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In the Zone #4
Under the Spotlight
Book four of In the ZoneStage actress Christine Caspary couldn't care less about hockey, but when she first sees Joe Rutherford playing in a Barracudas game her mind goes to all sorts of dirty places. By happy chance, her work with Grant A Wish gives her an opportunity to meet him in the flesh.Right winger Joe Rutherford saw Christine perform when the team went to see Chicago and was so taken with her, he secretly saw the show a second time, alone. When the gorgeous actress with spectacular legs contacts him out of the blue asking for a favor, it's a no-brainer.Their chemistry is off the charts. Things heat up quickly and they can't keep their hands off each other. Soon they're hooking up whenever their busy schedules allow and having hot phone sex every night at midnight when they don't. But Joe's time in the hockey spotlight is fading, just as Christine's star begins to rise. When she gets her big break into a TV career, how will Joe take to being the arm candy for a change? Don't miss more Barracuda action in On the Surface, Across the Line, and Out of the Game, available now!
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2015
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657 people want to read
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December 18, 2015
I was definitely in the mood for a hockey romance and so it wasn't hard to go with Kate Willoughby's In the Zone series. I've read the first two books and liked her blend of sport, romance, and solid characters. This was the fourth book and I had skipped book three, but I did alright so it would definitely work as a standalone or out of order. Though that said, I will eventually go back for book three.
This story opens with another new year for the Barracudas. Joe 'Fordy' Rutherford knows he is a senior player and is staring retirement in the face. He loves playing and works his butt off to keep up with the younger guys and stay at the level of play needed for the pros. The coach recognizes other qualities in him that include teaching and mentoring so Joe is given the bright, emerging rookie star to look after for the season. Joe has a heart for charity work and doing what he can to give back so he doesn't say no when he is approached about a 'Grant a Wish' sort of request regarding a child. And that brings a surprise chance at love into Joe's life if he can sort through his feelings about her fame and acting.
Christine Caspary is a stage actress aspiring to make it big. She has talent and drive and just needs her chance. As she is working in the production of Annie, she continues to see a child she helped grant a wish for, but she wants to do more. Joe Rutherford a hockey player is the little girl's favorite player so even though Christine knows little about sports and has her own notions about the sorts that play hockey, she approaches Joe to help make a wish come true. Christine gets the surprise of her life when Joe is so much more than she imagines. This big gruff looking man is intelligent, caring, sensitive, and gentle off the ice. She is falling for him, but when she gets a chance at her dreams will Joe's issues and her own drive get in the way?
Alright, this was an enjoyable romance. Maybe because they come from two different worlds of the theater and the sports arena, the story felt like a modern fairy tale. I found it refreshing that the obstacles were in the here and now. Neither Joe nor Christine have dark pasts though Joe's recent experience with a cheating girlfriend and teammate does affect how he approaches this new chance at romance.
The obstacles were an interesting one and I confess I have wondered about this when it comes to people with acting carriers having relationships. The crux of it is that Christine's big break comes from starring on a cable show that has nudity, sex, and a love triangle and it's already a hotly anticipated show so that everyone will see Christine nude and sexy. Joe struggles with this and even gets harassed about it from other people (not his teammates). Christine claims she understands, but still expects Joe to just accept it. She had the opportunity to use a body double for the nude scenes, but feels it is better for her career to do all her own work. I was on the fence about this. While I get what she is saying in her 'you have to trust me or this won't work', I also get the fact that even if there aren't feelings between her and her co-stars, she is still asking him to be okay with her stripping down and going at it (even clinically) with two other guys for an audience of millions. And she definitely can't say that she would be fine with it if the reverse were true because she gets a little riled at the thought of puck bunnies even though girls fanning over hockey players with clothes on doesn't go near what she's asking him to accept. Interesting scenario.
Beyond making me ponder such a tough, unique romance conflict, there is also the side story of the rookie learning how to handle his star pro status and Joe's part in helping him along the path. It added some depth and heart even while sharing another aspect of the hockey/sports world. I felt the story was an easy read. The writing is smooth and easy. It was fun getting the camaraderie between all the Barracuda players and catching up with the ones who have already gotten their stories.
The romance starts out slowly because they have to conduct it long distance with her traveling with the theater troupe and him traveling with his hockey team. Joe makes this grand gesture of chartering a plane to see her for one day between games. Christine also sends him a ticket to her play which Joe loved because he loves plays and especially ones Christine is in. Their date to the Sand Festival was a cute idea on Joe's part. They are a good couple and I was happily engaged with their story. Joe is a 'what you see is what you get' guy. He has average looks and has to work hard, but he has such heart. Christine is sweet and also has to work hard to achieve her goals. They are so easy and relaxed together, but heat of attraction is pulsing under the surface. Christine won't let that push them too fast- loved seeing that, too.
All in all, this fourth installment of the series was engaging and I loved the romance and the story of Joe and Christine. For those who enjoy spicy sports romance with a nice balance of both sport and romance, this book/series is a good bet.
I received this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
This story opens with another new year for the Barracudas. Joe 'Fordy' Rutherford knows he is a senior player and is staring retirement in the face. He loves playing and works his butt off to keep up with the younger guys and stay at the level of play needed for the pros. The coach recognizes other qualities in him that include teaching and mentoring so Joe is given the bright, emerging rookie star to look after for the season. Joe has a heart for charity work and doing what he can to give back so he doesn't say no when he is approached about a 'Grant a Wish' sort of request regarding a child. And that brings a surprise chance at love into Joe's life if he can sort through his feelings about her fame and acting.
Christine Caspary is a stage actress aspiring to make it big. She has talent and drive and just needs her chance. As she is working in the production of Annie, she continues to see a child she helped grant a wish for, but she wants to do more. Joe Rutherford a hockey player is the little girl's favorite player so even though Christine knows little about sports and has her own notions about the sorts that play hockey, she approaches Joe to help make a wish come true. Christine gets the surprise of her life when Joe is so much more than she imagines. This big gruff looking man is intelligent, caring, sensitive, and gentle off the ice. She is falling for him, but when she gets a chance at her dreams will Joe's issues and her own drive get in the way?
Alright, this was an enjoyable romance. Maybe because they come from two different worlds of the theater and the sports arena, the story felt like a modern fairy tale. I found it refreshing that the obstacles were in the here and now. Neither Joe nor Christine have dark pasts though Joe's recent experience with a cheating girlfriend and teammate does affect how he approaches this new chance at romance.
The obstacles were an interesting one and I confess I have wondered about this when it comes to people with acting carriers having relationships. The crux of it is that Christine's big break comes from starring on a cable show that has nudity, sex, and a love triangle and it's already a hotly anticipated show so that everyone will see Christine nude and sexy. Joe struggles with this and even gets harassed about it from other people (not his teammates). Christine claims she understands, but still expects Joe to just accept it. She had the opportunity to use a body double for the nude scenes, but feels it is better for her career to do all her own work. I was on the fence about this. While I get what she is saying in her 'you have to trust me or this won't work', I also get the fact that even if there aren't feelings between her and her co-stars, she is still asking him to be okay with her stripping down and going at it (even clinically) with two other guys for an audience of millions. And she definitely can't say that she would be fine with it if the reverse were true because she gets a little riled at the thought of puck bunnies even though girls fanning over hockey players with clothes on doesn't go near what she's asking him to accept. Interesting scenario.
Beyond making me ponder such a tough, unique romance conflict, there is also the side story of the rookie learning how to handle his star pro status and Joe's part in helping him along the path. It added some depth and heart even while sharing another aspect of the hockey/sports world. I felt the story was an easy read. The writing is smooth and easy. It was fun getting the camaraderie between all the Barracuda players and catching up with the ones who have already gotten their stories.
The romance starts out slowly because they have to conduct it long distance with her traveling with the theater troupe and him traveling with his hockey team. Joe makes this grand gesture of chartering a plane to see her for one day between games. Christine also sends him a ticket to her play which Joe loved because he loves plays and especially ones Christine is in. Their date to the Sand Festival was a cute idea on Joe's part. They are a good couple and I was happily engaged with their story. Joe is a 'what you see is what you get' guy. He has average looks and has to work hard, but he has such heart. Christine is sweet and also has to work hard to achieve her goals. They are so easy and relaxed together, but heat of attraction is pulsing under the surface. Christine won't let that push them too fast- loved seeing that, too.
All in all, this fourth installment of the series was engaging and I loved the romance and the story of Joe and Christine. For those who enjoy spicy sports romance with a nice balance of both sport and romance, this book/series is a good bet.
I received this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2016
This is the fourth book in the hockey romance series, In The Zone, but my first time reading this author. I’m a sometime hockey fan – I live in a city that has a hockey team (The Winnipeg Jets) and I’ll watch the occasional game, though I’m not consumed by the sport. But when it comes to romances that combine sports with sexy scenes and a compelling story, I’m definitely interested. (Also, the hero is from Winnipeg! So how could I pass that up?!)
Christine is a stage actress, on the cusp of making the big break onto a cable tv series (the kind with lots of sex and violence). She’s involved in a children’s charity, Grant A Wish, and one of the young girls she meets happens to have a serious crush on Joe, a hockey player for the local Barracudas team. When she contacts him through their agents to see if Joe would be interested in helping out with the organization, Joe is quite happy to oblige – especially because Christine is an actress he’s seen and admired on stage, and the chance to meet her in person leaves him a little bit awestruck. He’s a celebrity in his own right of course, but one who’s starting to lose his appeal as his hockey career is on the waning edge. As Christine and Joe connect, their changing fortunes impact their burgeoning relationship. Will their shared experiences keep them together or will the wave of the future break them apart?
What an enjoyable story! I found it to be a very steady paced and interesting read, with lots of well researched parts about both Joe and Christine’s careers. As a stage actress, Christine knows the move to TV is one that can make or break her future, and also one that will change per public persona (for better or worse). But she’s willing to take the risks with the paparazzi for the commercial success that she’s been gunning for, for several years. I liked all of the scenes describing her experiences behind the stage, and with the auditioning process and so on for the tv show. Christine came across as a smart, confident and sexy woman. Joe too is no stranger to the public eye. As an accomplished hockey player, he’s been on a winning and losing team and seen the fallouts from both. He’s a determined, strong man – but he’s also smart enough to know that his career is winding down, and he doesn’t have the stamina that he used to. There are several scenes describing on ice action (the hockey kind! I know what you were thinking!) and Joe is also a mentor for an up and coming player, so we see some scenes detailing the kind of struggles new players to the game have as well. Lots of bromance too, with Joe’s hockey teammates having an important role in the story.
Joe and Christine connect from the start, and share several very steamy scenes, as Christine isn’t shy detailing what she wants and Joe is more than happy to deliver. But the sex isn’t enough to keep things going, as they encounter the long distance reality of him playing for a successful hockey team and Christine having to travel to where the work is for her acting career. On top of that, Joe struggles with the reality of the sex scenes that are in Christine’s scripts, and how his past relationship (that included a cheating ex who bared all to the public) affects his current one is part of their problems to overcome. Of course they eventually get past all the conflicts that bar their way, and we get a wonderful happy ending for the couple. I’m looking forward to catching up on the series and hearing more about the Barracudas team! 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
Christine is a stage actress, on the cusp of making the big break onto a cable tv series (the kind with lots of sex and violence). She’s involved in a children’s charity, Grant A Wish, and one of the young girls she meets happens to have a serious crush on Joe, a hockey player for the local Barracudas team. When she contacts him through their agents to see if Joe would be interested in helping out with the organization, Joe is quite happy to oblige – especially because Christine is an actress he’s seen and admired on stage, and the chance to meet her in person leaves him a little bit awestruck. He’s a celebrity in his own right of course, but one who’s starting to lose his appeal as his hockey career is on the waning edge. As Christine and Joe connect, their changing fortunes impact their burgeoning relationship. Will their shared experiences keep them together or will the wave of the future break them apart?
What an enjoyable story! I found it to be a very steady paced and interesting read, with lots of well researched parts about both Joe and Christine’s careers. As a stage actress, Christine knows the move to TV is one that can make or break her future, and also one that will change per public persona (for better or worse). But she’s willing to take the risks with the paparazzi for the commercial success that she’s been gunning for, for several years. I liked all of the scenes describing her experiences behind the stage, and with the auditioning process and so on for the tv show. Christine came across as a smart, confident and sexy woman. Joe too is no stranger to the public eye. As an accomplished hockey player, he’s been on a winning and losing team and seen the fallouts from both. He’s a determined, strong man – but he’s also smart enough to know that his career is winding down, and he doesn’t have the stamina that he used to. There are several scenes describing on ice action (the hockey kind! I know what you were thinking!) and Joe is also a mentor for an up and coming player, so we see some scenes detailing the kind of struggles new players to the game have as well. Lots of bromance too, with Joe’s hockey teammates having an important role in the story.
Joe and Christine connect from the start, and share several very steamy scenes, as Christine isn’t shy detailing what she wants and Joe is more than happy to deliver. But the sex isn’t enough to keep things going, as they encounter the long distance reality of him playing for a successful hockey team and Christine having to travel to where the work is for her acting career. On top of that, Joe struggles with the reality of the sex scenes that are in Christine’s scripts, and how his past relationship (that included a cheating ex who bared all to the public) affects his current one is part of their problems to overcome. Of course they eventually get past all the conflicts that bar their way, and we get a wonderful happy ending for the couple. I’m looking forward to catching up on the series and hearing more about the Barracudas team! 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
June 21, 2016
3.5 stars
This series was one of my surprisingly exciting discoveries this year. I love the playfully sexy and sometimes sweet feel that this hockey romance series has and I’ve gobbled them up quite quickly for me. In this new installment we have another very original storyline. Joe isn’t the star of the team, in fact he’s considering it may be time for him to hang the skates and retire. He can’t skate as fast as the young up and coming newbies and he’s just been having a little bit of a rougher year.
In the midst of that two things happen. He’s assigned as the mentor to one of those newbies and has him move in with him for the season, and he gets a call from a theater actress about a charity thing. An actress he just happened to have seen on stage and thought she was extremely hot.
As much as Joe and Christine are almost polar opposites on many aspects, there’s still plenty that they connect through. It was fun to see Joe in this starring role because he’s not like the previous heroes in the series. Definitely more serious, straight forward and laid back. A little bit less daring and adventurous. He’s just a regular guy and that was a nice change of pace. Not the hero that you wonder who could handle. Christine on the other hand filled that role. She gets a very big part to be in a TV series and Joe has to deal with some of that fame. Some in good ways, some in bad.
Nonetheless, I found these two didn’t quite sizzle like the prior couples in the series. Although I liked them and liked their story, there wasn’t anything that kept me invested in them as characters. I am very interested in the side story character on this one. They have some sweet moments and some emotional struggles both together and apart. CJ, the newbie Joe is mentoring, has plenty to learn about life and his career. I can’t wait for him to get a book, hopefully soon.
The feeling of friendship that the team has keeps me coming back for more every time. It’s so much fun to see these big bad athletes care about the well being of their fellow players, more as if they are family than co-workers or friends. I absolutely love their dynamics! The ending of this book was brilliant. Didn’t quite wrap up with the gloom that I was expecting. It definitely put a smile on my face.
This series was one of my surprisingly exciting discoveries this year. I love the playfully sexy and sometimes sweet feel that this hockey romance series has and I’ve gobbled them up quite quickly for me. In this new installment we have another very original storyline. Joe isn’t the star of the team, in fact he’s considering it may be time for him to hang the skates and retire. He can’t skate as fast as the young up and coming newbies and he’s just been having a little bit of a rougher year.
In the midst of that two things happen. He’s assigned as the mentor to one of those newbies and has him move in with him for the season, and he gets a call from a theater actress about a charity thing. An actress he just happened to have seen on stage and thought she was extremely hot.
As much as Joe and Christine are almost polar opposites on many aspects, there’s still plenty that they connect through. It was fun to see Joe in this starring role because he’s not like the previous heroes in the series. Definitely more serious, straight forward and laid back. A little bit less daring and adventurous. He’s just a regular guy and that was a nice change of pace. Not the hero that you wonder who could handle. Christine on the other hand filled that role. She gets a very big part to be in a TV series and Joe has to deal with some of that fame. Some in good ways, some in bad.
Nonetheless, I found these two didn’t quite sizzle like the prior couples in the series. Although I liked them and liked their story, there wasn’t anything that kept me invested in them as characters. I am very interested in the side story character on this one. They have some sweet moments and some emotional struggles both together and apart. CJ, the newbie Joe is mentoring, has plenty to learn about life and his career. I can’t wait for him to get a book, hopefully soon.
The feeling of friendship that the team has keeps me coming back for more every time. It’s so much fun to see these big bad athletes care about the well being of their fellow players, more as if they are family than co-workers or friends. I absolutely love their dynamics! The ending of this book was brilliant. Didn’t quite wrap up with the gloom that I was expecting. It definitely put a smile on my face.
November 17, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love hockey romance books, and pair that with a hockey star who's getting 'up there in age' (early thirties is old in sports, you know)... I knew that I'd enjoy this one. Joe Rutherford is a great player, but he's definitely a veteran of the team. When he's paired up with a rookie, he wants to bail -- but as coach says, everyone else has babies at home and he's a damn good player, so he takes the young kid under his wing.
My favorite part of this story was likely Joe learning to deal with a young gun who was likely going to be better than him, but also finding himself in a romance with a woman who's star was going to shine brighter than his. Joe has a lot to overcome, emotionally and mentally, in this story and Christine definitely helps him along the way, even if at times she feels she's holding him back. Joe has jealous moments, sure, but when he learns to be selfless and open, those were the best sides to this hockey playing man.
This was such a fun read; I enjoyed every moment of it.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love hockey romance books, and pair that with a hockey star who's getting 'up there in age' (early thirties is old in sports, you know)... I knew that I'd enjoy this one. Joe Rutherford is a great player, but he's definitely a veteran of the team. When he's paired up with a rookie, he wants to bail -- but as coach says, everyone else has babies at home and he's a damn good player, so he takes the young kid under his wing.
My favorite part of this story was likely Joe learning to deal with a young gun who was likely going to be better than him, but also finding himself in a romance with a woman who's star was going to shine brighter than his. Joe has a lot to overcome, emotionally and mentally, in this story and Christine definitely helps him along the way, even if at times she feels she's holding him back. Joe has jealous moments, sure, but when he learns to be selfless and open, those were the best sides to this hockey playing man.
This was such a fun read; I enjoyed every moment of it.
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August 5, 2023Hi, everyone! It's me, Kate, the author. I'm excited to see that UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT is here on Goodreads already and that so many of you have marked it as "To Read."
I wanted to thank everyone in advance for taking the time to rate and/or review the book. I love the feedback, whether good or critical. I'm always trying to improve as a writer and readers' impressions are important to me.
If you'd like to get the latest news about me and my books, plus cool stuff like never-before-seen excerpts, please subscribe to my newsletter. It's the best way to keep current with the Barracudas. :)
http://www.katewilloughbyauthor.com/p...
I wanted to thank everyone in advance for taking the time to rate and/or review the book. I love the feedback, whether good or critical. I'm always trying to improve as a writer and readers' impressions are important to me.
If you'd like to get the latest news about me and my books, plus cool stuff like never-before-seen excerpts, please subscribe to my newsletter. It's the best way to keep current with the Barracudas. :)
http://www.katewilloughbyauthor.com/p...
November 17, 2015
I love everything hockey and this hockey book really did it for me because some authors write only about the young hockey stars, but what about the veterans that are close to the end of their careers? well this book its for you then! Kate wrote an amazing book about the fears of having to retire and not knowing what's going to happen, but not only that we get to see Joe fall in love with an actress and deal with a long distance relationship.. just when you think everything is going to be unicorns and rainbows Kate gives you a shocking moment that could either make them or break them.. I really enjoyed this book and I hope there's more to come!!
December 12, 2015
4 stars
I really enjoyed Under the Spotlight by Kate Willoughby.
The characters were likable and believable, the storyline held my interest from the start.
I liked both Joe and Christine's characters, they were good people who loved unconditionally and were able to work through the different stages of their careers to find their HEA.
I've really enjoyed the In the Zone series, each book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Carina Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.
I really enjoyed Under the Spotlight by Kate Willoughby.
The characters were likable and believable, the storyline held my interest from the start.
I liked both Joe and Christine's characters, they were good people who loved unconditionally and were able to work through the different stages of their careers to find their HEA.
I've really enjoyed the In the Zone series, each book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend them all.
Thank you to Carina Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.
October 27, 2015
Joe has a way with words, “I’m going to eff you so hard, the neighbors are going to wonder what the eff’s going on.” Leo always has great plans for his woman, “yes. This is the dining room where I plan on having sex with you on the table... and here’s the living room. Sofa sex. Hearth sex and then hot chocolate.” I really enjoyed this book Joe was just one of those guys you couldn't help but love.
December 13, 2015
Actress, Christine Caspary, recruits San Diego Barracudas right winger, Joe Rutherford to meet a little girl whom she met through the Grant A Wish Foundation. The two have chemistry, but their schedules and point of their careers make a relationship challenging.
I enjoyed Joe’s character. He has lived and breathed hockey his whole life. Now nearing the end of his career, he has to decide what his life will entail after he retires. It does not help to be surrounded by people that are at the start of their careers. Joe is a great guy. He cares about others. I love that Joe had a crush on Christine before she contacts him.
I like that Joe mentored rookie, CJ Noonan. Having rookies live with a host family or a veteran player is a big thing in hockey. I enjoyed reading about that situation. Noony’s character transformed a lot through this story and added interest to the book. He went through some relevant growing pains that were very realistic in his situation. Having a son who plays hockey, I enjoyed some of Joe’s tips like keeping a journal about how he played in his games and things that happened so he could refresh his memory before he played that team again.
Both of my parents were born in Hungary. So I love that Christine is Hungarian. I could relate to her family’s traditions, especially the food and holidays. It made me crave my family's cooking. Kate Willoughby did a great job capturing the Hungarian culture.
I appreciated the similarities between Joe and Christine’s professions, for example; they are both very superstitious; they are away from home a lot; and they are in the eye of the public. They were things that made it easy for the couple to relate.
The plot was believable and thoroughly constructed. The hockey scenes are well described. A lot of things happen that keep the reader engaged.
This is the first book I have read by Kate Willoughby. I really enjoyed her writing style. I definitely want to back-track and read the preceding books in the In the Zone Series. I have a feeling I would have even enjoyed Under the Spotlight more having known the history of the characters from the previous books. I highly recommend this book to lovers of sports romances.
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Joe’s character. He has lived and breathed hockey his whole life. Now nearing the end of his career, he has to decide what his life will entail after he retires. It does not help to be surrounded by people that are at the start of their careers. Joe is a great guy. He cares about others. I love that Joe had a crush on Christine before she contacts him.
I like that Joe mentored rookie, CJ Noonan. Having rookies live with a host family or a veteran player is a big thing in hockey. I enjoyed reading about that situation. Noony’s character transformed a lot through this story and added interest to the book. He went through some relevant growing pains that were very realistic in his situation. Having a son who plays hockey, I enjoyed some of Joe’s tips like keeping a journal about how he played in his games and things that happened so he could refresh his memory before he played that team again.
Both of my parents were born in Hungary. So I love that Christine is Hungarian. I could relate to her family’s traditions, especially the food and holidays. It made me crave my family's cooking. Kate Willoughby did a great job capturing the Hungarian culture.
I appreciated the similarities between Joe and Christine’s professions, for example; they are both very superstitious; they are away from home a lot; and they are in the eye of the public. They were things that made it easy for the couple to relate.
The plot was believable and thoroughly constructed. The hockey scenes are well described. A lot of things happen that keep the reader engaged.
This is the first book I have read by Kate Willoughby. I really enjoyed her writing style. I definitely want to back-track and read the preceding books in the In the Zone Series. I have a feeling I would have even enjoyed Under the Spotlight more having known the history of the characters from the previous books. I highly recommend this book to lovers of sports romances.
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2015
This is the fourth book in this series and while I enjoyed the other books I didn't really fall in love with Christine and Joe's story.
In this book Joe falls for and up and coming actress, Christine. I know with two lives in separate spotlights are hard but these two had a hard time coming together as a couple. Joe was on the road a lot and Christine was hitting different cities to promote her play. I think maybe I was just missing the connection between these two characters because they didn't spend a lot of time together.
One thing I love about Willoughby's stories is the characters have funny banter and the sex scenes are worthy of reading. Even though I didn't connect with these two characters I did love how Willoughby had them take the relationship slow and they didn't rush into bed. They took the time to just take, talk on the phone and feel each other out a bit.
I would've love to see more of a conflict then the trust issues. Maybe Joe's ex could have come back in the picture or maybe Patrick could have made moves on Christine to spicing up the story a little.
I have only seen one hockey game in my life but the way Willoughby tells the story of her characters it makes me feel like I am right there along with them when they are on the ice.
I am invested in this series and I can't wait to see whose book will be next? In a way I would love for it to be CJ but I don't think he's seasoned enough.
In this book Joe falls for and up and coming actress, Christine. I know with two lives in separate spotlights are hard but these two had a hard time coming together as a couple. Joe was on the road a lot and Christine was hitting different cities to promote her play. I think maybe I was just missing the connection between these two characters because they didn't spend a lot of time together.
One thing I love about Willoughby's stories is the characters have funny banter and the sex scenes are worthy of reading. Even though I didn't connect with these two characters I did love how Willoughby had them take the relationship slow and they didn't rush into bed. They took the time to just take, talk on the phone and feel each other out a bit.
I would've love to see more of a conflict then the trust issues. Maybe Joe's ex could have come back in the picture or maybe Patrick could have made moves on Christine to spicing up the story a little.
I have only seen one hockey game in my life but the way Willoughby tells the story of her characters it makes me feel like I am right there along with them when they are on the ice.
I am invested in this series and I can't wait to see whose book will be next? In a way I would love for it to be CJ but I don't think he's seasoned enough.
November 13, 2015
Under the Spotlight is a cute, spicy and at times funny read by Kate Willoughby. This is the 1st book I've read in the series and I can't wait to go back and read the other 3 books now. Sparks fly and the chemistry is unreal between these two. Can two people with busy careers and schedules make it work?
Joe Rutherford, right winger for the NHL's Barracudas is a veteran of the team and a role model for younger players. Joe has been hurt in his last relationship and as time goes on wondering if he'll ever find his true match.
Christine Caspary, a stage actress, has a friend from the make a wish program that loves Joe from the Barracudas and Christine decides she want to make another one of this little girls wishes come true. Little did Christine know she's already met Joe and he's a fan of her stage work.
I really enjoyed this book it was a refreshing take on a adult relationship with people who's careers conflict. Can they make it work? Will they make the effort and the sacrifices on both sides to see it through? I give Under the Spotlight 4.5 Stars.
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
Joe Rutherford, right winger for the NHL's Barracudas is a veteran of the team and a role model for younger players. Joe has been hurt in his last relationship and as time goes on wondering if he'll ever find his true match.
Christine Caspary, a stage actress, has a friend from the make a wish program that loves Joe from the Barracudas and Christine decides she want to make another one of this little girls wishes come true. Little did Christine know she's already met Joe and he's a fan of her stage work.
I really enjoyed this book it was a refreshing take on a adult relationship with people who's careers conflict. Can they make it work? Will they make the effort and the sacrifices on both sides to see it through? I give Under the Spotlight 4.5 Stars.
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
December 22, 2015
Neither of the two main characters clicked for me, unfortunately. Joe came across as (sorry, Joe!) boring. Christine was hypocritical and superficial and seemed older, more like a 35 year old woman - every time the story referenced her age (26) it took me by surprise all over again.
Both the characters read as a little flat and, despite my best efforts, I never really got interested in them. However, I see that I'm in the minority on this one, so don't let me deter you.
There were several grammatical and spelling errors but I assume those will be corrected by publishing time.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Both the characters read as a little flat and, despite my best efforts, I never really got interested in them. However, I see that I'm in the minority on this one, so don't let me deter you.
There were several grammatical and spelling errors but I assume those will be corrected by publishing time.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
December 14, 2015
I've REALLY enjoyed this series so I was pretty happy when I received the ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. Thankfully, Kate Willoughby was gracious enough to give me the ARC without me having to resort to begging. I would've begged. I really would've!
I couldn't help but love Joe. He's a guy who loves hockey. As a veteran player he's facing some tough decisions now that he's on the tail end of his career...
You can read my review here: http://wp.me/p18bP3-2vN
I couldn't help but love Joe. He's a guy who loves hockey. As a veteran player he's facing some tough decisions now that he's on the tail end of his career...
You can read my review here: http://wp.me/p18bP3-2vN
December 16, 2015
This series was one of my surprisingly exciting discoveries this year. I love the playfully sexy and sometimes sweet feel that this hockey romance series has and I've gobbled them up quite quickly for me. :) In this new installment we have another very original storyline. Joe isn't the star of the team, in fact he's considering it may be time for him to hang the skates and retire. He can't skate as fast as the young up and coming newbies and he's just been having a little bit of a rougher year.
In the midst of that two things happen. He's assigned as the mentor to one of those newbies and has him move in with him for the season, and he gets a call from a theater actress about a charity thing. An actress he just happened to have seen on stage and thought she was extremely hot.
As much as Joe and Christine are almost polar opposites on many aspects, there's still plenty that they connect through. It was fun to see Joe in this starring role because he's not like the previous heroes in the series. Definitely more serious, straight forward and laid back. A little bit less daring and adventurous. He's just a regular guy and that was a nice change of pace. Not the hero that you wonder who could handle. Christine on the other hand filled that role. She gets a very big part to be in a TV series and Joe has to deal with some of that fame. Some in good ways, some in bad.
Nonetheless, I found these two didn't quite sizzle like the prior couples in the series. Although I liked them and liked their story, there wasn't anything that kept me invested in them as characters. I am very interested in the side story character on this one. They have some sweet moments and some emotional struggles both together and apart. CJ, the newbie Joe is mentoring, has plenty to learn about life and his career. I can't wait for him to get a book, hopefully soon.
The feeling of friendship that the team has keeps me coming back for more every time. It's so much fun to see these big bad athletes care about the well being of their fellow players, more as if they are family than co-workers or friends. I absolutely love their dynamics! The ending of this book was brilliant. Didn't quite wrap up with the gloom that I was expecting. It definitely put a smile on my face.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca
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November 28, 2015
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com
I was given an advanced copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
This is the fourth book in series and each book is a standalone about a different hockey player on the San Diego Barracudas. Joe Rutherford, a professional hockey player with the Barracudas meets Christine Caspary, a struggling actress when she contacts him about visiting a little girl in the hospital. There is an immediate attraction between Joe and Christine although their relationship develops slowly over time. Since their careers require so much travel, Joe and Christine rarely see each other for the first half of the book and they keep in touch with phone calls and texts.
Christine is an aggressive and confident woman and she knows what she wants and goes after it. She works hard on her career and does not let anything get in her way of succeeding. On the other hand, even though Joe is a successful hockey player, he lacks confidence. Joe is a sweet guy and has many admirable qualities. What I admired the most about Joe was that he never weavers in feelings for Christine and also how he helps a rookie develop into a great player. Even though Joe isn’t enthusiastic about mentoring the rookie, it is sweet how he worries and gives so much of his time to the rookie. Joe has a strong bond with his teammates. In fact, my favorite parts of the book were the guys on the team and the camaraderie they shared. They love to play jokes on each other but always have each other’s backs.
I really enjoyed the other books in this series and I was excited to read this book but something was missing in this one. I wish there was more conflict and excitement in the story and I had a hard time connecting with Joe and Christine. I always enjoy stories about hot athletes and Kate Willoughby writes a sweet hockey romance and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I was given an advanced copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.
This is the fourth book in series and each book is a standalone about a different hockey player on the San Diego Barracudas. Joe Rutherford, a professional hockey player with the Barracudas meets Christine Caspary, a struggling actress when she contacts him about visiting a little girl in the hospital. There is an immediate attraction between Joe and Christine although their relationship develops slowly over time. Since their careers require so much travel, Joe and Christine rarely see each other for the first half of the book and they keep in touch with phone calls and texts.
Christine is an aggressive and confident woman and she knows what she wants and goes after it. She works hard on her career and does not let anything get in her way of succeeding. On the other hand, even though Joe is a successful hockey player, he lacks confidence. Joe is a sweet guy and has many admirable qualities. What I admired the most about Joe was that he never weavers in feelings for Christine and also how he helps a rookie develop into a great player. Even though Joe isn’t enthusiastic about mentoring the rookie, it is sweet how he worries and gives so much of his time to the rookie. Joe has a strong bond with his teammates. In fact, my favorite parts of the book were the guys on the team and the camaraderie they shared. They love to play jokes on each other but always have each other’s backs.
I really enjoyed the other books in this series and I was excited to read this book but something was missing in this one. I wish there was more conflict and excitement in the story and I had a hard time connecting with Joe and Christine. I always enjoy stories about hot athletes and Kate Willoughby writes a sweet hockey romance and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 21, 2016
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
I have to admit, I couldn't remember Joe at all from the previous books, and it didn't take me long to realise why. Simply put, Joe is just your garden-variety nice guy. Heck, I'd even go so far as to say he's unremarkable, and he quite likes it that way. But I think it's because of that that I really liked him. It's nice to read about a guy who doesn't have anger issues. Who isn't a manwhore. Whose life hasn't been shaped by a terrible event that happened to him twenty years ago. He's just a nice guy who hasn't found the right girl yet. Christine is effectively his total opposite. She's a theatre actress hoping to land a TV role that would turn her into a household name. While Joe is more than happy with his relative anonymity, Christine is hopeful her talents will be recognised and seen by a much larger audience. Thankfully she's not a diva and doesn't seem like the type who'll let fame go to her head. But their hectic schedules don't leave much time for romance, and while he may be a nice guy, can Joe's ego handle his career possibly coming to an end just as Christine's career begins?
UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT is told in dual POVs and while it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I loved reading the scenes that involved Joe's teammates as they showed how the team is like a big family, annoying kid brother included. A family that's ready to stand up for you or knock you down a peg or two when needed. The pranks and jokes they played on each other were funny and kept the book relatively light. I'm assuming there will be a fifth book, but at this stage I can't figure out who it would be about. Not that it matters to me who it's about because I'm sure I'll be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit, I couldn't remember Joe at all from the previous books, and it didn't take me long to realise why. Simply put, Joe is just your garden-variety nice guy. Heck, I'd even go so far as to say he's unremarkable, and he quite likes it that way. But I think it's because of that that I really liked him. It's nice to read about a guy who doesn't have anger issues. Who isn't a manwhore. Whose life hasn't been shaped by a terrible event that happened to him twenty years ago. He's just a nice guy who hasn't found the right girl yet. Christine is effectively his total opposite. She's a theatre actress hoping to land a TV role that would turn her into a household name. While Joe is more than happy with his relative anonymity, Christine is hopeful her talents will be recognised and seen by a much larger audience. Thankfully she's not a diva and doesn't seem like the type who'll let fame go to her head. But their hectic schedules don't leave much time for romance, and while he may be a nice guy, can Joe's ego handle his career possibly coming to an end just as Christine's career begins?
UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT is told in dual POVs and while it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I loved reading the scenes that involved Joe's teammates as they showed how the team is like a big family, annoying kid brother included. A family that's ready to stand up for you or knock you down a peg or two when needed. The pranks and jokes they played on each other were funny and kept the book relatively light. I'm assuming there will be a fifth book, but at this stage I can't figure out who it would be about. Not that it matters to me who it's about because I'm sure I'll be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2015
Under the spotlight Kate Willoughby 4* out do 14th and available for preorder now!!
Well the girls all know that when it comes to a sports romance I am there with bells on, and for under the spotlight by Kate Willoughby I went after the book like a hockey player after his puck! This was my first ever Kate book Im hoping to read more I loved her writing style I was engaged from the first and transported into the worlds of the theatre and hockey arena.
Joe Rutherford is one of the San Diego Barracudas NHL team and he just made my heart and other parts flutter. Christine Caspary is a Broadway theatre actress determined to break into Hollywood when they meet. Christine is trying to make a young girls dreams come true of skating with her favourite hockey player Joe. Joe is a veteran hockey player and from his very first team has always been told to act as a role model and give back to the fans so when Christine contacts him he jumps at the chance. As you read the story I hope you fall in love with Joe and Christine strangely my favourite character in the book wasn't joe it Christina it was Christina's father William who we meet only a couple of times when you read it you will see exactly why.
In Under the Spotlight KW returns to her 'In the zone' series which I have now added to my TBR, it's the fourth book in the series and I loved it. It wasn't until I looked for more by KW that I realised that there were more books to be had, I always think it's hard to read books in a series as standalone but luckily this book is certainly able to be read and enjoyed as one however be prepared to add a few books to your TBR once you have read it.
Under the Spotlight (In the Zone)
by Kate Willoughby
Link: http://amzn.com/B00Z78WKOE
#abfabheather
Well the girls all know that when it comes to a sports romance I am there with bells on, and for under the spotlight by Kate Willoughby I went after the book like a hockey player after his puck! This was my first ever Kate book Im hoping to read more I loved her writing style I was engaged from the first and transported into the worlds of the theatre and hockey arena.
Joe Rutherford is one of the San Diego Barracudas NHL team and he just made my heart and other parts flutter. Christine Caspary is a Broadway theatre actress determined to break into Hollywood when they meet. Christine is trying to make a young girls dreams come true of skating with her favourite hockey player Joe. Joe is a veteran hockey player and from his very first team has always been told to act as a role model and give back to the fans so when Christine contacts him he jumps at the chance. As you read the story I hope you fall in love with Joe and Christine strangely my favourite character in the book wasn't joe it Christina it was Christina's father William who we meet only a couple of times when you read it you will see exactly why.
In Under the Spotlight KW returns to her 'In the zone' series which I have now added to my TBR, it's the fourth book in the series and I loved it. It wasn't until I looked for more by KW that I realised that there were more books to be had, I always think it's hard to read books in a series as standalone but luckily this book is certainly able to be read and enjoyed as one however be prepared to add a few books to your TBR once you have read it.
Under the Spotlight (In the Zone)
by Kate Willoughby
Link: http://amzn.com/B00Z78WKOE
#abfabheather
January 7, 2016
An ARC was provided by Netgalley for an honest review!
4-4.25 stars!!
This was a very refreshing and funny book Kate does a great job writing this story that sucked me in from page 1 to the end.
Christine is in the theatre business and loves to act. I really loved her character! She had sass, humor, a great personality, good family and friends. She's possible one of my favorite Female heroines ever written about.
Then there's BJ (read the book, you'll understand). He's a hockey player for the Barracuda's and he's coming up to his retirement and absolutely hates it because he loves hockey with the passion. Along with the team! They're his family.
The two together is like a power couple because they had everything. They had banter (which was hilarious), good looks, they were able to have fun together and be friends as well as a couple.
I laughed a lot throughout the book. I will say that it's hard to get humor in because because sometimes it feels like it's forced and that makes it worse but not in this book. The banter actually worked really well.
“Where can I get myself one then? Amazon maybe. I can probably get a baby on Amazon.”
***
“Yeah, you know, I was going to say something about the circles under your eyes.”
“Fuck you, Fordy. Wait, where are my sunglasses? The shine off your bald spot is blinding me.”
The writing was great and I loved the characters! It was nice to see some old faces along with some new ones. I can't wait to see what else Kate has planned in the future (hopefully more books in these series!!)
4-4.25 stars!!
This was a very refreshing and funny book Kate does a great job writing this story that sucked me in from page 1 to the end.
Christine is in the theatre business and loves to act. I really loved her character! She had sass, humor, a great personality, good family and friends. She's possible one of my favorite Female heroines ever written about.
Then there's BJ (read the book, you'll understand). He's a hockey player for the Barracuda's and he's coming up to his retirement and absolutely hates it because he loves hockey with the passion. Along with the team! They're his family.
The two together is like a power couple because they had everything. They had banter (which was hilarious), good looks, they were able to have fun together and be friends as well as a couple.
I laughed a lot throughout the book. I will say that it's hard to get humor in because because sometimes it feels like it's forced and that makes it worse but not in this book. The banter actually worked really well.
“Where can I get myself one then? Amazon maybe. I can probably get a baby on Amazon.”
***
“Yeah, you know, I was going to say something about the circles under your eyes.”
“Fuck you, Fordy. Wait, where are my sunglasses? The shine off your bald spot is blinding me.”
The writing was great and I loved the characters! It was nice to see some old faces along with some new ones. I can't wait to see what else Kate has planned in the future (hopefully more books in these series!!)
April 17, 2016
Thoughts: Ever since I picked up and started Toni Aleo’s Assassins series, I just can’t get enough of hockey in my romances. Ms. Aleo has set a high standard however, and I have to admit to reading quite a few duds on my way to finding another great hockey book and/or series. I have to say, that this one has impressed me and – by far – has come the closest to Ms. Aleo’s high standards.
I really enjoyed this book – it had a great cast of characters. I really loved both Christine and Joe and they were just perfect for each other, however there was a nice group of side characters that really appeal and add to the book itself (not to mention adding more individuals for future books within the series!) I have to admit that what really appealed to me (aside from the hockey) was the almost classic style of romance that just seemed to exist here. Sure, it has a few sexy, steamy scenes, but the overall feel of it was just a really great classic romance appeal that seems to largely be missing from a lot of the romances these days. While I like a lot, A LOT of new titles, I also crave the classic appeal that existed years ago. This book recaptured some of that for me, and I am utterly thankful to have come across such a great read.
Not to mention the sexy hockey players…;)
Rate: A-/B+
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
I really enjoyed this book – it had a great cast of characters. I really loved both Christine and Joe and they were just perfect for each other, however there was a nice group of side characters that really appeal and add to the book itself (not to mention adding more individuals for future books within the series!) I have to admit that what really appealed to me (aside from the hockey) was the almost classic style of romance that just seemed to exist here. Sure, it has a few sexy, steamy scenes, but the overall feel of it was just a really great classic romance appeal that seems to largely be missing from a lot of the romances these days. While I like a lot, A LOT of new titles, I also crave the classic appeal that existed years ago. This book recaptured some of that for me, and I am utterly thankful to have come across such a great read.
Not to mention the sexy hockey players…;)
Rate: A-/B+
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
December 4, 2015
Considering how much I enjoyed the previous books in this series, I was worried this wouldn't live up to its predecessors, especially with the acting aspect of which I actually know things (note: I knew very little of hockey before these books). Kate Willoughby definitely did not disappoint. I love that this story focused on a veteran of a sport, one most likely on his way out, and one who had to welcome in the new generation.
While there were some theatre aspects that made me tilt my head, I found they were fine to brush aside (and non-theatre addicts probably wouldn't even bat an eye at what I noticed) and did not distract from the full story. Christine is a great female character - I found her to be very aware of herself but not conceited, still naive in ways without being TSTL (THANK GOD).
The push and pull between these two are great. I especially loved the opposition between their two careers - it was a good catalyst for tension without feeling cliche. As always, favorite characters reappear at times, but always just as secondary characters who help bolster the main pairing.
Great romance and a fast/fun read. May be my favorite of the bunch, though the acting part may have made me a little biased!
While there were some theatre aspects that made me tilt my head, I found they were fine to brush aside (and non-theatre addicts probably wouldn't even bat an eye at what I noticed) and did not distract from the full story. Christine is a great female character - I found her to be very aware of herself but not conceited, still naive in ways without being TSTL (THANK GOD).
The push and pull between these two are great. I especially loved the opposition between their two careers - it was a good catalyst for tension without feeling cliche. As always, favorite characters reappear at times, but always just as secondary characters who help bolster the main pairing.
Great romance and a fast/fun read. May be my favorite of the bunch, though the acting part may have made me a little biased!
January 16, 2016
A great hockey romance story. Joe Rutherford is a great player, but he could be classed as a veteran on the team as he's into his thirties now and the clock is ticking. There's a lot of great young guys coming up in the ranks, and it gets him thinking. When his coach asks him to mentor a rookie, he wants to back out, but coach says the kid needs guidance and who better than a great team player. Joe say's he'll give him a shot.
While coping with a young up and coming hockey star, Joe starts seeing a actress he met after a Broadway Show he saw. Christine is a very loving and giving woman, when her career starts to blossom and Joe's feels his is on the way down and jealousy rears it ugly head, she still stands by him with encouragement and helps him though it.
The only problem I have with the plot is macho hockey players going to watch the Broadway musical 'Chicago'. I liked the main characters though, lots of chemistry between them, and I loved the bantering between the players. Great.
While coping with a young up and coming hockey star, Joe starts seeing a actress he met after a Broadway Show he saw. Christine is a very loving and giving woman, when her career starts to blossom and Joe's feels his is on the way down and jealousy rears it ugly head, she still stands by him with encouragement and helps him though it.
The only problem I have with the plot is macho hockey players going to watch the Broadway musical 'Chicago'. I liked the main characters though, lots of chemistry between them, and I loved the bantering between the players. Great.
January 5, 2016
Kindly provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.......
5 "Hocky Hunks with Hearts " Stars from me !!
This is Joe and Christine's story and I loved the idea of two famous leads falling in love. Normally the way most story lines go is one of our leads is some sort of supa star (either fame due to athletic capability, rock star status or being the towns most sort after property).......with me so far. Well in Kate's book Joe is one smokin' hot gorgeous hunk of Hockey supa star and Christine is an aspiring actress.
It was heartwarming how these two meet but I enjoyed every minute of their romance. This book is not your atypical hearts and flowers with a little fall out in between. There are floods of emotions and plenty of life altering decisions needing making !!!
This is book 4 in the series but could also be read as a standalone !!!!
This is definitely one to be read if you love hockey star romances that nudge into the realm of AWESOME !!!
Well done Kate and many thanks for this opportunity x
Later peeps xx
5 "Hocky Hunks with Hearts " Stars from me !!
This is Joe and Christine's story and I loved the idea of two famous leads falling in love. Normally the way most story lines go is one of our leads is some sort of supa star (either fame due to athletic capability, rock star status or being the towns most sort after property).......with me so far. Well in Kate's book Joe is one smokin' hot gorgeous hunk of Hockey supa star and Christine is an aspiring actress.
It was heartwarming how these two meet but I enjoyed every minute of their romance. This book is not your atypical hearts and flowers with a little fall out in between. There are floods of emotions and plenty of life altering decisions needing making !!!
This is book 4 in the series but could also be read as a standalone !!!!
This is definitely one to be read if you love hockey star romances that nudge into the realm of AWESOME !!!
Well done Kate and many thanks for this opportunity x
Later peeps xx
November 25, 2015
This is a solid romance. If you love hockey, this is definitely a must read for you.
Joe is a great guy. He's a bit of a man's man, but he also really likes the theater and doesn't feel like less of a man because of it. As an NHL player he's a jock, of course, but thankfully not a jerk. Christine is an actress, theatre mostly, but she's up for a big TV role opposite her sexy ex. This creates some interesting tension in the story, but nothing over the top.
As a whole, Under the Spotlight didn't blow me away, but it's a nice, reliable read. In it you'll find an authentic hockey romance with some very steamy sex scenes and good character dialogue. If you're looking for a solid contemporary romance to help pass an afternoon, this is a good choice.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Joe is a great guy. He's a bit of a man's man, but he also really likes the theater and doesn't feel like less of a man because of it. As an NHL player he's a jock, of course, but thankfully not a jerk. Christine is an actress, theatre mostly, but she's up for a big TV role opposite her sexy ex. This creates some interesting tension in the story, but nothing over the top.
As a whole, Under the Spotlight didn't blow me away, but it's a nice, reliable read. In it you'll find an authentic hockey romance with some very steamy sex scenes and good character dialogue. If you're looking for a solid contemporary romance to help pass an afternoon, this is a good choice.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 14, 2015
4.5 stars
Wow! Kate Willoughby is fast moving from an author I've never heard of to a real fave.
Joe is a pretty typical male hero (and sweet with it) and he's facing some challenges when he meets his lady. She's about to be a lot more famous than him not to mention getting cosy with her co-star!!!!!
This is book 4 in quite a fast paced series. This latest instalment is sexy, cute, funny, realistic and so very relevant. This is a couple who are mad for each other but have real career issues that need to be worked through. None of its easy. How does an alpha man take a back seat? And should his girl need or want him to?
I just loved it. A different take amusing and thought provoking. And of course a hockey god!
Wow! Kate Willoughby is fast moving from an author I've never heard of to a real fave.
Joe is a pretty typical male hero (and sweet with it) and he's facing some challenges when he meets his lady. She's about to be a lot more famous than him not to mention getting cosy with her co-star!!!!!
This is book 4 in quite a fast paced series. This latest instalment is sexy, cute, funny, realistic and so very relevant. This is a couple who are mad for each other but have real career issues that need to be worked through. None of its easy. How does an alpha man take a back seat? And should his girl need or want him to?
I just loved it. A different take amusing and thought provoking. And of course a hockey god!
January 19, 2016
4.5* I loved this story, it was sweet, sexy, fun, with little angst and two really likable main characters in Joe and Christine. Plus some old characters and new ones which make me excited for more stories in the future. Not to mention Lexie, who for me completely stole any chapter she was in.
You can also really tell when reading this series that the author Kate Willoughby is a huge hockey fan, and the moments when the team are on the ice or practicing are very descriptive yet not at all confusing, and the epilogue felt almost magical and so realistic that I felt like I was witnessing it for myself.
I really believe this series has just got better and better, and is definitely worth reading, especially if like me your a fan of Toni Aleo's Assassin's and Bellevue Bullies series.
You can also really tell when reading this series that the author Kate Willoughby is a huge hockey fan, and the moments when the team are on the ice or practicing are very descriptive yet not at all confusing, and the epilogue felt almost magical and so realistic that I felt like I was witnessing it for myself.
I really believe this series has just got better and better, and is definitely worth reading, especially if like me your a fan of Toni Aleo's Assassin's and Bellevue Bullies series.
December 16, 2015
Great Book!
This is a great book; this is the fourth book in the In The Zone series by Kate Willoughby. Christine Caspary is a stage actress and has never interested in hockey that is until she sees one of the Barracudas sexy player Joe Rutherford. When her work with the Grant A Wish programs offers her a chance to meet him she jumps at the chance. Joe has liked Christine since the first time he saw her perform on stage. They were not expecting the chemistry so hot it is off the charts. If you are looking for a hot romance then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great book; this is the fourth book in the In The Zone series by Kate Willoughby. Christine Caspary is a stage actress and has never interested in hockey that is until she sees one of the Barracudas sexy player Joe Rutherford. When her work with the Grant A Wish programs offers her a chance to meet him she jumps at the chance. Joe has liked Christine since the first time he saw her perform on stage. They were not expecting the chemistry so hot it is off the charts. If you are looking for a hot romance then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
November 30, 2015
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
I LOVE a good hockey romance. Hockey players.... what is not to like. That said something was missing in this one for me. I liked Joe and thought he was a solid guy but he didn't rock my world as a reader. Dare I say he was a little boring? Christine, the h, while not a too stupid to live h, wasn't a favorite. As I'm typing I keep thinking she annoyed me for some reason. I started feeling meh about the two of them together. I'd be willing to try another KW book but this one didn't work for me.
I LOVE a good hockey romance. Hockey players.... what is not to like. That said something was missing in this one for me. I liked Joe and thought he was a solid guy but he didn't rock my world as a reader. Dare I say he was a little boring? Christine, the h, while not a too stupid to live h, wasn't a favorite. As I'm typing I keep thinking she annoyed me for some reason. I started feeling meh about the two of them together. I'd be willing to try another KW book but this one didn't work for me.
December 13, 2015
3.5
Under the spotlight was cute! I liked that Christine's star was rising while Joes was fading. I loved that what brought them together was a sick child. Both characters were instantly likable and I was glad this wasn't another sports book with a manwhore hero. The plot was a bit predictable but it wasn't poorly written. Under the Spotlight is another solid sports romance for readers who love this rising genre!
Will be on blog 12/14/15 The Book Disciple
POV: 3rd
Heat: 3
Trope: Hockey Star, Superstar
Trigger: no
Cliffhanger: no
Under the spotlight was cute! I liked that Christine's star was rising while Joes was fading. I loved that what brought them together was a sick child. Both characters were instantly likable and I was glad this wasn't another sports book with a manwhore hero. The plot was a bit predictable but it wasn't poorly written. Under the Spotlight is another solid sports romance for readers who love this rising genre!
Will be on blog 12/14/15 The Book Disciple
POV: 3rd
Heat: 3
Trope: Hockey Star, Superstar
Trigger: no
Cliffhanger: no
October 28, 2015
Christine is an actress she is going to make it big soon while Joe is a hockey player that is almost going to retire soon as he is getting older. Christine and Jo are cute together but you can see how when Christine is going up for her star Jo could get jealous because he wont have that no more. This book to me is showing that you should support the person you love the best way you can a good read!!
January 17, 2016
Christine was an actress hoping to break into the big time. Joe Rutherford played hockey for the San Diego Barracudas. Christine wanted to ask Joe a favor even though she thought they had never met.
It seemed to be so realistic, I could understand the different scenarios and emotions going through the characters and the ins and outs of this story. The characters were great as was the plot and overall story. I highly recommend.
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review
It seemed to be so realistic, I could understand the different scenarios and emotions going through the characters and the ins and outs of this story. The characters were great as was the plot and overall story. I highly recommend.
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review
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