On the Line

Hometown Players #5

by Victoria Denault

He had total control of his game--until she changed all the rules . . .
As one of the best players in the NHL and the "golden boy" of the league, Avery Westwood knows he has to keep his cool--on and off the ice. His whole life is a carefully constructed image of perfection for the media and his brand sponsors. Of course, that means he can never let his true feelings show. But when it comes to the sexy sister of his former teammate, Avery might be willing to make an exception . . . even if it means breaking all his own rules.

As far as Stephanie Deveau is concerned, having a thing for Avery is the equivalent of psychological napalm. Très bad idea. Then he moves in next door, all sexy smiles and a deliciously hot body that she can't resist. Something's happening between them--it's intense, a little (a lot) out of control, and real. Only Avery doesn't know everything about Stephanie's past. And the one exception to his rule might just be the one girl who could destroy his career.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Sports Romance, Contemporary, Hockey, Contemporary Romance, Hockey Romance

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 6, 2016

About the author

Sign up for Victoria's monthly newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/cexOL9

Victoria Denault loves ocean air, seventies music, strong heroines and flawed heroes. She is a former journalist, stand-up comic and corporate marketing minion. Victoria is a Canadian and former Californian who currently lives in a 225 year-old house with her husband, their Chihuahua Maximus and more spiders than she cares to think about.

Reviews

[Jaime Fiction Fangirls · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Avery's book for a while and couldn't wait to get his redemption, I knew it was coming. He had a pretty extensive history for being a puppet for his dad and doing some pretty jerky things in the name of keeping his image, but I could see that there was clearly more to him than that and Stephanie was just the right girl to bring that out.

Even from the prologue I could see how Avery was harboring feelings for Stephanie and immediately into the first chapter I knew he was going to win me over by trying so hard to win Stephanie over.

Obviously I love Avery, but I think I might have a bigger crush on Stephanie. She's not afraid to tell Avery all about himself but she did it in a way that was supportive at the same time. She was exactly what he needed to start leading with his heart and not just his image. She was strong and confident but not perfect or without a past. I love that she didn't let Avery treat her with any disrespect but she also didn't overreact when he tried to correct any error in his ways.

Once again Victoria Denault has written a sexy, sweet story with characters who draw you in and get you invested in their lives as though you're living in this fantastic world of hockey with them. I can't wait to see whose story is next, I'm really hope it's Alex Larue's.

*I received an advanced copy from NetGalley for voluntary review

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great hockey romance. Avery is a very successful hockey player, he's marketable and a guy who's very concerned about his public image. But then he meets Steph, he's known her for a while and his feelings towards her haven't change, they have just got stronger, he's besotted. Steph though has had some difficult years to over come, she's clean and sober know and has been for 5 years. She likes Avery, who wouldn't he's a great guy and a real stud to look at. But when Steph's past threaten's Avery's squeaky clean image, he has to decide which is more important to him, image or love.

Great hockey action and really interesting primary and secondary characters. I felt for Steph, she had gone though so much and Avery, I liked him but he was a little too obsessed with his image. I loved how the characters developed and their relationship is very in the air, it's very much a will they or won't they story.
This books definitely a "must read", I highly recommend it!

[Just Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

***2.5 STARS***

I personally didn't enjoy this book. This was my first book by Victoria Denault so I wasn't sure what to expect. This is book 5 of a series so it's possible the the other 4 were good, but I don't know for sure. I often find that as a a series carries on the books stop being interesting.

[Socially Book Nerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hockey men and hot, sexy and always make a great read. Avery is a public icon, pristine and marketable. He never waivers from the preconceived polished image. But, when he meets Steph all that seems insignificant. Steph had a hard fought teen years. But she has been clean and sobar for 5 years and moving on with her life. She tells it like it is and hold on punches. Avery finds her point blank expression a ray of light, she challenges him and makes him think that pristine isn't the way to live. But, when your image is squeeky clean and there is a perfectly paved path... what happens when a speed bump suddenly appears how will Avery coupe?

[Chasidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Line by Victoria Denault
My rating 5 of 5 stars

This is the dirty book I have read by Victoria Denault and it will not be the last. I fell in love with Avery and Steph from the beginning of the story. You can feel their chemistry from the get go.
Avery is a star NHL player focused on nothing but his career and the brand he's trying to create for himself. He likes everything in order and planned out until Steph congress along. Steph is working hard to overcome troubled youth. She's working as legal secretary and finishing her interior design classes online.

Avery and Steph develop a strong friendship after they are both relocated to SanDiego. After a few months of friendship, neither can fight the attraction for one another. Will their new relationship be able to overcome his father, ex-girlfriend, bitter new teammates and the media frenzy that occurs when Steph's post is leaked to the media?

On the Line is a story about love, heartache, and second chances. It is the 5th book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. It is told in dual POV.

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, sweet and explosive! With the next in her Hometown Players hockey series, Victoria Denault brings us golden boy Avery Westwood’s story. There’s a sweet side to him that comes out only for Stephanie, and watching them fight their attraction and then fall hard is so much fun! Great group of main and supporting characters. Love these guys!

Avery Westwood is the league’s golden child and can do no wrong in the NHL, but he has worked long and hard to make and keep that pristine reputation! For once, he just wants to let his guard down and enjoy being his true self … and he knows just who brings that feeling out in him!

Stephanie Deveau is the sister of one of his former teammates and good friends, so setting his sights on her is dangerous, but she really gets him! Stephanie feels the pull as well, but she knows she is far from the type of girl Avery’s reputation dictates he be with, so she tries to hold back her feelings … but it’s impossible to resist him!

When secrets come to light, will there be a future for these two?

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

This was my first book by Victoria Denault and it is the fifth in her Hometown Players series and I enjoyed it quite a lot and there were times I was worried I would be disappointed, but this author managed to pull back at just the right moment every time making this a very edge of your seat romance. On The Line was a complicated friends to lovers romance that was fun and sexy, yet intense and poignant.

Avery Westwood's entire life and NHL career has been managed by his father who is also his manager since he was sixteen years old. To say that Avery tows the line is putting it mildly; his father has built a brand around Avery's name and reputation as a nice guy and good man and Avery doesn't step out of line, but his friend and ex-teammate's sister Stephanie Deveau makes him want to obliterate the line totally.

Stephanie knows that events from her past will tarnish Avery, but the more time they spend together the more she has a hard time not owning up to the fact that while she enjoys her friendship with Avery, she really wants more from him.

I'll admit at first Avery's incessant need to protect his image drove me crazy as did his kowtowing to his father/manager, and there were a couple of times I wanted to personally slam him into the boards during this book, BUT (and yes that's a big but) I could also understand he felt blindsided, betrayed, and that his life was out of control and he did realize his mistakes and he did try to make up for them and so I have to give him a lot of credit for growing up and finally taking his destiny into his own hands.

I admired Stephanie a great deal for moving on from her past mistakes and working to improve her life every day. I loved that she wasn't afraid to speak her mind and that she routinely called Avery out for his public face. She made mistakes and not sharing everything about her past with Avery was a big one, but in her defense she'd moved on and didn't feel what happened in her past was anyone's business but her own.

Their attraction to one another burned brightly and even as they went through the motions of just being friends, it seeped into everything they did together. I loved Avery's teammates for constantly butting in to their "relationship" before there even was one and for making them both question why they were staying away from one another. Once they got together, it was obvious they were good for one another and brought out the best in each other.

Engaging, entertaining and emotional, I thoroughly enjoyed On The Line and look forward to checking out more books in this series.

ARC provided with no expectations.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***

4.5 Stars

Avery was interesting. I liked that he was the 2 people, the one in control of his reputation with everyone else and the one who could just be himself with Stephanie. I enjoyed how real this felt to me, as this is what finding the right person is about...you can be who you are with them, not who you think you should be to make everyone happy.

I liked that Stephanie had a past. I generally am not a fan of people keeping secrets in books, but this one worked for me...because it was less a secret and more her not telling everything about her past right when she gets involved with someone. I also think it worked as the author was able to keep what she was dealing with ( you find out quickly, but I am still not going to spoil) from becoming a current event...it was fully in her past. And 5 years ago, so long enough that the time has passed that it needs to be the first thing she mentions to everyone.

The pacing of this was strong and the characters were engaging. I believed in them, and they seemed like real people. I thought their reactions were authentic and I believed in their reasons for doing the things they did...which made this a book I enjoyed a lot.

I recommend this book.

***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***

[Samantha (WLABB) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved seeing Avery finally take the wheel and control his own life. He made some pretty big moves in his pursuit of Stephanie, and it was wonderful seeing their romance unfold. Avery was the poster child for the dark side of fame. Image was everything, and he had to sacrifice a lot of himself to maintain that image. Stephanie had fought so hard to regain control of her life, but it seems there were a lot of people not willing to let her leave her past behind. It was a rollercoaster, but I was rooting for these two the whole time. It was interesting making the move from Seattle to San Diego in this book. I enjoyed meeting the "new" guys, while still getting short visits with the old crew. Only one more book left.

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[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Line (Hometown Players #5) by Victoria Denault Victoria Denault’s ON THE LINE is an amazing addition to the Hometown Players series.  I loved this book.  Avery Westwood is the "golden boy" of the NHL and very concerned about his image and brand.  Stephanie Deveau is his ex-teammate’s sister.  She should be off limits but he can’t fight his feeling for her.  Little does he know, she has a secret that could tarnish his stellar image.  This contemporary sports romance primarily takes place in San Diego.  It is suitable for new adult and adult audiences.
 
I must admit, I was annoyed with Avery in book 4, WINNING IT ALL.  He gave his over baring father too much control over his life, causing him to be extreme about maintaining the proper image.  My opinion of him changed in ON THE LINE.  Avery really is a sweet guy.  Some of the things he does to be with Stephanie go above and beyond what most people would do.  Stephanie is good for him.  She tells him exactly what she thinks and doesn’t bow down to him, like pretty much everyone else.  She brings out his fun side.  He feels like he can be himself and relax around her. 
 
Stephanie had a difficult past that she keeps hidden.  She has understandable reasons for not wanting to confide in Avery.  However, she knows she needs to tell Avery but never seems to have the right opportunity.  It ends up causing controversy in the story that the couple needs to overcome. 
 
Sebastian is a wonderful brother to Stephanie.  He is justifiably over protective.  He loves her and would do anything for her.   There are some issues that arise after he discovers the couple relationship.
 
Victoria Denault does an amazing job with the plot.  There are many details and situations throughout the novel that make the story interesting.  The book is well-written.  Even though it is over 300-pages long, I felt like it was a quick read because it flowed perfectly and I could not put it down.  The story was well resolved and had a great conclusion.  However, I fell in love with the characters and didn’t want their story to end.  Victoria Denault is good about mentioning previous characters in her current books, so I’m sure we haven’t heard the last of them.  I loved Victoria Denault’s ON THE LINE.  I could easily see this as a book I would re-read because I enjoyed it so much.  I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery is quite blunt, “yes. I want sex. But not with Lizzie. I want sex with you and only you. So, no, I can’t go near that bed with you in it because I will crawl on top of you and tear Rue’s effing sweatshirt and all your other clothes from your body and eff you like you have never been effed before in your life.” I really liked this book, I loved Avery.

[Ptiteaurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the line is the 5th volume of the Hometown Players saga but can be read independently since we are in a saga where each tome is devoted to a hockey player.

I had a great time reading it because Victoria Denault plunged us into the world of professional ice hockey players while offering us to discover very particular characters who have their destiny in their own hand and who don't expect to be overwhelmed by feelings. Weare very quickly caught into their history and we appreciate the story

Avery Westwood is a very conscientious and professional hockey player. One might even say that he is doing too much. With him all is only based on appearance and thus we think he is a rigid man who is a kind of control freak. His life is controlled down to the last details and the fact that his father Don is his manager speaks volumes about this man who can't live freely. He is trapped in a drastic marketing plan to make him the ideal son-in-law, the irreproachable player. You will never see him in the arms of hockey bunnies or simply enjoying life, the latter is regulated as a Swiss cuckoo and leaves no room for improvisation. At first, the reader has difficulty to attach himself to this character because we would like to see him make decisions by himself and especially see him show us a little crazy acts. He has an unshakeable mastery of all the key moments of his life and fortunately we have chapters from his point of view, which allows us to discover him and understand that he is not the robot his father would like it is. The dynamics of his relationship with Don are all the more astonishing as he shows no emotion: there is no sign of affection, the two men have to make an appointment to see each other and they never discuss personal matters . Everything revolves around sport and everything sweats hockey.

Yet we see a little cracking into the carapace that he forged in contact with his longtime friend, Stephanie Deveau. With the latter, he lets himself go a little and shows who he is. The latter does not hesitate to tell him truths that may make him angry but also makes him go forward to become a better man. It is not that Avery is a bad boy but this perfect appearance is overrated and keeps him away from others. I had a hard time tolerating his behavior and accepting the consequences. We hope that he will finally break the chains that hold him prisoner of the role in which he has shut himself up. With Stephanie, he changes and reveals little by little his feelings. But as the saying goes : if we try to act simply and your true nature will appear? What will he do when he discovers Stéphanie's past? Can he prevent himself from controlling everything or will his image be more important than love?

Stephanie Deveau is a regular in the world of professional hockey players since her brother Sebastian (who was the hero of the previous book, Winning it all) is one of them. SHe thus knows everything about thisworld ans its specific codes. Yet we feel she is destabilized when she faces Avery. She has known him for a very long time and I loved the fact that she does not try to flatter his ego. She doesn't hesitate to scorn the perfect image he wants to give because his attitude and his reactions are far from praiseworthy. He only has his career in focus and nothing else seems tomatter. So Stephanie is an interesting character because she is not void. She has a past that has been significant and has allowed her to become who she is today. She learned from her mistakes and made every effort to made her dream come true : that is to say be an interior designer. She spares no effort and gives everything to succeed. Moreover, I liked to see her struggling not to succumb to the charm of Avery. She knows him and knows that if her secret is discovered, it may change everything. He is uncompromising about it and she does not want to risk being hurt. So Stephanie is not a woman who complains about her fate. She shows great maturity and strength in dealing with events and she can of course count on her brother Sebastian to watch over her. Will she deprive herself of a beautiful love story? Will there be new risks?

In short, I had a great time reading this story with the heroes of Victoria Denault. Not only did the author plunge us into the thrilling universe of professional hockey players but she also created a gallery of secondary characters really fun that one wants to know more deeply. On the Line is in line with the sexy sports romances and offers us a good dose of humor, love and testosterone.

[book bruin · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

On the Line was an entertaining and angsty friends to lovers sports romance. It is book 5 in the Hometown Players series, but can be read as a standalone.

I loved that the story is told from the points of views of both main characters, Avery and Stephanie. Both characters were likeable and relatable because they were perfectly imperfect. They each had history and emotional baggage that influenced their decisions for better or for worse. The chemistry between them was fantastic and the will they or won't they kept me turning the pages way past my bedtime. I especially liked that Stephanie, though nervous about her past, stayed true to herself and made no excuses about it. Her past was firmly in the past and although painful, had shaped who she had become. Avery also, was so conflicted about what he had known all his life versus following his heart. The struggles and angst rang true to me, even though I have no first hand experience with what they went through. I became invested in these characters and couldn't help but root for them to get their HEA.

Of course, there was the inevitable push and pull, and even a bit of a love triangle, but only barely since the Hero very clearly did not want any further relationship with the other woman. I felt it added just the right amount of angst and I liked that there wasn't unnecessary drama, besides what the main characters brought upon themselves. I devoured this book and found it was the perfect blend of humor, steam, and angst. Definitely recommend it!

[Tpagirl Loves Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the Line by Victoria Denault is the fifth book in the Hometown Players series. True to form, it was well written with an interesting plot.

I had started this several times before I really gave it a chance. Not sure why but it may have been that Avery wasn't a favorite of mine in past books. He appeared weak and I lean towards alpha. However, once I gave it an opportunity, I loved Avery and Stephanie and thoroughly enjoyed the book. And yea, thankfully he was alpha too.

Avery Westwood, the NHL's golden boy....the Monk.....the Saint, and anything else that represents a pure untarnished image. Avery has spent his entire life ensuring his brand was pristine. It was more his father's doing, but it was engrained into his soul, mind and body.

Stephanie Deveau, the sister to Sebastian (Winning It All, book 4), is beautiful smart and successful. However, she has secrets buried deep about her troubled past that is only known by her brother.

Denault takes us through the friendship and relationship development, and you guessed it, the public unveiling of Stephanie's past. Although the path was predictable, it was the journey that took them there that made the story successful. Denault also provided supporting characters with side stories that added humor, depth and dimension to the storyline.

All in all, a great addition to the series. Although not announced, it appears Alex will be the next saga to unfold.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on Slow Readers Blog

The Hometown Players series by Victoria Denault is one that I’ve really enjoyed and On the Line is no different.

Denault writes fantastic characters. They feel very open and real and it feels like I’m hanging out with a big group of my own friends. The banter is always witty, the conversations organic, and nothing ever feels forced.

And that’s one of the things that I loved most about Avery and Stephanie’s relationship. It began as a friendship that never felt forced and evolved from there. Avery is a significantly talented hockey player obsessed with image and success. Stephanie is just an average woman who made some mistakes as a teen and wants to move on from them.

I liked their individual characters but it was the two of them together that I really couldn’t get enough of. And there really is something special about the way Denault writes that I can’t quite put my finger on. It has something to do with her characters’ chemistry though that makes me swoon in an extra special way.

If you’re looking for a new author to try out, I highly recommend this author and series. You don’t have to be a hockey fan by any means whatsoever. But if you are, it helps feed the addiction!

[HR-ML · Rating 1 out of 5]

A disappointing CR.

Image-obsessed Avery was a NHL hockey pro &
Stephanie a legal secretary. Steph's bro Seb had been
the hero's teammate. Some of Av's teammates called
him "the monk." He had a few one night hook-ups
but only one girlfriend before Steph. I did not 'buy' the
author's rationale for this. Avery's manipulative father
acted as his business mgr. Av took too long to stand up
to his dad. Av transferred from a winning team to a
losing team to be in the same city as Steph. The former
captain of his new team showed his devious ways. I
wanted more romance and less drama, especially from
family & media.

I found Av too rigid & Steph too emotionally fragile (she
5 yrs out from rehab). Steph did not see a lie by omission,
was still a lie. Seb took on Av even though Steph blind-
sided Avery. The MCs: drama surrounded them.

The author needed to do her research. Anyone who spent
8 mos. in drug rehab needed to demand his/ her money
back!!!

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my sweet lord! I never wanted this to end! It was so good! Can we get a prequel? And another epilogue? Anything?!? Give me more Stephanie and Avery!!!! Please!!!!!

[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review

I am not going to lie, even though Avery Westwood was kind of mostly in the background of the previous books in this series, I didn't like the man. He was self serving, worried about himself and his image, and willing to do whatever it means to keep that image - no matter who he hurt to do it.

I was concerned that that was what we were going to get more of in On The Line, but I should never have feared, as Ms Denault has completely swung my opinion, and I am now completely on #TeamAvery.

I loved how he is with the girl he has been admiring for a while, Stephanie. I can understand why he has kept his distance - she's his teammate/friends sister after all. But

I adored Avery and Stephanie together. A big plus for me was that they didn't immediately fall into bed with each other, their relationship was kind of a slow burn (with lots of UST in the mix). But when they finally get their act together and get to the sexy times.. phew, it is hot hot hot.

I loved getting more of the guys and gals from the earlier books. I adore Seb (Stephanie's brother) and his overprotective streak. I love the banter with Alex (please, he needs to find his one!) and can't wait to see where this series goes next.

I am a huge fan of hockey romance, so I will keep reading this series as long as Ms Denault writes them.

[Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

There isn't a romance author out there that has made me fall more in love with these heroes that put it all on the line both on and off the ice more than Victoria Denault. I have fallen hard for each of these skating hotties in different ways for very different reasons. Victoria brings us back into this aggressive, competing world to watch another hockey player lose his heart to love while winning on the ice.
Avery and Stephanie are heating things up and keeping things interesting and real in On The Line, they soon have us panting and quickly turning the pages in a frenzy to experience more of their passion, drama, and heart.

Avery Westwood has spent his hockey career worried about his image and being pressured by his dad/manager to take advantage of every promotional opportunity handed to him. Lately he has been consumed with dissatisfaction over sacrificing integrity for image, so he decides to make a change that will affect his career and his character beginning with the beautiful and spunky Stephanie. Little does he know that she has the power to break his heart and destroy his image in more ways than one. Avery swept me away with his dirty talk, gallant gestures, and big heart. He is the perfect opponent to capture Stephanie's heart and score the goal! I loved delving deeper into the mystery of Avery and watching his metamorphosis into a bigger person than just a star hockey player.

Stephanie Deveau is the sister of one of Avery's best friends and is making a big change in her life. So the last thing she needs is to get to know this hockey superstar up close and personal. Falling for Avery will not only complicate her life but will bring Stephanie's unsavory past into limelight, if only she can tell it to her heart. Stephanie wowed me with her strength and ability to not let her past define who she is today. She overcomes so many obstacles when dealing with the media and an over protective brother that you can't help but cheer as loud as you can for her to win not only Avery's heart but also her personal struggles.

Victoria Denault delivers another scorching read that will have you fantasizing about hockey players and craving more romance by this amazing author! I highly recommend On The Line and the rest of the Hometown Players for mouth watering athletes that are sure to win your heart and steam up your kindle with their naughty talk, bedroom action, and over the top confessions of love. I cannot wait to see what hero and heroine Victoria Denault will have us obsessing over next but I am sure they will charm and seduce us as well.

[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victoria Denault’s ON THE LINE is an amazing addition to the Hometown Players series. I loved this book. Avery Westwood is the "golden boy" of the NHL and very concerned about his image and brand. Stephanie Deveau is his ex-teammate’s sister. She should be off limits but he can’t fight his feeling for her. Little does he know, she has a secret that could tarnish his stellar image. This contemporary sports romance primarily takes place in San Diego. It is suitable for new adult and adult audiences.

I must admit, I was annoyed with Avery in book 4, WINNING IT ALL. He gave his over baring father too much control over his life, causing him to be extreme about maintaining the proper image. My opinion of him changed in ON THE LINE. Avery really is a sweet guy. Some of the things he does to be with Stephanie go above and beyond what most people would do. Stephanie is good for him. She tells him exactly what she thinks and doesn’t bow down to him, like pretty much everyone else. She brings out his fun side. He feels like he can be himself and relax around her.

Stephanie had a difficult past that she keeps hidden. She has understandable reasons for not wanting to confide in Avery. However, she knows she needs to tell Avery but never seems to have the right opportunity. It ends up causing controversy in the story that the couple needs to overcome.

Sebastian is a wonderful brother to Stephanie. He is justifiably over protective. He loves her and would do anything for her. There are some issues that arise after he discovers the couple relationship.

Victoria Denault does an amazing job with the plot. There are many details and situations throughout the novel that make the story interesting. The book is well-written. Even though it is over 300-pages long, I felt like it was a quick read because it flowed perfectly and I could not put it down. The story was well resolved and had a great conclusion. However, I fell in love with the characters and didn’t want their story to end. Victoria Denault is good about mentioning previous characters in her current books, so I’m sure we haven’t heard the last of them. I loved Victoria Denault’s ON THE LINE. I could easily see this as a book I would re-read because I enjoyed it so much. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this is the 5th book of this hockey series by Victoria Denault, it's the first that I've read, and I have to say that I am a huge fan! Avery and Stephanie's story is a passionate one with two awesome characters you just know are meant to be together. Stephanie is an amazing character. She's strong and smart and unafraid to speak her mind and call Avery on his bs. But, she's made serious mistakes in her past and is now living a life filled with the consequences of those mistakes. Avery is the golden boy of hockey, his entire image has been crafted by his father, who is also his long time manager. Avery knows that if he wants the life he's been raised to maintain, he must abide by his father's wishes: be the best hockey player, be a good guy with the perfect façade. Nowhere does Stephanie fit into this life, not with her past that Avery is unaware of. So, Stephanie has friend zoned Avery for just those reasons. And they've been just friends for a long time, that is until Avery moves in next door to her in San Diego. Then all the sudden feelings develop and they're in a sexy relationship.

I'll admit to wanting to smack Avery more than once while reading. His incessant need for control of his image drove me crazy. But, his father raised him that way and it's the only way he knows how to be, so it's understandable. Once he let go of that control just a little and let Stephanie into his inner thoughts and his heart, that's when I started to like him. I absolutely loved Stephanie throughout the entirety of On the Line. How could I not? She's smart, she's tough, and she has faced the consequences of her bad decisions with grace and dignity. She's pretty amazing, and Avery knew it, that's why he fell so hard for her.

Now that I've read this book, I'm hooked and intend to read the whole series. Victoria Denault has impressed me with On the Line's excellent writing, electric connection, likable characters and steamy moments.

I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.

[patrick Lorelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series and though you don’t need to read the books in order, you will get a better understanding of the two main characters if you had read book #4. Either way the book opens with Avery the captain of the hockey out on the lake with Stephanie, she is the sister of one of his teammates and he has grown attracted to her since she told him off in front of the team because he was more worried about his appearance, and publicity than helping out a friend. Which she tells him he never was. Now months later he is trying to figure out how to ask her out on a date when the canoe tips over and the next thing he knows she is gone from the party and from Seattle. Months later he finds out she is living and working in San Diego. He ends up signing a deal with the team and then moves in next door to her. The story goes along until he is blind-sided by her past as a teen and she tells him once again he is more worried about his appearance in the press than her as a person. Now his game is in the tank and he feels like s—t, you think it can’t get worse? You forgot her brother plays defense man and though he is a forward- center so when the puck drops Avery wins the face off Sebastian is nowhere near him but in seconds Avery is down on the ice with Sebastian looking at with a red face like he has been skating all night but Avery knows it’s rage and doesn’t fight back, (now that’s good old fashion hockey girl). The story goes along from there with a few good twists as to who leaked the information to the press, and I was not surprised. I did not like the guy in the first book and don’t like the character. Overall a good story, not as much hockey as some of the other ones, a little more sex, who doesn’t hockey, and fighting? A good book to go along with her other books. I got this book from netgalley. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com

[Tiffany Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Boy do I love me some sexy hockey players and Avery Westwood makes the cut! Even with his stick-up-the-butt-attitude right off the bat, this guy was quite the charmer and only got better as the story went on.

Stephanie Deveau is the sister to a professional hockey player, so the no dating a player's sister rule applies to Avery, which he intends on breaking very soon. Avery played in Seattle and has now transferred to San Diego where he just happens to bump into the beautiful Stephanie.

These two had a bit of a connection months ago, however never really went out of the friend-zone due to past circumstances. Avery lives a very rigid and controlled life. Everything is mapped and planned out to protect his brand. Stephanie has a few skeletons in her closet that wouldn't be the best thing for Avery's brand right now, but the heart wants what the heart wants. Brothers and managers be dammed, Avery and Stephanie are going to date and live happily ever after...if it were only that easy.

The book is well written from dual points of view. I loved the banter and instant chemistry between Avery and Stephanie. They joked like the old friends they were and once the line was crossed, kept things as light and fun as they could with the circumstances surrounding them. There is a handful of characters to help the story along and we learn a little about them as they are introduced. On the Line can be read as a standalone, however after meeting some of the guys, my interest is piqued and I will be checking out the previous books in this series.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.

[Susan Trewick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series, it could be read as a standalone but I suggest you read the previous books as you will get a better understanding of the series. I loved this book, I was hooked from the first page. In the previous books Avery came across as a bit of a douche, all he focused on was hockey and his image. I'm so pleased we got to see the real him, we also get a better understanding of his relationship with his father. I really liked Stephanie, she wasn't afraid to call Avery out on his BS. I was pleased Avery went after her, he couldn't of picked a better girl. There's a few twists and turns and the chemistry between them scorches the pages. Another great read from this author and I can't wait for the next book in the series.

** Reviewed for Sweet and Spicy Reads-ARC provided for honest review **

[Dena · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the Line is another fantastic book by Ms. Denault! I couldn't wait to find out all about Avery, he has this mysterious side to him and nobody really knows him that well... that is, until Stephanie. Stephanie always had a crush on Avery but never thought anything would happen with him, what she doesn't know is that he had a crush on her also and wanted her more than anything. He just didn't know how to go about it, especially since he's so close to Stephanie's brother Sebastian. We all know Sebastian is extremely protective and the last thing Avery wanted was to piss his friend off... but what happens when feelings are too strong to control? Oh that's right, a romp between the sheets. Will Avery and Stephanie want more from each other than some hot friends with benefits sex? Find out by reading On the Line and fall in love with the characters just as much as I have. 4.5 steamy stars.

[The Book Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book about friends that move on to be lovers, but its not only about that.. its about how your past can either make you or break you.. how to stop letting people control your life and how to finally find the happiness that you know deep down you deserve.. It was definite a heartwarming story and I can't wait to see what else is coming!

[The Book Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book about friends that move on to be lovers, but its not only about that.. its about how your past can either make you or break you.. how to stop letting people control your life and how to finally find the happiness that you know deep down you deserve.. It was definite a heartwarming story and I can't wait to see what else is coming!

[Irina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite the predictable story line, it's a very nice read. Loved the heroine and fell in love with the hero, who's trying to change his life and struggles at times, but gets it done in the end. I've missed a proper conversation between Steph and Avery about the incidents in the past when the get together, not just sex and a rudimental talk, but what would you do when the sex is just soooo god. ;)

[AnnaMeansFun · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m really confused about the character arcs, when it comes to this book.

If it was a complete standalone, it would be a pretty good story. However, it was a part of the series, we’ve met those characters before and the ones in this book had nothing to do with themselves in the previous books.

Avery was called a monk, since apparently nobody ever heard of any of his “conquests” but he hooked up with Callie previously at the bachelor party, where all his friends were and was happy to do it again, when they hung out at the bar as a group. So that doesn’t track.

He also was supposed to be completely under the influence of his awful father who pretty much forced him to give up the team he loved.
Yet, as it turns out, he has absolutely no problem standing his ground and telling his father to get lost. The aforementioned father also isn’t a jerk caring only about the money but a father who actually cares about his son, albeit he probably needed some boundaries properly set.

Which one is it, then?

I liked the story in itself, even though it could use more groveling, the dude really screwed up and Stephanie didn’t owe anybody her past. Also, she had every right to wait until she was ready to talk about it.

Frankly, the whole thing with reporters blowing up her past and calling her for days was too far-fetched and not accurate, whatsoever. Nobody ever asks hockey players about their personal life in the post-game interviews and nobody cares about their significant others at all, unless they’re some sort of celebrity.

Nevertheless, it was an entertaining read, the side characters actually started showing up more, there was more locker room banter and more hockey in general.

[Books Laid Bare · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quiet Sunday afternoon read and while it didn’t exactly blow me away it did find it quite therapeutic. I found it relaxing and that is the perfect way to spend a weekend.
I found Avery a little perplexing at points and initially he was edging towards getting on my nerves but I was glad I stuck with him because in the end I found that I actually quite liked the guy, so I’m please I gave him the chance to show me what he was made of so to speak. Saying that I was really pleased that Stephanie wasn’t prepared to take any of his nonsense, that she was willing to stand up for herself and almost force him to take a good hard look at not only what his actions were going to cost him but how he could put things right and that wasn’t only with Stephanie.
Stephanie was just what Avery didn’t know he wanted so to speak but he had a mind set to amend in order to not only get her but keep her too.
Could he?
Well, I loved the connection between the two of them, it was given time to evolve, and that is often a much forgotten part of any relationship. They got to know each other and I mean outside of the bedroom.
Overall this was a sound read, it kept me entertained and the, main characters kept me engaged but it was the secondary characters that stole the show. Seb…yep he is my man so hands off ladies! And Alex, if Seb doesn’t work out I think I might just keep him too.