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Risky Business #2
Once Upon a Power Play
A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...
He'll do whatever it takes to get her against the boards…
Sidelined by a potentially career-ending injury, the only thing hockey player Ryan Douglas should be thinking about is recovery. But after sharing a near death experience and a night of passion with a spunky brunette, the only thing on his mind is five and a half feet of sexy sarcasm. And he'll do whatever it takes to get her back in his bed--even if it means playing dirty.
Chloe Jacobs is done with fairytales. And men. She's kissed her share of frogs and what's it gotten her? Dumped by text--again. Determined to eighty-six illusions of romance and prove she's more than just a good-time girl, the last thing she needs is a pushy, arrogant hockey player testing her resolve. Especially one who's sinfully good with his hands and thinks date-by-blackmail is a perfectly acceptable social convention.
Ryan wants to play games? Fine by her, but this is one faceoff he's going to lose.
206 pages, ebook
First published November 16, 2015
88 people are currently reading
1272 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bonds
20 books574 followersJennifer Bonds is the USA Today bestselling author of sizzling contemporary romance with sassy heroines, sexy alphas, and a whole lot of mischief. She’s a sucker for enemies-to-lovers stories, laugh-out-loud banter, and over-the-top grand gestures. Jennifer lives in Pennsylvania, where her overactive imagination and weakness for reality TV keep life interesting. She's lucky enough to live with her own real-life hero, two adorable (and sometimes crazy) children, and one rambunctious K9. Loves Buffy, Mexican food, a solid Netflix binge, the Winchester brothers, cupcakes, and all things zombie. Sings off-key.
You can also connect with Jen @jbondswrites
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You can also connect with Jen @jbondswrites
https://www.tiktok.com/jbondswrites
https://www.instagram.com/jbondswrites
http://www.facebook.com/jbondswrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
December 10, 2015
3 - 3.5 Stars!!
Like any other book from Brazen, “Once Upon a Power Play” was a light, sexy, fun, easy to read novel with just a little bit of angst and drama.
Chloe Jacobs seems to attract only losers. After being stood-up on a date night by text she decides she’s done with men. All she wants now is some booze, but she needs some lemons for her margaritas. Her day gets worse when some kid decides to rob the grocery store. There she meets Ryan Douglas, an arrogant gorgeous prick who steals her lemon, but who fortunately saves the day. Always the perfect gentleman, Ryan offers to walk her home and eventually Chloe agrees. She thinks she’d been too hasty in swearing off men, because Ryan is looking pretty damn fine so she invites him in. After spending the night together, Chloe didn’t expect to meet Ryan again. Apparently she’s the only one in New York City who doesn’t know Ryan is a NHL star.
These two meet again when Chloe is assigned to work on the publicity for a children’s charity. Ryan decides she wants more of Chloe and he’s willing to do anything to get her on her back screaming his name. One steamy night leads to another and soon this ‘thing’ between them becomes something more, but in order to stay together they will have to learn to properly communicate and trust each other.
This was a sweet, sexy read and overall I enjoyed it. Both Chloe and Ryan were likeable characters and I enjoyed the sweet banter between them. Chloe was feisty, easy to like, relatable and overall an entertaining heroine. Ryan was sweet and considerate and I really liked the way he was with Chloe. He was strong, determinate, kind and hard-working. Chloe and Ryan’s chemistry was well done, palpable and the sexy scenes between them were pretty hot. I liked the pace of the story and how everything unfolded between these two characters.
What I didn’t like was how predictable the story was. Also, at times the cheesiness was a little too much for me.
Overall, a fun and sexy enjoyable read!
Like any other book from Brazen, “Once Upon a Power Play” was a light, sexy, fun, easy to read novel with just a little bit of angst and drama.
Chloe Jacobs seems to attract only losers. After being stood-up on a date night by text she decides she’s done with men. All she wants now is some booze, but she needs some lemons for her margaritas. Her day gets worse when some kid decides to rob the grocery store. There she meets Ryan Douglas, an arrogant gorgeous prick who steals her lemon, but who fortunately saves the day. Always the perfect gentleman, Ryan offers to walk her home and eventually Chloe agrees. She thinks she’d been too hasty in swearing off men, because Ryan is looking pretty damn fine so she invites him in. After spending the night together, Chloe didn’t expect to meet Ryan again. Apparently she’s the only one in New York City who doesn’t know Ryan is a NHL star.
These two meet again when Chloe is assigned to work on the publicity for a children’s charity. Ryan decides she wants more of Chloe and he’s willing to do anything to get her on her back screaming his name. One steamy night leads to another and soon this ‘thing’ between them becomes something more, but in order to stay together they will have to learn to properly communicate and trust each other.
This was a sweet, sexy read and overall I enjoyed it. Both Chloe and Ryan were likeable characters and I enjoyed the sweet banter between them. Chloe was feisty, easy to like, relatable and overall an entertaining heroine. Ryan was sweet and considerate and I really liked the way he was with Chloe. He was strong, determinate, kind and hard-working. Chloe and Ryan’s chemistry was well done, palpable and the sexy scenes between them were pretty hot. I liked the pace of the story and how everything unfolded between these two characters.
What I didn’t like was how predictable the story was. Also, at times the cheesiness was a little too much for me.
Overall, a fun and sexy enjoyable read!
November 21, 2015
3.75 Stars
I'll keep this short and sweet. I really enjoyed Once Upon a Powerplay. I liked it even better than the first book in the series. In true Jennifer Bonds fashion, it was uber sexy while still having a fantastic story. However, I'm simply at a point where I'm just burned out on category romances and they're all starting to blend in together. So I truly can't review this fairly because while I enjoyed the story, it just didn't grab me as it could have at a different point.
The book was fabulous and I highly recommend it to any Brazen junky. This girl just needs a little break from category romance for a bit to get my groove back.
I'll keep this short and sweet. I really enjoyed Once Upon a Powerplay. I liked it even better than the first book in the series. In true Jennifer Bonds fashion, it was uber sexy while still having a fantastic story. However, I'm simply at a point where I'm just burned out on category romances and they're all starting to blend in together. So I truly can't review this fairly because while I enjoyed the story, it just didn't grab me as it could have at a different point.
The book was fabulous and I highly recommend it to any Brazen junky. This girl just needs a little break from category romance for a bit to get my groove back.
November 19, 2015
4 - "I'll bring the shoes, you bring the condom." Stars!
Jennifer Bonds really stepped up to the hockey net with Once Upon a Power Play. I really enjoyed the push and pull between Ryan and Chloe, and their sexy-times were extremely diverse and plentiful.
"Dead men don't need limes."
This is probably the first Brazen title I have read in a long time that didn’t figure in some sort of over the top familial drama, and it was such a nice break. This book literally for the most part just focuses on the two of them, together, getting down and dirty, whilst working through their own commitment issues.
The secondary tropes enhanced, and didn’t get in the way of this, and it was just a really easy book to get into, get lost in and get read without being distracted. Chloe’s expected wobble towards the end and the reasonings for it were pretty easy to see coming from a mile off, but I really didn’t mind as again it wasn’t overblown and worked well with the overall story-telling.
"Pictures don't lie."
Stand out Secondary character for me was Bash (no last name given), one of Ryan's team-mates, I loved that he called Chloe out on her shit and the fact that she believed others before even speaking to Ryan about things, and I hope that the author has a story lined up for him at some point in the future.
"I have to be honest, I was pulling for you. You’re good for Ryan. I’ve never seen him that happy before, but if one bullshit article in the tabloids is all it takes for you to cut and run, maybe it’s best you part ways now because you don’t deserve him.”
It was an evening well spent, getting to know this couple, and I look forward to seeing where the author takes the Risky Business series next.
ARC generously provided via Entangled, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Jennifer Bonds really stepped up to the hockey net with Once Upon a Power Play. I really enjoyed the push and pull between Ryan and Chloe, and their sexy-times were extremely diverse and plentiful.
"Dead men don't need limes."
This is probably the first Brazen title I have read in a long time that didn’t figure in some sort of over the top familial drama, and it was such a nice break. This book literally for the most part just focuses on the two of them, together, getting down and dirty, whilst working through their own commitment issues.
The secondary tropes enhanced, and didn’t get in the way of this, and it was just a really easy book to get into, get lost in and get read without being distracted. Chloe’s expected wobble towards the end and the reasonings for it were pretty easy to see coming from a mile off, but I really didn’t mind as again it wasn’t overblown and worked well with the overall story-telling.
"Pictures don't lie."
Stand out Secondary character for me was Bash (no last name given), one of Ryan's team-mates, I loved that he called Chloe out on her shit and the fact that she believed others before even speaking to Ryan about things, and I hope that the author has a story lined up for him at some point in the future.
"I have to be honest, I was pulling for you. You’re good for Ryan. I’ve never seen him that happy before, but if one bullshit article in the tabloids is all it takes for you to cut and run, maybe it’s best you part ways now because you don’t deserve him.”
It was an evening well spent, getting to know this couple, and I look forward to seeing where the author takes the Risky Business series next.
ARC generously provided via Entangled, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
November 6, 2015
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First time reading a book by this author and I’m entirely pleased with Once Upon A Power Play by Jennifer Bonds!
As always when I pick a Brazen title, I expect to read a light, fun and sexy romance story and this title completely filled the bill and then some. Predictable? Yes, but very satisfying!
After being stood-up on a date night by text and after a streak of bad luck dating the wrong men, Chloe Jacobs swore off the male gender altogether and goes on a mission to make herself a solo girl night IN party… at home, yes. Margaritas and ice cream are on the menu but there isn’t a single lime in her house.
She meets Ryan Douglas in a grocery store, gorgeous male specimen becoming instantly her nemesis. He stole the last lime of the store, right under her nose, the bastard!
Ensues an hilarious bantering session, Chloe deciding this arrogant lumberjack—hey, he was wearing a flannel shirt— is the proof she was right giving up on men.
An unexpected robbery later, Chloe agrees against her good will to be walked home by the lime thief.
Her resolutions on men all forgotten she invites Ryan in and lightning sparks!
That’s how the book starts. And I must say sister spirit prevailing, I was immediately pulled in the book and cheering up for the heroine. The easy banter and chemistry between the characters was palpable and kept me reading until the book was already over! I thoroughly enjoyed the Chloe’s POV, she was a little crazy, a lot feisty, just how I like my heroines to be.
Ryan was a great male character, he’s recovering from a bad break up and physical sport injury and is just about getting on the ice again. He’s the Captain of the New York Rangers Team. Yes, we’re talking Hockey, ladies. He had quite the filthy mouth attached to him and I truly enjoyed reading him.
I’m not going to run a point by point resume of Once Upon a Power Play, but I will tell you this, if you are looking for a few hours of fun, like your heroines fierce and with spunk, if you’re craving steamy hot scenes and playful bantering session and are not against gorgeous hockey players, then you know what to do! Pick this one already!
Once Upon A Power Play is part of the Risky Business series and can be read as standalone.
Arc offered in exchange for an honest review.
More reviews and book talk at :
First time reading a book by this author and I’m entirely pleased with Once Upon A Power Play by Jennifer Bonds!
As always when I pick a Brazen title, I expect to read a light, fun and sexy romance story and this title completely filled the bill and then some. Predictable? Yes, but very satisfying!
After being stood-up on a date night by text and after a streak of bad luck dating the wrong men, Chloe Jacobs swore off the male gender altogether and goes on a mission to make herself a solo girl night IN party… at home, yes. Margaritas and ice cream are on the menu but there isn’t a single lime in her house.
She meets Ryan Douglas in a grocery store, gorgeous male specimen becoming instantly her nemesis. He stole the last lime of the store, right under her nose, the bastard!
Ensues an hilarious bantering session, Chloe deciding this arrogant lumberjack—hey, he was wearing a flannel shirt— is the proof she was right giving up on men.
An unexpected robbery later, Chloe agrees against her good will to be walked home by the lime thief.
Her resolutions on men all forgotten she invites Ryan in and lightning sparks!
That’s how the book starts. And I must say sister spirit prevailing, I was immediately pulled in the book and cheering up for the heroine. The easy banter and chemistry between the characters was palpable and kept me reading until the book was already over! I thoroughly enjoyed the Chloe’s POV, she was a little crazy, a lot feisty, just how I like my heroines to be.
I’m taking a spin on the North Pole.
I need it. And I deserve it. I don’t care if I end up on the naughty list.
Ryan was a great male character, he’s recovering from a bad break up and physical sport injury and is just about getting on the ice again. He’s the Captain of the New York Rangers Team. Yes, we’re talking Hockey, ladies. He had quite the filthy mouth attached to him and I truly enjoyed reading him.
Right now you want me to fuck you so dirty the only thing you will be able to think of—the only thing you will care about— will be your next orgasm. The first of many I’m going to give you tonight.
I’m not going to run a point by point resume of Once Upon a Power Play, but I will tell you this, if you are looking for a few hours of fun, like your heroines fierce and with spunk, if you’re craving steamy hot scenes and playful bantering session and are not against gorgeous hockey players, then you know what to do! Pick this one already!
Once Upon A Power Play is part of the Risky Business series and can be read as standalone.
Arc offered in exchange for an honest review.
More reviews and book talk at :
November 16, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
"In all her life she'd never experienced anything like it. Was it possible love had actually found her when she'd finally stopped looking?"
I adored and loved Once Upon A Power Play by Jennifer Bonds. Being a Brazen book addict, this book had every element that I craved, wanted, needed and looked for. It had heat, romance, banter, playfulness, and of course lots and lots of steam.
In a case of wrong place and wrong time, two unlikely strangers find themselves being held up in a robbery in progress. When Ryan Douglas decides to try to disarm the assailant, he didn't expect an unlikely heroine to knock out the robber with her handbag. Chloe Jacobs doesn't like being told to stay back and so when she decided to help out Ryan, she just made her move. So when Ryan decides to walk Chloe back to her apartment that night after having a shitty day, he didn't expect for one hot sexy passionate one night stand. Well call it fate or coincidence but when Chloe is assigned to work on the publicity for a children's charity, she didn't expect her one night stand to be an NHL Hockey Captain for the NY Rangers. With sexual attraction buzzing around them, Ryan makes his play and decides that he want's more of Chloe.
Ryan and Chloe soon finds themselves in a whirlwind love affair. Lots of hot sex takes places between these two off and on the ice. Being that Ryan is a professional athlete, the paparazzi tends to stalk him wanting to know who he is dating and when he will back on the ice after his injury. So when a paparazzi catches a pic of Ryan with an ex, will Chloe be able to have faith in Ryan? Will Chloe's fairy tale ending come to abrupt ending? Or will Ryan make Chloe see that their happily ever story is just beginning?
Once Upon A Power Play was an all-around fun, sexy, and romantic read. It definitely had me inhaling this book in one sitting. Ryan and Chloe's chemistry and attraction was so palpable and tangible that you couldn't help but be immersed into their relationship as they navigate and made all the right moves. So if you are looking for a fun sexy sports romance where Ryan's skate blade is not the only thing made of steel then I highly suggest you pick up this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Jennifer Bonds
"In all her life she'd never experienced anything like it. Was it possible love had actually found her when she'd finally stopped looking?"
I adored and loved Once Upon A Power Play by Jennifer Bonds. Being a Brazen book addict, this book had every element that I craved, wanted, needed and looked for. It had heat, romance, banter, playfulness, and of course lots and lots of steam.
In a case of wrong place and wrong time, two unlikely strangers find themselves being held up in a robbery in progress. When Ryan Douglas decides to try to disarm the assailant, he didn't expect an unlikely heroine to knock out the robber with her handbag. Chloe Jacobs doesn't like being told to stay back and so when she decided to help out Ryan, she just made her move. So when Ryan decides to walk Chloe back to her apartment that night after having a shitty day, he didn't expect for one hot sexy passionate one night stand. Well call it fate or coincidence but when Chloe is assigned to work on the publicity for a children's charity, she didn't expect her one night stand to be an NHL Hockey Captain for the NY Rangers. With sexual attraction buzzing around them, Ryan makes his play and decides that he want's more of Chloe.
Ryan and Chloe soon finds themselves in a whirlwind love affair. Lots of hot sex takes places between these two off and on the ice. Being that Ryan is a professional athlete, the paparazzi tends to stalk him wanting to know who he is dating and when he will back on the ice after his injury. So when a paparazzi catches a pic of Ryan with an ex, will Chloe be able to have faith in Ryan? Will Chloe's fairy tale ending come to abrupt ending? Or will Ryan make Chloe see that their happily ever story is just beginning?
Once Upon A Power Play was an all-around fun, sexy, and romantic read. It definitely had me inhaling this book in one sitting. Ryan and Chloe's chemistry and attraction was so palpable and tangible that you couldn't help but be immersed into their relationship as they navigate and made all the right moves. So if you are looking for a fun sexy sports romance where Ryan's skate blade is not the only thing made of steel then I highly suggest you pick up this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Jennifer Bonds
November 13, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Once Upon a Power Play by Jennifer Bonds
Book Two of the Risky Business series
Publisher: Brazen
Publication Date: November 16, 2015
Rating: 5 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
He'll do whatever it takes to get her against the boards…
Sidelined by a potentially career-ending injury, the only thing hockey player Ryan Douglas should be thinking about is recovery. But after sharing a near death experience and a night of passion with a spunky brunette, the only thing on his mind is five and a half feet of sexy sarcasm. And he'll do whatever it takes to get her back in his bed--even if it means playing dirty.
Chloe Jacobs is done with fairytales. And men. She's kissed her share of frogs and what's it gotten her? Dumped by text--again. Determined to eighty-six illusions of romance and prove she's more than just a good-time girl, the last thing she needs is a pushy, arrogant hockey player testing her resolve. Especially one who's sinfully good with his hands and thinks date-by-blackmail is a perfectly acceptable social convention.
Ryan wants to play games? Fine by her, but this is one faceoff he's going to lose.
What I Liked:
The first book in this series, Once Upon a Dare, probably wouldn't have appealed to me, based on the synopsis. I've not read the book, but I read the synopsis, and it sounds like something I've seen before several times. THIS BOOK THOUGH. Sports romance? From Brazen? Yes, please. I am a huge sports fan - especially when it comes to hockey. Hockey players make for great male protagonists!
When Chloe's date cancels on her, she knows she isn't going to waste the evening she spent preparing for the date - with her new gold dress and high heels. What she doesn't expect is to meet a sexy stranger at the nearby grocery store, who infuriates her and turns her on. Ryan is a professional hockey player, and a good one, despite his months of recovery from an injury. One steamy night leads to another which leads to another; Ryan wants to settle, but will Chloe put aside her past experiences with men and give Ryan a chance?
RYAN DOUGLAS. Get ready to fan yourselves, ladies. Ryan is sexy and swoony and steamy and clever. He absolutely loves his job, the sport, and it's his life. He also enjoys bickering with Chloe, and he goes after her, and what he wants. I really like his alpha-male-ness, and his decisiveness. Underneath the teasing and the testosterone, he is a really good guy. Seriously. He's probably one of my favorite Brazen males.
Chloe is very, very sassy, which is hilarious. When she and Ryan meet in the grocery, she sasses him from the start, angry at him for taking the last lime. She doesn't like being saved, she doesn't like attachments, and she doesn't like how much she wants him, but who is she to deny herself something she wants? For the most part, I liked Chloe a lot.
The pair are really great together; they bicker and clash a lot, and their interactions are always hilarious or steamy. I really enjoyed the romance, outside of the chemistry. The two have serious combustible chemistry, but they also have a great connection. It takes Chloe a bit to really see that she is happy with Ryan. But they are hot together and sweet together!
Like I said before, I loved the sports aspect of this book. I'm a huge sports fan, and I love hockey, so I was really pleased when so much of this book revolved around hockey. Ryan is a professional hockey player (hello, giant hot male!), and Chloe is working in the advertising of the hockey rink/stadium. Hockey is definitely a sport that should be featured in more romances, because the males are some of the hottest (beard or no beard)!
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. It's definitely a Brazen favorite, which is a pretty elusive spot for me (since I read so many Brazen novels, and I usually enjoy them).
What I Did Not Like:
The ending is VERY happy, but I wished for a little more initiative from Chloe. That's all I'll say - I just wish it was less one-sided, things in the end. Ryan is SUCH a good guy! Chloe... well, she needed to work for the relationship like Ryan did. If you catch my drift. Anyway, I liked the ending, despite this one-sided-ness.
Would I Recommend It:
I soooo recommend this Brazen novel, if you're a fan of Brazen novels. Even if you're not, if you like adult contemporary romance, or adult romance in general, I recommend this one. It's a fast read despite its somewhat denseness in emotional content. This will be a go-to Brazen recommendation in the future!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded up to 5 stars (you don't see this from me every day). I almost want to read the first book now (we do see the starring couple in this book several times), and I will definitely be looking out for future books in this series!
Once Upon a Power Play by Jennifer Bonds
Book Two of the Risky Business series
Publisher: Brazen
Publication Date: November 16, 2015
Rating: 5 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
He'll do whatever it takes to get her against the boards…
Sidelined by a potentially career-ending injury, the only thing hockey player Ryan Douglas should be thinking about is recovery. But after sharing a near death experience and a night of passion with a spunky brunette, the only thing on his mind is five and a half feet of sexy sarcasm. And he'll do whatever it takes to get her back in his bed--even if it means playing dirty.
Chloe Jacobs is done with fairytales. And men. She's kissed her share of frogs and what's it gotten her? Dumped by text--again. Determined to eighty-six illusions of romance and prove she's more than just a good-time girl, the last thing she needs is a pushy, arrogant hockey player testing her resolve. Especially one who's sinfully good with his hands and thinks date-by-blackmail is a perfectly acceptable social convention.
Ryan wants to play games? Fine by her, but this is one faceoff he's going to lose.
What I Liked:
The first book in this series, Once Upon a Dare, probably wouldn't have appealed to me, based on the synopsis. I've not read the book, but I read the synopsis, and it sounds like something I've seen before several times. THIS BOOK THOUGH. Sports romance? From Brazen? Yes, please. I am a huge sports fan - especially when it comes to hockey. Hockey players make for great male protagonists!
When Chloe's date cancels on her, she knows she isn't going to waste the evening she spent preparing for the date - with her new gold dress and high heels. What she doesn't expect is to meet a sexy stranger at the nearby grocery store, who infuriates her and turns her on. Ryan is a professional hockey player, and a good one, despite his months of recovery from an injury. One steamy night leads to another which leads to another; Ryan wants to settle, but will Chloe put aside her past experiences with men and give Ryan a chance?
RYAN DOUGLAS. Get ready to fan yourselves, ladies. Ryan is sexy and swoony and steamy and clever. He absolutely loves his job, the sport, and it's his life. He also enjoys bickering with Chloe, and he goes after her, and what he wants. I really like his alpha-male-ness, and his decisiveness. Underneath the teasing and the testosterone, he is a really good guy. Seriously. He's probably one of my favorite Brazen males.
Chloe is very, very sassy, which is hilarious. When she and Ryan meet in the grocery, she sasses him from the start, angry at him for taking the last lime. She doesn't like being saved, she doesn't like attachments, and she doesn't like how much she wants him, but who is she to deny herself something she wants? For the most part, I liked Chloe a lot.
The pair are really great together; they bicker and clash a lot, and their interactions are always hilarious or steamy. I really enjoyed the romance, outside of the chemistry. The two have serious combustible chemistry, but they also have a great connection. It takes Chloe a bit to really see that she is happy with Ryan. But they are hot together and sweet together!
Like I said before, I loved the sports aspect of this book. I'm a huge sports fan, and I love hockey, so I was really pleased when so much of this book revolved around hockey. Ryan is a professional hockey player (hello, giant hot male!), and Chloe is working in the advertising of the hockey rink/stadium. Hockey is definitely a sport that should be featured in more romances, because the males are some of the hottest (beard or no beard)!
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. It's definitely a Brazen favorite, which is a pretty elusive spot for me (since I read so many Brazen novels, and I usually enjoy them).
What I Did Not Like:
The ending is VERY happy, but I wished for a little more initiative from Chloe. That's all I'll say - I just wish it was less one-sided, things in the end. Ryan is SUCH a good guy! Chloe... well, she needed to work for the relationship like Ryan did. If you catch my drift. Anyway, I liked the ending, despite this one-sided-ness.
Would I Recommend It:
I soooo recommend this Brazen novel, if you're a fan of Brazen novels. Even if you're not, if you like adult contemporary romance, or adult romance in general, I recommend this one. It's a fast read despite its somewhat denseness in emotional content. This will be a go-to Brazen recommendation in the future!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded up to 5 stars (you don't see this from me every day). I almost want to read the first book now (we do see the starring couple in this book several times), and I will definitely be looking out for future books in this series!
January 26, 2020
I thought there will be some aspect of power play in this story. After I finished reading it, there is none. The story is flat. No twist or drama.
What is lacking is the imagination. In romance world, the theme of the story os repeating. However some authors manage to bring out something interesting. Character development, chemistry, banters, push and pull to make the story more interesting.
Not with this book.
2 stars
What is lacking is the imagination. In romance world, the theme of the story os repeating. However some authors manage to bring out something interesting. Character development, chemistry, banters, push and pull to make the story more interesting.
Not with this book.
2 stars
May 12, 2016
-easy read and easy on the wallet (freebie).
-Hockey romance with Ryan and Chloe meeting during a holdup, then hook up. Not your typical romantic setup,but it worked.
-Never read anything by Ms. Bonds before, but I enjoyed the mix of humor, hockey and romance.
-Ryan and Chloe’s professional lives intersect in a believable fashion and I liked that there’s a good amount of hockey in this hockey romance.
-There’s heat and they certainly have chemistry. Not a slow burn, so there’s sex but it never felt gratuitous. It’s a well paced story.
-Kind of familiar (which I don't mind) and there's nothing that jumped out at me to make this stand out.
-The only thing that didn’t quite work was Chloe’s defensiveness. She’s a bit harder-edged, especially in her distrust of Ryan’s motives. Sort of understandable, but just this side of frustrating. Ryan screws up as well, but he does the majority of the work in this relationship. Would have loved a bit more balance.
[3.5 stars]
I enjoyed it and I’d read more by this author.
For more reviews, visit
November 24, 2015
After reading Once Upon a Dare by Jennifer Bonds earlier this year I couldn't wait to see what she'd come out with next while secretly hoping for Chloe's book... And Ms. Bonds did not disappoint me in that regard. Unfortunately, while I enjoyed Once Upon a Power Play, it wasn't everything I was hoping it would be.
I generally have a hard time with any book when ex's are constantly mentioned or thought of and unfortunately I got really tired of hearing about Ryan's ex... That was strike one. Strike two was at the end after the big fight... How dare he let two weeks go by before the big grand gesture?! Granted, as far as grand gestures go, Ryan's was a good one... But still not enough to make me love this book.
Okay, mini rant over, so I guess I should tell you what this book is all about, huh?! After getting dumped via text, Chloe decides to brave a snow storm and truck it to the store to pick up some margarita fixings and that's where she meets Ryan. Ryan comes off a as a bit of a douche in the beginning but he quickly makes up for it when he plays hero when they find themselves in some unexpected danger.
There "relationship" progresses fairly quickly from there and we see some smoking hot sexy times between the two. Believe me, I had no problem feeling the lust and attraction between Ryan and Chloe, but I had a much harder time finding any connection between them other than sexual. Both were completely against making it a relationship for so much of the book and they both took so long to even admit their feelings to themselves that I had a hard time believing it when all was said and done.
That being said, Once Upon a Power Play was a fairly easy read with some smoking hot sexy times and an epilogue that I absolutely loved! And even though I didn't love it as much as I had hoped I would, I'm still really excited to see what Ms. Bonds comes up with next.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I generally have a hard time with any book when ex's are constantly mentioned or thought of and unfortunately I got really tired of hearing about Ryan's ex... That was strike one. Strike two was at the end after the big fight... How dare he let two weeks go by before the big grand gesture?! Granted, as far as grand gestures go, Ryan's was a good one... But still not enough to make me love this book.
Okay, mini rant over, so I guess I should tell you what this book is all about, huh?! After getting dumped via text, Chloe decides to brave a snow storm and truck it to the store to pick up some margarita fixings and that's where she meets Ryan. Ryan comes off a as a bit of a douche in the beginning but he quickly makes up for it when he plays hero when they find themselves in some unexpected danger.
There "relationship" progresses fairly quickly from there and we see some smoking hot sexy times between the two. Believe me, I had no problem feeling the lust and attraction between Ryan and Chloe, but I had a much harder time finding any connection between them other than sexual. Both were completely against making it a relationship for so much of the book and they both took so long to even admit their feelings to themselves that I had a hard time believing it when all was said and done.
That being said, Once Upon a Power Play was a fairly easy read with some smoking hot sexy times and an epilogue that I absolutely loved! And even though I didn't love it as much as I had hoped I would, I'm still really excited to see what Ms. Bonds comes up with next.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2015
4 hot as puck stars
Chloe Jacobs finds herself on the receiving end of a Dear Chloe text, which only a charge of margaritas will help to soothe. Diverting to the local store in the hideous weather, she aims for the limes only to be beaten to the last one by a smooth talking, lumberjack look-a-like.
Ryan Douglas is a renowned hockey player, taking an injury break. Finding himself looking for limes in a local store, he is confronted by a fiery, spitfire of a woman, who suggests she’s more than entitled to the last lime resting in his grasp. She ignites his playful side, and herein starts this couples whimsical dance.
A holdup, leads to an impromptu night of passion, where neither of them saw it continuing.
Needless to say, they find themselves standing opposite each other carrying out their daily jobs, and the joshing ramps up severely as Ryan lays on his ordered charm offensive against Chloe’s steadfast rules of life.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, ticking all the boxes for a signature Brazen contribution. It contained all the right elements in a perfect blend, with the main character’s magnetism topping the chart.
ARC gratefully received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
Chloe Jacobs finds herself on the receiving end of a Dear Chloe text, which only a charge of margaritas will help to soothe. Diverting to the local store in the hideous weather, she aims for the limes only to be beaten to the last one by a smooth talking, lumberjack look-a-like.
”Because no woman can possibly resist Eau de Lumberjack?”
Ryan Douglas is a renowned hockey player, taking an injury break. Finding himself looking for limes in a local store, he is confronted by a fiery, spitfire of a woman, who suggests she’s more than entitled to the last lime resting in his grasp. She ignites his playful side, and herein starts this couples whimsical dance.
A holdup, leads to an impromptu night of passion, where neither of them saw it continuing.
Needless to say, they find themselves standing opposite each other carrying out their daily jobs, and the joshing ramps up severely as Ryan lays on his ordered charm offensive against Chloe’s steadfast rules of life.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, ticking all the boxes for a signature Brazen contribution. It contained all the right elements in a perfect blend, with the main character’s magnetism topping the chart.
ARC gratefully received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1448463806i%2F5557851._CR0%2C13%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 30, 2016
05/28/2016 --
3.5 Stars!
I actually liked this one and didn't expect to. Not sure why ..
I think the format impacted my enjoyment. It seemed truncated. The story was good, but it would jump ahead -- in the essence of length. Also, there was a lack of detail and depth. I didn't think this was because of the author. It felt like she had the talent to give you engrossing details and depth, but was at the mercy of her format >> had to keep to a specific book length.
I thought the hockey details were well drawn. I really enjoyed that our h was a real person. She lacked a bit of confidence, but I think life and life choices may have impacted this a bit.
Overall a good read. A bit shorter than I usually like, but I'll definitely consider reading more from this author. Especially if sports is a backdrop!
Happy Reading!
3.5 Stars!
I actually liked this one and didn't expect to. Not sure why ..
I think the format impacted my enjoyment. It seemed truncated. The story was good, but it would jump ahead -- in the essence of length. Also, there was a lack of detail and depth. I didn't think this was because of the author. It felt like she had the talent to give you engrossing details and depth, but was at the mercy of her format >> had to keep to a specific book length.
I thought the hockey details were well drawn. I really enjoyed that our h was a real person. She lacked a bit of confidence, but I think life and life choices may have impacted this a bit.
Overall a good read. A bit shorter than I usually like, but I'll definitely consider reading more from this author. Especially if sports is a backdrop!
Happy Reading!
November 16, 2015
Once Upon a Power Play is a great addition to Jennifer Bonds’ Risky Business series. Character-driven, the story very much focusses on Chloe and Ryan and considering I haven’t been overly impressed with many of the Brazen titles of late, this was a welcome discovery. And whilst the storyline was fairly predictable, this couple had an amazing chemistry, didn’t bring a huge amount of drama and created some very sexy heated moments. I couldn’t have asked for much more.
The author’s writing style works perfect for me. She pulls her reader in from the start and has brought characters with superb personalities. There was nothing I didn’t love about Chloe and Ryan, individually or together, and whilst both have their vulnerabilities and insecurities it’s perfectly balanced with verbal sparring, fun and dirty-talk that actually doesn’t leave you cringing.
All in all this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend if you’re looking for a feel-good sexy sports-romance which is low on angst. Here’s hoping that Jennifer Bonds has a story in the making for Ryan’s teammate, Bash as he was a wonderful secondary character who definitely has mileage in him.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
May 3, 2016
This one won't be a long review. Just loved this one! I normally don't rate novellas a 5 ⭐️ rate but the characters were witty, charming, sensual and they were fantastic together.
Loved the snarky humor between Chloe and Ryan and like always, with a good book, I wish it was longer. The epilogue was so flippin sweet!!! This was a great and safe read!
Wonder if we get Becca and her hockey hottie in the next one???
Loved the snarky humor between Chloe and Ryan and like always, with a good book, I wish it was longer. The epilogue was so flippin sweet!!! This was a great and safe read!
Wonder if we get Becca and her hockey hottie in the next one???
September 22, 2023
Another great installment in this series! I'm not the biggest fan of sports romances (don't tell anyone) but this one was really sweet and I loved the added aspect of the kids' charity. I didn't like how during the breakup so much blame was put on the heroine as I felt she was well within her rights to be pissed but the absolutely adorable epilogue made up for it.
December 4, 2015
None of these latest Brazen novels have been working for me. I think it's time for me to break up with them for a while.
I might write a mini-review for this one.
November 12, 2015
ARC gratefully received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
November 16, 2015
**BETH'S 4.5 STAR REVIEW**
I am a huge hockey fan who loves to read so it’s not a surprise that my favorite type of book, hands down, is a hockey romance. There is just something about a great story that includes some great hockey action and a hot Hockey Hunk. That being said, it goes without saying that when it comes to hockey romances, I am very picky about them and I tend to rate them the hardest of all the books I read… what can I say, don’t mess with my hockey, do it right or don’t write it at all.
Being new to Jennifer Bond’s writing as well as the fact this is only her second novel but her first hockey themed one, I will be honest and say that I went into it with a bit of skepticism. I did try my best to go in with an open mind to give her a fair shot to win me over. Well Jennifer Bonds did not disappoint me and truly has a new fan, I hope there is more hot hockey hunks writing in her near future, especially Bash’s story.
Ryan Douglas is the captain of the New York Rangers and is fighting to get back to good health and back on the ice after a career threatening injury last season to his leg. After kissing way too many frogs that seem to like to dump her via a text message, Chloe has decided to swear off men completely and plans on kicking it off with margaritas which leads her to the grocery store for limes where she finds herself at odds with Ryan over the last lime. After his chance meeting with Chloe Jacobs, which is a bit of a near death experience, the sparks fly and they share a night of passion. But one night is not enough for Ryan and fate seems to keep making their paths cross. These two have not had great luck with love lately and are not looking for anything more than a little bit of fun but what they plan and what actually happens isn’t always the same thing.
I was instantly pulled into this story from there very first page and I must add that hardly ever happens when a book is written in third person POV. Between the humor and banter I was sucked in immediately. Then add in their suspenseful meeting, I was completely hooked and couldn’t put it down. Ryan and Chloe were such great characters that I couldn’t help to connect with right away. Ryan was funny and sweet with a romantic side to him on top of being a sexy hot hockey hunk and I loved the chemistry he and Chloe shared. Chloe was smart and sweet but boy did she have a sassy stubborn side and I loved seeing her go head to head with Ryan, the banter between these two never got dull. So many times while reading, I found myself at times giggling or just having a big smile ear to ear. I really enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship, it all started at odds over the last lime. And for the first part of their relationship were still at odds but slowly their relationship grew into a great friendship, that is a friendship with some really great benefits until it became so much more for them. Their story kept me engaged for the entire book and never once did I find it falling flat or feel like it was the same old story with different character names. The writing was so well done and the story had such a great mix of sweet & funny, hot & sexy along with the just right amount of suspense and drama.
Overall this book was a really fantastic read. It had everything I love, great characters, great chemistry, great build up, great plot and most important great hockey action. But it truly has left me wanting more cause I really loved Bash’s character and I am left not only wanting but also needing to get his HEA along with maybe seeing a bit more of Ryan and Chloe. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last, I am definitely going to check out Once Upon a Dare, the first book in this series and is Olivia and Cole’s story, characters we got to see in this book.
I am a huge hockey fan who loves to read so it’s not a surprise that my favorite type of book, hands down, is a hockey romance. There is just something about a great story that includes some great hockey action and a hot Hockey Hunk. That being said, it goes without saying that when it comes to hockey romances, I am very picky about them and I tend to rate them the hardest of all the books I read… what can I say, don’t mess with my hockey, do it right or don’t write it at all.
Being new to Jennifer Bond’s writing as well as the fact this is only her second novel but her first hockey themed one, I will be honest and say that I went into it with a bit of skepticism. I did try my best to go in with an open mind to give her a fair shot to win me over. Well Jennifer Bonds did not disappoint me and truly has a new fan, I hope there is more hot hockey hunks writing in her near future, especially Bash’s story.
Ryan Douglas is the captain of the New York Rangers and is fighting to get back to good health and back on the ice after a career threatening injury last season to his leg. After kissing way too many frogs that seem to like to dump her via a text message, Chloe has decided to swear off men completely and plans on kicking it off with margaritas which leads her to the grocery store for limes where she finds herself at odds with Ryan over the last lime. After his chance meeting with Chloe Jacobs, which is a bit of a near death experience, the sparks fly and they share a night of passion. But one night is not enough for Ryan and fate seems to keep making their paths cross. These two have not had great luck with love lately and are not looking for anything more than a little bit of fun but what they plan and what actually happens isn’t always the same thing.
I was instantly pulled into this story from there very first page and I must add that hardly ever happens when a book is written in third person POV. Between the humor and banter I was sucked in immediately. Then add in their suspenseful meeting, I was completely hooked and couldn’t put it down. Ryan and Chloe were such great characters that I couldn’t help to connect with right away. Ryan was funny and sweet with a romantic side to him on top of being a sexy hot hockey hunk and I loved the chemistry he and Chloe shared. Chloe was smart and sweet but boy did she have a sassy stubborn side and I loved seeing her go head to head with Ryan, the banter between these two never got dull. So many times while reading, I found myself at times giggling or just having a big smile ear to ear. I really enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship, it all started at odds over the last lime. And for the first part of their relationship were still at odds but slowly their relationship grew into a great friendship, that is a friendship with some really great benefits until it became so much more for them. Their story kept me engaged for the entire book and never once did I find it falling flat or feel like it was the same old story with different character names. The writing was so well done and the story had such a great mix of sweet & funny, hot & sexy along with the just right amount of suspense and drama.
Overall this book was a really fantastic read. It had everything I love, great characters, great chemistry, great build up, great plot and most important great hockey action. But it truly has left me wanting more cause I really loved Bash’s character and I am left not only wanting but also needing to get his HEA along with maybe seeing a bit more of Ryan and Chloe. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last, I am definitely going to check out Once Upon a Dare, the first book in this series and is Olivia and Cole’s story, characters we got to see in this book.
October 29, 2015
Sparks, snark, sexual tension and a bit of danger...
Chloe Jacobs and Ryan Douglas were both having a crappy night...then it got worse...much worse...then heated up.
When they meet again, Ryan is met by an angry, feisty Chloe again. And it will take some maneuvering for him to get her to go out with him. She's sworn off men. She does not want to date athletes and there is a little matter about him keeping a big secret.
She is a spit fire. Fresh off her most recent rejection, her sarcasm and man hating behaviors are showing. She loves to challenge Ryan. But under her bravado is an insecure woman afraid of rejection.
Ryan in turn thinks it is fun to push and needle her. He's big, burly, bossy, cocky, and sexy. He's everything she is afraid to want and half of the female population wants him due to his celebrity status as a hockey player. He's been burned in a relationship and not ready for another one. And he is still recovering from an injury and needs to focus on keeping his place on the team.
Hot and heavy. Resistance, retreat, repeat. They are wo people with antagonistic tendencies that set them on fire in the bedroom. It's a battle of wills and both are stubborn. They Fight, Flirt, F***, then do it all again. But will they Fall?
Underneath they are also developing more of an understanding for the other's internal motivations. Seeing the good under the sarcasm and sex appeal is a dangerous game for two people afraid of relationships.
But their lives are complicated by omissions, lies, and public scrutiny that lead to insecurities, fears, trust issues, and hurt feelings. I liked them both and their witty banter, but they could be frustrating too. Are these two meant to be together or will they they lose again in the end?
This was fast, funny, sarcastic, sexy and sweet. It was told in dual points of view. I like hockey books so that is always a plus. Her friend Olivia and boss Cole were the subject of the first book in this series Once Upon a Dareand they make appearances in this one, but this one reads easily as a stand alone.
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Chloe Jacobs and Ryan Douglas were both having a crappy night...then it got worse...much worse...then heated up.
When they meet again, Ryan is met by an angry, feisty Chloe again. And it will take some maneuvering for him to get her to go out with him. She's sworn off men. She does not want to date athletes and there is a little matter about him keeping a big secret.
She is a spit fire. Fresh off her most recent rejection, her sarcasm and man hating behaviors are showing. She loves to challenge Ryan. But under her bravado is an insecure woman afraid of rejection.
Ryan in turn thinks it is fun to push and needle her. He's big, burly, bossy, cocky, and sexy. He's everything she is afraid to want and half of the female population wants him due to his celebrity status as a hockey player. He's been burned in a relationship and not ready for another one. And he is still recovering from an injury and needs to focus on keeping his place on the team.
Hot and heavy. Resistance, retreat, repeat. They are wo people with antagonistic tendencies that set them on fire in the bedroom. It's a battle of wills and both are stubborn. They Fight, Flirt, F***, then do it all again. But will they Fall?
Underneath they are also developing more of an understanding for the other's internal motivations. Seeing the good under the sarcasm and sex appeal is a dangerous game for two people afraid of relationships.
But their lives are complicated by omissions, lies, and public scrutiny that lead to insecurities, fears, trust issues, and hurt feelings. I liked them both and their witty banter, but they could be frustrating too. Are these two meant to be together or will they they lose again in the end?
This was fast, funny, sarcastic, sexy and sweet. It was told in dual points of view. I like hockey books so that is always a plus. Her friend Olivia and boss Cole were the subject of the first book in this series Once Upon a Dareand they make appearances in this one, but this one reads easily as a stand alone.
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2015
I absolutely LOVE finding new authors! Jennifer Bonds is a new author to me and boy, did she not disappoint in her latest RISKY BUSINESS book, ONCE UPON A POWER PLAY. I went into this super excited because I CRAVE sports romances, especially hockey ones. Bonds gives us a sexy and charming romance between hockey player Ryan Douglas and the sassy and unsuspecting Chloe Jacobs. Talk about a night to remember...caught in a sticky situation that is unexpected and a bit terrifying, Ryan and Chloe part ways only to be brought back together in one ridiculously HOT heated exchange.
There is INSANE chemistry between these two. They are both stubborn, going toe to toe in sexy verbal sparring matches. It's hilarious. It's steamy. It's passionate. Once I picked this baby up, there was absolutely NO putting it down. Cocky meets sassy, and there is no turning back. Let the games begin.
I thoroughly enjoyed this steamy and engaging romance. It was page after page of sexy, witty banter, sarcastic play, and high-octane sexual tension AND encounters. I LOVED these characters. I LOVED the secondary characters, and I LOVED that this was told in dual POV. Ryan Douglas stole my heart with his rough and tender ways. He was cocky, charming, and insanely gorgeous. Chloe Jacobs was a kick-ass heroine who I related to on multiple levels. She was done with trying to find her prince charming, and what happens? She ends up finding so much more...her prince charming, her hero, and her happily ever after. Get ready to SWOON ladies!
"There's only one thing I care about right now."
"And what's that?"
"I want you to be my girl."
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
There is INSANE chemistry between these two. They are both stubborn, going toe to toe in sexy verbal sparring matches. It's hilarious. It's steamy. It's passionate. Once I picked this baby up, there was absolutely NO putting it down. Cocky meets sassy, and there is no turning back. Let the games begin.
I thoroughly enjoyed this steamy and engaging romance. It was page after page of sexy, witty banter, sarcastic play, and high-octane sexual tension AND encounters. I LOVED these characters. I LOVED the secondary characters, and I LOVED that this was told in dual POV. Ryan Douglas stole my heart with his rough and tender ways. He was cocky, charming, and insanely gorgeous. Chloe Jacobs was a kick-ass heroine who I related to on multiple levels. She was done with trying to find her prince charming, and what happens? She ends up finding so much more...her prince charming, her hero, and her happily ever after. Get ready to SWOON ladies!
"There's only one thing I care about right now."
"And what's that?"
"I want you to be my girl."
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
November 17, 2015
4.5 stars
Once Upon a Power Play was such a good read!
This book ticked all the boxes for me I couldn't put it down.
Loved the characters, the storyline was fun, entertaining and very steamy.
Both Ryan and Chloe were such likable and memorable characters, loved their banter and witty exchanges, and the chemistry between them was smoking! *fans self*
I'm really enjoying Jennifer Bonds work and I'm excited to see what she'll be writing for us next.
Thank you to Entangled Brazen via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Once Upon a Power Play was such a good read!
This book ticked all the boxes for me I couldn't put it down.
Loved the characters, the storyline was fun, entertaining and very steamy.
Both Ryan and Chloe were such likable and memorable characters, loved their banter and witty exchanges, and the chemistry between them was smoking! *fans self*
I'm really enjoying Jennifer Bonds work and I'm excited to see what she'll be writing for us next.
Thank you to Entangled Brazen via NetGalley for the advance copy.
September 20, 2015
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 4*
Cover: Yay
Trope: Sports romance
Chemistry: Simmering
Review: This book was hawt! I loved the spunk Chloe showed especially at the beginning of the book where she gave as good as she got in the verbal foreplay with Ryan.
I loved the hockey world and can only hope that there will be more books in the series featuring Ryan's team mates (presume Becca's story is next?!)
Originally posted @ Love's A State Of Mind
May 5, 2016
Ryan has this way of making his requests seem really yummy, and damn it was sexy, “and if you’re a good girl, I’ll take you home and eff you so hard you won’t give two shits about Page Six or those Twitter trolls.” I liked this book, I loved Ryan he was a good guy.
May 16, 2016
Easy read with low in the drama department but high in sexy and sweet times.
November 28, 2024
Chloe has not had much success in relationships. She’s just sworn of men when she meets Ryan at the neighborhood bodega. After they inadvertently team up to thwart a robbery, he walks her home and….
Ryan is a pro hockey player, but Chloe knows little about hockey and cares even less. After Ryan’s injury and breakup several months ago, he’s not looking for love and neither is Chloe. But friends with bennies? They’re both all in.
The usual non relationship struggles ensue while they both fight their growing attraction along with biyatchy ghosts from his past.
Ryan is a pro hockey player, but Chloe knows little about hockey and cares even less. After Ryan’s injury and breakup several months ago, he’s not looking for love and neither is Chloe. But friends with bennies? They’re both all in.
The usual non relationship struggles ensue while they both fight their growing attraction along with biyatchy ghosts from his past.
November 17, 2015
Looking for hot sex and hockey? Then you need to pick up a copy of Once Upon A Power Play.
Here’s what’s going on. Chloe Jacobs has just been dumped…via text. Deciding to swear off men, she heads to the bodega in search of margarita ingredients where she squares off against an arrogant yet sexy lumberjack-type who has taken the last lime. During their squabble over the lime, the store is robbed and Ryan decides to play hero. They go back to her place and end up falling into bed together. They part ways, but to Chloe’s surprise Ryan’s a star hockey player whose team her PR company is working closely with. Not willing to let her go, Ryan will do anything, including blackmail, to get her back into his bed. And Chloe’s content to be his bed buddy, but Ryan suddenly wants more.
Okay, so I’m a bit on the fence about this one. I really enjoyed the start. It hooked me and drew me and I really enjoyed the back and forth between Chloe and Ryan, but the game playing in the middle of the novel started to became a little nerve wracking and I was worried that it was only going to be games, sex, and trying to one-up each other. Thankfully, the novel regained its footing at Chapter 12 and it switched into something a bit more substantial and I felt as though I really got to discover who Chloe and Ryan were.
I liked Ryan. He’s recovering from a potentially career-ending injury. His first game back is against the team whose player injured him. He’s also dealing with his ex-girlfriend leaving him when the going got tough. So when he meets Chloe in the bodega and she doesn’t have a clue who he is, he’s immediately drawn to her.
There were times that I liked Chloe and times I wanted to shake her. She’s been hurt by a string of bad breakups. She’s not looking to start a new relationship but she’s content to slip between the sheets with Ryan any chance she gets. It drove me mad that every time Ryan tried to get close to her, she pushed him away. I was really thrilled when she finally allowed Ryan in.
So, Chloe and Ryan had mind-blowing chemistry. And the sex they had was so hot and steamy it could melt the hockey rink. I was kind of hoping that they would have started a more emotional connection sooner, but they did finally find their connection and it was so good.
The conflict in this book came it two parts. The first, was Chloe’s unwillingness to enter into a new relationship and I could completely understand where she was coming from. The second, was the BBM and it drove mad that the whole debacle could have been avoided if Ryan would told her what had happened and Chloe would have listened and not jumped to conclusions. Miscommunication between characters just drives me up the wall.
This is the second book that I’ve read where the hero was a hockey player and, while I haven’t a clue about hockey, I’m really enjoying this fresh approach. Although I wouldn’t necessarily classify this one as a ‘sports romance’ there was quite a bit about hockey thrown in and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, this was a steamy little read. It had a strong start, ebbed a bit in the middle, then finally got it together to turn out to be an enjoyable read.
Here’s what’s going on. Chloe Jacobs has just been dumped…via text. Deciding to swear off men, she heads to the bodega in search of margarita ingredients where she squares off against an arrogant yet sexy lumberjack-type who has taken the last lime. During their squabble over the lime, the store is robbed and Ryan decides to play hero. They go back to her place and end up falling into bed together. They part ways, but to Chloe’s surprise Ryan’s a star hockey player whose team her PR company is working closely with. Not willing to let her go, Ryan will do anything, including blackmail, to get her back into his bed. And Chloe’s content to be his bed buddy, but Ryan suddenly wants more.
Okay, so I’m a bit on the fence about this one. I really enjoyed the start. It hooked me and drew me and I really enjoyed the back and forth between Chloe and Ryan, but the game playing in the middle of the novel started to became a little nerve wracking and I was worried that it was only going to be games, sex, and trying to one-up each other. Thankfully, the novel regained its footing at Chapter 12 and it switched into something a bit more substantial and I felt as though I really got to discover who Chloe and Ryan were.
I liked Ryan. He’s recovering from a potentially career-ending injury. His first game back is against the team whose player injured him. He’s also dealing with his ex-girlfriend leaving him when the going got tough. So when he meets Chloe in the bodega and she doesn’t have a clue who he is, he’s immediately drawn to her.
There were times that I liked Chloe and times I wanted to shake her. She’s been hurt by a string of bad breakups. She’s not looking to start a new relationship but she’s content to slip between the sheets with Ryan any chance she gets. It drove me mad that every time Ryan tried to get close to her, she pushed him away. I was really thrilled when she finally allowed Ryan in.
So, Chloe and Ryan had mind-blowing chemistry. And the sex they had was so hot and steamy it could melt the hockey rink. I was kind of hoping that they would have started a more emotional connection sooner, but they did finally find their connection and it was so good.
The conflict in this book came it two parts. The first, was Chloe’s unwillingness to enter into a new relationship and I could completely understand where she was coming from. The second, was the BBM and it drove mad that the whole debacle could have been avoided if Ryan would told her what had happened and Chloe would have listened and not jumped to conclusions. Miscommunication between characters just drives me up the wall.
This is the second book that I’ve read where the hero was a hockey player and, while I haven’t a clue about hockey, I’m really enjoying this fresh approach. Although I wouldn’t necessarily classify this one as a ‘sports romance’ there was quite a bit about hockey thrown in and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, this was a steamy little read. It had a strong start, ebbed a bit in the middle, then finally got it together to turn out to be an enjoyable read.
November 22, 2015
Every book I've read recently seems to be heavy on the emotional drama and baggage and ONCE UPON A POWER PLAY was a very welcome change for me. Just two people enjoying each other while trying to deal with their commitment issues and best of all, no over the top drama.
Chloe Jacobs has given up on men and dating because of her run of bad luck in the dating game, and the final straw comes when she gets dumped by a text message. What's a girl to do? Make margaritas, of course! A trip to the corner grocery, an armed robbery, a heated exchange with a hunky lumberjack and Chloe's resolution is toast.
Star hockey player and team captain Ryan Douglas is back on the ice after a potentially career-ending injury but his mind is on a sassy and sexy public relations expert, not on the game and he's more than ready for an encore of their mind-blowing one night stand.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Chloe is an independent spitfire and more than a handful and Ryan is confident and bossy and just loves to push her buttons. They enjoy their heated and sometimes mildly sarcastic exchanges and as much as they like to pretend that their relationship is only physical, they are slowly opening up to each other and falling for each other. But how can their fledgling relationship withstand the public scrutiny that is par for the course for Ryan? Will they fight for each other when omissions and half-truth threaten to destroy them? Or will they walk away from what could be the best thing that ever happened to them?
ONCE UPON A POWER PLAY is lighthearted and sexy and has everything I love in books: witty banter, interesting characters and a bit of drama and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy read.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Chloe Jacobs has given up on men and dating because of her run of bad luck in the dating game, and the final straw comes when she gets dumped by a text message. What's a girl to do? Make margaritas, of course! A trip to the corner grocery, an armed robbery, a heated exchange with a hunky lumberjack and Chloe's resolution is toast.
Star hockey player and team captain Ryan Douglas is back on the ice after a potentially career-ending injury but his mind is on a sassy and sexy public relations expert, not on the game and he's more than ready for an encore of their mind-blowing one night stand.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Chloe is an independent spitfire and more than a handful and Ryan is confident and bossy and just loves to push her buttons. They enjoy their heated and sometimes mildly sarcastic exchanges and as much as they like to pretend that their relationship is only physical, they are slowly opening up to each other and falling for each other. But how can their fledgling relationship withstand the public scrutiny that is par for the course for Ryan? Will they fight for each other when omissions and half-truth threaten to destroy them? Or will they walk away from what could be the best thing that ever happened to them?
ONCE UPON A POWER PLAY is lighthearted and sexy and has everything I love in books: witty banter, interesting characters and a bit of drama and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy read.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
November 15, 2015
Chloe and Ryan met during a robbery in process at a grocery store. They didn’t know each other, but they struck up an unlikely sort of chemistry during this experience, one with sparks and crazy, off with humor and banter. They are two souls who have some baggage that colors their interactions during their first meeting, because even though they met and took down a robber and have this crazy chemistry, they should be going out for a drink and celebrating being alive. What happens is Ryan offers to walk her home and they end up having a one night stand. Neither expected to see each other again but they do—Ryan is actually NHL Hockey Captain Ryan Douglas and they meet again when Chloe is assigned to work publicity for a children's charity . The chemistry is still there and that flame is even hotter between the two , especially after that night that they were together. Working together leads to a passionate love affair between the two. They are soon together everywhere , and the dreaded paparazzi is stalking Ryan’s every move because he is a hot commodity , a professional athlete. The two are having wild sex on and off the ice, everywhere. Ryan is working on his injury and is in a great relationship with a Chloe. Chloe is enjoying her time with Ryan. Suddenly when the paparazzi catch sight of Ryan with his ex and take pictures of this and publish it. Will this derail his relationship with Chloe? Or will she have faith in her relationship in Ryan and fight for THEM?
This was an awesome book with a lot of humor, a lot of feistiness, sassy heroine and one rugged hero –You will not go wrong with this sports romance. This is not a book you want to miss.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher via NETGALLEY for my honest review****
This was an awesome book with a lot of humor, a lot of feistiness, sassy heroine and one rugged hero –You will not go wrong with this sports romance. This is not a book you want to miss.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher via NETGALLEY for my honest review****
November 17, 2015
received in exchange for a honest review
Ryan is a sweetheart. He messes up but not intentionally. He is afraid. Afraid due to his horrid ex and what she did. He is an honest hard working guy who loses some confidence when Chloe does a stupid moment and hurts his heart but he doesn’t give up. His best friend helps him see the light and that he is worth it and he is good at what he does. He loses sight of this due to lack of confidence in himself and his abilities.
Chloe is a sweet girl but no confidence and trust in others. She has been burned by guys so now all guys are distrustful. Meeting Ryan she begins to let down her guard but never fully trusts. Chloe’s distrust almost costs her everything and she got lucky that Ryan is who he is and loved her with all that he is.
This is the story of Chloe and ryan and how they start as friends and slowly become more. We see how big Ryan’s heart is and that he isn’t what she thinks. We see him open his heart to chloe and be honest and real with her. We see chloe fall for ryan but never really fully trust him. One moment is misconstrued and Chloe jumps to conclusions. She won’t even listen to ryan closing him off completely which is wrong and in the end Ryan fights for what he wants Chloe.
The characters are fun and sweet. Each has you root for them to get over the past hurts and open their hearts to each other. When they do we are treated to a adorable romance. We see misunderstandings and fighting for someone we love and believe in. A fun book that has you rooting for a HEA for Ryan and Chloe.
Ryan is a sweetheart. He messes up but not intentionally. He is afraid. Afraid due to his horrid ex and what she did. He is an honest hard working guy who loses some confidence when Chloe does a stupid moment and hurts his heart but he doesn’t give up. His best friend helps him see the light and that he is worth it and he is good at what he does. He loses sight of this due to lack of confidence in himself and his abilities.
Chloe is a sweet girl but no confidence and trust in others. She has been burned by guys so now all guys are distrustful. Meeting Ryan she begins to let down her guard but never fully trusts. Chloe’s distrust almost costs her everything and she got lucky that Ryan is who he is and loved her with all that he is.
This is the story of Chloe and ryan and how they start as friends and slowly become more. We see how big Ryan’s heart is and that he isn’t what she thinks. We see him open his heart to chloe and be honest and real with her. We see chloe fall for ryan but never really fully trust him. One moment is misconstrued and Chloe jumps to conclusions. She won’t even listen to ryan closing him off completely which is wrong and in the end Ryan fights for what he wants Chloe.
The characters are fun and sweet. Each has you root for them to get over the past hurts and open their hearts to each other. When they do we are treated to a adorable romance. We see misunderstandings and fighting for someone we love and believe in. A fun book that has you rooting for a HEA for Ryan and Chloe.
November 13, 2015
3.5/5
Although this is the second book in the series it is not necessary to read the first one in order to enjoy Once Upon a Power Play. There are references to the first book within the narrative but it doesn't impact the plot of Once Upon a Power Play in any way.
Told in third person narrative with alternating focus between the two main characters, Chloe and Ryan. Thrown together in extremely unusual circumstances, sparks really fly.
Featuring witty, sarcastic banter between the main characters perfect for fans of Christina Lauren and Emma Chase. Once Upon a Power Play is a fast, engaging romance.
Both character have been burned by previous relationships in different ways, Chloe far more than Ryan, causing emotional barriers to be set in place. Their level of comfort around each other when fate throws them together quickly helps breakdown the barriers. Ryan has defined himself through his sport and when a serious injury threats his career he finds himself re-evaluating his life and it's purpose. Chloe and Ryan fit together perfectly although life of a high-profile sports star causes more than a few problems. Throw in a gold-digging Ex adding to the angst.
I really enjoyed Once Upon a Power Play and have added the first book in the series, Once Upon a Dare to my wish-list.
Although this is the second book in the series it is not necessary to read the first one in order to enjoy Once Upon a Power Play. There are references to the first book within the narrative but it doesn't impact the plot of Once Upon a Power Play in any way.
Told in third person narrative with alternating focus between the two main characters, Chloe and Ryan. Thrown together in extremely unusual circumstances, sparks really fly.
Featuring witty, sarcastic banter between the main characters perfect for fans of Christina Lauren and Emma Chase. Once Upon a Power Play is a fast, engaging romance.
Both character have been burned by previous relationships in different ways, Chloe far more than Ryan, causing emotional barriers to be set in place. Their level of comfort around each other when fate throws them together quickly helps breakdown the barriers. Ryan has defined himself through his sport and when a serious injury threats his career he finds himself re-evaluating his life and it's purpose. Chloe and Ryan fit together perfectly although life of a high-profile sports star causes more than a few problems. Throw in a gold-digging Ex adding to the angst.
I really enjoyed Once Upon a Power Play and have added the first book in the series, Once Upon a Dare to my wish-list.
June 16, 2016
"Nothing worth having comes easy. You gotta fight for what you want in this life.
I really enjoyed this story. It was funny, cute, quick and didn't have too much drama what I really liked. The only thing that was missing for me was maybe a little more interaction with secondary characters. But all in all it was a enjoyabel story with loveable main characters.
"F**king Cinderella. This was all her fault. Teaching little girls they should sit around and wait for Prince Charming to sweep them off their glass-slippered feet."
I really enjoyed this story. It was funny, cute, quick and didn't have too much drama what I really liked. The only thing that was missing for me was maybe a little more interaction with secondary characters. But all in all it was a enjoyabel story with loveable main characters.
"F**king Cinderella. This was all her fault. Teaching little girls they should sit around and wait for Prince Charming to sweep them off their glass-slippered feet."
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