planned. She's been dealt a hand that forced her to use her body just to make ends meet and that has pushed her into pure survival mode. When she sets her sights on Razor in the casino in Vegas, she doesn't realize that this chance encounter is going to change her life in ways she could have never imagined.
After Razor marries Tori to help with her visa issues, he realizes that the scars she bears are deeper than he could have imagined. Can he break through the suit of armor she has armed herself with and can Tori let her past go in order to move forward?
I am so glad we were treated to Razor's story. I'm really not sure I could love Razor more than I do after finishing this book. We knew him as Babs' best friend, but he was so much more and this book was fantastic. Catherine Gayle is known for tackling issues in her books and this one is no different. There are serious issues dealt with in this book including trafficking, pornography and abuse, but they are handled with care and I applaud Catherine for continuing to focus on real-life issues.
Smoke Signals is the second book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series and it is a raw and gritty tale that is also full of tenderness, understanding and hope.
What happens when you go to Vegas for your best friends wedding? You get married, right?! Well, in the case of Ray "Razor" Chambers, that's exactly what happens! Razor encounters a woman that he realizes is in way over her head and part of what he notices is a woman who needs help and compassion. Can he step in and give this woman the stability she needs?
Saying that Viktoriya Dubrovskaya has had a rough life is putting it mildly. Her father pushed her to leave her native Russia years ago for her own safety, but things have not gone as she had planned. She's been dealt a hand that forced her to use her body just to make ends meet and that has pushed her into pure survival mode. When she sets her sights on Razor in the casino in Vegas, she doesn't realize that this chance encounter is going to change her life in ways she could have never imagined.
After Razor marries Tori to help with her visa issues, he realizes that the scars she bears are deeper than he could have imagined. Can he break through the suit of armor she has armed herself with and can Tori let her past go in order to move forward?
I am so glad we were treated to Razor's story. I'm really not sure I could love Razor more than I do after finishing this book. We knew him as Babs' best friend, but he was so much more and this book was fantastic. Catherine Gayle is known for tackling issues in her books and this one is no different. There are serious issues dealt with in this book including trafficking, pornography and abuse, but they are handled with care and I applaud Catherine for continuing to focus on real-life issues.
October 22, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let me just start by saying that I have been hooked from the very start, way back when it was Eric and Dana (go read it!) and the books that have followed do not dissapoint.
Ahhhhh I had no clue this book was gonna be about Razor I have adored his punk ass from the very start. I had no clue he had a caring bone in him, oh but he does and it might be the second biggest thing he has to offer. He is so understand with Tori and never gets discouraged or upset. Oh and the way he is with his Momma...be still my heart!!! Tori an ex-pornstar, was hard not to love from the get go especially with how fast and deep we get into her background. However, because of all that she has been through, and I mean it's a lot and it's rough, she has a lot of self-hatred and she believes she is of no worth. So at times it got a little annoying with how often she tried throwing herself at Razor or how often she said "you good man" but didn't believe she had anything good to bring the relationship.
All of the relationships in this book were heart warming and just plain awesome but the relationship Tori and Tallie share has been one of my all time favorites. Tallie is non-judgmental, supportive, and talkative she makes me proud to be an Oklahoma woman, how she handles herself is how I strive to handle myself.
I adored this book and it has surprisingly turned into one of my favorites. Catherine brought a couple tough pills to swallow with this book but if you can get through them the sun and your smile be shining so brightly in the end.
Let me just start by saying that I have been hooked from the very start, way back when it was Eric and Dana (go read it!) and the books that have followed do not dissapoint.
Ahhhhh I had no clue this book was gonna be about Razor I have adored his punk ass from the very start. I had no clue he had a caring bone in him, oh but he does and it might be the second biggest thing he has to offer. He is so understand with Tori and never gets discouraged or upset. Oh and the way he is with his Momma...be still my heart!!! Tori an ex-pornstar, was hard not to love from the get go especially with how fast and deep we get into her background. However, because of all that she has been through, and I mean it's a lot and it's rough, she has a lot of self-hatred and she believes she is of no worth. So at times it got a little annoying with how often she tried throwing herself at Razor or how often she said "you good man" but didn't believe she had anything good to bring the relationship.
All of the relationships in this book were heart warming and just plain awesome but the relationship Tori and Tallie share has been one of my all time favorites. Tallie is non-judgmental, supportive, and talkative she makes me proud to be an Oklahoma woman, how she handles herself is how I strive to handle myself.
I adored this book and it has surprisingly turned into one of my favorites. Catherine brought a couple tough pills to swallow with this book but if you can get through them the sun and your smile be shining so brightly in the end.
October 22, 2015
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So I just learned about Catherine Gayle and the Portland Storm series earlier this year when I met her at Dallas RT. I was fortunate enough to be the winner of her Portland Storm give away. I quickly devoured the whole series and continued to devour each book in her hockey series that she has released. I love all of them and Smoke Signals was no different.
We meet Razor in the Portland storm series where he is mainly the arrogant friend of our favorite Babs. Smoke Signals shows us a deeper perspective in to his life and character. Tori is also a very complex character with a tormented past. The book really illustrated the theme of not judging a person by their cover. Although the book has very adult subject matter it is presented in a mature manner.
I enjoyed watching Razor and Tori grow as individuals and as a couple through the book. I couldn't put the book down once I started. I loved seeing more of Tallie and Hunter as well as seeing a new side of Dima. Can you say melt when we see Harper and Dima???? Razor's relationship with his mother is inspirational.
I would give this book more than 5 stars if possible. If you are looking for an emotional roller coaster with personal growth and strength with a bit of hockey thrown in, this is your series and book!
So I just learned about Catherine Gayle and the Portland Storm series earlier this year when I met her at Dallas RT. I was fortunate enough to be the winner of her Portland Storm give away. I quickly devoured the whole series and continued to devour each book in her hockey series that she has released. I love all of them and Smoke Signals was no different.
We meet Razor in the Portland storm series where he is mainly the arrogant friend of our favorite Babs. Smoke Signals shows us a deeper perspective in to his life and character. Tori is also a very complex character with a tormented past. The book really illustrated the theme of not judging a person by their cover. Although the book has very adult subject matter it is presented in a mature manner.
I enjoyed watching Razor and Tori grow as individuals and as a couple through the book. I couldn't put the book down once I started. I loved seeing more of Tallie and Hunter as well as seeing a new side of Dima. Can you say melt when we see Harper and Dima???? Razor's relationship with his mother is inspirational.
I would give this book more than 5 stars if possible. If you are looking for an emotional roller coaster with personal growth and strength with a bit of hockey thrown in, this is your series and book!
September 29, 2015
I received a free arc of Smoke Signals in exchange for an honest review
I have enjoyed all Catherine Gayle's hockey romance stories. I think I've loved them since Babs accidentally stole all the readers hearts. While blushing dimpled Babs is perfectly wonderful my immediate thoughts were of his bad boy best friend Ray "Razor" Chambers. In meeting Ms. Gayle at RT in New Orleans I asked her about Razor she quickly told me he wasn't hero material. I am so glad she changed her mind.
The Thunderbirds are little rough around the edges but soft in the right places. Okay so they might be the Bad News Bears of hockey. They keep with Catherine Gayles' mentality of real life issues having a place in fiction. Razor and Tori's story is dark and in some ways one of the hardest couplings Gayle has written about. If you follow her work she doesn't shy away from any topic. Seeing Tori through Razor's eyes and then seeing her find herself is amazing. He truly is a good man. And who doesn't love his mama. Plus seeing Tallie stretch her wings and stand up for others makes me so very happy. This marriage may have been meant to be one of convenience but with Tori's past nothing was easy. But with love, family, therapy, and teammates anything is possible. It may have began in search of a green card but ended with both Tori and Razor giving each other permanent tokens of true love.
I have enjoyed all Catherine Gayle's hockey romance stories. I think I've loved them since Babs accidentally stole all the readers hearts. While blushing dimpled Babs is perfectly wonderful my immediate thoughts were of his bad boy best friend Ray "Razor" Chambers. In meeting Ms. Gayle at RT in New Orleans I asked her about Razor she quickly told me he wasn't hero material. I am so glad she changed her mind.
The Thunderbirds are little rough around the edges but soft in the right places. Okay so they might be the Bad News Bears of hockey. They keep with Catherine Gayles' mentality of real life issues having a place in fiction. Razor and Tori's story is dark and in some ways one of the hardest couplings Gayle has written about. If you follow her work she doesn't shy away from any topic. Seeing Tori through Razor's eyes and then seeing her find herself is amazing. He truly is a good man. And who doesn't love his mama. Plus seeing Tallie stretch her wings and stand up for others makes me so very happy. This marriage may have been meant to be one of convenience but with Tori's past nothing was easy. But with love, family, therapy, and teammates anything is possible. It may have began in search of a green card but ended with both Tori and Razor giving each other permanent tokens of true love.
October 23, 2015
if you looking for a story to get lost in all you have to do is click buy -Smoke signals sucks you in from the very first page until the very last. The story kicks off in Vegas on the eve of Jamie Babcock and Katie Webber wedding ( if you haven't read dropping gloves just do yourself a favor and read it, you'll thank me for it) although this book has appearances from characters from the Portland storm series you don't have to be up to speed to fall in love with this story, it totally stands on its on feet. Ray "Razor" Chamber may be OK with the world thinking he a asshole but the truth is he has a heart of gold. Ray knows better then anyone that desperate people do desperate things. Viktoriya Dubrouskaya never had its easy, she fled Russia hoping to stay out of the sex trade and fulfill her dream of being a ballerina. but after her father death quickly realized dreams weren't going to pay the bills and ends up working in porn . when school finds out she is immediately drop from the program with that comes the cancellation of her student visa. Desperate to stay in the USA Viktoriya end up in Vegas looking to sale herself for quick cash. She end up propositioning Razor who counters her with marriage. Each has there reason for wanting the marriage but neither realized that they could be the missing piece other were both looking for.
October 9, 2015
It’s absolutely no secret that I love Catherine Gayle! And when she spun her Portland Storm into the Tulsa Thunderbirds? I didn’t hesitate to jump right in!! (And let’s be real – it’s just a continuation of the same fantastic stories!)
Fans of the Portland Storm can’t miss this one either, because Catherine has done something GENIUS!! She opens the second book in this new series with the wedding of Babs and Katie!!! **SWOON**
But it’s quick to jump into the action, and the tough subjects. Razor has so much more depth than I could ever imagine!! (If you’re not up to date? You need to read the Portland Storm books – Razor was the best friend of Jamie “Babs” Babcock, but was traded a few books back…) And Tori? Well, I just love her story – even if it breaks my heart.
See? Catherine Gayle is famous for this. She breaks your heart. She just rips it in two. She doesn’t care!! But then? She does something amazing, and she builds up these phenomenally broken characters. And she does it in a way that’s so real. I just love it.
(As I’ve said before, she makes me wish I could fall in love all over again!!! But, Mr Jac wouldn’t love that idea… HA HA HA!!)
I feel like I can’t write a whole lot about this book because it’ll give it away. And I also feel like I could gush on and on forever, because I LOVE it. So you’ll just have to grab it and read for yourself!
Fans of the Portland Storm can’t miss this one either, because Catherine has done something GENIUS!! She opens the second book in this new series with the wedding of Babs and Katie!!! **SWOON**
But it’s quick to jump into the action, and the tough subjects. Razor has so much more depth than I could ever imagine!! (If you’re not up to date? You need to read the Portland Storm books – Razor was the best friend of Jamie “Babs” Babcock, but was traded a few books back…) And Tori? Well, I just love her story – even if it breaks my heart.
See? Catherine Gayle is famous for this. She breaks your heart. She just rips it in two. She doesn’t care!! But then? She does something amazing, and she builds up these phenomenally broken characters. And she does it in a way that’s so real. I just love it.
(As I’ve said before, she makes me wish I could fall in love all over again!!! But, Mr Jac wouldn’t love that idea… HA HA HA!!)
I feel like I can’t write a whole lot about this book because it’ll give it away. And I also feel like I could gush on and on forever, because I LOVE it. So you’ll just have to grab it and read for yourself!
October 29, 2015
I received a free arc of Smoke Signals for an honest review.
Smokes Signals features a former Portland Storm player Ray"Razor" Chambers. Razor meets Viktoriya "Tori" while in Las Vegas for Babs and Katie's wedding. He is propositioned by Viktoriya for sex. Razor however through his own personal experiences with his mother, knows that there is something more to the story than she is letting on. Razor while known to be a ladies man knows that he has to protect her. He must get through the wall that "Tori" has built around her heart in order to help her. Throughout the story, we see a softer, caring side of this macho hockey player. The story also delves into the struggles faced by Tori and how she is judged her based upon her past. Yes Tori has done things that she is not proud of, however when faced with adversity she did what she had to survive. I have to say I love Tallie from the first book, Bury the Hachet even more. Throughout the book, heartache is slowly replaced with love and acceptance. I truly love this series!!! I would suggest reading book one first. A definite must read!!!
Smokes Signals features a former Portland Storm player Ray"Razor" Chambers. Razor meets Viktoriya "Tori" while in Las Vegas for Babs and Katie's wedding. He is propositioned by Viktoriya for sex. Razor however through his own personal experiences with his mother, knows that there is something more to the story than she is letting on. Razor while known to be a ladies man knows that he has to protect her. He must get through the wall that "Tori" has built around her heart in order to help her. Throughout the story, we see a softer, caring side of this macho hockey player. The story also delves into the struggles faced by Tori and how she is judged her based upon her past. Yes Tori has done things that she is not proud of, however when faced with adversity she did what she had to survive. I have to say I love Tallie from the first book, Bury the Hachet even more. Throughout the book, heartache is slowly replaced with love and acceptance. I truly love this series!!! I would suggest reading book one first. A definite must read!!!
July 29, 2016
This book broke my heart a little for Tori, and Razor but I have to say, I loved how amazing Tallie is now that she has her feet underneath her!
Tori has had a hellish life, had to make hellish decisions, and because of that, doesn't trust anyone or herself. Razor has watched his mom make hellish decisions and recognizes a piece of that in Tori. And just like that, the Razor we knew fades away and this deep, insightful, patient, loving, and supportive man takes his place. He may be one way with his teammates and friends, but he is so caring with Tori, you heart hurts that she can't trust that
This is the building of a relationship, and while there is some sexy scenes, they aren't the focus here. You don't even realize that is the case until you are done, because of the flow of the story. It was as beautiful as much as amazing!
Tori has had a hellish life, had to make hellish decisions, and because of that, doesn't trust anyone or herself. Razor has watched his mom make hellish decisions and recognizes a piece of that in Tori. And just like that, the Razor we knew fades away and this deep, insightful, patient, loving, and supportive man takes his place. He may be one way with his teammates and friends, but he is so caring with Tori, you heart hurts that she can't trust that
This is the building of a relationship, and while there is some sexy scenes, they aren't the focus here. You don't even realize that is the case until you are done, because of the flow of the story. It was as beautiful as much as amazing!
May 20, 2016
Too much detail on what she went through. Very disturbing reading. There was good character growth and realistic conflicts and resolutions in their relationship. The protagonists are likable, and that brings me to another point.
The Razor in the first story where he is introduced with Babs said some pretty disrespectful and disgusting things about women. The Razor in this story with the backstory about his mother would not say any of those things. It would be completely out of character for him. So basically, she completely changed the character in order to be able to make him a romantic lead.
The original Razor was completely unlikable and I was relieved when he was traded away from the team. I have no idea why others wanted him to get his own story. O_o I get why the author had to change him entirely to make him likable.
The Razor in the first story where he is introduced with Babs said some pretty disrespectful and disgusting things about women. The Razor in this story with the backstory about his mother would not say any of those things. It would be completely out of character for him. So basically, she completely changed the character in order to be able to make him a romantic lead.
The original Razor was completely unlikable and I was relieved when he was traded away from the team. I have no idea why others wanted him to get his own story. O_o I get why the author had to change him entirely to make him likable.
October 6, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.. this story blew me away.. it talks about real life issues and teaches you a lesson about how desperate times call for desperate measures.. We meet Tori and Razor in Vegas and we are quickly wrapped up in their journey.. this book touches sensible parts of the characters lives and you will definitely feel what they're feeling as you read! I really liked how they slowly fell in love.. it wasn't rushed and everything moved smoothly, and I forgot to mention that there was hockey in this book, which was really a bonus! I can't wait for book 3! well done Miss Gayle!
October 25, 2015
This is the second book in the author's 'Tulsa Thunderbirds' hockey series, which is a spin-off of her 'Portland Storm' hockey series.
Even though this book deals with the heroine's dark and painful history of physical and sexual abuse, the overall story is one of love and respect for yourself and those you care for. I adored Ray (Razor) and Viktoriya (Tori) and their path towards their HEA. As an added bonus, the early scenes in the book take place at the wedding of Babs and Katie, beloved characters from the Portland Storm series.
Even though this book deals with the heroine's dark and painful history of physical and sexual abuse, the overall story is one of love and respect for yourself and those you care for. I adored Ray (Razor) and Viktoriya (Tori) and their path towards their HEA. As an added bonus, the early scenes in the book take place at the wedding of Babs and Katie, beloved characters from the Portland Storm series.
October 25, 2015
Tori's character broke my heart. I cried for her a few times. I loved this book, despite the tear-inducing qualities lol It's really hard not to love Razor. Great story and I can't wait for Dima's book!
September 3, 2018
I gave the book 3 stars because something about it had me coming back. I don’t feel Tori’s character was developed enough. I want to know more about her ballet past. I understand she was damaged but I didn’t feel like I got to know her except as a porn star and daughter to a dad she loved. The story of her Russian past was not developed enough for me. I found the meeting with the INS man incredibly anti-climatic. Wasn’t that what we were waiting to find out, if she could remain in the country? We got our answer but it seemed to negate everything about Razor and Tori developing their relationship, as if she would have been able to stay without her marrying Razor. I finished the book because, well that’s what I do, and I did want to find out her immigration status. It’s not a book I’ll look back on or want to reread.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2022
Everyone deserves a happy ending. Tori has had to go through more than the average person. Razor sees this the first night he meets her and steps in to be her protector. What I particularly enjoyed was the way he humanized her. She had so many problems to overcome but he was patient with her. This book deals with a lot of heavy themes but it's rooted in reality for the most part. I also liked their friends. Tallie was a hoot. While some parts felt a bit unnecessary, it didn't take away from the overall theme. Everyone deserves love regardless of their background and sometimes we just need one person in our corner.
July 28, 2017
I've been waiting for Razor's story since I started the Portland Storm series, wondering how in the world Gayle was going to turn him into a hero. And here she did it. Really well. She dealt with the sex abuse history of Tori really thoughtfully. Of course it's on a condensed time line, but still, she did address the aftereffects of her history.
Also, I need an entire book of Tallie speaking Southern. Because she is hysterical.
Also, I need an entire book of Tallie speaking Southern. Because she is hysterical.
September 30, 2017
More braincandy, a bit soap opera-ish, but still fun.
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