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Tulsa Thunderbirds #4
Rites of Passage
USA Today bestselling author Catherine Gayle presents another novel in the sexy Tulsa Thunderbirds hockey romance series, a spin-off from the Portland Storm series.
Where do you go once you’ve hit rock bottom?
With his world already in shambles, Andrew Nash’s life plummets even further after a freak accident on the ice exposes his deepest secret. Still unsure if he should ever return to the game he’s devoted his life to, the future Thunderbirds captain knows he isn’t quite ready to throw in the towel. Meeting a talented and sexy artist changes everything for Drew.
But Ravyn Penn’s past is darker than his, and her wounds cut deeper. Drew’s looking forward, but Ravyn is stuck dwelling over a life that leaves her guilt-ridden and full of regret.
Drew’s a fighter, and he knows they need to claw their way out of the past—together—even when the future promises no guarantees. But can Ravyn let go and blindly trust him—taking a rite of passage through the darkness—to find the life they both deserve?
Where do you go once you’ve hit rock bottom?
With his world already in shambles, Andrew Nash’s life plummets even further after a freak accident on the ice exposes his deepest secret. Still unsure if he should ever return to the game he’s devoted his life to, the future Thunderbirds captain knows he isn’t quite ready to throw in the towel. Meeting a talented and sexy artist changes everything for Drew.
But Ravyn Penn’s past is darker than his, and her wounds cut deeper. Drew’s looking forward, but Ravyn is stuck dwelling over a life that leaves her guilt-ridden and full of regret.
Drew’s a fighter, and he knows they need to claw their way out of the past—together—even when the future promises no guarantees. But can Ravyn let go and blindly trust him—taking a rite of passage through the darkness—to find the life they both deserve?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2016
27 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Gayle
73 books923 followers***Please note that series numbering of the Portland Storm series is different at Goodreads than it is on Catherine's website or at any retailer. Goodreads policy will not allow the series numbering to match anything else. If this confuses you, please complain to Goodreads, as it is not Catherine's fault.***
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.
Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
November 10, 2016
Happy Book Birthday
Catherine Gayle knows how to write emotionally naked stories with heat, heart and complex characters.
“It wasn’t exactly overnight. It’d been more of a gradual shift in our relationship from casual sex to not-so-casual sex, and now to…what? I wasn’t sure.”
Andrew Nash is in a sad and lonely place and he can’t see it changing for the better any time soon, especially not after the entire world learned about his deepest darkest secret. Life could definitely be worse though. As his teammates continue to push him to come back to the game he’s dedicated himself to, to take the captain’s role once Zee retires and meddle in his love life when they find out there’s a sexy artist in his support group who seems to have sparked some vivacity into him, life starts to look up. But can he convince the lavender haired woman of the same?
“I knew it wouldn’t be perfectly sunny all the time. But at least I could see the light, and I knew there was more on the way.”
Ravyn Penn uses her purple colored dreadlocks and body art to camouflage the deep-seated scars guilt and regret her past has left as well as the external cuts she uses as a coping mechanism until the most unlikely of persons sees right through her façade and is determined to help her help him set aside their pasts and the unfortunate cards life dealt them and fight for the happiness they deserve. But can she trust Drew enough to let go?
Every time I open up a Catherine Gayle book I know I’m in for an exciting and touching story I won’t want to put down. As predicted, Rites of Passage had me hooked from the start with all the feels and the interesting subject matter that’s characteristic of Catherine’s books.
From the moment they lock eyes on each other the chemistry between Drew and Ravyn is off the charts, but despite that, they’re both very broken and flawed with almost impenetrable walls safeguarding them.
Drew ostracized himself from practically everyone feeling as though he was barely surviving and didn’t want to drag anyone down with him and Ravyn is so full of shame and regret she’s constantly running from everyone, pushing Drew away not just because she was embarrassed by her secrets but because she was unaccustomed to having anyone care for her.
But once Drew decides to chase her, not even she can resist him. Sweet, sexy and patiently he starts to break down her defenses. It’s a difficult and long road for both of them, but one worth taking.
“It wasn’t exactly overnight. It’d been more of a gradual shift in our relationship from casual sex to not-so-casual sex, and now to…what? I wasn’t sure.”
The support system that surrounded Drew played a very important role in both their healing process and I loved having not just the guys from the Thunderbirds helping out but also the wives and girlfriends. It was a great way to catch up with old friends from past books as well as get a glimpse at the stories that are to come.
“Combined, this team has broad shoulders,” Zee said. “Let us use them. We can all carry it with you.”
Rites of Passage is book #4 and another wonderful addition to The Tulsa Thunderbirds series by Catherine Gayle. Full of love, hope and sexy moments with a hockey backdrop. It can be read as a standalone. Told from both points of view.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. *
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January 4, 2017
Slick's review:
One of the reasons I love author Catherine Gayle's work is she doesn't shy away from tough subjects and while her stories can be emotional and often make me cry it isn't because there's no hope, it's because of the way her characters grab hold of your heart and the way her words make you feel everything her characters are dealing with and because there IS hope and especially in Rites of Passage the hero and heroine need hope in their lives just as much as they need someone in their corner believing in them. From the heartfelt and passionate acknowledgements to the very last word, I loved this story with all of my heart. Being a teen of the 70's and a young adult of the 80's I remember the days when the most people worried about when having unprotected sex was pregnancy, then came the herpes scare and then the AIDS epidemic and they changed everything. I remember the confusion, the worry, and unfortunately the hate that was thrown towards gay men and how many believed "they got what they deserved." We've come a long way both in treatment and in understanding about HIV and AIDS but there is more to learn and better education is still needed and while I know some people might feel that a character with HIV doesn't belong in a romance novel, I say why not? Are people with HIV not allowed to have a life or not worthy of falling in love? Ms. Gayle shows us so much in this book including that many people are infected through no fault of their own, that just like any life threatening illness they go through stages of guilt and recovery, and most of all that a strong support system is key to keeping them healthy, safe and secure. I applaud Ms. Gayle just as I have other authors who have included characters with HIV in their works and I urge you to take a chance on Rites of Passage because it is not only brilliantly written but because it brings forth a passionate plea for tolerance, education and understanding, but most of all it conveys a message of hope and love.
At the end of the last book in this series we learned after Andrew "Drew" Nash took a skate blade to his neck that he was HIV positive and yes, I'll admit I sucked in a huge breath when the book ended that way. I had so many questions, like thousands of them but, I was a good girl and I did not once berate Ms. Gayle about them. I trusted that she would tell his story and she would answer them and she did and then some in Rites of Passage. To say Drew's life has changed considerably over the last two years is putting it mildly and as the off season begins to wind down, Drew has a huge decision to make about returning to the ice. Drew is for lack of a better term, in a funk or to be flat honest he's in a depressed state one his friends, teammates and their significant others plan to get him out of quickly. Despite his objections a group meeting at the community center for people living with HIV and through the help of his friends, he's getting back to being himself, but when he is introduced a striking woman with purple dreadlocks and tattooed arms he has the urge to help her through her first meeting and he knows he wants to know her story.
The last place Ravyn Penn wants to be is at a meeting for people living with HIV, but unless she wants to return to the "looney bin" she has to stick it out. Ravyn knows she doesn't want to share her story with anyone, she can't take the looks of pity or worse those of horror over what she's done, but Drew seems bound and determined to get in her space and she lashes out only to have Drew offer her something she really decides she wants even if he seems a little shocked at her acceptance.
I'm not even going to pretend this is a hearts and flowers romance because it isn't; both Drew and Ravyn are dealing with multiple issues and in each other they find the solace they need to make their lives a bit better. Drew is in a better place than Ravyn, but in her he see the helplessness that he recently felt and he wants to be there for her because he realizes she doesn't have the support system he has had. In all honesty Drew went above and beyond for someone he really doesn't know well and in return Ravyn begins to realize she can trust. I'll admit I was a bit concerned that Drew was taking on too much given everything he's dealing with and while he had a couple of moments where I think he even realized it, by that time he was so invested he asked for help and made it all work. I appreciated that Ravyn slowly opened up to Drew and let him in on everything she was dealing with and even more so that Drew took everything in stride and helped her to see that despite her feelings of inadequacy she did what was right for everyone involved at the time. While they did use sex as comfort and a means to not deal with their lives at the start of this book, over time that changed and I loved watching the way their relationship grew and changed right along with their feelings.
One thing I feel like I must mention is the absolute support Drew received from his teammates, the coaches, trainers, medical staff as well as the NHL in this book. I can only hope that at some point in my lifetime, we'll see the same acceptance in real life. I also appreciated that so many of Drew's teammates and their significant others reached out to Ravyn and even though at first she wasn't ready for it, they let her know they were there for her.
Catherine Gayle has once again written a story that tackles some very serious issues, but managed to give readers a hopeful romance in which they will feel a wide range of emotions and it is absolutely not to be missed.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
One of the reasons I love author Catherine Gayle's work is she doesn't shy away from tough subjects and while her stories can be emotional and often make me cry it isn't because there's no hope, it's because of the way her characters grab hold of your heart and the way her words make you feel everything her characters are dealing with and because there IS hope and especially in Rites of Passage the hero and heroine need hope in their lives just as much as they need someone in their corner believing in them. From the heartfelt and passionate acknowledgements to the very last word, I loved this story with all of my heart. Being a teen of the 70's and a young adult of the 80's I remember the days when the most people worried about when having unprotected sex was pregnancy, then came the herpes scare and then the AIDS epidemic and they changed everything. I remember the confusion, the worry, and unfortunately the hate that was thrown towards gay men and how many believed "they got what they deserved." We've come a long way both in treatment and in understanding about HIV and AIDS but there is more to learn and better education is still needed and while I know some people might feel that a character with HIV doesn't belong in a romance novel, I say why not? Are people with HIV not allowed to have a life or not worthy of falling in love? Ms. Gayle shows us so much in this book including that many people are infected through no fault of their own, that just like any life threatening illness they go through stages of guilt and recovery, and most of all that a strong support system is key to keeping them healthy, safe and secure. I applaud Ms. Gayle just as I have other authors who have included characters with HIV in their works and I urge you to take a chance on Rites of Passage because it is not only brilliantly written but because it brings forth a passionate plea for tolerance, education and understanding, but most of all it conveys a message of hope and love.
At the end of the last book in this series we learned after Andrew "Drew" Nash took a skate blade to his neck that he was HIV positive and yes, I'll admit I sucked in a huge breath when the book ended that way. I had so many questions, like thousands of them but, I was a good girl and I did not once berate Ms. Gayle about them. I trusted that she would tell his story and she would answer them and she did and then some in Rites of Passage. To say Drew's life has changed considerably over the last two years is putting it mildly and as the off season begins to wind down, Drew has a huge decision to make about returning to the ice. Drew is for lack of a better term, in a funk or to be flat honest he's in a depressed state one his friends, teammates and their significant others plan to get him out of quickly. Despite his objections a group meeting at the community center for people living with HIV and through the help of his friends, he's getting back to being himself, but when he is introduced a striking woman with purple dreadlocks and tattooed arms he has the urge to help her through her first meeting and he knows he wants to know her story.
The last place Ravyn Penn wants to be is at a meeting for people living with HIV, but unless she wants to return to the "looney bin" she has to stick it out. Ravyn knows she doesn't want to share her story with anyone, she can't take the looks of pity or worse those of horror over what she's done, but Drew seems bound and determined to get in her space and she lashes out only to have Drew offer her something she really decides she wants even if he seems a little shocked at her acceptance.
I'm not even going to pretend this is a hearts and flowers romance because it isn't; both Drew and Ravyn are dealing with multiple issues and in each other they find the solace they need to make their lives a bit better. Drew is in a better place than Ravyn, but in her he see the helplessness that he recently felt and he wants to be there for her because he realizes she doesn't have the support system he has had. In all honesty Drew went above and beyond for someone he really doesn't know well and in return Ravyn begins to realize she can trust. I'll admit I was a bit concerned that Drew was taking on too much given everything he's dealing with and while he had a couple of moments where I think he even realized it, by that time he was so invested he asked for help and made it all work. I appreciated that Ravyn slowly opened up to Drew and let him in on everything she was dealing with and even more so that Drew took everything in stride and helped her to see that despite her feelings of inadequacy she did what was right for everyone involved at the time. While they did use sex as comfort and a means to not deal with their lives at the start of this book, over time that changed and I loved watching the way their relationship grew and changed right along with their feelings.
One thing I feel like I must mention is the absolute support Drew received from his teammates, the coaches, trainers, medical staff as well as the NHL in this book. I can only hope that at some point in my lifetime, we'll see the same acceptance in real life. I also appreciated that so many of Drew's teammates and their significant others reached out to Ravyn and even though at first she wasn't ready for it, they let her know they were there for her.
Catherine Gayle has once again written a story that tackles some very serious issues, but managed to give readers a hopeful romance in which they will feel a wide range of emotions and it is absolutely not to be missed.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
October 30, 2016
4.5 stars
Drew Nash is already facing some challenges and the whole world is now privy to his secret. He has been struggling and in a dark place, but his friends and team mates are determined to kick his butt and get him back to living his life. His newest challenge is a woman in his support group. Her appearance is quite vibrant, but she would like to shrink into the background and keep people away. Ravyn Penn is in an even darker place and has more issues than Drew...and really has limited support.
They have a passionate encounter, but then she shuts him down. He chases, she resists, then lets herself get caught. But she is all about getting physical and not being emotional. She is guarded and depressed. She has secrets, guilt, shame, regret, and poor coping strategies. But eventually Drew begins to start chipping away at her walls and getting her to slowly open up.
Both have been broken and in desperate places. Both have closed themselves off and tried to hide. She especially is a runner, and he also has been avoiding making a big decision. She doesn't like him pushing, but at the same time secretly likes he cares. They make each other feel alive. They challenge each other. He encourages her to unlock her secrets and wants to help her heal. She's not used to anyone really caring that much or wanting to be with her.
They both are flawed and fighting demons. But is it easier to fight with a partner?
This is not a quick or easy process. Her issues are harder to deal with. But gradually Drew begins to get in there and help her believe and trust. He just wants to help her deal with her past in more positive ways so she can move on, hopefully with him. It was interesting seeing these two who were totally not looking for love unexpectedly fall into such a connection and realize that maybe they could actually hope for something more out of life.
Drew was so sweet, patient, and protective of her. He was really her knight-in-slightly-dented-armor, but he was determined to break down her walls and keep her in his life.
Ravyn was fragile and plagued by guilt, loneliness, and unhappiness. But she had an inner strength and the potential to thrive with support and understanding.
They seemed opposite in some ways, but were alike in others. They had great chemistry and I loved seeing them become more attached. Even though they were a bit addicted to each other it was healthier in that they were also a support, sounding board, and cheerleader when needed.
I enjoyed this installment and liked this couple. It was told in dual points of view. Many of the series characters made appearances from previous stories and I enjoyed catching up with them. I really liked Ethan "Huggy Bear" Higgins and I am looking forward to his story in Rain Dance. And a new team mate was introduced near the end and it sounds like he might bring more drama the Thunderbirds way.
This was a story of finding love, hope, and healing when least expected. They had potential to fall deeper into distress if they could not be pulled out of their darkness. These two had challenges and struggles, but they weren't quite as debilitating when they had someone to lean on. They needed to not be afraid to fall or break, and to believe that someone would be there to catch them if they did.
I felt like Catherine Gayle took a very current and sensitive subject and spread light on it. She educated in a gentle way, but made her points. The dedication of this book touched my heart because I was equally inspired by the person she dedicated it to. I applaud her for taking on this subject and doing her part to increase awareness and show that it does not have to stop life and love.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
Drew Nash is already facing some challenges and the whole world is now privy to his secret. He has been struggling and in a dark place, but his friends and team mates are determined to kick his butt and get him back to living his life. His newest challenge is a woman in his support group. Her appearance is quite vibrant, but she would like to shrink into the background and keep people away. Ravyn Penn is in an even darker place and has more issues than Drew...and really has limited support.
They have a passionate encounter, but then she shuts him down. He chases, she resists, then lets herself get caught. But she is all about getting physical and not being emotional. She is guarded and depressed. She has secrets, guilt, shame, regret, and poor coping strategies. But eventually Drew begins to start chipping away at her walls and getting her to slowly open up.
Both have been broken and in desperate places. Both have closed themselves off and tried to hide. She especially is a runner, and he also has been avoiding making a big decision. She doesn't like him pushing, but at the same time secretly likes he cares. They make each other feel alive. They challenge each other. He encourages her to unlock her secrets and wants to help her heal. She's not used to anyone really caring that much or wanting to be with her.
They both are flawed and fighting demons. But is it easier to fight with a partner?
This is not a quick or easy process. Her issues are harder to deal with. But gradually Drew begins to get in there and help her believe and trust. He just wants to help her deal with her past in more positive ways so she can move on, hopefully with him. It was interesting seeing these two who were totally not looking for love unexpectedly fall into such a connection and realize that maybe they could actually hope for something more out of life.
Drew was so sweet, patient, and protective of her. He was really her knight-in-slightly-dented-armor, but he was determined to break down her walls and keep her in his life.
Ravyn was fragile and plagued by guilt, loneliness, and unhappiness. But she had an inner strength and the potential to thrive with support and understanding.
They seemed opposite in some ways, but were alike in others. They had great chemistry and I loved seeing them become more attached. Even though they were a bit addicted to each other it was healthier in that they were also a support, sounding board, and cheerleader when needed.
I enjoyed this installment and liked this couple. It was told in dual points of view. Many of the series characters made appearances from previous stories and I enjoyed catching up with them. I really liked Ethan "Huggy Bear" Higgins and I am looking forward to his story in Rain Dance. And a new team mate was introduced near the end and it sounds like he might bring more drama the Thunderbirds way.
This was a story of finding love, hope, and healing when least expected. They had potential to fall deeper into distress if they could not be pulled out of their darkness. These two had challenges and struggles, but they weren't quite as debilitating when they had someone to lean on. They needed to not be afraid to fall or break, and to believe that someone would be there to catch them if they did.
I felt like Catherine Gayle took a very current and sensitive subject and spread light on it. She educated in a gentle way, but made her points. The dedication of this book touched my heart because I was equally inspired by the person she dedicated it to. I applaud her for taking on this subject and doing her part to increase awareness and show that it does not have to stop life and love.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
December 31, 2016
It is actually quite refreshing to read about guys who are perfectly masculine without being alpha male jerk and doesn't feel that being sensitive is emasculating in anyway. Drew is not scared of emotional attachments, he doesn't say BS like "I don't do love" even though he was the one who has been hurt in the past. That's what I love most about this miniseries, it may be romance and light read but unlike mills and boon the male characters have personalities not egos and female characters also have backbones and both characters are sensitive and it's not just "oh he's a jerk, but I love him and he loves me so I forgive him" scenario. I'm glad I gave these books a try.
October 31, 2016
I found Catherine Gayle through her Portland Storm series and fell in love with her hockey playing "family". I have followed her over to the Tulsa Thunderbirds and I need to say, Catherine, you amaze me each time a new book comes out. This is a book about hockey but your writing has evolved so much. I appreciate your social commentary. I cheer for your underdogs. And I enjoy meeting all of the new faces you allow us to meet.
If you follow this series, you know that something MAJOR happened with Drew. After his accident, the whole world now knows he is HIV positive. This book take a poignant look at what it means to be thrown in the spotlight when all you want to do is curl up and make the world go away.
Drew meets Ravyn as part of his friends imposed healing process. Neither wants to be where they are in life. Together, they may be able to be friends, or maybe more. Regardless, they have common ground and can support each other in the process. The message of the story is about acceptance and being true to who we are even if others don't want to see the real you.
So happy to get to read the words of this author. Take a leap. You can read this as a stand alone but you will enjoy it more if you have read the first few books.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
If you follow this series, you know that something MAJOR happened with Drew. After his accident, the whole world now knows he is HIV positive. This book take a poignant look at what it means to be thrown in the spotlight when all you want to do is curl up and make the world go away.
Drew meets Ravyn as part of his friends imposed healing process. Neither wants to be where they are in life. Together, they may be able to be friends, or maybe more. Regardless, they have common ground and can support each other in the process. The message of the story is about acceptance and being true to who we are even if others don't want to see the real you.
So happy to get to read the words of this author. Take a leap. You can read this as a stand alone but you will enjoy it more if you have read the first few books.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
November 11, 2016
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I will be honest, when I read the description of the book I was not sure I was going to like it. But I went ahead and read it because Catherine Gayle has never let me down. She did not let me down this time either.
This is the fourth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series. If you read Ghost Dance you know it ended with a bit of a cliff hanger when after an accident on the ice Andrew "Drew" Nash admits that he is HIV positive. He spends the off season deciding if he should continue to play or just retire. His team members and the WAGS all support him and finally get him to agree to go into a support group.
At the support group he meets Ravyn Penn, with her purple hair in dreadlocks, her tattoos and piercings she is the complete opposite of Drew. Ravyn is not in a good place in her life,she is stuck in the past. She has had a rough life and not much of a support system.
Drew and Ravyn meet at the the support group and somehow end up back at Drew's house and they quickly fall into bed together. Slowly Ravyn comes to trust Drew and lets him in on her secrets that haunt her. Ravyn with the help of Drew, his team mates, some of the WAGs and a dog starts to realize that she does deserve to be happy.
This book was a wonderful surprise for me, it was also a really emotional book. I recommend all of Catherine Gayles books!
I will be honest, when I read the description of the book I was not sure I was going to like it. But I went ahead and read it because Catherine Gayle has never let me down. She did not let me down this time either.
This is the fourth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series. If you read Ghost Dance you know it ended with a bit of a cliff hanger when after an accident on the ice Andrew "Drew" Nash admits that he is HIV positive. He spends the off season deciding if he should continue to play or just retire. His team members and the WAGS all support him and finally get him to agree to go into a support group.
At the support group he meets Ravyn Penn, with her purple hair in dreadlocks, her tattoos and piercings she is the complete opposite of Drew. Ravyn is not in a good place in her life,she is stuck in the past. She has had a rough life and not much of a support system.
Drew and Ravyn meet at the the support group and somehow end up back at Drew's house and they quickly fall into bed together. Slowly Ravyn comes to trust Drew and lets him in on her secrets that haunt her. Ravyn with the help of Drew, his team mates, some of the WAGs and a dog starts to realize that she does deserve to be happy.
This book was a wonderful surprise for me, it was also a really emotional book. I recommend all of Catherine Gayles books!
November 10, 2016
Wow. This book was SOOOO much more than expected. Knowing the story of Drew's past kind of left you feeling awestruck. Getting to read about his life and how he is doing with everyone knowing about his HIV status had left him feeling stagnant in regards to how he will deal with continuing to play hockey.
Then we meet Ravyn. She's sad and scared, living a lonely life and dealing with multiple issues of her own. Drew is drawn to her, knowing she is going through the beginnings of realization of her own, he knows he can help her. But it's truly more than that. They have a connection that is unbeatable but she's too rigid to allow those feelings to evolve, until Drew keeps pushing.
This book opened my eyes to many different things about HIV that I didn't know. Its allusion is automatically a death sentence, but truly it's what you make of it in your life. This is what Drew has done, and is leading Ravyn to realize the same thing.
I absolutely adored these two. It was great to see a heroine that was gradually learning from her mistakes, and a hero that was willing to fight for what he wanted. So worth the read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced reader copy of this book.
Then we meet Ravyn. She's sad and scared, living a lonely life and dealing with multiple issues of her own. Drew is drawn to her, knowing she is going through the beginnings of realization of her own, he knows he can help her. But it's truly more than that. They have a connection that is unbeatable but she's too rigid to allow those feelings to evolve, until Drew keeps pushing.
This book opened my eyes to many different things about HIV that I didn't know. Its allusion is automatically a death sentence, but truly it's what you make of it in your life. This is what Drew has done, and is leading Ravyn to realize the same thing.
I absolutely adored these two. It was great to see a heroine that was gradually learning from her mistakes, and a hero that was willing to fight for what he wanted. So worth the read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced reader copy of this book.
March 17, 2017
Drew Nash, right wing for the T Birds, was left with a cliff hanger from book 3 (Ghost Dance). I waited patiently for this book, the first book that Catherine Gayle left such a cliff hanger in. I have to say worth the wait. Drew is a very private person and his reasoning for being so private are revealed through out the book. He isn't the dark one though. Rayvn is the character you will want to adopt. It's no wonder she is the one that truly draws Drew out and makes him see the light. Through her struggles and life challenges he realizes life is worth the time and effort you give it. People are worth it if they are right for you. Must read. It can be a stand alone but you won't want it to be. You will want to know all the characters that are mentioned. Catherine has a way with her writing for you to see what your reading as a movie in your head. I love all her sports Romance books and keep them on Pre order as they become available. She knows her characters and she relates them to true life situations.
October 26, 2016
Just like all of her books, this one is brilliant. I don't have HIV, so I can't relate to that specifically, but it doesn't matter because I can relate to the loss, the betrayal, the guilt, and the fear felt by these characters. I can also relate to the hope in the face of major adversity, and the struggles that come with beginning the process of moving on from pain.
I'd been waiting months for this book, ever since I finished the last Tulsa Thunderbirds book, and it was SO worth it. Getting to know Drew and Ravyn was a beautiful process that was difficult at times, because their pain was so visceral, but worth every tear. I also LOVED the fact that lots of previous Thunderbird characters came out to play - it's nice to keep up with everyone's stories over time.
Well done, as always! I received an ARC for this review. :)
I'd been waiting months for this book, ever since I finished the last Tulsa Thunderbirds book, and it was SO worth it. Getting to know Drew and Ravyn was a beautiful process that was difficult at times, because their pain was so visceral, but worth every tear. I also LOVED the fact that lots of previous Thunderbird characters came out to play - it's nice to keep up with everyone's stories over time.
Well done, as always! I received an ARC for this review. :)
October 27, 2016
Omfg hold on for dear life because this book will take your emotions and mess with them but it was beautiful!!!
Drew is an NHL player for the Tulsa Thunderbirds and he also is HIV-positive so he has to decide if he's going to keep playing or not. Everyone knows about Drew's HIV status however they don't know that he got it from his cheating now ex-wife and some people believe that he's gay.
Ravyn is HIV-positive a parting gift from her druggie ex boyfriend and she's not dealing very well.
Drew and Ravyn meet at a Aids meeting and they really hit it off! They spend time getting to know each other better and help each other deal with things.
Should Drew play hockey? Can Ravyn share her past with Drew and move on?
** I had a really hard time figuring out what to say without giving anything away but still leave something good **
Drew is an NHL player for the Tulsa Thunderbirds and he also is HIV-positive so he has to decide if he's going to keep playing or not. Everyone knows about Drew's HIV status however they don't know that he got it from his cheating now ex-wife and some people believe that he's gay.
Ravyn is HIV-positive a parting gift from her druggie ex boyfriend and she's not dealing very well.
Drew and Ravyn meet at a Aids meeting and they really hit it off! They spend time getting to know each other better and help each other deal with things.
Should Drew play hockey? Can Ravyn share her past with Drew and move on?
** I had a really hard time figuring out what to say without giving anything away but still leave something good **
June 24, 2017
Andrew Nash had his secrets exposed and now he needed to make decisions about his hockey career. While at a therapy group session he sees Ravyn and she looks scared and like she wants to bolt. Nash goes over to see if he can get her to relax enough to stay and keeps trying and has no idea why.
After the meeting the end up back at his place with a attraction they can't explain. When Nash takes her back to her car they wonder what is going on and realize London is in labor. Nash gets her to the hospital and Ravyn takes her wheel chair in her truck . They get it back together but Ravyn refuses to go inside. Nash knows Ravyn has HIV but has no idea why she is so afraid and won't let him get to close I love that all of the players are getting there story and it's all a family they care about each other and back each other up.
After the meeting the end up back at his place with a attraction they can't explain. When Nash takes her back to her car they wonder what is going on and realize London is in labor. Nash gets her to the hospital and Ravyn takes her wheel chair in her truck . They get it back together but Ravyn refuses to go inside. Nash knows Ravyn has HIV but has no idea why she is so afraid and won't let him get to close I love that all of the players are getting there story and it's all a family they care about each other and back each other up.
November 16, 2016
Once again, Ms Catherine Gayle has written a book not only focused on romance and hockey (two of my favourite types of books) but a story that delivers hope, knowledge and real life issues.
Rites of Passage is the fourth instalment in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series, Catherine Gayle's second hockey series, an offshoot to her ever-popular Portland Storm books. We meet with Drew, one of the hockey players in the team, and Ravyn, tattoo and artist extraordinaire. Both at rock bottom, both seriously attracted to one another, yet are they looking for love and romance at this current time of their lives?
Ms Gayle brings her passion for hockey and the NHL to light, enticing readers to the finer points of the game, in a way that is interesting and enhances the storyline. I love reading about the team, other players and the life of hockey players. Add in romance, strong female characters and a well-written, provocative storyline and here you have Rites of Passage!
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. I have, however purchased Rites of Passage as well as I am such a fan of this series
Rites of Passage is the fourth instalment in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series, Catherine Gayle's second hockey series, an offshoot to her ever-popular Portland Storm books. We meet with Drew, one of the hockey players in the team, and Ravyn, tattoo and artist extraordinaire. Both at rock bottom, both seriously attracted to one another, yet are they looking for love and romance at this current time of their lives?
Ms Gayle brings her passion for hockey and the NHL to light, enticing readers to the finer points of the game, in a way that is interesting and enhances the storyline. I love reading about the team, other players and the life of hockey players. Add in romance, strong female characters and a well-written, provocative storyline and here you have Rites of Passage!
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. I have, however purchased Rites of Passage as well as I am such a fan of this series
November 3, 2016
I was so anxious to get my hands on this book because of the way Ghost Dance ended. I literally had goosebumps and couldn't relax for quite some time with worry for Drew & Zee. Rites of Passage didn't disappoint. The story of Drew and Ravyn really brought to life the struggles one can face in life even when you try your hardest to live a good and honest life. It continues to make me happy that Catherine Gayle keeps the support system of the hockey family in her stories because that is what people need to get through the extremely difficult times in life. I couldn't help but be impressed with how Drew fought through the depression of his HIV diagnosis and how he used it to be there in support for Ravyn. I love that London continues to be such a strong and intuitive personality because everyone needs a London Nazareneko in their life. Depression for whatever the circumstance can be so crippling, both emotionally and physically, that we often just choose to isolate ourselves. We all need that someone like London who refuses to let anyone live their life that way. Ravyn's story was so heart wrenching at times that I found myself needing to take a break. It is amazing that she was even able to live any kind of life with all that she went through. Drew and Ravyn are two extremely loving and caring individuals that didn't deserve the hardships they have had to face in life but without those hardships wouldn't have become the amazing characters I fell in love with.
May 31, 2017
This book had a little bit of everything - depression, HIV, surrendering a newborn, cutting and even a little hockey. Drew is debating whether to return to his hockey team after taking a skate to the throat last season. While the accident almost killed him, he was mostly concerned for his teammate Zee who tried to stop the bleeding not knowing that Drew was HIV positive. While attending an HIV support group, he meets Ravyn a dreadlock wearing tatted up mess. Besides having HIV, she had given up a baby to a safe sanctuary and to punish herself she was cutting.
Two opposites going through the same things bring them together for some quick sex but the longer they are together the more they grow together.
This was a great story of a person using his experience with pain and depression to help another person go through her own experience and come out the other side.
Two opposites going through the same things bring them together for some quick sex but the longer they are together the more they grow together.
This was a great story of a person using his experience with pain and depression to help another person go through her own experience and come out the other side.
January 6, 2022
This handled some pretty heavy topics in a very thought provoking way. Both of our characters are connected, but at a different place in dealing with their traumas. They compliment each other well though, with being able to give and support without making the situation all about them. You just couldn’t help but want to give Ravyn a hug, let her know you were there for her and wouldn’t leave her. Drew was wonderfully patient and consistent with her, even while he still dealt with his own lingering issues and questions. She didn’t just take though, she gave to him the quiet and reflection time he needed. It wasn’t all heavy though, they had fun, they had heat, they hung out with their friends. It was at the pace that worked for them, and they never bemoaned it when the realities of their situations changed their plans. I really like the characters and loved how their story unfolded <3
November 18, 2016
Wow!!! Another wonderful story by Catherine Gayle. The depth of the subject matter in her books just keeps getting stronger with each new book. The drama of facing life as a damaged person & meeting someone else who's just as damaged if not more was truly heartbreaking for Drew. Not only the lengths that Ravyn went to, to keep her guard up but also the deep fear that she'd never feel again showed Drew that he wasn't the only one fighting a battle inside. Drew's life was turned upside down by his now ex wife & possibly ended his career too. Now he's fighting for Ravyn to show her that there is something still to fight for. Definitely Recommend!!!!!
January 28, 2019
Words can't express
I love all of Ms Gayle's Atorm and Tbird series. This book however is special to me. I wish I could have read it 30 yeara ago.
Some may not like the deep issues dealt with in the Tbirds stories - fiction romance and all - but it is nice when someone can write a good romance but incorporate real world issues in a way that does not minimize or trivialize the subject matter while trying to put out a romance foe the masses.
Thank you Ms Gayle.
I love all of Ms Gayle's Atorm and Tbird series. This book however is special to me. I wish I could have read it 30 yeara ago.
Some may not like the deep issues dealt with in the Tbirds stories - fiction romance and all - but it is nice when someone can write a good romance but incorporate real world issues in a way that does not minimize or trivialize the subject matter while trying to put out a romance foe the masses.
Thank you Ms Gayle.
May 21, 2017
I'm finally getting the sense that the T-Birds are coming together as a team! This is fantastic, and I love watching them grow and learn, especially through their romantic struggles.
Now, where's another Drew with the big, soulful brown eyes where you need him?
Now, where's another Drew with the big, soulful brown eyes where you need him?
August 20, 2017
Could not put this book down.
I wanted to read this book so bad and you totally this not this appoint.
Drew and Ravyn are break your heart and heal it together characters.
I love this series can't wait for Ethan's book.
I wanted to read this book so bad and you totally this not this appoint.
Drew and Ravyn are break your heart and heal it together characters.
I love this series can't wait for Ethan's book.
October 23, 2017
I would have liked to see her go through a couple of therapy sessions in order to get a better understanding of her healing. It took away from the story that she just lists what she'll do and then the next time we see her, she's done it already and is doing emotionally better.
August 1, 2017
Love all of Gayle's characters. She draws you in and leaves you wanting more.
October 4, 2017
Ok, but too soap opera-ish for me.
March 17, 2018
Drew And Ravyn’s story is a difficult one. And she’s truly a sad character. It was such a tough story told so beautifully. I loved it
May 7, 2019
This book is really slow... I had a really hard time getting into the story line... there just seemed to be a lot of unnecessary stuff.
September 24, 2019
TISSUE Alert. Please tell me these two get a baby. I cried with Ravyn every time she did.
November 19, 2016
Wow!
What a very sensitive topic for a book....and a topic that has been widely overlooked too! I had a hard time at first because she was so down on herself...very negative tone in the beginning, but before I knew it the book had turned around and I didn't want to put it down. The author continues to put out wonderful reads! Highly recommended!
What a very sensitive topic for a book....and a topic that has been widely overlooked too! I had a hard time at first because she was so down on herself...very negative tone in the beginning, but before I knew it the book had turned around and I didn't want to put it down. The author continues to put out wonderful reads! Highly recommended!
November 9, 2016
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author for an honest review.
Rites of Passage is Catherine Gayle’s fourth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds Series. This was a much anticipated book, since the readers got to know Andrew “Drew” Nash’s most deepest, darkest and well-hidden secret during a freak accident on ice which almost got him killed. This book finds Drew in a bad place; he has divorced his cheating wife with whom he had been in a relationship since childhood. It was due to her that he contracted HIV.
After the expansion which brought him in the T-birds, it had been hinted that he was being groomed to take over captaincy of the team from Zee, the current captain. However, Drew feels he cannot face the perceived negative reactions of fans, team mates and opponents if he returns on the ice and had been toying with retiring. Thanks to London, the other WAGs and some of his team mates, they manage to push and prod Drew to attend therapy in a support group, where he meets Ravyn Penn.
Pale, gorgeous and colourful Ravyn appealed to Drew. She was totally opposite his type with lavender dreadlocks, tattoos, piercings but a haunted look in her blue eyes. Ravyn has huge secrets of her own but is not ready to reveal them to anyone and so is stuck in the past. Due to this, Drew tries to help her out during the first session but they end up in bed for some hot sex which starts chipping and breaking at the barriers Ravyn has set up to distance herself from any form of relationship or emotional entanglement.
Through a series of events perpetrated by Drew’s team mates, their children and a dog, Ravyn starts to realize that even she is entitled to some happiness despite the guilt she still carries within her.
For me, this book is a turning-point for the T-birds. The team seems to be finally unifying and there are good foundations for the family-like feelings found in the Portland Storm series with the players standing up for their future captain and the coaches and trainers putting their minds to find a way for Drew to do what he knows – play hockey – as safe as possible.
Ms. Gayle cleverly brings together two opposite characters coming from different social backgrounds in a way that is real, binding them together by the traumatic and emotional negative experiences they had in their lives. Also, as usual, Ms. Gayle gives us enough hints for the following book to keep us hooked for more. Highly recommended!
Rites of Passage is Catherine Gayle’s fourth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds Series. This was a much anticipated book, since the readers got to know Andrew “Drew” Nash’s most deepest, darkest and well-hidden secret during a freak accident on ice which almost got him killed. This book finds Drew in a bad place; he has divorced his cheating wife with whom he had been in a relationship since childhood. It was due to her that he contracted HIV.
After the expansion which brought him in the T-birds, it had been hinted that he was being groomed to take over captaincy of the team from Zee, the current captain. However, Drew feels he cannot face the perceived negative reactions of fans, team mates and opponents if he returns on the ice and had been toying with retiring. Thanks to London, the other WAGs and some of his team mates, they manage to push and prod Drew to attend therapy in a support group, where he meets Ravyn Penn.
Pale, gorgeous and colourful Ravyn appealed to Drew. She was totally opposite his type with lavender dreadlocks, tattoos, piercings but a haunted look in her blue eyes. Ravyn has huge secrets of her own but is not ready to reveal them to anyone and so is stuck in the past. Due to this, Drew tries to help her out during the first session but they end up in bed for some hot sex which starts chipping and breaking at the barriers Ravyn has set up to distance herself from any form of relationship or emotional entanglement.
Through a series of events perpetrated by Drew’s team mates, their children and a dog, Ravyn starts to realize that even she is entitled to some happiness despite the guilt she still carries within her.
For me, this book is a turning-point for the T-birds. The team seems to be finally unifying and there are good foundations for the family-like feelings found in the Portland Storm series with the players standing up for their future captain and the coaches and trainers putting their minds to find a way for Drew to do what he knows – play hockey – as safe as possible.
Ms. Gayle cleverly brings together two opposite characters coming from different social backgrounds in a way that is real, binding them together by the traumatic and emotional negative experiences they had in their lives. Also, as usual, Ms. Gayle gives us enough hints for the following book to keep us hooked for more. Highly recommended!
October 26, 2016
Catherine Gayle never will let you down. I always know when I start reading one of her books that I need to make sure I set aside time to be drawn into the story. I’m not going to want to put it down or come back to it later. She consistently provides an excellent product and you won’t be let down. This tradition continues with Rites of Passage.
Here we find Drew and Ravyn, two broken souls that are searching to find a way in this world. Their story stays true to the Thunderbirds mold; a dark and gritty romance that deals with difficult and sometimes taboo subjects. I was drawn to this book from the Acknowledgements. Catherine writes of a time that is cemented in my memory. When the world was given a glimpse into the life of an AIDS patient via MTV’s The Real World. She sets the perfect tone for the book here, and in my opinion, it should not be overlooked.
We found out in a prior book in the series that Drew has tested positive for HIV. We really didn’t know more about his circumstances or his story, but it is all beautifully explained here. Ravyn is also facing difficult circumstances of her own, and together they work to find a way to live life, not just to survive.
“I knew it wouldn’t be perfectly sunny all the time. But at least I could see the light, and I knew there was more on the way.”
You will never be let down by Catherine’s writing. She will pull you into the story, make you care about the characters, and keep you wanting more with each story. You get to catch up with old friends and look forward to what might be coming down the road in the future. Rites of Passage has become one of my new favorites. Please take the time to read this book. It can be read as a standalone, but you would be missing out if you didn’t at least read the prior books in the Thunderbirds series. Even better, start with the Portland Storm books!
Again, this was a heartfelt novel about two pretty fantastic, yet damaged human beings. This book will get to you emotionally and mentally. It will just make you feel. Beautifully done!
** I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review ** However, I will be purchasing my own copy for my library in order to continue to support this author’s work.
Here we find Drew and Ravyn, two broken souls that are searching to find a way in this world. Their story stays true to the Thunderbirds mold; a dark and gritty romance that deals with difficult and sometimes taboo subjects. I was drawn to this book from the Acknowledgements. Catherine writes of a time that is cemented in my memory. When the world was given a glimpse into the life of an AIDS patient via MTV’s The Real World. She sets the perfect tone for the book here, and in my opinion, it should not be overlooked.
We found out in a prior book in the series that Drew has tested positive for HIV. We really didn’t know more about his circumstances or his story, but it is all beautifully explained here. Ravyn is also facing difficult circumstances of her own, and together they work to find a way to live life, not just to survive.
“I knew it wouldn’t be perfectly sunny all the time. But at least I could see the light, and I knew there was more on the way.”
You will never be let down by Catherine’s writing. She will pull you into the story, make you care about the characters, and keep you wanting more with each story. You get to catch up with old friends and look forward to what might be coming down the road in the future. Rites of Passage has become one of my new favorites. Please take the time to read this book. It can be read as a standalone, but you would be missing out if you didn’t at least read the prior books in the Thunderbirds series. Even better, start with the Portland Storm books!
Again, this was a heartfelt novel about two pretty fantastic, yet damaged human beings. This book will get to you emotionally and mentally. It will just make you feel. Beautifully done!
** I was provided a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review ** However, I will be purchasing my own copy for my library in order to continue to support this author’s work.
November 13, 2023
Re-read 2023
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I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I still remember how I felt when i read the epilogue of Ghost's story. I was sitting on my bed with my jaw dropped open thinking "how on earth did that happened?!!". Since that moment I couldn't wait to get my hands on Drew's story. And let me tell you, the wait was well worth it!
This is not a story for the weak of hearts. It is not for people who want to read a pretty story about perfect people living in their perfect life were everything works out just fine and without any struggles.
No - this is the story of two people who got infected with HIV by no fault of theirs. Who had the rug pulled right from under them and who needed to find a way to put the pieces of their life back together.
It's a beautiful story because it shows how fragile yet strong people can be. How sometime doing the right thing at the moment can cause a world of hurt, pain and guilt. How climbing back out of the despair of depression takes time and is very difficult.
I loved how Drew, even though he had been depressed for quite some time, fought his way back into life and how he fought for Ravyn. Could understand his hesistancy regarding his career and how it may affect his teammates. He became my favourite member of the Tulsa Thunderbirds right along with Dima. He is such a stand-up character.
Ravyn, oh Ravyn. While I don't know anyone personally who has HIV, at least I am not aware of anyone, I am well aquinted with people who suffer from depresssion. Throughout the book I cried with her, wanted to hug her and just take away her guilt and pain. The decision she had to make is one I hope I never have to face. It is such a difficult situation. I really could feel her pain through the pages - it was heartrecking. But I am proud of her, because ultimatively I think she made the right decision.
I know I say it time and time again, but Catherine Gayle gets better and better with each book she writes. I'm looking forward to the next story, which will be Huggy Bear's book. Which will, I am sure, be just as emotional and real as this one.
-------------------------------
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I still remember how I felt when i read the epilogue of Ghost's story. I was sitting on my bed with my jaw dropped open thinking "how on earth did that happened?!!". Since that moment I couldn't wait to get my hands on Drew's story. And let me tell you, the wait was well worth it!
This is not a story for the weak of hearts. It is not for people who want to read a pretty story about perfect people living in their perfect life were everything works out just fine and without any struggles.
No - this is the story of two people who got infected with HIV by no fault of theirs. Who had the rug pulled right from under them and who needed to find a way to put the pieces of their life back together.
It's a beautiful story because it shows how fragile yet strong people can be. How sometime doing the right thing at the moment can cause a world of hurt, pain and guilt. How climbing back out of the despair of depression takes time and is very difficult.
I loved how Drew, even though he had been depressed for quite some time, fought his way back into life and how he fought for Ravyn. Could understand his hesistancy regarding his career and how it may affect his teammates. He became my favourite member of the Tulsa Thunderbirds right along with Dima. He is such a stand-up character.
Ravyn, oh Ravyn. While I don't know anyone personally who has HIV, at least I am not aware of anyone, I am well aquinted with people who suffer from depresssion. Throughout the book I cried with her, wanted to hug her and just take away her guilt and pain. The decision she had to make is one I hope I never have to face. It is such a difficult situation. I really could feel her pain through the pages - it was heartrecking. But I am proud of her, because ultimatively I think she made the right decision.
I know I say it time and time again, but Catherine Gayle gets better and better with each book she writes. I'm looking forward to the next story, which will be Huggy Bear's book. Which will, I am sure, be just as emotional and real as this one.
November 13, 2016
Catherine Gayle’s Rites of Passage is an intense, moving, funny, sexy story about two seemingly lost people who find each other, and in so doing, find a way to keep going. Drew Nash is captain-in-waiting of the Tulsa Thunderbirds Hockey team, and Ravyn Penn is a tattoo artist in Tulsa. Both of them are HIV positive, and both are struggling with their diagnosis and what it means for them. Drew is not sure whether or not he should continue to play professional hockey after his HIV status was made public when he was injured on the ice. Ravyn is trying to find a way to continue living after a series of difficult events, including but not limited to her HIV diagnosis. They meet one another in an HIV support group and initially connect only for sex—but they discover that they have a connection that goes beyond the physical and beyond their shared HIV status . Rites of Passage is both complicated and beautiful; in typical Catherine Gayle fashion, Big Issues are addressed as part of real people’s lives, not as easily resolved or forgotten plot points. HIV is not the only Big Issue here, but everything here is presented naturally and sensitively, and resolved in a way that is satisfying without being too simple or too trite. Drew and Ravyn are wonderful characters, as are the other members of Drew’s team, some of whom were featured in previous series, and some of whom are new. Catherine Gayle does a phenomenal job of creating a community of people who care for one another and also make their ways into readers’ hearts. If you are already a Tulsa Thunderbirds reader, you will be thrilled to catch glimpses of Hunter, Tallie, Razor, and Tori, as well as slightly more in-depth appearances from Dima and London. If you’re not yet a fan, there is a whole group of characters waiting within the pages of this book, and you will come to feel like treasured friends.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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